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Europe May 3, 2021

3 Exhilarating Active Family Biking Vacation Tours in Europe

Awesome Biking Adventures for your family, or family reunion

Your family can enjoy a biking vacation in Europe.

Are you ready to adventure outside of the United States? Ready to experience history that has gone back hundreds and hundreds of years, astounding architecture, other traditions, foods, and cultures? Ready to pedal through the countryside rather than speed past by car? Then Europe is a perfect destination for an active vacation for your family or family reunion. Check out these 3 active family biking vacation tours in Europe!

Are you wondering if this would be a good trip for a family reunion? If quite a few members of your family would love to bike across Europe than one of these tours might be a great option. For the family members who would rather not ride there are other activites they can do while everyone else is out riding. Those hanging back can visit the towns, go hiking, shopping, or relax at the hotel. They can, of course, join the group on the non-riding activities during the trip. There is quite a bit of flexibility of what your family can do during the day. And then everyone can meet up for the afternoon or at dinner and have so much fun talking about what they did and saw that day.

Prague to Vienna Family Biking Tour

This active family biking vacation tour in Europe will take your family from one beautiful European capital city to another through some stunning countryside, small towns, and wandering rivers. The heart of Europe was a center of history ready to be explored. Visit castles and ruins, churches and architecture, rivers and roads. Plus, your family can discover a different lifestyle, culture, landscape, and food than they are used to. What a marvelous adventure! Let’s see what this adventure holds!

The terrain for this trip has gently rolling hills on smaller roads with less traffic for the first few days. The last few days are spend mostly riding on flat paths. This is a level 1/2 trip. There is always the option of boosts in the shuttle for tired riders and ebikes for those who want the extra help on the hills. And, there are activities available for those who don’t want to ride at all or transportation if they want to meet up with the group for the other (non-biking) activities.

Day 1–Holašovice to Český Krumlov–Welcome to the Czech Republic! Right off the bat you are whisked away on a shuttle from Prague to the charming village of Holašovice. After a traditional hearty lunch, your family will be fitted for bicycles and set out to ride to Český Krumlov. Want a challenge? Climb up Klet Mountain for stunning views of South Bohemia.
Day 2–Český Krumlov to Zlata Koruna–This morning you ride down the banks of the winding Vltava River to the small village of Zlata Koruna. Then you will trade your bicycle for some paddles as you raft down the calm Vltava River back to Český Krumlov. During the afternoon you can explore Český Krumlov and visit an art museum or the Marionette Museum. Klet Mountain is another option for you to ride, hike or take a chairlift to the top. In the evening you will enjoy a private guided tour of this medieval town and learn about its history and interesting facts.
Day 3–Lake Lipno to Austria–The shuttle will take your family to Lake Lipno for a thrilling morning of speed and heights. Pick from activities such as a bobsleigh track or treetop walk (with massive toboggan and lookout tower). Bike through the southern countryside of the Czech Republic and into northern Austria after lunch. Lastly, you will shuttle along the Danube River for a couple of hours to the delightful town of Dürnstein. In Dürnstein, you will enjoy a local Austrian evening meal and then you can take in the night sights.
Day 4–Dürnstein to Melk Loop–Dürnstein will be home base for the rest of the trip. The rides from here are some of the most picturesque of the trip. You will absolutely love exploring the Wachau valley and the delightful villages along the way. Today’s destination is Melk and the highlight will be visiting the breathtaking Melk Benedictine Abbey. It is absolutely stunning! Get more info about the abbey here. To head back to Dürnstein your family can choose to take the shuttle or bike. There will be some more time to explore Dürnstein when you get back.
Day 5–Dürnstein to Gottweig Loop–This morning your bike ride will bring you to the bottom of Gottweig Abbey Hill (for an extra challenge you can ride up also). After your ride, you will be hungry and glad for a stop at the World of Morwald to get to taste a sophisticated twist on Viennese classics. And even better, you will learn to make two traditional Austrian desserts in a private cooking class. Then it’s time for relaxation or exploration before the farewell dinner.
Day 6–Dürnstein to Spitz and back–This last morning will start with a hike to the castle ruins overlooking Dürnstein that once imprisoned Richard the Lionheart. Another option for the morning is a quick ride to Spitz. You will love the last look at the beautiful Danube countryside before getting on the shuttle to the Vienna train station or airport.

