Germany
North
Experience the Vibrant History and Culture of Berlin
- Visit iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag Building.
- Explore the remnants of the Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie.
- Immerse yourself in history on Museum Island (UNESCO).
- Experience the diverse and vibrant arts and culture scene.
- Discover the unique character of different neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg.
- Explore significant WWII and Cold War sites like the East Side Gallery.
- Enjoy the city's numerous parks and green spaces like Tiergarten.
- Experience Berlin's vibrant street art scene in areas like the East Side Gallery and Kreuzberg.
- Explore diverse culinary offerings reflecting the city's multiculturalism.
- Experience Berlin's legendary nightlife, from techno clubs to alternative bars.
Explore the Metropolitan Grandeur of Hamburg
- Discover the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district and take a canal cruise.
- Experience the lively atmosphere and entertainment of the Reeperbahn district.
- Visit the impressive Miniatur Wunderland, a world-renowned model railway exhibit.
- Explore the modern HafenCity district and admire the Elbphilharmonie concert hall.
- Wander around the Alster lakes and enjoy boat tours.
- Visit the St. Michael's Church ("Michel") for panoramic city views.
- Explore Hamburg's vibrant music scene, from live venues in St. Pauli to classical concerts in the Laeiszhalle.
- Discover the diverse culinary landscape, including fresh seafood and international cuisine, especially around the harbor and in neighborhoods like Schanzenviertel and Karolinenviertel.
- Experience the Reeperbahn in St. Pauli, known for its nightlife, theaters, and entertainment.
- Explore the alternative culture and independent shops in the Schanzenviertel and Karolinenviertel.
Experience the Historical Charm of Lübeck
- Walk through the iconic Holsten Gate, a symbol of the city.
- Explore the well-preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Indulge in Lübeck's famous marzipan at Niederegger.
- Visit the Buddenbrook House, dedicated to the famous literary family.
- Take a scenic boat trip along the Trave River.
- Explore the charming courtyards and alleyways (Gänge).
- Visit St. Mary's Church, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
Discover the Fairytale Appeal of Bremen
- See the famous statue of the Bremen Town Musicians.
- Wander through the picturesque Schnoor quarter with its tiny, colorful houses.
- Visit the impressive Bremen Cathedral and its lead cellar.
- Stroll along the Weser River promenade (Schlachte).
- Explore Böttcherstraße, an art nouveau street with unique architecture.
- Visit the Marktplatz with the Rathaus (City Hall) and Roland statue (UNESCO).
Experience the Cultural Highlights of Cologne
- Explore Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) and the surrounding Old Town with its colorful houses.
- Visit Roman museums like the Römisch-Germanisches Museum to see artifacts from the city's ancient past.
- Experience the Kölsch beer culture in traditional breweries.
- Explore the vibrant art scene and museums in Düsseldorf.
- Discover the industrial heritage and cultural attractions of the Ruhr area (e.g., Essen's Zollverein).
- Visit the historic city of Münster with its charming Prinzipalmarkt.
- Experience the lively carnival and christmas market celebrations (seasonal).
Relax on the Baltic Sea Coast
- Enjoy the sandy beaches and seaside resorts like Warnemünde and Binz.
- Visit the stunning chalk cliffs of Jasmund National Park on Rügen Island (Königsstuhl).
- Explore the historic harbor towns of Stralsund and Wismar (UNESCO).
- Take a dip in the Baltic Sea or try water sports like sailing and windsurfing.
- Explore the charming piers and promenades in towns like Heiligendamm and Sellin.
- Discover the diverse islands like Usedom and Poel.
- Visit the Ozeaneum in Stralsund to learn about the Baltic and North Seas.
Discover the Lakes and Nature of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
- Explore the vast network of interconnected lakes by boat, kayak, or canoe.
- Visit charming lakeside towns like Waren (Müritz) and Röbel (Müritz).
