Your Personalized 10-Day Itinerary for Germany

• Young Travelers: Join a free walking tour to meet other travelers.
• Seniors: Opt for a hop-on-hop-off bus tour for a comfortable pace.
• Family: Visit the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre near Potsdamer Platz.
• With Disability: Most central attractions are wheelchair accessible. Utilize accessible public transport.

• Luxury: Private guided tour with a historian.
• Adventure: A bike tour along the remnants of the Berlin Wall.
• Nature: A relaxing walk through the Tiergarten, Berlin’s largest park.

Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin: A luxurious hotel with a prime location next to the Brandenburg Gate. Book here.

Purchase a Berlin WelcomeCard for unlimited public transport and discounts on many attractions. This card is an excellent way to save money and navigate the city with ease. Plan your museum visits in advance, as some require timed tickets, especially the Reichstag Dome. Booking online can save you long queues and guarantee your entry. Always carry some cash, as smaller shops and cafes might not accept credit cards. Learning a few basic German phrases like “Guten Tag” (Good Day) and “Danke” (Thank you) will be appreciated by the locals and enhance your cultural experience.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring Berlin’s sprawling historical sites. The weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is advisable. A light jacket or a sweater is recommended even in summer for cooler evenings or air-conditioned buildings. In autumn and spring, a waterproof jacket and a scarf are essential. For a touch of elegance during an evening at a classical concert or a fine dining restaurant, smart casual attire is appropriate. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for sunny days to protect yourself from the sun while enjoying the city’s outdoor attractions and cafes.

For a classic German experience, head to a “Brauhaus” for hearty dishes like schnitzel and sausages. The area around Hackescher Markt offers a wide variety of restaurants with international cuisine in a lively atmosphere. For a quick and iconic Berlin bite, try a currywurst from a street vendor. Vegetarians and vegans will find numerous options, especially in the districts of Kreuzberg and Neukölln. For a fine dining experience, consider booking a table at one of Berlin’s Michelin-starred restaurants for an unforgettable culinary journey.

Berlin’s public transport system (BVG) is highly efficient and consists of U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (city rail), trams, and buses. A day ticket or the Berlin WelcomeCard allows for seamless travel between all modes of transport. The city center is very walkable, and many historical sites are located close to each other. Cycling is also a popular and safe way to explore, with dedicated bike lanes throughout the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available but can be more expensive than public transport.

• Young Travelers: Explore the alternative art scene and independent galleries in Friedrichshain.
• Seniors: Enjoy a guided tour of Museum Island to avoid long queues and get in-depth information.
• Family: Visit the German Museum of Technology for interactive exhibits.
• With Disability: Museum Island is largely accessible. Check individual museum websites for specific information.

• Luxury: A private art curator-led tour of a gallery.
• Adventure: A street art workshop to create your own masterpiece.
• Nature: A boat trip on the Spree River, offering unique views of the city’s architecture.

The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin: An elegant hotel offering stunning views of Potsdamer Platz. Book here.

Book your tickets for Museum Island online in advance to skip the long lines, especially during peak season. A Museum Pass Berlin offers entry to over 30 museums over three consecutive days and is a great value if you plan on visiting multiple museums. When visiting the East Side Gallery, be respectful of the art and the historical significance of the site. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking. Consider joining a guided tour of the street art scene to discover hidden gems and learn about the artists and their stories.

For a day of museum hopping and art exploration, comfort is key. Opt for stylish yet comfortable shoes. A smart casual outfit will be appropriate for most galleries and museums. In the evening, if you plan to visit a more exclusive gallery opening or an art event, you might want to dress up a bit. A chic scarf or a statement piece of jewelry can elevate a simple outfit. As with any day in Berlin, layering is a good idea. A light cardigan or a stylish jacket will be useful for transitioning from outdoor exploration to indoor museum visits.

