Bike and Barge: Frankfurt/Main to Stuttgart/Bad Cannstatt (MS Casanova)

Your Bike & Barge holiday begins with embarkation at 4:00 p.m. in Frankfurt am Main. At 6:00 p.m., it’s time to cast off and start your journey! Relax and enjoy your first dinner cruise as the ship sails from the River Main into the majestic Rhine.

Your floating hotel will moor overnight in the charming and picturesque wine town of Nierstein, offering a peaceful start to your unforgettable cycling adventure through Germany.

With nearly 1,000 hectares of vineyards, Nierstein is the largest wine-growing community along the Rhine—an ideal starting point for a day of exploration on your cycling holiday in Germany. Begin with a visit to the historic town centre, where a medieval marketplace and grand noble estates tell stories of a rich past.

From here, cycle directly along the Rhine River towards the imperial city of Worms, one of Germany’s oldest cities. The route continues across Friesenheimer Island, offering scenic natural landscapes in striking contrast to the industrial skyline of BASF on the opposite bank.

Just a few kilometres further, you’ll arrive at the confluence of the Neckar and Rhine rivers, near Mannheim, where your floating hotel will be waiting. If you’re still feeling energetic, take a short detour into Mannheim’s “City of Squares” to admire the impressive Baroque palace, one of the largest in Europe.

This leg of your bike and barge tour perfectly blends nature, history, and urban discovery—hallmarks of a truly memorable cycling holiday along the Rhine and Neckar.

Today’s route follows the scenic Neckar River by bike, leading you through picturesque landscapes all the way to the iconic city of Heidelberg—a highlight of any cycling holiday in Germany.

On the way, be sure to stop in Ladenburg, a former Roman settlement with a beautifully preserved historic centre full of charm and character. It’s the perfect place for a short break and a taste of local heritage.

As you approach Heidelberg, the romantic ruins of Heidelberg Castle rise into view, overlooking the old town from a dramatic hillside perch. Once in the city, take a walk across the famous Old Bridge, made of sandstone, or meander through Heidelberg’s narrow alleys and picturesque squares, where history and atmosphere blend effortlessly.

Today’s cycling route takes you from Heidelberg via Ziegelhausen, following the Neckar River as it winds through the scenic Odenwald forest. Enjoy peaceful woodland paths and rolling countryside as you make your way to Neckarsteinach, known for its four castles and picturesque riverside setting.

Continue to the medieval town of Hirschhorn, often called the “Pearl of the Neckar Valley,” before reaching your final destination for the day: the historic Staufer town of Eberbach.

Here, a gentle stroll through narrow alleys and charming squares invites you to relax and take in the warm, welcoming atmosphere of this delightful old town.

Today’s destination is the enchanting medieval town of Bad Wimpfen, a place that feels lifted from the pages of a fairytale. Once the imperial residence of Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa in 1182, this historic town is a true highlight of any cycling holiday along the Neckar Valley.

Before reaching Bad Wimpfen, consider a rewarding detour to Hornberg Castle, one of the most picturesque castles in the region. Perched high above the river, the castle became a fief of the Bishops of Speyer after 1259 and later, in the 16th century, served as the residence of the legendary knight Götz von Berlichingen.

With its storybook skyline, half-timbered houses, and centuries of imperial history, Bad Wimpfen offers a magical end to another memorable day.

Today’s ride offers a relaxed and scenic cycling experience along the Neckar, following well-maintained cycle paths through gentle river valleys, rolling vineyards, and postcard-perfect wine villages.

Take your time and stop off in one of the small wine towns en route—known for their rustic taverns, welcoming inns, and local vintages. These charming spots are perfect for a break and a taste of authentic regional hospitality.

Your destination is Lauffen am Neckar, birthplace of the renowned poet Friedrich Hölderlin and one of the hidden gems of the region. The town’s atmospheric old centre, with its timber-framed houses and deep-rooted wine tradition, invites you to explore, unwind, and soak up the local culture.

Today is dedicated to discovering Stuttgart, the vibrant capital of Baden-Württemberg, where urban charm meets green landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed ride or a more challenging workout, this day offers a variety of ways to explore the city and its surroundings.

Cycle through idyllic vineyards, expansive parks, and picturesque suburbs. For those seeking a bit more adventure, ride up into the Stuttgart basin—the climbs are worth it for the panoramic views across the city, the Rems Valley, and the distant Swabian Alb. Alternatively, enjoy a gentle bike ride along the Neckar River, taking in the city’s green spaces and riverside scenery.

Prefer to explore on foot? Join an optional guided walking tour of Stuttgart’s cultural highlights. Must-see sights include Schlossplatz, the lively central square; Königsstraße, Stuttgart’s main shopping avenue; and the acclaimed Staatsgalerie art museum. For car lovers, the Mercedes-Benz Museum and Porsche Museum (entry not included) offer a deep dive into Germany’s legendary automotive heritage.

