Grand European Tour

Imagine 15 magical days along the Danube, Main and Rhine Rivers.  From the engineering marvel of the Main-Danube Canal to the picturesque vineyards of Austria’s Wachau Valley, from Germany’s fairy-tale castles to Holland’s windmill-studded tulip fields, this epic voyage presents the highlights of Hungary, Austria, Germany and Holland.  Guests who choose this voyage soon see why it is one of the most popular river cruises in Europe.

Let the pictures speak for themselves.

Call me for more information about this Grand European Tour at 919.708.8217

#river cruises

 

 

Romantic Danube – ON SALE

ROMANTIC DANUBE

During this 8-day journey, encounter the grand cities and quaint villages along the celebrated Danube River. Explore both sides of Hungary’s capital, traditional “Buda” and more cosmopolitan “Pest”, and from Fishermen’s Bastion see how the river divides this fascinating city. Experience Vienna’s imperial architecture and gracious culture, and tour riverside towns in Austria’s Wachau Valley. Explore a baroque cathedral and stroll cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses. Savor the tastes of authentic dishes, learn about local legends, and understand why Strauss immortalized the “Blue Danube” in his famous melody. An added feature on this cruise; we are going during the European Christmas Markets.  We will get double the enjoyment!

 

DAY 1 | BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

Welcome to Budapest, capital of Hungary. Transfer to your ship from the airport.* After boarding, the afternoon is yours to relax or do a bit of exploring; if your arrival schedule permits, join an organized walk to Budapest’s famous covered market in the three-story Great Market Hall established in 1897. Return to your ship for a traditional Hungarian dinner. (D)

 

DAY 2 | BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

Your morning begins with a panoramic tour of the Pest side of the city. Journey along Andrássy Avenue and see the 19th- and 20th-century mansions, National Opera House, Parliament Building and Chain Bridge. Stop in Heroes’ Square to learn more about Hungarian history, then cross the Danube to Buda’s Castle District. Walk up the hill to Fishermen’s Bastion and Matthias Church; enjoy brilliant views. Rejoin your ship in Visegrád for lunch as we cruise along the scenic Danube River. Enjoy a midafternoon Viennese coffee workshop, complete with apple strudel. (B, L, D)

DAY 3 | VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Today we tour the Austrian capital of Vienna. Ride along the Ringstrasse, which replaced the city walls in the mid-19th century. See some of the city’s baroque architecture, including the world-famous Opera House, St. Stephan’s Cathedral and Hofburg Palace. Return to your ship for lunch. The rest of the day is yours to further explore. As always, your Program Director can help you plan your free time. Or you may take an optional tour to Schönbrunn Palace, the “Versailles of Vienna,” erected in 1778 and graced by a number of formal gardens, Grecian statuary, the world’s oldest zoo and Roman ruins. After dinner, relax or enjoy an optional classical concert. (B, L, D)

 

DAY 4 | MELK, AUSTRIA

After breakfast, sail through the captivating Wachau Valley to the Benedictine abbey at Melk, and join a guided tour of the ornate interior of this baroque architectural jewel. See its elaborate frescoes and admire the library’s extensive collection of medieval manuscripts; then enjoy the garden courtyard and the terrace’s Wachau Valley views. Rejoin your ship for dinner and leisurely cruising along the Danube. Taste some local Austrian specialties as you spot attractive riverside towns and castle ruins along the way. (B, L, D)

 

DAY 5 | PASSAU, GERMANY

Arrive this morning in Passau, at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz and Danube Rivers. Your guided walk along the town’s narrow streets takes you through Old Town and past traditional patrician houses. You’ll see the New Bishop’s Residence and visit the impressive baroque St. Stephen’s Cathedral with its ornate interior. Inside, you are treated to a special concert played on the 17,000-pipe organ, considered Europe’s largest church organ.† Enjoy lunch aboard your ship, and return to the city for further exploration on your own before departing. We cruise through the night. (B, L, D)

 

DAY 6 | REGENSBURG, GERMANY

After breakfast, meet your guide dockside for a walking tour through the scenic town of Regensburg, considered one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. See one of the largest groupings of 13th- and 14th-century church spires, towers and patrician houses north of the Alps. You also encounter the 12th-century Old Stone Bridge, St. Peter’s Cathedral and a number of idyllic courtyards. Take time to stroll the streets, shop or visit Germany’s oldest restaurant, the Alte Würstküche. Lunch is served aboard your ship.

