Main River Cruises

The Main River is a historic and beautiful waterway that winds through central Germany. To Main River cruise Germany is to get the most immersive experience of the country, where you'll see inspiring cities, rich cultures, and more.

Cruise the historic Main River

Historically, the river served as a divider between North and South Germany, separating two similar, but different, peoples. The northern half once belonged to the North German Federation, who was responsible for one of the first unifications of the country during the 1800s. The southern half of Germany was far more conservative, a fine representation of classic Bavarian culture

Explore Frankfurt on a Main River cruise

In the present, the Main serves as a scenic way to river cruise across the country. Travelers use these river cruises year round to visit several of Germany's most exciting cities. The Main is also a popular trade route for Germany. On a Main River cruise, you'll find multiple locks along the way, and pass by other ships carrying goods throughout Europe. The Main River, as a tributary, connects the Rhine and Danube at the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal. Because of this, it's an excellent way for river cruises and traders to travel across much of Europe.

Main River Cruise Map

Cruise ships on the Main River

The Main River boasts luxurious cruise vessels with all the modern amenities voyagers expect. Cruises are tailored to guests, with varying trip lengths, destinations, and entertainment. This ensures that everyone taking a Main River cruise is able to experience Germany in a way that works for them.

When sailing the Main, you'll find historic German landmarks and exciting cities full of things to do. Along the way, cruisers will have the chance to see the landscape German river cruises are famous for -- rolling hills, dense forests, and winding rivers.

A Main River cruise passes through Würzberg, Germany

Visiting cities on the Main

Cruises manage to snake past several Main River cities. During Maine cruise excursions, you'll be able to explore cities rich with Bavarian heritage. It inhabits everything, from the food to the architecture. Visitors will have the chance to see modern Germany as well.

Populous cities dot the tributary, providing visitors with the chance to see some of Europe's most modern and lively locales. The Main River gives travelers the chance to see some of Europe's best spots, with options to fit whatever they want out of the adventure. Due to the river's proximity to the Rhine and Danube, cruises along the Main often visit cities outside of Germany as well.

Here, we've listed some of the most popular (and populous) cities visited on a Main River cruise:

You'll notice that our list ends with the renowned French city of Paris. That's because its often a start or end-point for Main River cruises, and always a popular one at that, despite being on the Seine River itself. These cities all have unique cultures that deliver on exciting adventures and delicious food. They're packed with the best sights along the Main River, from Old Town Nuremberg to the Stadel Museum in Frankfurt.

Sailing the Main River

The Main River is one of the most immersive options of all European river cruises, since you'll get such an in-depth look at German culture. Cruisers will have the chance to take part in plenty of activities. Cruise ships often assist passengers with tour guide services, dining, entertainment and more.

After a long day touring a city, on foot there's nothing like returning to the ship to relax and take a load off. When you're wanting to immerse yourself in rich culture, visit scenic Bavarian villages and cities, and cruise a beautiful German river, choosing to Main River cruise Germany is the way to go.

Main River cruises visit Miltenberg, Germany