Aschaffenburg to Bamberg

Aschaffenburg to Bamberg 

Day 1: Aschaffenburg - Miltenberg
Day 2: Miltenberg - Freudenberg - Marktheidenfeld, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 3: Marktheidenfeld - Karlstadt, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 4: Karlstadt - Würzburg, 16 mi. (25 km)
Day 5: Würzburg - Kitzingen, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 6: Kitzingen - Volkach - Hassfurt, 31 mi.  (50 km)
Day 7: Hassfurt - Konigsberg in Bayern - Bamberg, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 8: Bamberg

Day 1: Aschaffenburg to Miltenburg
Embarkation at 1:30 pm followed by immediate departure to Miltenberg. For this reason, it is recommended to book an extra night before your tour to visit the Johannisburg Castle.  The massive four-winged complex, built from 1605 to 1614 under Archbishop-Elector Johann Schweikard von Kronberg, is one of the most important examples of palace architecture from the German Renaissance era. You can also visit the Pompejanum, an idealized replica of a Roman Village, build in the 19th century. As the boat navigates toward Miltenberg, you will have a welcome speech and tour presentation, including crew introductions, a safety presentation, and welcome drink. Dinner will be enjoyed as you sail. After the boat moors in Miltenberg, you can join the guide for a city walk. This city has a certain charm due to its meandering streets and alleys, old restored half-timber houses, and the monumental market square. Here, you can enjoy a local beer in one of the cozy pubs or on the terraces. 

Day 2: Miltenberg - Freudenberg - Marktheidenfeld, 31 mi. (50 km)
During a relaxing breakfast, the barge brings you to Freudenberg. First, you bike through the typical landscape of the Main to Wertheim, where the character of an old Frankish is preserved. There is much to see on the route to Marktheidenfeld, a beautiful old town with historic buildings and Franconian timbered houses.

Day 3: Marktheidenfeld - Karlstadt, 31 mi. (50 km)
Today you bike through a very beautiful part of the Main valley first to Lohr am Main and its Gothic and Baroque buildings. Then the bike tour goes to Gemünden, another charming village along the river. Today's destination is the Romantic old town of  Karlstadt. Explore the more than 800-year-old buildings in the by walls, towers and Gates surrounded old town.

Day 4: Karlstadt - Würzburg, 16 mi. (25 km)
Today offers a shorter bike tour, which gives ample time to visit the town of Würzburg. Würzburg's famous landmarks are the UNESCO World Heritage Residenz Palace, with its palace gardens and square, the Marienberg Citadel, and the 180-meter-long Old Main Bridge, which is lined with impressive statues of saints. Straddling the banks of the Main river amid idyllic vineyards, the location alone is reason enough to visit Würzburg. Another reason is the local wine served in Bocksbeutel bottles, whose characteristic flattened round shape has become a trademark for the entire region. Today there is no dinner on board. You can select one of the local restaurants of Würzburg.

Day 5: Würzburg - Kitzingen, 37 mi. (57 km)
Today you will cycle along the Main cycle track from Wurzburg through the fruitful Ochsenfurt district to Ochsenfurt with its lance tower that is definitely worth seeing. Cycle through the historic village Marktbreit with its fine residences to Kitzingen.
Kitzingen has a reputation for producing some unique and flavorful white wines. Producers in the area use a distinctive wine bottle called a Bocksbeutel, which has a short neck and a wide body.

Day 6: Kitzingen - Volkach - Hassfurt 31 mi.  (50 km)
Via the wine-growing areas of Dettelbach and Schwarzach am Main you cycle first to Volkach. Here it is worth visiting the pilgrimage church of St. Maria in Weingarten. Then you go on Fahr via the Volkach loop in the Main river. Here the valley becomes narrower and narrower and the vineyards more and more numerous. From Schweinfurt, you will join the barge for a sailing dinner to Hassfurt. 

