Christmas & New Year: From the Rhine to the Danube - MS Riviera Resplendence

Cologne is a city in western Germany located across the Rhine river. It is the oldest in Germany, dating back 2000 years and is considered the region’s cultural hub. The city is known for its iconic landmark of the twin-spired Cologne Cathedral set against the reconstructed Old Town buildings. When in Old Town, visit the historic Old Town Hall and the Roman Church Great St Martin, or take time out and sit at one of the traditional breweries and enjoy the scenery around you. Historical sites such as the Roman Dionysus mosaic and the medieval Overstolzenhaus are worth a visit too. Another iconic sight in Cologne is at Hohenzollern Bridge. Here, local and tourist couples affix padlocks to the railings of the bridge and swear their loyalty to each other, they then throw the key into the Rhein to ensure everlasting love. Cologne is home to over 30 stages providing cabaret, free ensembles, theatre and dance and also celebrates its openly gay culture.

Arrive in Cologne - Arrive in Cologne and board your ship in the late afternoon. If you're here before then, enjoy free time in Cologne.   Sit down to your first dinner on board before we begin our journey upstream, sailing overnight. 

Located in the West of the country, Koblenz is one of the oldest cities in Germany. It is situated on both banks of the river Rhine, at its confluence with the Moselle River. The beginnings of Koblenz can be traced back to its military beginnings around 8 BC. The city is rich in its history and heritage and is easily explored on foot. Take the cable car crossing over the river Rhine for spectacular aerial views or enjoy the city from the one thousand year old fortress, Ehrenbreitstein. The upper middle Rhine Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its unique landscape can be enjoyed and discovered through the interactive multimedia journey at the Romanticum. Historical and architectural sites of interest include Stolzenfels Castle, the Electoral Palace of Koblenz and Old Town. From the romantic winding streets and small squares of Old Town, stroll through the alleyways from the Church of the Holy Virgin to the St Kastor Basilica and enjoy the picturesque buildings and squares along the way. Koblenz is also very popular for its Riesling and strong Spatburgunder wines since the Romans introduced it two thousand years ago.

Koblenz & Rhine Gorge - Wake up in the historic city of Koblenz, strategically situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle. This 2,000-year-old city boasts a mighty fortress and enchanting half-timbered buildings beneath forested hillsides, offering timeless Rhineland appeal. After breakfast, discover Koblenz’s maze of medieval buildings in the Altstadt – old town – on a guided tour. As you wander, historic buildings appear seemingly at every turn; see a former mint, the Four Towers – 17th-century houses with striking turrets set at a crossroads – and many fascinating squares and churches, including the 9th-century Basilica of Saint Kastor. Later, enjoy time at leisure to peruse stalls laden with festive treats at the Christmas markets still spread across the city's historic squares, where the scent of mulled wine and seasonal delicacies fills the air beneath a canopy of twinkling lights, or sequester yourself in a cosy café and watch the world pass by. Back on board for lunch, we enjoy an afternoon sailing. As the light begins to fade, we pass through the magnificent Rhine Gorge; wrap up warm and take to the deck for an invigorating breath of frosty air as we pass through the outstandingly beautiful scenery, where the river flows a little faster, the vineyard-covered valley sides are steeper and ruined castles sit atop rocky crags. Here, where the swifter current sweeps between the narrowing valley sides that tower above, the river twists and turns towards the famous Loreley Rock, where legend has it, unsuspecting sailors were lured to their deaths by enchanting maidens. Our voyage also takes us through Boppard Bend, a dramatic 180-degree horseshoe curve that reveals the ever-changing panoramas of steep terraced vineyards, deep forests and towering clifftops. As the ship glides through these legendary stretches of river, take a moment to savour the experience with a steaming mug of Glühwein in hand. Then, enjoy dinner, surrounded by twinkling festive decorations and wrapped in the cosy atmosphere on board. 

Miltenberg is a city located in Bavaria and Southern part of Germany. Located on the banks of the river Maine the city grew from its medieval roots through Viniculture, wine trade, fishery, and general river traffic, into the established and preserved town of today. Visit the Museum Stadt Miltenberg, housed in the half timbered house called the Alte Amtskellerei (The Provost’s Office) and discover the town’s history through collections depicting culture back to the Romans. A visit to castle Miltenberg is also recommended. The castle dates back to the 11th century and is now owned by the city administration. With the castle in need of rehabilitation, the Museum Burg Miltenberg was opened to exhibit classic icons and contemporary art in a historical and significant setting. The keep of the castle, which reaches twenty seven metres high, offers picturesque views of the Main Valley below and is the perfect setting to relax and enjoy some refreshments.

