Koblenz
|RHINE
Irrepressible Marksburg Castle
Koblenz
|RHINE
Irrepressible Marksburg Castle
In the stunning Rhing Gorge, most of the 40 hill castles between Bingen and Koblenz were destroyed over the centuries or fell into a state of ruin. Only one escaped this fate. This exceptional excursion takes you to Braubach, where high above the town and Rhine River you will find one of the most beautiful castles in the Middle Rhine Valley. Marksburg Castle stands as the lone medieval fortification in its original form. The imposing fortress, built from the 13th to 15th centuries, consists of rings of walls, a keep, residential buildings, defensive towers, and bastions. Step inside and directly back to the Middle Ages as you explore the castle`s kitchen, great hall, bedchamber, chapel, armory, wine cellar, battlements, and more. Hear about its ties to Napoleon, its uses as a prison and a home for disabled soldiers, and its sale in 1900 to the German Castles Association for a mere 1,000 Goldmarks. Afterward, enjoy free time to enjoy panoramic views from the terrace or to peruse the souvenir shop before the return trip to your Riverside ship.
Koblenz
|RHINE
Koblenz Walk With Deutsches Eck & Christmas Market
Koblenz
|RHINE
Koblenz Walk With Deutsches Eck & Christmas Market
One of the oldest cities in Germany, Koblenz is truly something special. During the Advent season, though, it`s positively magical! Join an expert guide for a walking tour around the festively decorated historic district. See the town`s most important sights amid a twinkling sea of lights and learn its captivating history. Wind your way from the Town Hall fountain to the Deutsches Eck (German Corner), where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers converge. Also visit the traditional Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market), which takes place on seven squares of the historic Old Town, attracting people of all ages with its spellbinding atmosphere filled with inviting music, the city`s largest Advent calendar, wooden stalls selling hand-crafted gifts, and the tantalizing aromas of mulled wine, gingerbread, and freshly roasted nuts.
Frankfurt
Frankfurt City Tour, Main Tower & Christmas Market
Frankfurt
Frankfurt City Tour, Main Tower & Christmas Market
Mainhattan—it`s a nickname that bustling Frankfurt am Main deserves. More than 300 international credit institutions, the European Central Bank, and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange are all based here, creating one of Europe`s most important financial centers. In fact, the financial district`s towering skyscrapers shape the city skyline itself. This amazing excursion includes the highlights of Frankfurt, including its many striking modern and historical buildings. Then, arrive at the Main Tower, where you`ll ascend to the highest viewing platform in the city—656 feet (200 meters) high. Enjoy a bird`s-eye view Frankfurt and the entire Rhine-Main region. Finally, head to the festive city Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market), where a maze of traditional wooden huts offer everything from handcrafted gifts and decorations to mouthwatering local Christmastime specialties.
Mannheim
Mannheim at Christmas With City & Palace Tour
Mannheim
Mannheim at Christmas With City & Palace Tour
Situated where the Rhine and Neckar Rivers meet is Mannheim, nicknamed the Square City for its grid layout (unusual in Germany) and the City of Inventions as birthplace of the automobile, bicycle, tractor, and more. Embark on a guided walk to admire the landmark Wasserturm (water tower) and Karl Benz Monument, and to hear fascinating stories about Mannheim`s many innovations, how its industrial plants drove the war effort of WWI, and how its city center was completely destroyed during WWII air raids. Visit the imposing Mannheim Palace, one of the largest palace complexes in the world and the second-largest Baroque palace after Versailles. Original residence of the Prince-Electors, its facade stretches more than 1,312 feet (400 meters) and covers nearly 15 acres (6 hectares). As you investigate its magnificent interior, you`ll be whisked back to the 18th century, when lavish parties often echoed through the halls. Then, head out to the fantastic Friedrichsplatz Christmas market with its traditional stalls, jolly atmosphere, and inviting aromas of grilled sausage, roasted nuts, and palate-pleasing Glühwein (hot mulled wine).
