Medieval Germany River Cruise

On arrival, a comfortable coach will take you to your five-star cruise ship in Mainz.

The dedicated English-speaking crew is ready to welcome you, and there’s an air of anticipation and excitement as you and your like-minded fellow cruisers acquaint yourselves with the luxury surroundings of the ship that will be your home for the next seven days. You’ll soon be settled into your exceptionally well-equipped, spacious cabin and looking forward to a first-night dinner to start off your cruise in style.

Whether you decide to take breakfast in bed or set yourself up for the day at the plentiful buffet, afterwards you can enjoy a morning exploring bustling Mainz on our guided tour.

Dominating its skyline is the colossal six-towered 12th-century cathedral – St. Martin's Dom – a pinnacle of German Romanesque architecture that houses a spectacular nave, many elaborate tombs and a peaceful colonnaded cloister. Also unmissable is Saint Stephen’s Church, which features nine breath-taking stained glass windows, created by the artist Marc Chagall, that bathe the interior in magical blue light.

Book-lovers will appreciate the Gutenberg Museum, located in a gorgeous 17th-century building in Mainz’s Old Town, whose star attractions are two 1455 Gutenberg Bibles, among the first books ever printed. Of course, Mainz is also at the heart of Germany’s winelands, so it’s a pleasure to seek out a traditional wine tavern in the pastel-painted, timber-crisscrossed buildings of the old town to sample a glass. If you prefer beer, the vaulted chambers of the Eisgrub-Bräu beer hall are a fine place for a mug of the local dark brew.

Back on board your floating boutique hotel in the afternoon, find a relaxing seat in the lounge to take in the lovely views of lush woodland and fertile vineyards seamlessly idling by. As evening approaches, why not enjoy an apéritif in the bar before choosing a table in the restaurant to enjoy the chef’s masterful creations for dinner?

Today we’re moored in Miltenberg, a beautifully preserved medieval village whose labyrinth of winding alleys and lanes begs exploration. And so, this morning we do exactly that, as our local guide shows us the highlights of this charming destination.

Admire the impressive gatehouse which stands like a proud guardian of the village, and wander across the charming marketplace, lined by traditional fachwerk buildings instantly recognisable by their grids of timber framing. The story goes that locals were allowed free wood from the surrounding forests, hence the abundance of this architectural style. Highlights of this beautiful square include the trickling fountain, ornately carved from stone and complete with dancing cherubs, and the intricately detailed Gasthaus Zum Riesen, which claims to be Germany’s oldest tavern.

We pass under Miltenberg’s red-brick bridge and continue to Wertheim, navigating the gentle meandering bends typical of the Main River. After lunch on baord, you can learn more about the history of glassblowing and watch a fascinating demonstration of this historic craft.

Wertheim is completely off the main tourist trail, making it a delightful surprise, all the better for its untouched ambience. We pass the fishing boats riding at anchor while admiring the muted colours of the sage-green, pale lilac and buttercup-yellow houses opposite.

This afternoon, enjoy a carefully planned walking tour around this wonderfully intriguing town. A russet-walled 12th-century castle overlooks the old town, surveying the church spires, turrets and patchwork of multicoloured buildings below. There’s time to explore here and, as you wander the quaint and colourful market square, look out for the blink-and-miss-it Zobelhaus, a contender for the narrowest house in Germany.

This evening you’ll be served another delectable dinner, and overnight we cruise to Würzburg.

One of the delights of river cruising is indulging in complete relaxation, so this morning perhaps catch up on some reading or simply watch the world float by.

This afternoon we arrive at elegant Würzburg, which contrasts with the quaint towns and villages you’ve encountered so far.

We have a guided tour of this Bavarian city sitting resplendent on the banks of the Main, founded in the 10th century as the centre of the kingdom known as Franconia. The impressive Marienberg Fortress overlooks the neat blocks of grand pastel-coloured buildings punctuated by the spires and domes of the city’s many churches.

The jewel in Würzburg’s illustrious crown is the Residenz, a magnificent Baroque palace that whisks you back to a more romantic age. Originally conceived to rival the Palace of Versailles in scale, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and features one of Germany’s most spectacularly ornate staircases and dozens of interconnecting rooms adorned with gorgeous frescoes, priceless tapestries, sculptures and paintings.