- Discover the Müritz National Park with its diverse flora and fauna.
- Enjoy cycling and hiking trails through picturesque landscapes.
- Experience the tranquility of the rural countryside.
- Consider a visit to Schwerin with its island castle.
Explore the Unique Landscape of the Lüneburg Heath
- Witness the stunning purple heather bloom in late summer.
- Explore traditional heath villages with their characteristic architecture.
- Enjoy hiking and cycling through the open heathland and forests.
- Visit the historic salt town of Lüneburg.
- Discover the unique flora and fauna adapted to the heath environment.
Experience the Coastal Charm of the North Sea Region
- Explore the Wadden Sea (UNESCO World Heritage) during low tide and try mudflat hiking.
- Visit charming fishing villages and harbors along the coast.
- Enjoy fresh seafood and the maritime atmosphere.
- See iconic lighthouses dotting the coastline.
- Consider a trip to one of the North Frisian Islands (Sylt, Amrum, Föhr) or East Frisian Islands (Norderney, Langeoog).
- Experience a traditional "Teetied" (tea time) in East Frisia.
Discover the Historical Significance of Lower Saxony
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage town of Goslar in the Harz Mountains.
- Hike through the scenic Harz Mountains National Park.
- Visit the imperial palace in Goslar.
- Discover the charming half-timbered houses in towns like Quedlinburg (just south, but often grouped with the Harz).
- Learn about automotive history at the Autostadt in Wolfsburg.
- Explore the historic university town of Göttingen.
South
Explore Munich and its Bavarian Surroundings
- Immerse yourself in Munich's beer culture at the Hofbräuhaus and other beer gardens.
- Visit the Marienplatz with the Glockenspiel and Frauenkirche.
- Explore world-class museums like the Deutsches Museum and the Pinakotheken.
- Stroll through the Englischer Garten, one of the world's largest urban parks.
- Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Viktualienmarkt.
- Take a day trip to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial.
- Visit the Nymphenburg Palace, a stunning baroque palace.
Discover the Majestic Bavarian Alps and Lakes
- Tour the fairytale castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau near Füssen.
- Hike or ski in the Bavarian Alps, with stunning views from the Zugspitze.
- Relax by the beautiful Lake Starnberg or Lake Ammersee.
- Visit the charming town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a gateway to the Alps.
- Explore the picturesque Berchtesgaden National Park and Königssee lake.
- Drive along scenic alpine roads like the Deutsche Alpenstraße.
Explore the Historical Treasures of Franconia
- Discover the medieval charm of Nuremberg, including its Imperial Castle.
- Wander through the romantic streets of Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage city.
- Visit Würzburg and the impressive Residenz Palace (UNESCO).
- Explore the historic city of Bayreuth, known for its Wagner Festival.
- Explore the charming town of Coburg with its Veste Coburg fortress.
- Sample the local Franconian beers and wines.
- Visit the Margravial Opera House in Bayreuth (UNESCO).
Discover the Beauty of the Black Forest
- Hike or bike through the scenic Black Forest trails.
- Visit traditional spa towns like Baden-Baden.
- See the famous cuckoo clocks and traditional half-timbered houses.
- Enjoy the panoramic views from the Schwarzwaldhochstraße (Black Forest High Road).
- Explore the charming city of Freiburg with its Münster.
- Take a boat trip on Lake Titisee or Schluchsee.
- Indulge in Black Forest gateau and local wines.
Explore Heidelberg and the Rhine Neckar Region
- Visit the iconic Heidelberg Castle and enjoy views of the Neckar River.
- Stroll through the charming Old Town of Heidelberg.
- Explore the romantic Philosopher's Way.
- Visit the historic cities of Mannheim and Ludwigshafen.
- Drive along the scenic Bergstraße (Mountain Road) with its vineyards and castles.
- Experience the vibrant cultural scene of the region.
Discover Stuttgart and the Surrounding Area
- Visit the Mercedes-Benz Museum and Porsche Museum.