The area around Museum Island has many cafes and restaurants perfect for a lunch break. For a trendy dining experience, explore the diverse culinary scene in Kreuzberg, known for its Turkish market and a wide array of international cuisines. Markthalle Neun is a must-visit for foodies, offering street food from around the world in a historic market hall. For a more upscale dinner, the district of Charlottenburg has a variety of excellent restaurants. Don’t miss trying some local craft beer at one of the many pubs in Friedrichshain.

Museum Island is centrally located and easily accessible by U-Bahn, S-Bahn, tram, and bus. The U-Bahn station “Friedrichstraße” is a major hub nearby. To get to the East Side Gallery, you can take the S-Bahn or U-Bahn to “Warschauer Straße” or “Ostbahnhof”. Kreuzberg is well-connected by the U-Bahn lines U1, U6, and U8. Berlin’s public transport system is integrated, so a single ticket is valid for all modes of transport. Consider renting a bike to explore the different neighborhoods at your own pace.

• Young Travelers: Rent a bike to explore the vast Sanssouci Park.
• Seniors: Take a guided bus tour of Potsdam’s main attractions.
• Family: Enjoy a boat trip on the Havel River.
• With Disability: Sanssouci Park has accessible paths, but the historical palaces may have limited access. Check in advance.

• Luxury: A private tour of the palaces with exclusive access to certain areas.
• Adventure: Kayaking on the Havel River.
• Nature: Extensive hiking in the beautiful parklands surrounding the palaces.

Hotel Villa Monte Vino: A charming hotel located near Sanssouci Park. Book here.

The S-Bahn S7 line provides a direct and scenic connection from Berlin to Potsdam in about 40 minutes. Purchase a Berlin ABC ticket to cover your journey. To make the most of your day, start early. The grounds of Sanssouci Park are vast, and you’ll want plenty of time to explore. Consider purchasing a “sanssouci+” ticket, which allows entry to all Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg palaces in Potsdam on a single day. Book your palace tour times online in advance to avoid disappointment, as they can sell out quickly, especially during peak season.

Comfortable footwear is essential for a day of walking through palaces and expansive parks. Dress in layers, as the weather can change throughout the day. A light, waterproof jacket is a good idea, especially in spring and autumn. For a visit to the palaces, smart casual attire is appropriate. In the summer, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves for sun protection while exploring the beautiful gardens. A small backpack is useful for carrying water, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

The Dutch Quarter in Potsdam is filled with charming cafes and restaurants offering both German and international cuisine. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch. For a more traditional German meal, try one of the restaurants near the Brandenburg Gate in Potsdam (not to be confused with the one in Berlin). There are also several beer gardens within Sanssouci Park where you can enjoy a refreshing drink and a light snack amidst beautiful surroundings. For a special treat, consider dining at a restaurant with a view of the Havel River.

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Potsdam from Berlin is by taking the S-Bahn (S7 line), which runs frequently from major stations like Hauptbahnhof, Friedrichstraße, and Alexanderplatz. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. Alternatively, regional trains also connect Berlin and Potsdam. Once in Potsdam, the city center and the entrance to Sanssouci Park are within walking distance from the Potsdam Hauptbahnhof (main station). Trams and buses are also available for getting around Potsdam and reaching the different palaces and attractions within the park.

• Young Travelers: Explore the trendy Neustadt district with its street art and alternative vibe.
• Seniors: Enjoy a relaxing paddle-steamer cruise on the Elbe River.
• Family: Visit the Dresden Transport Museum for an interactive experience.
• With Disability: The reconstructed city center is largely accessible. The Frauenkirche has an elevator to the dome.

• Luxury: A private tour of the Green Vault with its priceless treasures.
• Adventure: Hiking in the nearby Saxon Switzerland National Park.
• Nature: A bike ride along the Elbe Cycle Route.

Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski Dresden: A luxurious hotel in a historic building, located in the heart of the old town. Book here.

