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7 Day Germany Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 7 day Germany tour with TourRadar. Choose from 217 trips with 344 customer reviews, that range from 4 up to 7 days.

217 Germany 7 day tour packages with 344 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Germany in a week - Covering Frankfurt and Munich

• In-depth Cultural

Amsterdam, Berlin and Prague

The city tours in Amsterdam Berlin and Prague were all led by knowledgeable and pleasant guides. They knew the history of the cities and were open to our questions

• Self-Guided Cycling

Lake Chiemsee - Lake Koenigssee

Main River BikeTour | Self-Guided | Wurzburg to Frankfurt

Mecklenburg Lake District Guided Bike Tour of Lakes, Castles and Idyllic Villages

Customized Germany Train Trip with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Magical Bavaria

Small tour group with an exceptionally knowledgeable guide. He knew the best places to stop for food/beer and navigated us through any queues! Such beautiful places to explore (Rothenburg & Residenz Wurzburg were a particular highlight... we would never have visited if travelling alone) Hotels were of a high quality... particularly loved the hotel in Nuremberg (facilities & breakfast were awesome) Location of all hotels were perfect. All airport transfers were on time and very professional. Tour transport was very comfortable- Mercedes Bus. We would definitely book with Indus Travel again as they responded quickly to all queries. Miller were their local supplier in Germany we can highly recommend them - a very professional service.

• Wine tasting

Rhine & Vines with Charm

• Hiking & Trekking
• Self Guided Walking Holidays

Altmühltal-Panorama Path

From Hamburg to Berlin: Discover the Medieval Charms of Hanseatic Cities

• Coach / Bus

German Christmas Markets (7 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Christmas on the Elbe (port-to-port cruise)

Moselle Bike Path

Flusskreuzfahrt zur Saarschleife

Munich Lakes 7/6

What people love about 7 day germany tours.

The tour was good. The hotels were great and the breakfasts were plentiful. The bus driver was very safe and helpful with bags. The guides were of varying satisfaction. I was disappointed that the itinerary stated key sights we would visit but we didn’t actually go inside and free time didn’t allow for all the visits I wanted to do and we didn’t see everything on the itinerary. It was a good taster trip. I see much more on my own.

Small tour group with an exceptionally knowledgeable guide. He knew the best places to stop for food/beer and navigated us through any queues! Such beautiful places to explore (Rothenburg & Residenz Wurzburg were a particular highlight... we would never have visited if travelling alone) Hotels were of a high quality... particularly loved the hotel in Nuremberg (facilities & breakfast were awesome) Location of all hotels were perfect. All airport transfers were on time and very professional. Tour transport was very comfortable- Mercedes Bus. We would definitely book with Indus Travel again as they responded quickly to all queries. Miller were their local supplier in Germany we can highly recommend them - a very professional service.

Regions in Germany

• Moselle (20)
• Bavaria (61)
• Rhine Valley (36)
• Romantic Road (6)
• Western Austria (5)
• Lake Constance (5)

Other Regions in Germany

• Bavaria 10 day Tours (70)
• Bavaria 7 day Tours (65)
• Romantic Road 10 day Tours (11)
• Bavaria 2 week Tours (8)
• Romantic Road 7 day Tours (8)
• Northern Germany 3 week Tours (8)
• Lake Constance 7 day Tours (6)
• Germany Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day Germany Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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• Travel Tips

The Perfect 7-Day Germany Itinerary

Germany is a country full of history, Medieval cities, amazing food and wine, and cultural traditions that you can join in, like Oktoberfest. Yet not many U.S. travelers spend a lot of time exploring this country – choosing to go to France or Italy instead. We want to change that and help you see how exciting Germany can be.

It can be difficult to decide where to start and where to go when visiting a country for the first time, so we’ve done the hard work for you and planned a full 7-day Germany itinerary, beginning in the thriving tourist hotspot of Hamburg and ending in the equally popular city of Munich. 

With just 7 days to explore this vast country, you will only be able to skim the surface, but you’ll be able to see and enjoy famous landmarks and amazing things that you probably didn’t even know were here. Like some of the places on this list of beautiful sights to see in Germany.

We’ve also listed some tips for your trip to Germany below the itinerary itself, so be sure to read until the end for some important advice. 

Planning your trip to Germany?

• Book a  transfer from the airport  to the city center with  Welcome Pickups .
• Rent a car  from the airport through  Discover Cars .

Best Tours and Experiences in Germany:

• Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace Day Tour from Munich – Embark on a day trip from Munich to witness Neuschwanstein and Linderhof’s magical fairy tale castles.
• Rhine Valley Trip from Frankfurt, including Rhine River Cruise – Embark on a romantic Rhine Valley tour from Frankfurt, where you’ll sail along the Rhine River on a traditional steamer, passing by vineyards, medieval towns, and castles.
• Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site Tour from Munich by Train – Explore the history of the Holocaust on a half-day tour from Munich to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site.

Visiting other destinations in Germany? Check out our guide to traveling in Germany that includes information on many popular destinations like Berlin and Munich , plus Oktoberfest in Munich . Going outside of Germany? Here’s our Europe travel guide .

Table of Contents

Where to Start & What to See

Many tourist guides and travel blogs will recommend beginning your visit to Germany either in Hamburg Munich or Berlin, but in the interest of cutting travel time as short as possible during your trip, we suggest starting in Hamburg. 

Hamburg is located on the River Elbe and is one of Germany’s federated states. Since Hamburg is in the northern region of Germany, it’s easy to work your way down through the other central and southern locations in the itinerary from there, and it’s only just over 2 hours from Berlin by train.

Stops On the Itinerary

• Hamburg – Sitting on the River Elbe is the second largest city in Germany, Hamburg. It is the biggest harbor city in Germany. It’s also a beautiful city to tour because two-thirds of the land is covered with parks, trees and lakes.
• Berlin – As the Capitol of Germany, Berlin is rich in culture, architecture and nightlife. The city is covered with parks, rivers, greenery and bridges. Partake in a walking tour to get the full effect of this historic German city.
• Dresden – Dresden is the largest metropolitan area in Germany. The city thrives on manufacturing, transportation, and culture. The high tech items are what drive their economy and occupy their jobs. It is also a place of art and inspiration.
• Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber – You don’t want to miss this cute town in Bavaria that is just oozing with charm. It’s a Medieval walled city with beautiful colored wooden houses.
• Neuschwanstein – Everyone knows this amazing castle, but to see it in person is an experience you won’t forget.
• Munich – Munich is a southern city in Germany that is located near the Alps. Best known for hosting the annual Oktoberfest Beer Festival, Munich is also a city filled with cultural activities. This is a great cultural center in Germany with opera, theatre, ballet, museums, and galleries. In Munich, you will find also the factory of the sports car BMW.

How to Get Around

Driving is very easy in Germany, as is the train system. However, you can’t easily reach every place on our itinerary by train. In places, such as between Rothenburg and Neuschwanstein, the train requires a minimum of three changes and takes over four hours.

It’s best to rent a car so you can get around to each place without having to deal with train times and tickets.

If you prefer to use the train only, then I would modify the itinerary to stay in only the bigger cities, which would be Hamburg, Berlin, Dresden, and Munich, with a side journey to Neuschwanstein from Munich .

• Hamburg to Berlin: 3:20 by car; 1:45 via train
• Berlin to Dresden: 2:10 by car; 2:15 via train
• Dresden to Rothenburg: 4 hours by car; 7:45 via train
• Rothenburg to Neuschwanstein: 2:30 by car; 6 hours with transfers

When to Visit Germany

There are reasons why you might want to visit Germany in each season. For instance, the popular Oktoberfest celebration is in September, as is the wine harvest, which is a great time to visit the wineries.

In the winter there are Christmas markets taking place in cute towns all over Germany, especially in Rothenburg. Spring is a great time to go for fewer crowds, better prices, and an abundance of spring flowers.

You might also be interested in planning a trip during the Hamburg Dom , which takes place three times per year. It’s Northern Germany’s biggest public festival. Expect it to be on in November, April, and August.

7 Days In Germany

Day 1: hamburg.

If you’re lucky enough to visit during Hamburg Dom, join in the classic funfair rides, sample traditional German food , and just take in the culture.

• Two fun areas to visit are the Speicherstadt (city of Warehouses), and the surrounding HafenCity, where you’ll find many of the city’s most-visited tourist attractions. Just walk around to see the changing shape of the waterfront and the now protected World Heritage Site.
• The newly opened Elbphilharmonie  is an interesting building to check out and to visit if you want to catch a performance by the Orchestra. It’s Hamburg’s tallest inhabited building.
• Museums – There are four museums you should definitely check out – the Kunsthalle (one of the largest art museums in the country), the International Maritime Museum, and Hamburg’s Miniatur Wunderland , the perfect attraction for anyone interested in trains or air travel. The Chocoversum , Hamburg’s Chocolate Museum, is where you can sample some of Germany’s finest chocolate and even customize your own chocolate bar. 
• Another area to explore are the Inner Alster (Binnenalster) and Outer Alster (Aussenalster), two artificial lakes around which you’ll find a tree-lined park with lots of space for walking, jogging, or sitting at a café.

Where to Stay in Hamburg

Altstadt, the historic center of the city, is definitely the best area to stay in Hamburg for tourists because it’s near everything you’ll want to see, or a quick walk or train ride.

Our recommended hotels are:

• Park Hyatt Hamburg
• Grand Elysee Hamburg
• Steigenberger Hotel Hamburg

Where to Eat in Hamburg

Hamburg’s signature dishes are Franzbrötchen (a French roll), Currywurst, Labskaus (a beetroot seafarer’s stew), and Rote Grütze (a red-berry dessert).

Some restaurants we like going to in Hamburg are:

• Kartoffel Keller  for great German food
• Otto’s Burger – best burgers in town, so good!
• Haerlin – two Michelin star restaurant for fine dining
• Alt Helgoländer Fischerstube – high-quality fish restaurant right on the waterfront

Tours to Try:

• Hamburg Reeperbahn Small-Group Walking Tour
• Guided Hamburg City Bike Tour
• Hamburg Small-Group Sunset Sailing Cruise on Lake Alster

Day 2: Berlin

You’ll be spending your second day in Germany in the capital city of Berlin. There is, of course, plenty to see and do in this city, so you’ll want to get an early start from Hamburg. With so much to see you may want to come back and visit again. This 3-day Berlin itinerary will help you out.

One of my favorite ways to see many of the top sights in Berlin is on a walking tour. This half-day walking tour is only $20 and takes you around to all the main sights included in the list below. You won’t go into anything, but you’ll get an idea of where and what they are so you can go back.

• Berlin in obviously well-known for its checkered past, which can’t be ignored while visiting. We recommend learning about all aspects of German history, starting with the Holocaust Memorial and the Topography of Terror museum.
• Next to that is the Berlin Wall , which is both a painful reminder of the Cold War and, since 1990, a poignant open-air art gallery.
• Brandenburg Gate is the only historical city gate remaining in Berlin, and it has come to symbolize the reunification of Germany.
• Museum Island is home to five great museums: Pergamon Museum, Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie , and Bode Museum.
• Climb the Berlin TV Tower and dine at the revolving restaurant sphere or the Reichstag Dome , which also has a rooftop restaurant that’s perfect for lunch. 

Where to Stay in Berlin

The best locations for tourists in Berlin is right in the center of the city, called Mitte. From here, you’ll be in easy walking distance of all the top sights and you won’t need to take public transportation unless you want to head further outside the main areas.

We enjoyed staying at the COSMO Hotel (newly opened Design Hotel) to the southeast. The Radisson Blu to the northeast and the Grand Hyatt to the southwest are also good choices.

• Hilton Berlin ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor  |  Book a stay
• The Grand Hyatt ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor  |  Book a stay
• COSMO ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor  |  Book a stay
• Radisson Blu read reviews on Trip Advisor | Book a stay

Where to Eat in Berlin

You might be expecting the typical German foods in Berlin, but schnitzel isn’t the only thing on the menu in this melting pot of a city. There is a great international food influence in Berlin that leads to a lot of fusion.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Berlin on a Thursday, be sure to check out all the street-food vendors at Markthalle Neun . It opens at 5pm and features dozens of food options.

Even before I spent any time in Berlin, I knew about the Currywurst . It’s Bratwurst served with curry powder and ketchup, plus generally a side of fries. It’s one of the most popular street food dishes in Berlin. You’ll find some of the best Currywurst at Curry Mitte (in the middle of Mitte – very convenient), or at Curry 36.

• Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Tour from Berlin
• Berlin Icebar Experience Including 3 Drinks
• Classic Bites and Culinary Trends Neighborhood Food Tour in Berlin

Day 3: Dresden

Dresden is between 2 and 3 hours away from Berlin by train or car. This city is the perfect follow-up to your historical journey through Berlin. Dresden has three major landmarks – the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper opera house, and the Church of Our Lady – all of which are must-sees.

• The first thing you should do when you arrive in Dresden is visit the Frauenkirche Church , also known as the Church of Our Lady. This Baroque-style building has a rich history that begins in the 11th century when the originally Romanesque structure was built, through the 18th century when it was destroyed and rebuilt.
• The Zwinger Palace was built in the baroque style. It’s a palatial estate with gardens that houses internationally renowned museums and is the stage for many festivals, parades, and dramas.
• Semperoper is where you’ll find world-class opera, ballet and concert performances in one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world. Check out their calendar to see what’s on during your visit.
• We also recommend spending a few hours at the Green Vault . This is the site of the royal treasury, but it’s also a great spot for recreation.
• This Renaissance palace was the residence for the Electors and then the Kings of Saxony from the 16th to the 19th century.
• The Dresdener Residenzschloss was a residential palace from the 16-19 centuries, but is now a collection of museums for the various state collections.

Where to Stay in Dresden

The best place to stay in Dresden for tourists is the Altstadt, where you’ll really be able to enjoy and experience the rich past of the city and feel like you’re immersed in the history of the place. There are many great hotels in this area and they are walking distance to most things you’ll want to see.

• Gewandhaus Dresden, Autograph Collection
• Hilton Dresden
• NH Collection Altmarkt

Where to Eat in Dresden

The top Saxony dishes you should try in Dresden are mostly consisting of meat and potatoes. These are all definitely worth a try if you find them on the menu:

• Rinderroulade – This is a thin-sliced round steak, rolled up with a coat of mustard with diced bacon and pickles.
• Dresdner Sauerbraten mit Rotkraut – A slow roasted and spiced leg of beef that is sliced and served with red cabbage and bread dumplings.
• Sachsische Kartoffelsuppe – A hearty potato soup with speck or sausage.

Pulverturm , located right downtown, is a great place to try Saxony dishes in a unique underground vault restaurant complete with original stone walls.

You’ll also find many of the dishes above on the menu at AltMarktkeller , a beer cellar restaurant that serves local traditional dishes.

We especially love Paulaner’s im Taschenbergpalais which serves excellent Central European cuisine alongside a great variety of beer.

A popular beer garden where you can eat and drink outside is Augustus Garten – definitely go here if it’s a nice day out and you want to just enjoy the atmosphere and the nice weather.

• City Walk – Dresden in One Day

Day 4-5: Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a fair train journey from Dresden (about 7 hours), so you might need to leave it off your itinerary if you’re using the train – or plan to add an extra day for the journey. If you’re driving, it will take about 4 hours 30 minutes. For that reason, we have given 2 days for this cute town, so you can enjoy the drive along the Romantic Road, or get there by train and still have time to see everything.

Romantic Road is one of the most well-traveled paths in Germany. It takes you through several quaint and picturesque towns like Ausburg and Wurzburg as well as beautiful forests before reaching the famously colorful town of Rothenburg. 

