France & Germany By Train

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Paris

   Paris is situated in the northern part of France. The city sprawls over both banks of the Seine River and on two islands: the Îles Saint Louis and the larger Île de la Cité. The historical city center is built around the Seine, and it has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. For a glimpse into the oldest part of Paris, take a stroll along the Seine and around the 1st and 4th districts to admire iconic landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris or the Louvre Museum, among others. But leave some space and time for the rest of the city's districts, as each of Paris' 20 arrondissements possesses incredible treasures to discover.

   Welcome to Paris! We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and drive you to your centrally located accommodation. The journey time to the city center is about one hour.

   

   Welcome to the City of Light

   When in Paris, seizing every opportunity to witness the city in the evening is a must. The illuminated skyline, showcasing iconic landmarks and monuments, paints a mesmerizing picture of the City of Light that shouldn't be missed. As the sun sets, the city transforms into a sparkling spectacle, with city highlights casting their radiant glow over the Seine River. Whether you're strolling along its banks or cruising on an all-glass-top boat, the magic of Parisian evenings is an experience to savor.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 1 hour and 15 minutes

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

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Paris

   

   Paris in a Day Group Walking Tour

   This full-day tour shows you around the best of Paris in the most hassle-free way. Enjoy skip-the-line access to world-renowned sites, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, in the company of your expert local guide. End your day in style with a sunset cruise along the tranquil waters of the Seine.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 9 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Paris

   A Taste of Paris

   A taste of Paris is a culinary odyssey, highlighting the best of French gastronomy, from iconic dishes like coq au vin to the allure of fresh pastries in charming boulangeries. Parisian street markets showcase vibrant local produce, while the city's café culture invites leisurely moments. Renowned for its wine and cheese, Michelin-starred restaurants, and diverse international cuisines, Paris offers a unique and unforgettable journey through a world of culinary delights.

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   The Original Flavors of Paris Private Tour

   Discover the unique flavors of Paris at one of the city’s most fascinating neighborhoods, that of Saint Germain des Prés. During the walking tour, your guide will take you to artisanal shops, local boutiques, and quaint markets. This will be a culinary journey into the very core of Paris. From the quintessentially Parisian croissants to the mandatory cheese and wine, your taste buds are in for a treat.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   French Wine & Cheese Group Tasting Experience

   Through this experience, you will learn about wine and cheese. During the two-hour experience, you get to taste six tantalizing French wines, expertly accompanied by six French cheeses! All from famous regions of France. This wine-tasting experience suits everyone, whether you have a deep understanding of wine or know very little. So, you can drink, chat about French wines, discover different French wine regions, learn how to pair wine, and ultimately enjoy a memorable and unique moment in Paris.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   The Sweet Tooth Private Stroll

   If your sweet tooth is craving a bit of Parisian magic, this tour is what you’re looking for. In the company of your private guide, you will wander around the exciting Saint Germain des Prés neighborhood, sampling some of Paris’ most decadent sweets along the way.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 1 hour and 30 minutes

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Paris Ultimate Group Food Tour

   There's no better place to uncover the secrets of French cuisine than the charming neighborhood of Marais in Paris. In the course of almost four hours, you'll eat your way through the French capital's quaintest streets and corners, discovering the legends and stories that lie behind every typical cheese type, recipe, and dish. Along the way, you'll meet the people who own some of the city's best family-run restaurants.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

4. Day 4 Your Third Full Day in Paris

   A Glimpse Into the Artistic Side of Paris

   Throughout its history, Paris has never ceased to attract artists and intellectuals from all over the globe. With several museums and galleries hosting world-class masterpieces within their walls, Paris is heaven on earth for art enthusiasts. If you're passionate about art, we recommend taking a private tour of Montmartre, the French capital's quintessentially artistic neighborhood and the very place where artists like Picasso and Lautrec had their studios and created some of their most incredible works of art.

