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Berlin and the Green Lake District 8-day Premium Bike & Barge Tour (CdS)
On this premium bike tour, you’ll explore Berlin and its iconic landmarks such the remnants of the Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie as well as the historic Brandenburg Gate.
In a week filled with contrasts, this trip offers a combination of bustling city life in one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals with the quiet and peaceful countryside that lies beyond. In the morning, you’ll cycle along the green riverbanks of centuries-old waterways, vast forests, and charming towns. Then, the afternoons are yours to comfortably relax on board the Clair de Soleil as she gently cruises down the Spree. Rivers, lakes, and canals have shaped local’s lives here for centuries. It won’t be long before you see why Germans refer to this area as das blaue Paradies, or “blue paradise.”
Along the way, you’ll encounter traces of the complex history of the region. The route takes you from stately palaces and beautiful parks in Potsdam to more solemn memorial sites such as the Sachsenhausen concentration camp and the villa where the Wannsee Conference, the meeting that set the Holocaust in motion, took place.
Centuries of history will emerge on your route, including the Sanssouci Palace, built by the most famous Prussian king, Frederick the Great, the Asisi Panorama art installation about the Berlin Wall, and the modern Reichstag Building with its stunning glass dome. As one of the most important cities of post-war Europe, Berlin is a true highlight on this cycling and boating vacation. With its unique blend of history and modern city life, the city serves as both the starting point and the destination of this German adventure.
The daily bike tours are led by a multilingual guide, and each day can be tailored to your individual needs. On many days, you can choose between a shorter or longer bike route, depending on your mood and desired challenge. Your tour guide is an expert in this route and will help you make an informed decision about which choice is best for you. Would you prefer to cycle independently and at your own pace? Then you’re welcome to complete the routes on your own using our detailed cycling map and the handy Ride with GPS app.
The Clair de Soleil features 14 guest cabins located on the lower deck. Each cabin measures approximately 113 sq. ft. (10.5 m²) and is equipped with two twin beds (35 x 79 in / 90 x 200 cm). All cabins feature a private bathroom with a shower, toilet, and sink, as well as individually controlled air conditioning and heating, a ventilation system, a hair dryer, and a safety deposit box. Each cabin also includes a wardrobe and shelving for clothing storage, along with a window that can be opened for fresh air. The Clair de Soleil features 14 guest cabins located on the lower deck. Each cabin measures approximately 113 sq. ft. (10.5 m²) and is equipped with two twin beds (35 x 79 in / 90 x 200 cm). All cabins feature a private bathroom with a shower, toilet, and sink, as well as individually controlled air conditioning and heating, a ventilation system, a hair dryer, and a safety deposit box. Each cabin also includes a wardrobe and shelving for clothing storage, along with a window that can be opened for fresh air.
Slow Tours offers a range of Tours in Germany
Welcome Aboard – Berlin
Your journey begins in the bustling heart of Berlin, not far from the government district. You can check in on board at 4:00 p.m. After settling into your cabin, you’ll meet the captain, crew, and your tour guide during a welcome gathering. In the evening, enjoy your first group dinner on board. After your meal, a short walk around the area offers you first impressions of Berlin.
A journey through history along the Spree Berlin – Oranienburg 35km or 48km
While you’re enjoying a delicious breakfast, the ship departs and follows the peaceful Spree River out of the capital. You’ll pass through urban riverside landscapes and gradually leave the hustle and bustle of Berlin behind to discover the quieter natural areas surrounding the metropolis. Once the ship has docked and your bike has been adjusted, you’re ready to explore. Your first bike ride begins along the water and through expansive parks toward the town of Oranienburg.
The afternoon is dedicated to German history: you’ll visit the Sachsenhausen Memorial, a place of remembrance and reflection located in Oranienburg. The former concentration camp, later a Soviet internment camp, remains a powerful reminder of one of the darkest chapters of the twentieth century".
Lakes, forests, and memorials: Oranienburg – Potsdam 35km or 45km
As you enjoy breakfast on board, the Clair de Soleil sets course southward. Today’s bike route begins shortly thereafter, allowing you to experience the beauty of the state of Brandenburg and the distinctive system of lakes, canals, and forests that have given the “Blue Paradise” its name. Along the way, you’ll make a brief stop at Villa Marlier. Once the site of the Wannsee Conference, the villa now serves as an important memorial to the Holocaust. In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Potsdam.
Palaces and Parks of Potsdam 30km
Today’s focus is on Potsdam, a historic city full of beautiful parks, sprawling gardens, and impressive palaces, where for centuries, Prussian kings and later German emperors spent their summers. The bike ride takes you past Potsdam’s most beautiful sights and through the heart of the city where the splendor of these bygone eras can be felt at every turn. Famous for its expansive terraced gardens, today includes a visit to the elegant Sanssouci Palace, the summer residence of Frederick the Great. The evening is yours to enjoy as you wish, and dinner is on your own. Take this opportunity to explore Potsdam’s restaurant scene—perhaps by visiting one of the Kartoffelhäuser, traditional potato restaurants for which the region is known.
