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Dresden to Hamburg: Between Culture and the Coast

Dresden to Hamburg: Between Culture and the Coast

About This Cruise

This cruise combines culture, history and northern German lifestyle to create a particularly multifaceted cruise experience. The cruise begins in Dresden, where Baroque splendor, world-famous art treasures and the elegant Elbe flair of the Saxon state capital provide the perfect setting for the start of your cruise.

The route continues along the Elbe to Meissen, known for its traditional porcelain manufactory, and to Wittenberg, the heart of the Reformation. Here you will encounter European history at every turn, before reaching Magdeburg, one of the oldest cities in Germany, whose imposing cathedral dominates the cityscape.

In Brandenburg, Potsdam and Berlin-Spandau, the whole diversity of the capital region unfolds: magnificent palaces and gardens, historic old towns and the lively flair of the metropolis are in exciting contrast to each other here.

The ship continues its journey north via Genthin, Calvörde and Braunschweig. The route through the inland of Lower Saxony offers charming landscapes, tranquil waterways and insights into towns steeped in tradition. Stations such as Hannover and Uelzen combine urban life with regional charm.

Finally, you reach the Hanseatic city of Hamburg, where the cruise culminates with maritime flair, imposing port architecture and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. An atmospheric finale that harmoniously rounds off this impressive journey from the Elbe to the coast.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Adults only

    VIVA RUBY is an adults-only ship

  • Couples

    An adults-only atmosphere made for two

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

  • Solo travellers

    Low or no single supplement on selected cabins

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

VIVA RUBY

Departure Date

23 September 2027

Cruise Line

VIVA Cruises

Duration

11 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Itinerary

Germany

Dresden

Dresden is the capital of Saxony and one of the largest cities in the state. After World War II, the city on the Elbe River was painstakingly rebuilt. The Dresden Frauenkirche is a symbol of this reconstruction, which lasted from the 1990s through 2005. Magnificent 18th-century buildings adorn the city, such as the famous Semper Opera House and the Zwinger with its spacious gardens. The Royal Palace is located right in the Old Town, which is perfect for strolling.

Germany

Dresden

Dresden is the capital of Saxony and one of the largest cities in the state. After World War II, the city on the Elbe River was painstakingly rebuilt. The Dresden Frauenkirche is a symbol of this reconstruction, which lasted from the 1990s through 2005. Magnificent 18th-century buildings adorn the city, such as the famous Semper Opera House and the Zwinger with its spacious gardens. The Royal Palace is located right in the Old Town, which is perfect for strolling.

Germany

Meissen

Meissen, the cradle of Saxony, lies on the northern edge of the Dresden Elbe Valley and exudes a touch of southern cheerfulness. This venerable county seat on the Elbe is a window into history, set in stone. German emperors founded the first settlement on Slavic territory here. Inseparably linked to the city’s name is its traditional porcelain manufactory, founded in 1710, with the “Blue Swords” trademark. Alongside the city of Bautzen, Meissen boasts the best-preserved urban layout in Saxony. A visit to the city centers on history and porcelain.

Germany

Wittenberg

The city of Wittenberg offers you a deep insight into the history of the Reformation. There are numerous Luther memorials and, of course, the Castle Church, where Luther posted his theses. A visit to the Luther House is also very interesting. Take a stroll through the Piesteritz Workers’ Housing Estate—Germany’s first and largest car-free residential community—or through the Luther Garden.

Germany

Magdeburg

The city of Magdeburg on the Elbe River is the state capital of Saxony-Anhalt. Among its most striking landmarks is the Gothic Magdeburg Cathedral in the city center. Next to it stands the Hundertwasser House with the Green Citadel, where visitors can admire the artist’s distinctive architecture and colorful columns in the courtyard. The Millennium Tower, built of wood, stands 60 meters tall—making it the tallest wooden building in the world—and visitors can walk through and climb it. The beautifully landscaped Elbauenpark is also well worth a visit.

Germany

Magdeburg

The city of Magdeburg on the Elbe River is the state capital of Saxony-Anhalt. Among its most striking landmarks is the Gothic Magdeburg Cathedral in the city center. Next to it stands the Hundertwasser House with the Green Citadel, where visitors can admire the artist’s distinctive architecture and colorful columns in the courtyard. The Millennium Tower, built of wood, stands 60 meters tall—making it the tallest wooden building in the world—and visitors can walk through and climb it. The beautifully landscaped Elbauenpark is also well worth a visit.

Germany

Potsdam

Potsdam, the capital of Brandenburg, is the state’s most populous city with approximately 180,000 residents. Above all, however, Potsdam stands out for its many worthwhile attractions, some of which are even designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After all, the city was added to the so-called List of World Cultural and Natural Heritage Sites as early as 1990, as it is home to the largest concentration of World Heritage sites in Germany. Since 2019, the Brandenburg city has also been designated a UNESCO Film City. Among its best-known and most important attractions are undoubtedly the famous Sanssouci Palace with its beautiful palace gardens, as well as the Potsdam Film Museum and the Mill Museum in the historic mill.

