Heritage Stories · Europe
Classic Anabaptist Heritage Tour
OVERVIEW
Classic Anabaptist Heritage Tour
May 17 - June 1, 2026
From $5,459 USD / $7,469 CAD
This classic Anabaptist heritage tour traces the Anabaptist/Mennonite story through Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, and the Netherlands. Visits to significant sites will bring to life the stories of Reformation and Anabaptist leaders. Other tour highlights include: an afternoon cruise on the Rhine River, a visit to the Rijksmuseum, climbing into the foothills of the Swiss Alps to the Cave of the Anabaptists, visiting Trachselwald Castle, riding a cable-car up a mountain, and visiting the Weierhof, a semi-communal Mennonite village. Historian and experienced tour leader John Sharp will share insights as you travel in these beautiful countries that were so important to our Anabaptist ancestors.
John Sharp
Tour Expert
16 Days
Duration
Netherlands, Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria
Countries Visited
Moderately Active
Activity Level
Trip Highlights
Trace the Anabaptist Story – Follow the Reformation journey through Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, and the Netherlands.
Explore Historic Faith Sites – Visit Trachselwald Castle, the Cave of the Anabaptists, and the Weierhof Mennonite village.
Cruise the Rhine River – Enjoy stunning scenery along one of Europe’s most iconic waterways.
Experience Art and Culture – Tour Amsterdam’s renowned Rijksmuseum and charming European towns.
Learn with Expert Guidance – Gain historical insights from storyteller and historian John Sharp throughout the journey.
DAY 1 • May 17, 2026
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Arrivals & Welcome Orientation
Touch down in vibrant Amsterdam and allow your body to ease into European time. Stroll its charming canals, sip a Dutch coffee, or simply soak in the city’s energy. In the evening, gather with fellow travelers for a warm welcome dinner—your first chance to connect, share stories, and begin the journey together.
DAY 2 • May 18, 2026
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Faith & Art in the Venice of the North
Delve into Amsterdam’s rich tapestry with a guided walking tour, including the Singel Mennonite Church and other notable sites. At the world-renowned Rijksmuseum, marvel at masterpieces by Dutch greats—and don’t miss its lesser-known but powerful Mennonite art collection. In the afternoon, float through the iconic canals aboard a riverboat, seeing the city from its most picturesque angle.
DAY 3 • May 19, 2026
Volendam, Netherlands
Blooms, Martyrs & Dutch Traditions
Begin the day with an early visit to the world-famous Aalsmeer flower auction, where over 20 million blooms from around the globe are traded each day in a dazzling whirlwind of color and activity. Continue to the quiet village of Asperen to hear the powerful story of Anabaptist martyr Dirk Willems, whose courageous act of compassion became a defining moment in Anabaptist history. In the afternoon, step into the past at Zaanse Schans, a living museum where traditional windmills turn, wooden shoes are carved, and artisan cheese is still made by hand. Conclude your day in the charming harbor town of Volendam, known for its fishing heritage, colorful homes, and lively waterfront.
DAY 4 • May 20, 2026
Friesland, Netherlands
The Legacy of Menno Simons
Travel through peaceful Friesland to discover the roots of Anabaptist leader Menno Simons. Visit his birthplace in Witmarsum and the hidden church in Pingjum where early believers worshipped in secret. End the day with a heartfelt cultural exchange—an overnight homestay with local Dutch hosts in Friesland.
DAY 5 • May 21, 2026
Giethoorn & Münster, Germany
Of Peaceful Canals and Tumultuous Rebellions
Glide through the fairytale village of Giethoorn, known as the “Venice of the North,” on a quiet canal boat. Then cross into Germany to explore Münster, the dramatic site of a radical Anabaptist uprising. Walk the old town, visit the city museum’s Anabaptist room, and reflect on the lessons of history. Optional free time for outdoor museums or cycling through the city’s medieval streets.
DAY 6 • May 22, 2026
Cologne to Worms, Germany
Cathedrals, Communities & the Reformation
Stand in awe beneath the towering spires of Cologne’s Gothic cathedral. Continue to Weierhof in the Palatinate region—Germany’s unique semi-communal Mennonite village—and visit its important archive. In Worms, walk in Luther’s footsteps and reflect at the imposing Reformation monument. Then unwind on a scenic Rhine River cruise through castle-studded landscapes.
DAY 7 • May 23, 2026
Sinsheim, Germany
Worship in Secret in Steinsfurt
Gather with the Bammental congregation for a time of shared worship and fellowship. In nearby Steinsfurt, descend into a historic cellar where 53 Anabaptists once gathered in secrecy. Climb the Steinsberg Tower for sweeping views of the Kraichgau—a region that once cradled a radical faith movement.