Want to know a little more about Dürnstein? Read this article!

Netherlands and Belgium Family Biking Tour

Biking through the Netherlands and Belgium is the perfect destination for your family’s first biking vacation adventure in Europe. Everyone will love the flat-as-a-pannekoek landscape! Plus, you all will love cycling past the fields and fields of flowers and flowing canals.

Due to the mostly flat riding this trip is suitable for most all riders. For those who want an extra challenge there are longer ride options available. If you have members in your family who don’t want to ride at all there is options for them too. A perfect trip for everyone!

Day 1–Amsterdam to The Hague–Start your vacation biking from Amsterdam to the coast past fields of green, flowers, and windmills. The landscape changes to sand dunes and seaside lanes as you get closer to The Hague. The kids will love some time playing organized games in the sand of the beach while adults have some time to themselves.
Day 2-3–Gouda to Utrecht–The biking will start from Gouda (don’t forget to tase the Gouda cheese) to the UNESCO site of Kinderdijk, the land of windmills. Then the kids get to spend the afternoon adventuring with a Leader while the adults ride to Utrecht, one of the Netherlands’ oldest cities. Today is a day to explore ancient castles, ride through traditional Dutch villages and past grand manors. Kids will also love learning to make cheese. Definitely bragging rights!
Day 4-6–Belgium–How fun to bike from one country to another. You will cross from the Netherlands to Belgium through the scenic countryside to Bruges. Your family will really enjoy riding in the mostly car-free city. This medieval city has so much to explore down the cobblestone streets flanked with gabled brick houses, lofty spires, and meandering canals. Most likely the favorite part of the trip will be the visit to the Chocolate Museum and chocolate-making workshop. What would a trip to Belgium be without a little chocolate! On the last days of your trip, you will visit the WWI monuments at Flanders Fields and take a relaxing ride through the charming Belgian neighborhoods.

Brittany and Normandy Family Biking Tour

This tour of Brittany and Normandy combines stunning landscapes, European history, United States history, French culture, and delicious cuisine. There is so much to see and do in this small portion of France! Check out this last family biking itinerary for your vacation in Europe.

While this trip is slightly more challenging (biking wise) than the tour of the Netherlands and Belgium, guests will have choices about how much they want to exert themselves. Your guides are ready to help make the day just right for your family and their activity level.

Day 1–St-Malo–Your family journey starts in Brittany’s restful countryside. Your first stop will be the amazing fortified walled city of St-Malo. Once there, the kids will have an amazing adventure of land sailing on the beach.
Day 2–Dinan and St-Suliac–Today is a day full of exploration! First, in the lovely harbor town of Dinan, you will discover what’s behind those half-timbered houses and narrow cobblestone streets. The kids will get to try their hand at learning to make crêpes. Yummy! Finally, you will bike to the captivating village of St-Suliac. At the end of the day, you might want to take the family for a stroll along the beach of St-Malo while watching the beautiful sunset.
Day 3–Mont-St-Michel–You will be amazed by the rugged coastline during your morning ride. After you arrive in Cancale, you will have a chance to taste the local specialty, oysters. The highlight of your day will be a private tour of the stunning island monastery and cathedral of Mont-St-Michel.
Day 4–Arromanches–The next couple of days will be spent remembering the events of D-Day and WWII. Today you will visit the famous sites of Mulberry Harbor and Juno Beach. Then the kids will saddle up for a scenic horseback ride while the adults bike through the Norman landscape. As you pass the apple orchards and grand manors you will want to stop and take pictures around every corner.
Day 5–Omaha Beach— You will visit WWII battle sites, memorials, and the landing beaches with a local historian. Some highlights of the day will be biking past the bunkers of Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach, and the American Military Cemetery.
Day 6–Bayeux and Longues-sur-Mer–You will finish your trip with a relaxing ride to Longues-sur-Mer. This was once a section of Germany’s coastal fortifications. Now it is a fascinating site will stunning views across the channel. You will also have the chance to see the 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry. This tapestry tells the story of the Norman invasion of England in embroidery.

These 3 amazing family biking vacation tours in Europe are a sampling of what is possible for your family in Europe. Do you have a destination in Europe that you would like to take your family to? Contact me and we can get started planning your next active family biking adventure vacation in Europe!

