View our latest offers and deals on our offers page! See all offers
Back to overview
Germany

Germany: Strasbourg – Mainz or Mainz – Strasbourg

Discover the beauty of the lower Rhine
Strasbourg One way tour. Possible in both directions. Mainz
From €1199 p.p.
Quickly jump to
Germany: Strasbourg – Mainz or Mainz – Strasbourg

Highlights of this tour

What could be more natural than discovering the beauty of the Lower Rhine by bike? The Lower Rhine Region has one of the most beautiful and largest cycle route networks in Europe. Along high-quality routes, explore the marvelous landscape: this well-developed route leads past river landscape, meadows and fields and offers especially for lovers of nature  a relaxed possibility to explore the region. Labyrinths of rivers on the Rhine delta in the Netherlands, quaint little towns and vibrant major cities along the route offer a welcome change and  guarantee a […]

Beautiful cities of Speyer & Heidelberg

Quaint towns & vibrant cities en route

Marvelous views from quality bike routes

Ship with max. 96 passengers

Guidance
  • Guided cycling: A tour leader will guide you during the cycling days
  • Independent cycling: No tour leader, the ships’ crew does daily briefing, independent cycling
guidance Independent cycling
Difficulty
  • Level 1: easy tours, very flat terrain
  • Level 2: quite easy tours, mostly flat terrain
  • Level 3: requires a higher level of exertion, medium hilly terrain
  • Level 4: for experienced cyclists, hilly terrain with climbs
Difficulty level 1 Difficulty level 1
Duration of the tour.
tijd2 Created with Sketch.
8 days

About this tour

What could be more natural than discovering the beauty of the Lower Rhine by bike? The Lower Rhine Region has one of the most beautiful and largest cycle route networks in Europe. Along high-quality routes, explore the marvelous landscape: this well-developed route leads past river landscape, meadows and fields and offers especially for lovers of nature  a relaxed possibility to explore the region. Labyrinths of rivers on the Rhine delta in the Netherlands, quaint little towns and vibrant major cities along the route offer a welcome change and  guarantee a relaxed and eventful stay.

The Rhine Cycle Route provides fine views over the Rhine, which has often been immortalized in story and song, as well as over untouched riverside forests with rich varied fauna and flora. The cycle-road also leads through picturesque towns, villages and wine-growing areas. The region boasts a wealth of popular touristic destinations and cultural sites as well as of culinary specialities. You cannot miss a short detour to the Neckar River and to Heidelberg, a marvelous city steeped in history. Words are useless to describe the beautiful landscape, the unique cultural sites and the regional delicacies: you simply have to experience them yourself!

The quality of the cycle ways along the route is excellent. Most of the stretches are paved or asphalted, and lead alongside the Rhine dikes without any gradients of note. This makes the trip suitable even for unpracticed cyclist.

The ship – Your sailing hotel
In between cycling excursions, you cruise along with the ship, which travels to a new destination every day. You dine, sleep and eat breakfast on board. You’ll receive a packed lunch every day, and you can usually choose between a longer or shorter bike ride. It’s also possible to spend a day on board if you like. There are rental bikes on board, but you can also bring your own if you mention it when booking.

Prepare yourself for this tour with our Travel Prep-tips

Preparation is half the fun, so why not start straight away?
See all tips

Day to day program Strasbourg to Mainz

Parts that are printed in italics will be covered by the ship.

All distances are “approximate distances” of recommended bike tours.
Alterations of schedule or programme:  Subject to change. If a route cannot be shipped as a result of low or high water or bad weather, the captain reserves the right to change the route in view of your safety (this will not be accepted as a reason for free withdrawal).

Day 1: Strasbourg

Individual arrival at Strasbourg and embarkation at 4 p.m. There may be time to explore the capital of the Alsace with its many canals.

