A Journey Through Northern Europe

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Berlin

   A vibrant cosmopolitan city that’s rich in history and contemporary culture, Berlin is constantly evolving. From the ruins of World War II to the Cold War division of the Berlin wall, Berlin has always managed to rebuild. Germany's largest city, this sprawling (by European standards) metropolis has excellent public transportation, from subways to an official rowboat ferry. You’ll find a little of everything here, from history to high gastronomy, art museums to palaces, and plenty of lively bars and nightclubs. The nightlife here is world-class, but there’s more than enough to see during the day. Berlin is made up of distinctive neighborhoods, each with a different character. We recommend several ways of exploring the city, from a Cold War walking tour to a bike tour to see all the must-see sights in a simple and easy way. An exploration of the long and volatile history of Jewish culture in the city is eye-opening as Jewish life in Berlin has been meticulously documented. Many of the city’s art and culture museums offer unforgettable glimpses into history. Potsdam offers the perfect diversion for an afternoon, and Sanssouci Palace, with its well-tended gardens, is a beautiful reminder of the city’s impressive past. The past comes alive in Berlin, but the present is very much alive as well.

   Welcome to Berlin! You will be met at the Berlin Brandenburg airport and have transport arranged to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   See the City From Above at Alexanderplatz

   One of the liveliest places in Berlin, Alexanderplatz is East Berlin's unofficial main square, with cinemas, restaurants, shops and many other places of interest close by. The EU's second tallest structure, the Berlin TV Tower, has been Berlin's dominant landmark for decades. The express elevator will get you to the observation deck with panoramic views high above the city. You can see and plan your next move at some of the city’s well-known sights, from the Reichstag Parliament building and Brandenburg Gate to the Olympic Stadium or former Tempelhof airport, all while enjoying a meal in the revolving restaurant.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Berlin

   

   Berlin Private Walking Tour

   On the private tour, your guide will impress you with stories of Berlin's amazingly rich history. From Slavic forts to Prussian kings and the foundation of Germany in 1871, through WWI, the rise of the Weimar Republic and the Nazis who replaced it and ushered in WWII, the divisions of the Cold War, and the city’s resurrection as capital of a reunified country, you’ll explore the city’s rollercoaster history. Believe us when we say that there’s a lot to learn from this tour!
   

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   A Museum Paradise

   The historical significance of Berlin as a former imperial capital and its current status as a thriving global cultural hub are vividly reflected in its diverse array of museums, offering an abundance of choices to explore. For enthusiasts of art and archaeology, a visit to Museum Island is a must. This UNESCO-listed museum complex boasts a world-renowned art collection spanning across seven museums. Adjacent to this cultural treasure, the German History Museum, situated on the site of a thwarted assassination attempt against Hitler, provides a comprehensive journey through German history, from its earliest settlements to the present day. Berlin's museums promise a captivating exploration of its rich and multifaceted cultural tapestry.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Berlin

   

   Potsdam, City of Kings: 6-hour Private Walking Tour

   Potsdam was a city of kings – a German Versaille where the Hohenzollern monarchy of Prussia constructed lavish palaces in which they could spend their summers. It was also the setting for the Potsdam Conference, where geopolitical giants Josef Stalin, Harry Truman and Winston Churchill met in the summer of 1945 to seal the post-war fate of Germany and Europe. This 6-hour walking tour takes you to the heart of Potsdam’s UNESCO-listed palace gardens to see the pomp and grandeur of the Prussian monarchy and also explores the origins of the Cold War.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 6 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   

   Pick up Some Very Berlin Souvenirs

   Berlin's definitely a design forward city so what better to bring home as a reminder of your time here than something from one of the city's many local designers. Several neighborhoods lend themselves to a shopping expediton. Prenzlauer Berg is great for strolling and dropping into designer shops, Kreuzberg is all about the vintage stores. The highest concentration of designer shops however is to be found in the Hackescher Markt, Germany’s largest enclosed courtyard area and you'll find it chock full of Berlin-made goods.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

4. Day 4 Traveling to Hamburg by Train / Arrival in Hamburg

   

   Today you will leave Berlin and head to port city Hamburg. You will be traveling by high-speed ICE train and we will book the tickets based on your preferred departure time, as there are train connections between Berlin and Hamburg every hour. The duration of the train ride is around 2 hours. We will book a seat in second class but if you'd prefer, we will make a reservation in 1st class for a small additional fee. We will arrange a driver to meet you at your accommodation and take you to the train station.

   A private driver will be waiting when you arrive at Hamburg Hauptbahnhof and will transport to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   Honey I Shrunk the World!

   Step into a world of wonder at Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg, the largest model railway in the world. Marvel at intricate, detailed miniature landscapes that span various countries and iconic cities. Watch as tiny trains, cars, and airplanes move through meticulously crafted scenes, bringing this miniature universe to life. Perfect for visitors of all ages, Miniatur Wunderland offers an enchanting experience filled with creativity and imagination. Don't miss the chance to explore this unique attraction—it's a must-see highlight of Hamburg!

   Suggestion to explore on your own

5. Day 5 Your First Full Day in Hamburg

   

   Historic Hamburg Private Walking Tour

   This private walking tour through Hamburg's captivating past is an ideal way of getting to see and know its highlights. Trace the city's rich history from its 9th-century origins as a strategic fortress protecting trade routes to its rise as one of Europe's foremost ports. Wander the historic cobblestone lanes of the medieval Speicherstadt, once the bustling hub of maritime commerce. Admire the majestic Rathaus, a testament to Hamburg's resilience in the aftermath of war. Explore the cutting-edge architecture of HafenCity, symbolizing the city's modernity and innovation. Along the way, delve into Hamburg's pivotal role in the Hanseatic League, its vibrant cultural tapestry, and its unwavering spirit of progress.
   

