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Frankfurt – Stuttgart or Stuttgart – Frankfurt

Three Rivers Tour along the Neckar, Rhine & Main

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 2
Difficulty level 2
Duration of the tour.
time
8 days
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

The Neckar Valley Cycle Route runs almost entirely without climbs, stretching 370 km (230 mi.) from the Neckar’s source in the Schwenninger Moos to the city of Mannheim, known for its grid layout. On this Boat & Bike tour, you’ll experience the navigable part of the Neckar—always with your floating hotel close at hand! Your journey begins in the vibrant metropolis of Frankfurt am Main. The constant interplay of nature and culture, of past and present, with quiet villages and lively cities, makes your vacation along the Neckar especially varied […]

From €1199 p.p.

Cycling along 3 Rivers

Vineyards and Castles

Breathtaking landscapes

Ship with max. 96 passengers

 

Monday to Friday
Amsterdam: 08:30 to 22:00
New York: 6:00AM to 7:00PM
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Frankfurt – Stuttgart or Stuttgart – Frankfurt

About this tour

The Neckar Valley Cycle Route runs almost entirely without climbs, stretching 370 km (230 mi.) from the Neckar’s source in the Schwenninger Moos to the city of Mannheim, known for its grid layout. On this Boat & Bike tour, you’ll experience the navigable part of the Neckar—always with your floating hotel close at hand!

Your journey begins in the vibrant metropolis of Frankfurt am Main. The constant interplay of nature and culture, of past and present, with quiet villages and lively cities, makes your vacation along the Neckar especially varied and rich in contrasts. Wide river meadows, narrow valleys, vineyards, castles, palaces, and historic town centers await you as you cycle through the heart of Baden-Württemberg.

The ship: Your floating hotel
In between bike rides, you’ll cruise along with the ship, which travels to a new destination every day. You’ll 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’d like. There are rental bikes on board, but you can also bring your own if you mention it when you book (on request).

Perfect for more experienced cyclists
With a detailed map of the area and a suggested route for close-range explorations, you’ll decide where to go and how fast to ride. Each evening, the ship’s crew will go over the next day’s cycling route, pointing out the difficult parts, offering tips about the best places to stop for a drink or lunch, as well as the sightseeing highlights. In case of emergencies or problems, the crew can be contacted. But – as the ship is sailing to the next port – they can only offer assistance by phone.

Day to day program Frankfurt - Stuttgart

Day 1: Frankfurt/Main – Embarkation | Frankfurt – Nierstein

Embarkation starts at 4:00 p.m in Frankfurt/Main. At 6:00 p.m., it’s time to cast off! Enjoy your first dinner on board and get to know your fellow passengers, as the ship takes you from the Main into the Rhine. Your vessel will moor overnight in the idyllic town of Nierstein.

Day 2: Nierstein – Mannheim (approx. 60 km/37.2 mi.)

With almost 1,000 hectares (almost 4 square miles) of vineyards, Nierstein is the largest wine-growing community along the Rhine. Start your day with a visit to the historic town center, featuring a medieval marketplace and the estates of the nobility. Then cycle along the Rhine, heading first to the imperial city of Worms.

Later, the scenic path across Friesenheimer Island in the Rhine River offers a striking contrast to the industrial Rhine River BASF factory that you’ll see on the opposite bank.

A few kilometers further on, you’ll reach the confluence of the Neckar and Rhine rivers near Mannheim, where your ship will be waiting. If you still have some energy, take a detour through the “City of Squares” to its impressive Baroque palace.

Day 3: Mannheim – Heidelberg (approx. 26 km/16 mi.)

Today, follow the scenic Neckar River by bike all the way to Heidelberg. The Roman town of Ladenburg, with its charming historic center, is well worth a short stop along the way. From a distance you’ll be able to spot the ruins of Heidelberg Castle towering above the old town. Stroll across the famous sandstone bridge or wander through the narrow alleys and picturesque squares of Heidelberg’s historic center.

Day 4: Heidelberg – Eberbach (approx. 34 km/21 mi.)