Rothenburg’s streets are lined with timbered houses, painted in every color of the rainbow. Complete with cobbled streets and warm-looking red roofs, Rothenburg ob der Tauber (which translates in English to ‘red fortress above Tauber River’) dates back to the Medieval ages and feels like a trip back in time. 

If you choose to visit Germany in December, you will love the abundance of Christmas markets that set up along the streets. Be sure to grab a mug of hot Glühwein as well. Last time I visited, you got a different souvenir mug to keep from each Gluhwein stand.

Here are the things you’ll want to do in the city:

Take a walk along the walls. The old quarter has 42 towers, most of which you’ll find along the 4 kilometer Tower Trail, which is open around the clock for you to walk on, with plaques along the way giving information.

Walk around town. You’ll see the beautiful Town Hall (Rathaus) with the clocktower that animates every hour with cute little figurines. Also be sure to see the most picturesque spot in town (pictured below), the Plönlein, which translates as “little square”. So cute!

Rothenburg Castle makes for a relaxing afternoon strolling through the castle garden or the park, learning some more history on the way. 

In the evening, if you’re in the mood for an eerie and exciting experience, you should book a spot on the Night Watchman Tour to hear some German legends and see Rothenburg at night.

Where to Stay in Rothenburg

The town is very small so there are only a few choices for hotels, all of which are well located and easy walking distance. My recommended hotels are:

• Hotel BurgGartenpalais
• Hotel Eisenhut

What to Eat in Rothenburg

What I love about this town is how everywhere you go is just as cute as the next place. There are some really cool places to eat here.

There are also a number of local foods you should try. One of my favorites is the Schneeball, which you will see in the store windows of many bakeries. Stop and give one a try. This is also a good opportunity to try Wiener schnitzel (pounded breaded veal) and Schweinsbraten (roast pork).

Zur Höll – Translates as “To Hell”, this is a super cool medieval cellar restaurant with a cozy atmosphere inside one of the oldest homes in Rothenburg. Some of the tables are in carved out caves.

The Bell Restaurant – If you’re a wine lover , you have to visit this restaurant and winery located on the Plönlein Corner. You can even take a tour of the vineyard and cellar.

Day 6: Neuschwanstein Castle

On day 6, you will be exploring Neuschwanstein Castle , which is about 2 hours outside Munich in the village of Hohenschwangau. It takes about 2 hours 20 minutes to get there by car from Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Another option is to go directly to Munich and take a guided tour to Neuschwanstein, which will take away some of the stress of planning. I recommend this full-day tour from Munich , which includes round trip train and a guided tour.

The castle itself feels like something out of a fairytale, and you can learn all about its 19th-century history on a tour. Neuschwanstein Castle is a popular tourist attraction, so you must book your tickets in advance for a timed slot. The tour is 30 minutes long, but you have to also get up to the castle, which takes about 30 minutes as well.

You can buy tickets at the entrance, but you likely either won’t get the time you prefer or you won’t get a ticket at all if they sell out, especially because they go on sale at 8am and you likely won’t arrive by then.

You can also take a tour of the Hohenschwangau castle on the opposite mountain, but you will need almost the whole day to complete these two, so you’ll have to decide how much time you have.

Where to Stay

If you’re planning to stay overnight in Neischwanstein and really get the most out of your time there, you’ll want to book at the Villa Ludwig Suite Hotel & Chalet . It’s fantastic and located right in the historic center of Schwangau.

Where to Eat Near Neuschwanstein Castle

If you want to sit down for a meal while you’re visiting the castle, I would recommend the Neuschwanstein Restaurant that is located up on the hill as you come down. It is a touristy area, so no matter where you eat it will be a tourist restaurant, so why not try the one with the most atmosphere.

Order a kase spaetzle and a schweineschnitzel and enjoy the scenery.

At the bottom of the hill, after you’ve descended into town, our recommendation is Schlossbrauhaus Schwangau , which is a rustic microbrewery serving authentic Bavarian cuisine.

Instead of staying in the area, I recommend taking the train back to Munich for the night. There are more choices and you’ll be ready to go for day 7.

• Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Castle Small-Group Premium All-Inc Tour from Munich
• Neuschwanstein Castle Small-Group Day Tour from Munich

Day 7: Munich City Center

Spend your final day in Germany in one of the most vibrant and fun-filled cities in the country: Munich.

Munich Old Town is a must-see if you’re interested in medieval architecture. The Glockenspiel is probably the main tourist attraction in the area. It’s the chimes of the clock tower that plays a scene with dancing figures on the hour. You’ll find this at the New City Hall (Rathaus) tower at Marienplatz. Plan to be there on the hour, then take a walk along the Marienplatz to take in all the sights and do a little shopping.

One of the best ways to learn about Munich and get acquainted with the city in a short time is on a walking tour. I recommend this 2-hour tour that takes you to historic landmarks like the Old Town Hall, Frauenkirche and St Peter’s Church, past the famous Hofbräuhaus beer hall, into the lively Viktualienmarkt food market, Marienplatz and Odeonsplatz.

We also recommend taking a walk around Englischer Garten, which is a park dating back to the 18th century. This is the perfect place to enjoy lunch with a cold beer and a satisfying view because there are plenty of beer gardens, including our personal favorite, Hirschau .

You can take your pick from the various museums open to the public in Munich. The State Museum of Egyptian Art is particularly fascinating, as is the Deutsches Museum . To see some incredible antique sculptures from the Greek and Roman eras, be sure to visit the Glyptothek .

Want to spend more time in Munich? Check out this Munich Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Munich .

Where to Stay in Munich

I like to stay within walking distance of the Marianplatz because most everything you’ll be doing is near there. However, if you are planning your trip to coincide with Oktoberfest, you might want to stay nearer to the fest grounds called the Theresienwiese , so I have two recommendations.

• Platzl Hotel – 4 star hotel, 5 minutes walk to the Marianplatz
• Marc Munchen – Adults only 4-star hotel within close proximity to the Theresienwiese and the train station. We’ve stayed here numerous times and always love it.

Where to Eat in Munich

Bavarian food is much like what you’ve come to expect in Germany with a lot of sausage, schnitzel and potato dumplings. There are a few extra dishes that are served in Bavaria that are unique to here.

• Weisswurst – a white sausage made with veal and pork and served in a bowl of broth, often served with a pretzel and beer on the side.
• Münchner Schnitzel – Like other variations of schnitzel, this one is special to Munich and is spread with horseradish or mustard before being breaded and fried.

You can toast the amazing experiences you’ve had and order a final Bavarian meal at Hofbrauhaus , which is one of the most famous taverns in the world. It’s huge and super fun. Another way to enjoy it is on a Beer & Food Evening Tour, on which you’ll visit Hofbrauhaus and a few others, plus the beer museum.

Another place we really like to eat is Weinhaus Schneider , a cozy and eclectic fondue restaurant near the Rathaus. The Ratskeller Restaurant is another fun 19th-century cellar restaurant right next to the Rathaus.

Attending Oktoberfest

If you’re planning your trip to coincide with Oktoberfest , which takes place from mid-September to early October most years, you will definitely want to plan ahead. Hotels fill up fast, so book your stay at least 4-6 months ahead.

You don’t need tickets to attend Oktoberfest and the best time to go is during lunch on the weekdays, so you can get a seat at a table and see various tents without needing a table reservation. Table reservations for the evening session are VERY hard to come by. Try this small-group Oktoberfest tour that includes a reserved tent table.

Read our full guide on Oktoberfest to plan your trip.

Tours To Try:

• Bavarian Beer and Food Evening Tour in Munich
• Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site Tour from Munich by Train

What To Do If You Have More Time

Day 8+: lake constance and the black forest.

A lot of our itinerary so far has been based in some of Germany’s famous cities, but if you have extra time to spend, we recommend getting away from the city and exploring the Black Forest and Lake Constance. 

Lake Constance is a World Heritage Site, located about 3 hours away from Rottenburg, and it’s one of the best places to go if you want to see the Alps in all their glory. 

The Black Forest is about 2 hours away from Lake Constance. If you’re driving, you could stop at Constanzer Wirtshaus for lunch on the way. This is a traditional German Pub with a beautiful view of the river.

Wine Tasting in Germany

The Black Forest is also known for being home to some of Germany’s best vineyards and wineries. If you’re in the mood for a glass of wine after your forest excursion, you should definitely visit Nagelsforst for a wine tasting.

The wine area of The Black Forest is the 3rd largest and southern-most wine region in Germany

Tips For Visiting Germany 

If this will be your first time visiting Germany, bear these tips in mind to ensure you get the most out of your week: 

• Remember that Germany is amongst the most populous European countries, and since it’s known for being very tourist-friendly, it’s also a popular vacation destination. This means that you’re likely to encounter a lot of crowds, especially in major cities like Berlin and Munich. Therefore, it’s best to book restaurant tables, tours, and other activities ahead of time. 
• Germany is a beautiful country, but it’s important to remember that many aspects of German history are very sensitive and sobering subjects. Therefore, it is imperative to be respectful at all times, but particularly when visiting memorials and historical sites. 
• A week in Germany is enough to see the major cities and have a diverse range of experiences. However, if you want to spend more time in cities like Berlin or try to see some of Germany’s lesser-known hidden gems , we recommend extending your stay to 10 days or 2 weeks. 
• Restaurants and Bars – You do not get water for free, you have to pay for it. If you order water you will get carbonated water. In most restaurants, you can request tap water and they may or may not charge you but it is most likely straight from the sink.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days in germany is enough.

For a more comprehensive tour of Germany, including major cities, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty, 10-14 days or more would be ideal. If you plan to visit one major city like Berlin, Munich, or Hamburg, a minimum of 3-4 days is a good starting point to get a taste of the city’s highlights. If you want to explore a specific region, like the Romantic Road or the Bavarian Alps, you might need around 5-7 days to see the main sights and immerse yourself in the local culture.

What to do in Germany for a week?

Start in Hamburg, where you can enjoy the funfair rides and cultural delights during Hamburg Dom. Explore the Speicherstadt and HafenCity, along with museums and beautiful lakes. Day 2 takes you to Berlin, where you’ll visit historical sites like the Holocaust Memorial and Berlin Wall. Marvel at the Brandenburg Gate and explore Museum Island. Day 3 continues to Dresden, known for its Baroque landmarks, including Zwinger Palace and Semperoper opera house. Day 4-5 brings you to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a picturesque town along the Romantic Road. Day 6 leads you to the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle, offering a glimpse of 19th-century history. End your journey in vibrant Munich, exploring its Old Town, the Glockenspiel, Englischer Garten, and fascinating museums. This itinerary promises a memorable and diverse exploration of Germany’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

How much money do you need for a week in Germany?

Overall, a rough estimate for a budget traveler in Germany might be around €800-1200 for a week, excluding international flights. Mid-range travelers could plan for €1200-2000, while luxury travelers might budget upwards of €2500 or more.

Remember that these are general estimates, and your expenses depend on travel choices and spending habits.

Final Thoughts On This 7-Day Germany Itinerary

We hope that you’ll thoroughly enjoy your week in Germany with the help of our 7-day itinerary! 

Remember to leave yourself enough time to travel by car or train between your destinations each day to ensure you get to see everything.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

4 thoughts on “ The Perfect 7-Day Germany Itinerary ”

Do you actually put together trips for Oktoberfest or do I need to go through a travel agent?

We don’t put together the trips ourselves. We just offer advice.

Can you give me a roundabout of how much the 7 day might cost if we rent a car and stay in moderately priced hotels? Without airfare, of course.

Hi Kim, It’s very hard to estimate because every traveler is different in their spending, but the average price of a 7-day trip to Germany is $2,200 for a couple and $2,600 for a family of 4.

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The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany

Searching for the ultimate 7-day getaway to Germany ? Look no further! We've meticulously analyzed an array of week-long guided tours, taking into account factors such as price, service, comfort, guest ratings, and activities so that we could find the absolute best. These handpicked 7-day tours to Germany offer the ideal balance of relaxation and adventure, allowing you to make the most of your holiday. From exciting excursions that immerse you in the local culture to moments of pure tranquility, these week long tours are designed to provide the perfect timeframe for an unforgettable experience. Great for museums & attractions, food, nightlife, and skiing, Germany is a terrific destination. Get ready to embark on a 7-day journey to Germany that will leave you refreshed, invigorated, and with a newfound love for exploration.

From Bavaria to the Black Forest to the Alps to the small towns along the rivers to the mix of historic and modern architecture in the big cities, Germany offers plenty of beautiful and scenic spots for visitors. Cities such as Berlin, Hamburg, and Heidelberg showcase historic urban centers with gorgeous architecture and modern amenities, while the small mountain and riverside towns provide picture-perfect views from every angle. Germany does not disappoint if you're looking for nice scenery!

• Christmas in Central Europe, Vienna to Berlin 7 Days, $1849.00
• Magical Bavaria 7 Days, $3199.00
• Trans Tyrol - Garmisch to Innsbruck 7 Days, $1120.00

Which 7-day tour options are available in Germany?

Here are the important factors:

• 7 trip options analyzed
• $284 average price per day (USD)
• 4.53 of 5 average rating
• 16 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of tours lasting 7 days in Germany, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.53 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 16 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. With our thorough analysis of 7 tours lasting 7 days, we've found the best. So rest assured that Germany has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 7 Best 7-Day Tours in Germany

Christmas in central europe, vienna to berlin.

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours lasting 7 days.

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional journey, visiting Austria and Germany, that has garnered a 3.7 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 7 days, this jouney will have 18 participants, and it warmly welcomes guests age 12 and older. Expertly organized by G Adventures , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $264 per day.

• Festival & Events

Magical Bavaria

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This memorable journey is offered by Indus Travels which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 5 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $457 per day. Discover a journey that spans 8 destinations, with notable stops in Wurzburg, Berchtesgaden, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Nuremberg. Your journey will begin in Munich and end in Frankfurt-am-Main. The maximum group size is 6 people, welcoming guests age 18 to 90.

• In-depth Cultural

Trans Tyrol - Garmisch to Innsbruck

Set off on an extraordinary journey, visiting Germany and Austria, that has been awarded a 5 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 7 days, this trip offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 15 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to guests age 2 and older. Begin your trip in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and complete it with a memorable finale in Innsbruck. Brought to you by UTracks , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $160 per day.

• Mountain Hikes
• Self Guided Walking Holidays

Alsace on E-bikes guided cycling tour

With this option you can experience an unparalleled voyage for 7 unforgettable days, visiting Germany and France. It ensures an intimate group setting with 20 participants at most. With 6 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Sélestat, Strasbourg, Colmar, and Riquewihr, and more. Your journey starts off in Münster and finishes in Strasbourg. Terranova Touristik , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests guests age 18 to 90. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $319 per day.

Main River BikeTour | Self-Guided | Wurzburg to Frankfurt

This fantastic trip has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Along the way, this journey encompasses 6 destinations, including Lohr a. Main, Wertheim, Miltenberg, and Aschaffenburg. Your journey will begin in Wurzburg and end in Frankfurt-am-Main. Lasting 7 days, the maximum group size is 20 people, and it's good for guests age 18 to 90. Organized by Terranova Touristik , this is a great deal because it's only $105 per day.

