7Nights

Main River Discovery Frankfurt - Nuremberg 2025

Die Alte Oper in Frankfurt bei Nacht und mit einem weihnachtlich beleuchteten Brunnen im Vordergrund. Es rieselt Schnee
Woman and child with hat and scarf smiling at a Christmas market at night with string lights in the background.

Highlights of the Main Discovery Cruise

On this cruise, moments become lifelong memories!

From Frankfurt to Aschaffenburg, Wertheim, Würzburg, Schweinfurt and Bamberg to Nuremberg.

Start in Frankfurt, finish in Nuremberg. Along the River Main, you will experience a journey back in time to the Middle Ages. In Aschaffenburg, you can visit the impressive Johannisburg Castle. Continue to charming Wertheim - a small medieval town. Würzburg is famous for its baroque and rococo style buildings, especially the 18th century Würzburg Residence, with its magnificent rooms, a large fresco by the Venetian artist Tiepolo and a richly decorated staircase. With its numerous wine taverns, wine cellars and wineries as well as the characteristic Bocksbeutel, Würzburg is the heart of the Franconian wine region. And then comes B for Bamberg (or B for beer) - famous for its well-preserved medieval townscape and breweries. Finally, the cruise ends in Nuremberg, where you will discover the historic old town with the Imperial Castle and the Albrecht Dürer House.

Christmas tree with many lights next to an illuminated historic building at Römerberg in Frankfurt at night.

Frankfurt

Here I am human, here I am entitled to be. This quote from Frankfurt's most famous son - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe - actually comes from his "Faust", but it also applies wonderfully to his home city. You will find modern financial buildings stretching high into the sky as well as an old town with historic buildings and half-timbered houses. And if you simply want to unwind on this river cruise, take a long walk along the beautiful banks of the Main.

Historic Old Main Bridge in Würzburg at dusk with illuminated baroque statues and towers of the city in the background

Würzburg

The wine in Würzburg really is excellent. Situated in a basin, Würzburg could be described as the young old city. Its 1,400 years of history can be seen in the cityscape. The Würzburg Residence, for example, is one of the most important buildings of the late Baroque period, and the Hall of Mirrors is considered to be the most perfect rococo work of spatial art. The city is also youthful because of the many students who have brought cafés, bars, modern culture and concerts with them. And the "party cellars" - a special feature of Würzburg's nightlife.

Christmas-decorated marketplace in Aschaffenburg at night, with illuminated stalls and a large Christmas pyramid in the center.

Aschaffenburg

Aschaffenburg shines with its fascinating blend of history, culture and scenic beauty. Immerse yourself in the majestic world of Johannisburg Palace, one of the most important Renaissance buildings in Germany, and explore its magnificent rooms and gardens. Stroll through the picturesque old town with its charming half-timbered houses and historic squares before making your way to the Pompejanum, a replica of a Roman villa that offers a fascinating insight into ancient life.

Itinerary

Route map Main Experience Frankfurt-Nuremberg with the ports Frankfurt am Main, Aschaffenburg, Wertheim, Würzburg, Schweinfurt, Bamberg, and Nuremberg.
Route map Main Experience Frankfurt-Nuremberg with the ports Frankfurt am Main, Aschaffenburg, Wertheim, Würzburg, Schweinfurt, Bamberg, and Nuremberg.

Ho ho ho, it's Christmastime: Frankfurt has a lot to offer in winter, whether it's trying delicious food at the Christmas market, marveling at the view from one of the many skyscrapers or exploring Roman history in the old town.

Christmas market in Frankfurt at night with the Fountain of Justice in the foreground. Festively lit stalls and many people, surrounded by historic buildings under a clear dark sky.

Aschaffenburg offers its visitors a variety of sights and attractions: Ranging from historic buildings to romantic Christmas markets, there is something for everyone to enjoy here. Another absolute highlight is the imposing Johannisburg Castle. From its towers, you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the festively shining old town and the River Main.

Christmas-decorated marketplace in Aschaffenburg at night, with illuminated stalls and a large Christmas pyramid in the center.

Trips

Join us through the picturesque town of Aschaffenburg, where culture and history meet nature. From the berthing place, you walk to the high bank of the Main, where the Pompejanum, the world's only replica of a Roman villa from Pompeii, stands in the castle gardens. Walk through the park to Johannisburg Castle, one of the most important palace buildings of the late German Renaissance. Marvel at the enormous four-winged complex, which was built between 1605 and 1614. Then explore the old town with its festively decorated Christmas stalls. Stroll through winding streets to the Franconian-style nativity scene with life-size wooden figures.

price:

€ 52.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Christmas-decorated marketplace in Aschaffenburg at night, with illuminated stalls and a large Christmas pyramid in the center.