Day 7: Hassfurt – Bamberg, 22 mi. (35 km)
Hassfurt is famous for the late gothic Ritter chapel and the church full of valuable paintings such as ‘John the Baptist’ and ‘Maria with Child’ by artist Tilmann Riemenschneider. The easy option today follows the bike path along the river again to Bamberg. You can take the beautiful route through the hills to Konigsberg in Bayern. This medieval town is a romantic Franconian town right out of a picture book. It’s protected historic center with half-timbered houses is a hidden gem, embedded in a countryside of forests, valleys, and hills. From Zeil am Main you will follow the river again to the final destination, Bamberg.
Bamberg often referred to as Little Venice, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its authentic medieval appearance. It is home to such wonders as the Bamberg Cathedral, a late Romanesque building with four impressive towers. This houses the world-famous Bamberg Horseman, an equestrian statue that inspired such poets as Stefan George and Claus Schenk Graf von Stauffenberg. Bamberg is also famous for brewing the best beer in Germany.

Day 8: Bamberg 
Departure after breakfast. 

Bamberg to Aschaffenburg 

Day 1: Bamberg - Hassfurt
Day 2: Hassfurt - Schweinfurt -Volkach 
Day 3: Volkach - Kitzingen - Eibelstadt
Day 4: Eibelstadt - Würzburg
Day 5: Karlstadt - Marktheidenfeld
Day 6: Marktheidenfeld - Wertheim - Miltenberg
Day 7: Miltenberg - Aschaffenburg
Day 8: Aschaffenburg

*Daily mileage is between 25 and 30 miles a day.

Day 1: Bamberg - Haßfurt 
Wow, Bamberg! The entire old town is a UNESCO site. After exploring, you might need to quench your thirst. Take your pick from 9 breweries and 50 beer varieties in Bamberg alone. Once the seat of temporal and religious power in the 11th century, both an emperor and a pope are entombed here. The Imperial Cathedral showcases a wealth of art including the Bamberg Horseman, a medieval stone monument that (700 years later) inspired WWII resistance fighters like Claus von Stauffenberg, Hitler’s would-be assassin. Stop and smell the roses at the prince-bishops palace. There’s a lovely outdoor café overlooking the baroque gardens, tiled rooftops, and city church spires. The “island district” features the only town hall in the world straddling a river. For centuries, Bamberg cultivated and traded licorice root, the sweet plant that flavors candy. But even more famous are the city suds. Try the “smoked beer” from Schlenkerla Brewery. You’ll never forget your first sip.

The IRIS will be waiting for you in the harbor at 1 pm. You will meet up with other travelers, your guide(s) and the crew on the barge and start sailing at approximately 3 pm. As you sail the River Main, you will enjoy your first dinner on board. Enjoy & settle in your home for the week!

Please be aware that visiting Bamberg is NOT part of our Program. We strongly recommend spending time in Bamberg before the start of your tour.

Day 2: Hassfurt - Schweinfurt -Volkach 
You can opt for a beautiful route through the hills to Konigsberg in Bayern. This medieval town is a romantic Franconian town right out of a picture book. It’s protected historic center with half-timbered houses is a hidden gem, embedded in a countryside of forests, valleys, and hills. If you opt for staying along the river bike path, you will pass little wine villages and fruit gardens. Schweinfurt is a modern little town, with museums and galleries. The IRIS will be waiting there for another sailing dinner, the destination being one of the most attractive little villages on the Main river: Volkach.

Day 3: Volkach - Kitzingen - Eibelstadt
You begin biking from Volkach, deep in the heart of Franconian wine country. Set atop the hill is a precious pilgrimage church called Maria in the Vineyard. Inside more hand-carvings by Riemenschneider and outside phenomenal photo-ops of the river valley and the river’s famed Oxbow, a great u-shape and perfect pitch for growing grapes. You arrive in Kitzingen with its cock-eyed watchtower. One silly legend (every village has one) recalls the tower built with a mortar and wine mixture. This region is the largest wine producer in Bavaria. After a stroll through Kitzingen, you will continue to cycle along Ochsenfurt and Marktbreit to Eibelstadt, a quiet place to dock for the night!