Day 2: Strasbourg  – Gambsheim lock (approx. 18 km/10.8 mi.)| Gambsheim lock – Germersheim

After breakfast you can take advantage of the opportunity to visit the Alsatian capital of Strasbourg with its many canals, the cathedral of Strasbourg or visit the picturesque tannery district with his historic half-timbered house. Enjoy a piece of French joie de vivre before you start your first cycling tour. You will cycle directly along the Rhine through the quiet Rhine plain to the Gambsheim lock, where the boat awaits you again for the further journey to Germersheim. Use the time on deck or in the salon and talk about the first impressions of this tour with your fellow passengers over a good glass of wine.

Day 3: Germersheim – Speyer (approx. 22 km/13.2 mi.)

Today’s bike tour takes you along the arms of the Old Rhine through seemingly untouched nature. However, you can first look forward to visit the old fortified town of Germersheim with its many picturesque lanes, corners and squares. Further through the Palatinate region you will reach the cathedral city of Speyer. The cathedral in Speyer has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981.

Day 4: Speyer – Mannheim (28 km/16.8 mi.)

Enjoy a short cycle ride alongside the Old Rhine, past marvelous lakes, through untouched protected areas designated as National Nature Reserves and natural flood plains. You reach Mannheim, also called the “City of Squares” due to its layout in a grid-pattern. In these squares, countless places are well worth visiting as for example the famous Mannheim Baroque Palace – German largest Baroque palace complex and the water tower – the city’s landmark.

Day 5: Mannheim – Heidelberg – Mannheim (52 km/31.2 mi.)

Today the tour leads through the core of the Electoral Palatinate and thus partly along the Castle Road. Schwetzingen Castle and its castle garden are only two reasons to visit the charming town of Schwetzingen. From here, the route continues via Plankstadt and Eppelheim to Heidelberg. Already visible from afar, the castle ruin of Heidelberg Castle towers over the Old Town. Admire the famous Heidelberg red sandstone bridge or stroll through meandering lanes and see the picturesque squares in the Old Town. The further way leads you on the other side of the Neckar over the Römerstadt Ladenburg back to Mannheim.

Day 6: Mannheim – Worms (26 km/15.6mi.)

Today you leave Mannheim and cycle past meadows and fields, following the course of the river Rein until you reach the imperial city of Worms. On your journey through two millenniums of the city’s history, learn about emperors and kings, myths and legends of the Nibelung, Judaism and Martin Luther.

Day 7: Worms – Nierstein | Nierstein – Mainz (17-20 km/10.2-12.7 mi.)

Enjoy the morning cruise from Worms to Nierstein. With almost 1,000 Hectare of viticultural area, Nierstein is home to the largest wine-growing community on the Rhine. The historic Old Town with its medieval market square and noble houses is also well worth visiting. A short stretch that leaves plenty of time for one to indulge oneself: cycle on the Rhine Cycle Route on well-paved cycle ways directly alongside the Rhine from Nierstein to Mainz. Guests, who would like to cycle a longer stretch, can also choose to start the cycle tour already in Worms. (cycle tour Worms-Mainz approx. 60 km/37.5 mi.).

Day 8: Mainz

After breakfast disembarkation until 9 a.m. Individual journey home.

Good to know
  • Cycling route distances in the travel program are approximate.
  • On some days you can choose between a longer and a shorter cycling route. Please note that on the shorter routes you may not be able to visit all the highlights mentioned.
  • If you prefer not to cycle on a particular day, you’re welcome to stay on board and relax while the ship cruises to the next landing place.
  • The tour itinerary and route are subject to possible changes due to nautical, technical or meteorological reasons, or other unforeseen events.
  • On the arrival day, you can leave your luggage on board the ship from 11.00 am.
  • Detailed cycling maps, route tips and a GPS app are available for guests who wish to cycle individually and at their own pace. The tour guide is always available via cell phone in case of questions, breakdowns or emergencies.

Day to day program Mainz to Strasbourg

Parts that are printed in italics will be covered by the ship.

All distances are “approximate distances” of recommended bike tours.
Alterations of schedule or programme:  Subject to change. If a route cannot be shipped as a result of low or high water or bad weather, the captain reserves the right to change the route in view of your safety (this will not be accepted as a reason for free withdrawal).