- Explore the Staatsgalerie and other art museums.
- Relax in the Schlossplatz (Palace Square) and surrounding parks.
- Visit the Wilhelma Zoological-Botanical Garden.
- Explore the charming half-timbered town of Esslingen.
- Discover the vineyards surrounding Stuttgart.
Explore the Scenic Beauty of Lake Constance (Bodensee)
- Visit the island town of Lindau with its iconic harbor entrance.
- Explore the flower island of Mainau.
- Visit the medieval town of Meersburg with its castles.
- Take a boat trip on the lake.
- Enjoy cycling or walking along the lakeside paths.
- Visit the Pfahlbauten (Pile Dwellings) in Unteruhldingen (UNESCO).
Discover the Unique Character of the Swabian Alb
- Explore the dramatic Hohenzollern Castle.
- Visit the Lichtenstein Castle, known as "Fairytale Castle of Württemberg".
- Hike or bike through the unique karst landscape with caves and cliffs.
- Visit the Urach Waterfall.
- Explore traditional Swabian towns and villages.
Savor the Flavors of the Southern Wine Regions
- Explore the Baden wine region, known for its Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder) and Riesling.
- Discover the Württemberg wine region and its unique red grape varieties like Trollinger and Lemberger.
- Drive along scenic wine routes, stopping at vineyards and tasting rooms.
- Visit charming wine villages and enjoy local cuisine paired with regional wines.
- Learn about the history and tradition of winemaking in the south.
Travel the Romantic Road
- Visit the perfectly preserved medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
- Explore the charming walled town of Dinkelsbühl.
- See the Ries Crater in Nördlingen.
- Discover the beauty of Weikersheim Castle.
- Visit the baroque town of Füssen, at the foot of the Alps.
- Enjoy the scenic drive through picturesque landscapes and villages.
Explore Frankfurt
- Admire the impressive skyline from the Main River banks or a skyscraper viewpoint.
- Visit the Römerberg, Frankfurt's historic central square.
- Explore the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment) with its diverse range of museums.
- Stroll through the Sachsenhausen district, known for its traditional apple wine taverns (Apfelweinwirtschaften).
Suggested Travel Itinerary
Germany - 11 Weeks
Days 1-6: Exploring Berlin's History, Culture, and Nightlife
- Visit iconic historical landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag Building.
- Explore remnants of the Berlin Wall and visit Checkpoint Charlie.
- Immerse yourself in the museums on Museum Island, such as the Pergamon Museum and the Neues Museum.
- Experience the diverse atmospheres of neighborhoods like Kreuzberg (known for street art and alternative culture) and Prenzlauer Berg (with its charming cafes and historical buildings).
- Delve into Cold War history at the DDR Museum and the Stasi Museum.
- Consider a day trip to Potsdam to explore Sanssouci Palace and its gardens.
- Discover vibrant street art in areas like the East Side Gallery and along urban canals.
- Explore the diverse culinary scene, from traditional German food to international cuisine influenced by Berlin's multicultural population.
- Experience Berlin's renowned nightlife, from techno clubs in former industrial spaces to alternative bars in various neighborhoods.
- Consider attending a performance at one of Berlin's numerous theaters or music venues.
Days 7-11: Discovering Hamburg's Maritime Grandeur and Cultural Scene
- Explore the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district and the modern HafenCity, perhaps taking a harbor cruise to see them from the water.
- Visit Miniatur Wunderland for its impressive model railway and miniature cityscapes.
- Discover Hamburg's music scene, from live venues in St. Pauli to concerts at the Elbphilharmonie.
- Explore the diverse culinary scene, including fresh seafood and international options, particularly around the harbor and in districts like Schanzenviertel.
- Experience the Reeperbahn in St. Pauli, known for its entertainment (optional).
- Enjoy the Alster lakes (Außenalster and Binnenalster) with a walk or boat ride.
