German Autumn

10 days
Oct 2026
Museum Visits

2026

from

$3,395

per person

Best Price Promise & Private Fares
from $3,395 per person

Experience the golden autumn in Germany on a journey that takes you through the very heart of the country, showcasing the season’s most beautiful highlights. Starting in Düsseldorf, you’ll feel the charm of the city along the Rhine, where colorful leaves reflect in the water and the old town comes to life in the crisp autumn air.

Your journey continues to Koblenz, where the Moselle River flows into the Rhine. Here, vineyards glow in brilliant yellows and reds, and a walk along the Deutsches Eck invites you to breathe deeply and enjoy the peacefulness of fall. In Frankfurt, you'll discover a unique blend of tradition and modernity – with timber-framed houses in Sachsenhausen and towering skyscrapers in the financial district, all bathed in warm autumn light.

From there, travel into the Franconian wine regions. In Würzburg, admire the baroque Residenz and wander through vineyards glowing with October colors. Nuremberg captivates with its medieval charm, the scent of freshly baked gingerbread, and soft light filling the historic alleyways.

In Regensburg and Passau, two jewels on the Danube and Inn rivers, autumn is particularly atmospheric. Historic architecture is reflected in the calm water, and golden foliage lends a romantic shimmer to the riverside paths. This journey is a feast for the senses, an invitation to slow down and savor the moment – a true tribute to the German autumn in all its vibrant splendor.

Itinerary

day 1 | Düsseldorf

Rhenish lifestyle between tradition and modernity - Düsseldorf inspires with diversity! Here art and culture lovers get just as enthusiastic as shopping enthusiasts, here the Media Harbor impresses with contemporary architecture as well as the historic Old Town. The old town makes Düsseldorf with more than 250 cozy pubs to the "longest bar in the world". The traditional Altbier is not the only tasty thing here! A stroll along the Königsallee, the world-famous strolling mile, is something one does not want to miss - or rather a visit to one of the numerous sympathetic flea markets? And in the middle of it all: lots of Green and the Rhine with its riverside promenade to breathe easy . No wonder the VIVA Cruises family feels right at home here!

Rhenish lifestyle between tradition and modernity - Düsseldorf inspires with diversity! Here art and culture lovers get just as enthusiastic as shopping enthusiasts, here the Media Harbor impresses with contemporary architecture as well as the historic Old Town. The old town makes Düsseldorf with more than 250 cozy pubs to the "longest bar in the world". The traditional Altbier is not the only tasty thing here! A stroll along the Königsallee, the world-famous strolling mile, is something one does not want to miss - or rather a visit to one of the numerous sympathetic flea markets? And in the middle of it all: lots of Green and the Rhine with its riverside promenade to breathe easy . No wonder the VIVA Cruises family feels right at home here!


day 2 | Koblenz

Koblenz already impresses with its unique location at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. The first port of call when visiting the city should therefore also be the so-called "German Corner" with its imposing Kaiser Wilhelm monument. Since 2002, it has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Upper Middle Rhine Valley". A beautiful view of Koblenz and its two rivers opens up during a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. Perched 120 meters above the Rhine, the 16th-century fortification is the second largest fortress still standing in Europe. Spectacular is already the ascent in a gondola of the cable car..

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.


day 3 | Frankfurt

Connected to the Danube via the Main-Danube Canal, Frankfurt is one of the most unique cities in Germany. After all, it is the only city with a skyline of skyscrapers. A view of the metropolis from the observation deck of the MAIN TOWER is a very special experience. However, Frankfurt is not only a very modern and busy city, but also has a lot of history to offer its visitors. For example, the Römer and the Paulskirche are among the most famous historical sights in Germany. And when it comes to art and culture, Frankfurt is also an absolute hotspot. With almost 40 museums and exhibition houses, the Frankfurt Museumsufer is one of the most important international museum locations..

Connected to the Danube via the Main-Danube Canal, Frankfurt is one of the most unique cities in Germany. After all, it is the only city with a skyline of skyscrapers. A view of the metropolis from the observation deck of the MAIN TOWER is a very special experience. However, Frankfurt is not only a very modern and busy city, but also has a lot of history to offer its visitors. For example, the Römer and the Paulskirche are among the most famous historical sights in Germany. And when it comes to art and culture, Frankfurt is also an absolute hotspot. With almost 40 museums and exhibition houses, the Frankfurt Museumsufer is one of the most important international museum locations..


day 4 | Miltenberg

The charming little town of Miltenberg entered history as early as 1237 and soon achieved considerable prosperity. On the Mainschleife, the small town enchants with the most beautiful half-timbered houses, the famous gate tower "Schnatterloch" and with probably the oldest inn in Germany. Even Wallenstein stayed here. Stately half-timbered gables form the unmistakable backdrop to the medieval marketplace. Mildenburg Castle towers above the idyllic town on the mountain. Up to here the Romans had advanced to the Main and secured with a fort the strategically important place.

