Rhine Valley Rhapsody: Culture and Beer Gardens Galore

Capture the best view of Frankfurt's skyline from this charming iron bridge.

The Eiserner Steg is the 170m/557ft iron footbridge that connects Frankfurt’s north and south banks. The bridge offers scenic views of both sides of the river, and undoubtedly the best view of Frankfurt’s famous skyline is from the Eiserner Steg looking north. Be sure to go in the evenings for the best lighting.

Check out the lovely mid-century stained-glass windows in this riverside church.

The neo-Gothic church is a Lutheran parish located directly on the south bank of the river. Visitors come mainly to enjoy the wonderful stained-glass windows by artist Charles Crodel, which were installed in 1956 to replace those destroyed in the war.

Make a visit to Frankfurt's most important art collection.

Städel is an art museum with 2,700 paintings, 100,000 drawings and prints, and 600 sculptures, including many masterpieces. The museum was founded in 1815 when the banker Johann Friedrich Städel left his priceless personal art collection to the city in his will. The exhibited art stretches back into the middle ages, however, the museum has worked hard to continuously increase its contemporary art collection as well.

North & South Banks

You can explore Frankfurt's Financial District and Jewish museums on the northern bank of the Main River and then spend some time walking along the river in Nizza Park. Once you're ready, cross the pedestrian Iron Bridge, weighted down with love locks, to the South Bank and Sachsenhausen, a district of Frankfurt that is renowned for its riverside museums dedicated to the arts and film as well as its lively restaurants and nightlife.

Take a trip across the river to see Frankfurt's laid back side.

The city of Frankfurt protected itself with a wall from 1390, and the village of Sachsenhausen was fortunate enough to be enveloped within the walls. This district still has a village atmosphere thanks to its cobblestone lanes and small squares. The Alte Sachsenhausen is located on the eastern part of the district close to the river. It is here that visitors can find traditional pubs, half-timbered houses, and narrow alleyways, and can choose from a good selection of bars and restaurants as well as music and nightlife. Be sure to try some of the famous Aplfelwein (apple wine or cider), that Sachsenhausen is famous for, with a plate of Frankfurt Green Sauce.

Find a nice bench to relax and take in the river view, and then go for a stroll with the locals.

The park is the perfect place to experience the river bank while taking in the optimistic, can-do atmosphere of this business-focused city. The park runs for 2.5km between the Lower Main Quay and the Friedensbrücke (Bridge of Peace). The park dates all the way back to the 17th century, and due to the moderate climate along the river, it's even possible to grow Mediterranean plants such as figs and olive trees. In warm weather, you'll find beer tents and other opportunities for refreshment and socializing.

Frankfurt Walking Tour, Guided

Visit the highlights of Frankfurt, and learn about the extensive and fascinating history of this diverse and historic city. Your guide will take you places that the tour buses can't, including the Römer and the Römerplatz, the Book Burning Memorial, Alte Oper, the Eisener Steg and many more!

St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral was originally a Carolingian chapel and it has been called a cathedral since the 18 th century despite the fact that it has never been an Episcopal church in the true sense. The cathedral was dedicated to Saint Bartholomew in 1239 and was later chosen as the site where elections were held to choose the next king of the Holy Roman Empire.

Between 1562 and 1792, ten coronation ceremonies took place at the cathedral. The cathedral was damaged in a fire in August 1867 and was then reconstructed in the neo-Gothic style. Again, the cathedral was severely damaged by the bombings in WWII but was completely rebuilt by 1953. In 1987, a museum was opened in the medieval cloister of the cathedral. The museum provides visitors with information on the dramatic history of the church. Opening hours: Tue–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat, Sun, public holidays 11am–5pm MONDAYS CLOSED

Frankfurt Walking Tour, Guided

Visit the highlights of Frankfurt, and learn about the extensive and fascinating history of this diverse and historic city. Your guide will take you places that the tour buses can't, including the Römer and the Römerplatz, the Book Burning Memorial, Alte Oper, the Eisener Steg and many more!

St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral was originally a Carolingian chapel and it has been called a cathedral since the 18 th century despite the fact that it has never been an Episcopal church in the true sense. The cathedral was dedicated to Saint Bartholomew in 1239 and was later chosen as the site where elections were held to choose the next king of the Holy Roman Empire.