• Self-Guided Cycling

Mecklenburg Lake District Guided Bike Tour of Lakes, Castles and Idyllic Villages

With a stellar 4.6 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary trip is the perfect choice. This itinerary covers 4 captivating destinations, with stops in Müritz National Park and Röbel, among others. Begin your trip in Neustrelitz and complete it with a memorable finale in Waren. Spanning across 7 days, the trip accommodates 20 individuals, and is suitable for guests age 18 to 90. Offered by Terranova Touristik , this remarkable trip is priced at just $287 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Lake Constance | Gudied Bike Tour | Germany, Switzerland, Austria

This exceptional trip offering by Terranova Touristik has received a 4 out of 5 rating. On this 7-day voyage, visiting Germany and Switzerland, you can unwind while also making new memories. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 7 destinations, featuring St Gallen, Gottlieben, Reichenau, and Markdorf. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Uberlingen. With a group size of 16 people, it's suitable for guests age 18 to 90. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $393 per day.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany , The Best Historical Tours in Germany , The Best 10-Day Tours in Germany , The Best 3-Day Tours in Germany , The Best River Cruises in Germany , The Best Bicycle Tours in Germany , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Germany , The Best Oktoberfest Tours in Germany , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Germany , The Best Christmas Market Tours in Germany , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany , The Best Adventure Tours to Germany , The Best Eco Tours in Germany , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Germany , The Best Cultural Tours in Germany , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany , The Best Music Tours in Germany , The Best Camping Tours in Germany , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany , The Best Walking Tours in Germany , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Germany , The Best Luxury Tours to Germany , The Best Budget Tours to Germany , or The Best Tours for Seniors to Germany for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Munich , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Cologne , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Passau , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Nuremberg , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Frankfurt-am-Main , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilshofen an der Donau , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Garmisch-Partenkirchen , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Deggendorf , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Trier , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Potsdam , The Best 10-Day Tours from Munich , The Best 10-Day Tours from Nuremberg , The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin , The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin , The Best 2-Week Tours from Passau , The Best 2-Week Tours from Vilshofen an der Donau , The Best 2-Week Tours from Frankfurt-am-Main , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Nuremberg for more package tour options.

How much do 7-day tours to Germany cost?

After analyzing 7 tours lasting 7 days in Germany, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $284 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for tours lasting 7 days with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Germany .

And for more information on Germany, see Germany Travel Costs and Germany Hotel Costs .

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4 Rivers: The Neckar, Romantic Rhine, Moselle, and Sarre Valleys

Christmastime on the danube (eastbound).

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Christmastime on the Danube

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Heidelberg, Germany

Germany is a country of astonishing depth and diversity, which you can experience on our best seven-day Germany tour packages, including festive trips and romantic escapes.

From historic castles nestled in the Bavarian Alps to windswept beaches along the North Sea, Germany offers a striking range of landscapes to explore. Thriving metropolises like Berlin and Munich blend seamlessly with picturesque small towns, each with unique charm and history. With rich cultural traditions and innovative museums, Germany enthralls visitors with an intoxicating mix of old-world charm and visionary thinking.

Designed by our expert travel specialists, these seven-day German tour packages provide intimate, in-depth experiences of the best this country has to offer.

1. 7-Day Germany Christmas Market Tour: Frankfurt to Munich

2. highlights of germany tour: best of 5 cities, 3. romantic getaway to germany tour: an unforgettable experience, 4. 12 michelin stars in 7 days: journey to germany’s unexpected culinary center, 5. discovering the heart of the black forest tour, 6. rhine & wine tour: exploring hidden vineyards, charming villages, medieval castles, 7. oktoberfest germany tour: munich and landshut, plan your 7-day germany tour package with a travel specialist.

Christmas market in Frankfurt, Germany

Length: 7 days

Places Visited: Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Rothenburg, Nuremberg, Munich

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Capture the essence of a German Christmas on this 7-Day Germany Christmas Market Tour: Frankfurt to Munich , visiting captivating cities and charming towns. Wander through Frankfurt's illuminated St. Paul's Square, soak in the romance of Heidelberg's castle ruins, and discover Rothenburg's enchanting Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas Museum.

Journey along Bavaria's fairy-tale roads, stopping in picturesque villages filled with holiday magic. Explore Nuremberg's iconic Christkindlesmarkt, one of Germany's oldest Christmas markets, and admire traditional ornaments. Finally, experience Munich's delightful city center and gardens at Nymphenburg Palace, all dressed in Yuletide splendor.

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Berlin, Germany

Places Visited: Berlin, Bremen, Cologne, Munich, Hamburg

From the remnants of the Berlin Wall to Munich's famous beer halls, our Highlights of Germany Tour: Best of 5 Cities showcases Germany's history and heritage. In Berlin, discover a capital rich in history while touring dramatic WWII and Holocaust sites. Then, journey to Hamburg's historic port districts, which are likened to Venice in their beauty.

Make stops in the fairy-tale towns of Bremen and Münster, exploring German heritage and the country's oldest wine cellar. Marvel at Cologne's magnificent Gothic cathedral and landmarks dating back to ancient Roman times. Finally, conclude your journey in München, immersing yourself in the city's vibrant ambiance and world-renowned beer gardens.

Würzburg, Germany

Places Visited: Frankfurt, Wurzburg, Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber, Augsburg, Füssen, Munich

Escape on a modern-day fairy tale through charming Bavaria on this Romantic Getaway to Germany Tour: An Unforgettable Experience . Wander along the famed Romantic Road, taking in picturesque mountain vistas, quaint villages, and medieval towns frozen in time. Then, tour Würzburg's UNESCO-listed Residenz palace, home to the world's largest fresco.

On this seven-day Germany tour package, step back to the Middle Ages in the preserved town of Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber. Visit the magnificent Schloss Neuschwanstein, the real-life inspiration for Disney castles, and cap off your storybook adventure in Munich, admiring iconic landmarks and savoring traditional cuisine and beer. This trip brings fairy tales to life, unveiling Germany's dreamiest destinations.

Michelin star restaurant, Posthotel Alexander Herrmann. Photo courtesy of DZT / Jens Wegen

Length: 7 nights

Places Visited: Munich, Stuttgart, Baiersbronn, Black Forest

Indulge in this culinary tour, 12 Michelin Stars in Seven Days: Journey to Germany’s Unexpected Culinary Center , for seven spectacular nights of feasting. Savor five-course tasting menus each evening at world-famous restaurants and meet celebrity chefs while their staff present hand-crafted signature dishes.

When not dining on creative cuisine, explore enchanting Christmas markets in Munich and Stuttgart, admire Black Forest vistas, or relax in five-star accommodations. This trip celebrates the finest in German hospitality and culinary ingenuity.

Black Forest region in Gemany

Places Visited: Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Black Forest, Baden-Baden, Vogtsbauernhöfe, Freiburg, Lake Mummelsee, Breitnau, Titisee, Baiersbronn, Stuttgart

Escape into the mystique of southwestern Germany's Black Forest region on our Discovering the Heart of the Black Forest Tour . Traverse foggy woodlands and stop in charming villages untouched by time. Cruise the sublime Rhine River past vine-clad valleys and ancient castle ruins. Relax amid European nobility in the restorative spa town of Baden-Baden.

Journey through rural idylls on the forest's peaceful High Route and discover Heidelberg's romantic old town and Freiburg's medieval charms. End by enjoying Stuttgart and tiny Baiersbronn, an unlikely global dining destination with Michelin stars spotlighting the Black Forest's emergence as a world-class culinary center.

Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany

Places Visited: Frankfurt, Rüdesheim, Worms, Heidelberg

Discover one of Germany's most scenic regions on our Rhine & Wine Tour: Exploring Hidden Vineyards, Charming Villages, Medieval Castles tour along the sublime Rhine River. Lose yourself amid Rüdesheim's medieval wine-grower streets and cruise past vine-blanketed hills crowned by fairy-tale castles. Discover Rheinhessen's wines during a vineyard day trip.

Begin in Frankfurt, where modern design meets old-world secrets. Then, journey back centuries in captivating Heidelberg, spending evenings in half-timbered taverns that retain their medieval atmosphere. This trip indulges travelers in an unexpected world of Rhine wine, vine-laced vistas, and charming riverside villages – an overlooked realm of beauty and history.

Oktoberfest in Germany

Places Visited: Munich

Experience the epic revelry of Oktoberfest on this seven-night Oktoberfest Germany Tour: Munich and Landshut . Tour grand landmarks before embracing Munich's festive spirit. Journey to the lovely Landshut, wandering its medieval lanes and touring the hilltop castle. Indulge in an Aying brewery visit to taste premier local beers.

Then, join hordes of merrymakers at the festival itself, toasting prost while swaying to oompah bands, the trip's crescendo after delving deep into 200+ years of cultural traditions. From palaces to beer halls, immerse yourself in all facets of Bavaria's most iconic celebration.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Germany is a land of rich heritage and breathtaking beauty. From the vibrant urban energy of Berlin to the soaring Bavarian Alps, its scenery spans lush forests, romantic castles, and medieval villages frozen in time. For history buffs and nature lovers alike, Germany offers a dazzling array of one-of-a-kind destinations that you can learn about in our Germany travel guide .

Whether you're looking for a dreamy escape along the Romantic Road, an intimate introduction to Christmas markets and holiday traditions, or a highlights tour of Germany's most storied cities, our hand-crafted seven-day Germany itineraries deliver intimate, in-depth experiences.

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7 Day Germany Itinerary (A 2023 Guide)

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If you’re spending a week in Germany, there aren’t many better ways to go than a quick tour of many of this amazing country’s biggest cities. From iconic Medieval architecture to the unique but excellent German food and drink or impressive museums, there’s a lot to love about this special country.

This 7-day itinerary will take you all the way across the country, from the historic beer halls of Munich in Bavaria in the south to the busy modern city of Hamburg in the north. Along the way, you’ll be able to stop off to tour fairy tale castles, stunning Medieval mountain towns, and eccentric or unique attractions at every turn.

The German public transport network is super efficient, and cheap too. Check out an Interrail pass for even more savings on trains! Germans also love driving though, and the country has a famous Autobahn road network. So, you have plenty of options.

You can definitely follow our lead exactly for a full-on way to tour Germany in 7 days. Or take an extra day or two in any one place. It’s up to you!

For more European city break ideas across the wider continent, try our guide to The Best European City Break Ideas for 2023.

Table of Contents

Day 1: munich, day 2 to 3 : stuttgart and baden-baden, days 3 to 4: heidelberg, day 5: alsfeld and hanover, day 6: bremen, day 7: hamburg.

• Experience the unique charm of the capital of Bavaria
• Stroll through markets and festivals celebrating famous German food and beer
• Dozens of world-class palaces, museums and art galleries, such as the awesome Munich Residenz

Germany is such a big and diverse country, that the start of your trip in Munich will feel very different from the end of it in Hamburg. The capital of the province of Bavaria, Munich has its own beautiful charm. Plus, some of the best art museums and cultural attractions in Europe – if not the world.

It’s also a party loving city! Obviously, a lot of you will have heard of Oktoberfest – the largest beer drinking festival of them all. But you might not know that Munich is somewhat of a nightlife hotspot year round. It has the highest density of music venues in Germany, even more than the capital Berlin.

Backstage Kulturzentrum Munich, right by Hirschgarten train station, is a top spot for live dance music from drum & bass to reggae to hip-hop. For a more alternative and intense night out try Nerodom, Munich’s only goth club! If you prefer a calmer kind of evening, try the classy Gärtnerplatz square with its many theatres and fashionable bars.

For the morning after, or even if you didn’t go out and are up bright and early, try breakfast at Schmalznudel Café Frischhut. This charming café is right in the centre of Munich’s old town. Sit and watch the bustling but charming street life, as you set yourself up for your onward journey with a classic Bavarian pastry breakfast. And excellent coffee!

• A 2-hour journey to Stuttgart, with it’s automobile museums and expansive parks
• Try walking up a Monte Scherbelino, a hill partially made of WWII rubble offering sweeping views of the city
• Head onwards to Baden Baden, a popular Black Forest resort town

Once you leave Munich, it’s a scenic two-and-a-half hour drive or train to our next stop – the city of Stuttgart. This historic city is known as Europe’s Home of the Automobile. You’ll find Porsche and Mercedes Benz have factories, and highly-rated museums, here.

There are also loads of gorgeous parks in Stuttgart, that form a giant U shape around the city. In fact, you can walk around the entire city centre area, and be in parks the whole time!

If you’ve still got more walking in you, try heading up Monte Scherbelino (or Rubble Hill) for the best views in the city. This natural hill got about 200 feet taller after World War II, when all the rubble from the city’s destroyed buildings was piled up here.

As well as all the attractions of a major regional hub city, you’ll find many beautiful small country towns in the area around Stuttgart. Premier among these is the famous Baden-Baden on the River Oos. Baden Baden has been attracting tourists for hundreds of years with its amazing walks and forested surroundings. Take a ride up the modern Merkur Bergbahn mountain train, for the best views of the town!

Baden Baden makes more sense to drive to, taking about one and a half hours from Stuttgart. If you get the train it takes about the same time, but our onward journey will take you back on yourself slightly. Still, the train route does pass through picturesque villages of the Black Forest region. So you might not mind too much!

• It’s a 1.5 hour journey from Baden Baden to this beautiful riverside town, nestled in a mountain valley
• Take a cable car to a ruined 12th century castle with incredible views of the town
• Visit museums including a Student Jail or the Kurpfälzisches Museum of local art and history

This gorgeous mountain town was voted Europe’s most beautiful destination several times, and you can probably see why! Our next stop after Stuttgart or Baden Baden, is Heidelberg.

We recommend setting off from Baden Baden in the early morning or afternoon, and then spending the whole day and a night (or more) in Heidelberg. It’s one of the highlights of the route!

If places are available in the popular town, try staying at Hotel Zur Alten Brücke. This a cozy boutique spot is right opposite one of the town’s famous old bridges and is within walking distance of many historic museums.

Whilst you’re in Heidelberg be sure to take the cable car up to Heidelberg Castle. For about 10 Euro you can ride up to the partially ruined castle on a craggy hilltop, and enjoy incredible sweeping views of this gorgeous mountain valley town and the River Neckar.

On the way to our next destination, you’ll go right through the modern financial city of Frankfurt. You could stop off for a day or night there, but for our money – two days to explore Heidelberg is a better choice! If you do take a day in Frankfurt, make sure to visit a local Apfelweinloka or Cider Tavern where you can grab a glass of the delicious regional apple wine.

• A 2.5 hour journey through fairy-tale country from Heidelberg to magical Alsfeld
• The beautifully well-kept old town of Alsfeld is full of magical and wondrous Medieval buildings as well as fairy tale tours and museums
• Head on to the city of Hanover, known as “Germany’s Biggest Small Town”

So, in this part of the itinerary, you’ll be traveling through what is known as the Fairy Tale Roadway. That’s because so many of the Western world’s most popular stories were first collected from folk tales in this region, by the brothers Grimm.

The town of Alsfeld is a top example of this fantastic beauty. Its lovingly preserved Medieval Old Town features narrow cobbled streets and iconic half-timber buildings. The town hosts Little Red Riding Hood tours, as the local women’s traditional red hats inspired the main character’s attire in the classic tale.

If you want to stay in Alesfeld, we recommend the Hotel Villa Raab to the south of the town centre. It’s a unique building and a super-plush hotel too, with a lovely breakfast. Make sure to stop at the magical Fairy Tale House Museum, in an incredible 16th-century townhouse!

Alternatively, head on and stay the night in the large nearby city of Hanover. About 3 hours away by train or car, Hanover is often called Germany’s biggest small town because of its quiet, homely atmosphere. Don’t expect a huge nightlife scene, but there are plenty of great places to stay and lovely green parks to explore.

• The Fairy Tale Route ends here in this charming riverside city
• Have a glass of vintage wine with Kale and Sausage, in the oldest wine cellar in Germany
• Discover riverside nightlife in the Schlachte district, or try the cobbled alleyways and tiny shops of the Schnoor area

Bookmarking the northern end of the Fairy Tale Route, we have the city of Bremen. This historic river-trading city is also known for the fairy tale, The Town Musicians of Bremen. This folk tale, first collected by the Brothers Grimm, tells of a band of farm animals that decided to escape their mistreatment and become musicians – in this very city.