Mannheim
Heidelberg Castle & City Tour
Mannheim
Heidelberg Castle & City Tour
Join a half-day trip to the legendary city of Heidelberg. Its picturesque red sandstone castle stands majestically over the Old Town and hilly Neckar River landscape below, attracting a million visitors each year from around the world. Following a comfortable coach ride, your expert guide will offer you a proper introduction to the region as you stroll along the river past the Old Bridge and up to Heidelberg Castle, a mishmash of architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance. Wander through the castle`s garden area and observation deck, and marvel at its famous Great Vat, a wine barrel so large (over 58,000 gallons/221,000 liters) it has stairway access to a dance floor on top! Afterward, head down to Old Town Heidelberg for a 30-minute orientation featuring the market square, late-Gothic Church of the Holy Spirit, triumphal Karls` Gate arch, and university that was founded in 1386! At the end of the tour, enjoy some free time to explore on your own.
Strasbourg
Strasbourg Panoramic Tour & Canal Cruise
Strasbourg
Strasbourg Panoramic Tour & Canal Cruise
A French city with a German accent, the Alsatian city of Strasbourg is one of Europe`s most stunning destinations. This exciting half-day excursion begins with a boat ride along the canals of the picture-perfect Petit France district. On the western end of Grand Île, the district is characterized by half-timbered houses and alleys named after the fishermen, millers, and tanners who once lived here, and is part of the Grand Île UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, head out on foot with an expert guide and discover more of the city`s treasures, including the lush greenery and beautiful gardens of Parc de l’Orangerie; the European Quarter, where the European Parliament, Council of Europe, and other international institutions are based; and the pink sandstone Strasbourg Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
Strasbourg
Strasbourg at Christmastime
Strasbourg
Strasbourg at Christmastime
A French city with a German accent, the Alsatian city of Strasbourg is one of Europe`s most stunning destinations. This exciting half-day excursion begins with a coach ride into the city center, past the Parc de l’Orangerie and the European Quarter, where the European Parliament, Council of Europe, and other international institutions are based. Leave the bus and stroll with a guide around the Grande Île. Closed to traffic during Advent, this area is particularly atmospheric with its Christkindelsmärik (Christmas Market), one of the oldest in Europe. Here, you`ll find beautifully decorated stands selling hand-crafted gifts, soul-warming mulled wine, and cheery Christmas beer. Pass Place Broglie to the pink sandstone Strasbourg Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, where you`ll learn about its thousand-year history and famous astronomical clock—and could opt to step inside and explore on your own. Then, follow your guide to the district where fishermen, millers, and tanners used to live and work. Today, the most beautiful restaurants and shops line the narrow streets with their gorgeous half-timbered buildings from the 16th and 17th centuries. Your adventure concludes with the chance to sample a typical Alsatian tarte flambée and a glass of wine before returning to the ship.
Speyer
Speyer Technology Museum
Speyer
Speyer Technology Museum
If it can get you from here...to there, the Technik Museum Speyer probably covers it! Spend 2 to 3 hours taking a deep, independent dive into the worlds of aircraft, vintage automobiles, motorcycles, historical fire engines, steam locomotives, ships and submarines, and space flight. Highlights include an authentic German Navy submarine, a Lufthansa Boeing 747 jumbo jet, an Antonov AN-22 (the largest series-produced propeller plane to date), and more. Also investigate the Russian Space Shuttle Buran, whose 2008 ocean voyage from Bahrain to Rotterdam and Rhine River trip by pontoon was truly incredible.
Koblenz
Night Watchman Tour of Koblenz
Koblenz
Night Watchman Tour of Koblenz
This whimsical tour whisks you back to 1870 Rhineland, which had fallen under Prussian rule. Shortly after the start of the Franco-Prussian War, the fortress of Koblenz and Ehrenbreitstein was besieged. Particular vigilance is required. Special care is taken by the military, police, and 10 night watchmen who patrol every night to ensure the safety of the citizens. As you join one on patrol around the Church of Our Lady, you`ll experience Koblenz from his unique historical perspective.
Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf Sights & Foodie Walk
Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf Sights & Foodie Walk
From your Riverside ship, head to the inviting cobblestone streets of Düsseldorf`s Old Town to work up your appetite during a guided walking tour. See striking medieval monuments and admire the important cultural and historical sights such as the Town Hall, St. Lambertus Church, the castle tower, and the birthplace of poet Heinrich Heine. Then, on to the promenade to see the city`s splendid Medienhafen (harbor), filled with Postermodern and Modern architecture, some of the city`s most popular restaurants, and the iconic telecommunications tower looming above it all. By now, you`re ready for the main event: a culinary exploration of typical Rhenish specialties. Visit the farmers market at Carlsplatz; the famous Düsseldorf mustard store and museum, where more than a dozen varieties of mustard are available for sampling; and the 19th-century Hinkel Bakery, where you can sample some of the more than 60 different types of bread.
Düsseldorf
Historical Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf
Historical Düsseldorf
Explore 730 years of history in just 2.5 hours during this interesting guided tour. Begin with the city`s founding by Count Adolf von Berg following the great Battle of Worringen in 1288, and meet the powerful rulers of the past: Jan Wellem, Wilhelm the Rich, Anna Maria Luisa de Medici—even Napoleon Bonaparte. Hear how the one-time small fishing village grew into an economic powerhouse, and pay a visit to Düsseldorf`s WWII Memorial to explore an original air raid shelter, learn about the SS headquarters here, and understand how the rise of National Socialism during the Nazi era impacted the people, especially the young.
Cologne
Cologne City Tour & Cathedral Visit
Cologne
Cologne City Tour & Cathedral Visit
Meet your expert guide at the ship and embark on a guided stroll through Cologne`s remarkable Old Town. The city has endured for more than 2,000 years, and during the tour you will visit a few of its many ancient markets—the hay market, old market, fish market, and butter market, as well as Great St. Martin Church, which has towered over the banks of the Rhine since the Middle Ages, and the Rhine Promenade, the perfect spot for breathtaking panoramic views. Also see the 900-year-old City Hall, the country`s oldest town hall still in use; Heinzelmännchen Fountain, which tells the story of the little people who did all the work at night so the people of Cologne could relax during the day; and, of course, the 1248 AD Gothic cathedral—the world`s tallest twin-spired church, symbol of Cologne, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hear about its damage during WWII and repairs that were completed in 1956, then enjoy free time to investigate its treasures, including the stunning stained glass, medieval bells, Shrine of the Three Magi, and more.
Cologne
TimeRide: Cologne City Tour for Time Travelers
Cologne
TimeRide: Cologne City Tour for Time Travelers
This extraordinary TimeRide tour opens up completely new perspectives of Cologne. Armed with mobile virtual reality glasses, you`ll become immersed in 360-degree scenes from Cologne`s distant past. Experience the Roman border town, medieval city, French and Prussian outpost, destruction during WWII, and other impressive past-to-present comparisons. With the help of your expert guide you`ll learn what is still visible and what is no longer there. For example, standing on the Domplatte, witness the construction of the cathedral in the 13th century—a tour you`ll never forget!
Gorinchem
Gorinchem Walking Tour & VIP Concert
Gorinchem
Gorinchem Walking Tour & VIP Concert
Begin at the impressive fortifications, a major stronghold in the Dutch Water Lines and the largest fully intact city walls in the country. Stroll along the ramparts past historical landmarks and admire the lovely view of the river. Then, on to the old harbour for a glimpse into Gorinchem’s nautical past. Along the way, hear about colorful characters like Hugo de Groot, who made a daring escape from Loevestein Castle, and Hendrick Hamel, whose adventures in Korea are legendary. Arrive at last at the Lutheran Hidden Church, which dates back to 1588 and provided a secret place of worship during the Reformation, when Catholic worship was forbidden. A special VIP organ concert completes your wonderful tour!