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

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Ama Waterways April 21, 2021

The Stunning Benedictine Abbey of Melk, Austria

Visit the stunning Benedictine Abbey in Melk, Austria on your next Danube river cruise.

Melk, Austria is a tiny little town a the very edge of the Wachau Valley. Just sailing down the Danube River you will see such breathtaking scenery. But, then as you get closer to Melk you will be awestruck but the gorgeous and impressive structure of the Melk Benedictine Abbey perched atop of a hill overlooking the small town. Just the sight of the Abbey in Melk, Austria will have you hungering to see more.

Your river cruise will most likely have a tour option that will take you up the hill to the Abbey. If there isn’t a guided tour of the rooms then you can try and join one when you get up there. Once off the transportation up you will walk down some steps to get to the courtyard. Immediately you will be impressed with the grandure!

A little History

Originally Melk Abbey was built as a Roman fortress. In the 11th century, the fortress was converted into a monastery by the ruling Babenberg family. The family then donated the monastery to the Benedictine monks. The Abbey has been continuously a center of worship for over 900 years. The building you see now is not original. It has had to be reconstructed a few times and in the 1700s was rebuilt in the Baroque style.

Visiting Melk Abby

After you go through the beautiful courtyard into the abbey in Melk, Austria, you will want to visit four main areas–the monastery, the church, the library, and the gardens. Throughout the tour, you will be astounded but the architecture, frescoes, and ornate decor. While the whole experience is amazing, the library is one of the most astounding with over 100,000 books, some of which date back to the 9th century.

This description clearly cannot give you an idea what Melk Abbey looks like so here are a few pictures (as magnificent as the pictures are they don’t even compare to seeing the real thing).

Visiting Melk Abbey is most definitely one of the places you need to visit on your Danube River cruise!

Have you visited Melk Abbey? What was your favorite experience there?

If you would like some information about Danube River cruise itineraries that visit Melk please contact me. I would love to get you started planning your next Danube River cruise.

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

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Ama Waterways September 15, 2020

Dürnstein, Austria–an Excellent River Cruise Stop

Spend your day in Durnstein, Austria on a river cruise stop.

How to spend your day in Dürnstein, Austria

Dürnstein, Austria might be just a short stop on your Danube River cruise but it will definitely be one you remember. This tiny little town of only 950 people is famous for its history as well as its love for a specific fruit.

Most cruise lines only spend a few hours in Dürnstein as a part of a scenic cruise through the beautiful Wachau Valley. The picturesque town seems to rise up out of the banks as you sail through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley. In Dürnstein, you are able to get up close and personal with Austrian history, culture, myths and legends. This is also a fantastic stop for active travelers interested in hiking or biking and wine lovers ready to savor some unique wine.

Durnstein, Austria–an excellent stop for a walking tour

Walk the streets of Durnstein Austria on your river cruise stop.

Since Dürnstein has so many historical elements this is a good place to opt for the included tour from your river cruise line. Maybe you join the tour of the town through the cobblestone streets. You might stop in the middle of town at the Baroque Stiftskirche, a still active church. Seen from all over the village, the blue and white towers give the town an authentic medieval feel. On a guided tour you will hear so much of the history and culture found within the walls of this charming village that you might not get on your own.

If you are more adventuresome a hike up to Dürnstein Castle might be more interesting. The hike up is about 20-30 heart-pounding minutes up a fairly steep hill. Make sure you have appropriate footwear and plenty of water. Exhilarating views of the valley reward hikers for their hard work. For many Danube River travelers hiking up to this ruined castle a rite of passage. The history behind the castle is also much of what makes seeing the castle worthwhile. As you climb the hill plaques tell the story and legend of Dürnstein Castle.

A quick history of the famous Dürnstein Castle

The history of Dürnstein Castle begins in the 11th century centered around the Kuenring family. Given a large amount of land by a regional Babenberger prince the family established a small village. A castle was constructed to overlook the town, defending its lands and possessions and keeping an eye on the Danube trade route.

Local legend tells the story how at one time the King of England, Richard the Lionheart, was imprisoned in the castle. The story says that as King Richard headed back to England after the crusades Leopold V asked him to dine at court. Leopold V reportedly asked for a portion of the spoils. In response, King Richard refused, tearing up the Austrian flag.

