Bike and Barge Tours & Trips in Europe
Picture yourself admiring Colmar’s ancient timber-framed buildings, or cycling through the breathtaking Black Forest. You’d be remiss not to sample a genuine Black Forest cake, right in its homeland! Try local wines in the beautiful town of Rüdesheim, sat along the Rhine River. Finally, don't miss the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, where the Dutch Masters’ works offer a window into history.
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- Choose from 25 Europe tours
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Sherry • traveled in June, 2025
We had a great time on our bike/ barge trip! The food was outstanding as was the cook. The barge was unique and functional, but the washing machine was broken and had to be replaced, dishwasher was broken the entire trip. The captain seemed indifferent to us, after being very helpful pre trip. The guide was friendly, knowledgeable and eager to share the areas history. The bikes were certainly less than expected and not in good operating condition. The host was on his first trip and the deckhand/assistant varied between friendly and aloof and moody. The trip plan had to change because of lock work, which is certainly understandable, but there also seemed to be many delays with the need to find water. We moored near several interesting villages, we often moored in ugly industrial sites! Our entire group was quite surprised by the liquor charges. The trip information stated that wine and beer would be available at reasonable prices on the boat. All the wines were €30 plus. We did not find that reasonable! corkage fee was €10 to bring any outside bottles! Overall, we enjoyed the experience, but it could have been better
Paris to Bruges (Brugge), Bike & Barge in France and Belgium - S
Susie • traveled in April, 2026
Wanderlust Woman is a great way to travel. The trip was very organized and it was nice to not have to worry about any travel details once we arrived. Kelly was readily available to answer any and all questions and everything ran very smoothly . It was also fun to meet other women on the trip and share the experiences with them. Recommend 100%!!
Wanderlust Women Bike and Barge Tour through Burgundy France 7 Nights E-bike Cycling Tour (Women Only)
10 best Bike and Barge Europe tour packages
Compiled by
NadineEurope travel expert at TourRadar
- Grand Rhine & Dutch Canals 2026 Start Basel, End Amsterdam
- MS Princess Katharina - along the Danube to Budapest
- MS SE-Manon - Along the Danube to Budapest
- MS Vivienne - Danube Waltz
- MS Primadonna - Passau-Budapest-Passau
- MS Olympia - Saarburg-Koblenz
- MS Princess Katharina - along the Danube to Vienna
- Bike cruise from Passau to Vienna and back
- Iconic Japan: Futuristic Wonders & Timeless Traditions
- MS Rigoletto - North Holland
Pedal through Europe's most scenic routes, from Hellevoetsluis to Haringvlietdam, and along the Neckar River to medieval Ladenburg. Take guided bike tours through Brussels' Laeken Park, Antwerp's historic center, and past Kinderdijk's iconic windmills. All equipment provided.
Duration 15 days Destinations Switzerland, Germany, France, Netherlands, Belgium, England Age Range Ages 12+ Operator AmaWaterways From
- US$7,999+$500 upfront costs
MS Prinzessin Katharina anchors this 40-50km daily cycling adventure through Europe's river valleys. Routes link Engelhartszell's Trappist monastery, the Danube Loop, and Szentendre's artists' colony.
Duration 8 days Destinations Germany, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in Only: German Operator DERTOUR From
- US$973
Scenic river landscapes unfold from Danube Loop to Wachau Valley. Daily routes of 40-53km with support from MS SE-Manon as floating hotel. Tour Hof Castle, Melk Abbey, and art-filled Szentendre between rides.
Duration 8 days Destinations Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in Only: German Operator DERTOUR From
- US$1,674
The Danube's riverside paths stretch from Passau to Budapest, with daily rides of 37-50km. Visit the Danube Loop, Wachau Valley vineyards, and medieval towns while returning to MS Vivienne's comfort each evening. Local wine taverns and optional city tours in Vienna and Bratislava await.
Duration 8 days Destinations Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in Only: German Operator DERTOUR From
- US$1,228
MS Primadonna provides comfort between ambitious rides: 56km along Schlogener Schlinge UNESCO site, 31km through Vienna Woods, and 59km to artistic Szentendre, complete with bike storage and packed lunches.
