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).