Today you’ll cycle via Ziegelhausen and through the Odenwald hills to Neckarsteinach. From there, continue on to Hirschhorn and finally to today’s destination: the medieval town of Eberbach, once a self-ruling city of the Holy Roman Empire. A stroll through its narrow alleys and small squares offers a chance to soak up the cheerful atmosphere of this charming old town.

Day 5: Eberbach – Bad Wimpfen (approx. 45 km/28 mi.)

Today’s destination, Bad Wimpfen, is a fairytale-like medieval town that served as a residence for Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa in 1182. Before arriving, you might take a detour to Hornberg Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in the Neckar Valley. After 1259, it became a fief of the Bishops of Speyer and later, in the 16th century, the home of Götz von Berlichingen.

Day 6: Bad Wimpfen – Lauffen (approx. 30 km/18.6 mi.) | Lauffen – Stuttgart / Bad Cannstatt

Today you’ll enjoy a relaxed and delightful ride along the Neckar, following well-developed cycle paths through gentle river valleys, past vineyards and idyllic wine villages. Along the way, it’s well worth stopping in one of the small wine towns, known for their rustic taverns and welcoming local inns. Your destination is Lauffen am Neckar, the hometown of the famous poet Friedrich Hölderlin and a true beauty of the region. The charming old town, with its timber-framed houses and rich wine tradition, invites you to linger. A route full of nature, culture, and indulgence: perfect for a laid-back cycling day in the heart of the Neckar Valley. Later, you’ll cruise on the ship from Lauffen to the city of Stuttgart.

Day 7: Stuttgart / Bad Cannstatt, Day of rest

Today is all about Baden-Württemberg’s capital, Stuttgart. Discover the city’s diverse surroundings, from idyllic vineyards and green parks to charming suburbs. If you’re up for a workout, tackle the heights of the Stuttgart basin and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the city, the Rems Valley, or the Swabian Alb: a region of forests, hills and valleys.

Whether you prefer a leisurely ride along the Neckar or a more athletic route through the vineyards, a cycling tour around Stuttgart offers something for everyone and shows the city at its green, indulgent best. If you’d rather skip the bike, you can explore Stuttgart and its surroundings on a guided walking tour instead (optional). Must-sees include Schlossplatz – the vibrant heart of the city – the Königsstraße, and the Staatsgalerie. Tech enthusiasts will enjoy the Mercedes-Benz Museum or the Porsche Museum (not included).

Day 8: Departure from Stuttgart / Bad Cannstatt

Disembarkation by 9:00 a.m. and individual journey home.

Good to know
  • Cycle routes: The daily bike rides are non-guided, independent tours. You’ll ride on your own with the help of a detailed cycling map and printed route notes, available on board. The on-board tour manager will provide you with all necessary tour information during the daily briefings. The on-board tour manager doesn’t cycle the day’s route, but can always be reached via cell phone.
  • Profile: The recommended routes stay mostly on well-developed long-distance cycle paths along flat river landscapes, with paved or finely-graveled surfaces. The route also includes some quiet country roads. There are some gentle hills and occasional climbs, making this tour ideal for active travelers who enjoy both exercise and comfort.
  • Excursions (optional): We offer a small excursion program, that can be booked directly on board via the cruise director only. You’ll receive a brief description together with your travel documents. Depending on the number of participants, some excursions might be carried out in two languages: German and English.
  • Luggage: We recommend that you bring rainwear, a bike helmet, a sun hat and sneakers.
  • Schedule and program changes: We reserve the right to make changes in routing and itinerary. In case of flood or low water, the shipping company reserves the right to bridge parts of the routes using buses. In extreme situations, the shipping company reserves the right to cancel the journey at short notice. No legal right shall be constituted in these situations. The same applies for officially-ordered, last-minute repair work on locks or bridges.
  • Note: Please be aware that a cruise ship is not only your hotel but also a machine, using the engine’s power night and day. In particular, the ship’s passage through locks and bridges – and the preparation work beforehand – may cause noise. If you are sensitive, please bring your own ear plugs.
  • Digital travel documents and roadmaps: In the interest of sustainability and climate protection, please choose our digital route book instead of printed travel documents. The GUIBO app is your constant companion during your trip. A glance at your smartphone is enough to keep you safe and worry-free, with all the important information at hand. Travel information, ship and contact details and your bike tours are available digitally in the route book, which is available offline and thus accessible at any time. The app is available for free and works on all standard smartphones. You will automatically receive the information you need to access and download your booked trip via email before your journey begins.
  • Travel documents: EU-citizens (without special situations like dual citizenship, main residence abroad or a limited-validity passport) are required to have a valid passport or ID-card, not expiring within six (6) months of the return of your cruise. We kindly ask non-EU citizens, EU-nationals with multiple citizenship or anybody with special legal entry requirements to visit the country, to find out about visa and entry documents at the relevant embassy ahead of time.
  • We recommend that you take out travel health insurance with repatriation coverage, as well as baggage, accident and travel cancellation insurances.
  • This tour is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.

