Day 2 – Bamberg Daytrip
We decided to organize our own day trip to Bamberg. The train runs frequently from Nuremburg and costs less than 10 Euros so we caught the 10:40 train to the town of Bamberg. The high speed service had us arrive 45 minutes later and we started to explore the city. Most shops were closed due to the fact that it was Sunday morning but we did find a small Christmas specialty store whose owner is a part-time tour guide. She was more than happy to offer up a few pointers on what to do and see.
We stopped for hot chocolate and enjoyed an apple desert before crossing a bridge that served as a gateway to the old city. We visited a couple of old churches including St Michael’s that dates back over 600 years. One can only marvel at the history and architecture that unfolds in abundance. Before we knew it, it was time to return to the train. 5 hours had passed in what seemed to be a blink of an eye. A quick stop back to the Christmas store to thank our impromptu guide turned into an opportunity to share a glass of Champaign and wine with the store owner as we explored her small boutique. The 3:45pm train has us back in Nuremberg in time to catch a taxi for a quick trip to the “port” where the Viking Spirit was awaiting our arrival. Check-in was more like that you would experience at a boutique hotel than a cruise ship. Within 3 minutes we were checked-in, bags delivered, and a friendly hostess showed us to the spacious stateroom.
After a brief orientation we went to the main dining room for our first gourmet dinner. The German inspired meal did not disappoint. A glass blowing demonstration was held back in the lounge for a very interesting and amusing performance by a local artisan. The day was over but was one that will not soon be forgotten.
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