Our Lucerne PreTour offers the perfect introduction or reintroduction to Switzerland. To get your adventure off to an easy start, we’ll meet early arrivals at Zurich’s ZRH airport, help you with your bikes and luggage, and whisk you to our hotel at the center of Lucerne, everyone’s favorite Swiss city, for a two- or three-night stay. Two days before embark we’ll provide a quick tour of the city’s old center before a spirited Alpine evening featuring regional food, beverages, and live entertainment that includes music, stories, yodeling, and a long alpenhorn.

The following morning we’ll set off early for a beautiful cruise across Lake Lucerne on a classic paddlewheel steamer. Our first destination of an adventure-packed day is the recently deactivated Furigen Fortress, a secret military base hidden in a mountainside.

We’ll continue with a cog train ride to a James Bond chalet atop Mount Pilatus. After enjoying lunch and 360-degree views, our easy descent from the top of one of the Alps’ highest peaks includes a pair of aerial trams and an exhilarating Alpine hike. For added thrills, some will pause to try a ropes course, and most will be eager to experience the world’s finest summer bobsled ride.

Day 1 – On embark day, we’ll continue our Alpine fun with a downhill ride that ends when we reach the Amadeus Star, which will be waiting for us in the Swiss city of Basel. This very special PreTour is designed to leave participants inspired by Switzerland’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and the unforgettable thrill of the Alps. For those that opt to skip the PreTour, our afternoon embark on the Rhine will be preceded by a bike-building session and test ride hosted by our pro bike mechanics.

Day 2 – Setting off from Breisach, our first full day of cycling enters France and follows smooth paths through forests, fields and vineyards to reach the historic Maginot Line. These once-mighty fortifications, built to defend France prior to WWII, now stand as mysterious relics surrounded by greenery, offering a unique contrast to the rolling countryside. Riding through France’s Alsace will awaken your appreciation of the layers of history that have shaped this borderland at the very heart of Europe.

As you pedal into Colmar, the fairytale charm of the town instantly captures your attention with its cobblestone streets and vibrantly painted half-timbered houses. Known as “Little Venice” for its picturesque canals, Colmar is a perfect blend of French and German influences, a true reflection of Alsace’s unique character. Here you’ll visit the workshop of Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi, the visionary artist behind the Statue of Liberty, where you can see his original sketches and models in order to better understand the creative inspiration that shaped his monumental works. Before leaving town we’ll sample the region’s most famous epicurean creation—tarte flambée.

Exiting Colmar we’ll follow the cyclists’ version of France’s Route des Vins. Unlike those in cars and tour buses, cyclists can ride through the centers of the enchanting walled wine villages of Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé, both of which are justifiably famous for their perfectly preserved medieval architecture.

Day 3 – Our second full day of cycling features Germany’s Black Forest, or as the locals call it, Schwarzwald. Imagine pedaling through the pages of a storybook.This region with its mysterious dark forests, misty valleys, and charming villages was, in fact, the Brothers Grimm inspiration for “Hansel and Gretel” and “Little Red Riding Hood.” As you ride through the shadowy woodlands and stumble upon quaint cottages and ancient castles, you’ll feel the magic of these stories come alive around every turn. It’s a place where the line between reality and fantasy blurs, offering an enchanting cycling experience full of folklore and natural beauty.

Your day of cycling in the Black Forest begins with a morning boost from the Rhine to a nearby summit on the famous Schwarzwaldhochstrasse (Black Forest High Road), Germany’s version of the Blue Ridge Parkway. From this mountain-top ski resort where we retrieve our bikes to start our rides, you’ll be greeted with sweeping views of the dense green forest stretching as far as the eye can see. All of our route options begin on the ridge-line road that meanders through the heart of the Black Forest, with towering pines and picturesque valleys on both sides.

Those who want to get in some extra miles and climbs will love the maze of narrow lanes through ever-changing scenery. Those who choose our shortest option will appreciate a 30-mile day that’s completely downhill, making it a breeze to take in the beauty of this legendary forest without breaking a sweat. As you glide down the ridge on the bike-friendly roadway, every wide bend reveals surprising views that include meadows, lakes, and tiny hamlets. A ride through this part of the world wouldn’t be complete without stopping at one of the Schwarzwald’s iconic forest lodges for an indulgent slice of authentic Black Forest Cake. Known locally as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, this famous German dessert is a decadent combination of layered rich chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and Kirsch-soaked cherries. By mid-day all routes rejoin to pass through the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden, where we’ll stop to explore its grand boulevards, historic Roman bathhouses, and beautiful gardens that embody Old World charm.

