Blog: Deutschland Tour - cycling event in Germany

Paved cycle path winding through green vineyard rows in the Palatinate region, with stone retaining walls and trees under a cloudy sky.

Two cyclists with helmets riding on paved path along Neckar River, surrounded by lush green trees and grass with people relaxing by water.

Pink baroque buildings with domed towers and arched openings in Schwetzingen Castle Park. Manicured lawn in foreground, dense forest backdrop.

Speyer Cathedral facade with twin green-domed towers and Romanesque architecture. Visitors walk across the square with historic buildings on both sides.

Five Days, Five Stages Pure Passion for Cycling

Opening in Hesse and the First Stage to Schwäbisch Hall

The race begins in the spa town of Bad Orb. The opening stage is a short but demanding loop through the town, setting the scene for an exciting start to the 2026 Deutschland Tour.

Stage two presents the first real test, covering 216 kilometres and around 3,000 metres of climbing. The route briefly passes through Bavaria, crosses the Main River, and finishes in the historic town of Schwäbisch Hall.

Stone bridge crossing the Main River in Kitzingen with historic town buildings and church towers visible along the waterfront under blue sky.

Main: classic

8 Days

Aerial view of Wertheim showing the medieval castle ruins on a hilltop overlooking the historic old town with red-tiled roofs along the river.

Main: Active in the spessart

6 Days

Green bicycle parked beside colorful wildflower meadow in Karlstadt. Historic church tower and stone wall visible in background with trees.

From the Neckar to the German Wine Route

The race continues through the heart of Baden-Württemberg. Covering nearly 200 kilometres and around 2,000 metres of climbing, this varied stage first follows the scenic Neckar River before becoming flatter along the Rhine. The route then leads into the renowned wine-growing region of the German Wine Route in the Palatinate.

Three cyclists on paved path along Neckar River in Neckargemünd with church spire, historic buildings and forested hills in background.

Neckar: source - Heidelberg

9 Days

Kilian Church in Heilbronn with Gothic architecture and red roof. Bronze sculptures and fountain in foreground plaza with visitors walking around.

Neckar: Tübingen - Heidelberg

7 Days

Large green lawn in Neckar Park Heidelberg surrounded by mature trees with forested hills in the background under a clear blue sky.

Through the Palatinate Forest

The toughest challenge of the tour awaits between Herxheim and Bad Dürkheim. Over 169 kilometres, the riders will tackle around 3,000 metres of climbing. Demanding ascents through the Palatinate Forest alternate with breathtaking views across the surrounding vineyards, creating a stage that is sure to test even the strongest contenders.

Cyclist riding through Speyer's historic market square with traditional buildings, church tower, decorative maypole, and outdoor café seating.

Palatinate wine route and Rhine bike trail

8 Days

Rows of green grapevines in the Palatinate region stretching across rolling hills under a blue sky with white clouds.

Palatinate: radial tour

7 Days

Dark purple wine grapes hanging from vine with green leaves in Palatinate vineyard, showing ripe clusters ready for harvest.

Final Showdown Around Heilbronn

The tour concludes with a 156-kilometre circuit around Heilbronn. Featuring around 2,500 metres of climbing and numerous short but steep ascents, the final stage is set to keep the battle for the Blue Jersey alive right to the finish.

Traditional Black Forest farmhouse with dark wooden walls, decorative balcony with flowers, and steep slate roof surrounded by green meadows.

Black Forest: round trip from Freiburg

7 Days

Kilian Church in Heilbronn with Gothic architecture, red tile roofs and tall bell tower. Large fountain with sculptures in foreground on plaza.

Our conclusion

Whether it’s gruelling mountain stages, fast-paced flat sections, or thrilling sprint finishes, the 2026 Deutschland Tour promises world-class cycling from start to finish. And if you enjoy exploring on two wheels yourself, many of the regions along the route offer fantastic cycling opportunities. Perhaps the Deutschland Tour will inspire your next cycling holiday!