This afternoon, enjoy scenic cruising along the Danube River, or take an optional Danube Narrows excursion. Travel by road to Kelheim and board a ferryboat to explore the 400-foot chalk cliffs and dramatic scenery of the Danube Narrows. Visit Weltenburg Abbey*, renowned for the dark ale brewed here by monks since 1050, then rejoin your ship in Kelheim in time for dinner. (B, L, D)

DAY 7 | MAIN–DANUBE CANAL & NUREMBERG, GERMANY

Very early this morning, we sail through the locks that comprise the Main–Danube Canal, an engineering marvel that stretches 106 miles from Bamberg on the Main River to Kelheim on the Danube. It began as Charlemagne’s dream in 793 and was completed in 1992 with 16 locks that raise the water level 1,332 feet. Today, it enables river travel from the North Sea to the Black Sea.

Arrive in Nuremberg, Bavaria’s second largest city, around lunchtime. Afterward, your city tour features Zeppelin Field, the former Nazi parade grounds, and the Palace of Justice, the venerable vestige of the Nuremberg Trials; or, you can join an optional World War II tour of the illuminating Documentation Center Museum. You have a brief stop at the main courthouse before returning to Old Town, enclosed within ancient city walls.

Your tour comes to a close with a walk from the imperial palace grounds, past the Albrecht Dürer House and on to the Main Market Square with its elaborate Gothic fountain. Afterward you have some time on your own to explore. Your ship remains docked overnight. (B, L, D)

DAY 8 | NUREMBERG, GERMANY

After breakfast, disembark and proceed to the airport for your return flight.* Or, extend your journey to spend 2 additional nights in Nuremberg or experience another country with 3 nights in Prague, Czech Republic, including a tour of Old Town and Prague Castle. (B)

The following meals are included: B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner

* Airport meet & greet transfers included when air is purchased from Viking River Cruises

** Romantic Danube Cruise is on sale through February 28, 2015.

Tour date November 27, 2015

French Balcony Cabin: From $2456 per person

Round Trip Airfare: RDU $797 per person

Call me at 919.708.8217 to book this before the 28th.

Cities of Light River Cruise

CITIES OF LIGHT

This 12-day journey includes two nights each in two of Europe’s most glorious cities, Paris and Prague, plus a scenic river cruise along the Moselle, Rhine and Main Rivers. Drink in the picturesque landscape of vineyard-clad hillsides and sample fine German appellations in the villages of this famous wine-producing region. Discover the romance of Paris and its many historic landmarks. And fall in love with the graceful architecture of Prague, home to countless spires and a vibrant cultural scene.

DAY 1 | PARIS, FRANCE

Arrive in Paris, the romantic capital of France. Transfer from the Charles de Gaulle airport to your hotel for a 2-night stay.* After check-in, enjoy free time to explore this exciting city, or join our “welcome walk” to stretch your legs and get oriented.

DAY 2 | PARIS, FRANCE

Today’s tour begins with a drive along the Champs-Élysées, past the Arc de Triomphe to the world-famous Louvre. The remainder of the day is yours to experience more of this timeless city: visit a museum, explore Montmartre or take a moonlit cruise along the Seine River. The banks of the Seine, with their graceful bridges and unrivaled city views, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As always, your Program Director can help you plan your free time. (B)

DAY 3 | LUXEMBOURG, LUXEMBOURG

Today, visit the Luxembourg American Cemetery and pay homage to the many Americans who lost their lives during the WWII Battle of the Bulge. See the city of Luxembourg on a guided tour, then you’ll continue on to Trier and embark your ship. Dinner is served aboard. (B, D)

