Cycling in Berlin

Berlin has earned its reputation as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. The capital embraces the cyclist culture, which isn’t just great for the environment but offers a unique perspective of the city. Rather than being confined in a car or bus, you get to breathe the fresh Berlin air, stop whenever a sight catches your eye, and be part of the urban tapestry.

Berlin Wall Trail: Stretching about 160 kilometers, this path follows the former Berlin Wall. While it’s a longer route, it’s perfectly doable in sections. Cycling this trail, you’ll witness important historical landmarks, memorials, and remnants of the Wall.

Tiergarten & Brandenburg Gate: Start at the iconic Brandenburg Gate, and pedal your way through the lush Tiergarten, Berlin’s central park. It’s a peaceful ride with numerous cafes and spots to relax along the way.

Tempelhof Field: Once an airport, Tempelhof has transformed into a vast public park, ideal for a relaxed bike ride. Experience open skies, urban gardening projects, and community spaces in this unique setting.

Landwehr Canal: For those who love a waterside ride, the Landwehr Canal offers a serene path from Neukölln to Tiergarten. It’s lined with beautiful trees, cafes, and is perfect for a lazy afternoon ride.

Berlin’s bike rental scene is booming, thanks to the increasing number of travelers preferring two wheels over four. Here’s how you can join them:

Traditional Bike Shops: Fahrradstation, Berlin on Bike, and Rent a Bike 44 are reputable shops offering daily rentals. You can expect to pay around €8 to €12 per day.

App-Based Rentals: Services like Lime and Donkey Republic allow you to rent a bike using just your smartphone. They’re convenient, especially for shorter rides.

Berlin’s Official Bike Sharing Program: Deezer Nextbike offers stations all around Berlin. You register, pick a bike, ride it, and return it to any station.

Stay on Designated Paths: Berlin is crisscrossed with dedicated bike lanes. Use them. They’re safe, and they often offer the most direct route to popular destinations.

Lock It Up: Always lock your bike, even if you’re stepping away for just a moment. Bike theft is common in major cities, including Berlin.

Obey Traffic Rules: Cyclists are expected to obey the same rules as motorists. Watch out for traffic signals, and always give pedestrians the right of way.

Dress for the Weather: Berlin’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack a light rain jacket if there’s even a slight chance of rain.

Night Riding: If you’re cycling after dark, ensure your bike has reflectors and lights. Visibility is essential.

Once you’ve completed your journey, head over to some of Berlin’s best cyclist-friendly spots:

Café Vélo: This cyclist-themed café is not only known for its delectable coffee but also for its bike repair services and cycling events.

Steel Vintage Bikes Café: Sip on a refreshing drink amidst a collection of classic vintage bikes.

Radler’s: Located in Friedrichshain, it’s the perfect place to relax after a long ride. Enjoy their selection of beers and local dishes.

A city as historically rich and vast as Berlin deserves to be explored without haste. Cycling lets you do just that. Whether you’re tracing the path of the Berlin Wall, soaking in the natural beauty of Tiergarten, or just cruising alongside the Spree, Berlin promises an unparalleled biking adventure.

To truly immerse yourself in the culture and pace of Berlin, hop on a bike, and let the city reveal itself one pedal at a time.