Main River Cruises
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6 Days Frankfurt to Nuremberg
Operator: Avalon River Cruises
6 Days Nuremberg to Frankfurt
Operator: Avalon River Cruises
8 Days Prague to Frankfurt
Operator: Avalon River Cruises
The Main River
Where does the Main River start & finish?
The Main River originates from two sources: the Red Main and the White Main, which merge near the town of Kulmbach in Germany. The river flows westward, ultimately joining the Rhine River at the city of Mainz. The Main spans a total length of approximately 525 km's (326 miles).
Architectural Timeline
Cruising the Main River offers a journey through architectural history. From the medieval structures in Bamberg to the modern skyscrapers of Frankfurt, you'll witness an evolving skyline as you sail along.
Beer & Smoked Fish
The Main passes through Bamberg, known for its smoked beer (Rauchbier) and smoked fish. Many cruises offer culinary excursions that give you a taste of these local specialities, something some of us might pass on!
Art & Culture in Würzburg
This city along the Main is home to the Würzburg Residenz, a baroque palace with the world's largest ceiling fresco. An excursion here is often a highlight, offering a glimpse into the opulence of 18th-century German nobility.
From the North Sea to the Black Sea
The Main River is that it is part of the Main-Danube Canal system, which makes it possible to travel by river from the North Sea to the Black Sea. What's surprising is that this ambitious idea dates back to Charlemagne in the early 9th century. The modern canal was only completed in 1992, fulfilling a concept that was over a thousand years in the making.
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Discover Must Do Experiences and Highlights
Miltenberg
Step into a storybook and journey through rich medieval history with a visit to Gothic St. Jakobus Church, Miltenberg Castle with its panoramic views, or Miltenberg's vibrant Market Square.
Würzburg
Marvel at iconic landmarks such as Marienberg Fortress with its sweeping city vistas or UNESCO-listed Würzburg Residence. Perhaps even sample a drop of vintage from the surrounding Franconian wine region.
Rothenburg
With its half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets, Rothenberg is a Bavarian medieval gem. Visit the Crime Museum, or explore the Marktplatz, Gothic town hall and iconic clock tower.
Bamberg
Visit Bamberg's Old Town Hall and find yourself in the middle of a bridge! Admire the fusion of architecture at Bamberg Cathedral, or wet your whistle with some 'Rauchbier' - a smoke-flavoured beer.
Nuremberg
Integral to our modern history, Zeppelin Field and the Palace of Justice are some noteworthy WWII sites to visit during your time in Nuremberg. Or choose to explore more medieval marvels at Nuremberg Castle.
Latest Reviews What our clients are saying about their journeys along the Main river
We travelled on the Vega. It was a beautiful ship. It just glides through the water, you hardly know you are moving. The cruise director, Janos, was fabulous. Nothing was too much trouble, and he was very organised. There are a few optional excursions that you can choose to go on, which are an additional cost. We did 3 of them and found them worthwhile. There is no pressure to participate, the alternate option is to stay on the ship which is no hardship.
The food was great. Beer, wine and softdrink was included at lunch and dinner and glasses were really filled up for as long as you are dining. It was great to unpack and just enjoy the cruise. Most days you woke up you were in a new town or heading towards one.
We are around 64 years of age and I think we would have been in the youngest third of the passengers. There were some quite fit 70+ year olds on the cruise. Age doesn't define the ability to be active. There were also some less active older people who were very adequately catered for. When we left the ship to go on bus or walking tours there was nearly always a buss or tour for the gentle walkers who were less mobile. There was exercise, stretch sessions on the ship every morning for those that wanted to participate.
Travelmarvel did their best to cater for all the guests and ensure everyone had as good a holiday as possible.