DAY 4 | TRIER & BERNKASTEL, GERMANY

Enjoy a morning tour of Trier, Germany’s oldest city, set on the banks of the Moselle River. See the wonderfully preserved Roman Porta Nigra, Trier Cathedral and the Church of Our Lady. Lunch is served aboard as we depart. Enjoy scenic cruising along the Moselle this afternoon. We dock in Bernkastel around dinnertime. After your evening meal you can take a walk through the town’s cobblestone streets, or join an optional wine-tasting excursion in this famous wine region. (B, L, D)

DAY 5 | COCHEM, GERMANY

A walking tour takes you through the quaint Moselle town of Cochem. Then, visit imposing Reichsburg Castle. After lunch you sail the scenic Moselle to Koblenz, arriving in the evening during dinner. Explore the cobbled streets and cafés, or stay on your ship and hear folktales about the Moselle. (B, L, D)

DAY 6 | KOBLENZ, BRAUBACH & RÜDESHEIM, GERMANY

After breakfast, disembark in Koblenz for a tour of Marksburg Castle, the only Rhine fortress that was never destroyed. Since its fortifications have remained so intact, stepping inside is a veritable journey back to the Middle Ages. Take in views of the Rhine Valley from this castle’s stunning vantage point. Meet your ship in Braubach, where it has sailed during your excursion. Have lunch and enjoy cruising through the storied Middle Rhine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lined with medieval castles, historic towns and vineyards. Arrive in Rüdesheim in the late afternoon. Before dinner, take time to enjoy the bars and shops lining Rüdesheim’s Drosselgasse. Or, you may choose to join your concierge this afternoon for an optional wine-tasting experience. Rejoin your ship in Wiesbaden to enjoy dinner and evening cruising. (B, L, D)

DAY 7 | HEIDELBERG, GERMANY

Today’s full-day excursion takes you to Heidelberg, home to Germany’s oldest university. Tour the imposing red sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle, built in the 12th century but twice destroyed by lightning and then later rebuilt. A guided walk through Heidelberg’s Old Town and marketplace is included, as is lunch in a local restaurant. Return to your ship for dinner and departure. (B, L, D)

DAY 8 | WÜRZBURG, GERMANY

Disembark in Karlstadt and take a half-day excursion to the enticing Franconian wine town of Würzburg where you tour the Bishops’ Residenz, a beautiful baroque palace with numerous paintings and frescoes. Enjoy some free time in Würzburg this afternoon, or join an optional journey along the “Romantic Road” to the walled medieval village of Rothenburg. Meet your ship in Würzburg and dine aboard. (B, L, D)

DAY 9 | BAMBERG, GERMANY

This morning, enjoy scenic cruising along the Main River as you make your way eastward through the Franconia region of Germany. After lunch we stop in the historic town of Bamberg, founded in 902 and an important center of the German Enlightenment. Enjoy a walking tour of Bamberg’s beautifully preserved Old Town area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then take time to explore or perhaps sample the town’s famous locally brewed smoky beer, rauchbier. Dine aboard. (B, L, D)

DAY 10 | NUREMBERG, GERMANY & PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

After breakfast, disembark in Bamberg for a tour of the Bavarian city of Nuremberg. See the ruins of Zeppelin Field, Nazi parade grounds of the 1930s, and the Palace of Justice, the venerable vestige of the Nuremberg Trials. Enjoy lunch on your own, then transfer to Prague. Check in to your hotel for a 2-night stay and take time to explore the city and see what you discover. (B)

DAY 11 | PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

This morning, tour the “City of a Hundred Spires.” A guided walk takes you through Old Town to the famed Charles Bridge. Then, travel to Hradčany for a guided tour inside Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure; you can see the Town Hall’s intricate 15th-century astronomical clock, spend some time in historic Wenceslas Square or discover the city’s Jewish heritage in the Josefov Quarter. (B)

DAY 12 | PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and proceed to the airport for your return flight.* Or, extend your journey with 2 additional nights in Prague and discover more of this celebrated city. (B)

Added Bonus—2 for 1 cruise and 2 for 1 airfare.  Limited time offer.

