Neckar: Tübingen - Heidelberg

Your cycling tour along the Neckar Valley Bike Trail begins in the historic university town of Tübingen. Hohentübingen Castle towers high above the beautifully preserved Old Town, offering stunning views of the city and the Neckar Valley. Stroll through winding alleys, past magnificent half-timbered houses and lively squares. Here, the Neckar already reveals itself as a stately river and will accompany you on the upcoming cycling stages.

You’ll leave the bustling city life behind and soon find yourself cycling through quieter countryside, passing several lakes perfect for swimming, which invite you to take a refreshing break on warm days. You’ll then follow the Neckar River downstream through the valley to Plochingen, where the striking Hundertwasser Tower adds a unique architectural touch. The route continues to Esslingen, whose historic old town survived World War II virtually unscathed. Half-timbered houses, winding alleys, and medieval buildings continue to give the city an exceptionally authentic charm to this day.

First, you’ll arrive in Stuttgart, the vibrant capital of Baden-Württemberg. Take the opportunity to take a leisurely break and explore some of the city’s most famous sights - such as the impressive Mercedes-Benz Museum or the historic Old Palace in the heart of downtown. You’ll then continue your bike tour, following the Neckar River on to Ludwigsburg. There, the magnificent Residenzschloss - one of Germany’s most significant Baroque palaces - awaits you, surrounded by expansive gardens.

You’ll return to the Neckar River and follow its gentle meanders through a charming landscape of vineyards and small wine-growing villages. In Lauffen, it’s worth taking a leisurely break—perhaps with a glass of the famous “Katzenbeißer,” one of the region’s traditional wines. Afterward, you’ll cycle on to Heilbronn, an important center of Württemberg’s viticulture and wine trade. You’ll continue your journey along the romantic Burgenstraße and eventually reach Heilbronn or the nearby town of Neckarsulm.

In Neckarsulm, be sure to visit the NSU Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the history of vehicles through its extensive collection of historic motorcycles and automobiles. Afterward, cycle through the Neckar Valley, passing numerous castles and palaces, including the impressive Hornberg Castle, which was once associated with the knight Götz von Berlichingen. A special destination is Bad Wimpfen, with its superbly preserved old town, striking towers, charming bay windows, and historic half-timbered houses. The route continues through the varied river landscape to Mosbach, which also delights visitors with its picturesque half-timbered architecture. Depending on where you’re staying, your stage ends here, or you can follow the Neckar even further to the historic Staufer town of Eberbach.

Now the Neckar River winds its way through the densely forested landscape of the Odenwald, marking the border between Hesse and Baden-Württemberg in places. Today’s destination is the historic university city of Heidelberg, which, with its historic old town and famous castle ruins, ranks among Germany’s best-known cities. A visit to Heidelberg Castle is especially worthwhile: from the complex high above the Neckar, a magnificent view opens up over the city’s rooftops, the river, and the surrounding hills.

Unfortunately, your cycling tour along the Neckar ends after breakfast. Would you like to stay longer because Heidelberg has so much to offer? No problem - we’d be happy to book an extra night for you.