Europe’s Rivers & Castles
Resort: | Europe's Rivers and Castles |
Operator: | AMA Waterways |
Destination: | Czech Republic |
Price From: | Contact for latest offers |
OverviewFrom the meandering Main to the UNESCO-designated Upper Middle Rhine Valley with its multitude of castles dotting its shores to the vineyard-clad hills of the Moselle, enjoy Europe at its most picturesque. Let the storybook villagesWertheim, Cochem and Zellcaptivate you; and Rothenburg, located on the Romantic Road enchant you. Marvel at the world’s largest ceiling fresco in the Wrzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and the beautiful Chagall windows while in Mainz. Savor the many flavors of Germany with a chance to sample the world-famous wines of the Rheingau, the hearty smoked beer of Bamberg and Rdesheims famed coffee. All along the way, gain an intimate understanding of the history and culture of the places you visit. ItineraryDay 1 – NuremburgBoard the ship in Nuremberg for your Europes Rivers & Castles cruise. (D) Day 2 – BambergBamberg has been referred to as Franconian Rome as, like Rome, it was built on seven hillsbut in Bamberg, a church graces each one. Bambergs medieval and Baroque architecture has withstood the test of time and, as such, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join a guided walking tour of this medieval gem where youll see its cathedral, Old Town Hall and elegant old mansions, and afterwards, indulge in the towns famous smoked beer, Rauchbier. Alternatively, enjoy a bike tour through Bamberg and follow your knowledgeable guide along the river to the enchanting winemaking town of Eltmann. (B,L,D) Day 3 – WurzburgGo on a full-day excursion to Rothenburg, Germanys best-preserved walled town located on the Romantic Road. For those not going to Rothenburg, enjoy a city tour of Wrzburg, a bursting with Baroque splendor. Or visit Wrzburgs Baroque Residenz Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features an opulent interior, including a grand fresco by Tiepolo. As an alternative to the walking tour and the palace visit, the more active guest may choose to venture high above the town for a hike to Marienberg Fortress, which dominates the city. (B,L,D) Day 4 – WertheimWertheims old town center still features half-timbered houses and the Gothic architecture of the Stiftskirche, its oldest Protestant church. You may either join a guided walking tour through the historic city center or learn the art of pretzel making with a visit to a local bakery. For those seeking a more active adventure, take a scenic bike ride through the Main River Valley or hike high above the town for a visit to the castle, one of the most picturesque ruins in Germany. (B,L,D) Day 5 – Rudesheim, Rhine Gorge & LahntseinArrive in Rdesheim, where you can visit Siegfrieds Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, or take a ride over the vineyards of Rdesheim in a gondola to the Niederwald Monument, and then afterwards be treated to a wine tasting. You may also hike through a Rdesheim vineyard. Another choice today is to take a guided bike tour along the Rhine Valley, riding between the Rheingau hills and the Rhine River. Later in the day, set sail towards Lahnstein through the Rhine River Gorge, famous for its beautiful and imposing castles. Cap the day off with a visit to Lahneck Castle. (B,L,D) Day 6 – Cochem & ZellWake up in fairytale Cochem and visit the Reichsburg Castle followed by a walking tour. As an alternative, visit one of Europes oldest working mustard mills where you will sample Cochems famous mustard. You may also opt to take a guided bike tour along the captivating Moselle River or a hike to Reichsburg Castle. Later, cruise to Zell, famous for its Riesling and the well-known arched black cat icon, often seen on the labels of local German wines. Experience the hospitality of the citizens of Zell, including the local Wine Queen and Mayor, at an exclusive wine festival where youll sample local wines, sausages and more. (B,L,D) Day 7 – TrierEnjoy a scenic cruise along the Moselle to Trier, Germanys oldest city, renowned for its rich ancient Roman past, and referred to as the Rome of the North or Second Rome as it has impressive Roman relics and nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Join a guided tour of the city, including the old Roman amphitheater, Roman Baths and Basilica of Constantine. Alternatively, go in search of the secrets of the Porta Nigra Gate, dating back to 180 A.D., on a tour that takes you back to a time when Rome ruled the world from the Emperors seat in Trier. You also have the choice of a bike tour through the historic city center and along the Moselle River; or hike high above Trier to Petrisberg. (B,L,D) Day 8 – LuxembourgBid au revoir to Luxembourg as you prepare for your journey home. |