Call for details at 919.708.8217

Heart of Germany 2015 Christmas Cruise

 

Imagine sailing along the picturesque Main River between Frankfurt and Nuremberg at Christmastime. Explore the Franconian and Bavarian regions of Germany, tour the dramatic sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle, ride along the Romantic Road to Rothenburg, see the sights of historic Nuremberg, and perhaps best of all, experience Germany’s world-famous Christmas markets. Find out how so many of our seasonal traditions began on this unforgettable journey.  The spirit and romance of the holidays come alive with the scent of gingerbread and the tunes of traditional carols around every corner.  We will enjoy a wonderful feast of tasty treats, as well as dozens of stalls brimming with unique and inspiring handcrafted gifts.  If you have a “hard to buy for” loved one, a Christmas cruise is a unique present.  This cruise is my Christmas present to myself.  I will be on this sailing December 3, 2015.

Itinerary: 7 days/6 guided tours

DAY 1:Frankfurt

Arrive in Frankfurt, also known as Frankfurt am Main—Germany’s fifth-largest city. Transfer from the airport to embark our ship. After boarding, relax and get settled in, or spend some time exploring the city, a stunning blend of traditional charm and modern elegance, on your own.  I will be exploring Frankfurt if you would like to join me. After dinner, relax and enjoy musical entertainment in the Lounge. (D)

DAY 2:Heidelberg

Today, take a full-day excursion to Heidelberg, home to Germany’s oldest university, founded in 1386. Tour the imposing red sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle, originally built in the 12th century. Our guided walk ends at Heidelberg’s Old Town and marketplace, where you will encounter the first of our Christmas markets. Shop for toys and gifts, sample delightful local treats, or perhaps get some lunch at a local café. Return aboard for dinner as we continue cruising. (B, D)

DAY 3:Wertheim

Sail into Wertheim, located at the confluence of the Main and Tauber Rivers, while we are finishing breakfast. During our morning walking tour, experience life in a typical small German town. Take some free time to visit Wertheim’s Christmas market or explore the town before returning aboard for lunch. We sail into the evening, docking at Würzburg in the wee hours of the morning. (B, L, D)

DAY 4:Würzburg & Rothenburg

Disembark after breakfast for a full day in two of Northern Bavaria’s most charming destinations. Tour the Bishops’ Residenz, a beautiful baroque palace with many paintings and frescoes. Then, ride in a deluxe motorcoach along the Romantic Road to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Stop for a hearty lunch in a local restaurant and take time to explore this medieval town and its joyful Christmas market. Rothenburg is also home to Germany’s Christmas Museum, open all year, and offers a local pastry, the Schneeball (snowball), to try. Rejoin our ship in Gerlachshausen, dine aboard and cruise through the night. (B, L, D)

DAY 5:Bamberg

Sail through the morning; after lunch, visit Bamberg, with its medieval city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our walking tour includes a visit to the magnificent 11th-century cathedral, reworked in late-Romanesque style in the 13th century, and the picturesque city hall built on an island in the middle of a river. We remain docked well into the evening, so feel free to walk around Bamberg or visit its traditional Christmas markets, especially beautiful when lit up after dark. You can also follow Bamberg’s popular “Route of Nativity Scenes” to view diverse crèche displays at a few dozen churches, museums and other public spaces. (B, L, D)

DAY 6:Nuremberg

Arrive at Nuremberg during a leisurely breakfast. Take a tour of the city’s most prominent landmarks, and enjoy the iconic Christmas market laid out in the Old Town’s Main Market Square. Browse the booths with their colorful ornaments, gifts and fragrant treats; there is no better place to shop for handmade wooden toys and nutcrackers, and you may even spot the golden curls of the Christkind, an angel who brings children’s toys. You must taste the traditional lebkuchen (gingerbread), skinny local bratwurst (sausages) and glühwein (hot spiced wine), and chances are you will hear carolers harmonizing. Lunch and dinner are served aboard and you can come and go as you please. (B, L, D)

DAY 7Nuremberg

After breakfast, disembark and we will leave for the airport for your return fight.  Or, extend your journey and join me with three nights in Prague, the Czech Republic’s glorious, romantic capital. We will be located near Prague’s Old Town and a tour of the city’s highlights, including the landmark Prague Castle, is included. (B)

What a great itinerary.  Be sure to bring an extra suitcase for all those gifts!  Let’s go shopping!

