River cruising along Germany's Rhine and Main promises picturesque landscapes, but some port towns deliver architectural wonders that far exceed expectations. On a recent voyage with APT's Highlights of the Rhine and Main cruise, the stop at Bamberg proved to be a breathtaking highlight, revealing a city so rich in history and beauty it's often called the Franconian Rome.
Little Venice and a Town Hall Built on an Island
After a short coach transfer from the APT Ostara, the exploration of Bamberg begins along the Regnitz River. A local guide named Alexander points out the charming district known as Little Venice. Here, a row of half-timbered and tile-clad houses from the 15th and 16th centuries line the waterway, their small gardens spilling towards the river. This was once the fishermen's quarter, where homes also served as workshops for processing the day's catch.
The tour then delves into the heart of Bamberg's UNESCO-listed Old Town, one of Europe's largest intact medieval centres with over 2000 protected buildings. The star is the remarkable Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall). Its story is one of civic defiance: in the 14th century, with the church controlling the land, the citizens created an artificial island in the river by driving oak piles into the riverbed. On this foundation, they built their own seat of government.
The building itself is an architectural chameleon. One facade showcases exquisite half-timber work, while another features stunning Rococo frescoes painted using trompe l'oeil techniques to deceive the eye. The clocktower is adorned with intricate Baroque stone carvings, making the structure a condensed lesson in European architectural styles.
Palatial Views and a Smoked Beer Specialty
A climb up one of the city's seven hills leads to the grounds of the New Residence, among Bavaria's largest palaces. A clever cost-saving measure from its construction is revealed: on the least visible parts of the building, decorative stonework was simply painted on, a detail so well-executed it's hard to distinguish from the real thing. The palace's rose garden offers panoramic views over Bamberg's sea of red rooftops. In peak season, some 4500 roses would be in bloom, a spectacular sight.
Following the guided tour, visitors are free to explore. Many seek out the local culinary curiosity: Rauchbier, a distinctive smoked beer described as having a bacon-like flavour. For those not ready for an early morning tipple, the weekly Saturday food market is a vibrant alternative, brimming with fresh produce like summer berries.
Hidden Artistic Gems and Spiritual Spaces
Beyond the main squares like Domplatz, home to the imperial Bamberg Cathedral, the city holds quieter treasures. The striking Hellerhaus, with its blue facade and white stucco, resembles fine Wedgwood china. Meanwhile, in the Sand district, the Church of St Elisabeth offers a modern artistic surprise. It houses eight magnificent stained-glass windows created by contemporary German artist Markus Lupertz between 2019 and 2022, depicting scenes from the saint's life. The project was inspired by Lupertz's own sculpture, "Appol," which stands outside the church.
The visit concludes with a return to the river cruise ship, leaving travellers with memories of a city that perfectly blends medieval grandeur with living culture. As part of APT's inclusive offering, this Bamberg excursion is one of many on an itinerary that blends scenic sailing with deep cultural immersion.
Fact File: APT River Cruises
The 8-day Highlights of the Rhine and Main cruise includes Amsterdam, Andernach, Rudesheim, Miltenberg, Rothenburg, Wurzburg, Bamberg and Nuremberg. Fares start from $3895 per person.
The 9-day Danube Discovery voyage visits Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Salzburg, Vienna, and Budapest, with prices from $5795pp.
For the ultimate journey, the 15-day Magnificent Europe cruise travels from Budapest to Amsterdam, covering the Danube, Main, and Rhine rivers with 13 stops. Fares start from $8995 per person.
All APT cruises include excursions, transfers, wi-fi, gratuities, and meals and drinks (excluding a short list of premium spirits).
