MANNHEIM

Mannheim is a city in southwest Germany, on the Rhine and Neckar rivers. The baroque 18th-century Mannheim Palace houses historical exhibits, plus the University of Mannheim. In the grid-like center, called the Quadrate, Marktplatz Square features a baroque fountain with statues. Planken shopping street leads southeast to the Romanesque Water Tower, in the art nouveau gardens of Friedrichsplatz


I am going to visit Mannheim Germany in December. What the best thinks to tour on my own?

CHATGPT

Mannheim is a vibrant city with a mix of modernity, culture, and history. In December, it transforms into a festive destination. Here are the best things to explore on your own:

1. Mannheim Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt)

Held at Friedrichsplatz, the Christmas market features charming stalls selling crafts, decorations, and regional treats. The historic Water Tower (Wasserturm) serves as a stunning backdrop.
 
Even in winter, this expansive park is a peaceful retreat. Stroll through its landscaped gardens, visit the greenhouse with exotic plants, or enjoy the seasonal decorations.

3. Baroque Palace (Schloss Mannheim)

Tour one of the largest Baroque palaces in Europe. Explore the museum inside, which gives insight into the life and history of the Palatinate electors.
This renowned art museum showcases an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Its innovative architecture is worth admiring as well.
A group of museums offering diverse exhibits ranging from ancient civilizations to modern photography. They are ideal for history and culture enthusiasts.

6. Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche)

Admire the grandeur of this Baroque church with its ornate interior and peaceful ambiance.
The Water Tower is Mannheim’s landmark. The surrounding Friedrichsplatz is beautifully lit during December, creating a magical atmosphere.

8. Planken Shopping Street

Go holiday shopping or simply enjoy the festive decorations along this bustling pedestrian street in the city center.
Explore this interactive museum of technology and innovation. It's a great place to learn about Germany's industrial history.

10. Walk Along the Rhine and Neckar Rivers

Mannheim is located at the confluence of these two rivers. Take a relaxing riverside walk or enjoy the winter scenery from one of the bridges.

11. Sample Local Cuisine

Enjoy hearty German dishes like Bratwurst, Schnitzel, or Maultaschen at local restaurants. Pair them with regional wines or Mannheim's craft beers.

Mannheim’s grid-like city layout makes it easy to navigate, and many attractions are within walking distance. Be sure to dress warmly and enjoy the festive charm of this unique city!

The daily tour starts in Mannheim and ends in Rudesheim. In the morning the ship stops at Mannheim for the included excursion and for departure of the Heidelburg excursion. During lunch the ship continues onto Rudesheim. 

INCLUDED EXCURSION

Mannheim & Yuletide Market
Duration: 3 hours (Sightseeing, Easy, Gifts)

Visit a Historic Town and Shop for Traditional Gifts

Celebrate the Christmas season and discover the history and culture of Mannheim. Transfer by motor coach to the city center to explore the “Chessboard City” of Mannheim, famed for its grid-like layout dating back to the 17th century. Set out on a walk to see one of the city’s imposing landmarks, the Wasserturm (Water Tower), and discover the various districts and its oldest building, St. Sebastian Church. If you are lucky, you may hear the glockenspiel from the tower that rings three times a day. Immerse yourself in the yuletide season at the Christmas market and learn how advent was celebrated here in the past. Enjoy free time to browse for unique gifts as you relish in the festive scents and sounds of the colorful market stalls, before returning to your ship.

$$ EXCURSION

Highlights of Heidelberg at Christmas  
Duration: 9 hours (Sightseeing, Local Life, Meal, Easy)

Germany’s Oldest University Town and Its Students During the Yuletide Season

Discover Heidelberg, a town so steeped in charm that it stood at the center of the German Romantic movement. Join your guide for a drive to Heidelberg, then ascend to the majestic Heidelberg Castle, a treasure trove of Renaissance-era buildings. Built during the early 13th century, it was once the residence of the Palatinate monarchy. Descend into the Old Town for a walking tour to the turreted Heidelberg University. Along the way, pass a festive Christmas market, its vendors filling the Market Square with holiday cheer. See the school’s tower, where unruly boys were incarcerated for misdeeds, and the Red Ox tavern, where they boasted to their mates about their imprisonment. Share a special lunch with a group of modern-day students and hear their views on attending Germany’s oldest university. After, enjoy free time to browse the Christmas market, before returning to your ship.

From the Student Prince in Heidelberg

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