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.


day 4 | Wertheim

There, where the river Tauber flows into the Main, lies the small town of Wertheim. Magnificent half-timbered buildings characterize the shape of the market square. One of the sights of the town is the parish church, which dates back to the Gothic period. In its interior, the Counts of Wertheim found their last resting place, who ruled here from the 15th to the 18th century. Other tourist attractions include the glass museum and a stately castle perched on a mountain high above the town.

There, where the river Tauber flows into the Main, lies the small town of Wertheim. Magnificent half-timbered buildings characterize the shape of the market square. One of the sights of the town is the parish church, which dates back to the Gothic period. In its interior, the Counts of Wertheim found their last resting place, who ruled here from the 15th to the 18th century. Other tourist attractions include the glass museum and a stately castle perched on a mountain high above the town.


day 5-6 | Würzburg

Towering high above the Main River, this landmark is visible from afarof the city, the Marienberg Fortress. For centuries it was seat of the Würzburg prince-bishops. Already the walk across The Old Main Bridge with its oversized stone figures becomes an experience. From the Marienberg opens a magnificent Panoramic view over the vineyards and the towers of about 60 churches. The Würzburg Residence as a City Palace of the Princebishops was already in 1981 by UNESCO in the list of World Heritage Sites included. When visiting the baroque Castle on the edge of downtown reveals the courtyardgarden as a green gem

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.


day 6 | Marktbreit am Main

The town of Marktbreit is located in the south of the Main Triangle on the left bank of the Main River. Thanks to the dry and warm climate, the area is considered one of the most productive wine-growing areas in Franconia. Many inns therefore invite you to a cozy wine tasting.The historic old town of Marktbreit is under monument protection. So everywhere you come across the exciting town history, well-preserved half-timbered houses and numerous museums. One of them is located on the left in front of the old town gate in the Malerwinkelhaus. Its beautifully restored facade is one of the most beautiful and most photographed views of the city.Unconditionally worth seeing are both the towering Seinsheim Castle, which was built in 1585, and the Main Gate with the Renaissence Town Hall. On the Römerberg stands the Moritzkapelle, a former pilgrimage church from the Middle Ages, which was rebuilt in the 20th century.Only the facade and the entrance portal of the former synagogue of the Jewish religious community of Marktbreit have been preserved. The rest of the building was destroyed in the Reichsprogromnacht. A memorial plaque reminds of it..

The town of Marktbreit is located in the south of the Main Triangle on the left bank of the Main River. Thanks to the dry and warm climate, the area is considered one of the most productive wine-growing areas in Franconia. Many inns therefore invite you to a cozy wine tasting.The historic old town of Marktbreit is under monument protection. So everywhere you come across the exciting town history, well-preserved half-timbered houses and numerous museums. One of them is located on the left in front of the old town gate in the Malerwinkelhaus. Its beautifully restored facade is one of the most beautiful and most photographed views of the city.Unconditionally worth seeing are both the towering Seinsheim Castle, which was built in 1585, and the Main Gate with the Renaissence Town Hall. On the Römerberg stands the Moritzkapelle, a former pilgrimage church from the Middle Ages, which was rebuilt in the 20th century.Only the facade and the entrance portal of the former synagogue of the Jewish religious community of Marktbreit have been preserved. The rest of the building was destroyed in the Reichsprogromnacht. A memorial plaque reminds of it..


day 6 | Volkach

Volkach in Bavaria is a small town in the district of Kitzingen, picturesquely nestled in the Main Loop. The small town itself is distinguished by its multitude of historic buildings - including magnificent townhouses from the Rococo period and medieval half-timbered houses. The picturesque, cozy ambience of the old town center invites you to take a relaxed stroll and linger. Here it seems as if the clocks still stand still a little. Wine lovers also get their money's worth here. Located in the middle of Franconian wine country and surrounded by vines all around, Volkach in Bavaria is also known as a wine town. It is therefore not surprising that the small town is home to a large number of wine bars and wine taverns, where Franconian wine culture can be enjoyed to the full. Beautiful panoramas of the historic town's rooftops, lush nature and the extensive wine-growing areas of Franconia also open up from the water on the Main River.