Miltenberg & Wertheim on Boxing Day - Wake up in Miltenberg, a beautifully preserved medieval village whose labyrinth of winding alleys and lanes begs exploration. And so, this morning we do exactly that, as our local guide shows us the highlights of this charming destination. Backed by dense emerald-green forest, this picturesque stop-off has a feel of a Brothers Grimm fairy tale, complete with a castle nestled into the lush, tree-clad hillside. Admire the impressive gatehouse, which stands like a proud guardian of the village, and wander across the charming marketplace, lined with traditional fachwerk buildings instantly recognisable by their timber-framed grids. The story goes that locals were allowed to collect free wood from the surrounding forests, which explains the abundance of this architectural style. Highlights of this beautiful square include the trickling fountain, ornately carved from stone and complete with dancing cherubs, and the intricately detailed Gasthaus Zum Riesen, which claims to be Germany’s oldest tavern. If you would like to have more time to explore independently, you can choose a shorter orientation walk Later this morning, enjoy a festive Boxing Day brunch in the onboard restaurant, a relaxed and indulgent way to continue your Christmas celebrations as we continue our cruise, soaking in the scenic beauty of the Main. As the sun drops below the horizon, we moor in Wertheim, giving you time to soak up the festive atmosphere of this storybook wonderland, with its medieval half-timbered houses illuminated by the soft, warm glow of thousands of fairy lights, while the ancient stone ruins of Wertheim's mighty castle stand sentinel above.   We continue sailing as we sit down with a digestif after another delicious dinner on board this evening.

Würzburg is a city in Bavaria in southern Germany. It is located on the River Main and is famous for its lavish baroque architecture and Franconian wine. The Residence Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is highly recommended. It is a well known example of Baroque architecture with its acclaimed staircase, impressive frescos and imperial hall. Other impressive sites in Würzburg include the towering fortress of Festung Marienberg, the Alt Mainbrücke old bridge, which offers ideal views of the Marienberg, Dom St. Kilian cathedral and the many churches of Würzburg including the Romanesque Neumünster. Many of these sites have their own museums for visitors to learn of the history or view unique collections. Other museums of interest are the Mineralogical Museum, exhibiting the world of minerals and stones, and the Botanical Gardens, with various greenhouses and outdoor areas to enjoy. Wine lovers will find an abundance of wineries in Würzburg, offering cellar tours and wine tasting as well as traditional Bavarian cuisines and hospitality. Enjoy wine soup, Gerupfter (cheese spread) and Sauerbraten (braised beef in wine) in a friendly traditional wine tavern.

Würzburg - One of the delights of river cruising is indulging in complete relaxation, so this morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast as we cruise along the Main then perhaps catch up on some reading or simply watch the world float by. We glide into our mooring in Würzburg, one of Bavaria's loveliest riverside towns, after lunch, and take a short coach ride to the Würzburg Residence. Commissioned by the powerful Prince-Bishops of the 18th century, this UNESCO-listed palace is considered Germany’s finest example of Baroque architecture. Here, our guided tour begins with a stroll through the formal Court Garden before stepping inside to explore its lavish interiors, including the grand staircase crowned by Tiepolo’s vast ceiling fresco – one of the largest in the world. Afterwards, there’s some time to explore independently – highlights include the opulent Imperial Apartments, the Mirror Cabinet or the Court Church. We’ll then regroup and make our way into the old town, where we’ll discover the city’s rich Franconian heritage before finishing at the Old Main Bridge, lined with statues of saints and offering sweeping views of the river, vineyards and hilltop Marienberg Fortress. After dinner this evening, settle in for a captivating string performance where classical masterpieces meet familiar melodies from film and TV. After the show, we’ll continue our journey, sailing overnight to Volkach. 

Bamberg is a German town located over a landscape of seven hills and the confluence of Regnitz and Main rivers. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre with Old Town home to structures dating back to the 11th century. An iconic landmark to visit in Bamberg is the town hall Altes Rathaus, located on an island in the Regnitz and covered in murals. Bamberg Cathedral, with its four towers and numerous stone carvings, is a striking example of Romanesque architecture. Head to the Market Gardeners District and visit the historical houses where centuries ago the town gardeners would grow and export produce such as onions, seeds and liquorice. In the town centre and heart of Little Venice, the rivers and arched bridges connecting the island city are reminiscent of Venice, with a lively atmosphere and modern shops set in historical surroundings. After a day shopping, head to one of the many Brewery pubs for some popular German beer. Bamberg is famous for its beer and is where its name originated from, with the town being populated by nine traditional breweries.