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 2 Hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Something For Everyone

   Immerse yourself in Hamburg's rich cultural tapestry by exploring its diverse array of museums and musical theaters. Begin your journey at the Kunsthalle Hamburg, a renowned art museum boasting an extensive collection of European masterpieces spanning centuries. From the intricate brushstrokes of Old Masters to the bold innovations of contemporary artists, there's something to captivate every art enthusiast.

   For a deeper understanding of Hamburg's maritime legacy, venture to the International Maritime Museum, housed within the historic Speicherstadt district. Here, you'll discover fascinating exhibits chronicling the city's seafaring history, from ship models to naval artifacts, offering a glimpse into Hamburg's vital role as a bustling port city.

   Delve further into Hamburg's past at the Hamburg Museum, where immersive displays and interactive exhibits tell the story of the city's evolution over the centuries. From its humble origins as a medieval trading hub to its emergence as a global metropolis, the museum provides a comprehensive look at Hamburg's rich cultural heritage.

   If contemporary art is more your style, head to the Deichtorhallen Hamburg, a dynamic art center housed in two historic buildings. Featuring rotating exhibitions of photography, modern art, and design, Deichtorhallen offers a fresh perspective on the ever-evolving world of contemporary art.

   No visit to Hamburg's cultural scene would be complete without experiencing its vibrant musical theater productions. From the dazzling spectacles of Stage Theater im Hafen to the intimate performances at Theater Neue Flora, Hamburg's musical theaters showcase world-class productions that promise to dazzle and delight audiences of all ages.

   With its eclectic mix of museums and musical theaters, Hamburg offers a cultural journey that is as diverse as it is captivating.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Traveling to Amsterdam by Airplane / Arrival in Amsterdam

   

   Bid farewell to Hamburg’s vibrant port city and get ready to explore the charming canals and artistic spirit of Amsterdam! Today you’ll take a short flight from Hamburg to Amsterdam, a journey of around 1 hour 15 minutes, making your transition between these two dynamic European cities quick and comfortable. We’ll arrange a private transfer to the airport to ensure a smooth and easy departure.

   
   

   Please note that the flight included in your package is in Economy Class (or a similar class). This includes one cabin bag (8-10 kg / 17–22 pounds) and one checked bag (up to 23 kg / 50 pounds). If you’re interested in upgrading to a higher class (available only on certain airlines), just let us know, and we’ll be happy to check availability and cost. Please also note that the included flight is non-refundable and flight prices are subject to change until the trip is confirmed.

   Amsterdam is dubbed the Venice of the North, and for good reason. Spanning more than 60 miles, the city’s 165 canals define Amsterdam and provide the perfect backdrop to the iconic 16th century buildings that seem to be floating sleepily on the calm waters. Art is central to Amsterdam’s cultural identity, as the city’s museums are abundant in masterpieces by Van Gogh, Vermeer, Rembrandt, and several other geniuses of Dutch painting. Traditionally a bike-friendly city and with a mind to ensure a relaxed lifestyle for residents and visitors alike, Amsterdam never stops improving and expanding its cycling infrastructure and facilities.

   Welcome to Amsterdam! A driver will meet you at the airport to take you to your centrally located accommodation. The drive to the city center takes about 30 minutes.

   

   Mingle With Locals in Amsterdam

   There's no better way to get to know a city than to hang out where the locals go. While in Amsterdam, don't miss the chance to relax at Vondelpark, the locals' favorite park. For a colorful memory, stop by Bloemenmarkt, a flower market where locals buy flowers and meet to chat. Last but not least, make sure you spend some time at De Pijp, a district frequented by locals, with authentic cafes and restaurants.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Your First Full Day in Amsterdam

   

   Amsterdam City Highlights Private Tour

   If you are short on time but still want to get a sense of what Amsterdam is all about, this private tour is for you. During this fascinating walking tour, your knowledgeable guide will let you in on the city's secrets and walk you through the Dutch capital's history, its most famous attractions, and lesser-known treasures.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Amsterdam Evening Canal Group Cruise

   Amsterdam is nicknamed Venice of the North for a reason. With more than 1300 bridges and a wide network of charming canals, the Dutch capital is one of the most romantic cities in Europe. The best way to take in Amsterdam's beauty is to join an evening canal cruise and watch in awe as the city's thousands of lights create a magical scene that you won't easily forget.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 1 hour

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

8. Day 8 Your Second Full Day in Amsterdam

   

   Getting to Know Amsterdam, One Museum at a Time

   No Amsterdam visit is complete without exploring renowned museums like the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, or the Stedelijk Museum for fine arts masterpieces. Beyond the museum district, NEMO and Micropia offer interactive experiences for science enthusiasts. Delve into Amsterdam's history at the Museum of the Canals, Amsterdam Museum, or National Maritime Museum. The city's diverse museums cater to various interests, ensuring an enriching experience for all.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

   

   Van Gogh Museum Tickets

   The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam houses the world's largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, showcasing over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters. You can explore the artist's masterpieces and gain insights into his life, artistic development, and influence on modern art.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

9. Day 9 Departure Day

   A driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the airport for your departing flight. The drive takes about 30 minutes.