Berlin: (E)-Bike & Boat: The City’s Biggest Lake & Lagoon

This guided tour offers an unusual way to see Berlin—by blending cycling through lush, rural districts with a scenic solar ferry crossing the city’s biggest lake and lagoon. Rather than sticking solely to the urban sights, this experience takes you into the outskirts of Berlin’s extensive water landscape, emphasizing the city’s surprisingly abundant lakes and green spaces. It’s a chance to see a very different side of Berlin—rural, peaceful, and full of water, yet still connected to the city’s core.

What I find particularly appealing is the combination of bike riding supported by electric power (or conventional bikes if you prefer) and the quiet, eco-friendly ferry ride. This makes it an enjoyable outing for those wanting a gentle yet active way to explore. Plus, the tour is nearly emission-free, thanks to bikes, a solar ferry, and public transportation, which makes it an attractive option for eco-conscious travelers.

Two specific highlights that stand out are the chance to explore the New Venice Lagoon—an artificial, picturesque water suburb—and the insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides like Michael, who many reviews praise for their friendliness and depth of knowledge. However, a word of caution: this tour requires participants to be comfortable riding bikes, and the 33 km distance, while mostly flat, might be a stretch for some. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 12 or those with mobility issues.

This experience offers a rich blend of nature, history, and local life, woven with personal touches from guides and a chance to take in less touristy views of Berlin. If you enjoy outdoor activities, learning about Berlin’s natural landscape, and scenic water views, this tour could be a memorable part of your trip.

• Eco-friendly focus with bikes, solar ferry, and metro included.
• Includes a scenic 25-minute ferry crossing Berlin’s largest lake and lagoon.
• Guided by knowledgeable and friendly guides who share insights into Berlin’s history and environment.
• Explores a rural, lakeside side of Berlin far from the city center.
• Supports a relaxed pace with plenty of photo stops, breaks, and snack opportunities.
• Suitable for experienced cyclists who are comfortable riding about 33 km on mostly flat terrain.

Berlin is often thought of as a city of history, politics, and vibrant neighborhoods, but few realize how water-rich it truly is. With countless lakes, canals, and the famous River Spree, Berlin’s natural setting is surprisingly extensive. This tour, organized by Bikegreen.de, is designed to help you see this side of the city in a relaxed, eco-conscious way.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike typical city bike tours that stick to streets and major sights, this experience takes you beyond the hustle and bustle into Berlin’s rural lakes and green districts. It’s perfect for travelers who love nature, want a break from urban sightseeing, and are open to a slightly longer, active outing. The five-and-a-half-hour duration includes plenty of variety: cycling through parks, forests, lakeside villages, and crossing the large lake by solar-powered ferry.

What makes this tour special is its focus on sustainability and authenticity. The use of electric bikes (with the option to ride conventional bikes) means you’re not worn out before reaching the scenic highlights. The solar ferry adds a peaceful, quiet element to the journey, making it especially enjoyable if you appreciate eco-technology and quiet watercraft.

The Itinerary in Detail: From Urban to Rural

Starting at a location just 2 km east of Alexanderplatz ensures easy metro access, which is a plus for travelers arriving by public transport. The tour kicks off by cycling through Lichtenberg, a largely residential district that showcases the mix of urban and suburban Berlin. From there, the group heads toward the Dong Xuan Center, a lively Asian market space, perfect for a quick photo stop and a taste of local multiculturalism.

Next, the route takes you through the Landschaftspark Herzberge, a beautiful park with wooded areas and open fields. The guide shares insights into Berlin’s post-war development and the city’s transformation from the GDR era, which many reviews found engaging. Moving toward Marzahn-Hellersdorf, you’ll see more green spaces and typical East Berlin architecture.

The tour continues to Kleintierhof Wuhletal, a small farm and zoo, where you can take a break, enjoy a snack, and capture some photos of animals and the scenic water views. From there, the route turns toward the Müggel Park, a popular lakeside area, perfect for a longer break, with opportunities for swimming or relaxing by the water.

At the Museum im Alten Wasserwerk, you get a quick glimpse of Berlin’s industrial past, before crossing by ferry for 25 minutes to the New Venice area—an artificially created lagoon that mimics Italian water towns, with canals, small bridges, and scenic houses. Many reviews describe the ferry ride as a highlight, with “great insights and views,” and the perfect chance to relax and soak in the scenery.

After exploring New Venice, the group takes a train for about 25 minutes back toward the city. The last part of the ride takes you through Friedrichshain, passing by popular neighborhoods and lively streets, before finally returning to the starting point.