A very offended Leopold V threw King Richard into prison demanding payment of 150,000 silver marks for the king’s release. King Richard remained in prison for 12 months (1192-1193) but it is believed he was treated well even being allowed traveling singers for entertainment.

Many years later Hungarian raiders captured the town. Then the great fire of 1551 completely destroyed the town. Lastly, Swedish armies destroyed the castle with cannon fire from the river. Many attempts to rebuild the castle failed and so the castle remains in ruins to this day. This fascination and intrigue over Austrian and British history is what draws people up the hill to the ruins of Dürnstein Castle.

Dürnstein, Austria–an excellent stop for a bike ride

Many river cruise lines give their guest the option to bike down the Danube River from Dürnstein to the next port. Biking right down along the banks of the Danube gives a different vantage point than from the boat to see the beautiful scenery. You can even choose between riding down the paved path on the quieter south side of the river past vineyards and a few small towns or the busier north side. Either way, you go you will love the ride and the view.

Dürnstein, Austria–an excellent town for apricot and wine lovers

Vineyards surround Dürnstein and produce excellent wines. Wine lovers might enjoy taking a wine tasting tour in this town. But, their real claim to fame comes from apricots. Apricots are everywhere and therefore, so are apricot products. As a unique souvenir from this area, you could buy apricot anything–liqueur, brandy, gin, desserts, pastries, jams, soap, creams, shampoo, and oh, so much more.

Check out this Apricot Tart recipe inspired by Durnstein and the Danube River. It will either give you a taste for Dürnstein as you prepare to cruise or bring back wonderful memories of your river cruise stop in Dürnstein, Austria.

If you would like to learn more about river cruise itineraries that include a stop in Dürnstein, Austria please contact me. I would love to help you find your perfect river cruise vacation.

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

Other links that you might be interested in:

Ama Waterways May 8, 2020

Make the Holidays Merry–Explore Europe’s Christmas Markets!

I know it is only May but if you are considering taking a vacation during the Christmas holidays now is definitely the time to begin planning for Christmas 2020 or 2021. Even though you cannot travel now you definitely can start planning and booking future vacations. Plus, AmaWaterways has a very nice promotion for vacations booked before June 30, 2020.

Explore the magical European Christmas markets with an AmaWaterways Iconic Christmas Market Cruise.

But first, let’s learn more about the beautiful cities and towns on the Danube River that are part of AmaWaterways Iconic Christmas Markets cruise!

Sail the AmaWaterways Iconic Christmas Markets Cruise

There are a few fantastic Christmas Market Cruise itineraries of AmaWaterways that I could have chosen to share with you today. But I loved the classicness (I just made up a new word 🙂 ) of this one. I guess the “Iconic” in the name says it all! Come with me and learn all about AmaWaterways Iconic Christmas Market tour on the Danube River as we travel through Hungary, Austria, and Germany.

Map of AmaWaterways Iconic Christmas Market Cruise — Map of the AmaWaterways Iconic Christmas Market Cruise

Christmas Traditions to Experience

Part of the treasure of the touring the Christmas markets in Europe is learning about holiday traditions that are so different from the United States. Different fascets of Christmas are important in Europe than they are here.

How Santa differs in Europe

Let’s take Santa Claus for instance. Countries in Europe don’t have the same Santa Claus tradition that we do. They have something similar but yet, very different. There are no chimneys, trips around the world with flying reindeer, or the North Pole. In the Czech Republic and Austria, you will find a similar character to Santa Clause. Austrians call him St. Nicholas and the people of the Czech Republic call him Mikulas. Each country has differing traditions on how he arrives bringing small gifts to children on December 6th with his companion Krampus (who gives coal, onions, or potatoes to the naughty children). Traditionally, the real gift-giver, Baby Jesus, (Christkindl in Austria and Jezisek in the Czech Republic) comes on the 24th.

Christmas Markets

As you travel down the Danube River from town to town you are delighted by the different traditions you come across, the food, decorations, music, and of course, the Christmas Markets! During the holidays, from early/mid-November to late December, these wonderful outdoor markets come alive. Some cities even have quite a few options. As you wander throughout, from booth to booth, enjoy the smells, sounds, and sights of the season.

