Arrive at Nuremberg airport where you will be transferred
to the ship. (D)

During the Middle Ages, Nuremberg was the residence of German Emperors, as you will discover on your guided excursion. Visit Kaiserburg Castle, which has housed every emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. Your tour continues along cobble stoned streets to one of the most famous examples of 14th century German ironwork, the Schöner Brunnen in Hauptmarkt (Market Square). Finish the day shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts at the festive Christkindlesmarkt, the largest and oldest Christmas Market in Germany. In this fine Medieval setting, you can enjoy authentic Nuremberg gingerbread and bratwurst.
(BB, L, Captain’s Welcome Gala)

One of the few cities not destroyed during the WWII bombings of Germany, Bamberg, is a city built on seven hills. Wander through the half-timbered fishing village of Klein-Venedig, known as “Little Venice,” and past the curious narrow alleyways that line Old Town. Continue to the Bamberg Cathedral and New Residence. The guided tour also includes visits to Nativity scenes throughout the city and time to explore the local Christmas Market. While enjoying the market, be sure to sample what Bamberg is world-famous for: rauchbier (smoked beer). (BB, L, D)

The ship will dock in Würzburg, where a motorcoach will take you to Rothenburg. Travel along parts of the “Romantic Road” on your way to Rothenburg, with its timber-frame houses topped with picturesque red tile roofs. Your exploration of this fairytale gem gives you a glimpse at the way life was lived during the Middle Ages, as it is home to some of the best-preserved Medieval buildings in Europe. You will conclude your visit at one of Germany’s oldest and most celebrated Christmas Markets, Reiterlesmarkt. You will also want to visit Kathe Wohlfahrt’s original Christmas shop which also features a delightful museum that displays vintage toys from as early as the 17th century. (BB, D)

Visit the opulent Würzburg Residenz, one of the most extraordinary Baroque palaces in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 300-room palace took nearly 60 years to complete and contains the world’s largest ceiling fresco, created by Venetian painter Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, as well as what is often described as the most beautiful staircase in the world. Your visit here will give you a true sense of the history of this region through the European Renaissance. Afterward, visit the town’s 200-year-old Christmas Market for one-of-a-kind presents and souvenirs. (BB, L, D)

Join your local guide for a walk through the picturesque town of Wertheim, where you can look across the Main River to Bavaria before continuing to the Spitzer Turm (Pointed Tower). Built in the 13th century and once a former prison, the Tower’s structure now leans to one side after withstanding over 800 years of flooding. Stop in the historic Wertheim Market Square, lined with half-timbered buildings and shops selling artisan glassworks and Franconian wines in round bottles. Back onboard the ship, enjoy festive carols by some of Wertheim’s children, and later listen to a piano recital. (BB, L, D)

On the last full day of your journey, enjoy a panoramic drive amid the high-rises of “Mainhattan.” Cross the Main River for a photo opportunity in Frankfurt before returning to view the New Opera House and Hauptwache Plaza. Continue past the Stock Exchange, Goethe Place, Goethe University, and the Palmengarten. The walking portion of your tour begins at St. Paul’s Church, where you can explore the neighbouring Old World buildings and finish your Christmas shopping in Römerberg before returning to the ship. On Römerberg, Paulsplatz, and Mainkai quay, 200 stalls offer arts, crafts, and seasonal food and drink. (BB, L, Captain’s Farewell Dinner)

Disembark the ship in Frankfurt and transfer to the Frankfurt airport for your flight home. (CB or BB)