Overview
Experience Germany’s medieval charms and stunning scenery on a journey through towns of half-timbered houses and the vineyards of the Rhine Valley, on hiking excursions in the Black Forest, and up into the spectacular alpine setting of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The region’s rich culinary traditions—and fabulous beer and wine—make this tour through German history a truly royal experience.
Days: 14
Best time to visit: May-October
Ideal for: Couples, Families
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive in Frankfurt
Arrive in the morning, settle into your hotel, and then head for the Old Town, or Aldstadt, which has been carefully restored after sustaining heavy damage in WWII. Visit the Römer, exhibiting portraits of German emperors; Goethe-Haus, former home to one of the country’s most famous writers; and the 19th-century villa, Liebieghaus, which houses an impressive array of sculptures. Riverside parks, elegant eateries, and classic beer gardens make this the perfect place to start your adventure.
Day 2 – Rüdesheim & the Rhine Valley
Today, drive southwest out of Frankfurt to the Rhine Valley and the charming town of Rüdesheim. The half-timbered and gabled medieval houses, rustic restaurants, and cobbled streets will transport you through the ages. Explore the wine cellars and taverns lining the Weingass, or Wine Alley, and for excellent views over Riesling country and a taste of history, visit the 1,000-year-old Bromserburg Castle.
Day 3 – Rhine River Cruise
In the morning, make your way down to the river and embark on a Rhine River Cruise, which will take you sailing through the rolling hills, vineyards, and riverside villages of the valley. Hop off to explore family-run wine cellars, beer gardens, and traditional restaurants. Along the way, a series of impressive fortresses preside over the river, and in St. Goar the ruins of Burg Rheinfels has tumbled into the swirling water below the towering Lorelei Rock—the short hike to the top offers stunning views. Float back to Rüdesheim for the night.
Day 4 – Heidelberg Castle & the Black Forest
Today you depart Rüdesheim for the Black Forest, about 3 hours’ drive to the south, breaking up the trip with a stop in Heidelberg on the Neckar River. Take the mountain railway to the majestic Heidelberg Castle, a crumbling testament to the greatness of Renaissance architecture. Its red sandstone walls stand amidst terraced gardens and provide great views over the city. Take a stroll through Old Town before continuing the drive to your traditional-style hotel in the Black Forest.
Day 5 – Outdoors in the Black Forest
Spend today exploring the Black Forest, a landscape crisscrossed with hiking trails, dotted with lakes, and brimming with history. Enjoy a relaxing morning at hot springs first discovered by the Romans, or visit to the university town of Freiburg in the heart of the Baden wine region, founded in the 12th century. For mountain top views and a glimpse of grandeur, head to the mountaintop perch of Hohenzollern Castle.
Day 6 – Travel to Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Leave the Black Forest behind and drive southeast to the alpine resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, an upscale yet historical region in the shadow of Germany’s highest peak. Arriving in the early afternoon, spend the rest of the day exploring the region, renowned for its hiking trails and scenic views. Stroll the cobbled streets of Partenkirchen, browse the shops of Garmisch, or go for a hike around nearby Partnach Gorge.
Day 7 – The Castle of King Ludwig II
Today you will be picked up at your hotel for a full-day private excursion to the castle of Neuschwanstein, which sits on a hilltop perch surrounded by mountains and forest. Built by the legendary King Ludwig II, this castle is wreathed in mystery and majesty. After exploring the castle, head to Oberammergau for lunch and the chance to browse its excellent shops. Returning to Garmisch, tour the elegant grounds and halls of Ettal Monastery.
Day 8 – Hiking Around Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Take today to explore this enchanting landscape of pristine lakes, serene forests, and stunning alpine views. Head over to Lake Eibsee and take the tram to the summit of Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest peak, and enjoy lunch at the chalet before you descend. Or opt for a day of hiking up Wank Mountain, where you will also find delicious Bavarian cuisine and striking views.
Day 9 – Travel to Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber
Today’s drive takes you northward about 3 ½ hours to the well-preserved medieval town of Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber, the Red Fortress above the Tauber. This evening, join the Night Watchman on their informative—and entertaining—rounds through the town’s dark alleys and squares as they regale you with stories of life in the Middle Ages.
Day 10 – Explore the History of Rothenburg
Surrounded by miles of ancient walls, which offer great views of the countryside, you will want a full day to explore the main sites, cobbled streets, and small squares of Rothenburg. Start your tour with the 13th-century Town Hall, or Rathaus, at the heart of town heart. Half-timbered houses, ancient churches, several lovely parks and gardens, and quality museums make for an enchanting day around town.
Day 11 – Travel to Berlin
Check out of your hotel in Rothenburg and drive north to Berlin—consider stopping at Weimar and Buchenwald for an afternoon of art and history. Drop off your rental car when you arrive in Berlin and enjoy exploring the city’s forested parks and cultural landmarks by foot and public transit. With a growing reputation for its food and arts scene, Berlin is a fast-paced yet laid-back city that’s brimming with history.
Day 12 – Highlights of Berlin
Enjoy a private, half-day guided tour around the city, with a focus on history and stories from the last century ranging from the Third Reich through Reunification. From The Reichstag to Brandenburg Gate, the Holocaust Memorial to the Gendarmenmarkt—a beautiful and expansive square at the heart of Berlin—this tour will highlight the best of Berlin. In the afternoon, explore UNESCO-listed Museum Island or the gardens of Charlottenburg Palace.
Day 13 – Palaces of Potsdam
Begin today with your expert guide and private driver on a full-day tour of Potsdam. Spend the day delving into the history of Prussian royalty in an array of majestic palaces and gardens, touring historic city gates, and the massive Baroque Neues Palais. Most prominent of all is Sanssouci, a summer palace built by King Frederick the Great, who shaped 18th-century Europe with his military campaigns and innovations.
Day 14 – Depart from Berlin
This morning you will have a private transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Remarkable Journeys has partnered with Lost World Adventures to create this journey. We partnered with Lost World due to their well-mannered relationships with tour guides, hotellers, airlines, and ground management services in the region. In our opinion, they offer the best value and experience in the region.
What’s next?
Whether this itinerary is exactly what you are looking for or isn’t even close…
Meet with a Consultant
The first step is to call or email us with your desired travel dates, the number of people in your group, your price range, and whatever other information you want to share to get us started. One of our consultants will then reach out to you to set-up an in-person meeting or phone consultation.
Keep on Looking
Together we can discuss your travel options, customize your trip and narrow in on your ideal journey. Once we know exactly what you want, we will send you a detailed-itinerary with hotel options, activities, transportation logistics and a total trip price.
Get a Detailed Itinerary
With your seal of approval, we’ll book your Remarkable Journey. From there, you can sit back and relax while we arrange all of the services, prepare the final documents and present you your trip before you go.