Special Traditions Onboard

Of the boat is not the only place you will get to experience some holiday traditions. The AmaWaterways staff wants to create the most magical holiday possible. A couple of activities you might get to participate in are:

Leaving out your shoes for St. Nick
Trimming the tree
Christmas cookies on Christmas Eve
New Year’s Countdown

Iconic Christmas Market Itinerary

Day 1 & 2–Budapest, Hungary

Guided options in Budapest

If you choose to join the included “Queen of the Danube” tour you will be treated to the best of what Budapest has to offer. You will visit Buda Castle, Heroes’ Square, and the Great Market Hall. You will see what makes gives Budapest its name by visiting the Buda (hilly) side and the Pest (flat) sides of the river. And since this is a Christmas Market cruise you will be given some time to wander through the oldest and most spectacular market in Budapest, Vörösmarty Square. This tour will give you a great overview of the city. It might even spark some desire to head back someday for a longer stay.

On your own in Budapest

If you would like to venture out on your own don’t miss some of these iconic sights:

Vörösmarty Christmas Market in Vörösmarty Square.
Chain Bridge near Buda Castle. It is gorgeous lit up at night. The current bridge is an exact replica of the bridge from 1849 that was destroyed during WWII.
Castle Hill–Home to Buda Castle, Hungarian National Gallery, Budapest History Museum, and National Széchényi Library. This historic quarter is also home to Sandor Palace (official residence of President of Hungary), Hungarian National Archives, and the beautiful Gothic Matthias Church. Tunnels and caves underneath are for the adventurous. You could spend a whole day just on Castle Hill!
Buda Castle Funicular–A tram ride up the hill. You must have tickets before you go and they can only be purchased at select Budapestinfo Offices.
Hungarian Parliament--The third largest in the world and modeled after the Parliament in London
St. Stephens Basilica–One of the most important ecclesiastical buildings in Hungary and a major attraction. It can seat up to 8000 people.
Dohany Street Synagogue–Tied with Amsterdam Synagogue as the largest in the world
Andrassy Avenue ending in Heroes’ Square, the gateway to City Park.
Sczechenyi Thermal Bath and Swimming Pools–It is one of the largest bathing complexes in Europe with 21 pools. Wow!
Margaret Island–Otherwise know as “Budapest’s Central Park”

Oh my goodness! There is so much to see and do in Budapest. Way more than a day so it is a wonderful thing you are staying overnight in Budapest. The nice thing about a river cruise is you will get a chance to spend a little time in Budapest and see what you might like to come back later and do. If you are traveling on your own, even for just the day, you might be interested in a Budapest Card. Pay one price and have free admission and discounts for many Budapest attractions.

Day 3–Vienna, Austria

The next stop on the AmaWaterways Iconic Christmas Market cruise is the breathtaking city of Vienna! What could be more magical than strolling through stall after stall laden with traditionally handcrafted treasures, magnificent aromas of gingerbread, piping hot waffles, and mulled wine and listening to open-air concerts or Mozart as you shop. Start the day with the choice between two different excursions.

Guided Options in Vienna

The “Imperial Vienna” tour–Revel in the beauty of the Vienna Opera House, the former Imperial Palace of the Hapsburgs and end up in the gorgeous historic city center. Then, off to take in the sights, sounds, and traditions of the Austrian holiday at the Rathaus (Town Hall) Christmas market.
A bicycle ride through the city of Vienna taking in the sights at a little slower pace.

During the afternoon you may choose to join the visit to Schonbrunn Palace (former Imperial summer residence) and the magnificent Christmas market. Don’t miss the giant, sparkling Christmas tree.

End the day with Vienna all lit up and shining at the Maria Theresaplatz Christmas market in the heart of the Ringstrasse. Also, visit the illuminated Rathahus, Vienna’s Largest Christmas market.

On your own in Vienna

The day they have planned for you gives you a wonderful taste of Vienna as well as the Christmas markets, the focus of your cruise experience. But, if you want to go out on your own and focus on just a couple of places, here are some suggestions:

Hofburg Palace Complex–And I do mean complex! It is 2.5 million square feet with 18 wings, 19 courtyards, and 2,600 rooms. Phew! Don’t miss the Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum (dedicated to Empress Elizabeth of the late 1800s), and the Silver Collection.
Schonbrunn Palace–The summer residence of the Imperial Hapsburgs. If you are touring both palaces purchase a Sisi ticket to save some money.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral–A gorgeous mishmash of architectural styles. The tile pattern on the roof is astounding!
Museumsquartier–Even though this area looks baroque on the outside, inside the more than 70 museums, galleries, theaters, cafes and restaurants you will discover Vienna’s vibrant contemporary art scene.
City Hall (Wiener Rathaus)–Built in the 1800s in Neo-Gothic style. Located nearby is a fabulous Christmas market.
Enjoy Wiener Schnitzel at Schnitzelwurt.
Ride Wiener Risenrad, Vienna’s giant ferris wheel.

