Grand Tour of Germany

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

   

   Gardens and Palaces of Potsdam Bike Group Tour

   Potsdam is Berlin’s most popular day trip destination, and for good reason. It’s a veritable playground for biking, with many Prussian and Cold War sights tucked deep in parks and along quiet alleyways. This 6.5-hour tour includes a train ride and cruising on a bike. Along the way you'll see some of the most unique sights in Potsdam, a paradise of gardens and palaces. The tour starts by taking the train from the TV Tower shop to Potsdam, where bikes are waiting for you. At the end of the tour you will take the train back to the shop in Alexanderplatz.

   We recommend to wear comfortable shoes and come prepared for an action-filled day!
   

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

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

   

   Contemporary Art in Berlin

   Berlin’s contemporary art spaces push boundaries and delight in equal measure. Just about every corner is flourishing with art, as creativity and cultural richness continue to burgeon and influence the city. It is impossible to recommend just one but to mention at least three - Contemporary Fine Arts or CFA, is one of the best spots to soak up the world-class contemporary art in Berlin. Available only by appointment and guided tour, the Sammlung Boros, also known as the Boros Bunker (it's located in a giant above-ground air raid shelter), is one of Berlin's most exclusive art experiences and finally be sure to check out the Hamburger Bahnhof, Berlins premier contemporary art gallery housed in a former railway station.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

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

   

   Discover a very different German city - Dresden. Regular train connections between Berlin and Dresden mean you can choose your departure time and the journey takes around two hours. Your hotel reception will be able to arrange a taxi for you to Berlin's Hauptbahnhof station, which is much cheaper than a transfer service, so we haven’t included that in your package. However, a transfer can be arranged upon request. Once on the train, all you need to do is unwind and watch the German countryside speeding by. Your package includes second class tickets with seat reservations, upgrades to first are available for an additional fee.

   

   You can upgrade your transfer

   Dresden by Private Transfer with a Moritzburg Palace Stop

   Upgrade for an additional cost

   Dresden has had one of the most volatile histories of any city in Europe, being almost totally reduced to rubble in World War II. The city today is a unique combination of remembered and honored history and a vibrant, entertaining present. There are several historical buildings throughout the city that attest to the destruction here, but Dresden has rejuvenated itself since World War II, and today is one of Germany’s most tourist-friendly cities, with an enchanting energy and entertainment all year round. Famous for its Christmas markets, Dresden also has plenty to offer in the warmer months, from museums and memorials, to intriguing new architecture, pleasant parks, and nearby destinations for day trips. History comes alive everywhere you look in Dresden, and we highly recommend taking a closer look at the city’s museums and the traces of the past in the architecture. The city also has a rich cultural program, with numerous galleries and concert taking place quite regularly. You can certainly sample hearty German cuisine here, as well as more modern Continental flavours. You’ll love exploring this lovely city and the surrounding region.

   When you arrive at Dresden Hauptbahnhof you will easily find the station’s taxi rank signposted. We haven’t included a transfer here because in our experience meet & greet transfer services in Dresden are very overpriced, unreliable and the driver can be hard to locate in the station. Dresden's taxis are honest, reasonably priced and you’ll have no problem finding one at the station’s taxi rank, so you’ll save both time and money by taking one to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   Dresden Old Town Private Walking Tour

   A must-do for getting to know the city of Dresden is strolling through its historical Old Town. From the majestically situated Theatre Square with the world-famous Semper Opera House to the baroque Zwinger Festival Square with its striking landmark - the Crown Gate and from the galleries lined with fountains to Taschenbergpalais, the former residence of Countess Cosel, Dresden remains a major cultural centre of historical memory.
   

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

5. Day 5 Traveling to Nuremberg by Private Transfer / Arrival in Nuremberg

   

   Today you will leave from Dresden and travel to Nuremberg. A driver will pick you up from your accommodation at your preferred departure time. The drive takes about 3.5 hours, depending on the traffic. If you'd like, we can arrange a stop along the way in Bamberg for an additional fee.

   Nuremberg in northern Bavaria is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and delicious local food. Head to the Old Town to see its houses, stone towers, and fortifications, and to marvel at the Schöner Brunnen ("Beautiful Fountain") located in the "Hauptmarkt" main square. Kaiserburg castle is the most famous place to visit here, with its impressive insight into the city's history. But, there is so much more to Nuremberg; this is a lively modern city with lots of interesting museums, different festivals and events and a great variety of international cuisine. Even among Germans, the city is known for its beer, sausages, and gingerbread, so come hungry!

   Upon arriving in Nuremberg, your driver will bring you directly to your accommodation.