Parts that are printed in italics will be covered by the ship.

All distances are “approximate distances” of recommended bike tours.
Alterations of schedule or programme:  Subject to change. If a route cannot be shipped as a result of low or high water or bad weather, the captain reserves the right to change the route in view of your safety (this will not be accepted as a reason for free withdrawal).

Day 1: Mainz

Individual arrival to Mainz. Embarkation at 4 p.m.. There may be time to explore the capital of Rhineland-Palatinate with its lovingly restored half-timbered houses and the Romanesque Cathedral of Saint Martin. 

Day 2: Mainz – Nierstein (17-26 km/10.2-15.6 mi.) | Nierstein – Worms

A short cycle leg and plenty of time for one to indulge oneself: Cycle on the Rhine Cycle Route with its well-paved cycle ways directly alongside the Rhine to Nierstein. With almost 1,000 Hectare of viticulture area, Nierstein is home to the largest wine-growing community on the Rhine. Visit the historic Old Town with its medieval market square and the noble houses. In the afternoon, sail from Nierstein to Worms. Guests, who would like to cycle a longer stretch, can start the bike ride already in Mainz. (cycle tour Mainz-Worms approx. 60 km/37.5 mi.).

Day 3: Worms – Mannheim (26 km/15.6 mi.)

In the imperial city of Worms, you start your cycling tour today. You will enjoy cycling past extensive fields and meadows. The beautiful cycle path across the Friesenheim Island offers an impressive contrast to the opposite Rhine front of BASF. A few kilometers further on you will reach the place where the Neckar flows into the Rhine in Mannheim, where your ship is already waiting for you. Take advantage of the afternoon and go for a walk through the square town of Mannheim and to the baroque castle. Also the moated castle is worth a visit.

Day 4: Mannheim – Heidelberg – Mannheim (52 km/31.2 mi.)

Today, follow the course of the beautiful Neckar River as far as Heidelberg. The Roman town of Ladenburg with its historical old town is worth a little stopover. The castle ruins are visible from far away of the Heidelberg Castle over the old town. Stroll across the famous Heidelberg Sandstone Bridge or through winding alleys and dreamy squares of the old town. The way back leads you through the heart of the Electoral Palatinate and partly along the Castle Road to Schwetzingen Castle. Here in the castle garden it is worthwhile to linger for a short while before you immerse yourself again in the lively city life of Mannheim along the Rhine cycle path.

Day 5: Mannheim – Speyer (27 km/16.2 mi.)

Alongside the numerous oxbow lakes of the Old Rhine leads the way to today’s destination – the cathedral city of Speyer. Enjoy the short bike ride past marvelous lakes, through unspoiled nature, areas that are designated Natural Nature Reserves and natural flood plains. The Speyer Cathedral was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1981.

Day 6: Speyer – Germersheim, (approx. 22 km/13.2 mi.) | Germersheim – lock Gambsheim

By bike, continue your tour through the Palatinate region past oxbow lakes and untouched nature. Look forward to visiting the old fortified town of Germersheim with its numerous picturesque lanes, corners and squares. Enjoy the cruise to Gambsheim and review the experiences of the day with a glass of wine on deck or in the salon.

Day 7: Lock Gambsheim – Strasbourg (approx. 18 km/10.8 mi.)

On your last cycle stretch, cycle in an easy pace directly alongside the river through the gentle Rhine plain until you reach the capital of the Alsace, the city of Strasbourg with its countless canals. If you feel like it you have the possibility to stroll to the Strasbourg Minster, the landmark of the city, through the picturesque tanners’ quarter with its small historic half-timbered houses and enjoy a piece of French lust for life while the end of your journey approaches.

Day 8: Strasbourg 

After breakfast disembarkation until 9 a.m.. Individual journey home.