Germany

Berlin

Berlin is the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany. Because of its great historical and contemporary significance, the city has many sights to offer.First and foremost, a few well-known landmarks should be mentioned: the Brandenburg Gate, the TV Tower, and the Victory Column. In addition, all the major government buildings are located here: for example, the Reichstag, with its famous dome, is definitely worth a visit. Furthermore, the city is home to the sites of several important historical events, such as “Checkpoint Charlie” or the “East Side Gallery,” a remnant of the Berlin Wall. There is also no shortage of shopping opportunities; for example, Kurfürstendamm is very well known.”

Germany

Berlin

Berlin is the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany. Because of its great historical and contemporary significance, the city has many sights to offer.First and foremost, a few well-known landmarks should be mentioned: the Brandenburg Gate, the TV Tower, and the Victory Column. In addition, all the major government buildings are located here: for example, the Reichstag, with its famous dome, is definitely worth a visit. Furthermore, the city is home to the sites of several important historical events, such as “Checkpoint Charlie” or the “East Side Gallery,” a remnant of the Berlin Wall. There is also no shortage of shopping opportunities; for example, Kurfürstendamm is very well known.”

Germany

Genthin

No summary for this day yet.

Germany

Genthin

No summary for this day yet.

Germany

Haldensleben

Haldensleben in Saxony-Anhalt is known for its historic old town, which features an almost completely preserved city wall approximately 1.6 kilometers long. The medieval town center features numerous alleys, squares, half-timbered houses, and gate towers, as well as the market square with Haldensleben’s neoclassical town hall and the statue of Roland on horseback. The oldest surviving building in the town is the 13th-century Bülstringer Gate Tower. In addition to exhibits on regional and cultural history, the city museum also houses part of the Grimm brothers’ estate. Other attractions include the Kühnesches Haus—an imposing half-timbered building from 1592 with beautiful ornamentation—and the vault of the so-called Templar House. The latter stands on a plot of land where the remains of the former city courtyard of the Knights Templar are located.

Germany

Calvörde

The town of Calvörde is located in northwestern Saxony-Anhalt, about 50 kilometers north of Magdeburg. Calvörde is a quiet and idyllic town, yet it also has a lively atmosphere. The town was first mentioned in 1046. Calvörde, Saxony-Anhalt, is well worth a visit and impresses with its many historic buildings and attractions. The market square is the heart of Calvörde and is also home to the town’s oldest buildings. The town hall was built in 1331, making it the oldest building. Calvörde Castle was built in the 15th century and is also very popular with tourists. It has been restored several times in recent years and now hosts various exhibitions and events. Anyone interested in learning more about the history of Calvörde should definitely visit St. Wendelinus Church. This church dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest churches in Saxony-Anhalt.

United States

Brunswick, Georgia

Welcome to Braunschweig! This beautiful city in the heart of Germany is the perfect place for a relaxing vacation. The city’s long history and cultural diversity make it an interesting and exciting place to visit. Braunschweig’s Old Town is one-of-a-kind and offers a wealth of sights and activities. Dankwarderode Castle is a must-see for any visitor to Braunschweig and offers an impressive view of the entire city. Braunschweig Castle is also a popular destination for tourists. This imposing building houses the Braunschweig State Theater and is a true gem of the city. The city also has a lot to offer in terms of cuisine. In the numerous restaurants, cafés, and snack bars in the city center, you can fill your stomach and unwind. From Asian dishes to Italian pizza to German schnitzel, there’s something for everyone. Those who prefer a romantic atmosphere can enjoy a candlelit dinner at one of the restaurants on Burgplatz.

Germany

Hannover

Our insider tip: Hanover! Let yourself be enchanted by Hanover’s charm and laid-back atmosphere! Stroll through the markets and the alleys of the Old Town, and recharge your batteries in nature—for example, around the Maschsee or in the Eilenriede City Forest. Hannover is a city where everything is close by—why not rent a bike and leisurely ride from one neighborhood to the next? Along the Ihme River, an idyllic bike path connects the Maschsee to the trendy Linden neighborhood, with its popular Saturday market, many small, unique shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafés.

Germany

Hannover

Our insider tip: Hanover! Let yourself be enchanted by Hanover’s charm and laid-back atmosphere! Stroll through the markets and the alleys of the Old Town, and recharge your batteries in nature—for example, around the Maschsee or in the Eilenriede City Forest. Hannover is a city where everything is close by—why not rent a bike and leisurely ride from one neighborhood to the next? Along the Ihme River, an idyllic bike path connects the Maschsee to the trendy Linden neighborhood, with its popular Saturday market, many small, unique shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafés.

Germany

Uelzen

Uelzen is a Hanseatic city in Lower Saxony and was formerly known as Löwenwalde. Today, Uelzen is best known for its Hundertwasser train station. Even if you’re arriving by boat rather than by train, you shouldn’t miss this impressive structure. From here, the “Path of Stones” leads into the city center. The twenty stone sculptures were created by artist Dagmar Glemme and are colorful eye-catchers throughout the city. In the center of Uelzen, Lower Saxony, buildings such as the Old City Hall, the Imperial Post Office, and the New City Hall are worth seeing. St. Mary’s Church, built in 1270, is also an important landmark. Inside is the so-called “Golden Ship,” which, along with the Hundertwasser Train Station, is a city landmark. The pedestrian zone in Uelzen, located in the area around Lüneburger Strasse and Gudesstrasse, features a variety of shops and dining options.

