SAMPLE ITINERARY

An Elbe River cruise is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of Saxony, the ‘Switzerland of Germany’, and discover many of Germany and Czechia’s historic treasures. Majestic sandstone rock formations, vast woodlands, ornate Gothic castles and inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites will provide a spectacular backdrop to your journey. Most itineraries start in Berlin and end in Prague (or vice versa), although you can continue on to Hamburg or Copenhagen. Along the way you will be able to explore many charming towns and cities including majestic Dresden, the beautifully restored capital of Saxony.

Germany’s legendary capital of Berlin dates back to the 13th century and since its reunification it has undergone a remarkable rebirth as a centre of arts, culture and modern architecture. Although it isn’t located on the Elbe River, most cruises start with a night or two in this great city. Reminders of its turbulent 20th century history include the Holocaust Memorial and graffitied remains of the Berlin Wall, which divided the city during the Cold War. Today the enormous Brandenburg Gate has become an important symbol of Germany’s reunification.

Other key sights include the Reichstag Building with its spectacular glass dome, the compelling Jewish Museum and Checkpoint Charlie. You can also stroll around Museum Island, where the Pergamon Museum houses a host of world-renowned treasures. 

From Berlin you will transfer by coach to the Elbe River to join your cruise. Along the way you may stop in Potsdam, once home to the region’s Kings and Kaisers. Sanssouci Palace, built in the 18th century by the Prussian king, Frederick the Great, is a perfect example of German Rococo architecture.

Continue to the university town of Wittenberg, where you will board your river cruise. Wittenberg was the birthplace of Martin Luther, the leader of the Protestant Reformation. Its Old Town was spared destruction during World War II, so its charming houses remain as they have been for centuries. The 13th century Stadtkirche, where Luther preached, is situated on Market Square. The Lutherhaus, once a monastery and Luther’s home, is now a museum displaying his personal artefacts and paintings.

Surrounded by wine producing villages, you will next arrive at Meissen. This is one of the oldest towns in Saxony, dating back to 929 when it was founded by the German king, Henry the Fowler. It is here that Europe’s first porcelain factory was built, and the town is still famous for its porcelain today. In the town centre you can see Albrechtsburg, a late Gothic and early Renaissance castle and the Gothic Meissen Cathedral. You can also climb the tower of the Gothic Frauenkirche (Church of our Lady), which has the world’s oldest carillon made from porcelain that chimes a different ditty six times a day.

Dresden comes next, the magnificent capital of Saxony known as ‘Florence on the Elbe’ with its wonderful Baroque architecture. Extensively rebuilt after being almost completely destroyed during the Second World War, today Dresden is one of Germany’s most thriving and contemporary cities, with many wonderfully landscaped green areas. The Frauenkirche is famous for its grand dome, and the Green Vault contains the largest treasure collection in Europe with a wealth of incredible artefacts. The ornate Zwinger Palace, inspired by Versailles, houses several museums including the Old Masters Picture Gallery (Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister) with masterpieces by Raphael, Rubens and Titian.

After leaving Dresden some cruises visit the picturesque spa town of Bad Schandau, which lies on the edge of the Saxon Switzerland National Park, close to the Czech border.

After crossing into the Czechia you will arrive at Litomerice, which is set against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery at the point where the Elbe and Ohře Rivers meet. Dating back to the 10th century, this charming city is one of the oldest in the country and was a major trading hub during the Holy Roman Empire. You can wander through its winding streets, with buildings painted in vivid pastel colours in a mix of architectural styles - ranging from Renaissance to Gothic and Baroque. Landmarks include St Stephen’s Cathedral, the Bishop’s Residence and the 16th century House of the Black Eagle. A myriad of side streets offer small shops, cafes and restaurants to enjoy. The fertile lowlands surrounding Litomerice are fittingly known as the ‘Garden of Bohemia’.

Melnik sits at the meeting point of the Elbe and Vltava Rivers in Central Bohemia. Landmarks include Melnik Chateau, once home to the widow queens of Bohemia, and the distinctive Church of St Peter and St Paul. Melnik is known locally as the ‘Town of Wine’, as its surrounding green countryside has been home to vineyards for centuries. Every September the town comes alive with street theatre, fireworks and a costumed procession during the Melnik Wine Festival.

As your cruise nears its end, the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’ comes into view – the incredibly preserved medieval city of Prague. Bisected by the Vltava River, this capital city of Czechia has many architectural gems. In the heart of the Old Town Square you will find many colourful Baroque buildings, Gothic churches and the medieval Astronomical Clock, which gives an animated hourly show. Completed in 1402, the pedestrian Charles Bridge is lined with statues of Catholic saints. Other must-sees include Lobkowicz Palace, the Old New Synagogue in the Jewish Quarter and Prague Microbrewery, which has been operating since 1466.

At the end of your cruise, transfer to Prague airport for your flight home.

PRICING

Price is based on two adults sharing a twin cabin on a full board basis, including morning and afternoon tea. An optional drinks package is available on request. Airport and port transfers are included but not flights, which can be arranged on request.

We offer a choice of river cruises at different prices, so please discuss your requirements with us. All cruises and cabin classes are subject to availability.

It is essential that you have personal holiday insurance. The FCO should also be consulted.