Day 4–Melk, Austria

Guided options in Melk

Melk, Austria is a small, picturesque little town watching over the Danube right where it enter the Wachau Valley. This little town is best know for the impressive Benedictine Abbey perched above the Danube. The magnificent Baroque monastery is one of the most revered in Europe. The inside is as magnificent as the outside and also houses a famous library with more than 90,000 volumes and rare manuscripts. Touring this beautiful monastery is one tour option for this stop. The other option is a guided bike ride through the Old Town, many building date back to the 1700s.

This lovely laid-back little town surrounded by gorgeous landscapes and countryside will be a wonderful respite from the busyness of Vienna and Budapest.

Day 5–Passau, Germany

Passau, Germany is situated at the confluence of three rivers–the Danube, the Inn and the Ilz. This city, which is considered by some to be the most spectacular city on the Danube, has been around for 2000 years. The combination of the gothic and baroque architecture creates a enchanting atmosphere as you walk the cobbled streets.

Guided options in Passau

Your day in Passau will begin with a possibly difficult choice. All of the included tour options are fantastic. Here are your options for your day:

Join the “City of Three Rivers” walking tour through this 2,000-year-old city renowned for its Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture. A stunning centerpiece of the city is St. Stephen’s Cathedral which houses one of the largest organs in the world. After the tour, the rest of the day is for you to explore on your own.
Option two is a full-day excursion to Salzburg, in the Austrian Alps and the birthplace of Mozart, for a walking tour of UNESCO-designated Old Town, spectacular cathedral, and of course, Christmas market. The Hellbrunn Palace inner courtyard is the romantic backdrop for one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Austria.
The third option is a guided bicycle adventure along the Danube.

On your own in Passau

If you would like to sightsee on your own you might like:

Veste Oberhaus–A fortress atop the hill built-in 1219 meant to display the power of the Roman Empire. Overlook the city from this high vantage point and also enjoy a bit of history and art in a small museum.
Weihnachtsmarkt–A Christmas Market in the Old Town with the glorious St. Stephens Cathedral in the background.
St Stephens Cathedral–A gorgeous baroque-style cathedral with one of the world’s largest organs. If you are there on a Wednesday or Saturday you can attend an organ concert from Noon-12:30 PM.
Passau Glass Museum–Holds the world’s largest collection of European glass with over 30,000 exhibits spanning many centuries.
New Episcopal Residence (Bishop’s Palace)–Behold the display of riches of Passau when it was the capital of the largest dioceses of the Roman Empire. The Rocco stairway and the frescoes of the gods of Olympus are two special exhibits in the Museum of the Treasure of the Cathedral.
Wander down to the outside wall of City Hall and look back at the levels and years of past floods that have covered the lower parts of the city.

Day 6–Regensburg, Germany

Regensburg Germany historic center small

Regensburg Germany Walhalla building 2 small

Guided options in Regensburg

Regensburg, one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities awaits. And it marks another day that begins with a difficult choice of how to spend your day. You will have three excursion options to choose from or go out on your own. Your choices include:

You might want to take a nice overview tour of the city on foot. You will see the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria. To cap off the tour you will be able to explore the Old Town Christmas Market.
Today might be a good chance to sample some of Bavaria’s specialties. You don’t want to leave Germany without trying some of the local beer, sausages, or pretzels.
For active travelers, an option for you might be bicycling to the base of Walhalla, a neoclassical white marble temple inspired by the Parthenon in Athens that houses the German Hall of Fame.

Later in the afternoon, you will be able to visit one of Bavaria’s most beautiful and romantic Christmas markets at Thurn und Taxis Palace, a former monastary converted into an opulent palace for a family who earned their fortune in the postal business. This Christmas market is a fascinating place to watch artisans make their unique arts and crafts.