Consider purchasing a Dresden City Card, which offers free travel on public transport and discounts on many museums and attractions. To fully appreciate the story of the Frauenkirche’s reconstruction, join one of the guided tours. Booking tickets for the Semperoper in advance is highly recommended if you wish to see a performance. The views from the top of the Frauenkirche’s dome are spectacular and well worth the climb. For a different perspective of the city, take a historic paddle steamer trip on the Elbe River.

For exploring Dresden’s historic old town, comfortable shoes are a must. The cobblestone streets can be uneven. Smart casual attire is suitable for most attractions. If you plan on attending a performance at the Semperoper, elegant evening wear is appropriate. In summer, light clothing, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended. In the cooler months, a warm jacket, scarf, and gloves are necessary. A waterproof jacket is always a good idea, as rain can be expected at any time of the year.

The area around the Frauenkirche offers a variety of restaurants, from traditional Saxon cuisine to international dishes. For a unique dining experience, head to the Neustadt district, known for its quirky bars and a wide range of culinary delights. Don’t miss trying a “Dresdner Christstollen,” a famous German Christmas fruit bread, which can often be found in bakeries year-round. For a fine dining experience, there are several excellent restaurants in the city center. Enjoying a coffee and a piece of cake in one of the traditional coffee houses is a must-do in Dresden.

Dresden is well-connected by train to other major German cities like Berlin and Leipzig. The journey from Berlin takes about two hours. The main train station, Dresden Hauptbahnhof, is located south of the city center. From the train station, you can easily walk to the historic old town or take a tram. The city has an excellent public transport system of trams and buses. A day ticket is a good option if you plan on using public transport frequently.

• Young Travelers: Go rock climbing with a certified guide.
• Seniors: Enjoy the views from the Bastei Bridge, which is easily accessible, and explore the fortress via a panoramic lift.
• Family: Take a historic Kirnitzschtal tramway ride through the valley.
• With Disability: The main viewing platform at the Bastei is accessible. Königstein Fortress has accessible routes.

• Luxury: A private guided hiking tour with a picnic lunch.
• Adventure: A challenging hike on one of the park’s many trails.
• Nature: Bird watching and photography in the pristine wilderness.

Panorama-Hotel Lilienstein: A hotel with stunning views of the Lilienstein mountain and the Elbe valley. Book here.

The S-Bahn S1 from Dresden takes you directly to the towns of Kurort Rathen or Königstein, which are gateways to the national park. The journey is scenic and takes about 30-45 minutes. Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as the trails can be steep and uneven. Pack plenty of water and some snacks, especially if you plan on a longer hike. Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changing conditions. For the best light and fewer crowds, try to visit the Bastei Bridge early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Proper hiking gear is essential for a day in Saxon Switzerland. Sturdy hiking boots are a must. Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing in layers. A waterproof and windproof jacket is highly recommended, as the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. A hat and sunglasses will protect you from the sun. In cooler months, add a fleece jacket, hat, gloves, and a scarf. A backpack to carry your essentials is also necessary.

There are several restaurants and beer gardens near the Bastei Bridge and in the town of Kurort Rathen. These offer traditional German food with stunning views. For a quick bite, you can find kiosks selling snacks and drinks. Packing a picnic is also a great option, allowing you to enjoy your meal amidst the beautiful scenery. In the town of Königstein, at the base of the fortress, you’ll find more dining options. Enjoy a hearty meal after a day of hiking and exploring.

The most convenient way to reach Saxon Switzerland National Park from Dresden is by taking the S-Bahn S1 train. To visit the Bastei Bridge, get off at “Kurort Rathen.” From there, you’ll need to take a small passenger ferry across the Elbe River and then hike up to the bridge. To visit Königstein Fortress, get off at “Königstein (Sächs Schw).” From the town, you can either hike up to the fortress or take a small shuttle bus. The train ride itself is very scenic, running alongside the Elbe River.