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   The Village of Montmartre Private Tour

   With the magnificent Sacré Coeur Basilica overlooking the almost unbearably pretty Montmartre, this neighborhood feels like a painting coming to life. Quaint cobblestone alleys, the romantic Place du Tertre, and the legendary Moulin Rouge are only a few of Montmartre’s charms to discover during this 2-hour tour. A must for fans of the film Amelie.

   • Activity Level : Strenuous
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Closing Time at the Louvre Group Tour - Mona Lisa at Her Most Peaceful

   On this tour, you can visit the Louvre without the big crowds that flock to the world-renowned museum as you'll visit the Louvre near its closing time. This allows you to marvel at the Mona Lisa in its most peaceful state. Yet, the magic doesn't stop there. During this three-hour tour, you'll be shown around the best of the museum's collection and even glimpse the building's moat foundations. All this is in the company of an expert local guide who'll ensure your experience is truly unique.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Midnight in Paris Vintage Car Private Experience

   On this special tour, you get to have fun while exploring the locations of the film Midnight In Paris from an open-top, classic French car—the iconic Citroën DS! You will also admire Paris from an entirely new angle and in style. You will see its monuments, its large avenues, and its steep little streets, all from the luxury of this sporty little number. Hop into the car with an easy pickup from a central location and let your guide and driver take you through the city, offering helpful information and anecdotes as you go. Oh, Paris! We love you.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

5. Day 5 Traveling to Strasbourg by Train / Arrival in Strasbourg

   

   It's time to say au revoir to Paris today and head to another exciting French city: Strasbourg. We will arrange your transfer to the train station and provide you with second-class train tickets. If you prefer, you can upgrade to first class for an additional fee. There are several train departures to Strasbourg daily, and you can choose your preferred departure time. The train ride lasts about two hours.

   The largest city in eastern France, Strasbourg is the official seat of the European Parliament. It also hosts the European Council, among other EU institutions. Strasbourg is situated in Alsace, a cultural region in eastern France, just a stone's throw from the country's borders with Germany. Since the 17th century, the Germans and the French took turns ruling the region, which resulted in an unparalleled blend of cultures. German traits remain in the more traditional aspects of life, such as cuisine and architecture, whereas modern institutions are dominated by French culture. Alsace is famous for its quaint villages and stunning architecture, but also for the wine, beer, and fruit liquors produced there.

   When you arrive at the train station in Strasbourg, a driver will be waiting for you to take you to your accommodation.

   

   Discovering Strasbourg's UNESCO Wonders

   In 1988, the Grande-Ile in Strasbourg was appointed to UNESCO’s prestigious World Heritage List. A few decades later, UNESCO decided to add the Neustadt, the new town, to the list to celebrate Strasbourg's unique culture. Shaped by the French and Germanic influences the city has seen throughout the centuries, Strasbourg's culture reflects the city's distinct architecture. A great way to enjoy Strasbourg's beauty is to take a river cruise from the center, near the cathedral.

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

6. Day 6 Your First Full Day in Strasbourg

   

   Colmar, Riquewihr, and Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle Small Group Day Trip

   This is the essential one-day experience in Alsace you can't miss if you want to make the best of your stay in Strasbourg. Visit the enchanting Colmar and Eguisheim villages to get lost in their charming cobblestone streets. Enjoy some free time for lunch and wine tasting in stunning Riquewihr before you get a glimpse of the Haut Koenigsbourg Castle in the company of your guide.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 9 hours

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

7. Day 7 Your Second Full Day in Strasbourg

   

   Savoring Alsatian Delicacies

   Today, you will get to know Strasbourg and its culture through its best local food and wine products. You'll sample its true flavors through a selection of tasty items from the Alsace region at three specially selected stops in the historical city center, where you will be offered amazing tastes and flavors. Your guide will spice the tour up with a fun, informative background on Strasbourg's history and culture.