Einstein, Werder, and the Havel: Potsdam – Brandenburg an der Havel 40km or 55km
Your bike tour begins this morning in the wooded countryside around Potsdam. Along the way, there’s a short stop at the idyllically situated summer home of one of Brandenburg’s most famous residents, Albert Einstein. After a lovely morning of cycling along the lakes and a short ferry ride, you’ll reach the charming island town of Werder around noon. This historic town, once a fishing village and later known for its fruit and wine production, is the perfect spot for a break by the waters of the Havel River. In the afternoon, the ship will be waiting for you further downstream in Ketzin for a leisurely cruise to Brandenburg an der Havel. In the evening, you’ll explore this city on a guided walking tour and learn more about its eventful history.
Through water-rich Brandenburg: Brandenburg an der Havel – Berlin-Spandau 38km or 50km
Today’s journey is characterized by Brandenburg’s unique water-rich landscape, with its countless lakes, canals, and riverside walking trails. After a picnic lunch, you’ll find the ship waiting for you in Ketzin. As the Clair de Soleil sails to Berlin, you’ll have one last chance to enjoy the passing scenery from the water’s peaceful surface. In the afternoon, enjoy your arrival in Berlin-Spandau, often called “Little Venice” because of its many waterways and bridges. A leisurely stroll through this historic neighborhood with its winding cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses provides a charming end to the day.
Berlin’s Past and Present 25km
The last full day of your cycling and cruising vacation is dedicated to the German capital, where history goes hand in hand with modern city life. Those who wish can explore Berlin at their own pace, as many attractions are easily accessible thanks to the excellent S-Bahn connections. Alternatively, your tour guide will accompany you on a final group bike tour past some of Berlin’s most renowned landmarks. Enjoy your journey past the Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie, the former border between East and West Berlin. You’ll cycle past the government district with the Federal Chancellery as well as the Brandenburg Gate, where Ronald Reagan famously called on Gorbachev to “tear down this wall!” In the evening, your trip concludes with a memorable captain’s dinner aboard the Clair de Soleil.
Farewell in the capital: Berlin
At 9:30 a.m., you'll start your journey home filled with memories of a city that has confronted its history with honesty, and of a region where past and present exist side by side. More than anything, you'll have experienced life in one of the cultural capitals of Europe.
Tours marked with are special prices.
| Start | End | Max. No. Guests | Accommodation | Price p.p. | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 14 2027 | May 21 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 3,215€ | ||
| Double rooms | 2,139€ | |||||
| May 21 2027 | May 28 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 3,215€ | ||
| Double rooms | 2,139€ | |||||
| May 28 2027 | Jun 04 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 3,215€ | ||
| Double rooms | 2,139€ | |||||
| Jun 04 2027 | Jun 11 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 3,215€ | ||
| Double rooms | 2,139€ | |||||
| Jun 11 2027 | Jun 18 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 3,215€ | ||
| Double rooms | 2,139€ | |||||
| Jun 18 2027 | Jun 25 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 3,215€ | ||
| Double rooms | 2,139€ | |||||
| Jun 25 2027 | Jul 02 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 3,215€ | ||
| Double rooms | 2,139€ | |||||
| Jul 02 2027 | Jul 09 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 3,215€ | ||
| Double rooms | 2,139€ | |||||
| Jul 09 2027 | Jul 16 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 2,915€ | ||
| Double rooms | 1,939€ | |||||
| Aug 13 2027 | Aug 20 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 2,915€ | ||
| Double rooms | 1,939€ | |||||
| Sep 03 2027 | Sep 10 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 3,215€ | ||
| Double rooms | 2,139€ | |||||
| Oct 08 2027 | Oct 15 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 3,215€ | ||
| Double rooms | 2,139€ | |||||
| Oct 15 2027 | Oct 22 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 2,915€ | ||
| Double rooms | 1,939€ | |||||
| Oct 22 2027 | Oct 29 2027 | 28 | Single rooms | 2,705€ | ||
| Double rooms | 1,799€ |
If you would like to drive yourself before or after your tour, ask us for a quote on any brand new Renault, Peugeot or Citroen vehicle for driving in Europe.
Pick up your vehicle from most capital cities in Europe and return it to your drop off destination. Top insurance cover. Email [email protected] for a competitive quote
Wander the World Without Worry
Local language barriers. Lost passport. Unexpected medical expenses. Sometimes, our trips don’t go as planned. That’s why Slow Tours Pty Ltd wants you to have the most robust travel advisory and protection for your vacation.
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