Countries :
Netherlands
Germany
France
Switzerland
Highlight :
Picturesque half-timbered villages & romantic Middle Rhine
The Main, a jewel among Germany's rivers, travels through a landscape of distinct beauty and landmarks. Bordered by lush naturescapes, the river passes historic towns like Wertheim and Bamberg as well the major cities of Frankfurt, Würzburg and Mainz. Enjoy viewing the unique, colorful half-timbered houses of the region while sipping local wines or taking advantage of the lively shopping districts.
Marked by historical towns with unique personalities, this region along the Main delights visitors with rich backgrounds and rare architecture. The Upper Franconian town of Bamberg intrigues with stories of the prince-bishops of Bamberg and their residences. In Wertheim and Miltenberg, find beautifully preserved half-timbered houses that date to the 14th century and historic town centers begging to be explored.
Home to a strong wine industry, the Franconian region attracts connoisseurs looking for new tasting adventures. In Würzburg, discover the unique charm of Baroque and Rococo style architecture while exploring the many wine bars, wine cellars, and vineyards.
This European river experience takes you through a storied and versatile region. Passing through vast green spaces with nature at your door, meet historic towns like Wertheim, Bayreuth and Bamberg. Bejeweled with colorful half-timbered regional houses steeped in history, this region is also home to excellent wine varietals and thriving major cities Frankfurt and Würzburg.
The fifth largest city in Germany, Frankfurt has long been recognized as a transportation hub, carrying river passengers from all points to converge in this vibrant city. Its long history touches on royalty: it was once called the Coronation City. Today, Frankfurt is not only recognized for its culinary and art scenes, but is also considered one of Europe’s most important financial centers and home to the European Central Bank.
The quaint towns of Miltenberg and Wertheim share similar styles. In either place, you’ll have the chance to admire the beautifully preserved half-timbered houses that create a colorful, cheerful street scene and have been a part of German life since the 14th century.
Würzburg’s famous architecture represents the best of Baroque and Rococo styles. Strolling the city, you’ll encounter St. Kilian Cathedral and famous landmarks like the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Set in the heart of the Franconian wine region, the city offers countless wine bars, wine cellars and vineyards. Wine lovers can taste white varieties such as Silvaner, Müller-Thurgau and Bacchus or enjoy the German red varieties including Dornfelder, Pinot Noir and the rosé Rotling.
The Upper Franconian town of Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage site, delights visitors with its rich history and medieval design. Traditionally a residence of the bishops, the town’s atmosphere and stories of bishops captivate visitors from all over the globe. Enjoy the intrigue and mystery behind the building’s past.
Twice as long as the Panama Canal, the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal is a technological marvel connecting river traffic between the North Sea and Black Sea. Cruising this canal, opened in 1992, is truly a bucket-list experience. Calm, bucolic and surrounded by lush flora and fauna, this cruise affords a rare glimpse of a modern-day waterway set in ancient surroundings.
Main landscape and cultural strongholds.
Cruising the Main brings you close to a wealth of natural wonders, rare cultural encounters, and fascinating European histories. With multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites and natural landscapes filled with enchanting towns and vibrant cities, this region retains an international importance built upon centuries of commerce and the arts. Find your own foothold in this landscape and return home with treasured memories.