Cycling in Munich: Riding the Isar Paths and City Routes

Munich is one of the most comfortable large cities in Germany to explore by bicycle. The terrain is largely flat, the network of dedicated cycle paths is extensive and well signed, and a large share of everyday journeys in the city are made on two wheels. For a visitor, hiring a bike can be the quickest and most pleasant way to cover ground.

The finest ride is along the Isar. The river runs through the city from south to north, and both banks carry paths that link parks, gravel beaches and weirs. Heading south, the route leaves the built-up centre surprisingly quickly and reaches the restored, near-natural stretches of riverbank where locals swim and picnic in summer; heading north, the paths connect with the Englischer Garten and continue out of the city. It is possible to ride for a long way without ever fighting traffic.

Bikes are easy to come by. The city has a public bike-share scheme with stations across the centre, several private hire shops offer daily and weekly rentals, and app-based rental bikes are widely available. Helmets are not compulsory for adults but are sensible, and lights are required after dark.

The rules of the road reward a little attention. Cyclists should use the marked cycle lanes where they exist, which are often part of the pavement and coloured or separated from pedestrians, and should keep off footpaths that are for walkers only. Watch for tram tracks, which can catch a narrow tyre, and remember that traffic drives on the right.

For a half-day out, a ride along the Isar combines exercise, greenery and river views with almost no climbing, and it can be broken up with a stop at a beer garden or a swim on a hot day. It is one of the best ways to see how Munich actually lives.