The scenic Main River seems to take its time on its circuitous route to the Rhine, twisting and arcing its way at a leisurely pace through Germany’s scenic landscapes. Throughout its past, it has served as a geographic and cultural divide, separating languages, cuisines and religions. Today, this lazy waterway is a source of pride for all Germans, lined with picturesque preserved forestland, sprawling vineyards and some of the nation’s most beloved cultural and historic landmarks. Here is a sample of what you may experience during a Viking Main river cruise:

• The wide, undulating loops of the scenic Main River
• Charming half-timbered houses in Miltenberg
• The glassblowing tradition of Spessart
• The enormous and ornate Bishops’ Residenz of Würzbrug
• Picturesque Bamberg and its Town Hall built on a river’s bridge
• Distinctive rauchbier, the local smoke-flavored beer
• Toy-making heritage of Nuremberg
• Nuremberg’s scenic Old Town and Market Square