Call 919.708.8217 for more details and departure date for this Heart of Germany Christmas Markets cruise.

***Limited time offer***

2 for 1 cruise AND 2 for 1 airfare – based on double occupancy.

#river cruises

Romantic Danube River Cruise

The Romantic Danube

On this 8-day journey, we visit the grand cities and quaint villages along the famous Danube River.  We will explore both sides of Hungary’s capital – traditional Buda and cosmopolitan Pest.  Experience Vienna’s imperial architecture and gracious culture, tour riverside towns in Austria’s Wachau Valley.  In Germany, stroll cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses.  We will learn about local customs and legends, and see for ourselves why Strauss immortalized the “Blue Danube” in his famous music.  A beautiful journey on a magnificent river.

Itinerary: 7 night cruise with extension in Budapest or Prague available.

Day 1: Nuremberg:  Welcome to Bavaria’s second largest city.  We transfer from the airport to our ship.  After boarding, we have free time to explore the city on our own-or join a “welcome walk” to stretch our legs and  start getting oriented.

Day 2: Nuremberg & Main-Danube Canal: Our morning tour of Nuremberg features the former Nazi parade grounds and the Palace of Justice, historic home of the Nuremberg Trials.  We will have a brief stop at the Court House before walking from the imperial castle grounds past the Albrecht Durer House to the Main Market Square in the Old Town area enclosed by ancient city walls.

 

After lunch aboard, we participate in lively and entertaining discussions about the European Union as we sail through a number of locks that comprise the Main-Danube Canal.  The canal, an engineering marvel stretching 106 miles from Bamberg on the Main River to Kelheim on the Danube, enables river travel from the North Sea to the Black Sea.

Day 3: Kelheim & Regensburg: This morning, we meet our guide dockside for a walking tour through the scenic town of Regensburg, considered one of Europe’s best preserved medieval cities.  We see one of the largest groupings of 13th and 4th century church spires, towers and patrician houses north of the Alps.  We visit Old Stone Bridge, St. Peter’s Cathedral with plenty of time to stroll the streets and shop.

Day 4: Passau: We arrive early in Passau to take a guided walk through the Old Town.  We see the Oberhaus Fortress and St. Stephens’ Cathedral where we will be treated to a special organ concert.  The rest of the day is free to explore Passau.

Day 5: Melk & Vienna: We start our day with a guided tour of the Benedictine abbey at Melk.  Then an afternoon cruise through the scenic Wachau Valley.  We will be joining a workshop about Viennese coffee and apple strudel.  We can attend an evening concert at the Vienna Opera House in this “City of Waltzes.”

Day 6: Vienna: We start our day with a half day city tour of Vienna.  An optional visit to Schonbrunn Palace, the summer residence of the Habsburgs is highly recommended.

Day 7: Budapest: Hungary’s vibrant capital is divided by the Danube River.  We take a panoramic city tour through the modern Pest side of the city, then cross the bridge into Buda’s Castle District.  We will have plenty of time to explore Budapest on our own after the tours.

Day 8: Budapest: Our Romantic Danube River cruise ends today as we depart for the airport with our bags full of souvenirs and our hearts full of wonderful memories.

We can extend our stay in either Budapest or Prague, Czech Republic for a few days.

**2 for 1 cruise and 2 for 1 airfare available for this cruise (limited time only)

Call today for details at 919.708.8217

 

 

CLASSIC CHRISTMAS MARKETS

CLASSIC CHRISTMAS MARKETS

This Classic Christmas Markets trip will surely get you into the holiday spirit.  We will visit the traditional Christmas markets and historic towns of Central Europe.  On this journey, we will try Gluhwein (hot mulled wine), shop for one of a kind Christmas ornaments, toys, and handicrafts, visit picturesque villages and towns, and sample regional foods, beer, and wines. This is truly a  one-of-a kind tour.  Hope you can join me as we go on a unique Christmas Shopping experience.  Check out this amazing itinerary and see for yourself.  Get those shopping lists together.  This is my Christmas present to me!