Good to know
  • Cycling route distances in the travel program are approximate.
  • On some days you can choose between a longer and a shorter cycling route. Please note that on the shorter routes you may not be able to visit all the highlights mentioned.
  • If you prefer not to cycle on a particular day, you’re welcome to stay on board and relax while the ship cruises to the next landing place.
  • The tour itinerary and route are subject to possible changes due to nautical, technical or meteorological reasons, or other unforeseen events.
  • On the arrival day, you can leave your luggage on board the ship from 11.00 am.
  • Detailed cycling maps, route tips and a GPS app are available for guests who wish to cycle individually and at their own pace. The tour guide is always available via cell phone in case of questions, breakdowns or emergencies.

Prices & availability

To view the availability of this tour and/or book online please click on the button below. A new screen will open.


Prices & information

Pricing overview - 2024
Cabin type For all dates
Twin cabin on lower deck 2 pers. € 1199 Twin cabin lower deck for single use 1 pers. € 1559 Twin cabin on upper deck astern* 2 pers. € 1349 Twin cabin on upper deck 2 pers. € 1399 Single cabin on upper deck 1 pers. € 1449 Twin cabin upper deck for single use 1 pers. € 1819
Included in this tour
  • 8 days/7 nights
  • Outside cabin with shower/WC and air conditioning
  • Program according to itinerary
  • 7 x breakfast
  • 6x light lunch on board (non cyclists) or packed lunch for cyclists
  • 6x afternoon coffee break
  • 7 x dinner
  • Captains greeting and Welcome drink
  • Use of bed linen and towels; change when required
  • Daily cleaning of the cabin
  • Daily briefings by multilingual (German/English) on board tour manager
  • Independent cycling tours (on board tour manager can be reached on his cell phone)
  • Tour guide on board (does not cycle with group)
  • Maps and information material for cycling tours (1 set per cabin)
  • GPX-tracks for the bike tours
Excluded in this tour
  • Drinks
  • Coffee and tea on board at other hours
  • Bicycle rental or E-bike rental incl. pannier bag
  • Helmet (not available on board)
  • Personal insurances
  • Gratuities (at your discretion)
  • Entrance fees and excursions
  • City maps
  • Fees for ferries
  • Transfers to/from the docking place
  • Parking fees
  • SGR Insolvency protection
SGR Insolvency protection (mandatory consumer contribution SGR insolvency protection guarantee scheme: € 5 per person - will be specified separately on the booking confirmation)
Bicycles/E-Bikes
  • Rental Bikes on Board: smooth-running 7-speed unisex tour bikes made by Velo de Ville (custom built) with hand- and back pedal brakes or freewheel (subject to availability, please indicate by booking) and equipped with pannier.
  • Electro Bikes with hand- and back pedal brakes or freewheel (subject to availability, please indicate by booking, limited number – early booking required).
    Please provide your body measurements upon booking.
  • To bring your own bike: on request only – due to lack of space on sundeck. We exclude any liability for loss, theft and damage – this also applies to damage caused by transportation from shore to ship or vice versa.
Additional options & information - 2024
  • Rental bicycle: €89 per week
  • Rental E-Bike: €199 per week (only on request, limited number available)
  • To bring your own bike/e-bike: €29 per week (on request only, limited number)
  • Bike helmet: We recommend to wear a bike helmet. Please bring your own bike helmet (no onboard selling)
  • Optional Excursions: We offer a small excursion program that can be booked directly on board at the cruise director only. You will get a brief description together with your travel documents. Depending on the number of participants some excursions could be carried out in 2 languages (German/ English)

 

Transfers:
There is a train connection between Mainz and Strasbourg. Duration between 2 hrs and 3 hrs depending on the connection.
Please visit one of the following websites for timetables, tickets or more information www.omio.com or www.trainline.com.

Minimum number of participants: 75 guests (must have been reached within 21 days prior to departure).

Partner tour:
Legal notice: Boat Bike Tours is not the organizing operator, but the travel agent for this tour; this is a so called ‘partner tour’, available on request. Tour operator is: SE Tours, Bremerhaven, Germany.


Photos

Previous Next

Reviews

based on 5 reviews on
6 Oct 2022

Rodney

Comfortable cabin on the MV Olympia, excellent food and very attentive crew. Only constructive suggestion would be to improve the route maps by adding distances or gps based apps and ensuring routes and ferries are operating.