Duration 8 days Destinations Germany, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in Only: German Operator DERTOUR From
- US$1,494
MS Olympia anchors this wine country cycling tour with daily routes of 38-53km. The itinerary connects Trier to Mehring, Piesport's Roman sites, and beautiful Beilstein.
Duration 8 days Destinations Germany, Luxembourg, Switzerland Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in Only: German Operator DERTOUR From
- US$1,262
MS Prinzessin Katharina hosts this Danube cycling adventure with 32-51km daily rides. The route weaves through Machland's plains, Wachau's vineyards, and Vienna's outskirts.
Duration 8 days Destinations Passau, Engelhartszell, Linz, Aschach, Grein, Mauthausen, Mitterkirchen, Tulln, Melk, WachauSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in Only: German Operator DERTOUR From
- US$1,042
What our customers ask about Bike and Barge Tours & Trips in Europe
When is the best time to go on a Bike and Barge tour in Europe?
The prime season for European Bike and Barge tours runs from May to September. Weather conditions are most favorable during these months with moderate temperatures that suit both cycling and river cruising. The Danube region sees temperatures around 75°F (24°C) from June to August while the Rhine Valley is less crowded and particularly pleasant during May and September. A TourRadar traveler who cruised the MS Manon along the Danube noted that "the July weather was perfect for both cycling and evening deck activities." These months provide extended daylight hours which gives travelers more time to explore destinations like the Seine Valley both by bike and boat.
What are the typical cycling distances on European Bike and Barge tours?
Each day's ride covers between 25-55 kilometers (15-34 miles) with options to adjust routes based on preference. The North Holland tour on MS Rigoletto features varied routes such as a 29km ride around Enkhuizen and a longer 55km coastal stretch to Medemblik. The Danube itinerary includes routes like the 43km path from Engelhartszell to Aschach. A TourRadar traveler shared about the Croatia Bike and Boat tour: "The cycling was great with options for different fitness levels and the ability to skip a day if desired." Most tours provide transport alternatives for those who want to take a break from cycling.
What type of accommodation can I expect on a Bike and Barge tour?
River vessels serve as floating hotels with well-equipped cabins. The MS Vivienne provides outside cabins featuring private bathrooms TV and climate control. The MS SE-Manon adds luxury touches with its sun deck swimming pool and wellness facilities. A TourRadar traveler described the MS Primadonna saying "the accommodation and meals on the boat were fabulous providing the perfect balance of comfort and adventure." Vessels typically offer multiple cabin categories from standard lower deck rooms to premium upper deck suites with French balconies letting guests choose based on their comfort needs.
What's included in the meal plan for Bike and Barge tours in Europe?
Full board featuring regional cuisine comes standard on most tours. The Seine Valley tour covers 7 breakfasts 6 picnic lunches and 6 dinners. Danube routes typically include breakfast buffets packed cycling lunches and three-course evening meals. Many boats like the MS Rigoletto provide all-day coffee and tea service plus afternoon treats. According to a TourRadar traveler from the North Dalmatia tour "the food was consistently excellent with local specialties and plenty of options for different dietary preferences." Special dietary needs can be met with advance notice though some tours add a 70 USD supplement.
What are the must-see highlights of a Bike and Barge tour in Europe?
European waterways connect travelers to both UNESCO sites and natural wonders. The Danube route takes you through Vienna's historic center past Melk Abbey and into the Wachau Valley. Rhine tours stop at landmarks like Drachenburg Castle and Marksburg fortress. The Seine Valley includes visits to the Palace of Fontainebleau and medieval towns like Ferriers. A TourRadar traveler noted: "Cycling through the Schlogener Schlinge on the MS SE-Manon tour was breathtaking offering perfect photo opportunities of the Danube's famous bend." Each route balances cultural sites with scenic cycling paths.
What's the average group size on European Bike and Barge tours?
Tour groups range from 20 to 80 passengers depending on vessel size. The MS SE-Manon carries 74 guests while the MS Rigoletto accommodates 57. These numbers create a social atmosphere without feeling overcrowded. A TourRadar traveler from the Cologne to Mainz tour shared: "The group size was perfect - large enough for good company but small enough to get to know everyone." Tours maintain appropriate guide ratios adding staff for groups over 18 people.