There’s a big old statue of them in the city square today. Three animals (the dog, the cat and the rooster) stand on the back of the donkey. If you touch both the front legs of the donkey, it’s supposed to bring good luck!

Bremen also has the oldest Ratskeller (wine cellar) in Germany. Founded in 1407, it holds casks of wines going back as far as 1653! Today it’s a popular and opulent place for a drink and a meal, although don’t expect to sample any 500-year-old vintages.

Also worth a visit is the beautiful tiny alleyways and shops (and we mean tiny in some cases) of the Schnoor area. Or, try the cobblestoned town square, with its weekly markets. The picture-perfect red-brick Villa Linnenschmidt, in a quiet residential area about half an hour’s walk from the city centre, is a great spot to stay.

• The last stop of our trip in busy, industrial Hamburg
• Go up the ruined Church Tower of St Nicholas, once the tallest building in the world
• Enjoy awesome industrial architecture alongside riverside walks and hip nightlife districts

For the last day of our 7 day Germany itinerary, we begin with an hour and half journey from Bremen to the busy and modern port city of Hamburg. The architecture here might not have the fairy tale charm of the small towns you’ve visited, but there are some good-looking neighbourhoods here for sure.

Start your morning with at a traditional bakery, with a regional take on a cinnamon bun called a Franzbrotchen. They’re huge, gooey, and flaky, and they pair well with a strong black coffee or a local beer.

After your breakfast, take a scenic canal side walk around the harbor area. You’ll cross many impressive bridges and past imposing industrial warehouses. Plus, fans of the weird and macabre may enjoy Harry’s Harbour Bazaar – one of the weirdest and most fully-stocked curiosity shops in Europe.

Hamburg is the largest non-capital city in the EU, with just over 1.7 million people. So, all the ongoing transport links make this a great place to end our 7-day German holiday itinerary. To extend your holiday from here, hop on a train or plane just over the border and start our 7-day Austria itinerary!

So there you go – a whistle-stop tour of some of Germany’s best sights. Basically, all along the Fairy Tale Route, from the traditional south to the industrial north. You’ve seen castles and curiosity shops, sampled beers and Bavarian nightlife, and seen some of the most popular towns in the country.

We hope you find it inspiring and worthy of a trip to this historic part of the world. And of course, there’s always more to explore, so stay Earth Curious!

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Home » Destinations » Europe » Germany » 5-14 Day Germany Itinerary: A Guide For Planning Your Perfect Germany Trip

5-14 Day Germany Itinerary: A Guide For Planning Your Perfect Germany Trip

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Plan Your Perfect Germany Itinerary with These Detailed Templates!

If you’re looking to plan the perfect trip around Germany, you are in luck! We’re passionate about exploring Germany because it’s a great country – and because Lisa is German!

Jokes aside, we’ve been lucky enough (and have made it a point) to see lots of different parts of the country – from the sea in the north to the mountains in the south. That said, Germany can be a tough country to plan a route or road trip through because there is just so much to see and do!

So, whether you’re looking for the best week in Germany or a Germany itinerary that covers 5 days or 14 days – here’s our master guide with 7 detailed Germany itineraries by train and/or by car! We’ve got cities, attractions, hotels and accommodations, directions, and distances to help you plan the best Germany travel route for you!

We’ve got other great posts to help you plan a visit to Germany:

• Must-Knows + Tips for Travelling to Germany for the First Time
• Helpful German Phrases to Get You By
• Discover 30 Beautiful Places in Germany
• Our Top Hostels in Germany (Stayed at all of them)

Table of Contents

Things to Consider When Travelling in Germany

Before you plan your trip to Germany, there are some things that you should know and keep in mind to make planning easier and to have a successful trip. While you probably know that the currency used in Germany is the Euro, here are some other topics that you should consider as well.

Best Time of Year to Visit Germany

Germany is actually a destination that you can visit year round – but it is important to plan accordingly and go in with the right expectations. If you’re planning a trip during the spring – let’s say from March to May – you could absolutely have beautiful weather… but it may also just rain a lot.

Unfortunately, the weather can be quite difficult to predict. However, as long as you prepare for different possibilities, you can have a great time no matter the weather! Generally you can say that Germany has a moderate climate with cool and rainy winters (more snowy the farther south you get) and warm – but not overly hot – summers.

July and August are usually the warmest months with an average temperature around 20°C. However, there can be days where you have 30°C. Of course, this can vary depending on the exact location you’re travelling to. Often, it is colder by the north coast than it is farther south. 

We would honestly recommend that you avoid visiting the country in July if you dislike crowds since this is when the majority of kids are on their summer break from school. As a result, some cities can get quite busy.

Typically, we would recommend travelling in May or June and then from the end of August until the end of September (or even the middle of October). However, there is also a great reason to plan a Germany trip during the winter because of the many beautiful Christmas markets that you could visit at that time of year!

Public Transportation in Germany

Public transportation in Germany is quite good, especially when compared to North America. Yes, sometimes us Germans like to complain about the “Deutsche Bahn” – the German train company – but at the same time we are also super glad that it exists and works well. 

If you’re wondering: Yes, all the itineraries mentioned below can absolutely be done if you want to take the train (minus the odd day trip to a castle here and there). If you want to check a train connection and/or buy tickets in advance you can do so on the DB Website . Alternatively, you can also download the DB app to your phone. We both have it and use it regularly. 

As an alternative to the train, you can sometimes also use the bus to get from one city/town to another. Since 2013 (before this date it wasn’t allowed), long distance buses have established their presence in more and more cities and are now a popular way to get around for people who are more conscious of their money.

Unfortunately long distance train tickets can sometimes get quite expensive if you don’t book in advance – so the bus can be a good alternative in some cases.

The most popular long distance bus company in Germany is probably Flixbus. We have also used them multiple times to get between cities. If you want to look at the schedule and/or book a ticket, you can do so on their website .

In addition to the trains and long distance buses, the public transport within the cities is also usually pretty good – especially in bigger centres. Many of the cities – or transport associations – have their own transport apps. So, if you know where you are going and plan on using the local buses, trams, metros, etc. then downloading the local transport app would be a great idea!

Car Rental in Germany

If you want to rent a car and plan a Germany road trip, then that is certainly an option as well. Driving in Germany is generally pretty safe and people are not usually as reckless as in some countries in the south of Europe. However, it can get a little crazy in bigger cities like Berlin or Munich – especially if you are not used to driving in bigger centres. 

In Germany, you drive on the right side as it is done in the United States, Canada, and many other countries as well. You have probably heard of the “Autobahn” – that’s simply the German name for our highway system. If you follow any of these itineraries, you’ll drive on many different highways. 

While it is true that there is no speed limit in some parts of the Autobahn, there are lots of sections where there are actually speed limits in place. You can usually find limits imposed at/around construction zones along the way – so don’t think you can just speed all the time.

And PLEASE don’t drive on the Autobahn like you would on a highway in the United States or Canada – pass on the left and then get back over . If you’re going slower than other cars, there’s no need for you to be in the left (or even in the middle) lane. You can probably tell that this is something that Lisa complains about in Canada frequently, haha. 

Since Germany is such a popular destination, there are lots of different rental car agencies to choose from. You can compare prices from different agencies for the duration of your trip with this handy rental car comparison tool . Please make sure to read the fine print so you know whether you need extra insurance, etc.

Also please be aware that many people in Germany drive cars with a stick shift. Rental cars with automatic transmissions exist, but the numbers available are usually lower and these cars might be slightly more expensive.

We’d also recommend that you reserve an automatic car well in advance if you need one – just so you can make sure that one is available for you. It probably wouldn’t be fun learning how to drive a stick shift while on a road trip in a foreign country. 

Travel Insurance for Germany

If you’re planning a trip to Germany and you’re not from another EU country, then you should make sure to get travel insurance for the duration of your trip!

While you’ll probably be fine, accidents do happen and it could get really expensive if you’re not covered. That’s why we always travel with insurance.

If you live in another EU country and have health insurance there, you can get the blue health insurance card with which you are covered in other EU countries in emergency cases, as well.

If you don’t have that option – or are from outside of Europe – we recommend that you get private travel insurance.

Germany Itinerary 5 Days

If you only have a few days to travel through Germany, then have a look below at the two 5-day itineraries we have created. For these itineraries, we have assumed that you are not already in the country so they all start and end in bigger cities.

This should help make it easier for you to fly in/out of an airport with good connections if you are coming from overseas.

Depending on your preferences, you can choose between a trip through the northern part of Germany or a trip through the south of the country (mainly Bavaria). If you are interested in bigger cities and/or harbours, then we’d recommend the northern route.

In case you prefer half-timbered houses and beautiful old towns, then you should have a look at the southern route instead. Of course, you can always modify any itinerary to better suit your interests!

Germany Itinerary 5 Days – North

This 5-day Germany itinerary through the northern part of the country can certainly be considered a “sampler-type” of itinerary since you get to see the two biggest cities in the country – but not much more than that.

That’s completely fine though – you can only see so much in five days anyway. If you are interested in bigger cities and don’t have more than a few days, then this itinerary would be great for you!

The total driving time for this itinerary would be about 5 hours 30 minutes with a total distance of approx. 520 km. Of course, this can change depending on the route you are taking and the time of day you are travelling. Commuter traffic could add quite a bit of travel time to your journey.

Day 1+2: Berlin Day 3: Bremen Day 4+5: Hamburg

Day 1+2: Berlin

Berlin is a great place to start your adventure since it is the German capital, has multiple airports close by, and has really good train connections.

Since Berlin is such a popular tourist and business city, the car rental industry is well established and there are many different rental agencies to choose from.

— Compare prices from rental car companies in Berlin here

However, since you are only visiting bigger cities on this relatively short itinerary, we believe that a rental car is probably not necessary. Instead, for this trip, it might make more sense to take the train.

Since Berlin is such a big city with lots of things to do, it is worth it to spend (at least) two days in the city. So, remember to book your accommodation in Berlin for two nights .

Accommodation in Berlin : Berlin is a massive sprawling city with loads of different areas to stay and different accommodation options. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Berlin .

If you are travelling to Berlin with a car, you’ll need a place to park. Check out Park Plaza Wallstreet Berlin Mitte for a stay right in the middle of the city close to Museum Island and other top attractions. It also has a tasty breakfast. Park Plaza has free parking on the street near the hotel (if available) or else it’s for a fee (but a reasonable price considering you’re in the middle).

If you are arriving into Berlin by train, you can check out NH Collection Berlin Mitte am Checkpoint Charlie . Located in the city centre right near the top sight “Checkpoint Charlie”, this popular hotel is in the heart of the action/attractions and is easy to get to via modes of public transit (metro – called the “U” for U-bahn).

If you are searching for a hostel/hotel, check out PLUS Berlin . Located over near the East Side Gallery (the piece of the Berlin wall with the artwork on it), Eric stayed here and really liked it! It’s also very easy to get to using public transit and is close to other areas to go out, etc.

Must-see Attractions in Berlin:

• Brandenburg Gate
• East Side Gallery (Berlin Wall)

We have also written a whole article about classic tourist attractions in Berlin in case you’d like some more inspiration. If you’re looking for some tips on how you could spend a day in Berlin, have a look at our One Day in Berlin Guide .

Day 3: Bremen

On the third day of your 5 days in Germany, you’ll head for Bremen. We’d recommend that you do the drive/train ride in the morning so you have enough time to explore the city once you get there.

Bremen is a hanseatic city with a nice old town – the market square with the town hall and the cathedral is especially popular. In German-speaking countries, the city is also known for a tale called the “Town Musicians of Bremen” by the Brothers Grimm. You’ll come across the animals of the tale (donkey, dog, cat, and rooster) many times as you stroll through the city.

The drive from Berlin to Bremen will take you approximately 4 hrs 10 min by car , but only around 3 hrs by train . If you take the train, try to book in advance if you can as this will usually save you some money.

Accommodation in Bremen: Bremen is a popular city to explore and it’s also on the larger side so you’ll find plenty of accommodations to suit your needs. There are hotels in the city centre/old town which put you within walking distance of the river and top attractions. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Bremen .

For a popular choice in the historic middle, you should check out the very popular Radisson Blu Hotel Bremen . Funny story – we know there’s underground parking because we parked there when we visited Bremen by car.

If you want to stay closer to the train station just outside the historic centre (but still very central), check out the Dorint City-Hotel Bremen . This lovely and also very popular hotel is close to the pretty Windmill and flower gardens and has water views just outside the old city walls.

Must-see Attractions in Bremen:

• Marktplatz with Town Hall and Cathedral
• Böttcherstraße
• Schnoorviertel

If you want some more tips for Bremen, have a look at our detailed Things to do in Bremen Guide .

Day 4+5: Hamburg

Hamburg is the second-biggest German city and the last stop on this short itinerary. We have been to Hamburg numerous times now and it is actually one of our favourite bigger German cities. You’ll find that the atmosphere of the city is very different than in Berlin. Not necessarily better or worse – just different.

Interesting (and slightly irrelevant) fact: The cities you visit on this itinerary are the three city states that exist in Germany in addition to the 13 area states such as Bavaria, Nordrhine-Westphalia etc.

The drive from Bremen to Hamburg is actually pretty simple and should only take around 1 hour 30 minutes by car and just around 1 hour if you take an ICE (fast train) . The train connection between these two cities is great with trains running pretty frequently. That should make it quite easy to find a train connection that works for your schedule.

Accommodation in Hamburg : Hamburg is popular city with loads of different accommodations and areas to stay in. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Hamburg .

If you are travelling to Hamburg with a car, you might want to check out the Mövenpick Hotel Hamburg . Located in an old water tower, this unique hotel has a number of cool features with stunning views and parking onsite. It’s very popular – and also close to public transit for getting around!

If you are travelling to Hamburg by train, ARCOTEL Rubin Hamburg is a great hotel option for you to check out. Located in the cool area of St. Georg, you can easily walk to the hotel from the train station. It’s also walkable to other parts of the city centre and other attractions.

If you are looking for a hostel in Hamburg, you might want to check out Generator Hamburg as a reliable and popular hostel stay close to central station and the heart of the city.

If you want more details about accommodations in the city, we have a more detailed guide on where to stay in Hamburg .

Must-see Attractions in Hamburg:

• Speicherstadt
• Elbphilharmonie
• St. Pauli Piers

As one of our first ever articles on Penguin and Pia, we actually wrote a short Hamburg Guide . Have a look if you want some more Hamburg inspiration. Unfortunately it’s not nearly as detailed as our newer article – looks like it’s time for an update!

Germany Itinerary 5 Days – South

If you would like to explore the southern part of Germany instead of the north, then we would recommend the following 5 days Southern Germany itinerary. Compared to the northern itinerary, this trip includes stops in some smaller towns and cities. So, if you are interested in seeing some places of various sizes, beautiful old towns, and maybe a castle, then this might be a good itinerary for you.

The driving distance of this trip is just around 680 kilometres with a total driving time of approx. 7 hours . Depending on your mode of transportation, this can – of course – vary slightly.

Day 1: Munich Day 2: Regensburg Day 3: Nuremberg Day 4: Stuttgart Day 5: Munich

Day 1: Munich

We are starting (and ending) this itinerary in Munich since it is an easy airport to fly in and out of from other parts of the world. If you are coming from another part of Europe by train, the connections to Munich are also usually pretty good.

Munich is the third-biggest German city and a very popular tourist destination. International travellers often mainly know the city because of the Oktoberfest which happens every year from the middle of September until October.

However, there is so much more to do and see in Munich than just the “Wiesn” (as the Oktoberfest is sometimes called as well). We are always happy to return to Munich because there is just so much to explore.

