Make the most of your vacation and don’t miss out on a minute of the fun by combining our “Best of Germany” and “Bavarian Highlights” tours. Embark on an unforgettable journey from Berlin to Munich, blending Germany's rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes. Starting in Berlin, explore iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall Memorial, before continuing to Dresden, renowned for its baroque beauty, including the Zwinger Palace and Frauenkirche. In Weimar, immerse yourself in the artistic legacies of Goethe, Schiller, and the Bauhaus movement. The route continues to Munich, where you'll enjoy three overnight stays in the city’s heart, ensuring a relaxing start to the Bavarian portion of the trip. From Munich, travel to Salzburg for another three-night stay, savoring leisurely experiences amid nearby attractions. Conclude the journey with an overnight stay in the stunning alpine town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, nestled in the Bavarian Alps. This tour captures the best of Germany and Bavaria, from must-see landmarks and hidden gems to charming towns and breathtaking landscapes, offering a rich cultural experience for all travelers.

Highlights: WWII Berlin, Cold War Berlin & Berlin Wall, Leipzig, Colzitz Castle, Dresden Frauenkirche, Bastei Bridge, Elbsandstone Mountains National Park, Hidden “Erzgebirge” Region home to Germany’s Christmas tradtions, Historic Mine, Frohnauer Hammer, Weimar (Home of Goethe, Schiller, and The Bauhaus School of Design), Lurther & The Wartburg, WWII Nuremberg, Freising & The World’ Oldest Brewery. Lake Chiemsee Sound of Music Salzburg, Austrian Lake District, Koenigssee, Eagle’s Nest, Eibsee, Garmisch-Pa., Neuschwanstein Castle & Alternatives for Returners, Munich & The Hofbräuhaus

Overnights:  Berlin (3 nights) - Dresden (3 nights) - Weimar (2 nights) - Munich (3 nights) - Salzburg (3 nights) - Garmisch-Partenkirchen (4 nights) -

Price: €6,595/person* - based off a double occupancy room

Day 1 - Arrival Day and Welcome Reception - Tuesday, July 1st

Herzlich Willkommen and Welcome to the German capital of Berlin. Upon arriving at the city’s sleek and modern new airport, we will be waiting to greet you before making our way to our accomodations in the vibrant district of Berlin Mitte; , the city's cultural and historical heart. After having time to settle in and enjoy the first glimpses of iconic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie, the day will culminate with a warm welcome dinner reception as we toast to the beginning of an unforgettable experience and memories to come.

Overnight: Berllin Mitte

Day 2 - Berlin Through the Years - Wednesday, July 2nd

Discover Berlin and the dramatic changes it has undergone over the years. From WWII to the Cold War and into the modern day, we’ll explore the pivotal events that have shaped the city we see today. During our outing, we’ll visit Berlin’s most iconic sites, including the remnants of the Berlin Wall and the colorful East Side Gallery, the historic Brandenburg Gate, the solemn Holocaust Memorial, and the political heart of the nation at the Reichstag. This tour encapsulates Berlin's transformation from a divided past to a unified future, offering the perfect introduction to this remarkable city!

Overnight: Berllin Mitte

Day 3 - Potsdam & The Cecilienhof - Thursday, July 3rd

A short journey takes us from Berlin to the charming city of Potsdam, renowned for its rich history and stunning palaces. Our day begins with a visit to the historic Cecilienhof Palace, the site of the 1945 Potsdam Conference, where world leaders made pivotal decisions that shaped post-WWII Europe. After enjoying lunch at a traditional Prussian beer hall, we'll visit the magnificent Sanssouci Palace and its beautifully manicured gardens. Once the summer residence of Frederick the Great, Sanssouci exemplifies the elegance of 18th-century Prussian architecture and offers a tranquil escape into royal opulence.

Overnight: Berlin, Mitte

Day 4 - Leipzig & Colditz Castle - Friday, July 4th

After a 3-night stay in Berlin, we head south traveling through Saxony to the beautiful city of Dresden. Along the way, we’ll make several enriching stops, beginning with Colditz Castle, a fortress towering over the town below. Known for its fascinating history as a high-security POW camp during World War II, Colditz is famous for the daring escape attempts made by Allied prisoners. Next, we’ll visit the vibrant city of Leipzig, celebrated for its musical heritage and pivotal role in the Peaceful Revolution that helped bring down the Berlin Wall. As we continue toward Dresden, we’ll stop at the imposing Battle of Nations Monument, just outside Leipzig, commemerating the 1813 battle where coalition forces defeated Napoleon. Standing over 90 meters tall, the monument offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Overnight: Dresden, Hilton Hotel - Frauenkirche

Day 5 - Dresden City Tour - Saturday, July 5th

Discover Dresden, a city of resilience and Baroque beauty, with a day rich in architectural splendor and riverside charm. Starting from your hotel near the iconic Frauenkirche, set out on a guided walking tour to uncover the city's fascinating history and landmarks. In the afternoon, enjoy time at your leisure exploring the grand Zwinger Palace, known for its art collections and ornate gardens, or the nearby Royal Palace and Dresden Cathedral. Conclude the day with a serene stroll along Brühl’s Terrace or perhaps a scenic boat ride on the Elbe River.