Germany

Hamburg

Hamburg is a port city on the Alster, a tributary of the Elbe. It is also one of the three new federal states that were established following Germany’s reunification. The Hamburg Fish Market is a popular tourist attraction. The Reeperbahn is one of the city’s most visited attractions. At the Panoptikum, a wax museum, visitors can get up close to their favorite celebrities. The Speicherstadt offers cafés, museums, and small canals, and the Elbphilharmonie, located on the banks of the Elbe, is considered a “cultural landmark for everyone.”

Germany

Hamburg

Hamburg is a port city on the Alster, a tributary of the Elbe. It is also one of the three new federal states that were established following Germany’s reunification. The Hamburg Fish Market is a popular tourist attraction. The Reeperbahn is one of the city’s most visited attractions. At the Panoptikum, a wax museum, visitors can get up close to their favorite celebrities. The Speicherstadt offers cafés, museums, and small canals, and the Elbphilharmonie, located on the banks of the Elbe, is considered a “cultural landmark for everyone.”

Overview

This cruise combines culture, history and northern German lifestyle to create a particularly multifaceted cruise experience. The cruise begins in Dresden, where Baroque splendor, world-famous art treasures and the elegant Elbe flair of the Saxon state capital provide the perfect setting for the start of your cruise.

The route continues along the Elbe to Meissen, known for its traditional porcelain manufactory, and to Wittenberg, the heart of the Reformation. Here you will encounter European history at every turn, before reaching Magdeburg, one of the oldest cities in Germany, whose imposing cathedral dominates the cityscape.

In Brandenburg, Potsdam and Berlin-Spandau, the whole diversity of the capital region unfolds: magnificent palaces and gardens, historic old towns and the lively flair of the metropolis are in exciting contrast to each other here.

The ship continues its journey north via Genthin, Calvörde and Braunschweig. The route through the inland of Lower Saxony offers charming landscapes, tranquil waterways and insights into towns steeped in tradition. Stations such as Hannover and Uelzen combine urban life with regional charm.

Finally, you reach the Hanseatic city of Hamburg, where the cruise culminates with maritime flair, imposing port architecture and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. An atmospheric finale that harmoniously rounds off this impressive journey from the Elbe to the coast.

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Suite

Suite

  • 20 m²
  • Diamond Deck
  • Welcome Aperitif with Wine and Canapes
  • VIVA All-Inclusive

EQUIPMENT:

  • Priority embarkation (1 hour before check-in)
  • Welcome Aperitif with Wine and Canapes
  • 50 EUR laundry credit (per cabin)
  • Double bed
  • French balcony
  • Beauty products from RITUALS®
  • Flat screen TV
  • Minibar with free water, beer and soft drinks, refilled daily
  • Hair dryer
  • Free WLAN access
  • Telephone, safe and air conditioning/heating
  • Bathroom with shower
  • Generous storage space in wardrobes and under the bed
  • Work area

Outside

Double Cabin Diamond Deck

  • 13 m²
  • Diamond Deck
  • French balcony
  • VIVA All-Inclusive

EQUIPMENT:

  • Double bed
  • French balcony
  • Beauty products from RITUALS®
  • Flat screen TV
  • Minibar with free water, beer and soft drinks, refilled daily
  • Hair dryer
  • Free WLAN access
  • Telephone, safe and air conditioning/heating
  • Bathroom with shower
  • Generous storage space in wardrobes and under the bed
  • Work area

Outside

Double Cabin Emerald Deck

  • 13 m²
  • Emerald Deck
  • Window (cannot be opened)
  • VIVA All-Inclusive

EQUIPMENT:

  • Two single beds (set apart on request)
  • Window (cannot be opened)
  • Beauty products from RITUALS®
  • Flat screen TV
  • Minibar with free water, beer and soft drinks, refilled daily
  • Hair dryer
  • Free WLAN access
  • Telephone, safe and air conditioning/heating
  • Bathroom with shower
  • Generous storage space in wardrobes and under the bed
  • Work area

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casual

Riverside Restaurant

Main restaurant "RIVERSIDE" with flexible dining hours and free choice of seating

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Bar, Lounge

Panorama Salon

In the Panorama Lounge, a cozy atmosphere with a magnificent view awaits you—ideal for winding down the day with a coffee or cocktail. 

Sun Deck

Sun Deck

Enjoy the beautiful view from the sun deck while enjoying a drink on a deck chair.

Reception

Reception

During your river cruise, the reception is open around the clock for you and the staff is always happy to assist you with any concerns or requests.

Shop

On-Board Shop

Would you like a souvenir of your time on board or a gift for loved ones back home? In our on-board boutique you can purchase exclusive souvenirs as well as everyday items and souvenirs.

Library

Library

Library with a selection of various books and games.