The Water and Nature Experience: Why It Matters

Most of the tour’s charm lies in the interplay of water and greenery. The 25-minute ferry is not only a practical crossing but a tranquil moment when you feel miles away from the city’s concrete. The lakes and canals are dotted with small beaches, green parks, and quiet spots, giving the tour a nearly vacation-like feel.

Several reviews highlight the “idyllic Fahrt” (scenic ride) and the “Urlaubsstimmung” (holiday atmosphere), especially at Müggelsee, with the bustling yet relaxed vibe of people enjoying the lakeside. You might find, as one reviewer noted, “the best part was the scenic ferry crossing and the peaceful lakeside views,” which offer a refreshing perspective on Berlin’s natural environment.

The Guides and Their Role

Guides like Michael and others are repeatedly praised for their friendly demeanor and wealth of information. They help you understand Berlin’s history from the last ice age to reunification, making the experience both relaxing and educational. Their insights turn a simple ride into a storytelling journey that enhances your understanding of Berlin’s landscape and history.

Accessibility and Practical Details

This tour is designed for experienced cyclists comfortable riding about 33 km over 4.5-5 hours. The terrain is flat, and most of the ride is supported by bike assistance or tailwinds, making it accessible for most active travelers. The tour is not suitable for children under 12, those who can’t ride a bike, or people with mobility issues.

The price covers bikes, helmets, water, ferry and metro tickets, and a small souvenir set, which adds value. A notable review mentioned that participants could keep the bikes overnight for a small fee, adding flexibility for later exploration.

The group is limited to 10 participants, fostering a more personalized experience. Meeting at a well-connected location ensures easy access by public transport, which is handy when planning your day in Berlin.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys active outdoor experiences, this tour will suit you. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a nature-focused, eco-friendly way to see Berlin’s lakeside districts. It’s also perfect for those who love scenic water crossings and learning about local history in a relaxed setting.

However, if you prefer urban sightseeing or have mobility challenges, this might not be the best fit. The 33 km ride, while mostly flat, still demands some level of cycling endurance.

This tour expertly combines nature, history, and local life into one engaging package. The common praise for guides like Michael and the scenic ferry crossing hints at a well-organized, thoughtfully curated experience. It offers a fresh perspective on Berlin, far from the typical city tour routes, showing you the quiet, water-laden districts that often go unnoticed.

For eco-minded travelers, the emphasis on sustainability adds to its appeal. The small group size makes the experience more intimate, and the inclusion of bike, ferry, metro tickets, water, and souvenirs makes it a good value for those looking to explore without extra hassle.

While it is a longer, more active outing, most will find the scenery, the gentle pace, and the knowledgeable guides worth the effort. It’s a wonderful way to see Berlin’s natural beauty and learn about its complex past, all while enjoying a relaxing day on two wheels and the water.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 12, as it involves a 33 km bike ride and some physical endurance.

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?
Yes, participants should be experienced cyclists comfortable riding on flat terrain for about 33 km. The ride is mostly supported, but endurance is expected.

Are electric bikes available?
Yes, electric bikes are available on request, though limited in number. Contact the provider beyond booking to reserve one.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes bikes, helmets, water, ferry and metro tickets, and a small Berlin souvenir set.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4.5 to 5.5 hours, including breaks, ferry passage, and travel time.

Where is the meeting point?
It’s in front of the bike shop at Cotheniusstraße 8, about 2 km east of Alexanderplatz, with excellent metro and tram connections.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include the scenic ferry crossing, exploring New Venice, visiting lakeside parks like Müggelsee, and experiencing Berlin’s less city-centric districts.

Is the tour environmentally friendly?
Absolutely. It emphasizes sustainability with bikes, solar-powered ferry, and public transportation, making it a low-emission adventure.

Can I leave the bikes overnight?
Yes, for a small fee, you can keep the bikes overnight, offering flexibility for later exploration.

This experience is particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy active outdoor adventures, waterfront scenery, and learning about Berlin’s natural side. It’s ideal if you want to combine exercise with sightseeing, and you’re comfortable riding bikes for a few hours.

If you’re a history enthusiast, the tour’s guides provide insightful context, making it more than just a ride. Conversely, if your interests are primarily urban landmarks or if mobility is an issue, this might not be the best choice.

Overall, it’s a fantastic way to see a different side of Berlin—less crowded, more peaceful, and full of scenic water views—and it offers a memorable, eco-friendly adventure that blends nature, history, and local life.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic water routes, informative guides, and sustainable transportation. It’s a solid choice for active, curious travelers eager to see Berlin’s lakes and lagoons up close, away from the busy city streets. Expect a relaxed pace, plenty of photo opportunities, and a chance to experience how nature and city life intertwine in this water-world city.