Bamberg - Another day brings another new view when you draw back the curtains in your cabin. Bamberg is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe, and UNESCO has confirmed this by declaring it a World Heritage Site. Planned by Emperor Heinrich II in the 11th century as a Franconian capital as grand as Rome, Bamberg sits on seven lush green hills, akin to its Italian inspiration. Join the guided tour and see the historic old town and the impressive multi-spired cathedral; perhaps the most noticeable and intriguing landmark is Bamberg’s old town hall, which sits on an island in the middle of the burbling river, flanked by bridges on either side. From here you can also see ‘Little Venice’ – a delightful cluster of former fishermen’s houses built along the waterfront, mostly dating from the Middle Ages.  During another splendid lunch on board, we leave the Main River and join the Main-Danube Canal, as we continue on to Nuremberg. Take the afternoon to enjoy the ship’s five-star facilities, while taking in the magnificent undulating landscape as we venture deeper into this beautifully scenic region. 

Nuremberg is a medieval city located in northern Bavaria in Germany. It is Bavaria's second largest city and is noted for its iconic red roofed buildings and medieval architecture. The imperial Castle overlooks Nuremberg and was one of the most important fortifications of the Roman Empire. For more significant cultural history, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, one of the largest cultural history museums in the German speaking world, offers visitors exhibitions from Prehistoric all the way to present day. Walking tours around the city offer an enjoyable and active way to learn of Nuremberg’s history and culture. Through Old Town, discover fountains, wells, churches, and art treasures, as well as learning of the colourful past and cosmopolitan present of the city and its people. Nuremberg is also home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, where visitors can purchase traditional handmade decorations and enjoy the famous gingerbread, mulled wine, and grilled sausage from over one hundred and eighty wooden stalls.

Nuremberg - Nuremberg is often remembered for its role in WWII, notably as the site of major Nazi rallies and, later, the historic war crime trials. But beyond its infamous history, the Bavarian city captivates visitors with its cobbled streets with classic half-timbered houses, an enchanting castle (rebuilt after wartime bombings) and many historic landmarks. These include the Church of Saint Lawrence, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the intricate Church of Our Lady, which features a working mechanical clock dating from 1506 and overlooks the bustling Hauptmarkt square – renowned for its elaborate fountain resembling a Gothic church tower. This morning you have two choices:  Choose to explore Nuremberg's medieval heart on a panoramic coach tour, seeing many of the city's most famous monuments and learning about its rich history before arriving near the Hauptmarkt, where you'll enjoy free time to explore the Old Town at leisure. You might stroll along picturesque Weißgerbergasse, one of Germany's best-preserved medieval streets, admire the Church of Our Lady or pause beside the aptly named Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain).  The panoramic coach tour culminates in a visit to the imperial Nuremberg Castle. Once a residence of the Holy Roman Emperors, the fortress features the opulent Knights’ and Imperial Hall, a Romanesque double chapel, and engaging exhibits that explore the inner workings of the empire. Enjoy sweeping views from Sinwell Tower and peer down into the Deep Well before continuing to the old town for a guided walk highlighting key medieval landmarks such as Hauptmarkt Square - home to the enchanting Christmas Markets - the Old City Hall, the Church of Our Lady and the timber-framed house of celebrated Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer, before finishing at Schöner Brunnen. Returning to the ship for lunch, there’s plenty of time to relax and enjoy the views along the Altmühl Valley, with its dramatic limestone outcrops, castles and historic towns. We continue sailing during dinner this evening and overnight, traversing a remarkable series of locks that carry us to the summit of the Main–Danube Canal before descending towards Kelheim. 

Regensburg is a medieval city of Bavaria in southeast Germany. It is situated on the northern point of the Danube River at its confluence with the Regen and Naab rivers. The city is famous for its iconic 12th Century stone bridge and sixteen arches, crossing the Danube into Old Town and is the oldest preserved bridge in Germany. Regensburg is also noted for its 13th Century Regensburg Cathedral and Gothic twin spires that feature prominently on the city’s skyline. Recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, the city is home to many preserved sites. Visit the the 2nd Century Porta Praetoria which served as the north gate to a Roman camp and St Peter’s Cathedral, with its French Gothic architecture. Also the 18th Century Thurn and Taxis Palace and the Old Town Hall, which is now home to the Imperial Diet Museum, are also worth a visit. Regensburg benefits from lots of parks and gardens for visitors to relax in, as well as walks and cycle paths along the banks of the rivers.