• Young Travelers: Explore the underground passages and beer cellars (Historischer Kunstbunker).
• Seniors: Take a guided tour of the Old Town to learn about its history at a comfortable pace.
• Family: Visit the Nuremberg Toy Museum, a delight for all ages.
• With Disability: The Documentation Center and Memorium Nuremberg Trials are accessible. The Old Town has some cobblestones, but many areas are manageable.

• Luxury: A private guided tour focusing on the city’s art and history.
• Adventure: A walking tour focusing on the city’s medieval fortifications.
• Nature: A walk along the Pegnitz River that flows through the city.

Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nuremberg: A historic hotel located in the city center, opposite the main train station. Book here.

Purchase a Nürnberg Card + Fürth to get free admission to many museums and attractions, as well as free travel on public transport. The Documentation Center and the Memorium Nuremberg Trials are emotionally heavy but essential for understanding the city’s history. Allow plenty of time for these visits. Book your tickets online in advance, especially for the Memorium Nuremberg Trials, as entry is often timed. The Old Town is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes. Don’t miss the daily “Männleinlaufen” (Little Men Running) clock show at the Frauenkirche in the Hauptmarkt at noon.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring Nuremberg’s castle and cobblestone streets. For visiting the historical sites, respectful and comfortable attire is recommended. The weather in Bavaria can be variable, so dressing in layers is always a good strategy. A light jacket and a small umbrella are useful additions to your daypack. In the evening, if you plan to dine in a more formal restaurant or attend a cultural event, smart casual clothing is appropriate.

Nuremberg is famous for its “Nürnberger Rostbratwürstchen,” small grilled sausages that are a must-try. You can find them at street stalls in the Hauptmarkt or in traditional restaurants. The Handwerkerhof, a small medieval village near the main train station, has several charming restaurants serving Franconian specialties. For a cozy atmosphere, explore the restaurants in the Weißgerbergasse, a street famous for its beautiful half-timbered houses. Nuremberg is also known for its gingerbread (“Lebkuchen”), which you can buy at many bakeries.

Nuremberg is a major railway hub and is easily accessible by high-speed ICE trains from other German cities like Dresden and Munich. The journey from Dresden takes about 4.5 hours. The main train station, Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof, is located just outside the Old Town. The city has an efficient public transport system of U-Bahn, trams, and buses. The Old Town is very walkable, and most of the main attractions are located within its walls.

• Young Travelers: Take the Night Watchman’s tour for an entertaining and historical evening walk.
• Seniors: Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the town.
• Family: Visit the German Christmas Museum, open year-round.
• With Disability: The town has cobblestones, which can be challenging. The main streets are generally manageable.

• Luxury: A stay in a historic hotel within the town walls.
• Adventure: Hiking in the Tauber Valley.
• Nature: A bike ride along the Tauber River.

Hotel Herrnschloesschen: A luxurious boutique hotel in a historic building in the heart of Rothenburg. Book here.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is best experienced in the early morning or late afternoon when the day-trippers have left. Consider staying overnight to fully soak in the magical atmosphere. The walk along the town walls is a must-do and offers fantastic photo opportunities. Try a “Schneeball” (snowball), a local pastry, but be warned, they are quite large and dry. The Night Watchman’s tour is highly recommended for a fun and informative evening activity. Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, as the town is very popular.

Comfortable shoes are absolutely essential for walking on the cobblestone streets of Rothenburg. Dress in layers, as the weather can be cool, especially in the mornings and evenings. A light jacket is a good idea even in summer. The town has a relaxed and casual atmosphere, so comfortable and practical clothing is perfectly acceptable. If you plan on hiking in the Tauber Valley, bring appropriate hiking gear.

Rothenburg has a wide range of restaurants, from cozy inns serving traditional Franconian food to more upscale dining options. Many restaurants are located in historic buildings, adding to the romantic atmosphere. Be sure to try some local wine from the Tauber Valley. For a casual meal, there are several bakeries and cafes offering light snacks and pastries. Enjoying a meal in a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the Tauber Valley is a memorable experience.