Day to day program Stuttgart - Frankfurt

Day 1: Stuttgart / Bad Cannstatt – Embarkation, | Stuttgart / Bad Cannstatt – Lauffen

Individual arrival in Bad Cannstatt, near Stuttgart. Embarkation at 3:00 p.m. At 5:00 p.m., it’s time to cast off! Enjoy your first dinner cruise and meet your fellow travelers as the ship makes its way from Bad Cannstatt to Lauffen am Neckar, the hometown of the famous poet Friedrich Hölderlin and a wine town rich in tradition.

Day 2: Lauffen – Bad Wimpfen (approx. 30 km/18.6 mi.)

Ease into your boating and biking week with a gentle and relaxed start. Spend the morning exploring this traditional winegrowing town on foot. Then enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Neckar river on well-maintained cycle paths through gentle river valleys, past vineyards and picturesque wine villages. Along the way, it’s well worth stopping in one of the small wine towns, known for their rustic taverns and welcoming local inns.

Day 3: Bad Wimpfen – Eberbach (approx. 45 km/28 mi.)

After breakfast, cycle to the beautiful town of Eberbach, once a self-ruling city of the Holy Roman Empire. Historic buildings, a picturesque old town, and imposing city walls give this place – where tradition and customs live alongside modern life – a unique charm.

If you’re up for it, you might take some time to hike a section of the Neckarsteig trail up Katzenbuckel mountain (approx. 6 km or 4 mi one way, with an elevation gain of around 650 m or 2130 ft). Or simply enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Neckar promenade.

Day 4: Eberbach – Heidelberg (approx. 34 km/21 mi.)

Today’s route takes you through the Odenwald hills via Hirschhorn and Neckarsteinach, all the way to Heidelberg. From afar, you’ll be able to see the ruins of Heidelberg Castle towering above the old town. Stroll across the famous sandstone bridge or wander through the narrow alleys and dreamy squares of the historic center. Tip: After a short walk uphill, enjoy the stunning view from the Scheffel Terrace overlooking Heidelberg Castle and the valley below.

Day 5: Heidelberg – Worms (approx. 50 km/31 mi.)

Today, the Roman town of Ladenburg with its historic old center awaits you on your route along the beautiful Neckar River towards Worms. Take the opportunity for a short detour before passing through Mannheim, the “City of Squares,” where the Neckar and Rhine rivers meet. Along today’s ride, industry and natural beauty alternate, offering plenty of variety.
In Worms, where the ship awaits, history is vivid and ever-present. Worms is the legendary city of the Nibelungen, a medieval German epic poem. There’s a lot to discover here.

Day 6: Worms – Nierstein (approx. 37 km/23 mi.) | Nierstein – Mainz

You’ll now follow the Rhine Cycle Route directly along the river to Nierstein. With nearly 1,000 hectares (almost 4 square miles) of vineyards, Nierstein is the largest wine-growing community on the Rhine. Take some time to explore the historic town center with its medieval marketplace and estates of the nobility. If time allows, why not enjoy a small wine-tasting as a perfect way to round off this delightful day of cycling? In the early evening, your ship will depart from Nierstein and, as you enjoy your dinner, take you to Mainz.