Between 1562 and 1792, ten coronation ceremonies took place at the cathedral. The cathedral was damaged in a fire in August 1867 and was then reconstructed in the neo-Gothic style. Again, the cathedral was severely damaged by the bombings in WWII but was completely rebuilt by 1953. In 1987, a museum was opened in the medieval cloister of the cathedral. The museum provides visitors with information on the dramatic history of the church. Opening hours: Tue–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat, Sun, public holidays 11am–5pm MONDAYS CLOSED

Hike about one mile (1.6km) from the top chairlift station to this over-the-top but undeniably impressive monument celebrating German unification.

Niederwalddenkmal (Niederwald Monument, or Statue of Germania) is a gargantuan and rather bellicose monument celebrating the 1871 foundation of the German Reich after the end of the Franco-Prussian War. Until then, most people within the new empire had continued to think of themselves first and foremost as Prussians, Bavarians or Saxons, and only secondly as Germans, so the erection of national monuments such as Germania was therefore intended to awaken German national feeling.

Hike to these castle ruins overlooking the river.

From the Niederwald Monument, you can also follow the markings to the town of Assmannshausen and the picturesque medieval castle ruins of Burg Ehrenfels facing the equally romantic Mäuseturm (Mouse Tower) on an islet in the river originally used to collect river tolls until wrecked by the French in 1688. The hike from the Niederwalddenkmal to Assmannshausen takes two hours, and from there you can take a boat or train back to Rüdesheim.

Rhine Gorge Cruise

Board a riverboat from the town of Rüdesheim and take a cruise northwards up the incomparable Rhine River Gorge wreathed on either side with vineyards groaning with Reisling and Pinot Noir grapes, and colonized with impossibly romantic chateaux and castle ruins. Alternatively, hire a bicycle and pedal up the gorge, stopping off at rustic villages along the way, before heading back for a well-earned glass of the local wine.

Effortlessly ascend to the top of the hills overlooking the valley and go for a walk among the vineyards and forests.

This antique 1950s chairlift offers great views over the town and the Rhine Valley that streches away to Mainz. The upper station above many of the local vineyards is close to one of the most popular tourist sights in Germany for German tourists, the Niederwalddenkmal (Niederwald Monument, or Statue of Germania).

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Frankfurt hbf (i.e. Frankfurt Main Station) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Frankfurt hbf (i.e. Frankfurt Main Station) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Frankfurt hbf (i.e. Frankfurt Main Station) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Frankfurt hbf (i.e. Frankfurt Main Station) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

The light and colors of this historic city are a happy sight to behold.

The Old Town of Heidelberg, Germany, seduces with its views. Framed by the Neckar River and overlooked by the majestic Heidelberg Castle, its cobblestone streets, baroque architecture, and the oldest university in Germany beckon visitors. Highlights include the Hauptstrasse, a bustling pedestrian shopping street, and the historic Holy Spirit Church. Heidelberg's Old Town embodies the romantic spirit of Germany.

Founded in 1386, this is Germany’s oldest and one of its most prestigious universities.

The university is currently comprised of 12 faculties with over 30,000 German and international students enrolled. The college is known for its reputable science, art, law, and medical programs. The most historic facilities are located around the Universitätsplatz and dominated by the Alte Universität (Old University, 1712–28; on the south side) and the Neue Universität (New University, 1931; on the north side).

Guided Walking Tour of Heidelberg

On this 4 hour tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Heidelberg and help you understand what makes this city so unique. Sites visited will include the Heidelberg University, the Old Bridge, Altstadt, Town Hall and Heidelberg Castle.

The light and colors of this historic city are a happy sight to behold.

The Old Town of Heidelberg, Germany, seduces with its views. Framed by the Neckar River and overlooked by the majestic Heidelberg Castle, its cobblestone streets, baroque architecture, and the oldest university in Germany beckon visitors. Highlights include the Hauptstrasse, a bustling pedestrian shopping street, and the historic Holy Spirit Church. Heidelberg's Old Town embodies the romantic spirit of Germany.

