Halfway between Lake Constance and the North Sea, the Rhine meets Mainz. This carnival city is known for its cheerful atmosphere and its hospitality. Why not go for a stroll along the tranquil riverbank or enjoy a good glass of local wine while you’re there? You could also visit the city’s main landmark: Saint Martin’s Cathedral. It boasts one of the richest church interiors in the Christian world. Another important building in Mainz is the Kurfürstliche Schloss (Electoral Palace). This is a prime example of the German Renaissance style of architecture.
The town describes its biggest attraction, the world-famous Drosselgasse, as ‘144 metres of joie de vivre’. This centre of Rhine Romanticism once inspired poets and musicians – it was here that Brahms composed his Symphony No. 3. Rüdesheim is the best-known spot in the Rheingau and has plenty of cultural attractions, including stately homes and fortifications. And no visit to the towns and countryside of this area of the Rhine would be complete without a Rüdesheim coffee, which was invented here.
‘Hier bin ich Mensch, hier darf ich’s sein’ (‘Here I am man, dare man to be’). This quote by Frankfurt’s most famous son – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe – actually comes from his play Faust (and the English translation by Bayard Taylor), but it is also a very fitting way to describe Goethe’s hometown. Frankfurt’s combination of modern skyscrapers housing major finance companies and the old town with its historic buildings and half-timbered houses is unique. And if you fancy a break from the hustle and bustle, you can take a leisurely walk along the lovely bank of the Main.
Welcome to Cologne! The grand Cologne Cathedral, one of Germany's most famous landmarks, thrones majestically over the city and draws everyone's attention with its impressive architecture and ornate details. Along the riverside promenade, cosy cafés, lively beer gardens and restaurants invite you to linger and enjoy, while the charming old town streets with their traditional houses, boutiques and breweries convey the flair of centuries past.
The town describes its biggest attraction, the world-famous Drosselgasse, as ‘144 metres of joie de vivre’. This centre of Rhine Romanticism once inspired poets and musicians – it was here that Brahms composed his Symphony No. 3. Rüdesheim is the best-known spot in the Rheingau and has plenty of cultural attractions, including stately homes and fortifications. And no visit to the towns and countryside of this area of the Rhine would be complete without a Rüdesheim coffee, which was invented here.
Let the Winzerexpress take you on a tour through vineyards and right into the centre of Rüdesheim. Here, the little lanes are too narrow for our trusty vehicle, so you’ll explore the old town on foot. You’ll find one of Germany’s most well-known streets here: Drosselgasse. Lined with wine taverns and bars with outdoor seating, it offers 144 metres of pure enjoyment. You’ll have the opportunity to stop off here to learn how the traditional coffee speciality ‘Rüdesheim coffee’ is made – and you’ll be able to try it for yourself, of course.
€ 49.00 per person
approx. 2.5 Hours
Winery Express and walking
Moderate
Welcome to the Upper Rhine. Speyer is over 2,000 years old and occupies a strategic location on a low terrace beside the river. It is Germany’s oldest planned medieval town. Speyer’s most prominent monument is its cathedral. As one of the country’s most important High Romanesque cathedrals, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You are sure to have an enjoyable day in Speyer.
*alternatively Germersheim, depending on availability
Immerse yourself in the past and experience the history of Speyer in a unique way. On a city walk with a tour guide in historical costume, you will be transported back to the time of emperors and kings. Stroll through the historic old town, where you will be guided through picturesque streets and past centuries-old buildings. The city's landmark is the majestic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important monuments of Romanesque architecture. Listen to exciting stories and anecdotes from Speyer.
€ 29.00 per person
approx. 2 Hours
walking
Moderate
Heidelberg was already sung about, painted and described by the Romantics. No wonder, given its location on the Neckar and the castle towering over the city! The city's landmark is one of the most famous ruins in Germany. On an outside tour around the castle, you can explore the castle courtyard and enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the Neckar valley. You will then explore the baroque Old Town with the Old Bridge, the Church of the Holy Spirit, which was completed in the 16th century, and the Haus zum Ritter. It is the most beautiful historic town house in the city. After the tour, you can have a look around on your own before travelling back to Speyer by coach.
€ 69.00 per person
approx. 4.5 Hours
Bus and walking
Moderate
This excursion will only take place if the minimum number of participants is reached before departure.
Welcome to Goethe’s birthplace! Here’s another historical fact while we’re at it: this is where the first German national assembly met in 1848. Today, the metropolis on the Main is home to the headquarters of major banks and is also one of Germany’s most important centres of business and commerce. Frankfurt is also known for its many futuristic-looking high-rises.
