Cycling day trip from Magdeburg to Dessau

This is a scenic ride from Magdeburg to Dessau, covering just over 74 km mostly on paved surfaces. You’ll start in Magdeburg, a city known for its impressive Gothic cathedral and the striking Hundertwasser-designed Green Citadel. From there, you’ll head mostly south, threading through forests, small villages, and fields along quiet roads and dedicated paths—an ideal escape from city traffic.

The terrain is pretty gentle, so you won’t face any tough climbs—the highest point barely reaches 111 meters. About half the ride is on smooth paths, with a good chunk on calm, quiet roads and some well-maintained tracks. There’s a little bit of gravel in the mix, and a few sections where the surface changes, so wider tires are a plus if you’ve got them.

You’ll end in Dessau, a town famous for its Bauhaus architecture and UNESCO heritage sites. Grab a coffee at one of the cafes and soak up the creative history before heading home. All in all, it’s a relaxed and picturesque route great for a day out on the bike.