- Consider exploring the alternative culture and independent shops in the Schanzenviertel and Karolinenviertel.
- Experience Hamburg's nightlife in areas beyond the Reeperbahn.
- Visit the Elbphilharmonie for its architecture and potential for a concert.
Days 12-14: Exploring Lübeck's Hanseatic History and Marzipan Craft
- Explore Lübeck's UNESCO Old Town: Wander the medieval streets around Marktplatz, noting the brick Gothic architecture.
- See the Holsten Gate (Holstentor): Examine this iconic gate and consider the museum inside for its history.
- Indulge in Niederegger marzipan: Visit the Stammhaus near the Rathaus to sample various creations and learn about Lübeck's famous craft.
- Take a Trave River boat trip: Enjoy views of the Old Town skyline and historic harbor.
Days 15-17: Experiencing Bremen's Fairytale Atmosphere and Weser Culture
- Explore the Schnoor quarter with its narrow, winding streets and historic buildings.
- Visit the Marktplatz, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and see the Bremen Town Musicians statue and the Town Hall.
- Discover Böttcherstraße with its unique architecture, artisan shops, and the Glockenspiel.
- Explore the Weser River promenade and consider a boat trip.
- Try local specialties like Knipp or Labskaus in traditional restaurants.
Days 18-20: Discovering the North Sea Coast and Frisian Culture
- Experience the unique landscape of the Wadden Sea (UNESCO), perhaps with a guided mudflat hike.
- Visit charming coastal towns like Husum or Cuxhaven and enjoy the maritime atmosphere.
- Learn about Frisian culture and language in local museums or cultural centers.
- Enjoy fresh seafood, such as Fischbrötchen or North Sea shrimp.
Days 21-23: Exploring the Harz Mountains' History and Nature
- Discover the historical towns of Goslar and Quedlinburg, both UNESCO World Heritage sites known for their medieval architecture.
- Consider a ride on the Harz Narrow Gauge Railway, perhaps up to the Brocken mountain.
- Explore the natural beauty of the Harz National Park with a hike.
Days 24-25: Experiencing Weimar's Cultural Heritage
- Visit Goethe's House and Schiller's House to learn about these literary giants.
- Explore the Bauhaus Museum to understand the history and impact of this design movement.
- Wander through the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site associated with the Weimar Classicism movement.
Days 26-29: Immersing in Cologne's Culture and Rhine Lifestyle
- Explore Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) and the surrounding Old Town with its colorful houses.
- Visit Roman museums like the Römisch-Germanisches Museum to see artifacts from the city's ancient past.
- Experience the Kölsch beer culture in traditional breweries.
- Stroll along the Rhine promenade and enjoy the river views.
Days 30-32: Cruising the Scenic Rhine Valley
- Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site with castles and vineyards.
- Explore charming wine towns like Rüdesheim and Bacharach.
- Visit some of the historic castles along the Rhine.
Days 33-35: Exploring Würzburg and the Start of the Romantic Road
- Explore the Würzburg Residenz Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Visit Marienberg Fortress for views of the city and the Main River.
- Sample Franconian wine in a traditional Weinstube.
Days 36-39: Discovering the Medieval Charm of Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Wander through the well-preserved medieval streets and walk along the town walls.
- Visit the Plönlein, a particularly picturesque spot.
- Consider a night watchman tour to learn about the town's history.
Days 40-42: Continuing the Romantic Road
- Visit charming towns like Dinkelsbühl and Nördlingen, known for their medieval architecture.
- Explore the Ries Crater near Nördlingen, a geological wonder.
Days 43-46: Exploring the Bavarian Alps Foothills and Castles
- Visit Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles near Füssen.
- Enjoy the alpine scenery around Füssen.
Days 47-53: Immersing in the Bavarian Alps
- Explore Garmisch-Partenkirchen: This town at the foot of the Zugspitze offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and experiencing traditional Bavarian culture. Consider visiting the historic Ludwigstraße.