Day 4: Eibelstadt - Würzburg
The destination today is Würzburg at only 10 km distance. Anytime you see the word “Burg” after a city name, it’s going to be good. Burg = fortress. The imposing landmark of this city is the fortress (Marienburg) on the hill. Home of the once-powerful prince-bishops with monumental views over their ecclesiastic fiefdom. Vineyards slope down to the city ever since the Middle Ages providing wealth and good libation for this ancient arch-diocese. Famous writer Goethe preferred white wines from Würzburg. When the old fortress was deemed out-modish, these religious overlords built themselves an entirely new Residenz in the 1700s. All the big names around Europe were called in to collaborate. Here you will enjoy a guided tour. Imagine puffy powdered wigs, corsets and cleavage, birdcage hats, pastel tones, and gilded excess. This palace is considered one of the finest examples in Germany and UNESCO-approved. Connected by a bridge of saintly personalities, Würzburg spans both sides of the river where a festive mood lingers into the night. It might have to do with being surrounded by grapevines and a university.

Day 5: Würzburg - Karlstadt - Marktheidenfeld
An early morning sail brings you to Karlstadt, while having breakfast. Once on the bike, you skip from one medieval village to another, following the sweeping S-curves as the river weaves past Germany’s great beech and oak forest known as Spessart Woods “woodpecker hills” and Charlemagne’s imperial hunting grounds. Bandits and poachers roamed here for centuries looting caravans traveling on old salt and glass trade routes. It’s the Sherwood Forest of Germany. And it is magical. Germans revere their forests. The route leads to Lohr am Main, a town with a colorful past; the plague in 1666 and witch hunts... the legendary home of real characters in Grimm’s fairy tale Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. There will be much to see as you bike, castle ruins and dramatic rock formations. Overnight in Marktheidenfeld, in which, among other things, there’s good ice cream

Day 6: Marktheidenfeld - Wertheim - Miltenberg
Today's destination is quintessential Miltenberg comes into sight. You’ll discover crooked cobblestone alleys, medieval watchtowers and a village that looks like an Advent calendar lit up at night. The view across the river is a 14th-century abbey cloaked in vineyards. Miltenberg is also home to Faust Beer and one of the oldest (continuously-operating) guesthouses in Germany. Since 1411, big names have stayed at Zum Riesen. Two of them are Napoléon and Elvis Presley! They would have eaten sausage, dumplings, potato salad too. The beer to wash it down comes from the brewery next door. Fresh and local.  You’re in the heart of Germany and this is why you travel!

Day 7: Miltenberg - Aschaffenburg
The Main River path leads you along to Kloster Engelberg, a still-functioning monastery, visited by walking quite some stairs…..with a Gastwirtschaft at the top and a great view on the river. At Park Schoenbusch you will find a classical English style Garden before you reach your final destination on this great tour: Aschaffenburg.

Aschaffenburg was mentioned in a charter drawn up by Emperor Otto II in 974 BC, and bygone centuries have fortunately lived on in its architecture to this day. The most fascinating buildings are the Stiftsbasilika, which was first documented in the 10th century, and the unique Pompejanum. Built in the mid-19th century for Ludwig I of Bavaria in accordance with the excavation plans of the “Castor and Pollux” villa in Pompeii, this Roman villa now houses important exhibits from the Bavarian antique collection. Archbishop and elector Johann Schweikard von Kronberg bequeathed Johannisburg castle to Aschaffenburg, which is one of the most important Renaissance castles of the western world. Empress Maria-Theresia, Napoleon Bonaparte and many heads of state appreciated and enjoyed their hospitality of the castle’s owners.

Day 8: Aschaffenburg
Departure after breakfast. 