Black Forest, Guided, by Vehicle

With over 6,000 square kilometres of rolling hills, magnificent mountains, and pristine old forests, the Black Forest (Schwarzwald in German) is truly a national treasure. Outdoors enthusiasts travelling to Heidelberg are not to miss out on a visit to this incredible region filled with some of Europe’s best hiking and mountain views.

Black Forest, Guided, by Vehicle

With over 6,000 square kilometres of rolling hills, magnificent mountains, and pristine old forests, the Black Forest (Schwarzwald in German) is truly a national treasure. Outdoors enthusiasts travelling to Heidelberg are not to miss out on a visit to this incredible region filled with some of Europe’s best hiking and mountain views.

Black Forest, Guided, by Vehicle

With over 6,000 square kilometres of rolling hills, magnificent mountains, and pristine old forests, the Black Forest (Schwarzwald in German) is truly a national treasure. Outdoors enthusiasts travelling to Heidelberg are not to miss out on a visit to this incredible region filled with some of Europe’s best hiking and mountain views.

Black Forest, Guided, by Vehicle

With over 6,000 square kilometres of rolling hills, magnificent mountains, and pristine old forests, the Black Forest (Schwarzwald in German) is truly a national treasure. Outdoors enthusiasts travelling to Heidelberg are not to miss out on a visit to this incredible region filled with some of Europe’s best hiking and mountain views.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Heidelberg Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and the local tram network stops directly in front of the station. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is not yet available in Heidelberg.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Heidelberg Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and the local tram network stops directly in front of the station. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is not yet available in Heidelberg.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Heidelberg Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and the local tram network stops directly in front of the station. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is not yet available in Heidelberg.

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Heidelberg Hbf station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and the local tram network stops directly in front of the station. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags. Uber is not yet available in Heidelberg.

Highlights Walking Tour of Cologne

Your private guide will pick you up from your hotel. During this 2-hour walking tour, you will have a chance to get to know many interesting facts about the history of Cologne and visit the biggest highlights of the town. Among the others you will see: Cologne Cathedral, Hohenzollern Bridge, Roncalliplatz, Rheinboulevard, Heumarkt & Alter Markt, Hänneschentheater, Cologne City Hall, Typical Kölsch brewery. After the end of the tour the guide will be happy to give you the recommendations for the rest of your stay in Cologne.

See Germany's most visited landmark for yourself and then climb a tower that was once the tallest in the world.

Construction began in 1248 but was paused in the 1500's and did not continue until the 19th century. Once completed in 1880, it was the tallest building in the world and to this day it has the tallest twin spires of any Gothic church in the world. The towers’ spires reach a height of 157 m (515 ft). The cathedral is as large as it is strong. During WWII the church was struck with 14 aerial bombs; its enormous size made it a good landmark for the Allied aircraft bombers. Although it was badly damaged by these attacks, it remained standing. The cathedral is home to many treasures, such as the high altar which was constructed in 1322 and is made out of solid black marble. Its most celebrated work of art is the Shrine of the Three Kings. The golden structure is believed to hold the remains to the Three Wise Men, whose remnants were brought from Milan in 1164. Those with a strong constitution can climb 533 steps to a viewing platform on the south tower.

Highlights Walking Tour of Cologne

Your private guide will pick you up from your hotel. During this 2-hour walking tour, you will have a chance to get to know many interesting facts about the history of Cologne and visit the biggest highlights of the town. Among the others you will see: Cologne Cathedral, Hohenzollern Bridge, Roncalliplatz, Rheinboulevard, Heumarkt & Alter Markt, Hänneschentheater, Cologne City Hall, Typical Kölsch brewery. After the end of the tour the guide will be happy to give you the recommendations for the rest of your stay in Cologne.

See Germany's most visited landmark for yourself and then climb a tower that was once the tallest in the world.

Construction began in 1248 but was paused in the 1500's and did not continue until the 19th century. Once completed in 1880, it was the tallest building in the world and to this day it has the tallest twin spires of any Gothic church in the world. The towers’ spires reach a height of 157 m (515 ft). The cathedral is as large as it is strong. During WWII the church was struck with 14 aerial bombs; its enormous size made it a good landmark for the Allied aircraft bombers. Although it was badly damaged by these attacks, it remained standing. The cathedral is home to many treasures, such as the high altar which was constructed in 1322 and is made out of solid black marble. Its most celebrated work of art is the Shrine of the Three Kings. The golden structure is believed to hold the remains to the Three Wise Men, whose remnants were brought from Milan in 1164. Those with a strong constitution can climb 533 steps to a viewing platform on the south tower.

