Self-Guided France and Germany Alsace Beer Bike Tour
This 8 day cycling journey through Alsace and neighboring Germany blends easy riding, rich history, and a deep love for beer. Starting and ending in Strasbourg, the route takes you along peaceful canals, riverside paths, forests, and storybook villages, with just enough hills to keep things interesting.
Each day brings a new highlight, from crossing the Rhine by ferry to exploring medieval towns like Wissembourg and relaxing cities such as Rastatt, Karlsruhe, and Saverne. Along the way, you visit local breweries, meet passionate brewers, and taste regional beers that reflect centuries of tradition.
Scenic stretches through the Northern Vosges and the Haguenau forest balance out the urban charm and cultural stops, including castles, abbeys, and historic hop halls. The tour wraps up with a visit to Villa Meteor, France’s oldest independent family brewery, making this trip a relaxed, flavorful way to experience Alsace by bike.
Self-Guided
casual hotels
Strasbourg
Strasbourg
easy to moderate
52 km / 32 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 12
Strasbourg Airport (SXB)
Strasbourg Airport (SXB)
Highlights

Scenic Cycling Across Borders
Ride from France into Germany and back again on quiet paths that follow rivers, canals and countryside lanes. The route feels relaxed with landscapes shifting from Rhine plains to wooded valleys and vineyard dotted hills.

Beer Culture and Brewery Visits
This tour is all about Alsace’s brewing heritage. Tour includes a beer tasting box with 3 selected craft beers. You’ll visit local breweries, including a stop at Villa Meteor,, France’s oldest independent family brewery.

Charming Towns and Historic Cities
From Strasbourg’s UNESCO listed old town to baroque Rastatt, medieval Wissembourg, and canal side Saverne, each stop adds character. Castles, abbeys, and half timbered villages keep the days varied and engaging.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Strasbourg | Le Grand Hôtel | |||
| DAY 2 | Rastatt | Hotel Schwert (4-Star) | B | 65 km / 40 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Ettlingen | Stadthotel Engel | B | 45 km / 28 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Wissembourg | Au Moulin de la Walk | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Haguenau | L'Europe Haguenau | B | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Saverne | Hotel Chez Jean | B | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Strasbourg | Hotel Origami (4-star) | B | 60 km / 37 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Strasbourg
Arrive in Strasbourg and make your way to your hotel in the city. After check-in, you have time to relax or start exploring on foot. Walk through the historic Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the impressive Gothic cathedral. The old town’s canals, half-timbered houses, and lively squares set the tone for the journey ahead.
Strasbourg is also known for its strong beer culture, so this is a great evening to visit a local brewery or traditional winstub.

Day 2: Rastatt
You begin cycling out of Strasbourg on well-marked bike paths toward the Rhine. The route is mostly flat and ideal for easing into the tour. In Drusenheim, you cross the Rhine by ferry and officially enter Germany. The landscape opens into wide river plains and peaceful countryside. As you approach Rastatt, baroque architecture replaces rural scenery.
After your first day in the saddle, you can relax in a beer garden or one of the city's microbreweries, savoring a locally brewed beer while observing the brewing vats. This is the perfect opportunity to discover German brewing specialties and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of Rastatt.


Day 3: Ettlingen
Before leaving Rastatt, you may choose to visit Rastatt Castle and its landscaped gardens. Today’s ride passes through small towns and agricultural landscapes. A highlight is the stop in Malsch at Hausbrauerei Alter Bahnhof, a brewery set inside a former railway station. Continuing toward Karlsruhe, the route blends urban sections with green corridors.
You finish the day near Ettlingen, known for its historic center and relaxed atmosphere.



Day 4: Wissembourg
Spend some time exploring Ettlingen or the charming Durlach district before setting off. The route then leads back into France along the Franco German cycle path. You ride through wooded stretches and open farmland in the Lauter Valley. The terrain remains mostly flat and comfortable. Arrival in the Wissembourg region brings medieval charm and quiet streets.
Upon your arrival in Wissembourg, make sure to visit the Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul Abbey, a magnificent Gothic building that reflects the town's religious significance in the Middle Ages. The Westercamp Museum, located in a former chapel, houses a diverse collection ranging from religious art to archaeological artifacts, offering a fascinating glimpse into local history.


