Luxembourg Cruise from Wasserbillig to Nuremberg — 8 Days

Wasserbillig, Luxembourg

Wasserbillig sits where the Moselle meets the Sauer, at Luxembourg’s eastern edge. Across the river, Germany’s Wasserbilligerbrück is just a short crossing away. Nearby vineyards produce crisp white wines, including the region’s signature Riesling. Walk the riverfront, visit Wasserbillig Aquarium, or take a train to Luxembourg City. The town also marks Luxembourg’s lowest elevation, about 130 metres above sea level.

Bernkastel-Kues, Germany

Bernkastel-Kues sits among steep Moselle vineyards, where Riesling has shaped the landscape and local life for centuries. In Bernkastel, the medieval market square gathers timber-framed houses around its 17th-century fountain, with the famously narrow Spitzhäuschen close by. Cross the river to quieter Kues, birthplace of 15th-century scholar and cardinal Nicholas of Cusa. Come ashore for a riverside stroll, a glass of crisp Moselle wine, and a town best explored on foot.

Cochem, Germany

Cochem makes a strong first impression: Reichsburg Castle crowns a vineyard-clad hill above the Moselle. Below, half-timbered houses line narrow lanes and the riverfront. The town is small enough to explore on foot, yet its setting invites a slower pace. Taste the region’s Riesling, take a boat along the river, or visit the castle for broad views over the valley. Here, the Moselle’s pleasures are close at hand.

Koblenz, Germany

Koblenz stands where the Rhine and Moselle meet, beneath the watchful gaze of the Deutsches Eck. From here, river valleys, vineyard slopes and hilltop castles make an easy day’s exploration. Ride the cable car across the Rhine to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, whose ramparts command sweeping views. The compact old town is readily explored on foot, with cafés and riverside promenades within easy reach.

Rudesheim am Rhein, Germany

Rüdesheim is a rewarding first stop on the Rhine, with vineyards climbing steep slopes above the water. It stands at the southern gateway to the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley, famed for castles and dramatic river scenery. Explore the old lanes and Drosselgasse, then take the cable car through the vines to the Niederwald Monument. From its hilltop setting, the Rhine spreads below in a view worth lingering over.

Wertheim am Main, Germany

Wertheim stands where the Tauber meets the Main, on Baden-Württemberg’s northern edge. The compact old town rewards a slow walk among timber-framed houses and narrow lanes. Its market square recalls centuries of trade. Above it, the ruins of Wertheim Castle command broad river views. The Glass Museum traces the craft that carried Wertheim’s name beyond the valley.

Wurzburg, Germany

Step ashore in Würzburg, where Franconian wine, Baroque splendour and the Main River shape a memorable day. The Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rewards a visit for its grand staircase and Tiepolo frescoes. Cross the Old Main Bridge for views of Marienberg Fortress and vineyards climbing the surrounding slopes. Then explore the compact old town, where cafés and wine taverns offer a pause between landmarks.

Eltmann, Germany

Eltmann sits on the Main in northern Bavaria, between Bamberg and Schweinfurt, with the Steigerwald rising nearby. Its compact centre invites a leisurely walk among Franconian streets and historic buildings. Above town, the ruins of Wallburg Castle reward a woodland climb with views across the Main valley. Look for the parish church of St Michael, whose distinctive tower anchors the skyline. Eltmann offers regional character and an easy contrast to larger Bavarian cities.

Bamberg, Germany

Bamberg rewards a few hours on foot, with one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval town centres. On the Regnitz River, its UNESCO-listed Old Town brings together a Romanesque cathedral, baroque façades and half-timbered lanes. See the Old Town Hall, poised on an island, and the riverside houses known as Little Venice. Finish with Rauchbier, Bamberg’s distinctive smoked beer, in a traditional brewery tavern. Seven hills surround the city, while its compact centre keeps the main sights within easy reach.

• Land Tour (Land Tour)

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is a city of striking contrasts, where medieval streets meet the history of twentieth-century Germany. Within its old walls, the Imperial Castle rises above timbered houses, churches and the Hauptmarkt. Visit St. Sebaldus Church, then explore the Documentation Center and former Nazi Party Rally Grounds for essential context. Allow time for local gingerbread and a walk across the Pegnitz, which divides the historic centre.