Christmas in the Heart of Germany – Prague to Frankfurt

Itinerary Details

Day 1 Arrive in Prague, Czech Republic

Welcome to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. This fascinating city straddles the Vltava River with domes, cupolas, spires, and pinnacles highlighting its skyline.

Day 2 Prague

Prague is a 1,200-year-old city preserved in time. See its best-known treasures, such as the Old Towns Astronomical Clock, built in 1410 and once the envy of all of Europe; HRADCANY CASTLE GROUNDS; St. Vitus Cathedral; and the Charles Bridge, the oldest bridge in Prague. Browse the Christmas markets, where rows of brightly decorated wooden huts sell Christmas tree ornaments, wooden toys, and Czech handicrafts. Get a little inner warmth with a cup of svarene vino (hot mulled wine) and a traditional hot sausage. The beautifully decorated tree in the Old Town is an impressive sight. (B)

Day 3 PragueNuremberg, Germany (Embarkation)

After lunch, drive to Nuremberg to embark your cruise vessel. Before dinner, meet your crew for a welcome reception. (B, D)

Day 4 Nuremberg

Although 90% of Nurembergs Old Town suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it has been restored to the glory it once knew as the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire. Choose either a GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOUR and marvel at this thousand-year-old citys medieval fortifications, gothic churches, and the Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle), or join a more specialized NUREMBERG RALLY GROUNDS tour. The Old Town is illuminated with festive lights and decorations, and the Christmas market is one of the most famous in the world. Youll find 200 stalls offering traditional wares, including Nuremberg Lebkuchen (spicy gingerbread), baked goods and sweets, Christmas decorations, ornaments, and more. (B, L, D)

Day 5 Bamberg

In the early morning hours, arrive in medieval Bamberg, former residence of one of Germanys most powerful imperial dynasties. Your GUIDED WALKING TOUR takes in its historic centre, including the great 13th-century Romanesque cathedral and the fascinating Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall)built on an island in the middle of the Regnitz River when the bishop refused to give the townspeople land for a town hall! At this time of year, especially interesting are the nativity scenes built by local residents and exhibited throughout the town. Enjoy the Christmas market, where, in addition to candles and decorations, youll find many regional delicacies, like gingerbread and nut bread. Rejoin your ship in time for lunch. This afternoon, cruise along the Main River to Wrzburg, and attend a fascinating ON-BOARD LECTURE to learn more about the European Christmas traditions. (B, L, D)

Day 6 Wrzburg

Known as the Pearl of the Romantic Road, Wrzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. The city makes an immediate impression with imposing Fortress Marienberg perched above town and the 15th-century Alte Mainbrucke (Old Main Bridge). On your included GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOUR, visit the magnificent baroque BISHOPS RESIDENZ, home to the largest ceiling fresco ever painted. This afternoon you are free to explore on your ownmaybe visit the Christmas markets or join an optional excursion to medieval Rothenburg. Be sure to try a Schneeball (snowball), a local speciality not at all suitable for a diet! (B, L, D)

Day 7 Miltenberg

Tucked away behind medieval defensive walls and towered gates, the picturesque Bavarian village of Miltenberg is a cultural gem on the banks of the Main River. This afternoons GUIDED WALK will acquaint you with the towns delightful Marktplatz (market square), which centres around a Renaissance-era fountain and features striking half-timbered buildings, cobblestone lanes, and one of the oldest inns in Germany, Haus zum Riesen (the giants house) and the gothic splendour of the Merchant Hall. Depart for Frankfurt before dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 8 Frankfurt (Disembarkation)

Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

NOTE:
Flights out of Frankfurt should not leave before 8:30 am.
(B)