There’s ample time to explore here as you wish before returning to the ship, enjoying another evening of exceptional cuisine and a drink in the bar as the pianist works his magic at the keyboard.

After breakfast we take a drive along the Romantic Road – the perfectly named route made up of a spellbinding procession of folkloric scenery, medieval towns, lofty castles and grand palaces, so picture-perfect they could all serve as film sets.

We arrive at gorgeous Rothenburg ob der Tauber, crowning a hill with glorious views over the meandering river Tauber below. The old town is cradled within immaculately preserved walls, and there’s time to explore its narrow, cobbled streets lined with tall gabled half-timbered houses.

A short drive takes us to Ochsenfurt, nestled on the banks of the Main where our ship and another superb lunch await.

This afternoon we explore this picturesque little town on a guided tour, with its romantic, half-timbered houses and ancient ramparts. Wander the old town, stopping to admire the façade of the town hall with its impressive mechanical clock and a lovely 13th-century church with its strikingly colourful interior before returning to the ship.

Another day dawns and this morning is free to enjoy the ship’s five-star facilities while admiring the magnificent undulating landscape. The foredeck features exquisite outdoor furnishing and there’s nothing quite as refreshing as the gentle breeze as we progress along the serene waters of the Main. Alternatively, why not find a quiet alfresco seat at the Lido Lounge at the stern of the ship and admire one enchanting vista after another?

We moor this afternoon in Bamberg, undoubtedly one of the prettiest small towns in the whole of Europe and so precious that UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site. Planned by Emperor Heinrich II in the 11th century as a Franconian capital, it sits on seven lush green hills, a similar setting to the city whose grandeur it was meant to equal – Rome! You’ll discover its history and many architectural highlights on our informative tour led by a local guide, which takes in the exquisite Old Town and impressive multi-spired cathedral.

Perhaps the most noticeable and intriguing landmark is Bamberg’s Old Town Hall, which sits on an island in the middle of the burbling river, flanked by bridges either side. From here you can also see ‘Little Venice’ – a delightful cluster of former fishermen’s houses built along the waterfront, mostly dating from the Middle Ages.

Leaving Bamberg, we join the Main–Danube canal, a superb feat of engineering guiding us to our next fascinating stop, Nuremberg.

Tonight, there’s another culinary highlight – the Chef’s Dinner, when the chef prepares his superb ‘signature’ dishes for you to enjoy in the splendid surroundings of the ship’s restaurant, with a chance to reflect on the fascinating places you have discovered, poignant stories you have heard and the new friends you have made. And after dinner, there's even more fun to be had as we enjoy Bavarian dance and songs performed on traditional instruments by a skilled trio.

Leaving Bamberg, we join the Main–Danube canal, a superb feat of engineering guiding us to our next fascinating stop, Nuremberg.

Enjoy a relaxing start to this final morning of sailing on the way to our last stop on this cruise. Maybe treat yourself with an appointment at the Hair dressers or Nail salon, browse the onboard boutique, or simply find a comfortable seat in the lounge with a cup of tea watching the world go by!

Of course, this Bavarian city is intriguing for its association with the Second World War, as the site of many pre-war Nazi rallies and, later, the war crimes trials.

What’s little known, however, is that Nuremberg also captivates visitors with its cobbled streets with classic half-timbered houses, an enchanting castle (rebuilt after wartime bombings) and many historic landmarks. These include the Church of Saint Lawrence, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the intricate Church of Our Lady, which features a working mechanical clock dating from 1506 and overlooks the bustling Hauptmarkt square, itself renowned for its intricate fountain resembling a Gothic church tower.

Amid all this splendour, spare a moment to taste Nuremberg’s famous gingerbread, perhaps stocking up with a packet to spice up the biscuit tin back home! Afterwards you return to the ship for your final dinner on board, perhaps selecting a local white from the wine list and, later, enjoying a coffee in the lounge with your travel companions while sharing memories of your exploration of Germany’s medieval heart.