Wertheim's well-preserved town walls, narrow alleyways and richly decorated half-timbered houses make it the perfect setting for a winter wonderland. The town square shines in festive splendor and one of Germany's largest castle ruins sits high above the town. Wertheim is described as the most beautiful stop on a journey along the River Main. Put this statement to the test on your festive cruise!

Two women explore Strasbourg and stand in a doorway, both looking upwards.

Trips

The ruins of Wertheim Castle are located high above the old town centre at the confluence of the rivers Main and Tauber. Our little train will take you in comfort to the most beautiful and largest ruined stone castle in southern Germany. During a tour, you will discover the beautifully restored and stuccoed banqueting halls, as well as the keep and the altane. Enjoy the marvellous view of the old town and the castle ruins themselves. Afterwards, the little train will take you back, where you can then explore the old town on a tour. Passing the market square and the Angel Fountain, you will learn exciting stories about the special features of Wertheim.

price:

€ 32.00 per person

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

Little train and walking

level:

Moderate

Burg Wertheim thront bei strahlendem Sonnenschein auf einem Hügel, umgeben von grünen Bäumen, mit Blick auf die Stadt im Tal.

The festive season has arrived in Würzburg: the old episcopal city shines brightly on both banks of the River Main. Meanwhile, the medieval Marienberg fortress ‘overlooks’ the wintery scene. Simply marvelous!

Historic Old Main Bridge in Würzburg at dusk with illuminated baroque statues and towers of the city in the background

Trips

Come with us on a relaxing rickshaw tour through the historic residential city of Würzburg and let yourself be surprised by the charm of the small metropolis in Lower Franconia. You will pass the sights of the old town such as the Marienkapelle, the Würzburg Cathedral and the Main Bridge in comfort. Learn interesting facts about the history and life in Würzburg and enjoy the magic of Main Franconia on the streets.

price:

€ 259.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

Rickshaw and walking

level:

Easy

Hint:

No rain protection. This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Zwei Personen lassen sich auf einer Rikscha durch eine belebte Stadtstraße fahren und schauen auf ihr Handy.

Experience Würzburg in a special and comfortable way - with a personalised Velogondel that takes you through the most beautiful and exciting corners of the city! Sit back and relax while your personal driver takes you to the highlights of Würzburg, past the Main Bridge and the Marienberg Fortress.

price:

€ 259.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

Velogondel and walking

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

A woman is being driven through a park in a bicycle gondola and smiles at the camera. In the background, there is a tree and flowers.

You would like to discover Würzburg individually and not walk through the city with a group? Perhaps you have other interests, would like to visit the Residenz or the Marienberg Fortress? Your private tour guide will show you the most beautiful corners of the city according to your wishes.

price:

€ 329.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private tour guide

level:

Moderate

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Festung Marienberg und Alte Mainbrücke in Würzburg bei Abenddämmerung mit beleuchteten Gebäuden und ruhigem Fluss

Would you like to explore Würzburg individually and get from A to B in comfort? Then book your private minivan for up to 4 people. An expert tour guide can be booked at the same time if desired. Whether alone, as a couple or with new-found friends, explore the corners of Würzburg that you would like to see.

price:

€ 699.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Blick auf die Festung Marienberg in Würzburg, umgeben von herbstlich gelben Weinbergen und dem Main im Vordergrund.

Explore Würzburg individually as a couple and get from A to B without stress? Your driver will take you comfortably to museums, shopping or to the city's landmark, the Marienberg Fortress. An expert tour guide can be booked at the same time if desired.

price:

€ 659.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private car

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Festung Marienberg und Alte Mainbrücke in Würzburg bei Abenddämmerung mit beleuchteten Gebäuden und ruhigem Fluss

This excursion combines the impressive sights of the city with the Christmas flair of Würzburg. After a short coach journey, you will reach Marienberg Fortress, which towers majestically over the River Main. Here you can explore the impressive complex from the outside and enjoy the view of the city, the River Main and the surrounding vineyards. You then travel to the Residenz, a baroque masterpiece. During a stop in front of the imposing building, you will learn more about its history and significance. The excursion is rounded off with a visit to the Würzburg Christmas market. You can discover the variety of stalls and sample regional specialities in an atmospheric setting.

price:

€ 49.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Street at night with numerous glowing Christmas stars as decoration above the street.

At the Schweinfurt Chritsmas market, visitors can marvel at the historical sites, such as the imposing town hall, St. Johannis Church and the half-timbered facades in the old town. The ‘Georg Schäfer’ museum with its remarkable collection of European paintings is a highlight for all art lovers.

