Discover Germany with Viking River Cruises Part 1
Luxury river cruise company, Viking, provide exclusive, unrivalled tours along Europes waterways. Not only will you get to experience the highlights of every destination, but also their knowledgeable staff will ensure you get a real insight into the culture of the local area. Want to know where you can get the best pastries in Frankfurt, or sample the most delicious cheese in Heidelberg? Our travel partner, Viking River Cruises, will have the answer. In this post were going to look at the destinations of just one of the German river cruise routes theyre offering this
year.
Famous for being the place where German literary giant, Goethe, was born, a fascinating time can be had at both Goethes birthplace and the various art museums here. However, if you enjoy walking in the great outdoors, there are few cities, whose parks rival the variety Frankfurt can offer.
Among the most popular are the landscaped Chinese Garden, the Nizza Mediterranean Park and the Palm Garden with its plethora of sub tropical plants.
Heidelbergs historic university with its celebrated alumni is one of the big highlights on a tour of the city of Heidelberg. Another, is a trip to the 12th century Heidelberg castle, which sits high on a hill, surrounded by forest. This castle was considered so beautiful during the 17th century, it was often referred to as the 8th wonder of the world.There will also be time to explore the stalls of the town market and try a local delicacy, such as a chocolate Heidelberg Kiss. If you fancy getting to know anyone else in the cafe, while you enjoy your kiss, you could indulge in the tradition of ordering a kiss for the person who caught your eye!
Wurzburg and Rothenburg in Bavaria
Bavaria is a charming German province. In Wurzburg, the first thing on everyones to do list should be a trip to the baroque palace; the Bishops Residenz and its Court Garden. Following this, there are plenty of pretty churches and chapels to explore as well as the cathedral and the fortress Marienberg. Try local snowball pastry the ‘Schneeball while youre there. You wont be disappointed!
Next up is Rothenburg, which has a museum dedicated to celebrating Christmas. Its open all year round. There are many distinctive gates and towers in this town. Upon taking a walking tour of the different spires its easy to see how the town of Rothenburg became a symbol of German
romanticism.
Festive fun in Germanys Christmas Markets
Germany is renowned for having exceptional Christmas markets where you can sip mulled wine as you browse the many festive stalls and their seasonal wares. Baumberg has a great Christmas market and the streets are lined with nativity scenes. However, one of the biggest markets can be found in Nuremberg.
Under the mighty 14th century Frauenkirche on the Main Market Square, you can try the local lebkuchen (gingerbread) and buy a huge number of unique gifts. Other sights in Nuremberg you simply must see while youre there, include the Roman Imperial Castle, the painter, Albrecht Durers house and the Weissgerbergasse which is a street full of elegant, historical houses.
Viking River Cruises offer a number of different routes through Germany and Europe. Weve outlined a popular schedule here, but please have a look at part 2 for more details on another favourite German river cruise. If you have any questions, please dont hesitate to get in touch with the Aspen Travel team. We’ve been booking Vikings river cruises for many years and will be able to supply you with any information you might need.
