EmsRadweg Self-Guided: Stages, Accommodations & Map 2026
The EmsRadweg runs in Germany along the River Ems from Hövelhof to Emden. Along the way you’ll pass, among others, Münster, Rheine, Lingen, Meppen, Papenburg and Leer.
The EmsRadweg is 380,5 km long and takes you along the River Ems from Hövelhof to Emden. On the way you’ll roll through plenty of towns and cities, including Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock, Rietberg, Rheda-Wiedenbrück, Münster, Rheine, Lingen, Meppen, Papenburg and Leer. Navigation is straightforward: stick with the river and mix smaller places with bigger stops like Münster. The official site also flags up themed stop-offs, for example “Gärten & Parks”, “Rad und Kanu” and “Seenotretter – DGzRS”. According to the official website (signposting) and Wikipedia, the route is well and consistently signed, which makes DIY planning a lot easier. It works well if you want a long route that’s basically one clear, waymarked line; it can also work with family, as long as you keep your daily distances short. You’re planning this trip yourself: use the towns as flexible overnight anchors and build your stages around your time and what you feel like riding.
Route Profile
| Distance | 381 km |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Best Season | Spring, Summer, Autumn |
| Signage | Well signposted |
| Suitable For | Families, Beginners, Recreational cyclists, E-bike, With children |
| Surface | Mixed |
EmsRadweg Map
BikeTouri Tip: View the complete route on a map in BikeTouri – with all accommodations and supply points. Also available offline.
The Most Beautiful Section on the EmsRadweg
The section that feels easiest to plan around clear, dependable stops is Münster → Rheine, because you’re linking two big, obvious stage towns from the official list, with extra anchors on the way like Greven, Saerbeck and Emsdetten. Highlight: if you like breaking the day up with themed stop-offs, this section lines up nicely with the official “Erlebniswelten” like “Gärten & Parks” or “Rad und Kanu” without you having to plot long detours.
Highlights on the EmsRadweg
- Münster as a big, easy stop on the route (place listed on the official website; stage highlight according to Wikipedia).
- Papenburg as a named place on the route (stage highlight according to Wikipedia).
- Emden as the end point of the EmsRadweg (place listed on the official website; stage highlight according to Wikipedia).
- “Seenotretter – DGzRS” as a themed point mentioned on the official website.
- “Pluspunkt Borkum” as an extra/add-on option mentioned on the official website.
Accommodations on the EmsRadweg
Along the EmsRadweg you'll find numerous accommodation options – from hotels and guesthouses to campsites and small tent meadows.
Campsites & Tent Options
Along the EmsRadweg there are numerous places to camp – from large campsites to small tent meadows on farms. Campsites usually don't need to be booked in advance.
Hotels & Guesthouses
Numerous accommodations along the route – from hostels and guesthouses to hotels. Important for cycle tourists: secure bike storage and no minimum stay requirements.
BikeTouri Tip: BikeTouri shows you all accommodations along the route – with prices, amenities, and reviews from cycle tourists. Also available offline.
Planning Your EmsRadweg Trip
What should you book in advance?
During peak season (June-August), it's recommended to book accommodations in popular stops 1-2 days ahead. Outside peak season, spontaneous booking is usually possible.
What can you decide spontaneously?
Daily distances, rest stops, restaurant visits, and detours to attractions can all be decided on the day based on weather and how you're feeling.
Typical daily costs
Practical Information
Getting There & Away
The route is well connected by train at both start and end points. Most regional trains accept bicycles, though reservations may be required during peak season.
Shopping Along the Way
Supermarkets and grocery stores can be found in most towns along the route. Plan for longer stretches in rural areas where shops may be limited.
Bike Shops & Repairs
Bicycle repair shops are available in larger towns. Carry basic tools and a spare tube for emergencies between service points.
More Information
Conclusion
The EmsRadweg delivers a clear line from Hövelhof to Emden and, according to the sources, good, consistent signposting. The big plus is how easy it is to plan around loads of named places and solid fixed points like Münster, Papenburg and Emden. Downsides: the sources don’t give reliable detail on surface and elevation profile, so you’ll need to check that separately when you get into the finer planning.
Why BikeTouri?
We don't just show the big campsites – but also small tent meadows, farms, and cyclist-friendly guesthouses. With prices, reviews from cycle tourists, and offline maps.