Day 3 – Kitzingen – Wurzburg

Explore Kitzingen, Franconia’s wine trade center, with a city tour. Later, the Aulic (wine) Council and Wine Queen will welcome you with a special five-wine tasting in one of Germany’s oldest wine cellars. During the afternoon, you have a choice of two excursions. Join a guided bike ride from Kitzingen to Würzburg along the Main River and “Romantic Road,” or take a walking tour through Würzburg and then visit it’s Residenz Palace. The 300-room palace took nearly 60 years to complete and contains the world’s largest ceiling fresco, created by Venetian painter Tiepolo, as well as one of the most beautiful staircases in the world (B,L,D)

Day 4 – Wertheim

Wertheim’s old town center still features half-timbered houses and the Gothic architecture of the Stiftskirche, its oldest Protestant church. You may either join a guided walking tour through the historic city center or learn the art of pretzel making with a visit to a local bakery. For those seeking a more active adventure, take a scenic bike ride through the Main River Valley or hike high above the town for a visit to the castle, one of the most picturesque ruins in Germany. (B,L,D)

Day 5 – Rudesheim – Rhine Gorge – Lahnstein

Arrive in Rüdesheim, where you can visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet, or take a ride over the vineyards of Rüdesheim in a gondola to the Niederwald Monument, and then afterwards be treated to a wine tasting. You may also hike through a Rüdesheim vineyard. Another choice today is to take a guided bike tour along the Rhine Valley, riding between the Rheingau hills and the Rhine River. Later in the day, set sail towards Lahnstein through the Rhine River Gorge, famous for its beautiful and imposing castles. Cap the day off with a visit to Lahneck Castle. (B,L,D)

Day 6 – Cochem – Zell

Wake up in fairytale Cochem and visit the Reichsburg Castle followed by a walking tour. As an alternative, visit one of Europe’s oldest working mustard mills where you will sample Cochem’s famous mustard. You may also opt to take a guided bike tour along the captivating Moselle River. Later cruise to Zell, famous for their Riesling and the well-known arched black cat icon, often seen on the labels of local German wines. Experience the hospitality of the citizens of Zell, including the local Wine Queen and Mayor, at an exclusive wine festival where you’ll sample local wines, sausages and more. (B,L,D) 

Day 7 – Zell – Trier

Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Moselle to Trier, Germany’s oldest city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its rich ancient Roman past. Join a guided tour of the city, including the old Roman amphitheater, Roman Baths, Basilica of Constantine and the Porta Nigra Gate that dates back to 180 A.D. Alternatively, you can join a tour to discover the Secrets of the Porta Nigra; or go on a hike to Trier’s amphitheater where gladiators once held contests. (B,L,D)

Day 8 – Luxembourg – Disembarkation

This morning, bid farewell to your luxurious river cruise ship. (B)