Every journey draws to an end. Departure from Stuttgart / Bad Cannstatt is about 09 am.

Embarkation: from 4 pm
Disembarkation: until 9 am

Minimum number of participants: 75 guests (must be reached at least 21 days before departure).

Bringing your bike:
Available on request only due to limited space on the sun deck.
E-bikes are accepted exclusively if they have removable battery packs.
Please note, we exclude all liability for loss, theft, or damage — including damage caused during transportation between shore and ship or vice versa.

Excursions:
A small excursion programme is available and can be booked directly on board with the cruise director. A brief description will be provided with your travel documents. Depending on the number of participants, some excursions may be conducted in two languages (German/English).

Luggage recommendations:
We suggest packing rainwear, a bicycle helmet, a sunhat, and comfortable sneakers.

Schedule and programme changes:
We reserve the right to make changes to the route and programme as needed. In cases of flooding or low water levels, the shipping company may arrange bus transfers for certain sections. In extreme situations, the company reserves the right to cancel the trip at short notice. No legal claims arise from these circumstances. This also applies to unannounced official repair works on locks or bridges.

Notes:
Please be aware that a cruise ship is not only your hotel but also a working machine, operating with engines during the night. Activities such as crossing locks and bridges — including their preparation — may cause noise. If you are sensitive, we recommend bringing earplugs.

Digital travel documents and route maps:
In support of sustainability and climate protection, we encourage you to choose our digital route book instead of printed documents. The GUIBO app will be your constant companion throughout your SE-Tours trip. With a glance at your smartphone, you can access all important information—travel details, ship contacts, and your bike tours—available offline anytime. The app is free and compatible with all standard smartphones. You will receive login details by email before your journey begins.

Travel documents:
EU citizens (excluding special cases such as dual citizenship, residence abroad, or passports with limited validity) must hold a valid passport or ID card, valid for at least six months beyond the end of the cruise.
Non-EU citizens, EU nationals with multiple citizenship, or anyone subject to specific legal entry requirements should check visa and entry regulations with the relevant embassy.

Accessibility:
This trip is not suitable for guests with reduced mobility.

Insurance recommendations:
We strongly advise obtaining travel health insurance with repatriation coverage, as well as baggage, accident, and travel cancellation insurance.

All times are subject to change. Please book your travel according to the scheduled arrival and departure times.

• • 
    Ship name: MS Casanova
  • Year of construction: 1999
  • Registry: Switzerland
  • Length: 103 m
  • Width: 9.7 m
  • Draft: 1.55 m
  • Passengers: max. 96

  A touch of Rococo and an elegant atmosphere welcome you aboard the MS Casanova. Lovingly designed details, playful ornaments, and reproductions of famous paintings lend the ship its very own charm. In the stylish restaurant, the attentive crew takes care of your culinary needs. The spacious panorama lounge, with its regal flair, invites you to relax — whether over a glass of wine, a cocktail, or a pleasant chat at the bar. Those who wish to enjoy the scenery outside will find comfortable loungers and seating on the partially covered sun deck — the perfect place to take in the passing river landscapes.

  All 48 cabins are located on the outside of the ship and are equipped with a shower/WC, hairdryer, TV, safe (deposit required), minibar, onboard telephone, and individually adjustable air conditioning. In cabins with two single beds, one bed can be converted into a sofa during the day for added comfort. Cabins with a double bed (160 x 200 cm) have separate mattresses. All twin-bed cabins are approximately 12 m² in size.

  Main Deck:
  
  A total of 22 cabins with panoramic windows that cannot be opened.

  • 16 twin-bed cabins: eight with two single beds, eight with a double bed.

  • Four Eco* twin-bed cabins with two single beds are located at the rear of the ship.

  • Two more spacious Deluxe cabins with a double bed are located at the front of the ship.

  Upper Deck:

  A total of 26 cabins with French balconies (floor-to-ceiling windows that can be opened).

  • 22 twin-bed cabins: 14 with two single beds, eight with a double bed.

  • Four Eco* twin-bed cabins with two single beds are located at the rear of the ship.

  Please note: engine and generator noise may be noticeable in Eco cabins.

Arrival: Frankfurt

Departure: Stuttgart

Nearest arrival airport(s): Frankfurt

Nearest departure airport(s): Stuttgart (Or return to Frankfurt)

We also recommend travelling by train to all of our cycling holiday starting and departure points. We can help you plan your journey to Frankfurt by rail. Car parking is available on all tours at the first hotel or a nearby public parking location. Full details are available on request.

Please do not book travel until an official invoice confirms the details of your cycling holiday.