   Included in your vacation package price

8. Day 8 Traveling to Munich by Train / Arrival in Munich

   Today you'll be crossing into Germany. We will arrange for a driver to take you to Strasbourg train station from your accommodation in plenty of time for your scheduled train. The train journey to Munich takes a around 4 hours and requires one change. Standard class tickets are included in your package. For an additional fee these can be upgraded to first class.

   With its traditional beer halls, designer shops, trendy restaurants and international business, Munich is a mix of old and new, German and cosmopolitan. Largely rebuilt after World War II, the city still retains its old world charm, even in the midst of expansion and modernization. You’ve probably heard of the city’s world famous Oktobertfest, a once-in-a-lifetime party dedicated to that incredible Bavarian beer along with some of the local delicacies, including tasty schnitzel. But there’s much more to Munich than drinking, and on your holiday you’ll have the chance to discover the best this charming city has to offer. Don’t miss out on the beer halls and the breweries, but be sure to get off the beaten path to discover a Munich of your own. Much of the city’s past centers around World War II, and there are several ways you can explore this chapter of Munich’s history, including a day trip to the Dachau concentration camp and a special tour focusing on Hitler and the local activities of the Third Reich. Munich is also a center of industry and there is nowhere better to experience this than BMW World. Moving slightly farther afield, Neuschwanstein Castle makes the perfect day trip, perched high in the hills over a verdant valley. Munich’s variety means there’s more than enough to satisfy even the most diverse groups of travelers. Let your curiosity guide you as you explore this unique German city.

   You will be greeted at Munich Hauptbahnhof when you arrive and brought to your central accommodations.

   

   See the City from Above

   Although not a city of skyscrapers, Munich offers numerous wonderful viewpoints. The best panoramic views of the Old Town are available from the St. Peter's Church (or "Old Peter," as the locals call it) viewing platform, which is climbed by thousands of visitors every day. Climb the 300 stairs (no elevator available) for the breathtaking views of the Frauenkirche and the Town Hall. Munich's highest point, the Olympic Tower, offers views over the whole city and on a clear day the Alps beyond. You can even enjoy a unique perspective on the city via a modern zeppelin, although these rides are offered rarely, and book up quickly (the zeppelin is generally used for tours of Lake Constance, on the Swiss border).

   Suggestion to explore on your own

9. Day 9 Your First Full Day in Munich

   

   Munich City Group Walking Tour

   Munich has a lot to offer when it comes to history, culture, art and of course, beer. Explore this magnificent city during your walking tour and get involved in the daily life of the locals as well. During your tour you will see the most important historical sights, the busiest streets and the most amazing beer halls too, all whilst learning about the rich history of the city.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   Eat and Drink Like a True Bavarian

   Germany is famous for its beer and food culture, so we naturally recommend jumping into an unforgettable gastronomic experience while you’re in Munich. The best place to start is the city’s most storied beer hall, the Hofbrauhaus. Reservations are strongly recommended, but even just stopping by for a glimpse is worthwhile. And after a nice glass or two of beer, we suggest you try a true Bavarian dish, such as Leberknödelsuppe (liver dumpling soup) or Schweinsbraten (roasted pork). If you’d like to better explore the region’s distinct culinary traditions, we recommend a food and beer tour with an expert local guide. Your stomach won’t regret it!

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Bavarian Food & Beer Private Tour

   Munich, the self-proclaimed "Beer Capital of the World," takes great pride in its beer halls, beer gardens, and, of course, the legendary Oktoberfest. This 3-hour walking tour offers an engaging introduction to the history of Bavarian beer and Munich’s vibrant beer culture, which have shaped not only cherished traditions but also played pivotal roles in German history and politics. As you explore some of Munich's finest traditional beer halls and restaurants, you'll indulge in plenty of delicious food and drink. Savor a variety of local beers and enjoy classic Bavarian snacks, from freshly baked pretzels to a hearty Brotzeit platter. Come hungry—this tour is as much a feast as it is a journey into the heart of Munich’s beer heritage!