   

   Climb the Castle Hill

   After getting settled, we recommend ascending through the city to the imposing castle at one end of the historic center. The castle and the neighboring city walls are considered one of the most imposing medieval fortifications in Europe. In contrast, the castle itself offers the best view of the city and its preserved center. Be sure to check out the castle gardens, which are a quiet retreat from the bustle of the city.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Your First Full Day in Nuremberg

   

   Old Town and Nazi Rally Grounds Group Walking Tour

   Join a group walking tour and discover this amazing medieval town with a professional guide. You'll dive deep into the city's sometimes dark history, including its ties to Nazism.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 4 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   See the City's Best Museums

   The National Germanic Museum is home to the country's largest collection of German art and culture. The museum has more than 1.3 million items, from antique toys and dollhouses to pivotal treaties, imperial seals, unusual musical instruments, and fine works of art. The museum is located on Kartäusergasse, which also hosts the Way of Human Rights, a monument dedicated to world peace that stretches all the way down the street. The city's other most famous museum is the Nuremberg Transport Museum, which is composed of the DB Museum (run by Deutsche Bahn, the German Amtrak) and the Museum of Communications.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Traveling to Munich by Train / Arrival in Munich

   You're off to the Bavarian capital today. We'll include standard class train tickets in your package for one of the regular high-speed (just over an hour) services from Nuremberg to Munich. If you'd like an upgrade for the 1st class, we can arrange that for an additional fee. We haven’t included a transfer here because in our experience transfer services in Nuremberg are very overpriced. Nuremberg's taxis are honest, reasonably priced and you’ll have no problem arranging for one with your hotel reception.

   

   You can upgrade your transfer

   Munich by Private Transfer with Stops along the Romantic Road

   Upgrade for an additional cost

   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.

   When you arrive at Munich Hauptbahnhof you will easily find the station’s taxi rank signposted. We haven’t included a transfer here because in our experience meet & greet transfer services in Munich are overpriced, unreliable and the driver can be hard to locate in the vast station. Munich’s taxis are honest, reasonably priced and you’ll have no problem finding one at the station’s taxi rank, so you’ll save both time and money by taking one to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   First Night, First Beers

   When in Munich, drink as the locals do. Munich has undoubtedly earned its title as “Beer Capital of the World,” so what could be a better activity for your first night than going to one of its famed beer halls or beer gardens, meeting locals, and hearing their stories? If you’re teetotal or raucous beer halls aren’t your thing, you can take a nice walk along Neuhauser Strasse, followed by the Kaufingerstrasse, leading to the city’s most famous square, the Marienplatz, with its magnificent city hall, the Neues Rathaus.

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

   Watch the video

8. Day 8 Your First Full Day in Munich

   

   Munich Private Walking Tour

   Explore Munich's iconic historical landmarks, stunning churches, and renowned beer halls. This tour delves into the darker chapters of the city's 20th-century Nazi history, while also showcasing its vibrant, charming side. Along the way, you'll hear captivating stories and fascinating facts that bring the city’s rich past to life.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Feast Your Eyes in the Alte Pinakothek

   Munich is a fantastic city for art and culture lovers. With over 80 museums – many of which are just €1 on Sundays – as well as art galleries, you can explore anything from ancient sculpture to cutting-edge contemporary design. Among them is the Alte Pinakothek, one of the world's oldest art galleries, dating back to 1836. This museum was intended by King Ludwig I to serve as the world's largest museum, as echoed by its impressive castle-like exterior.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

9. Day 9 Your Second Full Day in Munich

   

   Hike the Alps

   Munich is inseparably connected to the Alps. If you're an active traveler, you shouldn't miss the chance to hike in the Bavarian Alps. The landscapes are lush, the valleys are full with hidden pastures, dairy farms, and huts, and you can head for ruined castles and well-preserved monasteries when the weather refuses to cooperate. There are a range of different hikes on offer, some easier hikes, some more challenging, to provide a fun, memorable day, no matter the weather.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 8 hours

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

   

   Oktoberfest, Year-Round

   Gathering knowledge with a pint of beer in your hand? That's possible! And where else but in Munich? Learn about centuries of brewing, spiced with intrigue and turf wars, and the commitment to traditions which make Bavarian beer so famous. The Oktoberfest Museum awaits you with long opening hours, great beers, and giant pretzels. If you are not into taking a guided beer tour, we still recommend visiting this museum to learn about this special Bavarian festival and more.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

10. Day 10 Traveling to Rothenburg by Private Transfer / Arrival in Rothenburg

    Today you will leave trade Munich for Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Your driver will pick you up at your accommodation and take you on the Romantic Road. En route, you will stop in two charming medieval towns - Nördlingen and Dinkelsbühl. The transfer takes about five hours and 30 minutes, including the stops. Please note that this transfer does not include a guide. Our local representative will be available to provide you with recommendations for these two towns.

    Sitting on the banks of the Tauber river, Rothenburg is a German medieval go-to, picturesque and vivid, a true throwback to some other times. This walled town used to be one of the biggest places in Germany during Middle Ages, and has kept its charm to this day. Although small in size and population, Rothenburg is home to many festivals and events, so there is a good chance you'll stumble upon one or two while there. Photos do not really do justice to the town; its beauty and atmosphere inspired many German artists, writers and painters and it is known as the most romantic place in Germany.

    Upon arriving in Rothenburg, your driver will bring you directly to your accommodations.

    

    Night Watchman Private Tour

    A unique way to experience this picturesque medieval town, join a night watchman on his patrol, as he ensures a safe and peaceful night.