Day 5: Haguenau
Today introduces gentle hills as you cycle through vineyards, orchards, and traditional Alsatian villages. You pass through Cleebourg, home to the northernmost vineyard in Alsace. Hunspach, with its flower-lined half-timbered houses, is a major highlight. A detour to the Schœnenbourg Maginot Line fort is possible for history lovers.
The ride continues through the vast Haguenau Forest, officially classified as a forest of exceptional quality. You arrive in Haguenau, where medieval heritage meets a lively town center.


Day 6: Saverne
Start the day with a visit to Brasserie d’Uberach, where you can book a guided tour and tasting. The route then moves through rolling countryside with slightly hilly sections. You cycle past quiet villages and farmland, ideal for a relaxed pace. A stop in Neuwiller allows you to admire its Romanesque abbey church.
Approaching Saverne, the Marne Rhine Canal comes into view. Saverne welcomes you with its historic old town and the impressive Château des Rohan.


Day 7: Strasbourg
Today’s ride is flat and easy, following the EuroVelo 5 route along the canal. The peaceful waterway and tree-lined paths make for a relaxing final cycling day. In Hochfelden, enjoy a visit to Villa Meteor, France’s oldest independent family-run brewery, with an exceptional brewery tour and tasting.
Continuing toward Strasbourg, the scenery gradually becomes more urban. You pass the European institutions district before reaching the city center. Celebrate the end of your cycling journey with a final evening in Strasbourg.


Day 8: Departure
After breakfast at your hotel, your cycling tour officially comes to an end. Depending on your travel plans, you may have time for a final walk through Strasbourg’s old town or a last visit to a café or bakery. Strasbourg’s excellent transport connections make departure easy, whether you are heading to the airport or continuing your journey by train.
Depart with memories of scenic cycling routes, historic towns, forest landscapes, and distinctive regional beers.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

Le Grand Hôtel

Hotel Schwert (4 Star)

Stadthotel Engel

Au Moulin de la Walk

Europe Haguenau

Hotel Chez Jean
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $630
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $250
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

KTM Macina Cross 720 or similar
Included in your trip price

Velo de Ville AEB 890 or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival and Departure
The tour begins and ends in Strasbourg, France, a city that is exceptionally well connected by high-speed rail.
The most convenient way is to fly to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport and take a direct train to Strasbourg.
Direct TGV trains run from inside the airport to Strasbourg
Travel time: ~2 hours
No need to enter Paris city
Frankfurt International Airport (FRA) is also very popular for long-haul arrivals. It has direct ICE/TGV train connections to Strasbourg
Travel time: ~2–2.5 hours
Zurich Airport (ZRH) is another smaller but efficient option.
Direct or 1-change trains
Travel time: ~2.5 hours
This option offers the best balance of flight availability, comfort, and simplicity, especially after a long-haul journey.
Strasbourg also has a small international airport, and it is possible to fly directly to Strasbourg Airport (SXB). However, the airport offers limited international flights (mostly European connections), and often requires a connection via Paris, Amsterdam, or Frankfurt
Convenient if timings align, but usually more expensive and less flexible
From SXB airport, you can take 10-minute train ride to Strasbourg city center or taxi (~15 minutes)
Weather
The most enjoyable cycling conditions for this tour are from May to September, when temperatures are generally warm and daylight is long. June to August offers the best overall weather, with average daytime temperatures between 20–25°C (68–77°F), though short heat spikes above 35°C (95°F) can occur in July and August. April and October are mixed months, with cooler air and variable conditions.
Winter months are considered offseason due to cold temperatures, shorter days, and a higher chance of rain or frost.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Mixed
May
Good
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Good
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.
For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.
Before Your Tour
When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.
At the Start of the Tour
The setup experience varies by destination:
-
In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.
-
In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.
All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.
During the Tour
You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.
What to Expect
The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:
- You start with the correct frame size
- You can fine-tune your comfort easily
- You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route
It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.
On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.
Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.
We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
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