Woman and child with hat and scarf smiling at a Christmas market at night with string lights in the background.

Trips

Experience the Christmas charm of Schweinfurt and immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of Franconia. Stroll through Schweinfurt towards the Christmas market, passing historic buildings such as the town hall, which is considered one of the most important secular Renaissance buildings in southern Germany. Once you arrive at the Christmas market, a selection of typical Franconian specialities awaits you: a Franconian bratwurst, a local snack and a regional glass of wine. Enjoy Schweinfurt's festive atmosphere and listen to exciting stories from your local tour guide.

price:

€ 32.00 per person

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

View of a square in Schweinfurt at night with a fountain with statues in the foreground and historic buildings in the background

Join us on an excursion through the picturesque Franconian wine landscape, where culture and history meet. You will travel through Schweinfurt's industrial history to Werneck Castle, which is known as the little sister of the Würzburg Residence. The journey continues through idyllic wine-growing areas and wine-growing villages such as Volkach, Nordheim and Sommerach. At the famous Mainschleife, one of Franconia's most spectacular landscapes, you can make a photo stop and enjoy the view over the wide vineyards and the gently curving river.

price:

€ 59.00 per person

duration:

approx. 4 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Easy

An elderly couple stands in a green field full of vines, looking at the plants. The sky is blue and the sun is shining.

Bamberg is a magical place to visit during Christmastime, with festively decorated alleyways, idyllic half-timbered houses and a well-preserved old town built on seven hills and criss-crossed by scenic branches of the Regnitz river. Ideal for a stroll, while feasting on local delicacies and shopping for Christmas presents.

Blick auf die Altstadt von Bamberg im Herbst, mit historischen Gebäuden entlang eines Flusses bei Nacht

Trips

You will reach the romantic Franconian metropolis in just a few minutes by bus from the berth, which is located a little distance outside of the city. During an extensive tour, you will experience just how unique Bamberg is. You can still feel the charm of the past in this historic town with its cathedral, churches and monasteries, bridges, narrow streets and squares, with half-timbered houses and baroque façades. The tour takes about two hours and after some free time, the bus will take you back to the ship.

price:

€ 39.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Demanding

Historische Altstadt von Bamberg mit Fachwerkhäusern und der Regnitz im Vordergrund, unter blauem Himmel.

After a short drive from our berth, you will reach the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bamberg, known for its unique old town with historic sights such as the cathedral. Explore the city at your own pace on this excursion, whether it's a stroll through ‘Little Venice’ or a tasting of the famous smoked beer, you can organise your stay entirely according to your own wishes.

price:

€ 25.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Easy

Blick auf die Altstadt von Bamberg im Herbst, mit historischen Gebäuden entlang eines Flusses bei Nacht

The Franconian city has many attributes: Meistersinger city, Dürer city, city of the Christkindlesmarkt, gingerbread and sausages. Pick your favorite! Fancy some fun or rather culture? Or both? You're sure to find just what you're looking for.

Weihnachtsmarkt in Nürnberg bei Nacht, mit festlich beleuchteten Ständen und einem großen, geschmückten Weihnachtsbaum im Hintergrund.

Trips

Get to know the most beautiful corners of Nuremberg with your private English-speaking guide. Discover the Kaiserburg, Nuremberg's landmark, the Old Town, which retains its character despite heavy destruction during the Second World War, or the medieval city fortifications. Your guide will be pleased to meet your wishes. We recommend booking a transfer, as the berth is about 5 kilometres from the old town.

price:

€ 299.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

german tour guide only

level:

Moderate

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Blick auf die historische Altstadt von Nürnberg mit der Kaiserburg im Hintergrund, umgeben von grünen Bäumen und blauen Himmel.

Would you like to explore Nuremberg individually and get from A to B in comfort? Then book your private minivan for up to 4 people. An expert tour guide can be booked at the same time if desired. Whether alone, as a couple or with new-found friends, explore the corners of Nuremberg that you would like to see.

price:

€ 429.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

only Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Fluss in Nürnberg mit Brücken, die diesen rechts und links überspannen und historischen Gebäuden im Hintegrrund bei blauem Himmel

Explore Nuremberg individually as a couple and get from A to B without stress? Your driver will take you comfortably to museums, shopping or to the city's landmark, the Kaiserburg. An expert tour guide can be booked at the same time if desired.

price:

€ 399.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private car

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Two people are sitting on the sun deck of a river cruise ship in the sunshine. They are drinking coffee, eating a sweet treat, and looking into the distance. In the background is the river.