On your own in Regensburg

But, maybe you just want to strike out on your own. Some things that could interest you might be:

Old Stone Bridge–A marvel of engineering built in the 12th century and spanning over 300 meters. This pedestrian bridge was the only bridge across the river until the 1930s. There is an interesting statue to see at the hump of the bridge.
Regensburg Museum of History–Track the cultural history of Regensburg from the Stone Age to the 1800s.
Patrician Towers–In medieval times, to show wealthy families built their home up and not out. Many houses were erected from the competition to show off wealth. The attention-grabbing Goliathhaus has a mural of David and Goliath painted in 1573 on the side (this building has the restaurant David on its upper floor overlooking Regensburg). Fortress-like patrician house, Goldenes Kreuz, lines Haidplatz, the triangular “square” in the middle of Old Town that hosted medieval jousting tournaments. The tallest building at 50m is Goldener Turm and now houses university students.
Porter Praetoria–A 2nd-century rough-hewn stone gate for the northern wall that was absorbed into later buildings.
Altes Rathaus–Regensburg bright yellow 13th century Old Town Hall that has been incorporated into the later baroque new town hall. Much has been left, unchanged from the 14th and 16th centuries.

Day 7 & 8–Nuremberg, Germany

Wake up early in the morning to enjoy the scenic sailing down the Main-Danube canal as you cross the Continental Divide and Nuremberg comes into view. Nuremberg is a lovely town that has weathered many momentous events from the time of the Holy Roman Empire to the 20th century and is the last stop on AmaWaterways Iconic Christmas Market tour. The Altstadt (Old Town) is still surrounded by walls and is overlooked by a Roman Empire era castle on the north side.

Guided Options in Nuremberg

After docking you have a couple of choices if you wish to join the included excursions.

Take the city tour of WWII highlights then down the cobblestones streets to the Imperial Castle and 900-year-old ramparts. Nuremberg is home to the courthouse which held the Nuremberg Trials to judge Nazi personnel. When court is not in session it is possible to see inside the courthouse.
Option two is a gastronomic delight with Franconian specialties–bratwurst, rotbier (red beer) and lebkuchen (gingerbread).

Later in the day, you can visit Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt, one of the world’s oldest, largest, and most famous Christmas Markets.

On your own in Nuremberg

Kaiserburg Castle–Explore the towers, circular staircases, courtyards, courts and deep well bored into the sandstone. The observation deck boasts the best panoramic view of the city.
Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds–A congress hall built in the 1930s as part of an unrealized plan for the city. It now houses an exhibition on the Nazi regime.
Nuremberg Trial Memorial–Courtroom 600 of the Justizpalast can be hard to view because it is a currently working courtroom. The top floor of the building has been turned into a museum highlighting the Trials and their impact until today.
German National Museum–An enormous collection of German treasures from its cultural past in over 25,000 exhibits.
Albrecht Dürer’s House–He was possibly Germany’s greatest painter (early 1500s). This 5-story home is the only example in Europe of an artist’s home from this time period. It is one of the few burgher houses left from Nuremberg’s 15th century.
Schöner Brunnen–An amazing 19m Gothic fountain crafted in the late 1300s in the main market square. It resembles a church spire and within is carved many figures representing pilars of the Roman Empire and Church. Truly a marvel to behold. During WWII they wrapped the monument in concrete and in emerged after without a scratch.
City Walls–Take a walk along the city walls for an interesting jaunt through history.
Nuremberg Toy Museum–Just the building, the Renaissance Hallerschess Haus, is a sight to behold in the Altstadt (Old Town). Inside celebrates toys! You will find pre-War games and toys and an impressive model railway on the first three floors. Toys from 1945 and beyond (think lego, Playmobil, and Barbie) are on the top floor along with a place for kids to play.

Since Nuremberg is where you disembark the ship you can plan to take a little more time to explore this fascinating city. Or another possibility is to extend your trip with an additional 3-night excursion to Prague to explore another wonderful European city with spectacular Christmas markets, interesting history, beautiful architecture and so much more.

Phew! That is one action-packed week of wonderfulness! I hope that you enjoyed learning about this fantastic AmaWaterways Iconic Christmas Market cruise. If you have any questions please let me know! I am here when you are ready.

AmaWaterways Triple Holiday Savings!

Earn Triple Savings on your holiday cruise when you book categories BB and above. The promotion applies to select cruises.

$1,000 savings per person
$50 per person onboard credit
Complimentary category upgrade