If you are thinking about renting a car for this itinerary, then you’ll be happy to know that it is quite easy to get a rental car in Munich. You can either pick it up directly at the airport after you land (if you arrive by plane) or in the city centre before you head to the next stop on this journey.

— Compare prices from rental car companies in Munich here

Accommodation in Munich: Munich is very large and popular city so finding a place to stay is no problem. The issue becomes that there are too many places to choose from! That said, you can check here for accommodations and hotels in Munich .

Specifically, we stayed at the very popular H2 Hotel München Olympiapark and we would highly recommend it for the value for money. The hotel has nice, cozy rooms, a super great breakfast buffet, and has a metro station steps from the front entrance to take you to the city centre.

There’s also onsite parking which makes this hotel perfect if you are travelling to Munich by car. The famous Olympic Park and BMW Museum are close by, too!

If you want to stay a little more in the city centre, then check out the Platzl Hotel Superior . This trendy hotel is in the heart of the Old Town just steps from top attractions like Marienplatz and the famous Hofbräuhaus. It’s also easy to get to the central train station either walking or on the metro.

If you are looking for more details on accommodations in this massive city, we wrote a detailed guide on where to stay in Munich .

Must-see Attractions in Munich:

• Marienplatz with New Town Hall
• Olympic Park
• Victuals Market
• English Garden

We also have a great little guide on how to spend one day in Munich if you want more details.

Day 2: Regensburg

On day two of your trip you’ll be on your way to Regensburg, a small city in Bavaria on the Danube river. Due to its location by the river, Regensburg is a popular stop for people on a river cruise. So don’t be surprised if you see many different tour groups in the Old Town.

We recently spent a couple of days in Regensburg to get to know the city better and enjoyed our time there. One of the highlights is the Old Stone Bridge in the city centre which was built in the 12th century. We actually filmed a small YouTube video in Regensburg – which you can watch here if you are curious about what the city looks like.

The journey from Munich to Regensburg takes approximately 1 hr 20 minutes by car and around 1 hr 30 minutes by train . If you decide to travel by train – and especially if you are travelling with other people – we would recommend that travel with a “Bayernticket” (Bavaria Ticket). This ticket for train travel within the state of Bavaria usually allows you to save some money compared to regular prices.

Accommodation in Regensburg:  If you are staying a night in Regensburg, you’ll have a number of great accommodations to choose from. To get started, you can check here for accommodations and hotels in Regensburg .

When we visited the city, we stayed at the Holiday Inn Express – Regensburg and really liked it. It’s a newer hotel and it really shows. The breakfast was excellent and there is even an onsite parking garage if you are travelling with a car. It’s not in the Old Town or near the river – but we did walk there one day and it only took about 15 minutes.

If you are travelling by train and you are on-foot, then check out the Altstadthotel Am Pach . This simple hotel is located right in the heart of the old town so you’re close to everything there is to see and do in Regensburg – including the beautiful Danube River. They also have breakfast included.

Must-see Attractions in Regensburg:

• Old Stone Bridge
• St Peter Cathedral

We are currently still working on our Regensburg Guide – but we’ll link it here once it is published.

Day 3: Nuremberg

On the third day of this 5 day Southern Germany itinerary you’ll drive – or take the train – from Regensburg to Nuremberg. Nuremberg is a medium sized city in a part of Bavaria called Franconia. If you pay attention, you might notice that the dialect spoken here is quite different from that spoken in Munich and other places farther south.

Lisa actually grew up in this part of Germany so she has been to Nuremberg many, many times. Last year we also went to explore the city together and had a great time. Travellers from abroad mainly know the city for the Nuremberg Trials which took place there after World War II. You can certainly learn alot of history in this German city!

Since Nuremberg is quite close to Regensburg the drive won’t be long – giving you slightly more time to explore the city.

The journey takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes by car and between 1-2 hours by train depending on which train you take (some stop more often than others). Once again, a regional ticket – such as the Bavaria Ticket – will probably save you some money if you travel with more people.

Accommodation in Nuremberg : Since Nuremberg is a very popular city to visit in Germany, there are many, many places to stay scattered throughout the city centre and around it. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Nuremberg .

When we visited, we stayed at Five Reasons Hotel and Hostel and we really liked it. Located just inside the medieval city walls, we were really close to the train station and yet also steps from top attractions like the Germanisches Nationalmuseum. The place was bright and great value for the price which we liked a lot.

Close to Five Reasons, we had friends stay at the Sheraton Carlton Nuremberg and they loved it. We actually saw it with our own eyes – it had a pool with views of the city among other perks. There’s also a parking lot right across from the hotel if you’re coming to Nuremberg by car. It’s walking distance to the old centre and the central train station so best of all worlds!

Must-see Attractions in Nuremberg:

• Imperial Castle of Nuremberg (Kaiserburg)
• Documentation Center + Nazi Party Rally Grounds
• Albrecht Dürer’s House

As is the case with Regensburg, we are also still working on our article for Nuremberg. Once it’s live, we’ll link it here.

Day 4: Stuttgart

Stuttgart is the capital of the German state called Baden-Württemberg and the only place on this itinerary that is not located in Bavaria. The city is mainly known for being a “car hub” since both Mercedes-Benz and Porsche have their headquarters there. There are also museums dedicated to both car brands.

Stuttgart is a bit smaller than Munich but there is still a lot to see. In fact, one day won’t be enough to see the whole city – but it’ll allow you to get a good first impression. Next to the car museums, you could visit some of the many green spaces and/or old buildings that the city has to offer.

Driving from Nuremberg to Stuttgart by car will take you approximately 2 hours 15 minutes. If you have the time, you could even take a small detour and stop in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, known for its picturesque Old Town.

By train , the journey from Nuremberg to Stuttgart will take between 2 hrs 10 minutes and 2 hrs 30 minutes – depending on the type of train you are taking. Try to book your ticket in advance if possible as this can save you some money.

Accommodation in Stuttgart: There are many places to stay in Stuttgart – especially in the city centre. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Stuttgart .

If you’re travelling to Stuttgart with a car, check out the Abalon Hotel ideal . Located very much in the city centre, this popular hotel has an underground parking garage and offers a good breakfast selection.

If you’re travelling to Stuttgart by train, you can check out the Pension am Heusteig . This guesthouse-style accommodation doesn’t have parking but offers a great breakfast and is a doable walk or metro ride from the train station. Funny enough, these two accommodations are very close to one another!

Must-see Attractions in Stuttgart:

• Schlossplatz
• Mercedes-Benz Museum
• Staatsgalerie Stuttgart

Day 5: Munich

On the last day of your trip you’ll make your way back to Munich since it is usually easier to leave Germany through the Munich airport than smaller airports in the surrounding area.

However, if you don’t have to get to an airport – and/or are taking the train home – you could also stay an extra night in Stuttgart if you wanted. Both cities are worth spending an extra few hours in – so you really just have to see what works best for you.

If you decide to get back to Munich, then the journey from Stuttgart to Munich will take approximately 2 hours 20 minutes by car and just slightly less (2 hrs 15 minutes) by train .

Accommodation in Munich : We already went over accommodations in Munich in Day 1 of this itinerary. So, you can head back up for the full details – but we would highly, highly recommend the H2 Hotel München Olympiapark as great value for money with great breakfast, parking, and a metro stop outside the front door.

Don’t forget we also have our detailed guide on where to stay in Munich if you want to have a deeper look at accommodations in the city.

We also have a post on spending one day in Munich if you want more details about the city!

Germany Itinerary 7 Days

If you have slightly more time to explore Germany, we have also created two 7 day Germany itineraries for you. Similar to the 5 day itineraries, we made two different itineraries since it’s pretty much impossible to see the whole country in just a week.

Instead of a northern and southern itinerary, this time we have focused on the western and eastern parts of the country. But please don’t read too much into that description – we use the terms quite loosely. As always, you’re welcome to modify any part of the itinerary to make it better fit your schedule/interests.

Germany Travel Itinerary 7 Days – West

For this itinerary, the total driving time would be around 14 – 15 hours and the distance would be slightly over 1100 km . For these calculations, we included the day trip to Monschau (and back to Cologne) as well as the day trip to Freiburg im Breisgau (and back to Stuttgart), which would be a longer day trip anyway.

So, depending on which day trips you decide to add on to (or remove from) this itinerary, your driving time and distance could be noticeably different than the estimates given above!

Day 1: Cologne Day 2: Day Trip to Monschau/Aachen Day 3: Koblenz Day 4: Frankfurt Day 5: Heidelberg Day 6: Stuttgart Day 7: Stuttgart / Day Trip to Freiburg im Breisgau

Day 1: Cologne

As we have already explained above, we like to start these itineraries in bigger cities to make it easier for people from overseas to get to Germany and start their adventure without hassle. Cologne is Germany’s fourth-biggest city (by population) and has two pretty good airports (Airport “Köln Bonn” and Airport “Düsseldorf”) close by for those coming from far away.

If you want to rent a car for this itinerary, it should be pretty easy to get one in Cologne since it’s quite an international city with lots of visitors.

— Compare prices from rental car companies in Cologne here

Cologne is a pretty spread-out city so you won’t be able to see the whole city in a day or two. However, the highlight of the city is certainly the Cologne Cathedral which is located right next to the central station and the Rhine River.

Make sure to plan some time to visit this impressive building – we always spend much longer in there than we originally plan. It’s free to enter so it can get very crowded depending on the day and time you’re visiting.

Accommodation in Cologne : Cologne is a very big city with multiple areas to stay in. As such, there are lots of accommodation options across the city. Wherever you book, remember to book your accommodation for two nights since you will go on a day trip and then return to Cologne on the second day. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Cologne .

We have stayed in the Lindner Hotel City Plaza and loved it. The floors all have themes (we got Cologne Zoo with animals), the breakfast buffet is absolutely fantastic, and it’s a short walk to the Cathedral along one main street. There’s also parking available at/near the hotel for those with a car.

If you want to stay more in the heart of the city centre, check out something like the CityClass Hotel Residence am Dom . It’s popular, centrally located with shops and restaurants around, and only a short walk to the train station.

If you are looking for a hostel in Cologne, Eric once stayed at Cologne Downtown Hostel and it was honestly excellent. There’s a grocery store right below it and it’s located in the city centre. It also has a large balcony to enjoy the sunshine from!

Must-see Attractions in Cologne:

• Cologne Cathedral
• Cologne Chocolate Museum

Day 2: Day Trip to Monschau/Aachen

On the second day of this Germany itinerary, you have a few different option: you can either spend another day in Cologne if you feel like you haven’t seen enough of the city yet or take a day trip to Monschau or Aachen. Both of these are two places not too far from Cologne.

Monschau is a popular day trip in the area mainly because of its picturesque buildings in the old town. In fact, you probably have already seen photos of it on social media. To get to Monschau from Cologne, you can either drive or take a combination of trains and buses.

Getting to Monschau takes around 1 hr 40 minutes by car and approx. 2 hours by public transport . To visit Monschau by public transport, you can take the regional train from Cologne to Aachen-Rothe Erde and then take Bus #66 from there to Monschau.

Must-see Attractions in Monschau:

• Monschau Castle

If you want to go on a day trip but don’t want to venture that far, then Aachen would be another great option. This city is actually Germany’s most western city very close to the borders of The Netherlands and Belgium.

We’ve lived close to Aachen for a while and have written a whole guide full of things to do in Aachen that you should read if you want more information. In our opinion, one day is the perfect amount of time to explore the city since it doesn’t have that many attractions and the old town in the city centre is quite compact (but still very pretty).

Getting from Cologne to Aachen is also very easy. It takes approx. 1 hr 20 minutes by car and just around 50 minutes by regional train . You should look into getting a “Schönes Tag Ticket NRW” for the day if you’re travelling with more people as this can save you some money.

Must-see Attractions in Aachen:

• Aachen Cathedral
• Elisenbrunnen

Day 3: Koblenz

From Cologne, your journey continues to Koblenz – another city on the Rhine River. Koblenz is a smaller German city with a population of slightly over 110,000 inhabitants.

There are quite a few castles and nice hikes in the area which are easy to reach from Koblenz – just in case you decide that you don’t want to spend the day in the city. Depending on the time of year, you could also look into booking a boat tour on the Rhine river. This way, you get a unique perspective of the beautiful region.

Getting from Cologne to Koblenz is pretty easy and will take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car and between 50 minutes and 1 hr 10 minutes by train . We really like this train journey since the tracks follow the river for a majority of the trip. As a result, you get some really nice views – and might even spot some of the beautiful castles in the area!

Accommodation in Koblenz: Koblenz is certainly not a huge city – but you’ll still find a good number of places to stay for a night or two. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Koblenz .

For a hotel right in the city centre, check out the Sander Hotel . This lovely hotel is super popular and close to shops and the rivers. If you are arriving to Koblenz by car, there is onsite parking at the hotel. However, since the city is smaller you can also easily reach the hotel by walking from the central train station.

Must-see Attractions in Koblenz:

• Deutsches Eck
• Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
• Koblenz Cable Car

Day 4: Frankfurt

The next stop on your itinerary is Frankfurt, arguably one of the country’s most popular transport hubs due to the busy Frankfurt airport. Frankfurt is an interesting city that divided people: some people really enjoy it while other people don’t like it at all. To be fair, we haven’t spent enough time in the city to really solidify our opinion.

Either way, we do believe that Frankfurt is a stop that you shouldn’t miss if you are trying to get to know different areas of Germany. Known as the financial hub of Germany, this city with its many skyscrapers can feel quite a bit more modern than other German cities. However, the city also has a beautiful, historical market square that you should visit.

The journey from Koblenz to Frankfurt is another easy one – and if you are taking the train (we would recommend that!), you’ll once again follow the Rhine River for big parts of the journey and be rewarded with some great views.

The train ride will probably be between 1 hr 25 minutes and 2 hrs 12 minutes long – depending on the connection you choose. By car , the trip will take around 1 hr 30 minutes . Of course, this can vary depending on traffic.

Accommodation in Frankfurt : There are loads of places to stay in Frankfurt given its popularity and size. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Frankfurt .

A great option in Frankfurt is the Motel One Frankfurt-Römer . Located very much in the heart of the city centre close to the old town and river, this cool hotel has underground parking if you are arriving to Frankfurt by/with a car. It also serves up a great breakfast!

If you are arriving by train to Frankfurt, you should check out Fleming’s Express Hotel Frankfurt . Located literally right beside the central station (which is in the city centre), this upscale hotel is very popular because it’s very affordable and also has a great breakfast.

Must-see Attractions in Frankfurt:

• Palmengarten

Day 5: Heidelberg

After your day in Frankfurt, you’re heading to Heidelberg which is actually one of our favourite German cities. The highlight of the city is certainly the castle on top of the hill which is visible from many different parts of the city.

Heidelberg is smaller than Frankfurt so you can see quite a bit in just 24 hours. The Old Town is beautiful and lots of attractions are located there. Our highlight was probably the tower climb of the Church of the Holy Spirit. From up there, you get a beautiful view of the Old Town. A very close second was the cable car ride up to the Königstuhl which was lots of fun – even in the rain.

Getting from Frankfurt to Heidelberg won’t take too long. The journey will be approximately one hour by car and between 45 minutes and 1 hr 30 minutes by train – depending on which type of train you are taking.

Accommodation in Heidelberg: If you’re heading for Heidelberg (good choice), there are lots of great places to stay. You can check here for hotels and accommodations in Heidelberg .

We stayed a little outside the old town – but close to the train station – at NinetyNine Heidelberg City . This hotel was really, really great. The beds were comfy and the decor has animals everywhere – you have to see it to understand!

There’s onsite parking (paid) and street parking (free, but not guaranteed) if you are travelling with a car. There’s also a tram stop right outside the hotel to get directly into the city centre in minutes.