Overnight: Dresden, Hilton Hotel - Frauenkirche

Day 6 - Saxon Switzerland National Park & The Bastei Bridge - Sunday, July 6th

Enjoy a relaxed start to the day before we set off on a scenic Sunday drive to the breathtaking landscapes of Saxon Switzerland National Park. In the heart of the remote Elbsandstone Mountains, we'll encounter sweeping views of the Elbe River and dramatic sandstone formations. Nestled among lush forests and striking rock formations lies the picturesque Bastei Bridge, an iconic site that has inspired many of Germany’s renowned Romantic painters, including Caspar David Friedrich, whose masterpiece Wanderer above the Sea of Fog captures the essence of this sublime scenery. In the afternoon, we return to Dresden before a final evening on the shores of the Elbe River.

Overnight: Dresden, Hilton Hotel - Frauenkirche

Day 7 - Erzgebirge Ore Mountains & Chrsitmas Traditions - Monday, July 7th

Today, we’ll venture off the beaten path to discover a region often overlooked by foreign travelers as we journey from Dresden to Weimar for what is sure to be a memorable day. Traveling through the scenic Erzgebirge Ore Mountains, we’ll stop in the charming town of **Annaberg-Buchholz**. Known for its rich mining heritage and Christmas traditions, Annaberg-Buchholz offers a fascinating look into the region’s storied past and unique customs. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer from our coach to a small gauge train to visit a historic silver mine, once used for uranium extraction during the Cold War. Next, we’ll explore the **Frohnauer Hammer**, a remarkable 17th-century blacksmith forge and hammer mill, now a museum, showcasing traditional metalworking techniques that shaped the region’s craft industry for centuries. Following lunch, we’ll wander through town to discover the Erzgebirge’s enchanting Christmas traditions, famous for handcrafted wooden ornaments, nutcrackers, and pyramid candle holders—beloved symbols of German holiday decor worldwide. After a full day of exploration, we’ll continue to Weimar, arriving in time for a relaxing evening in this historic city.

Overnight: Weimar, Hotel Dorint

Day 8 - Weimar “The City of Culture” - Tuesday, July 8th

Learn more about the charming town of Weimar, renowned as the cradle of German intellectual and artistic movements. During this outing, our local guide will share the significant role Weimar played in German history while introducing us to some of its most notable citizens. We’ll stroll past the picturesque Marktplatz, surrounded by historic buildings like the Town Hall and Lucas Cranach House, before exploring the legacies of literary giants Goethe and Schiller at their respective homes. As a center of the Enlightenment, Weimar was also home to thinkers like Herder and Nietzsche, whose revolutionary ideas shaped modern philosophy. In the afternoon, discover one of the town’s insightful museums, including the Duchess Anna Amalia Library, showcasing rococo architecture and rare books; the Bauhaus Museum, dedicated to the influential art school that pioneered modern design; or the Weimar Republic Museum, which offers a compelling exploration of Germany's democratic experiment from 1919 to 1933. Conclude the day with a stroll through the serene Park an der Ilm, once frequented by Goethe and located directly in front of our comfortable hotel accommodations.

Overnight: Weimar, Hotel Dorint

Day 9 - The Wartburg & Erfurt - Wednesday, July 9th

The Wartburg Castle, located just outside Eisenach, is one of Germany's most influential fortresses, dating back to 1067 and remarkably preserving 70 percent of its original structure. Its true significance lies in the events that occurred within its walls, notably when Martin Luther, known as "Junker Jörg," translated the New Testament from Greek to German in just 12 weeks—a pivotal moment in the Reformation that made the Word of God accessible to the common man and laid the foundation for a standardized German language. After visiting the castle, we'll head to Erfurt, where our guide will lead us on a walking tour of the city where Luther studied and dedicated his life to God. Following the tour, take time to explore Erfurt at your leisure, admiring its stunning domes and cathedrals, and don't miss the picturesque Kramer Bridge with its charming half-timbered homes.