The skyline, its old town, apple cider - Frankfurt does not fit into any one category. And that's great, because contrasts are exciting. This combination of a city walk and a bus tour takes you to modern boulevards and along the mighty bank skyscrapers, to the quaint district of Sachsenhausen with its apple wine taverns and the historic Römerberg (Roman Mountain). The eponymous 'Roman' has been the city hall since the 15th century. No less impressive is the Baroque Hauptwache (Main Guard House), the Old Opera and the magnificent neoclassical rotunda of St. Paul's Church.
€ 49.00 per person
approx. 3 Hours
Bus and walking
Easy
Mainz bleibt Mainz (or ‘Mainz is always Mainz’) is more than a carnival motto. It is an expression of the easy-going way of life that makes the locals proud of their city, makes it easy for non-locals to settle in and helps visitors to enjoy their stay here. With over 2,000 years of history, Mainz is not just one of the oldest cities in Germany – it is also a place where you can see history come alive wherever you turn.
Mainz is not only known for its 1000-year-old history. Culinary delights also play a major role in Mainz. Mainz is surrounded by Germany's largest wine-growing region 'Rheinhessen'. On this tour you will discover the heart of Mainz's old town and have the chance to try regional wines during a wine tasting.
€ 39.00 per person
approx. 2 Hours
walking
Moderate
The city, which lies at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, offers an impressive backdrop for the turn of the year. In the evening, the riverbank is transformed into a festively illuminated scene and from the numerous vantage points, such as Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, you have a spectacular view of the fireworks. Those who prefer a quieter pace can round off the year with a delicious dinner on board.
Experience New Year's Day in Koblenz. Enjoy the first hours of the new year and be enchanted by the sights of the city. Back on board, the next culinary delights are already waiting for you. What a way to start the new year!
When modern rationality mixes with southern German nonchalance, something wonderful is created. Koblenz itself is the best example! The excursion begins with the landmark of the city: the monumental Kaiser Wilhelm monument at the Deutsches Eck (German Corner). The second landmark is the Schängel Fountain, which depicts a cheeky boy. Stroll through the romantic lanes between the Basilica St. Kastor and the Church of Our Lady, both feature impressive Romanesque two-tower façades. You will hear exciting details about the city's history along the way.
€ 29.00 per person
approx. 2 Hours
walking
Moderate
Bonn, located at the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, used to be the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany. As a seat of government, it is where many important policies were made. Make the most of the excursions on your Rhine cruise to experience the best of this 2,000-year-old city with a very eventful past. Highlights include the house where Beethoven was born and the magnificent buildings that date back to the prince-electors’ era.
Bonn used to be the capital of Germany – and there’s still a lot to see there nowadays. It’s Beethoven’s birthplace, a popular university city and home to the United Nations. Bonn has witnessed more than two thousand years of history, so there’ll be much to discover on this sightseeing tour. Afterwards, you can take a walk through the government district, where six federal ministries still have their headquarters. You’ll also see venerable buildings such as Villa Hammerschmidt and Palais Schaumburg here.
€ 55.00 per person
approx. 3 Hours
Bus and walking
Moderate
Opposite Bonn on the other side of the Rhine lies one of Germany's most legendary nature reserves - the Siebengebirge. A lovely panoramic drive will show you this beautiful landscape and take you up to the Petersberg, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the Rhine valley and the former federal capital. From here you also have a view of the Drachenfels, where Siegfried of Xanten is said to have once slain the dragon. After the Petersberg, you continue to the choir ruins before passing the northernmost vineyard in the Rhine Valley and returning to the ship.
€ 59.00 per person
approx. 3 Hours
Bus and walking
Moderate
This excursion will only take place if the minimum number of participants is reached before departure.
Bonn, located at the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, used to be the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany. As a seat of government, it is where many important policies were made. Make the most of the excursions on your Rhine cruise to experience the best of this 2,000-year-old city with a very eventful past. Highlights include the house where Beethoven was born and the magnificent buildings that date back to the prince-electors’ era.
After an exciting cruise on the Rhine, you will be docking back in Cologne today. However, before you set off on your journey home with a thousand memories of your trip, why not use the day to explore North Rhine-Westphalia and the city of Cologne? The imposing cathedral of Cologne is a must-see. See you soon and ahoy!
The rate A-ROSA Basic incl. Full Board includes the following services:
Drinks Package Premium All-Inclusive Plus
Every wish will come true at the bar! Treat yourself to a wide variety of flavours. For just € 39 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 € 25 per person in Passau and € 30 per person in Cologne. The transfer service is only offered on the day of embarkation and disembarkation. For further information, please see your travel information.
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).