Walk through one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe and marvel at the colorful Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

First built in 805 AD (although with later Gothic additions) the cathedral is one of the most historic in Europe. Indeed it was the first place in Germany to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Over 30 coronations of the King of the Romans took place here. Somewhat confusingly, King of the Romans was the title assumed by the kings of the Germans until they could be crowned Holy Roman Emperor by the pope. The cathedral is the burial site of Charlemagne, who founded the Holy Roman Empire and is considered one of the most important figures in all of European history. The Cathedral Treasury is also home to many sacral art treasures including the Cross of Lothair, the Bust of Charlemagne, and the Persephone sarcophagus. It is recommended that visitors take the Treasury audio guide for more information on the displays.

Experience the thermal springs which first drew settlers to Aachen.

There are more than 30 mineral-rich springs in the Aachen area. One of these springs, the so-called “Rosenquelle”, is located directly beneath the city and continuously supplies the Carolus Thermen with fresh mineral water of 47° celsius (116° F) temperature. With eight indoor and outdoor pools of various temperatures and several other interesting features, it is one of the city's most visited baths.

Smell and taste the sulphurous minerals springs which symbolize the city’s long history of thermal baths.

Located in a neo-classical pavillon built in 1827, you'll find two drinking fountains where you can try the water for yourself. They are prominently featured in a park in the city center, but if you have any trouble finding them, just follow the smell of the sulfur.

Aachen Excursion

Less than an hour from Cologne by train you'll discover Aachen, a small spa city located snugly next to the border with Belgium and the Netherlands. The city is famous not only for its thermal water, but also for its historical ties to the greatest and first Holy Roman Emperor, Charlemagne. Aachen was the place where he and 31 other Holy Emperors were crowned King of the Romans, although in reality it was mostly Germans that they ruled over. Visitors can explore the Charlemagne Route, visit a spa, enter the jaw-dropping cathedral, or just take in the charming ambience of a city whose story stretches back to Roman times.

See the 14th-century city hall built where the coronation feasts were held, and visit a museum exploring Aachen's past.

The Rathaus, or city hall, is still the seat of the mayor and city council. A museum gives visitors a sense for the lavish coronation banquets that took there. Next door in the Center Charlemagne, visitors learn about Charlemagne and other city history, stretching back into antiquity. For instance, it explains how the first settlements were built around the thermal springs and how it later became a Roman bath.

Walk through one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe and marvel at the colorful Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

First built in 805 AD (although with later Gothic additions) the cathedral is one of the most historic in Europe. Indeed it was the first place in Germany to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Over 30 coronations of the King of the Romans took place here. Somewhat confusingly, King of the Romans was the title assumed by the kings of the Germans until they could be crowned Holy Roman Emperor by the pope. The cathedral is the burial site of Charlemagne, who founded the Holy Roman Empire and is considered one of the most important figures in all of European history. The Cathedral Treasury is also home to many sacral art treasures including the Cross of Lothair, the Bust of Charlemagne, and the Persephone sarcophagus. It is recommended that visitors take the Treasury audio guide for more information on the displays.

Private Airport Dropoff

A car service will pick you up from the N/A and deliver you to Cologne Bonn Airport for your flight departure. This is a private transfer just for your travel party, and you will not need to pay the driver for the transfer, as it is already included in the cost of the itinerary.

Private Airport Dropoff

A car service will pick you up from the N/A and deliver you to Cologne Bonn Airport for your flight departure. This is a private transfer just for your travel party, and you will not need to pay the driver for the transfer, as it is already included in the cost of the itinerary.

Private Airport Dropoff

A car service will pick you up from the N/A and deliver you to Cologne Bonn Airport for your flight departure. This is a private transfer just for your travel party, and you will not need to pay the driver for the transfer, as it is already included in the cost of the itinerary.

Private Airport Dropoff

A car service will pick you up from the N/A and deliver you to Cologne Bonn Airport for your flight departure. This is a private transfer just for your travel party, and you will not need to pay the driver for the transfer, as it is already included in the cost of the itinerary.