You fly to Munich, where your comfortable coach transfer awaits to take you to your ship in Nuremberg and the beginning of your great Bavarian adventure.

Be welcomed aboard by the dedicated crew, taking in the air of anticipation and excitement as you explore the luxury surroundings that you will call home for the next seven days. Settle into your exceptionally well-equipped cabin, then get acquainted with your ship and your fellow cruisers while you look forward to a delicious first night dinner to start your cruise off in style.

Waking in the historic city of Nuremberg, excitement mounts as you enjoy your first breakfast. History buffs will find this Bavarian city intriguing for its association with the Second World War, as the site of many pre-war Nazi rallies and then, later, the International War Crimes Tribunal.

What’s little known, however, is that Nuremberg also captivates visitors with its cobbled streets with classic half-timbered houses, an enchanting castle (rebuilt after wartime bombings) and many historic landmarks. These include the Church of Saint Lawrence, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the intricate Church of Our Lady, which features a working mechanical clock dating from 1506 and overlooks the bustling Hauptmarkt square, itself renowned for its intricate fountain resembling a Gothic church tower.

Amid all this splendour, spare a moment to taste Nuremberg’s famous gingerbread and perhaps stock up with a packet to spice up the biscuit tin back home!

After a busy morning of exploration and discovery, we return to the ship and during lunch, we commence sailing through Germany’s rural heart towards our next destination, arriving in the early hours.

Another day brings another new view when you draw back the curtains in your cabin.

Bamberg is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful small towns in the whole of Europe, and UNESCO has declared it a World Heritage Site by way of confirmation. Planned by Emperor Heinrich II in the 11th century as a Franconian capital as grand as Rome, Bamberg sits on seven lush green hills, akin to its Italian inspiration.

Join the guided tour and see the historic old town and impressive multi-spired cathedral, although perhaps the most noticeable and intriguing landmark is Bamberg’s old town hall, which sits on an island in the middle of the burbling river, flanked by bridges either side. From here you can also see ‘Little Venice’ – a delightful cluster of former fishermen’s houses built along the waterfront, mostly dating from the Middle Ages.

During another splendid lunch on board, the ship departs for picturesque Ochsenfurt. Take the afternoon to enjoy the ship’s five-star facilities, while taking in the magnificent undulating landscape as we venture deeper into this beautifully scenic region. Indulge in afternoon tea and, perhaps, our chef’s special patisserie, while being sure to leave room for the evening’s dinner.

After a leisurely breakfast, we spend the morning exploring Ochsenfurt on a walking tour.

Nestled on the banks of the Main, with its quintessential half-timbered houses and ancient ramparts; it’s a joy to wander through the old town, stopping to admire the façade of the town hall with its impressive mechanical clock and a lovely 13th-century church with its strikingly colourful interior, before returning to the ship where lunch is served.

This afternoon we take the short drive to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a spectacular 16th-century town crowning a hill, with exceptional views over the meandering river Tauber below. Our drive takes us along the aptly named Romantic Road – a magically scenic route which weaves its way alongside a procession of folkloric scenery, medieval towns, lofty castles and grand palaces, so picture-perfect they could all serve as film sets.

Explore Rothenburg’s narrow, cobbled streets, lined with elegant and gabled half-timbered houses, surrounded by perfectly preserved medieval walls, before we return to our ship moored in Würzburg. You’ll have worked up an appetite, so reconvene with your fellow passengers for an aperitif in the bar before tonight’s excellent dinner is served. And after dinner, there's even more fun to be had as we enjoy Bavarian dance and songs performed on traditional instruments by a skilled trio.

Würzburg is quite a marvel, contrasting with the quaint towns and villages that you’ve encountered on your adventure so far.

This elegant Bavarian city, founded in the 10th century as the centre of the kingdom known as Franconia, sits resplendent and impressive on the banks of the Main. Neat blocks of grand pastel buildings are peppered with the spires and domes of the city’s many churches, chapels and cathedrals.