Bamberg to Aschaffenberg

Day 1: Arrival in Bamberg
Day 2: Bamberg to Haßfurt | Haßfurt to Schweinfurt, 18–24 mi. (30–40 km)
Day 3: Schweinfurt to Stammheim to Kitzingen, 19 or 36 mi. (32 or 60 km)
Day 4: Kitzingen to Würzburg, 24 mi. (40 km)
Day 5: Würzburg to Karlstadt | Karlstadt to Lohr, 18 mi. (30 km)
Day 6: Lohr to Wertheim | Wertheim to Freudenberg, 18 mi. (30 km)
Day 7: Freudenberg to Aschaffenburg, 30 mi. (50 km)
Day 8: Departure from Aschaffenburg

Day 1: Bamberg
Welcome to Bamberg, where boarding begins at 2 pm and your first night is spent on board. Like Rome, the city is built on seven hills and is full of character. After a warm welcome from the captain, crew, and tour leaders, take time to explore the charming old town. Wander through the fishermen’s quarter known as “Little Venice,” with its 17th-century riverside homes, and soak in the lively atmosphere of a city that boasts eleven independent breweries, an ideal place to toast the start of your journey.

Day 2: Bamberg to Haßfurt | Haßfurt to Schweinfurt, 30–40 km (18–24 mi)
Enjoy a relaxing cruise to Haßfurt, a town known for its historic center and impressive churches, including the late-Gothic Ritterkapelle and the parish church. From here, begin your first cycling stage, passing through Zeil am Main, located right at the border between Franconian wine country and beer country. The day ends in Schweinfurt, a former imperial city set between two nature parks and filled with historical charm.

Day 3: Schweinfurt to Stammheim to Kitzingen, 32 or 60 km (19 or 36 mi)
Today’s destination is Kitzingen, one of the region’s oldest wine towns. To shorten the day, you may stay aboard until Stammheim. Otherwise, cycle through wide river valleys and peaceful vineyards. In Kitzingen, visit the Carnival Museum to learn about the origins of Carnival and medieval Franconian traditions. The museum is located in the Falterturm, the town’s iconic leaning tower. Though the old breweries have long since turned to wine production, their presence can still be seen in the historic cellars.

Day 4: Kitzingen to Würzburg, 40 km (24 mi)
Cycle along fertile farmland and through picturesque villages to reach Würzburg, an energetic university city rich in art and architecture. Be sure to visit the UNESCO-listed Residenz Palace and gardens, enjoy the views from Marienberg Fortress, and walk across the Old Main Bridge lined with statues of saints. Würzburg’s lively atmosphere makes it a perfect place to enjoy a drink in the evening.

Day 5: Würzburg to Karlstadt | Karlstadt to Lohr, 30 km (18 mi)
The ship brings you to Karlstadt in the morning, arriving around 10:30 am. Karlstadt’s old town, framed by medieval walls, towers, and gates dating back to around 1200, is a lovely place to explore before you begin cycling. Follow the Main River toward Lohr am Main, a town full of half-timbered charm. Local lore says that Snow White lived here, and the turrets of Lohr Castle only add to the fairytale feeling.

Day 6: Lohr to Wertheim | Wertheim to Freudenberg, 30 km (18 mi)
Cruise in the morning to Wertheim, famous for its hilltop castle and narrow historic center. The market square includes what is believed to be the narrowest house in Franconia. Start today’s ride here and follow the river to Freudenberg, where the ruins of Freudenburg Castle sit high above the town, offering sweeping views of the forested hills.

Day 7: Freudenberg to Aschaffenburg, 50 km (30 mi)
A highlight of today’s ride is the medieval town of Miltenberg, easily recognized by the imposing Mildenburg Castle above it. Continue along the Planeten-Radweg between Erlenbach and Kleinwallstadt, enjoying scenic river views while following a route designed to represent our solar system. The shaded floodplain forests near Niedernheim and Nilkheim make for a pleasant summer ride. Meet the ship in Aschaffenburg, home to the grand Renaissance Johannisburg Castle and plenty of welcoming wine bars and cafés.

Day 8: Aschaffenburg
Your tour concludes in Aschaffenburg. After breakfast, disembark by 9:30 am.