DAY 8 • May 24, 2026
Alsace & Strasbourg, France
The Amish Story & Alsatian Charm
Today we journey into the beautiful Alsace region of France, where rolling vineyards, timber-framed villages, and mountain vistas set the stage for a deeper exploration of Anabaptist heritage. As we travel scenic country roads, we’ll reflect on the Amish story, shaped in part by the history of this borderland region. Time permitting, we’ll pause in one or more picturesque villages for lunch and local exploration, experiencing the region’s unique blend of French and German culture. We conclude our day in Strasbourg, a city rich in Reformation history and once home to Anabaptist leader Pilgram Marpeck.
DAY 9 • May 25, 2026
Bern, Switzerland
The Emmental Valley - Faith Among the Hills
Travel into the heart of Switzerland’s Emmental region—an area of rolling green hills, quiet villages, and deep Anabaptist roots. Visit the Langnau Mennonite Church, one of the oldest continuous Mennonite congregations in the world. Explore Trachselwald Castle, where Anabaptists were once imprisoned for their beliefs, and reflect on the courage and resilience that shaped this community. If time and accessibility allow, we may visit other meaningful sites in the region that speak to the legacy of faith passed down through generations.
DAY 10 • May 26, 2026
Bern, Switzerland
The Amish Homeland & Alpine Heights
Begin the day with a guided walk through Bern’s picturesque Old Town, filled with medieval charm and timeless character. Then journey into the scenic Simmental valley, regarded as the homeland of the Amish. Visit Thun Castle and the village church in Erlenbach, where Jakob Amman was baptized. Reflect on Amish origins with a stop at the Reformed Church and cemetery in Steffisburg, rich in Anabaptist history. As the day draws to a close, ascend Stockhorn Mountain by cable car for a breathtaking summit experience. From the panoramic viewing platform, take in awe-inspiring views of the Alps, sparkling lakes, and the Bernese countryside—a stunning moment of reflection before returning to Bern for the night.
DAY 11 • May 27, 2026
Zurich, Switzerland
Where It All Began
Stand in the heart of Zurich, where the Anabaptist movement officially began in 1525. Visit Kyburg Castle and key sites from the Reformation. Later, explore Ballenberg Open Air Museum to see traditional Swiss life come alive. Cap the evening with a cozy meal of traditional Raclette—an iconic taste of Switzerland.
DAY 12 • May 28, 2026
Zurich, Switzerland
Martyrs & Mountain Reflections
Visit the poignant Schleitheim Monument—commemorating the first Anabaptist confession of faith. After lunch near the majestic Rhine Falls, embark on a meaningful pilgrimage to the Anabaptist Cave in Bäretswil, a secret worship site nestled in the forest. Share in reflection and worship where faithful believers once gathered in hiding.
DAY 13 • May 29, 2026
Innsbruck, Austria
Tyrolean Tales & Hutterite Heritage
Visit Innsbruck’s Hutter Park to see a memorial to Anabaptist martyrs, including the Jacob Hutter Anabaptist story. Enjoy lunch and apple strudel on the famous Maria Theresien Strasse. Tonight, you can attend a Tyrolean folk show to experience authentic local music, dancing, and more.
DAY 14 • May 30, 2026
Kitzbuhel, Austria
Marpeck’s Legacy & Noble Resistance
In Rattenberg, visit the former home of Pilgram Marpeck—now a glass-blowing centre—and climb to the castle ruins for a sweeping view of the valley he once called home. In Kitzbuhel, learn about the noblewoman Helen von Freyberg, who defied expectations and welcomed Anabaptists into her castle at Münichau.
DAY 15 • May 31, 2026
Munich, Germany
Final Reflections & Farewell
Stroll through the city of Augsburg, an important site in both Anabaptist and Reformation history. Share memories and newfound friendships at a farewell dinner—celebrating two incredible weeks of discovery, connection, and spiritual insight.
DAY 16 • June 1, 2026
Departure from Munich
Auf Wiedersehen!
Say goodbye to your fellow travelers, now friends, as you return home—carrying stories of faith, courage, and community that will stay with you long after the tour ends.
Pricing
Registration By:
Early Bird Rate until November 17, 2025
After November 17, 2025
Double Occupancy:
$5,459 USD | $7,469 CAD
$6,209 USD | $8,469 CAD
Single Occupancy:
$6,514 USD | $8,914 CAD
$7,264 USD | $9,914 CAD
Inclusions
High quality hotel accommodations
Land transportation within the tour
All breakfasts, 12 dinners, 1 reception / snacks
Expert tour leaders & local guides
All entrance fees and activities included in itinerary
Gratuities for drivers, guides, and group meals
Exclusions
International airfare
Airport transfers to hotel
City transit or taxi services where necessary
Lunches
Beverages with meals
Schengen Area Visa Waiver (ETIAS)
Visas (if required)
TOUR EXPERT
John Sharp
Historian · Author · Educator · Pastor · Storyteller · Curious Traveler
John Sharp is a recently retired historian who taught at Hesston (KS) College. He is a former director of the Mennonite Church USA Historical Committee and Archives. John holds an M.Div. from Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary and has 15 years of experience as a pastor.
Questions?
Reach out to our team at office@tourmagination.com
or by phone at (877) 668-2732.