The most scenic way to get to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is by car, allowing you to enjoy the picturesque Romantic Road. If you are traveling by public transport, you can take a train from Nuremberg. The journey involves a few changes and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. The train station is located just outside the town walls, about a 10-15 minute walk from the center. Once in Rothenburg, the entire town is best explored on foot.

• Young Travelers: Join a bike tour of the city to cover more ground and meet other travelers.
• Seniors: Take a leisurely stroll through the Viktualienmarkt, a daily food market with a beer garden.
• Family: Visit the Deutsches Museum, one of the world’s oldest and largest science and technology museums.
• With Disability: The city center is largely accessible. The U-Bahn system has many accessible stations.

• Luxury: A private tour of the Nymphenburg Palace, the former summer residence of the Bavarian rulers.
• Adventure: Surfing on the Eisbach river wave in the English Garden (for experienced surfers).
• Nature: A hike in the nearby foothills of the Alps.

Bayerischer Hof: A legendary luxury hotel in the heart of Munich with multiple restaurants and a rooftop pool. Book here.

The Glockenspiel at Marienplatz chimes at 11 am, 12 pm, and 5 pm (in summer). Arrive a few minutes early to get a good spot. The English Garden is huge, so consider renting a bike to explore it fully. The Hofbräuhaus can be very crowded, especially in the evening. For a more local experience, try one of the many other beer gardens in the city. The Viktualienmarkt is a great place to sample local delicacies and soak up the Bavarian atmosphere. Public transport in Munich is excellent, so consider buying a day ticket or a CityTourCard.

Munich is a stylish city, so smart casual attire is always a good choice. Comfortable shoes are still a must for exploring. If you plan on visiting a beer garden, casual and comfortable clothing is perfectly fine. For an evening at the opera or a fine dining restaurant, you’ll want to dress up. In summer, light clothing is sufficient, but always have a light jacket for the evenings. In winter, a warm coat, hat, scarf, and gloves are essential.

Munich is a food lover’s paradise. For traditional Bavarian food, head to a beer hall or a “Wirtshaus.” Besides the Hofbräuhaus, there are many other excellent options like the Augustiner-Keller or the Paulaner am Nockherberg. The Viktualienmarkt is a great place for a casual lunch, with many stalls selling fresh produce, sausages, cheese, and more. For international cuisine, explore the neighborhoods of Schwabing and Glockenbachviertel. Don’t miss trying a “Weißwurst” breakfast, a Bavarian specialty.

Munich has a major international airport and is a central railway hub, making it easily accessible from all over Germany and Europe. High-speed ICE trains connect Munich with other major cities. The city has a comprehensive and efficient public transport system consisting of U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses. A single ticket system covers all modes of transport. The city center is very walkable, and many of the main attractions are located close to each other.

• Young Travelers: Hike up to the castle for some exercise and beautiful views.
• Seniors: Take the shuttle bus up to the castle to avoid the steep walk.
• Family: Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride up to the castle.
• With Disability: Neuschwanstein Castle has an elevator but must be requested in advance. The path to the castle is steep.

• Luxury: A private tour of the castle with a personal guide.
• Adventure: Paragliding in the Alps for breathtaking views of the castle.
• Nature: Hiking around the beautiful Alpsee lake.

AMERON Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa: A modern resort with stunning views of the Alpsee lake and the castles. Book here.

It is absolutely essential to book your Neuschwanstein Castle tickets online well in advance, as they sell out weeks or even months ahead, especially during peak season. You will be given a specific tour time. The walk from the ticket center to the castle is uphill and takes about 30-40 minutes, so allow plenty of time. The Marienbrücke can be very crowded, so be patient. For a less crowded experience, consider visiting in the off-season. The views of the castle from the trail leading to it are also spectacular.

Sturdy and comfortable walking shoes are a must. The walk up to the castle is steep. Dress in layers, as the weather in the Alps can change quickly. A waterproof jacket is a good idea, regardless of the season. Even in summer, it can be cool in the mountains. In winter, warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and a scarf, is essential.

