Sounds of the 60s on the Rhine

Bonn: Birthplace of Beethoven

The 2000 year - old historic site is the centre of Bonn. It will delight and astound visitors. This tour will encompass some of the spectacular highlights of this town, visiting such places as, Beethoven monument, the Romanesque Minster Cathedral, the University of Bonn, which was formerly the Elector’s Palace – with its elegant Hofgarten and the grand baroque City Hall. The tour takes you to the banks of the Rhine near the Bonn Opera House to see the imposing view of Germany‘s oldest nature park, Siebengebirge and seven hills. Naturally you’ll visit Beethoven’s birthplace, which includes a museum, archives and chamber music hall where you can learn more about the life and work of this great composer. (Concert Hall exhibition Between March and August as entrance to the House is not permitted).

Walking grade 3

Two hours

Koblenz and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress

Immortalised by Byron and Herman Melville, lofty fortifications have glowered over Koblenz since 1,000AD and changed faces over the centuries. The Prussians constructed Festung Ehrenbreitstein in the early 19th century, when Rhineland became a Prussian province. Despite being Europe’s second largest fortress, after Gibraltar, it played no part in either WWI or WWII. Enjoy a panoramic cable car ride from Koblenz up to the fortress, the views are astounding and you’ll learn about the history of the site. There will be a guided walk around the historic city of Koblenz, and you can admire the elegant architecture.

Walking Grade 4

Three hours

Siegfrieds Museum of Mechanical Music

Siegfried Wendel’s eccentric collection of 350 self-playing instruments is a veritable treat for eyes and ears. In this whimsical museum you’ll find a fantastical, nostalgic and joyous cacophony of beautiful music boxes, barrel organs, hand-cranked carnival machines and early jukeboxes, all in full working order. High points include the ‘Puppet Orchestrion’, a huge cabinet containing puppet musicians (1888) and the later ‘Phonoliszt Violina’ a blend of piano and violins that plays in perfect harmony. Walking Grade 2

One-and-a-half hours

Rudesheim Wine Tasting

Board a tourist train and travel into the centre of Rudesheim to Weingut Adolf Storzel. Located just a few steps from the famous Drosselgasse, this family owned winery dates back to the 16th century. Your knowledgeable host will introduce you to 3 different white wines from the winery. A pretzel is served alongside to neutralise the taste of the different wines. After the wine tasting you will have the possibility to taste and purchase other white and red wines and different liquors and brandies. A small glass decorated with the coat of arms of the family is yours to take away as a souvenir. Afterwards, the tourist train will take you back to your ship, unless you decide to stroll back at your leisure; perhaps via the Drosselgasse! Walking Grade 1

One-and-a-half hours

Andernach Geyser

This startling natural phenomenon is the world’s highest cold-water geyser and sends jets of water shooting upwards to an astonishing 60 metres in height, with accompanying noisy burps and gurgles. At the Discovery Centre you’ll learn about the science behind this geological wonder, and what happens 4,000 metres below the earth’s surface to drive and power this natural fountain. A boat will take you out to the Namedyer Werth peninsula, a nature reserve, to witness the geyser and taste the water for yourself. Take advantage of the free time to explore all the wanders and natural beauty that Andernach has to offer.

Walking Grade 3

Four hours