Don’t Miss these Legendary Experiences in Germany

Passion Play Theater in Oberammergau, Germany

Oberammergau Passion Play

Attend the once-in-a-decade event, the Passionsspiele, or Passion Play, which will be staged in the town of Oberammergau May to October 2022. Rescheduled due to the pandemic, the production tells the story of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ with the help of more than 2,000 local actors, musicians and singers. This will mark the 42nd instance of the landmark performance, which originated in 1633. The five-hour show begins in the afternoon with Jesus Christ’s entry into Jerusalem and continues through the Last Supper and the Crucifixion. After a three-hour intermission, the evening acts cover the Resurrection story. Travelers need to plan early to ensure their reservations are confirmed for the open-air production, which is expected to attract more than 450,000 visitors to Oberammergau. Some luxury river cruise lines have dedicated sailings that include entrance fees to the epic performance, combined with other memorable excursions.

Experience the beauty that is Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle

Perhaps the most famous among Germany’s collection of castles and palaces is the magnificent Romanesque fortress called Neuschwanstein Castle. Built for eccentric King Ludwig II in the late 1800s, this castle is an extravagant artistic and architectural confection closely associated with the operas of composer Richard Wagner. It’s been said that the towering fairy-tale castle influenced Walt Disney as he was directing the construction of Disneyland’s Cinderella Castle. Take in the splendor as you walk its decadent hallways and peek at its ornately decorated rooms. Save time after your tour to appreciate the surrounding landscape of deep green forests and soaring Alps which is as captivating as the interior views.

Brauhaus Culture

To truly immerse yourself in German ethos, dive into the tavern culture of Bavaria with its longstanding brewing tradition. In Munich, the historic capital of Germany, you can visit the well-known Hofbräuhaus, open every day, year-round. Spend your beer token and sip a specialty brew as you enjoy genuine hospitality, salty snacks and lively polka music. In the scenic town of Regensburg, you’ll find renowned Weltenburg Abbey, famous for its dark ale, brewed by monks since 1050. Or spend a lovely afternoon in the Ratskeller, a classic biergarten, sampling some of the country’s best-loved beers accompanied by pretzels, bratwurst, pickles and a local cheese known as obazda.

Explore Aschaffenburg, Germany

Viking Longships

Experience all these aspects of Germany and more during a Viking cruise along the Danube or Rhine River. On the award-winning Viking Longships, you are taken to the heart of iconic cities, where memorable experiences are only steps away. With an included excursion in each port — plus a wide variety of optional excursions — and the ability to explore on your own, Viking makes it easy to experience the best of Europe.

Contact one of our travel agents to book your Viking cruise today!