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Bavarian Beer Group Tour

   What could be a more fitting way to explore Munich than a beer tour? On this splendid evening with like-minded fellow-travelers you'll see why Munich is considered by many to be the beer capital of the world as you not only delve into amazing beers, pretzels, and cold cuts, but also the role Munich's beer culture has played in its history and that of Germany itself.
   

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   Watch the video

   

   More Than a Viktualienmarkt Small Group Food Tour

   Prosperous Munich is perhaps Germany's food capital. This tour invites you to discover the various culinary delights of Bavarian/Franconian cuisine on an easy walk. You'll discover a great variety of food in a relatively small area. The neighborhood around Viktualienmarkt is rich in historical sites as well. You will explore the Marienplatz, the local food market and the Jewish Quarter, with its synagogue - all within a few hundred meters. As you walk, you'll stop by food stalls, taste local samples and wash them down with real Bavarian beer, for a fulfilling experience!

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

10. Day 10 Your Second Full Day in Munich

    Wait a Minute - That's the Disney Castle!

    One of the most impressive sites near Munich is the magnificent Neuschwanstein Castle, a palace built by Ludwig II, Empress Sisi’s possibly mad cousin. You’ve probably seen it before, as it’s one of the country’s most photographed (and photogenic) sights. Now, you have the opportunity to visit this magnificent place and live out a Disney fantasy for a few hours. The easiest way to get to the castle is to participate in our group tour, which comes with entry tickets. It’s a whole day trip, so be sure to prepare some snacks and water and be prepared to be overwhelmed by the castle and its surroundings.

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

    

    Neuschwanstein Castle Day Trip with Private Transportation (Non Refundable)

    Embark on a private day tour from Munich to explore King Ludwig II's enchanting castles. Travel through idyllic Bavarian landscapes to Neuschwanstein Castle, skip the lines, and enjoy a guided tour, a visit to Mary's Bridge, or a hike through Pöllatschlucht Gorge. Next, journey to Linderhof Palace, Ludwig’s only completed castle, inspired by France’s Sun King. Along the way, discover baroque churches, Bavarian traditions, and savor a local lunch in stunning surroundings (Payable locally). A perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery!

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 10 hours

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

    

    Private Neuschwanstein Castle Day Trip with 1st Class tickets on Public Transportation

    This region of Germany is renowned for its charming historic villages and breathtaking fairy-tale castles, including the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle. On this full-day excursion, you'll experience the best of both worlds. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the area's history as you explore enchanting villages and awe-inspiring castles, taking in the stunning scenery along the way.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 10 hours

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

11. Day 11 Traveling to Berlin by Train / Arrival in Berlin

    The capricious capital of Berlin is your next destination. The train ride from Munich varies between 4 and 5 hours, but there are numerous trains each day. Based on your preferred departure time, we'll arrange for a driver to bring you from your accommodation to the train station. We'll have booked second class tickets with seat reservations, but first class tickets can be arranged for an additional fee.

    

    You can upgrade your transfer

    Berlin by Private Transfer with a Stop in Nuremberg

    Upgrade for an additional cost

    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.

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

    

    Where to Wander on Day One?

    It can be hard to decide how to spend your first hours in Berlin, since the city offers so much for every personal preference. If you’d like to see the city’s more artistic and hip side, we recommend focusing on the district of Kreuzberg, southeast of the city’s Mitte (“middle”) district. If you’d prefer to stay within walking distance of your hotel, we suggest focusing on the area around Hackescher Markt, north of Museum Island, or heading to Alexanderplatz, where you’ll find the city’s best view from atop its signature TV tower. Speak to your local representative for insider tips.

    Suggestion to explore on your own

12. Day 12 Your First Full Day in Berlin

    

    Berlin City Group Tour

    Enjoy a three hour walking tour and delve into the turbulent and far-reaching history of Berlin, from its humble beginnings as a fishing village through to the momentous events of the 20th century, when it was the capital of the Nazi Third Reich, then a divided city during the Cold War and, ultimately, the modern capital of a reunified Germany

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 3 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    Berlin's Role in WWII

    Berlin has become a center of memorializing WWII, especially at the memorial to Jewish victims of the Holocaust, or the Reichstag building. If you have a bit more time, visit the German History Museum, or the Topography of Terror, located at the former SS/Gestapo headquarters, Sitting right next to one of the longest remaining segments of the Berlin Wall, by Checkpoint Charlie, this sobering museum is especially effective in showing the rise of Nazism, and its very earliest days in power.

