Our Favourite Bike Trips in Berlin

Carolin Weinkopf ©

One thing we always warn our guests when they head out into the city is “watch out for the bikes!” It can sometimes be all-too-easy to stray into the bike lane, and Berliners will certainly give you a ring of the bell if you do. But although Berliners like to grumble about the cycling infrastructure in the city, this is a pretty good place to explore on two wheels. There aren’t many hills, there are plenty of bike paths and waymarked routes, and loads of bike shops around if you ever get a puncture.

Here at The Circus we have a range of bike rental options – including one of those electric cargo bikes that are perfect for families with little ones too short to reach the pedals. Ask us at reception for our different options.

TIERGARTEN

Berlin’s answer to Central Park, the Tiergarten is a vast, green oasis in the heart of the city with nice wide paths to explore by bike. You’ll pass through patches of woodland, lush green meadows, historical monuments and even a beer garden. Not exactly the Tour de France, but if you fancy escaping the busy streets of the city and finding a nice spot for a picnic, you can’t do much better.

TEMPELHOFER FELD

This was Berlin’s original airport, and now the landing strips and taxiways are part of one of the largest open spaces in the world and are perfect for cyclists of all abilities. You’ll see kids from the neighbourhood having their first experience on two wheels as well as the local MAMIL training for the next triathlon, and for a city one of the joys is that you can ride uninterrupted… no traffic lights here!

MAUERWEG

The Mauerweg or Berlin Wall Trail was conceived as a cycling route, following the old patrol road of the border guards for 160 kilometres through the city centre and around its edge. If you ride the whole thing you will see many of the main sights of Berlin, as well as a variety of landscapes including forests, lakes and dunes. Along the way you’ll encounter historical markers and remnants of the Wall, making for a reflective journey through Berlin’s divided past. But don’t forget… you don’t have to ride it all!

GRUNEWALD

Popular with road riders (who stick to the streets) and mountain bikers (who ride everything in between) the Grunewald Forest offers an extensive network of tarmac and trails through lush woods without ever leaving the city limits. Contrary to popular belief, there are some hills in Berlin and you’ll find them here… and if the workout leaves you hot and sticky, there are several lakes to stop for a refreshing break.

SPREE RIVER PATH

Mixing up urban scenery with natural beauty, the Spree River Path follows the river as it winds its way through Berlin and beyond, offering a unique perspective on the city. Along the way you’ll pass landmarks such as the Reichstag, Museum Island and the East Side Gallery, and being a riverside trail in the plains of northern Germany, the path is relatively flat and accessible for riders of all abilities. A great way to explore the city on two wheels.

POTSDAM AND HAVELLAND

Just a short trip outside Berlin (if you take the train you’ll also need a ticket for your bike!), the historic city of Potsdam and the surrounding Havelland region offer some lovely rides. Potsdam is dotted with palaces, parks, and historical sites, including the famous Sanssouci Palace. Into the Havelland region and you’ll discover serene countryside views, charming villages, and tranquil lakes. This area is perfect for a day trip, combining scenic beauty with cultural exploration. The well-paved roads and dedicated bike paths make it a comfortable ride for all skill levels. It is possible to rent bikes at Potsdam train station and start from there.

For the more adventurous, the outdoor app Komoot has put together a collection of user-created cycling routes in the city (more than 4700 the last time we checked). You can explore it here.

Get On Your Bike!