Overnight: Weimar, Hotel Dorint

Day 10 - Historic Nuremberg - Thursday, July 10th

As we journey from Weimar to Munich, we’ll make a stop in Nuremberg to discover the city’s rich history and delightful architecture, featuring traditional half-timbered homes. Our first visit will be to the **Zeppelin Fields Documentation Center**, where we’ll delve into the historical context of the Nazi Party rallies and their impact on German society. Next, we’ll explore the **Palace of Justice**, the site of the famous Nuremberg Trials, where key figures from the Nazi regime were prosecuted for war crimes. Our visit concludes with a stroll through Nuremberg's historic **Old Town**, surrounded by medieval architecture, including the stunning Nuremberg Castle and the picturesque **Beautiful Fountain** in the main market square. Afterward, a short drive south will take us to Munich, where our central accommodations await.

Overnight: Munich, Hotel Blauer Bock

Day 11 - Munich City Tour & Best of Geramy Farwell Dinner - Friday, July 11th

As the Best of Germany ttour gradually concludes, we’ll savor the vibrant atmosphere of Munich with a leisurely morning exploring the city at your own pace. The day begins with a short guided tour around the charming Old Town, where we’ll admire the stunning architecture of Marienplatz and the impressive Glockenspiel followed by a stroll through the beautiful Englischer Garten, one of the largest urban parks in the world. Here, we’ll discover serene lakes and watch surfers riding the waves on the Eisbach River. Following an afternoon of free time, we come together to celebrate our farewell dinner reception at a traditional Bavarian beer hall, where we’ll enjoy hearty bavarian cuisine, raise our steins reflecting on the unforgettable memories shared over the course of what is sure to be a great journey.

Overnight: Munich, Hotel Blauer Bock

Day 12 - Dachau and WWII Munich - Saturday, July 12th

Learn about the tragic history of one of Nazi Germany's first concentration camps as we remember the terror inflicted during Nazi rule. This sobering experience offers deep insights into the atrocities of World War II and the resilience of the human spirit. Afterward, we continue to Munich for a historical tour of the city, focusing on its pivotal role during WWII. We visit landmarks such as Königsplatz, where Nazi rallies were held, and Odeonsplatz, the site where Hitler’s first attempt to seize power was thwarted. A visit to the recently completed Nazi Documentation Center provides further understanding of the city's connection to the rise and fall of the Third Reich.

Overnight: Munich, Hotel Blauer Bock

Day 13 - Herrenchiemsee Palace - Sunday, July 13th

Traveling from Munich to Salzburg through the scenic Bavarian countryside, we arrive at the picturesque shores of Bavaria’s largest lake, Chiemsee. Here, we board a classic ferry to Herreninsel, the island where King Ludwig II’s Herrenchiemsee Palace is nestled. This opulent palace, modeled after Versailles, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Ludwig’s ambitious vision and is one of three castles he commissioned. After a leisurely exploration of the palace and its stunning gardens, we continue our journey to Salzburg, crossing into Austria as the majestic Alpine landscapes unfold around us. Arriving in Salzburg by late afternoon, we settle in for an enchanting evening in this historic city, surrounded by its baroque architecture and the charm of Mozart’s hometown.

Overnight: Salzburg, Radisson Blu Old Town Hotel

Day 14 - Salzburg History & Sound of Music - Monday, July 14th

Our first day in Salzburg’s begins with a walking tour introduction to the enchanting Old Town, where centuries of history and culture blend seamlessly with iconic moments from *The Sound of Music*. As we wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, we’ll discover architectural gems like the Salzburg Cathedral and the Residenzplatz, where the grand fountain famously appeared in Maria's joyful “I Have Confidence” scene. Explore the picturesque Mirabell Gardens, where the Von Trapp children sang “Do-Re-Mi” on the Pegasus Fountain steps, all while enjoying the baroque beauty of the surroundings. We’ll also visit St. Peter’s Abbey, one of the oldest monasteries in Europe, and its cemetery, which inspired the escape scene from the movie. Along the way, we’ll learn about Salzburg’s rich heritage, its ties to Mozart, and how this charming city became the timeless backdrop to one of Hollywood’s most beloved musicals. The tour offers a perfect blend of history and film, bringing Salzburg’s Old Town to life in a uniquely memorable way.

