Medieval Germany: Bavaria and the Romantic Road
This eight-day River Cruise offers a straightforward and informative journey through the heart of central Germany, exploring the heritage of Hesse and Bavaria. Your holiday begins with return flights from Dublin, including a 20kg checked bag, and continues with seven nights on board the five-star MS George Eliot. This expertly organised Bavaria Romantic Road tour is designed for travellers who value a factual and well-paced exploration of Europe’s most famous medieval landscapes.
From the moment you board in Mainz, the historical focus of the trip is clear. You will visit the colossal 12th-century St. Martin’s Cathedral and see the breath-taking blue stained-glass windows created by artist Marc Chagall. As you sail along the Main River, the route takes you to Miltenberg, a village known for its traditional timber-framed houses and the trickling stone fountains of its old marketplace. In Wertheim, you can watch a traditional glassblowing demonstration, a craft that has been part of this region’s identity for centuries.
A significant part of this Bavaria Romantic Road tour includes a visit to Würzburg, where you will explore the Residenz. This magnificent Baroque palace was built to rival the grandest residences in Europe and features one of the most ornate staircases ever constructed. You will also spend time in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a town so perfectly preserved it feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages. Its narrow streets and tall gabled houses are still protected by their original city walls.
The cruise also visits the UNESCO World Heritage town of Bamberg, home to a unique town hall situated on an island in the middle of a burbling river. Your journey concludes in Nuremberg, a city with a deep and complex history. You have the choice to focus on its medieval imperial castle or its significant role in 20th-century history at the rally grounds and courthouse. Throughout the cruise, all dining is provided on board, from extensive breakfast buffets to the special Chef’s Dinner. With airport transfers and all taxes included, this trip provides excellent value for those looking to discover Germany’s medieval heart with the expert guidance of your Travel Escapes advisor.
What is included in the cruise price?
Can I upgrade my cabin on the ship?
What flight arrangements are provided?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return flights from Dublin to Frankfurt / Munich to Dublin
- 20kg check-in bag per person
- Return airport transfers
- 7 nights onboard the 5* Riviera River Cruise MS George Eliot based on two sharing
- Full board dining
- Complimentary drinks
- Complimentary onboard WIFI
- 10 included experiences
- All Airport taxes, charges, and transfers
Itinerary
1Arrival in Mainz and Boarding+
Upon arrival in Germany, you will be transferred to your five-star cruise ship in Mainz. Meet the friendly English-speaking crew and settle into your spacious cabin before enjoying your first dinner on board.
2Mainz Guided Tour and Afternoon Sailing+
Explore the skyline of Mainz, dominated by the six-towered St. Martin’s Cathedral. Visit Saint Stephen’s Church to see the famous blue stained-glass windows by Marc Chagall before sailing toward Miltenberg.
3Medieval Miltenberg and Wertheim+
Wander through Miltenberg's timber-framed streets and see Germany’s oldest tavern. In the afternoon, enjoy a glassblowing demonstration on board before a walking tour of the colourful market square in Wertheim.
4Würzburg and the Residenz Palace+
Arrive in elegant Würzburg for a guided tour of this Franconian capital. The highlight is a visit to the Residenz, a grand Baroque palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with frescoes and tapestries.
5Bavaria Romantic Road tour to Rothenburg+
Take a scenic drive along the famous Romantic Road to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Explore the walled old town and its narrow cobbled streets before visiting the picturesque town of Ochsenfurt.
6The Charms of Bamberg+
Discover the UNESCO-listed town of Bamberg, built on seven hills. See the unique Old Town Hall sitting on a river island and enjoy a special Chef’s Dinner followed by live Bavarian music on board.
7Nuremberg's Historic Landmarks+
Choose between a tour of Nuremberg’s medieval history, including the Imperial Castle, or a tour focusing on its significant 20th-century role, visiting the rally grounds and the Palace of Justice.
8Homeward Journey+
After a final breakfast on board, bid farewell to the crew and transfer to the airport for your return flight to Dublin.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 Jun 2026Lower Deck | 25 Jun 2026 | Lower Deck | €2,849 | Enquire Now |
| 02 Jul 2026Lower Deck | 02 Jul 2026 | Lower Deck | €2,599 | Enquire Now |
| 09 Jul 2026Lower Deck | 09 Jul 2026 | Lower Deck | €2,749 | Enquire Now |
| 26 Aug 2026Lower Deck | 26 Aug 2026 | Lower Deck | €3,549 | Enquire Now |
| 02 Sep 2026Lower Deck | 02 Sep 2026 | Lower Deck | €1,999 | Enquire Now |
| 16 Sep 2026Lower Deck | 16 Sep 2026 | Lower Deck | €1,999 | Enquire Now |
| 23 Sep 2026Lower Deck | 23 Sep 2026 | Lower Deck | €1,999 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: RI