Rotterdam
Architectural Wonders of Rotterdam
Rotterdam
Architectural Wonders of Rotterdam
Enjoy a 4-hour scenic drive and walking tour of the lovely port city of Rotterdam. Led by an expert guide, learn how the destruction of WWII led to a Renaissance of reconstruction, inspiring one of the Netherlands` boldest periods of modern architecture. See the captivating cube houses by visionary architect Piet Blom, walk through the Old Port and pass the central shopping district, which is partially underground. See the few historical buildings that survived the war: the Post Office, City Hall, and St. Laurens Church. Another highlight is the impressive Market Hall, the first covered market in the Netherlands and a place where good food and unique living harmoniously combine in a spectacular arch.
Amsterdam
Canal Cruise, Old Merchants Canal House & Cheese Tasting
Amsterdam
Canal Cruise, Old Merchants Canal House & Cheese Tasting
Get an inside look at an authentic canal house on this exciting 3-hour excursion. Begin with a delightful cruise along the UNESCO World Heritage canals of Amsterdam to the Willet-Holthuysen Museum, built for Amsterdam`s mayor in 1685. Enter the fashionable Louis XIV-style former home and admire the period furnishings and artwork in its souterrain kitchen and garden, bel-etage with long hallway, top-floor bedroom, and French-inspired hortus (garden). Afterward, stroll to a nearby local establishment for a tasting of five different Dutch cheeses.
Amsterdam
Discover Amsterdam Canal Cruise & Rijksmuseum
Amsterdam
Discover Amsterdam Canal Cruise & Rijksmuseum
For centuries, Amsterdam has been celebrated as a center of art, and today, it is home to some of the world`s finest museums. This enriching half-day excursion includes time at one of the true greats as you visit the Rijksmuseum, the national museum of the Netherlands. Founded in 1798, the Rijksmuseum displays around 8,000 objects from its million-piece collection, and is dedicated to arts, crafts, and history from 1200 AD to modern times, including paintings by Vermeer, Hals, Rembrandt, and other masters. Afterward, head to the city`s waterways for a scenic cruise along its UNESCO World Heritage canals. Relax as you float past graceful merchant mansions, churches, and warehouses from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Krems
Stein Walking Tour & Apricot Schnapps Tasting
Krems
Stein Walking Tour & Apricot Schnapps Tasting
While the Old Town of Krems winds its way up into the hills, neighboring Stein an der Donau sits right on the river. The wealth of the former port town still impresses today with its richly decorated architectural treasures. Led by an expert guide, see the highlights such as the 11th-century Göttweigerhof, the St. John Nepomuk Monument, Baroque Town Hall, lovely 12th-century Parish Church, and more. Afterward, stop at the Bailoni distillery for a tasting of its famous apricot schnapps!
Passau
Traditional Christmas Celebration at a German Farm
Passau
Traditional Christmas Celebration at a German Farm
You won`t want to miss this incredible experience—it`s one you`ll talk about for years to come! Your excursion begins with a scenic walk through the crisp winter air along the banks of the Ilz River. Along the way, your entertaining and informative guide will regale you with stories about the Christmas traditions that have been observed for centuries in Germany and Bavaria. Next, arrive at a local farm, where the peaceful river ambiance and ruins of medieval Hals Castle create a fairytale setting. Here, a fun and festive celebration awaits, featuring a lively brass band, Christmas sing-along, authentic holiday snacks and drinks—and an appearance by a story-telling and gift-bearing special guest!
Melk
Magnificent Melk Abbey, Jewel of the Wachau
Melk
Magnificent Melk Abbey, Jewel of the Wachau
Today, a true must-see landmark awaits: resplendent Melk Abbey, one of Europe’s best examples of Baroque architecture. With origins as a Benedictine monastery dating back to 1089, today the monks still farm the land and continue to operate what is now the oldest school in Austria. Marvel at the views from the semi-circular terrace overlooking the Wachau Valley and river below. Then, head inside for a tour that includes the library, whose main hall boasts 16,000 volumes and a gorgeous frescoed ceiling; the iconic spiral staircase, a photographer’s dream; and the breathtaking abbey church.