Overnight: Salzburg, Radisson Blu Old Town Hotel

Day 15 - Austrian Lake District - Tuesday, July 15th

Get your camera’s ready as we make our way from Salzburg to the beatuiful Austrian Lake District with truely breathtaking views in a region of serene beauty and crystal-clear lakes. Our journey takes us through charming towns like St. Gilgen and St. Wolfgang, nestled on the shores of shimmering lakes such as Wolfgangsee and Mondsee. This idyllic day trip provides the perfect blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

Overnight: Salzburg, Radisson Blu Old Town Hotel

Day 16 - The Eagle’s Nest & Königssee - Wednesday, July 16th

Today we say *Auf Wiedersehen* to Salzburg and make our way to beautiful Garmisch-Partenkirchen, traveling through the heart of the Bavarian Alps. Just a stone's throw away from Salzburg awaits our first stop at the historic Eagle's Nest and NS Documentation Center. Perched atop Kehlstein Mountain, the Eagle’s Nest offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, while the Documentation Center provides insightful exhibitions on the dark history of Nazi Germany and Adolf Hitler's retreat here.

Sitting below the Eagle’s Nest lies the emerald-green waters of Königssee; our second destination of the ay. Upon arrival, we embark on a leisurely boat ride to St. Bartholomew’s Church, nestled along the shores of one of Germany's most pristine alpine lakes. During our journey, our captain might graciously treat us to a brief bugle concert, playing to the mountains as his melodies echo through the valleys, filling the mountain air with enchanting music. From Lake Koenigsse, we journey deeper into Berchtesgaden National Park, stopping in the charming village of Ramsau, known for its picturesque parish church and iconic views of the Watzmann mountains, before continue our scenic drive through the breathtaking Alpine landscapes enroute to Garmisch-Partenkrichen where the day concludes.

Overnight: Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Rheinischer Hof

Day 17 - Garmisch Highlights - Thursday, July 17th

Today we’ll discover the beauty of Garmisch-Partenkirchen as we enjoy stops at alpine lakes, intriguing freseco facades, and alpine huts. Our outing begins with a visit to the stunning Eibsee, a crystal-clear lake at the foot of the Zugspitze. For those seeking adventure, there’s the option to take the cable car up to the Zugspitze’s summit, offering breathtaking views from Germany’s highest peak. Meanwhile, others can stay onboard for a scenic journey through the Alpine landscapes surrounding Garmisch, enjoying a leisurely lunch at a rustic alpine hut, where we savor traditional Bavarian cuisine amid serene mountain surroundings. The tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and local culture.

Overnight: Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Rheinischer Hof

Day 18 - Neuschwanstein Castle - Friday, July 18th

Visit the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle tucked away in the picturesque Bavarian countryside, surrounded by majestic Alpine peaks. Upon arrival, guests have the option to tour the castle, exploring its lavish interiors and hearing stories of King Ludwig II’s eccentric reign. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, there’s the alternative to skip the castle tour and instead embark on a shuttle ride to the charming Bleckenau Berggasthaus. Nestled in a peaceful mountain valley, this rustic alpine hut offers a perfect spot to relax and enjoy local cuisine while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and peaks.

Overnight: Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Rheinischer Hof

Day 19 - Mittenwald & The Bavarian Countryside - Saturday, July 19th

Enjoy a relaxing Satruday in the Werdenfelerland as we embark on a short outing from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to the neighboring village of Mittenwald just a stone’s throw away. Renowned for its violin-making tradition and stunning alpine backdrop, we’ll have an opportunity to learn more about the towns rich history of handcrafted instruments that has defined it for centuries. Along the way, we’ll make a few additional casual stops at lesser-known sights off the beaten path before enjoying lunch in a scenic alpine setting amidst breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Following our outing, spend the afternoon as you please before the group gathers together one last time celebrating memories made at the Farewell Dinner Reception.

Overnight: Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Rheinischer Hof

Day 20 - Airport Transfer - Sunday, July 20th

All good things must come to an end, and our **Bavarian Highlights** tour concludes here with a private transfer to the nearby Munich International Airport. Guests extending their stay with the **Bavarian Highlights Tour** will embark on a journey to Regensburg, traveling through the scenic Hallertau region, home to the world’s largest hop producers.

Transfer to Munich International Airport

Both of our small group summer tours have been planned to flow smoothly from one tour to the next making it possible to combine tours extending your stay. Combining tour packages offers a great value and top-notch travel experience that you won't want to miss. Consider that the flight costs remain the same regardless of how long you stay, why not stay a little longer?

Additionally, by combining tours, you'll benefit from our “grand tour discount”, reducing the total tour price by nearly 20% significantly decreases your daily cost. Don’t miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture that Germany has to offer—extend your journey and create unforgettable memories to last a lifetime!