Regensburg on New Year’s Day - After an exciting evening welcoming in the new year, you can enjoy a slower start to the morning. Rest on board and linger over breakfast or join our local guide mid-morning for a tour of Regensburg.   Formerly an important garrison guarding the most north-westerly point of the Roman Empire, whose camp gate, the Porta Praetoria, can still be seen, we take in the sights of its historic, UNESCO-protected centre. See the wealthy merchants’ houses, the Old Town Hall. Stroll along the iconic stone bridge; see the Altes Rathaus – the seat of the Diet, or parliament, of the Holy Roman Empire from 1663 to 1806 – and gaze in wonder at the Gothic cathedral. Regensburg calls itself ‘Germany’s medieval miracle’, and it’s hard to argue as you wander along the glorious winding streets and elegant squares of the old town.  We wave goodbye to Regensburg during lunch and sail through the afternoon. Join us later for high tea – cups that clink and cakes that disappear a little too quickly, accompanied by enchanting riverside scenery. 

Passau is a German city located in the Southeast of Germany on the Austrian border. It is situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The Three Rivers City, as it’s also known, is unique for its three contrasting currents of blue, green and black. Old Town of Passau is home to towering buildings of striking architecture: the majestic fortress Veste Oberhaus, the Pilgrimage Church Mariahilf and St Stephen's Cathedral. Many of Passau’s attractions can be found in this area, including the New Bishop’s Residence, the Gothic Town Hall, as well as many churches and museums. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront promenades and romantic lanes whilst enjoying the picturesque landscape. For modern art, The Museum of Modern Art and Glass Museum Passau are recommended as they offer something a bit different. Theatre and cabaret are a popular evening pastime, with performances at the former Prince Bishopric Theatre or some lively cabaret and Jazz at the Scharfrichterhaus. Visitors will also find many traditional local Bavarian and Austrian cafes and restaurants offering a cosy atmosphere with home cooked food from local produce.

Passau - Another day dawns as our journey brings us to Passau, the last town we stop at in Germany, nestling at the convergence of three rivers: the Danube, Inn and Ilz. After breakfast, you have the choice of two excursions: Take the opportunity to explore the ‘Three Rivers City’, overlooked by the Veste Oberhaus, a 13th-century hilltop fortress, on our guided tour. The old town below is known for its Baroque architecture, including Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, where the world’s largest cathedral organ sounds (currently under renovation).  If the weather allows, you may instead choose to join a guide on an active hike to Veste Oberhaus. Reaching the 13th-century defensive fortress requires a picturesque hike along a steep, wooded path with loose rocks and occasional steps, so a good level of fitness and appropriate footwear are a must. As your reward, once we reach the top, we'll be treated to superb views of the city and into Austria. The Veste Oberhaus, built by the prince-bishops, majestically overlooks Passau with an air of authority. For nearly 600 years, this castle symbolised power and strength, serving as a fortress that protected the prince-bishops from both internal and external threats. The citizens of Passau often rebelled against the ruling bishops, striving for greater independence. However, all of these attempts were in vain. The steadfast castle withstood numerous challenges throughout the centuries.  Back on board, make sure to keep an eye on the superb views slipping silently by as we cross into Austria. It’s a country synonymous with breathtaking scenery, but this beautiful section of the Danube Valley is still something of a secret – wrap up warm and head up to the Sun Deck for the best views.

Melk is an Austrian town situated on the River Danube. Located west of Vienna, the town is mostly famous for its 11th Century Melk Abbey, a magnificent monastery built high above the town. Melk Abbey is the largest example of Baroque architecture in the Wachau Valley, with the valley itself awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2000. Its steep terraced vineyards mean vinters cultivate with traditional manual practices and the springtime sees this unique landscape covered in apricot tree blossoms. Strolling around the streets of Melk Old Town, visitors will find the Town Hall Square, the Main Square, the old Post Office, now a local museum, Old Abbey Tavern, and Kremser Strasse. River cruises, self-guided walking tours and cycle tours are also extremely popular around Melk, as the Wachau Valley offers unique landscape to be explored and enjoyed. Art festivals and Baroque music is celebrated each year with the Melk Baroque Days, an international festival.