Aschaffenberg to Bamberg

Day 1: Arrival in Aschaffenburg
Day 2: Aschaffenburg to Freudenberg, 29 mi. (48 km)
Day 3: Freudenberg to Wertheim | Wertheim to Lohr, 24–27 mi. (40–45 km)
Day 4: Lohr to Karlstadt | Karlstadt to Würzburg, 18 mi. (30 km)
Day 5: Würzburg to Kitzingen, 24 mi. (40 km)
Day 6: Kitzingen to Dettelbach | Dettelbach to Schweinfurt, 24–36 mi. (40–60 km)
Day 7: Schweinfurt to Haßfurt | Haßfurt to Bamberg, 21–24 mi. (35–40 km)
Day 8: Departure from Bamberg

Day 1: Aschaffenburg
Welcome to Aschaffenburg, where boarding begins at 2 pm. After a warm welcome from the captain, crew, and tour leader, take time to explore this charming university town, often compared to Nice for its Mediterranean flair. Visit the impressive red-sandstone Johannisburg Castle, wander the narrow lanes lined with half-timbered houses, and end your day in one of the many inviting wine bars or cafés.

Day 2: Aschaffenburg to Freudenberg, 48 km (28.8 mi)
Your first cycling day offers a relaxed ride along the Main River, with the option to follow either bank. In summer, the shaded floodplain forests between Nilkheim and Niedernheim make the route especially pleasant. Enjoy the Planeten-Radweg, where solar-system displays line the path, and pause by the river for a rest or a refreshing swim. Today’s ride ends in Freudenberg, where the hilltop castle overlooks the river with beautiful panoramic views.

Day 3: Freudenberg to Wertheim | Wertheim to Lohr, 40–45 km (24–27 mi)
Enjoy breakfast on board as the ship sails to Wertheim, your starting point for today’s ride. Explore the historic market square and see what may be the narrowest house in Franconia. Cycle through peaceful Main Valley landscapes toward Lohr, a town full of fairytale charm and half-timbered houses. After dinner, take a stroll through the old town and visit Lohr Castle, said to be linked to the Snow White legend.

Day 4: Lohr to Karlstadt | Karlstadt to Würzburg, 30 km (18 mi)
The ship cruises early to Karlstadt, where medieval walls, towers, and centuries-old buildings create a romantic setting for the start of your ride. Rejoin the boat in Würzburg and explore its many highlights, including the UNESCO-listed Residenz Palace with its magnificent gardens. You may also enjoy the views from Marienberg Fortress or walk across the Old Main Bridge lined with statues of saints.

Day 5: Würzburg to Kitzingen, 40 km (24 mi)
Follow the Main Cycle Path through the fertile Ochsenfurt region, stopping in the charming town of Ochsenfurt with its distinctive lance tower. Continue to Marktbreit, known for its elegant Renaissance buildings, before reaching Kitzingen, where wine culture is deeply rooted. Visit the Carnival Museum to learn about the history of Carnival and medieval Franconian traditions.

Day 6: Kitzingen to Dettelbach | Dettelbach to Schweinfurt, 40–60 km (24–36 mi)
Begin the day in Dettelbach, a picturesque wine village. You may shorten today’s route by taking the boat from Kitzingen to Dettelbach or cycle the full distance. From Dettelbach, ride through rolling vineyards to Volkach and visit the pilgrimage church of St. Maria in Weingarten. The valley narrows as you continue through more vineyards before meeting the ship again in Schweinfurt.

Day 7: Schweinfurt to Haßfurt | Haßfurt to Bamberg, 35–40 km (21–24 mi)
Start with a short cruise to Haßfurt before cycling toward Zeil am Main, located at the meeting point of Franconian wine and beer regions. Your final destination is Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage city built on seven hills. Explore “Little Venice,” the picturesque fishermen’s quarter with 17th-century homes, and if you wish, enjoy a local brew from one of the city’s eleven independent breweries.

Day 8: Bamberg
Tour ends after breakfast. Disembarkation until 9:30 am.