HIGHLIGHTS:  Black Forest, Strasbourg, Franconia Region, Wurzburg, Nuremberg, Neuschwanstein Castle, Oberammergau Diner’s Choice, Munich, Innsbruck, Christmas Markets.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Overnight flight to Zurich, Switzerland where our Christmas tour begins.

Day 2: Black Forest, Germany – Tour Begins

Arrive into Zurich, Switzerland and then travel through the scenic countryside of Germany to the heart of the Black Forest. Here we enjoy the peacefulness of the surrounding forested mountains, stroll the village lanes to the local church or shop for authentic handicrafts and wood carvings. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Black Forest dinner.

DINNER

HIGH 51 LOW 31Day 3: Black Forest – Strasbourg, France – Black Forest

Travel the picturesque valleys of the Black Forest and the vineyard fields of the Alsace to the provincial capital of Strasbourg, France where centuries of Roman, French, German and Alsatian influences blend together to lend this city its unique character. Enjoy a guided tour of the old quarter, “Petite France,” featuring the Cathedral of Notre Dame, considered one of the noblest achievements of Western architecture. Time is available to explore the Christmas markets before returning to Germany.

• BREAKFAST

HIGH 51 LOW 31

Day 4: Black Forest – Wurzburg – Franconia

Depart the Black Forest for the Franconia region of Germany. Our destination is Wurzburg where a guide will lead a leisurely paced walking tour of the city. This ancient wine town is rich in historic sites, including the magnificent 18th-century residence of the prince-bishops, boasting the largest ceiling fresco in the world, and the ornate Alte Mainbrucke, the oldest bridge on the River Main. We will have time to shop in the lively Christmas market.

BREAKFAST & DINNER 

HIGH 48 LOW 28

Day 5: Franconia – Nuremberg – Franconia

Start our day with a city tour of historic Nuremberg featuring the old town, the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle, and the Justice Palace, where the War Crimes Tribunal sat in 1946. Our city tour concludes with a visit to Nuremberg’s Christmas Market, one of the oldest and most famous markets in Germany that dates back to 1628. Here you can spend the day sipping Gluhwein and sampling roast sausages. Over 200 wooden stalls have given the Christmas market its name – “Little Town from Wood.” Here you can find items like Nuremberg spicy gingerbread, fruit loaves, bakery goods and sweets, Christmas tree angels and toys.

BREAKFAST

HIGH 48 LOW 28

Day 6:Franconia – Rothenberg – Neuschwanstein Castle – Oberammergau

Begin our day with a stop in lovely Rothenberg, one of the most well-preserved medieval walled towns in all of Germany. After some free time in town, we continue on to Oberammergau. En route, we make a picture stop at Neuschwanstein Castle, the fairy tale retreat of Ludwig II of Bavaria. Oberammergau is the perfect picture of a Bavarian Alpine village, offering the opportunity to glimpse into the past while experiencing the living history of the region. It is the ideal place to shop for cuckoo clocks, nutcrackers and Hummel figurines. This evening, it’s Diner’s Choice…a tour exclusive. Dinner is included and you will choose the perfect spot from  a “menu” of Oberammergau’s local restaurants.

 BREAKFAST & DINNER

• HIGH 48 LOW 28

Day 7: Oberammergau – Innsbruck, Austria – Oberammergau

Traverse the Bavarian landscape to the Tyrolean town of Innsbruck, nestled in the heart of the mountains. A local guide provides a tour highlighting the city’s history, culture and popular attractions including Maria Theresienstrasse, the Hofburg and the “Golden Roof.” The remainder of the day is at leisure to shop in the many specialty stores and the cozy Christmas market.

 BREAKFAST

• HIGH 48 LOW 28

Day 8: Oberammergau – Munich – Oberammergau

This morning, travel to Munich and enjoy a panoramic tour visiting the Marienplatz, the Glockenspiel and Olympic Park. Enjoy leisure time to independently explore Munich’s historic area and the Christmas market. Later,we return to Oberammergau where we will have time to stroll about the village, perhaps shopping for the intricate wood-crafts the town is known for.