Volkach in Bavaria is a small town in the district of Kitzingen, picturesquely nestled in the Main Loop. The small town itself is distinguished by its multitude of historic buildings - including magnificent townhouses from the Rococo period and medieval half-timbered houses. The picturesque, cozy ambience of the old town center invites you to take a relaxed stroll and linger. Here it seems as if the clocks still stand still a little. Wine lovers also get their money's worth here. Located in the middle of Franconian wine country and surrounded by vines all around, Volkach in Bavaria is also known as a wine town. It is therefore not surprising that the small town is home to a large number of wine bars and wine taverns, where Franconian wine culture can be enjoyed to the full. Beautiful panoramas of the historic town's rooftops, lush nature and the extensive wine-growing areas of Franconia also open up from the water on the Main River.


day 7 | Bamberg

The UNESCO World Heritage city of Bamberg enchants its visitors with a beautiful old town that invites you to stroll and discover. Sandstrasse, the city's most famous street, runs through the old town and is home to the Schlenkerla brewery, which has been in existence since 1405. The brewery pub is legendary and locals and tourists alike enjoy the smoked beer and Bamberg onions here. The Romanesque Bamberg Cathedral of St. Peter and St. George rises above the Sandstrasse. It is known as the imperial cathedral because the imperial couple Henry and Cunegonde are buried here. The imperial cathedral is also home to the only papal tomb north of the Alps.

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.


day 8 | Nuremberg

Nuremberg is an independent city in Bavaria, not far from Fürth. Even today you can recognize the medieval architecture that runs through the entire city. The old city walls and the imperial castle tell of days long gone. Nuremberg is famous for its Christmas market. The Christkind heralds the Advent and Christmas market season. The classic Christstollen is world famous and a real treat. Numerous museums such as the Albrecht Dürer House or the Toy Museum are popular attractions in the city.

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.


day 9 | Kelheim

Kelheim is a historic Bavarian town in Germany, situated at the scenic confluence of the Altmühl and Danube rivers. It serves as the capital of the Kelheim district and is a popular destination for travelers exploring the Altmühl Valley Nature Park.


day 9 | Regensburg

Regensburg is a very special city: more than 1,000 listed buildings make the city at the northernmost point of the Danube the only remaining medieval large city in Germany. Due to its beauty and historical significance, the city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006. Regensburg's landmark is the 12th-century Stone Bridge, which spans the Danube with 16 arches over a length of more than 300 meters. Another main sight of the city is the Gothic cathedral from the 13th century with its twin towers. Also known throughout Germany is the Valhalla, located at the gates of the city, a memorial site where important personalities are honored.

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.


day 10 | Passau

Due to its special geographical location at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau is undoubtedly one of the most unique cities in Germany. But not only the location of the city on the three rivers is exceptional, Passau also offers its visitors numerous remarkable sights. Towering above the city is the Veste Oberhaus, an impressive fortress dating back to the 13th century. The old town of Passau is known for its beautiful baroque architecture, especially the Cathedral of St. Stephen with its characteristic onion domes and the largest cathedral organ in the world with almost 18,000 pipes..

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.


What's included

VIVA All-Inclusive

  • Diner

    Full board with breakfast buffet, lunch, dinner (multi-course gourmet menus, served at the table) and snacks with free choice of table and flexible meal times.

  • Soda

    All day high quality hot and cold non-alcoholic beverages and a selection of alcoholic beverages; have a look at our bar menu

  • High Tea

    High Tea: once per trip a selection of sweet and savory treats such as scones, sandwiches, cupcakes, chocolates and macarons. A variety of teas are offered to match

  • Minibar

    daily freshly stocked minibar and reusable water bottle in the cabin

  • Sekt

    A warm welcome with a welcome champagne - here's to a wonderful stay on board

  • Beauty

    Selected beauty products from RITUALS

  • Wifi

    Free WLAN on board - for undisturbed reception

  • Service

    Tips for the entire crew


Meet your expedition cruise experts

Australia and
Latin America

DISCLAIMER: Rates are per person, subject to availability and can change at any time

Subscribe to our free newsletter

Receive exclusive offers and updates directly to your inbox


Head Office

CRUISE NORWAY
373 Broadway, Suite C1

New York, NY 10013, USA

Cruise Norway International

Tallinn, Estonia

[email protected]

Contact us

U.S. & Canada Toll Free: 1-888-538-8652
Europe & Global: +372 5299 832 / WhatsApp
Germany: +49 156 7820 3775 / WhatsApp
Australia: +61 7 537 95922 / WhatsApp
India: +91 98300 53005 / WhatsApp


About Cruise Norway
Contact Us
Home
Offers
Insights
Privacy Policy
Best Price Promise
Compare trips (0)
28 years ©2026 Cruise Norway. All Rights Reserved.