2026 Classic Anabaptist Heritage Tour

2026 Classic Anabaptist Heritage tour

When:

May 17 - June 1

Tour Leader(s):

Activity Level:

Lake Manapouri in New Zealand, with its tranquil waters reflecting surrounding mountains and a partly cloudy sky

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.

At a Glance

May 17 - June 1, 2026
16 Days, 16 Nights

Pricing

Itinerary

May 17 | 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 reception—your first chance to connect, share stories, and begin the journey together.

May 18 | 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.

May 19 | 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.

May 20 | 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.

May 21 | 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.

May 22 | 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.

May 23 | 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.

May 24 | 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.

May 25 | 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.

May 26 | 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.

May 27 | 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.

May 28 | 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.

May 29 | 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.

May 30 | 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.

May 31 | 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.

June 1 | 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How active is this tour?

This tour is rated as “Active”. Expect up to 2-3 hours of walking each day, including well-paced walking tours with breaks on the coach to drive from one destination to the next. Be aware that this tour involves a few challenging hikes (especially due to the heat), however, travellers may choose to stay on the coach and will still be able to see sites from a distance. Please carefully consider if this level of activity will be feasible for you before you register.

Please note: itinerary subject to change.

For further information, please contact us. We would be happy to be of assistance.

Tour Fare

Classic Anabaptist Heritage Tour – Tour Fare

Tour Fare per person:

Double Occupancy:

Early Bird Pricing (registration before November 17, 2025): $5,459 USD / $7,469 CAD

Standard Tour Fare (registration between November 17, 2025 - January 17, 2026): $6,209 USD / $8,469 CAD

Single Supplement:

$1,055 USD / $1,445 CAD per person

What do “Double Occupancy” and “Single Supplement” mean for my tour fare?

The price for a tour listed under “Double Occupancy” means the amount paid per person if you are sharing a room with another traveller, such as your spouse or a travel partner. If you prefer to have a single hotel room to yourself, the “Single Supplement” is an additional amount to cover the extra cost charged by the hotels for a single room.

Important note: Costs could increase if you sign up less than 90 days before a tour begins

Fare Includes:

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

Fare excludes:

International airfare
Airport transfers to hotel
City transit or taxi services where necessary
Lunches
Beverages with meals
Schengen Area Visa Waiver (ETIAS)
Travel medical (out-of-country emergency) and cancellation/interruption insurance

Insurance

Insurance

Travel medical (out-of-country emergency) insurance and cancellation/interruption insurance are not mandatory but are highly recommended. Click here to learn more about insurance services we offer.

Payments

All rates shown are in effect at time of printing (January 2025). Although every effort is made to maintain the prices as established, TourMagination does reserve the right to adjust prices on this tour should it become necessary. For your convenience, we accept online credit card payments.