There are several restaurants and cafes in the village of Hohenschwangau, at the base of the castles. These offer a range of options from quick snacks to full meals. There is also a cafe near Neuschwanstein Castle. For a more peaceful and scenic option, pack a picnic and enjoy it by the beautiful Alpsee lake. The restaurants can be crowded, especially around lunchtime, so consider eating at off-peak times.

The most common way to get to Neuschwanstein from Munich is by train to the town of Füssen. The journey takes about two hours. From Füssen, you take a short bus ride (bus 73 or 78) to the village of Hohenschwangau, where the ticket center and the castles are located. Alternatively, many tour companies offer day trips from Munich by bus, which can be a convenient option. If you have a car, the drive from Munich takes about two hours.

• Young Travelers: Grab a final pretzel and a coffee to go.
• Seniors: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe.
• Family: Buy some German toys or chocolates as souvenirs.
• With Disability: The city center and airport are well-equipped with accessible facilities.

• Luxury: A private transfer to the airport.
• Adventure: If time allows, a quick visit to the BMW Welt for car enthusiasts.
• Nature: A final walk through a park before heading to the airport.

Hilton Munich Airport: Conveniently located between Terminals 1 and 2, perfect for early departures. Book here.

Munich Airport is very efficient, but it’s still a good idea to arrive at least 2-3 hours before your flight. You can easily reach the airport from the city center via the S-Bahn (S1 and S8 lines). The journey takes about 45 minutes. If you have a lot of luggage, a taxi or a pre-booked airport transfer might be more convenient. If you have some time to spare, Munich Airport has excellent shopping and dining facilities. Remember to claim your VAT refund at the airport if you have made any significant purchases.

Wear comfortable clothing for your flight. It’s always a good idea to have a sweater or a light jacket handy, as airplanes can be cool. If you have some time for last-minute shopping, comfortable shoes are still recommended.

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel or at one of the many bakeries and cafes in Munich. The airport also has a wide variety of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants. You can even find a brewery at the airport, Airbräu, for one last taste of Bavarian beer.

The S-Bahn lines S1 and S8 connect the city center of Munich with the airport. They run frequently and are a reliable way to get to your flight. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available. If you are staying at an airport hotel, many offer a shuttle service.

Germany offers a surprising number of yoga and wellness retreats, particularly in scenic areas like the Bavarian Alps, the Black Forest, and the Baltic Sea coast. These retreats often combine yoga and meditation with hiking, spa treatments, and healthy, organic cuisine. They provide a perfect opportunity to unwind and reconnect with nature. When searching for a retreat, look for certified instructors and programs that align with your personal wellness goals. Many retreats cater to different levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular retreats during peak seasons. A wellness retreat can be a rejuvenating addition to your German itinerary.

Packing for Germany requires versatility. Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. The weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is the best strategy. A waterproof jacket is essential, regardless of the season. Pack a mix of casual and smart casual outfits. Germans tend to dress neatly, so you’ll feel more comfortable if you’re not too underdressed, especially in cities and restaurants. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and be environmentally friendly. A travel adapter (Type F) is necessary for your electronic devices. Also, pack any personal medications you may need, along with a basic first-aid kit. A small backpack is perfect for daily excursions.

Germany is a great shopping destination, offering everything from luxury brands to unique souvenirs. Major cities have large department stores (“Kaufhaus”) and bustling shopping streets. For luxury shopping, head to Kurfürstendamm in Berlin or Maximilianstraße in Munich. For unique, locally made goods, explore the smaller boutiques in neighborhoods like Kreuzberg in Berlin or the Glockenbachviertel in Munich. Remember that most shops are closed on Sundays. Look for “Made in Germany” labels for high-quality products like cuckoo clocks from the Black Forest, porcelain from Meissen, or Christmas ornaments. Non-EU residents are eligible for a VAT refund on purchases over a certain amount, so remember to ask for the necessary forms when you shop.