While it may not command the attention and crowds that the Rhine and Danube do, the Main River – flowing through the southern part of Germany – is critically important to the transportation, tourism and cultural heritage of the regions it passes through. It also beckons travelers looking for a more intimate, leisurely, off-the-beaten-path cruising experience by offering its own unique charm and allure. Let’s take a look at just a few of the highlights cruisers can expect on a voyage along the sparkling Main.
Scenery and serenity
Unlike its bustling counterparts, the Main invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in its tranquil waters, enchanting landscapes, centuries-old castles, majestic cathedrals, and fortified towns steeped in history.
Rhine-Main-Danube Canal
Dating back to 793, when Charlemagne wanted to connect the North and Black seas, the construction of the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal, completed in 1992, is credited with making modern day river cruising possible.
Charming towns along the Main
The Main River is lined with quintessential towns that exude old-world charm and cultural heritage – making each stop along our cruises an opportunity for you to discover and connect more closely with this incredible region. Favorites include:
Würzburg
The gateway to Germany’s Romantic Road, Würzburg is nestled amidst the scenic vineyards of Franconia. Its Baroque and Rococo architecture and historic cobblestone streets invite you to wander back in time as you explore.
Bamberg
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, often referred to as the “Franconian Rome,” Bamberg is steeped in medieval splendor and encircled by Europe’s largest intact wall. Don’t miss out on trying its famous smoked beer while you’re there!
Nürnberg
The second-largest city in Bavaria, Nürnberg is home to a number of historic landmarks, including its walled Old Town, imperial castle, and underground tunnels originally built for beer storage and later used as air raid bunkers during wartime.