BREAKFAST & DINNER

HIGH 48 LOW 28

Day 9:

Oberammergau – Tour Ends with breakfast. We are taken to the airport with suitcases full of German gifts and memories that will be a lifetime gift.

BREAKFAST

HIGH 48 LOW 28

Join us December 4-12 for an exciting winter adventure.  

This tour includes: 7 nights lodging, 11 meals (7 breakfasts,4 dinners) Round trip airfare, Round trip transfers, Vacation protection, Sedan service round trip so you don’t even have to drive to the airport.

Call for details about your rates with departure airport.  919.708.8217

Rates from RDU NC: $3234 per person.

**Enjoy lunch in Strasbourg with my compliments. 

#German christmas markets, #Strasbourg,# Innsbruck, #Neuschwanstein Castle, #Oberammergau, #Black Forest, #Nuremberg.

2014 Christmas In The Heart of Germany

 Christmas In The Heart of Germany – This holiday season, sail along the picturesque Main River between Frankfurt and Nuremberg.  Explore the Bavarian regions of Germany, tour the dramatic sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle, the Romantic Road to Rothenburg, historic Nuremberg, and best of all, experience Germany’s world-famous Christmas markets.  Many of our seasonal traditions began in Germany.  So come along and explore the magnificent Christmas markets of Germany on this amazing cruise.

Day 1- Nuremberg – Arrive in Nuremberg and transfer from the airport to embark your ship.  After boarding, relax, or begin exploring this historic city on your own.  After dinner, relax and enjoy musical entertainment in the lounge.

Day 2- Nuremberg – Morning tour of the city’s most prominent landmarks, enjoy the iconic Christmas market in the Old Town’s Main Market Square.  Browse booths with colorful ornaments, gifts, and fragrant treats; there is no better place to shop for handmade wooden toys and nutcrackers.  Savor the traditional lebkuchen and gluhwein.  Free time this afternoon to further explore Nuremberg before boarding your ship for dinner.

Day 3 – Bamberg – Visit Bamberg with its medieval city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Your walking tour includes a visit to the 11th- century cathedral and picturesque city hall built on an island in the middle of a river.  Free time to walk around Bamberg or visit its traditional Christmas markets.

Day 4 – Wurzburg & Rothenburg – Disembark in Gerlachshausen for a full day in two of Northern Bavaria’s most charming destinations.  Walk through Wurzburg and tour the Bishops’ Residenz, a beautiful baroque palace.  Then take a deluxe ride along the Romantic Road to Rothenberg.  Lunch at a local Bavarian restaurant and shopping in its joyful Christmas Market.  Rothenberg is also home to Germany’s Christmas Museum.  Return to Wurzburg for onboard dinner.

Day 5 – Wertheim – Enjoy scenic cruising this morning; sail into Wertheim, located at the confluence of the Main and Tauber Rivers.  You will experience life in a typical small German town on your walking tour.  Free time to visit Wertheim’s Christmas market.  Onboard enjoy Wertheim’s traditional glassblowing art as you sail toward Frankfurt.

Day 6 – Heidelberg – Arrive at Frankfurt for a full-day excursion to Heidelberg, home to Germany’s oldest university.  Tour the red sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle, originally built in the 12th century.  Your tour ends at Old Town and marketplace where you will have time to shop at the Christmas market.  Shop for gifts, sample delightful treats, lunch at a local cafe.  After dinner onboard, you will have free time to explore Frankfurt this evening to discover Frankfurt’s charming elegant city.

Day 7 – Frankfurt – Our Christmas in the Heart of Germany ends and we return home with suitcases full of gifts and our hearts full of memories.

Itinerary can be reversed.  Additional nights in Cologne or Prague recommended.                                   

*****SPECIAL SAVINGS DISCOUNT*****

2-FOR-1 CRUISE AND SPECIAL AIRFARE

Limited time (Special airfare and 2 for 1 cruise expires December, 2013)

#River Cruises