The River Main meanders gently through the heartlands of Germany. It is navigable by way of 34 locks and dams that replace 19th century chain-shipping where the towing power of men and horses was needed to travel upstream. The landscape, as the Main winds through Bavaria, Baden-Wurttemberg and Hesse, is one of beautiful dense forests, valleys with rolling vineyards, ancient hilltop castles and quaint rustic villages with traditional half-timbered houses. In its path, the dynamic city of Frankfurt with its futuristic skyline contrasts with the medieval architecture of historic Bamberg. A cruise on the beautiful River Main promises the quintessential German experience.
Things to know
Along the Main many of Germany’s greatest historical treasures were destroyed in World War II
At 326 miles long the Main is the longest river entirely in Germany
Flowing from east to west it is a tributary of the River Rhine, which it joins in Mainz
Picturesque landscape, medieval villages with timber-framed houses are set against the backdrop of rolling hills.
Opened in 1992, the Main-Danube Canal connects the River Main with the River Danube
The River Main is part of a 1,367-mile long waterway connecting the North and Black seas