The jewel in Würzburg’s illustrious crown is the Residenz, a truly magnificent Baroque palace which whisks you back in time to a more romantic age. Originally conceived to rival the Palace of Versailles in scale, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features one of Germany’s most spectacularly ornate staircases and dozens of interconnecting rooms, adorned with gorgeous frescoes, priceless tapestries, sculptures and paintings. We enjoy a guided tour of the old town with some time at leisure, allowing you to soak up the ambience of this wonderful town.

One of the delights of river cruising is indulging in complete relaxation. As we slip our moorings later this afternoon, catch up on some reading in the lounge, book an appointment at the on-board hairdresser’s or simply watch the world float by.

Tonight, there’s another culinary highlight – the Chef’s Dinner, when the chef prepares his superb ‘signature’ dishes for you to enjoy in the splendid surroundings of the ship’s restaurant, with a chance to reflect on the fascinating places you have discovered, poignant stories you have heard and the new friends you have made.

Awaking refreshed, look out of your cabin window to find a complete change of scenery in Wertheim, where we’ll enjoy a morning tour. Wertheim is completely off the main tourist trail, making it a delightful surprise, all the better for its untouched ambience.

We pass the fishing boats riding at anchor while admiring the muted colours of the sage-green, pale lilac and buttercup-yellow houses opposite. A russet-walled 12th-century castle overlooks the Old Town, surveying the church spires, turrets and patchwork of multicoloured buildings below. There’s time to explore here and, as you wander the quaint and colourful market square, look out for the blink-and-miss-it Zobelhaus, a contender for the narrowest house in Germany.

In the afternoon, we pass under the famous red-brick bridge between Wertheim and Miltenberg, navigating the gentle meandering bends typical of the Main River. After lunch, you can learn more about the history of glassblowing and watch a fascinating demonstration of this historic craft, relax and take in the scenery or watch the riverside scenes slip by from the comfort of your sumptuous cabin, many of which have French balconies with splendid unhindered views.

We arrive in Miltenberg, a beautifully preserved medieval village whose labyrinth of winding alleys and lanes begs exploration. And so, this afternoon we do exactly that, as our local guide shows us the highlights of this charming destination.

Backed by dense emerald-green forest, this picturesque stop-off has something of the feel of a Brothers Grimm fairy tale, complete with a castle nestled into the lush tree-clad hillside. Admire the impressive gatehouse which stands like a proud guardian of the village, and wander across the charming marketplace, lined by traditional fachwerk buildings instantly recognisable by their grids of timber framing.

The story goes that locals were allowed free wood from the surrounding forests, hence the abundance of this architectural style. Highlights of this beautiful square include the trickling fountain, ornately carved from stone and complete with dancing cherubs, and the intricately detailed Gasthaus Zum Riesen, which claims to be Germany’s oldest tavern.

This evening you’ll be served another delectable dinner, and overnight we cruise towards Mainz.

Whether you decide to take breakfast in bed or set yourself up for the day at the plentiful buffet, afterwards you can enjoy a final morning of sailing. Find a relaxing seat in the lounge to take in the lovely views of lush woodland and fertile vineyards seamlessly idling by.

After another delicious lunch on board, spend the afternoon exploring bustling Mainz on our guided tour. Dominating its skyline is the colossal six-towered 12th-century cathedral – St. Martin's Dom – a pinnacle of German Romanesque architecture that houses a spectacular nave, many elaborate tombs and a peaceful colonnaded cloister.

Also unmissable is Saint Stephen’s Church, which features nine breathtaking stained-glass windows, created by the artist Marc Chagall, that bathe the interior in magical blue light. Book-lovers will appreciate the Gutenberg Museum, located in a gorgeous 17th-century building in Mainz’s Old Town, whose star attractions are two 1455 Gutenberg Bibles, among the first books ever printed.

Of course, Mainz is also at the heart of Germany’s winelands, so it’s a pleasure to seek out a traditional wine tavern in the pastel-painted, timber-crisscrossed buildings of the old town to sample a glass. If you prefer beer, the vaulted chambers of the Eisgrub-Bräu beer hall are a fine place for a mug of the local dark brew.

As evening approaches, why not enjoy an apéritif in the bar before choosing a table in the restaurant to enjoy the chef’s masterful creations for dinner?