After a leisurely exploration of Baden-Baden, our rides cruise through the grounds of Schloss Favorite, a stunning baroque hunting lodge set amidst lush gardens and tranquil woodlands. This 18th-century royal palace with lavish porcelain interiors remains one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in all of Europe. After taking in its opulent rooms and strolling the gardens, we’ll hop back on our bikes for a few final miles through forested trails to reach our waiting ship. This memorable day combines the grandeur of Baden-Baden with thrilling alpine views, carefree cycling, and the perfect touch of Black Forest magic.

Day 4 – Overnight we cruise to Rüdesheim am Rhein, a village on the castle-lined section of the Rhine River valley where bridges aren’t allowed. It’s a cyclist’s haven where a multitude of colorful villages are linked by bike paths and small ferries. Local cyclists have been known to start their mornings with a local specialty.

Served at the city’s Unesco-Heritage castle, Rüdesheim Kaffee is a flaming concoction of espresso, locally-distilled brandy, whipped cream and shaved almonds.

Today’s easiest cycling uses the smooth Rhine River bike trails through historic vineyards. Longer options climb past castles to enjoy views that are more expansive. Not far from Rudesheim is Schloss Biebrich. While most of the Rhine’s castles require a low-gear climb, this stunning baroque palace is set right on the banks of the Rhine. The palace now dazzles passing cyclists with its grand facade and ornate gardens, which are open for you to explore.

Next up on our easy day of cycling is Wiesbaden, one of Germany’s most elegant destinations along the Rhine. Wiesbaden’s charming squares, soaring places of worship, stately Kurhaus, and commanding casino exude old-world sophistication. Biking through its tree-lined boulevards and past the grand neoclassical architecture, you’ll learn why Wiesbaden has been a beloved destination for centuries.

The final stop on today’s route is Mainz, a vibrant city rich with history and culture. Here, you can explore the magnificent Mainz Cathedral, a towering structure that has stood for over a thousand years and bears witness to the city’s medieval grandeur. Before or after enjoying an afternoon beer in the shade of the Cathedral, you should visit the city museum dedicated to the inventive skills of a local named Johannes Gutenberg.

Before sunset our ship will untie from Mainz and leave the wide Rhine to enter the narrower Main River. Just before we sit down for dinner the Amadeuas Star will climb through the first of seven locks that separate us from tomorrow’s ride.

Day 5 – Waking up in Aschaffenburg beneath the imposing silhouette of Johannisburg Palace, you start your day with a sense of history and elegance. The palace’s exquisite architecture and riverfront location make for a stunning backdrop as you enjoy breakfast and prepare for the day’s cycling journey. As you head out of town, the route leads you through idyllic countryside lined with orchards, where rows of apple and cherry trees create a serene atmosphere.

Racing the ship to lunch is too easy. Although the ship easily cruises at 15 miles per hour, on this 21-mile stretch of the river the ship needs to pass through four locks. This gives stronger riders plenty of time to venture inland where rolling hills surround the picture-perfect Schloss Mespelbrunn, an early Renaissance castle surrounded by a forest and small lake. A perfect spot for a coffee break—This hidden gem feels like stepping back in time, offering a perfect spot to pause, explore, and appreciate the castle’s enchanting beauty and quiet seclusion. After soaking in the atmosphere, you continue your ride through the rolling vineyards and shady forests that characterize the region, with the landscape shifting from gentle hills to a dense forest valley as you continue your ride.

All routes rejoin in Miltenberg, a picturesque town with half-timbered houses and a charming old market square. The ship will be docked here for 90 minutes to serve lunch. If you arrive before the ship, you can take the time to visit the town’s two ancient guard towers. This afternoon offers another choice of cycling routes. Or, if you rode hard enough this morning, this is a great day to stay aboard after lunch for a relaxing afternoon cruise through two additional locks to reach the historic trading city of Wertheim, at the confluence of the Main and Tauber Rivers.

Whether you arrive by bike or by ship, you’ll need an hour or more to appreciate Wertheim’s historic center, replete with winding streets, castle ruins, and welcoming town square, is a perfect end to the day’s ride, letting you relax and soak in the ambiance of this old city.

Day 6 – After previous days included cycling in a trio of smaller Germanic states (all of which were royal kingdoms until 1919), today we start our exploration of Bavaria. This second day of Main River cycling begins in the charming town of Karlstadt. Pedaling the tranquil riverside path in the cool morning air, you’re surrounded by Franconian vineyards that line the river and flow up into the hillsides. As with most days you’ll also have longer choices that are more invigorating. On Santana’s cycling cruises everyone can make their own choice and travel at their own pace. No matter which route you choose for our second morning on the Main River, in the distance you’ll soon spot today’s objective—Würzburg.

Often compared to Prague, Würzburg is certain to become one of your all-time favorite cities. Upon entering the city we’ll pause our ride for the romantic ambiance of an unforgettable guided tour and wine-tasting experience.