Day 7: Mainz / Frankfurt/Main (approx. 45 km/28 mi.)

Last but not least, you’ll reach the third river of your Three-rivers tour today. Starting where the Rhine meets the Main, you’ll follow the Main Cycle Route through the Schwanheimer Düne nature reserve and eventually arrive in the financial metropolis of Frankfurt. Frankfurt is a city where warmth meets openness, where tradition and modernity coexist, and where every street and riverside have its own story to tell. It’s a melting pot of cultures, flavors, and innovation. You’re invited to discover much more than just its impressive skyline.

Day 8: Departure from Frankfurt/Main

Disembarkation by 9:00 a.m. and individual journey home.


Prices & availability

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Prices & information

Included in this tour
  • 8 days/7 nights
  • Outside cabin with private facilities in the booked cabin category
  • 7 x breakfast
  • 6x lunch snack on board (non-cyclists) or lunch package for cycle tours
  • 6x coffee or tea in the afternoon
  • 7 x 3-course dinner
  • Welcome drink
  • Use of bed linen and towels
  • 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 via cell phone)
  • Digital travel documents via GUIBO-App incl. GPS tracks for cycle routes
  • The CO2 emissions from this trip will be offset through Trees for All and plastic recycler Orca
Excluded from this tour
  • Drinks
  • Coffee and tea on board after 4 p.m.
  • Bicycle rental or e-bike rental incl. pannier bag
  • Helmet
  • Personal insurances
  • Gratuities (at your discretion)
  • Entrance fees and excursions
  • City maps
  • Fees for ferries
  • Transfers to/from the docking place
  • Shuttles
  • 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
  • High-quality 28 inch unisex bike from Velo de Ville with 7-gears. The bikes have freewheel or backpedal brakes (please indicate your preference upon booking), rental bike insurance and pannier bags.
  • The e-bikes with a low step and a fully-integrated battery pack from Bosch are also from Velo de Ville. The 8-speed Nexus hub circuit, a Bosch medium motor and a big 500-W battery pack will bring you up to 100 km (62 mi) per loading cycle. The e-bikes have freewheel or backpedal brakes (please indicate your preference upon booking), rental bike insurance and pannier bags.
  • Bringing your own bicycle/e-bikes: by request only, due to lack of space on the sun deck. Only e-bikes with removable battery pack are permitted. 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 - 2026

2026:

  • Rental bicycle: €99 per week (bike with freewheel OR backpedal brake, please indicate by booking)
  • Rental E-Bike: €219 per week (only on request, e-bike with freewheel OR backpedal brake, please indicate by booking, limited number available)
  • Bring your own bike/E-Bike: €49 per week (on request only, limited number)
  • Bike helmet: We recommend to wear a bike helmet. Please bring your own bike helmet. Onboard selling (limited quantities; brand: UVEX I-VO): €45 a piece.

 

Car park options:

  • Frankfurt: details will follow
  • Stuttgart: details will follow

 

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 GmbH, Bremerhaven, Germany.

Loyalty discount

Explore our Loyalty Discount!

After your tour, you’ll receive an exclusive discount code:

  • You get 3% on your second tour with us.
  • From the third tour onwards, you will receive a 5% discount.
  • Enjoy savings on any of our upcoming trips.

 

Check your post-tour email for details. You can combine this discount with other promotions for additional savings. Join us again for another adventure by boat and bike!

Discover more

From the Rhine and Moselle to the Main and Saar, you’ll cycle through fairytale towns, medieval fortresses and rolling hills while enjoying authentic German hospitality. Savor world-class wines and hearty beer gardens along the way, and discover more tours in Germany.



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Available ships for this tour

Cycling cruise ship Casanova Germany

Stylish and elegant interior

Comfortable outside cabins

Castle-like panorama saloon

Spacious sun deck with sun loungers

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

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Frankfurt – Stuttgart or Stuttgart – Frankfurt

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