If you are looking to stay in the historic old town, then check out colourful hotels like  Hotel Holländer Hof  which overlooks the river or Hotel Zum Ritter St.Georg which is literally overlooking the main Marktplatz.

Must-see Attractions in Heidelberg:

• Heidelberg Palace
• Church of the Holy Spirit (mainly tower climb)

If you want to learn some more about Heidelberg and what there is to do, you can read our detailed Heidelberg Guide here .

Day 6: Stuttgart

The next day you will drive to Stuttgart, a city that we’ve already mentioned in one of our Germany itineraries for 5 days. As we have already mentioned, you’ll probably really enjoy Stuttgart if you are interested in cars.

Even if you aren’t, there is still lots for you to explore. Did you know that wine also plays a huge role in Stuttgart and the surrounding region? If this is something that interests you and you’re there in the summer (specifically around the end of August), then you should stop by the “Stuttgarter Weindorf” (“wine village”) – but obviously, please don’t drink and drive.

As for getting from Heidelberg to Stuttgart, the journey will take you approximately 1 hr 20 minutes by car and between 40 minutes and 1 hr 30 minutes by train . As mentioned before, the time differs depending on the type of train you are choosing.

Accommodation in Stuttgart: Stuttgart has many places to stay so you can check here for accommodations and hotels in Stuttgart .

Be sure to see the Abalon Hotel ideal if you have a car. This hotel has underground parking available and a tasty breakfast. It’s also in the city centre which makes sightseeing easy.

Those coming to Stuttgart by train should look at the Pension am Heusteig . It’s a guesthouse that is located not too far from the first hotel here and it’s a doable walk or metro ride from the central station.

Day 7: Stuttgart / Day Trip to Freiburg im Breisgau

For this itinerary, you can decide how you would like to spend your last day. You could either spend another day to explore more of Stuttgart (and maybe relax for a bit) or you could head farther south and spend a day in Freiburg im Breisgau. We really enjoyed spending time in this small city in the south of Germany during our visit.

We are currently still in the process of writing our Freiburg guide, but we’ll link it here once it’s done. However, a good way to start your exploration of the city is by wandering the old town.

In Freiburg, you’ll find that many of the cobblestoney streets have small water-filled runnels – called Bächle – running alongside it. Sometimes they even have small yellow ducks in them!

The journey from Stuttgart to Freiburg im Breisgau is slightly longer than most other parts of this itinerary. It takes approximately 2 hrs 30 minutes by car and around 2 hours by train . Since this train journey will probably include at least one ICE (the fast train), we’d recommend that you book your train tickets early if you can to save some money.

Must-see Attractions in Freiburg:

• Freiburger Münster (Cathedral)
• Schlossberg + Tower
• New + Old Town Hall

Germany Travel Itinerary 7 Days – East

If the other week-long Germany itinerary doesn’t interest you and/or you really want to visit the German capital Berlin, then you might prefer this eastern route instead.

The driving time would be just slightly over 10 hours and would be approximately 900 km driving distance – including the day trip to Potsdam (which would honestly be easier with public transport, though)!

Day 1: Berlin Day 2: Berlin / Day Trip to Potsdam Day 3: Dresden Day 4: Erfurt Day 5: Bamberg Day 6+7: Munich

Day 1: Berlin

Once again, this itinerary begins in Berlin since it is one of the big cities that is easier to get to for people coming from overseas. Similar to the five day itinerary that started in Berlin, you’ll stay two nights in the German capital. There is just too much to see to spend only one day – and even in two days you wouldn’t be able to explore everything.

In case you’ve already been to Berlin on a different trip and/or aren’t a huge fan of big cities, we also give you the option of a day trip to Potsdam (a city close by) on the second day. More on that below.

Accommodation in Berlin : Finding a place to stay in Berlin can be tough because there are just so many options. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Berlin .

If you have a car, check out Park Plaza Wallstreet Berlin Mitte . Located right in the middle of the city close to Museum Island, this hotel has a great breakfast and free parking on the street behind the hotel. Otherwise, parking is paid but for a decent price for the city centre.

Those without a car travelling by train should see the NH Collection Berlin Mitte am Checkpoint Charlie . If you want a hotel close to a top attraction that is easy to get to with public transport, this is definitely one of them!

Across the city, PLUS Berlin is a really good hostel/hotel that Eric stayed at a few years ago. It’s a big place but it was a great stay over by the East Side Gallery (part of the Berlin Wall with the graffiti on it).

As already mentioned above, if you want to read some more about Berlin, check out our articles on Things to do in Berlin and How to spend one day in Berlin .

Day 2: Berlin / Day Trip to Potsdam

On your second day, you can choose between spending another day in Berlin to see more of the German capital or going on a day trip to Potsdam – which is a smaller city not far from Berlin.

Potsdam is actually the capital city of the German state called Brandenburg. It’s most popular attraction is probably Sanssouci Palace with the beautiful Sanssouci Park surrounding it.

During our visit, we also enjoyed walking through the Dutch Quarter with its small shops and cafes. Since the city isn’t too big, one day gives you a chance to get a good impression and check out some of the more popular sights.

It is also very easy to get to Potsdam from Berlin. If you decide to drive , it’ll take you approx. 40 minutes , but it could be longer – traffic depending. We would honestly recommend that you do this day trip by taking public transport. This way, you don’t have to worry about traffic and/or finding a parking spot.

For trains, you can take the S-Train #7 (S7) from Berlin Central Station (as well as other train stations) straight to Potsdam Central Station. The journey will take around 35 minutes with trains running very frequently throughout the day.

Must-see Attractions in Potsdam:

• Sanssouci Palace
• Dutch Quarter
• Cecilienhof

Day 3: Dresden

The third day of this Germany itinerary will take you from Berlin to Dresden which is a German city close to the Czech border. To be honest, we haven’t spend that much time in Dresden yet – and it’s certainly on our list of places to visit this year.

One of the city’s main attractions – the Zwinger – is known across the country and a sight that you shouldn’t miss during your visit. It’s a beautiful palace built in a baroque style.

Fun fact: When Lisa was a kid, she didn’t actually know that the “Zwinger” was a palace. Since that word can also mean “dog kennel” in German, she was always confused as to why people would want to visit it during their time in Dresden!

As for getting from Berlin to Dresden, the drive will take you around 2 hrs 10 minutes by car  and  around 2 – 3 hours by train.  Once again, this depends on which connection you choose.

Accommodation in Dresden:  There are a number of accommodations in the compact “Innere Altstadt” close to the River Elbe for you to choose from. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Dresden .

For a great hotel option right in the old town, look no further than the Star Inn Hotel Premium Dresden im Haus Altmarkt . You’re a short walk to the train station, the river, and all the best old sights in Dresden if you stay here and arrive by train. If you come to Dresden by car, the hotel has discounted underground parking available.

Another option right in the old town (and even closer to the river) is Aparthotel am Schloss . Since this is an apartment-style hotel, it’s a great option if you are looking for more of a base to relax in a “home away from home”. It’s a very popular choice, too – and also has onsite parking.

Must-see Attractions in Dresden:

• Frauenkirche

Day 4: Erfurt

Erfurt is a popular city to visit in the middle of Germany – and it’s also the capital city of the German state Thuringia. We’ve spent some time in Erfurt a few months ago and instantly fell in love with the city. Its size is perfect (in our opinion) – giving you enough things to do without feeling overwhelming.

Maybe you’ve seen photos of one of the city’s most popular attractions, the Krämerbrücke. This bridge is not only pretty to look at and photograph, it’s also unique in the sense that there are buildings on the bridge and when you’re walking on it, you can’t actually see the water running below.

Visiting the bridge and climbing the tower of the Ägidienkirche, a church at one end of the bridge, is something we’d certainly recommend during your time in the city. We actually filmed a short video of our time exploring Erfurt. If you are interested in seeing what parts of the city look like, then you can find our video here .

Getting to Erfurt from Dresden won’t take you too long. It will take approx. 2 hours 20 minutes by car  and between 2 and slightly over 3 hours by train .

Accommodation in Erfurt:  Since Erfurt isn’t a huge city, there aren’t a ton of accommodations – but certainly more than enough to find one that works for your style and budget. You can check here for hotels and accommodations in Erfurt .

We stayed at  Gästehaus in der Gotthardtstraße  and really liked our stay. It’s located in a quiet neighbourhood just north of the city centre – a short walk to the Krämerbrücke. The host was lovely, the room was cozy, and there was secure onsite parking for those driving to Erfurt.

If you want to stay RIGHT in the city centre then you should check out  Hotel Krämerbrücke Erfurt which is right beside the famous bridge. This might be a good place to stay if you are travelling to Erfurt by train and you’re on-foot.

Must-see Attractions in Erfurt:

• Krämerbrücke
• Erfurt Cathedral
• Citadel Petersberg

For more details, have a look at our Things to do in Erfurt article .

Day 5: Bamberg

Bamberg is a small city – or larger town – in the German state called Bavaria. It’s actually located in a region called Franconia, which is noticeably different from the Bavaria that you might know in the area surrounding Munich, etc.

We’ve been to Bamberg multiple times over the years (it’s also close to the part of Germany where Lisa grew up) and are always happy to come back. Bamberg is known for its cute, historic old town which is actually a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the most popular buildings the city has to offer is the Old Town Hall (shown above) which is built on an artificial island. The story behind it is quite interesting.

The drive from Erfurt to Bamberg is doable and will take approx. 2 hrs by car and around 3 hrs by train . On the way, you’ll drive through quite a few tunnels since you’ll drive through an area known as “Thuringian Forest”.

Accommodation in Bamberg: Bamberg is a small place to visit so there aren’t a ton of options but still enough to find what you’re looking for. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Bamberg .

Anywhere you stay is basically in or close to the old town/city centre. For a place to stay with parking (for those arriving by car), check out Welcome Hotel Residenzschloss Bamberg . It’s located right on the river.

You might also want to see Palais Schrottenberg  to stay right in the middle of the Old Town! For reference, the train station is a short walk to the north of the river – not far from these places in the centre.

Must-see Attractions in Bamberg:

• Bamberg Cathedral
• Old Town Hall
• Alte Hofhaltung

If you want some more information about Bamberg, please read our detailed Bamberg, Germany Guide .

Day 6+7: Munich

From Bamberg, your journey will continue to Munich which will be the last stop on this 7 day eastern itinerary. Not only is this the third biggest city of the country, it is also one of the most internationally known destinations in Germany.

Whenever we come back to Munich, we always enjoy our time there. For some reason, the atmosphere always feels more laid back than in other big German cities and the people are usually quite friendly. We might also be a little bit biased, though, since Lisa grew up in this part of the country and is more used to the mentality, dialect etc. than in other parts of Germany.

For this itinerary, you’ll spend two days in Munich since there is quite a lot to see. Next to the obvious attractions like the Marienplatz with the New Town Hall and the Frauenkirche close by, there are also lots of museums and other things that you can explore.

If you’ve already been to Munich before and/or decide that one day in the city is enough for you, you could also opt for a day trip on one of these days. We’ve just recently written a whole Day Trips from Munich Guide , which you can browse through to get some inspiration!

Driving from Bamberg to Munich will take about 2 hrs 20 minutes by car and between 2 and 3 hrs by train . If you decide to only take regional trains instead of the ICE (fast train), you should look into getting the Bayernticket. This can save you some money, especially when you’re travelling with more people.

Accommodation in Munich:  Since Munich is so large and popular to visit, there is definitely no shortage of places to stay! You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Munich .

That said, we loved our stay at H2 Hotel München Olympiapark . Located up by the famous Olympic Park, we’d highly recommend it since it was amazing value for money. The breakfast was huge and delicious and there’s a metro station outside the lobby door that takes you into the heart of the old town in minutes. There’s also parking if you are arriving by car.

For a hotel that is a little more central, you should see the Platzl Hotel Superior this hotel is really popular – and for good reason. It’s located around the corner from attractions like Marienplatz and the famous beer hall, Hofbräuhaus.

For more help looking into accommodations and neighbourhoods in Munich, check out our where to stay in Munich guide .

(Check out our guide to one day in Munich if you want more details on things to do and see.)

Germany Itinerary 10 Days

Although we have tried to create short itineraries that allow you to see more than just the standard cities, it is no doubt easier to see more of Germany if you are able to travel for longer than one week. To give you a couple different options that you could look at (and then potentially modify), we have created two 10-day Germany itineraries.

Once again, we believe that ten days would not be enough time to see the whole country – and even if you managed to do that it would be too stressful (in our opinion). Both of the following itineraries give you a good mix of bigger and smaller cities as well as a few interesting day trips. So, have a look and see which one you like better!

Germany Itinerary 10 Days – North

If you’re interested in seeing more of the northern part of Germany and experiencing the mentality and way of life of people in the flatter part of the country, closer to the sea, then have a look at the following 10-day itinerary!

The total driving time would be slightly less than 17 hours with a distance of approx. 1470 kilometres. For these calculations, we have included the day trips to Schloss Drachenburg, Lübeck, and Flensburg. So, if you decide to skip any of these, your driving time and distance would obviously be slightly lower.

Day 1: Frankfurt Day 2: Bonn Day 3: Day Trip to Schloss Drachenburg / Cologne Day 4: Münster Day 5: Hanover Day 6: Hamburg Day 7: Day Trip to Lübeck Day 8: Day Trip to Flensburg Day 9+10: Berlin

Day 1: Frankfurt

Similar to some of the other itineraries mentioned in this article, we start this 10-day itinerary in Frankfurt. By now you should probably already know why – Frankfurt has the biggest airport of the country which should make it easier for people coming from overseas to get to Germany and start their adventure.

Furthermore, Frankfurt is quite centrally located so it is easy to get to many different cities from here. So even if you decide against following our itineraries step-by-step, Frankfurt would be a good starting point!

— Compare prices from rental car companies in Frankfurt here

Accommodation in Frankfurt : You’ll find plenty of places to stay in Frankfurt. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Frankfurt .

One really popular hotel in Frankfurt is the Motel One Frankfurt-Römer . This Motel One is near the river and walking distance to lots of things in the city centre. If you are coming to Frankfurt with a car, Motel One has underground parking which can make life easy! They also have a nice breakfast.

A hotel option closer to the train station is Fleming’s Express Hotel Frankfurt . This hotel is just to the north of the main station which makes it a great option if you are arriving by train and have no car. It’s popular because it has a great breakfast and is good value for money.

Day 2: Bonn

On the second day, you’ll head from Frankfurt to Bonn. As you might know, Bonn used to be the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany during the time that Germany was split into two countries. Later, the capital was relocated from Bonn to Berlin.

If you are interested in learning more about the history of Germany during your time in the country, then Bonn would be a good city to do that in. For example, you could visit the so-called “Haus der Geschichte” which is a museum about the history of the Federal Republic of Germany.

It won’t be difficult to get from Frankfurt to Bonn since the two cities are not too far apart. The journey will take approximately 1 hr 50 minutes by car and between 1 hr 20 minutes and 2 hrs if you take the train . Once again, we’d recommend that you book your train ticket in advance if possible.

Accommodation in Bonn: There are a number of accommodation options in Bonn which you can choose from – many are right in the city centre/old town. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Bonn .

Keep in mind to book your accommodation for two nights for this itinerary. (You could also spend the following night in Cologne if you day tripped to there, though).

For a great hotel in the heart of the old town, check out BrauHotel Bonn . You can easily walk here from the central train station but they also have a and parking garage close by if you arrive by car. There’s also a craft beer bar on the ground floor!

Another option is the Hilton Bonn . This hotel offers you amazing views of the Rhine River. It’s a bit north of the city centre but still very much close to it. There is parking but it can be expensive so keep that in mind when you book.