Melk
Artstetten Castle, a Family Affair
Melk
Artstetten Castle, a Family Affair
Dating back to the 13th century, medieval Arstetten, a fortress-turned-castle, changed hands many times—until Napoleon’s father-in-law, Emperor Franz I, acquired it in 1823. At the time, it was just one of 14 castles he owned within a 12-mile (20-km) radius, but it became the one his family kept for generations. The estate eventually passed to his nephew, Franz Ferdinand, whose granddaughter and her family now live there year-round to tend to its preservation and run its forestry and agricultural operations. This enriching guided tour introduces you to the castle with its early modern conveniences such as an indoor bathroom, elevator, swimming pool, and more. You’ll also have time to investigate its fascinating Museum of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, whose assassination in 1914 launched WWI.
Vienna
Panoramic Vienna
Vienna
Panoramic Vienna
Your exploration of the City of Music begins with a panoramic bus tour into the heart of Vienna, passing imposing monuments and palaces. Along the route, hear captivating stories about the many historical figures who called Vienna home: Strauss, Schubert, Klimt, Freud, Sisi, Marie Antoinette, and others. At Hofburg Palace, follow your guide on a walk to St. Stephen`s Cathedral, where you’re free to further explore, do a little shopping, or relax at a café before returning to the ship.
Vienna
Imperial Schönbrunn Palace
Vienna
Imperial Schönbrunn Palace
Travel to Schönbrunn Palace, the opulent summer residence and hunting lodge of the Habsburgs, Austria’s imperial family. As you follow your guide from one stunningly decorated room to the next—including the Blue Chinese Salon, the Vieux Laque Room, and the Ceremonial Hall—immerse yourself in the world of Empress Maria Theresa, “Sisi,” and Emperor Franz Joseph I. Afterward, you might enjoy a walk through the Secret Garden, Labyrinth, or the arched Gloriette for incomparable views.
Budapest
Panoramic Budapest
Budapest
Panoramic Budapest
Hop aboard a comfortable coach and head out for a panoramic city tour through beautiful Budapest. Drive along Andrassy Boulevard and admire the statue of the Seven Magyar Chiefs and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during a photo stop at Heroes` Square. The highlight of the trip is an inside visit of the incomparable State Opera House, whose impressive neo-Renaissance façade is surpassed only by its grandiose red and gold interior and enormous chandelier. Afterward, your coach takes you to the Pest side of the Danube to see other great sights, like the Great Synagogue and Hungarian Parliament building.
Budapest
Dohány Synagogue & the Shoes on the Danube Bank
Budapest
Dohány Synagogue & the Shoes on the Danube Bank
Your tour begins with a short bus ride to the Great Synagogue, built in the Moorish style in 1854 and the second-largest synagogue in the world. Visit this impressive landmark with its twin onion-domed towers, built on the site of the childhood home of Theodor Herzl, father of modern political Zionism. The Hungarian Jewish Museum is also housed here, with exhibits focusing on the history of the Hungarian Holocaust. Afterward, walk through the old Jewish quarter, stop for refreshments, and then pause at the poignant Shoes on the Danube Promenade—a trail of metal shoes on the riverbank to commemorate the thousands executed along the Danube during WWII.
Budapest
Gödöllő - Sissi`s Palace
Budapest
Gödöllő - Sissi`s Palace
A peaceful town in Pest County, Gödöllo is known for its culture and historical legacy. Here, you’ll encounter its gorgeous 18th-century castle, which was purchased by the Hungarian state in 1867 as a coronation gift for Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth (“Sisi”). It became the couple’s summer home and the empress’s favorite palace. During your guided tour, stroll through the exquisite rooms and gardens, and hear fascinating stories about the life of Sisi, who was adored by Hungarians as “their” queen.
Budapest
Budapest Christmas Market
Budapest
Budapest Christmas Market
Join a local guide for a walk to Vörösmarty tér, a large public square on the northern end of Váci utca, one of the city’s most famous pedestrian streets. Here, you’ll discover one of Budapest’s stunning Christmas Markets. Marvel at the enormous Christmas tree and festive decorations as you’re drawn in by the tantalizing aromas of roasted chestnuts, fresh Hungarian chimney cake, and hot mulled wine. Your guide will provide a brief overview of the local traditions and specialties, then you’ll have time to wander at your own pace among the stalls filled with beautiful trinkets and gifts.