Wine connoisseurs will already know about Staatlicher Hofkeller, the world’s fourth-oldest winery. Housed in the basement of Wurzburg’s Residenz Palace, and dating back to 892, our tour includes a guided visit. We’ll start with the Palace’s upper floors, where grand staircases and frescoed ceilings leave you breathless at every turn.

The real jewel of this Unesco World Heritage Palace, however, is the basement wine cellar. In this vaulted barrel-room lit by candles we’ll learn about the German winemaking traditions while sampling a wide range of varietals that are emboldened by the Franken terroir—a rich soil that produces bold Rieslings and notably crisp Silvaners.

Würzburg is also notable as the starting point of Bavaria’s famed Romintische Strasse, or “Romantic Road,” a route known for its fairy-tale towns, medieval architecture, and old-world charm that evokes a sense of timeless romance. King Ludwig II, often called the “Mad King” or the “Swan King,” was one of the most enigmatic figures in all of German history. He was a patron of the arts and architecture, deeply inspired by legends and fairy tales, and is best remembered for commissioning some of Europe’s most fantastical castles, including the iconic Neuschwanstein. Ludwig’s creations were intended as escapes into dreamlike worlds, embodying his love for grandeur and mythology. His legacy of romanticism has woven itself into Bavaria’s cultural fabric. Beginning in Würzburg, the Romantische Strasse carries on Ludwig’s whimsical vision for Bavaria, winding 220 miles through Bavaria to the foot of Neuschwanstein.

After your wine experience, the journey continues with a scenic ride through Bavaria’s beautiful landscapes, crisscrossing the Main River as it winds through the countryside. On another day when our ship’s progress is slowed by a large number of locks, even the slowest riders will have plenty of time to linger in Würzburg before riding through the storybook village Ochsenfurt and finishing in renaissance center of Markbreit for total start-to-finish distance of just 32 miles. Longer riders can stretch their legs by sampling the first few miles of Bavaria’s Romantische Strasse.

Day 7 – Your day begins in the charming wine town of Volkach, where the morning sun casts a warm flow over the vineyards that stretch across the Main River Valley. Setting out on your bike, you ride through the picturesque Franconian countryside, passing endless rows of grapevines and orchards along quiet paths that feel like they belong to another time. Your first stop is Dettelbach, a medieval town where cobblestone streets wind past half-timbered houses, and ancient towers rise above, offering a beautiful contrast to the green countryside. Dettelbach invites you to slow down and soak in its historic charm, perhaps with a quick coffee at a cozy cafe in the town square.

From Dettelbach, the ride continues along the scenic Main River, where the landscape opens up to reveal expansive fields, lush forests, and the gentle winding river that guides you along the way. Arriving in Schweinfurt, the excitement builds as you see the ship waiting, ready to welcome you aboard for a delicious lunch. Inside, a 5-star buffet awaits, with an array of Bavarian favorites: steaming plates of bratwurst, freshly baked pretzels, potato salad, and sauerkraut, all accompanied by local cheeses and fresh breads. You’ll also find a selection of crisp salads, hot soups, and delightful desserts, from apple strudel to creamy Bavarian cheesecake—all served with impeccable style and a relaxed atmosphere that makes every bite even better.

After a satisfying meal, you set out for an afternoon ride along the Main toward Hassfurt, where the route takes you along peaceful riverside paths shaded by trees and dotted with wildflowers. The river glides beside you, reflecting the changing colors of the afternoon sky, while the countryside offers a stunning blend of open meadows, vineyards, and forest. Arriving in Hassfurt, you’re greeted by the town’s charming skyline and a feeling of satisfaction from a day of scenic exploration, fine food, and the unforgettable landscapes of Franconia.

Day 8 – After cruising the Main for 246 miles and climbing through 34 locks, during the morning’s breakfast will enter the 106-mile-long Main Canal that, since 1992, has connected Germany’s two largest rivers, the Rhine that flows through Holland to the North Sea, and the Danube that flows east through Vienna and Budapest to reach the Black Sea. Spanning Europe’s continental divide and requiring 30 years of construction, over 100 freight boats, barges and cruise ships pass through this canal each day.

All of today’s routes start in Bamberg, where our course crosses the city’s iconic bridge to enter the enchanting Altstadt, or Old Town. On our event’s final day of cycling, a few of you will want to finish a century ride before packing up your bikes. Others will be ready for an easier day that spends the entire morning in Bamberg, a hidden gem among Germany’s small cities.

This less-ambitious plan winds through Altstadt’s cobblestone streets to reach the Neue Residenz, a palace where you’ll pause to explore opulent interiors and the famous Rose Garden. From there, you’ll pass through Bamberg’s Little Venice, a charming quarter with colorful flower-adorned houses lining the small canals, giving you a storybook view of Bamberg. Exiting Old Town, you’ll be able to cycle through the serene grounds of Schloss Seehof, a baroque palace with beautifully manicured gardens, ornate fountains, and insightful statues.