Experience the culinary tradition of Nuremberg and discover the sweet world of gingerbread. Visit Schmidt's world of gingerbread, where you will be introduced to the secrets of the world-famous Nuremberg gingerbread. Learn more about the centuries-old baking tradition and enjoy the opportunity to taste these delicious specialities. Afterwards, you will travel along the impressive city wall into the historic city centre of Nuremberg. During a walk, you will pass sights such as the Frauenkirche church, the ‘Schöne Brunnen’ fountain and the Imperial Castle.

price:

€ 49.00 per person

duration:

approx. 4 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Hint:

For food law reasons, the production facility at Lebkuchen Schmidt cannot be visited.

Gingerbread heart in the foreground, hanging in front of a public square in Nuremberg with many half-timbered houses

Experience the festive atmosphere of Christmas time in Nuremberg during a visit to the famous Christkindlesmarkt, one of the oldest and most traditional Christmas markets in Germany. On a walk through the historic old town, you will hear exciting anecdotes about the city's history and pass sights such as the ‘Schöne Brunnen’ (beautiful fountain). The route then takes you to the Christkindlesmarkt, where you will find traditional, often handmade Christmas decorations and sweet treats such as gingerbread. Discover the local specialities and enjoy the Christmas season.

price:

€ 49.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Christmas market in Nuremberg at dusk with illuminated stalls and the illuminated Church of Our Lady in the background

Your festive cruise ends in Nuremberg. The historic city centre itself is a living museum, dotted with Gothic churches and picturesque half-timbered houses. Make one last stop at the Albrecht Dürer House, the only surviving 16th century artists' house in Northern Europe, before setting off on your journey home.

Woman and child with hat and scarf smiling at a Christmas market at night with string lights in the background.

A-ROSA Premium all inclusive

Enjoy your most beautiful time with maximum comfort and with the all-round carefree package: A-ROSA Premium all inclusive.

Your desired cabin? Voilà! Sauna, fitness area, pool? Always at your service! Top culinary menus? Enjoy your meal! Attractive discounts on all massage and beauty treatments? Of course! Plus all transfers and many other benefits that will always put a smile on your face, while you have nothing to do but think about your next wish.

  • Full Board Plus: breakfast and lunch buffets, in the evening you choose your starters and desserts from the delicious buffet, the main courses are served at the table.
  • Tea, coffee and coffee specialities, water, soft drinks, beer, prosecco, as well as a selection of wines included throughout the day
  • Early Booking Discounts for bookings made until 31 August 2025 for cruises from November 2025 until January 2026.
  • Children up to and including 15 years accompanied by at least one supervising adult receive a 30 % discount.¹
  • One free change of reservation up to 30 days before departure
  • Comprehensive service concept with Guest Relations Management
  • Varied onboard entertainment for cruises of 7 nights or more with local performers
  • A-ROSA App with information about your cruise
  • Free use of the on-board facilities such as whirlpool and fitness room
  • A-ROSA App with information about your cruise
  • Transfer between airport or TGV train station and ship when arrival is booked through A-ROSA
  • English-speaking travel and hotel management on our international ships.
  • Toiletries as well as bathrobes on request
  • Port charges
     

¹ Children up to and including 15 years of age travel free of charge when accompanied by at least one (two in Cat. G) supervising adult on Deck 1. From Deck 2 children receive a 30 % discount. Furthermore, children up to 7 years of age accompanied by 2 supervising adults can use a sofa bed free of charge on the A‑ROSA SENA in categories B - D. On the A‑ROSA ALVA, A‑ROSA ALEA & A‑ROSA CLEA children accompanied by at least one supervising adult receive a 30 % discount. The children’s discount is only valid for the cruise itself. Limited availabilities on all cruises.
² If a flight or TGV booking is made through A-ROSA, the transfer is included. You will receive the relevant details with your travel information.

PLEASE NOTE: Transfer between railway station and ship on the Danube & Rhine can be booked for an additional fee.

Drinks Package Premium All-Inclusive Plus

Every wish will come true at the bar! Treat yourself to a wide variety of flavours. For just € 19 per night and person at the Premium All-Inclusive fare, you can enjoy the most popular cocktails, long drinks and spirits in addition to the already included premium drinks. (during bar opening hours)

Transfer railway station - Ship - railway station

You have the option of booking our transfer service from the railway station to the ship and back for € 30 per person in Cologne and Frankfurt. The transfer service is only offered on the day of embarkation and disembarkation. For further information, please see your travel information.

A-ROSA Early Booking Price for bookings made until 31 August 2025 for cruises from November 2025 until January 2026.

Choose exactly the cabin you like. If available, we will book your desired cabin with cabin number.

Dates & Prices