Bratislava
Magical Bratislava
Bratislava
Magical Bratislava
Meet an expert guide right as you disembark your ship and head out for a leisurely walk through Bratislava, capital of Slovakia. The striking castle, once the seat of Hungary’s king, will immediately greet you from its hilltop vantagepoint. Explore the charming Old Town, including the Main Square, the Old Opera House, St. Martin’s Cathedral, Michael’s Gate, and more. Also enjoy an inside visit of the magnificent neoclassical Primate’s Palace; meet Cumil the Sewer Worker, the city’s unofficial mascot; and watch for the cannonballs that remain lodged in several of the city’s historic buildings—the calling card of Napoleon’s army when they bombarded the city for 3 days in 1809.
Bratislava
Modern Art at the Danubiana Museum
Bratislava
Modern Art at the Danubiana Museum
Built to resemble a Roman galley in the shallow waters of a river, the unique Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum is a work of art itself. Join an expert guide and step inside the stunning gallery with its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the river—and discover a wide assortment of pieces created by leading international artists. At the end of the tour, enjoy free time to check out more than 3 dozen magnificent sculptures in the fantastic 2-acre (.8-hectare) sculpture garden.
Bratislava
Jewish Bratislava
Bratislava
Jewish Bratislava
Accompanied by an expert guide, drive to Bratislava Castle and visit the Chatam Sofer Memorial at the foot of Castle Hill. This marks the only remaining part of a centuries-old Jewish cemetery where prominent rabbis and scholars were buried. Although it was destroyed in 1943, you’ll hear about its careful restoration in 2000 according to Jewish law—and how today it is visited by Orthodox pilgrims from around the world. Afterward, there’s time to walk through the store- and café-lined streets of the Old Town.
Linz
Christmas in Mozart’s Salzburg
Linz
Christmas in Mozart’s Salzburg
Travel in comfort by coach to historic Salzburg, which glitters like a snow globe during the Advent season! Led by an expert guide, see Salzburg Cathedral, where Mozart was appointed organist; the Old Market Square; and the Getreidegasse, Mozart`s birthplace and home. Then, the Christmas Market beckons with special must-try treats, including the city’s famous Nockerln (dessert soufflé). Enjoy the atmosphere as you wander among the stalls in search of the perfect Christmas gifts!
Linz
Christmas in Mozart’s Salzburg
Linz
Christmas in Mozart’s Salzburg
Travel in comfort by coach to historic Salzburg, which glitters like a snow globe during the Advent season! Led by an expert guide, see Salzburg Cathedral, where Mozart was appointed organist; the Old Market Square; and the Getreidegasse, Mozart`s birthplace and home. Step inside and learn how he lived and composed here—then, the Christmas Market beckons with special must-try treats, including the city’s famous Nockerln (dessert soufflé). Enjoy the atmosphere as you wander among the stalls in search of the perfect Christmas gifts!
Linz
Linz City Walk With Cathedral Visit
Linz
Linz City Walk With Cathedral Visit
Follow your local guide into the heart of Old Town Linz, a European Capital of Culture, and see the highlights, including the Feichtinger House with its famous Glockenspiel. Then, visit the neo-Gothic Mariendom (New Cathedral) with its impressive stained-glass windows and 20,000-person seating capacity. The church is the largest but not the tallest in Austria due to a law at the time preventing any building from exceeding the height of St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna.
Krems
Wachau Wine Experience with Krems Christmas Market
Krems
Wachau Wine Experience with Krems Christmas Market
Embark on a delightful journey into the world of wine at the Sandgrube 13 wine experience. This fun and educational adventure includes an 8-station trail where you can learn about the renowned wines of the Wachau region. Start with a short walk through the vineyards, then enjoy a captivating 4D movie showcasing the region`s wines, flora, and fauna. Discover the intriguing holograms in the Wine Universe exhibit, and more. Conclude your visit with a wine tasting session in the wine cellar—cheers! Afterwards, return to Krems and explore the local Christmas Market. Immerse yourself in local traditions and enjoy a glass of gluhwein before heading back to the ship.