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 1 hour

    Included in your vacation package price

11. Day 11 Your First Full Day in Rothenburg

    

    Rothenburg Private Walking Tour

    Join a professional guide and explore this hidden medieval gem on a private walking tour. You will have the chance to learn about Rothenburg's history, architecture and stories only known to locals.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 2 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    

    Charming Town, Charming Museums

    Despite its small size, Rothenburg punches above its weight, offering some fascinating museums. Museums like Walburga's House, the Crime and Punishment Museum, ad the City Museum bring the history of Rothenburg to life. All are interactive and informative, enjoyable for travelers of every age. Your local representative will recommend places that focus on both the city, and some more unusual topics.

    Suggestion to explore on your own

12. Day 12 Traveling to Heidelberg by Private Transfer / Arrival in Heidelberg

    Today you will leave Rothenburg for Heidelberg. Based on your preferred departure, time a driver will pick you up in your accommodations in Heidelberg and bring you directly to Rothenburg, a two-hour drive.

    An official UNESCO "City of Literature," Heidelberg is devoted to learning, home to Germany's oldest university, and one of Europe's most famous. If you can't study something at Heidelberg, it doesn't exist. But even if you're not there to join the students who make up 1/4 of Heidelberg's population, there's plenty to do. The massive hilltop Heidelberg Castle is at the top of your list, and the valley the castle sits within offers plenty of great places to take it in before you enter the castle itself. The Baroque Old Town is great for a stroll, with a stop or two in its cozy cafes along the way, as are its medieval university buildings. Many of Heidelberg's best views can be found from the Philosophers' Walk across the river from the city center, trod upon by centuries of thinkers.

    Upon your arrival in Heidelberg, a driver will bring you directly to your accommodations.

    

    Heidelberg Old Town and Castle Private Tour

    Heidelberg's historic Old Town has much more to offer than just the iconic Alte Brucke ("Old Bridge"), charming alleyways, and stunning views of one of Germany's most famous castles. Here, picturesque squares connect like pearls on a string, with locals and visitors from around the world gathering in cozy cafes, lively pubs, and exploring the city's museums and theaters. Take a guided tour to fully experience the heart of Heidelberg and discover its hidden treasures.

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 3 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

13. Day 13 Traveling to Frankfurt by Train / Arrival in Frankfurt

    Today you will travel from Heidelberg to Frankfurt by train. Based on your preferred departure time we will book train ticket for you. The train journey takes around an hour. Please note that we didn't include a pick-up from the hotel but the staff will be able to help you get a taxi for the short drive.

    

    You can upgrade your transfer

    Frankfurt by Private Transfer

    Upgrade for an additional cost

    The birthplace of German democracy, Frankfurt is now more famous for its bankers, and the skyscrapers they have funded. A hub from the very beginning (the name comes from a river ford used by the Franks who went on to conquer France), Frankfurt's airport offers flights to more destinations than any other, and you can seemingly take trains anywhere from here, too. This is one of Germany's most diverse cities, even when its famous trade shows aren't in town, yet next to the skyscrapers you'll find the restored old town that served as the brief capital of a democratic Germany during the failed 1848 revolutions, and remains a reminder of Frankfurt's time as one of the Holy Roman Empire's prime cities.

    Upon your arrival at Frankfurt Train Station, a driver will meet you and take you directly to your centrally located accommodations.

    

    Enjoy Local Brews

    A pub crawl is ideal for experiencing Frankfurt’s vibrant nightlife. Germany's may be famous for beers, but don't miss out on Frankfurts speciality: Apfelwein. This sour hard cider is everywhere in Frankfurt and its surroundings (you can drink it "pure," but many order it mixed with sparkling water or carbonated lemonade to reduce the sourness). To head from bar to bar, visit Schweizer Strasse in Old Sachsenhausen. This tree-line commercial street houses plenty of pubs and taverns that brew their own Apfelwein, but naturally offer plenty of local beers and wines as well.

    Suggestion to explore on your own

14. Day 14 Your First Full Day in Frankfurt

    

    Frankfurt Private Walking Tour

    Discover Frankfurt's famed highlights and hidden gems most tourists never find. From Frankfurt's beautiful old opera house, St. Paul's Church, and the stock exchange, through to the cathedral and the beautifully reconstructed new "Old Town," you will get a comprehensive overview of the city's architecture, history and culture. There is even the chance to sample one of the local markets and try the local apple juices, apple wine and white wines from the Rhine region.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 3 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    Visit Goethe's House

    The Goethe House is the restored birthplace and early home of renowned German poet, author, scientist, and statesman Johann Wolfgang Goethe, popularly considered Germany's greatest writer. The 17th century building is divided into four floors, each of which are decorated with original artifacts, furniture, and family portraits collected during his early years. The writer’s studio is located on the first floor, where Goethe wrote "The Sorrows of Young Werther," which made him an instant international celebrity and started a trend of young men dressing like the novel's hero. There’s also an onsite museum that features 14 rooms displaying busts and paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries.

    Suggestion to explore on your own

15. Day 15 Departure Day

    Based on your departure time, a driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to Frankfurt airport.