If you’re the kind of tourist who loves to be immersed in history (while never being far from 21st century comforts), you’d be hard-pressed to better the enchanting charms of Germany’s river towns.
Once major centers of commerce, many of the smaller river towns struggled to survive as railroads and airlines opened up other regions to tourism and trade. However, thanks to the rising popularity of river cruise holidays, many have regained their former effulgence and have once again become important ports along the river.
There are, in fact, a huge variety of river towns along Germany’s waterways, some having morphed into huge commercial centers, while others have preserved a more fairytale appearance. Here are a few you might want to explore.
Top of the list is Hannover, the state capital of Lower Saxony. Here you can amble through medieval lanes in the old city center, sip coffee in one of the innumerable cafés, relax on the banks of the glorious Leine, and get stuck into some serious retail therapy in the city center, with its multiple pedestrianized precincts with exclusive shopping opportunities.
The city is home to the world-renowned Maschsee Lake Festival, a three-week long, open-air summer party held along a palm-lined boulevard on the banks of the lake. Featuring live music, entertainment, activities for young people, and delectable culinary delights, it’s simply not to be missed. Hannover also plays host to the Marksmen’s Fair, a spectacular fairground staged in July, which has been a feature of the city for hundreds of years (although its hi-tech rides and attractions today bear no resemblance to the simpler pleasures of centuries past).
A little tip: you’ll get more out of your visit if you stay in an apartment rather than a hotel. Who wants to stay wrapped inside a hotel bubble when cities as fabulous as this await you? By opting for holiday rentals in Hannover instead, you’ll be more inclined to explore at your leisure.
A visit to Cochem is well worth the effort. This bewitchingly picturesque town is latticed with medieval streets and features a beautiful riverfront promenade. Like most of the towns dotted along the Mosel, Cochem is overlooked by an imposingly majestic castle perched on a hill above the town. During summer weekends and during the fall harvest, you can enjoy wine festivals replete with delicious foods, colorful costumes, oompah bands, and dancing.
You might not associate Nuremberg with enjoyable river cruise holidays, but think again. It boasts a stunning Gothic cathedral and an 11th-century fort and, with its centuries’ old tradition of toy-making, hosts one the best Christmas markets in Germany.
Another destination that exudes beauty is UNESCO World Heritage Site Bamberg. Nestled on the banks of the Regnitz River, you’ll wander through narrow cobblestone streets, passing magnificent churches, ornate mansions, and magisterial palaces. One of the most beautiful cities in Germany, you’ll be immersed in 1,000 years of gorgeous architectural style.
In short, if you’re thinking of a European river cruise holiday, Germany is the place to beat. The towns and cities on offer are real jewels, steeped in history, and bursting with culture – not to mention wonderful food and fabulous sights.