Must-see Attractions in Bonn:

• Bonn Minster
• House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany (Haus der Geschichte)

Day 3: Day Trip to Schloss Drachenburg / Cologne

On day three of this itinerary, you can choose to stay in Bonn, or go on one of two day trips: to Schloss Drachenburg (a castle not far from Bonn) or to Cologne which is also close by.

Schloss Drachenburg is actually a private villa/mansion that was built to look like a castle in the 19th century. Today, it is a popular attraction in the area.

From Bonn, you can either drive to Königswinter by car (and then leave your car at the car park) or take public transport to the Königswinter/Clemens-August-Straße station. You can find more information about that and opening hours etc. on the offical website .

If you are not a huge fan of castles, then you might opt for a day trip to Cologne instead. In this case, you might even decide to change your base and spend the night in Cologne instead of returning to Bonn at the end of the day. That is definitely an option that you can choose since there are lots of accommodation options in Cologne as well.

Getting to Cologne from Bonn will take you around 40 minutes by car (this can obviously depend on traffic) and only approx. 25 minutes by train . Just a quick warning: Trains can get very full if you are travelling during rush hour traffic – so try to avoid that if you don’t like being surrounded by lots of people in a small space.

Day 4: Münster

The next day you’ll head from Bonn – or Cologne – to Münster. Since Bonn and Cologne are so close, the journey wouldn’t really differ much from either city.

Münster is a smaller German city that we really enjoy. To be honest, it sometimes reminds Lisa of Copenhagen – mainly because of the many bikes that you can see all around the city. The University of Münster plays a big role in the city and the vibe – depending on which part of the city you are in – is noticeably younger.

One of the highlights of the city – for locals and visitors alike – is the lake Aasee which is located quite centrally. When the weather is nice, there are always people sitting on the grass enjoying the sun and maybe even out on the water (depending on the time of year). You can rent a small paddle boat to explore the lake from a unique perspective.

The journey from Bonn to Münster should take you slightly less than 2 hrs by car and between 2 hrs and slightly more than 3 hrs by train . If you want to save some money and are travelling with other people, then you should look into getting an “NRW Schönes Tag Ticket”. With this ticket, you wouldn’t be allowed to travel on ICE’s (the fast train), but the connections using only regional trains wouldn’t be much longer.

Accommodation in Münster: Münster might feel small but it’s actually pretty spread out and offers accommodations for all styles and budgets. You can  check here for accommodations and hotels in Münster .

If you want a popular hotel option right in the centre, the  H4 Hotel Münster  is a short walk to the heart of the historic centre. It also has onsite parking for those travelling to Münster by car – but you can easily walk there from the train station in the south of the city centre.

Must-see Attractions in Münster:

• Münster Prinzipalmarkt
• Historic Town Hall
• Münster Cathedral

For a more detailed guide, have a look at our Things to do in Münster, Germany article .

Day 5: Hanover

The following day you are travelling from Münster to Hanover. In German “Hannover” is actually written with two “n”, so don’t be surprised if you see it being written slightly differently.

Hanover is the biggest city and the capital of the German state called Lower Saxony. Compared to some other cities on this itinerary it is a less popular tourist destination. To be fair, even we haven’t spent that much time in Hanover yet. Hopefully we’ll be able to change that soon. However, that’s not to say that Hanover is not worth a visit.

Not only can you explore some beautiful gardens and interesting museums in the city, but it is also located pretty much halfway between Münster and Hamburg. That makes it a great stop to break up the journey and spent another day in a city that allows you to explore without too many other (international) tourists around.

By car , the journey from Münster to Hanover will take you around 2 hrs . If you choose to travel by train instead, it will take you approximately the same amount of time .

Accommodation in Hanover: Hanover is a larger city but the accommodation are still relatively packed together in and around the historic city centre. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Hanover .

For a stay right in the city centre, check out the Hotel Loccumer Hof . This popular hotel is a very short walk from the central station which is perfect if you are arriving to Hanover by train. That said, they also have parking onsite so this hotel works well if you arrive by car!

For another hotel option, check out the Arthotel ANA Prestige am neuen Rathaus . This boutique hotel is directly across from the beautiful New Town Hall in the south end of the city centre by the greenspace and water! They also have a really nice breakfast and parking available.

Must-see Attractions in Hanover:

• New Town Hall
• Marktkirche
• Herrenhausen Gardens

Day 6: Hamburg

On day six of this 10-day itinerary you’re on your way to Hamburg. If you’ve read the details of any of the shorter itineraries in this article, you’ll know that we really like Hamburg.

The city offers modern areas, such as “HafenCity”, mixed with historic (e.g. “Speicherstadt”) and alternative areas (“Sternschanze”) . This makes exploring the city all the more interesting – there is truly something for everyone. During your time in the city, we’d also recommend that you climb the tower of the St. Michael’s Church. From up there, you get a beautiful view of most parts of the city.

The journey from Hanover to Hamburg won’t be long. Depending on the route you are taking (Highway A7 or A1), it’ll take between 1 hr 30 minutes and 2 hrs by car . If you opt for the train , you can expect the journey to take between 1 hr 15 minutes and 1 hr 30 minutes . This depends on the connection you choose.

Accommodation in Hamburg : Hamburg has many, many places to stay. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Hamburg .

The Mövenpick Hotel Hamburg might be a good option if you have a car while you travel around Germany. This cool hotel is inside an old water tower which gives guests stunning views of the city around. There’s also parking onsite and it’s close to a transit stop for getting around the city.

Located not too far from the central train station, ARCOTEL Rubin Hamburg makes for a good hotel option if you don’t have a car. It’s located in St. Georg which is a lively area within walking distance of the city centre.

Those that need hostel for their stay in Hamburg might be happy with Generator Hamburg . It’s a popular hostel in the city and is close to the train station for easy getting around. If you’re unsure about where to stay, you can always check out our detailed guide on where to stay in Hamburg .

Once again, if you’d like to read our (very) short Hamburg guide, you can find our Things to do in Hamburg article here .

Day 7: Day Trip to Lübeck

For the next couple of days, we decided to include some day trips from Hamburg. This allows you to stay in one accommodation for longer than just one night and gives you the option to see some more of Hamburg as well. If you don’t want to visit any other cities and want to spend more time in Hamburg instead, then feel free to skip one or both of the day trips mentioned.

Lübeck is the closer one of the two day trips mentioned from Hamburg. Within Germany the city is mainly known for its delicious “Lübecker Marzipan” (Lübeck Marzipan) – but of course there is much more to the city than just that. One of the highlights is the Holsentor, a red-brick city gate dating back to the 15th century.

The journey from Hamburg to Lübeck will take you slightly over 1 hr by car and just around 45 minutes by train . In our opinion, that’s great for a day trip since it gives you lots of time to actually see the city instead of spending a lot of time in the car/on the train.

Must-see Attractions in Lübeck:

• Marienkirche
• Heilig-Geist-Hospital

Day 8: Day Trip to Flensburg

For the following day, we have another day trip option for you. The journey to Flensburg is slightly longer than to Lübeck – but it would be worth it. Flensburg is a smaller German city in the north of Germany, very close to the Danish border.

Since it is located close to the water, shipping plays an important role in the city to this day. If you’re interested in learning more about that, then the Maritime Museum would be a good place for you to visit.

Another thing we would recommend is a walk along the Rote Straße. Here you’ll find different “Hinterhöfe” (similar to backyards) with cute cafes and small shops.

Getting to Flensburg from Hamburg should take slightly less than 2 hrs by car and the same amount of time by train . As already mentioned, it would be a longer journey than to Lübeck, but if you want to experience a smaller, maritime city, the trip would be worth it!

Must-see Attractions in Flensburg:

• Historischer Hafen (Historic Harbour)
• Flensburger Schifffahrtmuseum (Maritime museum)
• Museumsberg Flensburg

Day 9+10: Berlin

On the second to last day of this itinerary, you’ll head from Hamburg to Berlin where your journey ends. This allows you to spend two days in the German capital. Since there is so much to do in Berlin, we’d recommend that you do some research beforehand to narrow down which attractions you’d like to visit.

If you’ve never been to Berlin before classics like the Brandeburg Gate and the Reichstag would be a good place to start. We’ve written a few different articles about Berlin – one about classic attractions (link below). Maybe these will be a good starting point to gather some more information!

The drive from Hamburg to Berlin will be one of the longest mentioned as part of this itinerary – so you should keep that in mind. It’ll take approximately 3 hrs 20 minutes by car (with traffic it could be longer), but just 1 hr 50 minutes by train .

It’s a popular train route since it connects the two biggest German cities so trains run frequently throughout the day. Once again, we’d recommend to book your train ticket in advance to get one of the discount tickets and save some money.

Accommodation in Berlin : As the capital city, there are lots of accommodation options for Berlin. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Berlin .

Those travelling to Berlin with a car should look into the Park Plaza Wallstreet Berlin Mitte for a hotel in the city centre with free street parking available. There’s always paid parking for a reasonable fee if those are full and you’ll be close to top attractions.

The NH Collection Berlin Mitte am Checkpoint Charlie is a popular hotel option for those coming to Berlin by train since it’s close to attractions in the city centre and you can get there very easily with the metro.

Finally, if you need a hostel/hotel, check out PLUS Berlin . This is where Eric stayed a few years back and really enjoyed it. You’ll be close to the East Side Gallery – the part of the Berlin wall with the artwork on it. It’s also easy to get in and out of the city centre from here.

Also feel free to have a look at our guide on Berlin Attractions and tips for a day in Berlin .

Germany Itinerary 10 Days – South

This 10 day Germany itinerary begins and ends in Frankfurt – so it’s pretty much a small loop through the southern part of the country. If you want to be closer to the mountains (for part of the trip at least) instead of the sea, then this itinerary might be better suited for you than the other 10 day version.

For this itinerary, the total driving time would be slightly over 17 hours with a total distance of approx. 1330 kilometres. This includes the day trips to Neuschwanstein Castle, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and Tübingen. So depending on if/how you modify the itinerary, these estimates could differ.

Day 1: Frankfurt Day 2: Würzburg Day 3: Nuremberg Day 4: Munich Day 5: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle Day 6: Day Trip to Garmisch-Partenkirchen Day 7: Ulm Day 8: Stuttgart Day 9: Day Trip to Tübingen Day 10: Frankfurt

Similar to the northern version of this itinerary for 10 days, you begin your adventure in Frankfurt. During your day in the city, you shouldn’t forget to visit the Römerberg with the beautiful half-timbered houses. If you want to get a nice few of the city from above, then you should look into visiting the Main Tower as well.

Frankfurt is also a great place to pick up your rental car – if you decide to complete this itinerary by car instead of using public transport. You can either pick up a car at the airport or at different spots in the city centre. This obviously also depends on the rental company you choose.

Accommodation in Frankfurt: Frankfurt is full of accommodation options – from the city centre to the airport. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Frankfurt .

For a hotel in the heart of the city, check out the Motel One Frankfurt-Römer . Complete with underground parking, good breakfast, and a top location in the centre and close to the river, this hotel is a decent option if you are travelling around with a car.

For those not travelling with a car (and taking the trains around Germany), check out Fleming’s Express Hotel Frankfurt . This nice looking hotel is really popular for its breakfast, price, and the fact that it’s steps from the central train station.

Day 2: Würzburg

On day two of this itinerary, you’ll be on your way to Würzburg, a small German city that we’re always happy to return to. Similar to Stuttgart, Würzburg is located in a region that is known for its wine.

As such, it comes as no surprise that a highlight in Würzburg is to drink a glass of (white) wine on the Old Bridge across the Main river. We’ve done that multiple times and would especially recommend it during the evening when it gets dark.

Another thing you shouldn’t miss in Würzburg is the short walk up the hill to Marienberg Fortress. Up there you can not only explore the old fortress, but you also get a beautiful view of the old town and other parts of the city.

We actually wrote a whole guide about Würzburg (link below) where we not only talk about things to do but also mention some great cafes and restaurants!

The drive from Frankfurt to Würzburg will be a short one. It should only take you around 1 h 20 minutes by car and between 1 h 07 minutes and 1 hr 50 minutes by train depending on the type of train you’re taking (ICE vs. regional train).

Accommodation in Würzburg: Würzburg isn’t a huge city so you’ll find a number of places to stay packed together in the city centre and a number of other hotels and guesthouses around. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Würzburg .

On a recent trip, we stayed at the  Best Western Hotel Würzburg-Süd . It’s a little south of the city centre but the tram stop is right outside the hotel so you’re into the historic city centre in minutes. There is also an onsite parking lot if you’re arriving to Würzburg by car. We booked this one last minute but we would stay again.

If you want to stay a little more central, then you can check out Hotel Strauss . With a location close to the river, the train station, and the city centre – it’s a great option fo those arriving by train.

We also once stayed at  Hostel Babelfish for a budget accommodation and it was honestly not too bad, either. It’s right across from the train station for easy access in and out of the city.

Must-see Attractions in Würzburg:

• Marienberg Fortress
• Würzburg Residence

If you want more tips for visiting Würzburg, have a look at our detailed Things to do in Würzburg Guide (+ insider tips) .

The next day you’ll be on your way to Nuremberg, which is another city in Bavaria that we really like. In German, Nuremberg is actually written/called “Nürnberg” – just an FYI, so you’re not confused when you see this written somewhere.

As we have already mentioned in the description of one of the shorter itineraries, there is a lot of history to be found in the city. Not only can you explore an old castle in the middle of the city, you can also learn a lot about Germany’s dark history if you’re interested.

Getting from Würzburg to Nuremberg will take approx. 1 hr 20 minutes by car and between 53 minutes (ICE) and 1 hr 13 minutes (regional) by train . If you’re travelling with more people and decide to just take a regional train, look into getting a “Bayernticket” as that could save you some money.

Accommodation in Nuremberg : Nuremberg is a larger and well-travelled city in Germany so you will have no problem finding a place to stay! You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Nuremberg .

We ended up staying in the very popular Five Reasons Hotel and Hostel and we enjoyed our stay. The room was bright with new furnishings. It’s also located just inside the old city walls so we were close to the metro, a short walk to central train station, and also close to the heart of the old town!

Very nearby was the Sheraton Carlton Nuremberg – we had friends stay there. They really liked this hotel which had a swimming pool with city views and other great perks. If you are arriving to Nuremberg by car, there’s a parking lot across the street from the hotel as well as street parking around. The train station is very close as well so it’s a great location overall.

• Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds

Day 4: Munich

On day four of this Germany trip, you’ll be on your way to Munich. As you might know Munich is the capital of the German state called Bavaria and there are lots of things to do in this city.

That’s why you’ll spend three nights in Munich. This way you can explore the city in more detail if you want or go on a couple of day trips from Munich to see other popular attractions as well. It’s really up to you.

The journey from Nuremberg to Munich won’t be overly long and it’s a route Lisa has driven many times. It’ll take you around 2 hrs by car (of course traffic depending) and between 1-3 hrs by train.

Since this is a popular train route, there are lots of different connections of varying length – some are quick and others are slower trains with more stops. Since that’s the case, we’d recommend that you plan in advance and try to catch a better connection to avoid an unnecessarily long train ride!

Accommodation in Munich: Since Munich is such a popular and large city, there are plenty of accommodation options for you to choose from. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Munich . Just remember to book your accommodation for three nights if you are following this itinerary!

We stayed at the H2 Hotel München Olympiapark which is a very popular hotel because of the price and the value. It was a prefect stay. The breakfast was amazing, they had parking, and the location was great – only a quick metro to the heart of the city centre. You also have the Olympic Park and BMW Museum as top attractions nearby!

