Best of Germany (12 Days)

Your German adventure begins in the vibrant city of Frankfurt. Spend the day exploring at your leisure before joining your Travel Director for an orientation of the historical Römerberg and the bustling financial district. In the evening, mingle with your fellow travellers at a Welcome Reception, complete with a light dinner and welcome drink.

Today, you'll embark on a leisurely cruise along the Rhine, soaking in the picturesque views of vineyard-clad hills. Enjoy a unique lunch experience in a 13th-century castle perched high above the river valley. Later, continue to Cologne, where you'll marvel at the Gothic spires of the magnificent cathedral during a city orientation.

Travel through the verdant landscape of Lower Saxony to the bustling city of Hamburg. Join your Travel Director for an orientation tour of the city's iconic sights. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring Hamburg's rich seafaring heritage, trendy shopping streets, or perhaps embark on a guided harbour cruise. Enjoy a delicious dinner at your hotel in the evening.

Leave Hamburg behind as you journey through the picturesque Elbe Valley to the historic city of Berlin. Here, you'll join a Local Specialist to explore the city's iconic landmarks, including the Neo-Renaissance Reichstag, the verdant Tiergarten, the symbolic Brandenburg Gate, and the famous Unter den Linden boulevard.

Ascend the iconic Berlin TV Tower for panoramic views of the city and the Spree River. Learn about the tower's transformation from a symbol of East Germany's communist regime to a symbol of a reunited Berlin. Spend the rest of the day exploring Berlin at your leisure, perhaps delving into the city's past with an optional visit to the site of Checkpoint Charlie.

Travel south to Dresden, often referred to as the 'Florence on the Elbe'. Learn about the city's restoration after World War II as you admire its beautiful Baroque façades. See the Semper Opera, Zwinger Palace, and the fully reconstructed Frauenkirche. Consider joining an Optional Experience to further explore this elegant city.

Visit the village of Mödlareuth, known as 'Little Berlin' due to its wall separating 'east' and 'west' Germany. Explore its open-air museum and see a section of the original wall. Later, arrive in Nuremberg, the economic, social, and cultural capital of Franconia. During your orientation, see the mighty castle ramparts and the impressive Frauenkirche in the Hauptmarkt main square. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps indulging in local specialties.

Stroll through the medieval town of Rothenburg, encircled by a fortified town wall that remains intact after centuries. Admire the beautiful market square, lined with half-timbered houses, and the Old Town Hall. Later, travel through the Bavarian countryside to Munich, the capital of Bavaria.

Spend the day exploring Munich, Bavaria's vibrant capital. See the distinctive towers of the Cathedral, Marienplatz, the central square, and the impressive town hall with its charming glockenspiel. The 13th-century St. Peter's church, the Viktualien food market square, and a traditional beerhall are all within a short walk.

Travel through the beautiful countryside to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, a retreat built for King Ludwig II. Continue through the magical countryside to the Black Forest, the mystical landscape that inspired the Brothers Grimm. Over dinner, learn about Hofgut Sternen's innovative design and the traditions of the Black Forest.

Witness a Black Forest treasure as you learn about the centuries-old craft of cuckoo clock making. Later, travel to Heidelberg, where you may have the chance to capture views of the ruins of Heidelberg Castle and the Baroque-style Old Town. Continue on to Frankfurt, where you'll enjoy a Farewell Dinner with your newfound friends, reminiscing over the highlights of your trip.

After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow travellers and conclude your memorable German adventure. Safe travels!