- Hike in the Alps: Consider specific hikes based on your fitness level, such as the Partnach Gorge (Partnachklamm) for a dramatic natural experience, or trails around Eibsee lake at the base of the Zugspitze.
- Visit the Zugspitze: Take the cogwheel train or cable car to the summit of Germany's highest peak for panoramic views of the Alps.
- Experience traditional Bavarian culture: Look for local festivals, beer gardens with traditional music, and try regional specialties like Weißwurst frühstück (white sausage breakfast) or Apfelstrudel.
- Explore charming villages: Consider visiting picturesque Bavarian villages like Oberammergau (famous for its Passion Play and wood carvings) or Mittenwald (known for its violin making).
- Consider a cable car ride to other peaks: Explore mountains like the Alpspitze with its thrilling "AlpspiX" viewing platform.
Days 54-58: Discovering Munich and Upper Bavaria
- Explore Munich's key attractions: Visit Marienplatz with the Glockenspiel, stroll through the Viktualienmarkt for local produce and atmosphere, and relax in the Englischer Garten.
- Visit world-class museums: Explore the Deutsches Museum (science and technology), the Alte Pinakothek (European paintings 14th-18th century), the Neue Pinakothek (19th and early 20th century art), and the Pinakothek der Moderne (modern and contemporary art and design).
- Experience the Hofbräuhaus: Visit this famous traditional Bavarian beer hall for a taste of local beer and culture.
- Consider a day trip to a lake: Explore Starnberger See (known for its scenic beauty and historical connections), Ammersee (with charming lakeside towns), or Chiemsee (home to Herrenchiemsee Palace).
- Explore the Residenz: Visit the former royal palace in Munich, showcasing opulent rooms and historical artifacts.
- Discover the trendy Glockenbachviertel and Schwabing districts: Explore their unique shops, cafes, and nightlife.
- Consider a visit to the BMW Welt and Museum: Explore the history and innovation of the Bavarian car manufacturer.
Days 59-61: Exploring Stuttgart and its Automotive Heritage
- Visit the Mercedes-Benz Museum to explore the history of the iconic automobile brand.
- Discover the Porsche Museum and learn about the evolution of this legendary sports car manufacturer.
- Explore the Staatsgalerie Stuttgart, home to an impressive collection of art from various periods.
- Stroll through the Schlossplatz (Palace Square) and the surrounding parks.
Days 62-65: Exploring the Black Forest
- Hike or bike through the Black Forest's scenic trails.
- Visit a spa town like Baden-Baden and experience its thermal baths.
- See traditional cuckoo clocks in the region.
- Explore charming villages with half-timbered houses, such as Gengenbach or Triberg.
- Indulge in Black Forest cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte).
Days 66-68: Enjoying Heidelberg's Romance
- Visit Heidelberg Castle and explore its ruins and the Great Barrel.
- Stroll through the charming Old Town (Hauptstraße) and along the Neckar River.
- Walk the Philosopher's Way for scenic views of the city and castle.
- Visit the Studentenkarzer (students' prison) for a glimpse into student history.
Days 69-74: Discovering the Beauty of Lake Constance
- Visit the island town of Lindau with its picturesque harbor and lighthouse.
- Explore Mainau Island (the "Flower Island") with its stunning gardens and butterfly house.
- Discover the medieval town of Meersburg with its two castles.
- Consider a boat trip on Lake Constance to enjoy the surrounding scenery and visit other lakeside towns like Konstanz.
Days 75-77: Exploring Frankfurt's Modern Skyline and Culture
- Admire the impressive skyline from the Main River banks or a skyscraper viewpoint.
- Visit the Römerberg, Frankfurt's historic central square.
- Explore the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment) with its diverse range of museums.
- Stroll through the Sachsenhausen district, known for its traditional apple wine taverns (Apfelweinwirtschaften).