Passau
Passau Walk and A Taste of Bavaria
Passau
Passau Walk and A Taste of Bavaria
Welcome to 2,500-year-old Passau, where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers meet. Join a local guide and set off on foot through the historic district, where people settled as early as the Neolithic Age. See the city`s most famous sights as you learn about its captivating past, legends, and lore, including its ties to the Romans and powerful Prince-Bishop rulers. Traverse the narrow cobblestone streets, passing the landmark Town Hall, whose façade is an art masterpiece. Don`t miss the highwater marks that at a glance tell the story of Passau`s frequent flooding events. Continue to the Baroque St. Stephen’s Cathedral, dating to 1688 and home to magnificent, green-domed towers and one of the largest organs in the world. Finally, relax and toast your wonderful Riverside cruise with a frothy mug of refreshing Bavarian beer. Prost!
NOTE: Guests must be at least 16 years old to participate in the beer sampling.
Vienna
Discover Vienna With Spanish Riding School Visit
Vienna
Discover Vienna With Spanish Riding School Visit
Begin with a panoramic tour through the heart of Vienna, where imposing historical architecture lines almost every street. Learn about the many famous figures who called the city home: Strauss, Schubert, Klimt, Freud, Sisi, Marie Antoinette, and others. From Hofburg Palace, follow your guide on foot to the Spanish Riding School, where you`ll be captivated by the horses’ morning exercise routine and training to refine their intricate movements. Afterward, walk along the popular Graben shopping street, stopping for photos of St. Stephen`s Cathedral before heading back to your ship.
Rüdesheim
Music & Sightseeing, the Rüdesheim Way
Rüdesheim
Music & Sightseeing, the Rüdesheim Way
Hop aboard the Winzerexpress (Wine Growers Express), the most relaxed and informative way to explore the highlights of Rüdesheim. From the pier, embark the mini train for a narrated introduction to the charms of the Rhine Valley. Admire the vineyards, impressive Niederwald Monument, and the Abbey of St. Hildegarde, a World Heritage Site founded in 1165. Then, chug into town and disembark at the famed Drosselgasse with its wine taverns, half-timber houses, and festive ambiance. Arriving at Siegfried’s, get ready for a music experience like no other! Housed in a 15th-century knight`s residence with a Gothic chapel and fresco-painted rooms, more than three centuries of musical curiosities await. Each lovingly restored by Siegfried Wendel and his family, colorful instruments, contraptions, and characters of every shape and size spring into action—whirring, spinning, and filling the space with a carnival-like atmosphere. See a music-playing chair, a pistol graced with a singing bird, an orchestration the size of a minibus, and more! At a time when music comes easily with the push of a button, you’ll be amazed by the monumental effort past generations invested to elevate their music experience!
Speyer
Speyer Discovery & Taste of German Christmas
Speyer
Speyer Discovery & Taste of German Christmas
Situated on the left bank of the Rhine, Speyer was founded by the Romans and is one of Germany`s oldest cities. This impressive Christmas Day walking tour shows you the 2000-year-old venerable imperial city`s most important sights—all dressed up and decorated for the holidays! Investigate the thousand-year-old UNESCO World Heritage cathedral, the largest preserved Romanesque cathedral in the world and final resting place of many German emperors and kings. Also see the Baroque Rathaus (Town Hall) and enjoy the entertaining historical anecdotes your guide will share with you. Your experience continues back on your ship, where a tasting awaits of several varieties of Glühwein (hot mulled wine) and freshly baked German Brezeln (pretzels)!
Kinderdijk
Kinderdijk
Architectural Wonders of Rotterdam
Kinderdijk
Kinderdijk
Windmills of Kinderdijk