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

    

    Third Reich Group Walking Tour

    Explore sites connected to Berlin's darkest period, learning about the rise and fall of the Third Reich. An expert local guide will point out reminders of the final Soviet attack on the city's core, including the fighting for the Reichstag. You will then visit the site where Hitler's bunker was once located, and many other places connected to the Nazi regime and its horrors, learning about the lives of the city's people, those who aided and resisted the regime, as you go.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 3 hours

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

    

    Third Reich Private Walking Tour

    Explore sites connected to Berlin's darkest period, learning about the rise and fall of the Third Reich. An expert local guide will point out reminders of the final Soviet attack on the city's core, including the fighting for the Reichstag. You will then visit the site where Hitler's bunker was once located, and many other places connected to the Nazi regime and its horrors, learning about the lives of the city's people, those who aided and resisted the regime, as you go.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 3 hours

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

13. Day 13 Your Second Full Day in Berlin

    

    Palatial Potsdam

    Potsdam's pastoral landmarks are spread out over a wide area. We recommend touring the manicured landscapes by bike. With this tour, you’ll take a train to Potsdam, then pick up your bikes, followed by ten miles of biking at an easy pace. After a day of opulence and nature, you’ll take another train back to Berlin’s center. You can keep your bike after the tour, at a discounted rate.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 6-7 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    The Best Local Food

    Berlin is a sprawling city with enclaves from around the world, so it can be hard to decide what to focus on. In some districts, you’ll find Turkish or Vietnamese eateries on every block. We suggest seeking out the city’s signature foods: currywurst and doner kebab. The former is very simple, a hotdog in ketchup sauce mixed with curry powder. The latter is popular throughout Europe, but Berlin is its birthplace, and remains home to countless variants. If you'd prefer to have somebody local to help you with tips for the best places to eat, join one of the following tours.

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

    

    East Meets West Food and History Small Group Tour

    Discover the real Berlin, in the vibrant and urban souls of Kreuzberg and Neukölln. These fascinating, unique districts charm like no other, sporting an alternative, chic, and hip style while still firmly connected to the city's history shortly before and after the fall of the Wall. "Kreuzkölln," as the locals nickname the two neighborhoods, is also the home to world-famous street murals, the largest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall, and the largest Turkish community outside of Turkey. There is so much to discover on this tour of the most hip part of Berlin. You'll join an intimate group led by an expert foodie guide, who will take you off the beaten path and along backstreets to discover the local food scene, and the fascinating history of these two areas.

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 4 hours

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

    

    Private Berlin Street Food Tour

    Berlin is oozing with history, charm and delicious flavours. Let us take you on a tour through Berlin's hidden courtyards to places you just simply wouldn't find on your own. With your passionate food enthusiast and experienced tour guide you will wander through Mitte, one of Berlin's coolest districts, for an unforgettable culinary experience, showcasing the diverse cuisines on offer in Berlin. Berlin's foodie scene is relatively new, evolving in the past 15 years in part due to a huge influx of young foreigners bringing flavours from around the globe. Now the street-food scene, third-wave coffee movement and charming supper clubs attract tourists just as much as the traditional sites. Berlin has a long tradition of being moulded by different waves of immigration coming into the capital. Many cultures have left their mark on the city: Turkish, Vietnamese and most recently Syrian. You'll explore the history behind the flavours as well as tasting them. Please wear comfortable shoes and come hungry!

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 3 Hours

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

14. Day 14 Departure Day

    A driver will pick you up at your Berlin accommodation and drop you off at Brandenburg Airport for your departing flight.