Christmas on the Main & Moselle

Tour Würzburg’s Bishops’ Residenz, one of Germany’s most ornate palaces, and visit the town’s Christmas market. Drive to the former residence of the Würzburg prince-bishop, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; built in 1719, it took 25 years to complete. Admire the overhead ceiling with its stunning, 6,400-square-foot “Four Continents” fresco painted by Venetian artist Giovanni Tiepolo. View a series of elegant rooms, the colonnaded chapel and the baroque and English-style gardens lined with ornate statues. Afterward, enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town of Würzburg, and see the Romanesque Cathedral, the Neumünster church, the market square and Town Hall, and the oldest wine bar in town. Enjoy the festive atmosphere of the Christmas market where you can sample delicious Franconian treats or a traditional aromatic glühwein as you browse the stalls for yuletide offerings.

Immerse yourself in the festive charm of Würzburg’s Christmas market, a yuletide celebration in Market Square. From your ship, set off on foot to the nearby market, a beloved local tradition since the early 19th century. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the more than 100 wooden stalls offering an array of handmade crafts, ornaments and seasonal treats at your leisure. As you stroll through the market, you may choose to indulge in traditional Franconian sausages, gingerbread or a warm cup of aromatic glühwein (mulled wine). Take in the stunning historical backdrop provided by the Gothic-style Marienkapelle and the rococo facade of the Falkenhaus. The festive spirit is further heightened by live music and performances, creating a joyous ambiance amid the holiday cheer. When you are ready, walk back to your awaiting ship.

Explore one of Germany’s last remaining walled medieval towns and browse its festive market. Drive along one of Bavaria’s prettiest roads to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the “Red Fortress above the Tauber.” Centuries ago, Rothenburg was ruled by the Holy Roman Empire and was a busy merchant city until the Thirty Years’ War and the plague threw it into poverty. It was rediscovered during the early-19th century by German Romantics. During your tour, see the picturesque Plönlein square and the Kriminalmuseum, stroll the castle garden and walk along Herrngasse, an inviting lane of old patrician houses. Enjoy free time to explore the vibrant Christmas market and browse stalls for festive handicrafts and tasty treats. After lunch, return to Würzburg and visit the Bishops’ Residenz, one of Germany’s largest and most ornate palaces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.