Western Germany & The Alsace

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Day Stop in Frankfurt / Arrival in Heidelberg

   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.

   

   Today, you will trade Frankfurt for Heidelberg. You will be picked up at the airport and taken directly to your accommodations at the other end, a 75-minute ride.

   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.

   

   Bar-Hopping in the Altstadt

   Heidelberg's Altsadt ("Old Town") hosts lively nightlife befitting a student city. Among the best wine bars in town is Vinothek Restaurant Oskar on Haspelgasse, which features a broad range of Old and New World labels to taste. A short walk away on Steingasse, you can sample locally brewed beers at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, home to some of the country's strongest beers, at 33% ABV! Last but not least, for a rocking night, head to Eckstein on Fischmarkt. This cool and stylish pub is a very pleasant place to spend the evening, even if you’re not a metalhead.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Heidelberg

   

   Heidelberg Old Town and Castle Private Tour

   The oldest part of Heidelberg has far more to offer than just the Alte Brucke ("Old Bridge"), picturesque alleys, and views of one of Germany's most famous castles. In the Old Town, dreamy squares are linked like beads on a necklace, with people of all ages and from around the world meeting in the many small cafes and pubs, and enjoying the city's museums and theaters. Embark on a tour with a private guide, and really get to know Heidelberg.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Dine on Genuine German Cuisine

   Heidelberg and the surrounding Palatinate region, is home to serious food aficionados who have figured out creative ways to make enjoyable dishes from simple staples over the centuries. Seek out Saumagan (a pig's stomach stuffed with lean and cured pork and sausage, bacon, potatoes, and, if in season, sweet chestnuts), Studentenkuss ("Student Kiss," a confection made of a waffle, nougat, and dark chocolate), Leberknodel (beef liver, mincemeat, eggs, and soaked bread buns, then steamed or sliced and pan-fried) and Quetschekuchen (Heidelberg’s take on plum tarts, with an apricot jam glaze).
   

   Suggestion to explore on your own

3. Day 3 Traveling to Baden-Baden by Train / Arrival in Baden-Baden

   

   Today, you will travel by train from Heidelberg to Baden-Baden. We will arrange a transfer to the train station and book economy class tickets based on your preferred departure time. An upgrade to the first class is available for an additional fee. The train journey takes around 1 hour 15 minutes.

   

   You can upgrade your transfer

   Baden-Baden by Private Transfer

   Upgrade for an additional cost

   Upon your arrival at Baden-Baden Train Station, a driver will meet you and take you directly to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   Unwind In The Thermal Springs

   The Romans already discovered the healing power of the twelve thermal springs underneath Baden Baden and built the first thermal baths 2,000 years ago. Today, the historic spa quarter (Bäderviertel) with its two thermal baths in the old town (Altstadt) are a well known attraction for many visitors From a depth of 2,000 metres, 800,000 litres of thermal water gush into the modern Caracalla Spa and the historic Roman-Irish Friedrichsbad every day, guaranteeing exclusive bathing pleasure and well-being for guests from all over the world. Be sure to visit on your next vacation in Baden Baden.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 14 hours

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

4. Day 4 Your First Full Day in Baden-Baden

   

   Black Forest Hike Private Tour

   This hike is through part of Baden-Baden's Black Forest region, where you can enjoy wonderful views. Your experienced Black Forest guide will accompany you, providing insights into the area, the natural habitats, and the forest's flora and fauna. This is an opportunity to escape the urban hustle and bustle as you immerse yourself in nature and enjoy fantastic panoramic views over the countryside. The rural countryside of Europe beckons!

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

   Included in your vacation package price

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

   

   Today, you will leave Baden-Baden and travel to the beautiful city of Strasbourg. A driver will pick you up at your accommodations based on your preferred departure time. The trip takes about 1 hour. Just so you know, this is a non-guided transfer.
   

   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.

   Upon arrival in Strasbourg, your driver will take you directly to your accommodation.

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

   Included in your vacation package price

7. Day 7 Departure Day

   Sadly the time has come to bid adieu to France as you head back home. We'll arrange for a private transfer to Strasbourg airport in plenty of time for your departing flight.