Reply from Boat Bike Tours 14 Oct 2022

Thank you so much for such a nice review and for taking the time to write it. We are glad you enjoyed your trip so much and wish to see you again soon. Best Romy

6 Oct 2022

Dan Doern

Had a great time, food and service was Phenomenal

Reply from Boat Bike Tours 14 Oct 2022

We're happy you had a 5-star experience and thank you for sharing it. We hope to see you again in the future. Best Romy

20 Jun 2022

Yossi Barkan

Hi, Here are my main comments: 1. The rides were short and dull, a part from the Heidelberg day 2. Route information is poor, many of us lost our ways 3. Prices od consumptions on the boat were too high

Reply from Boat Bike Tours 23 Sep 2022

Hi Yossi, Thank you for your feedback and for bringing this to our attention. I’m so sorry to hear of your less than satisfactory experience during your tour on board of the Olympia and hope you will accept our sincerest apologies. Could you please let me know what specific issues you’ve encountered? I’d love to help where I can and pass along your suggestions to our team, but I need just a bit more information from you. I understand how disappointing it can be and not have it meet your expectations, so hopefully, we can get this sorted out. Please give us a call +31 20 72 35 400 or per e-mail to [email protected] with more information so that we can make things right for you. Warm regards, Romy

11 Jul 2019

Ollie

It was a very well run tour. The Food was excellent. The only two faults we could say was at the start of the Tour an explanation of how the bikes operated both Electric and ordinary bikes eg: the lock on the bikes, the braking systems, how the paniers fitted on. The daily maps could have approximate distances in Klms to landmarks rather than just sowing where to go. Maybe a bit more up to date music to cater for younger tour participants eg 70/80/90s music as well as older participants.


Available ships for this tour

Motor ship Olympia Germany, Netherlands

Deck chairs

Elegant interiors

TV in the cabins

Individually controlled air conditioning

max. 96 passengers
49 cabins
3 tours available with this ship

Related tours

Mainz One way tour. Possible in both directions. Cologne
Mainz - Cologne or Cologne - Mainz Upper Middle Rhine Valley

UNESCO Upper Middle Rhine Valley

Ideal for a beautiful, relaxing holiday

Home to many legends like the Loreley

Ship with max. 96 passengers

Duration of the tour.
tijd2 Created with Sketch. 8 days
4 stars
3 Reviews
Guidance
  • Guided cycling: A tour leader will guide you during the cycling days
  • Independent cycling: No tour leader, the ships’ crew does daily briefing, independent cycling
guidance Independent cycling
Difficulty
  • Level 1: easy tours, very flat terrain
  • Level 2: quite easy tours, mostly flat terrain
  • Level 3: requires a higher level of exertion, medium hilly terrain
  • Level 4: for experienced cyclists, hilly terrain with climbs
Difficulty level 1 Difficulty level 1
Koblenz One way tour. Possible in both directions. Merzig
Koblenz - Merzig or Merzig - Koblenz Fine Riesling wines and Roman history

Gentle cycling through vineyards

Roman history in Trier

Taste the region’s fine Riesling wines

Barges with max. 20 passengers

Duration of the tour.
tijd2 Created with Sketch. 8 days
5 stars
23 Reviews
Guidance
  • Guided cycling: A tour leader will guide you during the cycling days
  • Independent cycling: No tour leader, the ships’ crew does daily briefing, independent cycling
guidance Guided cycling
Difficulty
  • Level 1: easy tours, very flat terrain
  • Level 2: quite easy tours, mostly flat terrain
  • Level 3: requires a higher level of exertion, medium hilly terrain
  • Level 4: for experienced cyclists, hilly terrain with climbs
Difficulty level 1 Difficulty level 1

Your selected tour:

Germany: Strasbourg – Mainz or Mainz – Strasbourg

Request a quote

  • Please enter a number from 1 to 150.
  • Month (March until October) and year
  • Your data

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.