Cycling day trip from Dresden to Chemnitz

Ready for a full day in the saddle? This route takes you from the beautiful baroque city of Dresden to the creative heart of Saxony, Chemnitz—a ride of about 98 kilometers through rolling hills and scenic countryside.

You'll start among the grand architecture and buzzing riverbanks of Dresden, then quickly head into quieter towns and villages. The surface is mostly paved or asphalt, but expect the occasional gravel stretch and some sections on country tracks, so a sturdy road or touring bike is ideal.

There’s a fair bit of climbing—over 1,400 meters ascent!—as you cross lush valleys and gentle mountains, with your highest point just nudging 497 meters. Don’t worry, you’ll earn some sweeping descents, too.

As Chemnitz appears, you’ll notice its blend of industry and modern culture—the city has reinvented itself from Karl-Marx-Stadt days into a hotbed of art and innovation.

Pack snacks and enjoy the ride: this is classic Saxony by bike, mixing city energy with peaceful rural landscapes and just the right dose of adventure.