The next point of intrigue is Michaelsberg Abbey, a former Benedictine monastery. If you feel the slightest bit guilty about avoiding today’s century ride, you can shift into low gear for the 400-foot ascent to Altenburg Castle and Bamberg’s highest vantage point. Whether or not you climb for today’s best views, by now you’ll be ready to visit Brauerei Spezial, where artisanal Bavarian beer has been brewed since 1536. Among the various choices, be sure to sample Rauchbier, a smoky beer that provides an authentic taste of the region’s rich brewing tradition.

On a day that offers a wide variety of choices, some will return to the ship in time for a late lunch, others will grab snacks throughout the day in order to cram in some additional sights or miles. Either way, this afternoon we’ll pack bikes or return rental bikes in preparation for the following morning’s disembark. Towards sunset, we’ll cast off for a final dinner that will be enjoyed as we cruise the remaining miles to Nuremberg.

Day 9 – On the final morning of our cruise, we’ll disembark in Nuremberg. Although this city has its own international airport, our choice of included shuttles to Munich use luxurious coaches that are designed to make your vacation as seamless as possible.

These comfortable shuttles will whisk you away to Munich, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic Bavarian countryside for a pair of final hours. Arriving in Munich with Oktoberfest fully underway, you’ll have the option to join our PostTour festivities or head directly to Munich’s international airport.

Munich PostTour – Immerse yourself in Bavarian culture with our Munich PostTour, where you’ll revel in the world-famous Oktoberfest, spending an evening in a traditional tent filled with hearty food, lively music, and authentic Bavarian beer.

The next day, journey into the Bavarian Alps to reach Neuschwanstein, the legendary fairytale fortress built by the enigmatic King Ludwig II. If the drawbridge and soaring towers look familiar, it’s because Neuschwanstein inspired a young Walt Disney to create Sleeping Beauty Castle as the centerpiece of his own Magic Kingdom. Together, Oktoberfest and Neuschwanstein offer a perfect blend of Bavarian festivity and romantic history, making this PostTour the ultimate way to conclude your adventure.

Alsace, Black Forest, & Bavaria are the perfect destinations to replace a string of hotels with a luxurious river cruise ship for a no-repacking cycling adventure.

How so?

Switzerland, France, & Germany are interconnected through a series of rivers, canals, and locks that create a seamless voyage from the Swiss Alps, through Alsace & the Black Forest, all the way to the heart of Bavaria. Additionally, the Rhine & Main Rivers are designed to be navigated at night.

While an old-school hotel or barge tour allows cyclists to ride through a quarter of areas we’ll cover in a single cruise, a ship that travels up to 100 miles while you sleep allows participants of Santana’s incredible Black Forest Cycling Cruise to experience a superior selection of rides and sights in Switzerland, France, & Germany.

On most days of our Black Forest Cycling Cruise, our chartered ship will move through the night to find a perfect place to start a morning ride. After we are off, it will move ahead 30-40 miles to where it docks and waits to serve a late lunch. The day’s shortest route parallels the river or canal. Longer options loop inland. Our late afternoon tie-ups are always at the center of a town that merits your pre-dinner exploration. Once everyone is seated for dinner in the panoramic dining room, the ship unties and moves to our next day’s ride.

The Mozart & Strauss Deck staterooms have French Balconies. You’ll both be able to lean out to share beautiful views up and down the river. All double-staterooms are 161 square feet, plenty of room for a king-width bed. Suites are about 50% larger (237 square feet) and provide room to entertain your friends. The Haydn Deck Staterooms have a tall and wide fixed window. Featuring the same floor-plan and amenities as upper deck staterooms, with the curtains closed you can’t tell which deck you’re on.

Compared to an inn-to-inn tour, you’ll visit additional regions while gaining an hour a day by not having to repack and change hotels. The panoramic view staterooms on the Amadeus Star are not only cleaner, fresher, and quieter than most hotel rooms, on this bicycle tour you’ll sleep better by not having to adjust to a new mattress, pillow, and thermostat each night.

On any day you don’t feel like riding, an inland cruise comes with fascinating scenery. While aboard you can nap, read, use the wifi, catch some rays on the sundeck, or enjoy a massage or spa treatment.

Another daily option is to hop aboard Sergio’s picture-window coach to reach and enjoy the mid-ride attractions without pedaling. Meals? The ship’s panoramic dining room accommodates all, and serves three gourmet-quality meals per day curated by our 5-star chef, each with enough choices to please everyone.

The forward Panorama Lounge/Bar has 270-degree views and seating for all our guests. The Amadeus Club is a more intimate venue at the rear of the ship. Both the Lounge & Club are great places to relax, catch up on emails, post a few photos on social media, or read a nice book.