Melk - On a striking rocky bluff above the town of Melk is the enormous Benedictine Abbey, which we visit this morning. This extraordinary building was originally a castle that was subsequently bequeathed to the Benedictine order during the 11th century and has been a monastery ever since. Reconstructed in full Baroque style during the 18th century, the Abbey has many fine rooms and a stupendous library with 100,000 priceless volumes, including some intricate illuminated manuscripts. After the tour, explore the grounds or take a stroll back to the ship through the picturesque old town, with buildings dating back to the 15th century.  As lunch is served, we cruise downstream through the delightfully picturesque Wachau Valley – considered one of Europe’s most enchanting river valleys. Slip past a dramatic, quiet landscape of frost-dusted terraced vineyards, towering medieval ruins, and steep riverbanks enveloped in mist before approaching our next destination: Vienna, the city of Strauss. The main event this evening is the ‘Chef’s Dinner’, when the chef prepares his superb ‘signature’ dishes for you to enjoy in the splendid surroundings of the ship’s restaurant. Afterward, to celebrate Vienna’s wonderful legacy, we have arranged a recital on board by a quartet of talented classical musicians. Listening to this exquisite music while in the city of its creation makes a wonderful finale to the day. 

Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.

Vienna - The very name “Vienna” provokes images of elegance, fine music, wide boulevards, Baroque architecture and a rich tapestry of peoples who were drawn here from all corners of Europe. For 200 years until the First World War, Vienna was the cultural centre of Europe and many of the showpiece buildings, galleries, aristocratic palaces and magnificent churches you see today were built to reflect its imperial status. The city’s most iconic monument is the breathtaking Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, whose striking multi-coloured roof and huge Gothic South Tower dominate the skyline. There’s also the colossal Hofburg, the former royal court that is now home to a collection of museums, the Crown Jewels and the Spanish Riding School, and where the Vienna Boys’ Choir performs. Then there are the lavish Imperial Apartments and an outstanding collection of relics of the Holy Roman Empire, including, allegedly, the sabre of Charlemagne himself.   This morning we have a tour with a local guide offering insights into why Vienna is one of Europe’s great capitals – the seat of the Habsburg emperors and home to some of the world’s finest classical composers, including Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart and, of course, a whole family of Strausses. After the panoramic tour on coach along the Ringstrasse, the famous boulevard, built where the city walls once stood and lined with many of the most important sights, you can choose to continue your tour on foot through the old town or explore independently.  During the afternoon you’re free to explore as you wish. Take a stroll in the Prater, notable for the huge Ferris wheel that features in several Cold War spy thrillers. Or, for something quite different, visit The Kunsthistorisches Museum, which contains the world’s fourth largest collection of paintings, is just across the road. Perhaps, though, just take a stroll through Vienna’s atmospheric side streets, or enjoy a coffee and a slice of delicious Sachertorte in one of the lovely coffee houses. We spend our last night onboard moored in Vienna.  Personalise your holiday - Visit the Spanish Riding School in Vienna  * Duration: 1hr * Price: From £35pp (2027)  Enjoy a visit to the Spanish Riding School, the only institution in the world that has practiced classical equitation in the Renaissance tradition of the haute école for over 440 years and continues to do so. On this guided tour you will get a glimpse behind the scenes, see the stables of the Lippizaner horses, the training grounds and learn about the history, equestrian traditions and horses. Please note for 6 weeks in summer, the horses are on their holiday, therefore you won’t see any during the tour. This optional excursion can be done during your free afternoon in Vienna. This guided tour doesn’t include a performance of horses. Other available events like the morning training sessions and performances vary depending on the day of the week of your visit and season. Details can be found on www.srs.at/en/tickets-events/ where we recommend you book your tickets directly prior to travel. Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run. Please note: Private transport is not included. City shuttles are available or a private transfers can be arranged via the Cruise Director. Personalise your holiday - Guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace & gardens in Vienna * Duration: 4hrs * Price: From £74pp (2027) Join us for a tour of Schönbrunn Palace with a local guide. Once a summer residence in the countryside, Schönbrunn now serves as an oasis of architectural beauty and tranquillity in the heart of 21st-century Vienna, thanks to the city's expansion. On our guided tour we’ll see the palace’s highlights, including the state rooms and private apartments of the Habsburg emperors. Besides the tour of the palace, you will also see the impressive grounds, walking along the main avenue to the aptly named "beautiful" fountain. You will have some free time to explore at leisure, before returning to the ship. This optional excursion can be done during your free afternoon in Vienna. Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.

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