Germany's Riverside Heritage and Culture by Bike and Boat

Day 1: Aschaffenburg

The tour begins in the lovely city of Aschaffenburg with its shops and terraces. Boarding on the Zwaan begins between 2 pm and 3 pm. Take a moment to meet the crew and receive your bike before taking a stroll around the city. Aschaffenburg is known for the impressive Johannisburg Castle overseeing the Main River. This large palace, built between 1605 and 1614, showcases German Renaissance architecture. You may also opt to visit the Pompejanum, a replica of a Roman Village from the 19th century.

Day 2: Aschaffenburg - Frankfurt am Main
28 mi / 45 km

Your cycling journey begins at Hanau, the birthplace of the famous Grimm Brothers. After crossing the Main River via a small ferry, the path guides you to the quaint town of Seligenstadt, known for its winding alleys, basilica, and medieval-style half-timbered houses. End the day cycling to Frankfurt. This city hosts a skyline dominated by sleek skyscrapers, constructed following the mass destruction of World War II, earning it the nickname "Mainhattan" due to its resemblance to Manhattan. However, within the contemporary architecture is the reconstructed Old Town ("Altstadt"), showcasing traditional German architecture. The city also boasts renowned museums and a diverse culinary scene, blending culture and contemporary allure.

Day 3: Frankfurt am Main - Mainz
28 mi / 45 km

Cycling away from the Main, today's path leads to the Rhine and the city of Mainz, a vibrant Rhine River city known for its historic landmarks like the Mainz Cathedral and Gutenberg Museum. Take time to visit the Old Town, with its half-timbered houses, Baroque-style churches, markets and cafes.

Day 4: Mainz - Rüdesheim
22 mi / 35 km

Today's shorter route allows ample time to enjoy the day's destination: the charming town of Ruedesheim. Pedal through vineyards and wine villages alongside the Rhine, where it widens to 800 meters, creating small islands. Wander through the lively "Drosselgasse" known for its vibrant music and savor the local wines. This quaint, short street, spanning 144 meters, is paved with thousands of stones. You can also opt for a cable car ride offering breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley or explore Asbach's center, renowned for producing German Brandy locally since 1892

Day 5: Rüdesheim - St. Goar
21 mi / 33 km

Begin the day cruising along the Rhine with views of the fabled cliffs and picturesque vineyard-covered slopes. From here, continue to St. Goar, where you can explore the quaint streets and catch sight of the legendary Lorelei Rock, steeped in the captivating tale of a maiden whose song entranced passing sailors.

Day 6: St. Goar - Koblenz
17 mi / 37 km

Today's route leads from St. Goar to the town of Boppard with its medieval architecture, lush vineyards, and picturesque landscapes. Boppard is also host the oldest preserved Roman fortress walls north of the Alps. From here, the path continues through idyllic wine villages to the city of Koblenz.

Day 7: Koblenz - Cochem
25 mi / 41 km

On this final day of cycling, you'll journey to Burg Eltz, privately owned by the same family for over 33 generations and showcasing an extraordinary mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture across its 850-year history. This medieval marvel, nestled on a rocky spur and filled with a collection of medieval artifacts, including weaponry, armor, and art, has remained unscathed by wars. Following this visit, continue to Cochem, a charming town famous for its wines and the stunning Reichsburg Castle

Day 8: Cochem

Following one last delicious breakfast, disembark the boat by 10 am.