From Wurzburg to Bamberg, discover the highlights of a Main river cruise.
The Main is the longest river located entirely in Germany, so it’s no wonder its banks are packed full of sights – from well-known cities like Frankfurt to lesser-known spots such as the Medieval town of Wertheim. The river winds its way westerly, until it meets with the romantic Rhine River in the heart of Germany’s wine region. Hop on one of our TUI River Cruises, which sails along this German gem, and you’ll tick off all of the above and more. We’re talking crumbling castles, impressive palaces and ancient cathedrals. Sound right up your street? Read on for our top highlights of a Main river cruise...
Then, check out our best Europe river cruise deals
These are the big-hitting landmarks that you can’t miss on a cruise along the Main…
This square – fringed with half-timbered houses – looks like it belongs to an off-the-grid village, not a big, bustling city. Its gabled buildings have been painstakingly restored after World War Two.
This UNESCO-listed palace is the city’s pride and joy. As well as its grand Baroque exterior, there’s an impressive staircase inside, which zigzags underneath the world’s largest fresco.
THE ROMANTIC ROAD, MOTTINGEN
This scenic road winds its way through some of Bavaria’s most picturesque landscapes. Spot everything from hillside castles to teeny Bavarian villages along this photo-ready route.
You might not have heard of these under-the-radar places, but you won’t want to miss them…
The whole of Bamberg’s terracotta-topped old town’s protected by UNESCO. This covers Medieval churches, the timber-framed town hall, a showy palace and a cute fisherman’s quarter.
This fairy-tale village – with its half-timbered houses and Medieval main square – looks as if it’s been plucked straight out of a story book. Head to the Rothenberg Castle to get sweeping views of Tauber valley.
Your taste buds will thank you for a trip here…
SCHAUFELE, WURZBURG
Wurzburg’s in the Franconian region, which is famous for its wines and beers. Even the signature schaufele – baked pork shoulders – is usually smothered in local lager.
FRANKFURT, GERMANY
This bustling city it packed with restaurants where you can try traditional fare. Get stuck into a Frankfurter sausage before nibbling on lebkuchen – Germany’s trademark gingerbread-style snack.
Make sure to snap a photo for the album at these scenic spots…
This red-stone castle might have been partly destroyed by a 17th-century explosion, but its ruins still make the perfect lookout point. You can see around the river bend and over houses and hillsides.
Home to extensive gardens – dotted with fountains and sculptures – and intricately decorated rooms, including the orangery, this 17th-century Baroque palace is camera ready.
Prepare for your trip with these tips, so you can make the most of your holiday…
Order a locally brewed Faust beer at Zum Riesen in Miltenberg. This historic hotel is one of Germany’s oldest, and everyone from Napoleon to Elvis Presley has signed in over the years.
In Germany, most shops are shut on Sundays so just take this into account when you’re planning your souvenir shopping.
Want to discover all of the Main’s best bits? Join TUI River Cruises’ Marvels of the Main itinerary. This seven-night trip will take you to Pinterest-pretty villages, grand palaces and big cities. Age-old breweries, crumbling castles and ancient churches are all on the cards here, too.
Ready to go on a river cruise?
Check out our full range of river cruises on the Rhine, Moselle, Main, Danube and Dutch & Belgian Waterways. Plus, get some more inspiration with our best European river cruises and highlights of a Moselle river cruise.
Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.
Author: Jessica Houtby
Last updated: 08.08.2019
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