If you’re itching to stay right in the heart of the action in Munich, check out the Platzl Hotel Superior . This is a hotel around the corner from Marienplatz in the old town with the famous beer hall Hofbräuhaus just steps away. The central train station is also walkable from here.

Of course, you can learn all about the best areas to stay in more detail with our Munich accommodation and neighbourhood guide .

Learn more about Munich with our one day in Munich post!

Day 5: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle probably doesn’t need a lot of introduction – it is arguably one of the most popular day trips from Munich. If you want to see this fairy-tale castle with your own eyes, then this day trip might be for you.

However, it is such a popular attraction that depending on the time of year it can get incredibly crowded. So if you are planning this itinerary for the middle of summer, we’d honestly recommend that you think twice about whether you really want to do this day trip. A second day in Munich wouldn’t be so bad either, would it?

If you are set on visiting Neuschwanstein Castle, then have a look at our Day Trips from Munich Guide . In that article – under the Neuschwanstein Castle section – we talk about all the different ways you can get to the castle.

In case you don’t want to stress too much about logistics and are not travelling with a rental car, you could always look into a day tour that brings you to Neuschwanstein Castle and then back to Munich. Here are some examples:

• Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Palace  – A very popular tour to check out two castles in one day!
• Just Neuschwanstein Castle  – Grab your live guide and check out the classic castle you came to see!
• Neuschwanstein Castle and Füssen   – Explore the surrounding area on this day trip + see that great castle!

Day 6: Day Trip to Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Another popular day trip from Munich – and the one we would recommend for Day 6 of this itinerary – is a trip to Garmisch-Partenkirchen in the south of Bavaria, close to the Austrian border.

We have been to Garmisch-Partenkirchen recently and really enjoyed our day there. However, that was during the shoulder season, so we can’t really say much about how busy it gets in the summer or during the ski-season.

There are a few good reasons for visiting Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The obvious one is that the town is super close to the mountains and it is very easy to reach the “Zugspitze” (Germany’s highest mountain) from here.

Of course, you don’t have to go that high up – there are also lots of other mountains and great hiking trails in the area if you’re looking for a day in nature.

Other reasons why people come to Garmisch-Partenkirchen is to visit the Partnach Gorge which is quite beautiful and/or the old town where you can admire the decorative paintings found on many houses.

It’s actually quite easy to get from Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. By car , it should take you around 1 hr 10 minutes and by train the journey would be approx. 1 hr 22 minutes . It’s actually a nice drive/train ride since you’ll get some great views of the mountains as you get closer to your destination.

Must-see Attractions in/close to Garmisch-Partenkirchen:

• Partnach Gorge

The following day you’ll travel from Munich to Ulm, a small city in the German state of Baden-Württemberg. It is actually located right by the border with Bavaria – “Neu Ulm” in fact is a city on the Bavarian side. When you’re there, it sometimes feels like it is just one bigger city. For you as a visitor, this doesn’t really matter – just an interesting side note.

Ulm is mainly known for having the church with the tallest steeple in the world – so that is something you shouldn’t miss during your visit. Other than that, we’d also recommend that you check out the Fishermen’s Quarter where you can find some beautiful, half-timbered houses.

Getting from Munich to Ulm won’t take you long. The journey will take approx. 1 hr 40 minutes by car and between 1 hr 19 minutes and 2 hrs by train. Once again, this depends on which type of train connection you choose (ICE vs. regional trains).

Accommodation in Ulm: It’s best to stay in the centre of Ulm since it’s not huge and the attractions can mostly be found there. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Ulm .

For a boutique hotel option right in the city centre, check out Boutique 005 Ulm City . This hotel is super walkable to the train station if you are arriving by train but also offers an option for parking. It’s location makes it really close to all the top attractions in the city.

For a stay closer to the river, you can check out the Hotel am Rathaus – Hotel Reblaus . With onsite parking available and a really good breakfast, this more “authentic” hotel is an experience not to be missed in Ulm.

Must-see Attractions in Ulm:

• Ulmer Münster
• Fishermen’s Quarter

Day 8: Stuttgart

From Ulm, you’ll head to Stuttgart on the next day. Stuttgart is a city that we have mentioned a few times in this article already. If you’ve read some of the other itineraries, you’ll know that Stuttgart is known for both cars and wine.

Of course, there’s more to see in the city than that. If you’re interested in architecture, you might enjoy visiting the New Palace at the “Schlossplatz” and if you’re into art, the Staatsgalerie (an art museum) might be for you.

Getting to Stuttgart from Ulm will only take slightly over 1 hr by car and approx. the same amount of time by train . There are slower trains – called RB instead of RE which stands for “Regional Express” – that take longer than that. However, if you plan ahead, you shouldn’t have a problem catching an RE or ICE Train since they run frequently throughout the day.

Accommodation in Stuttgart: Since there are a number of places to stay in, you can check here for accommodations and hotels in Stuttgart .

Those with a car can check out the Abalon Hotel ideal because it has an underground parking garage while those travelling to Stuttgart by train can check out the Pension am Heusteig since it’s easy to get to walking or with the metro.

Day 9: Day Trip to Tübingen

On day 9 of this itinerary, you have the choice between either spending a second day in Stuttgart or taking a day trip to Tübingen, a university town not far away.

Tübingen is a popular day trip from Stuttgart and is mainly known across the country for its old university. In fact, some of Lisa’s friends have studied there. When in town, you shouldn’t forget to visit the market square with its 15th century town hall. Another popular attractions is the Hohentübingen Castle on the hill which nowadays is home to a museum.

It won’t take you long at all to get to Tübingen from Stuttgart. That makes it great for a (half-)day trip. The journey should only take around 42 minutes by car and between 43 minutes and 1 hr 30 minutes by public transport – depending on the connection you choose.

Must-see Attractions in Tübingen:

• Hohentübingen Castle
• Market Square with Town Hall
• Hölderlinturm

Day 10: Frankfurt

On the last day, you’ll make your way back to Frankfurt. This is where your itinerary ends since it will hopefully be easy for you to get back home from here.

The journey from Stuttgart back to Frankfurt will probably be the longest one for this trip – but it’s still easily doable. It should take you approx. 2 hrs 25 minutes by car and between 1 hr 17 minutes and 3 hrs 30 minutes by train. Once again, this is dependent on the connection you choose (ICE vs. regional trains).

Accommodation in Frankfurt: Since you’re back in Frankfurt, we already went over accommodations in Day 1 of this same itinerary. That said, you can check here for accommodations and hotels in Frankfurt and specifically check out the Motel One Frankfurt-Römer for a central hotel with parking.

Germany Itinerary 14 Days

This Germany itinerary is the longest one that we have for you – for now. If anyone is interested in a 21 day version, please let us know!

The distance you’d cover with this 14 day itinerary would be around 1960 kilometres . The driving time would be approx. 22.5 hours – but of course, this varies depending on traffic and the exact route you decide to take.

As you’ll see below, sometimes the driving time between two cities is longer than 3 hours. So, while this itinerary is totally doable in two weeks – if you wanted to slow down the pace a bit, you could just as easily spend more time in some of the cities and complete the itinerary in more days.

Since you have probably already read about most of these places in some of the itineraries above, we’ll try to keep the descriptions short and not get too repetitive.

Our version here is written as an “incomplete route” from Frankfurt to Munich. However, as with most of our itineraries, you are welcome to reverse the direction if that works better for you and/or start and end in the same city. So, to see a big part of the country, your 14 day Germany itinerary could look something like this:

Day 1: Frankfurt Day 2: Koblenz / Eltz Castle Day 3: Cologne Day 4: Hanover or Celle Day 5+6: Hamburg Day 7+8: Berlin Day 9: Erfurt or Weimar Day 10: Nuremberg Day 11: Stuttgart Day 12: Augsburg Day 13+14: Munich

Once again we begin this itinerary in Frankfurt since it is an easy city to get to. As we have mentioned before, there are a few things to see in the city so you can start exploring on day one!

Frankfurt is also a great city to pick up a rental car. Since many international (business) travellers fly into Frankfurt, there should be many cars available with automatic transmissions. In smaller German towns you’ll find that this is not always the case.

Accommodation in Frankfurt:  If you are making a stop in Frankfurt, you can check here for accommodations and hotels in Frankfurt .

As for accommodation options, the Motel One Frankfurt-Römer has parking available and is located in the city centre close to the Main River. That’s important if you have a car with you but it’s also walkable to the train station, so you know.

Another great hotel option that is even closer to the train station is Fleming’s Express Hotel Frankfurt . This hotel is known for its prime location to the north of the station, its tasty breakfast, nice decor, and fair price. This is definitely a popular place you should at least look into if you are travelling by train around Germany.

Day 2: Koblenz / Eltz Castle

On day two of this itinerary, you’ll be on your way to Koblenz, a small German city on the Rhine river. You can either explore the city or use it as a base to visit one of the many castles close by.

Our suggestion would be a visit to Eltz Castle which is a beautiful medieval castle surrounded by a forest. Please keep in mind that the castle is not open year round. You can check opening hours here .

You could also visit Eltz Castle as a day trip from Frankfurt but then you’d have to return to Frankfurt at the end of the day. This wouldn’t make much sense unless you want to spend some more time in Frankfurt anyway, as Cologne (your next destination) is closer to Koblenz and Eltz Castle than Frankfurt.

The drive from Frankfurt to Koblenz should take around 1 hr 30 minutes by car . If you want to take the train , the journey would take between 1 hr 30 minutes and 2 hrs 15 minutes . From Koblenz, it is only about a 30 minute drive to Eltz Castle.

Accommodation in Koblenz: Since Koblenz isn’t that large, you should have no problem finding and choosing an accommodation that works for you. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Koblenz .

If you want a popular option right in the heart of the city centre, you should see the Sander Hotel . This hotel is located within walking distance to the rivers as well as restaurants and shops in the centre. If you travel by car to Koblenz, they have onsite parking which is handy. That said, you can also easily walk from the hotel to the train station in minutes.

Day 3: Cologne

The next stop on your 14 day Germany itinerary is Cologne, a city we have mentioned already in some of the previous itineraries. As you might know, the highlight of the city is the Cologne cathedral which is quite an impressive sight. As the city is located on the Rhine river, a boat tour might also be a great activity depending on the time of year you are visiting.

Getting to Cologne from Koblenz takes around 1 hr 15 minutes by car  and between 50 minutes and 1 hr 15 minutes by train . The train tracks follow the Rhine river for part of the journey which allows for some beautiful views!

Accommodation in Cologne : There are lots of great places to stay in Cologne. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Cologne .

We recently stayed at the Lindner Hotel City Plaza which was great value for money. The breakfast buffet is incredible and it’s an easy, short walk into the city centre near the Cathedral. It also has parking available for those with a car.

If you want to stay a little closer to the river and the Old Town, check out the CityClass Hotel Residence am Dom . With many things around to keep you busy – like attractions, food, and/or drinks – you’re just a short walk to the central train station if you stay here.

For those looking for a hostel, Cologne Downtown Hostel was a great stay for Eric a number of years ago. It’s really popular, in a great location, and has a nice rooftop balcony to enjoy.

Day 4: Hanover or Celle

Day 4 of this itinerary will take you to either Hanover or Celle depending on your preference. Celle is a noticeably smaller city/town than Hanover and the two places are only a few minutes apart.

Getting from Cologne to Hanover will take approximately  3 hrs 10 minutes by car  and between  2 hrs 40 minutes and 3 hrs 5 minutes by train .

Accommodation in Hanover: Since Hanover is a well-travelled city for people moving around Germany, there are a number of accommodation options in and around the city centre. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Hanover .

To stay very close to the central train station in the city centre, you should see the Hotel Loccumer Hof . The location makes it great if you are travelling by train and on foot. They also have onsite parking if you are arriving to Hanover with a car!

To the south of this hotel, the Arthotel ANA Prestige am neuen Rathaus is an option right across from the New Town Hall. This hotel has a beautiful, light style and is also close to the water/parks. Complete with breakfast and onsite parking, you can’t go wrong here!

If you want to spend a night in a smaller German city instead, then Celle is a good option as it is not far from Hanover. That will make it easy to reach the next stop on your itinerary without too much of a detour. The journey from Cologne to Celle would be slightly longer and take around 3 hrs 30 minutes by car and 3 hrs 19 minutes by train .

Accommodation in Celle: Celle isn’t that big at all – so there are only a handful of places to stay. That said, there are still some great options. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Celle .

Of note, check out Hotel Borchers . This hotel – one of only a handful located in the heart of “city centre” is a top pick with a tasty breakfast and an underground car park. You can also walk there from the Celle train station which is located not too far across town.

Must-see Attractions in Celle:

• Celle Castle
• Bomann Museum
• French Garden

Day 5+6: Hamburg

An itinerary across a large part of the country wouldn’t really feel complete without including Hamburg. Since there is quite a bit to see in this hanseatic city, you’ll spend two nights in the city to give you more time to explore.

Getting from Hanover to Hamburg will take you approx. 1 hr 45 minutes by car and between 1 hr 15 minutes and 2 hrs 30 minutes by train . As mentioned before, this varies depending on the type of train connection you choose.

The journey from Celle to Hamburg will be approximately 15 minutes shorter at 1 hr 30 minutes by car . If you opt for the train, you can expect travel times between 1 hr 10 minutes and 2 hrs .

Accommodation in Hamburg : Since Hamburg is a well-travelled city, it makes sense that there are loads of places and areas to stay in. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Hamburg .

The Mövenpick Hotel Hamburg might work for those with a car since they have onsite parking. This old water tower is a different hotel than you might be used to but it’s a great experience overall.

Something closer to the central station to get to on foot would be the ARCOTEL Rubin Hamburg which is located in St. Georg. This is an area with shops and restaurants and is very much part of the city centre.

Those looking for a budget accommodation can check out Generator Hamburg which is a popular hostel close to the train station. If you’re ever unsure or want more advice, we have a detailed guide on where to stay in Hamburg .

Day 7+8: Berlin

Of course, we couldn’t forget to include a stop in the capital of the country when planning a longer trip through Germany. Since there is so much to do and see in Berlin you will spend two nights there.

This will also give you some more time to recover from all the driving you have done so far on this journey. Getting from Hamburg to Berlin takes approximately 3 hrs 20 minutes by car (obviously traffic depending) and just about 1 hr 50 minutes by train .

Accommodation in Berlin : There are lots of hotel options in Berlin. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Berlin .

The Park Plaza Wallstreet Berlin Mitte is a good option in the city centre for those coming to Berlin with a car while the NH Collection Berlin Mitte am Checkpoint Charlie is located right at the attraction “Checkpoint Charlie” in the city centre.

A great option for a hostel/hotel where Eric stayed a few years back is PLUS Berlin . You can find it near the famous East Side Gallery which is a very popular attraction to check out.

As mentioned a few times now, we also have more articles on t hings to see in Berlin and a one day Berlin itinerary .

Day 9: Erfurt or Weimar

For the following day you have the choice between Erfurt or Weimar as your next destination. Both are small cities in the state of Thuringia with Weimar being smaller than Erfurt. If you know anything about Martin Luther, an important figure in the Protestant reformation, then you might have heard of one or both of these places before.

If you’re looking for a place with a beautiful old town and some nice churches as well as buildings for you to explore, then we’d really recommend Erfurt. We had a great time during the days we spent there. The city also has some really nice, cozy cafes if that is something that you care about.

Getting to Erfurt from Berlin will take a while – but it is a great stop on the way to the south of Germany. You can expect the journey to take approx. 3 hrs 40 minutes by car and just around 1 hr 50 minutes by ICE (fast train) .

Accommodation in Erfurt:  With Erfurt being a smaller city with a smaller central area to explore, finding a place to stay isn’t too difficult. You can check here for hotels and accommodations in Erfurt .

When we visited Erfurt, we booked the Gästehaus in der Gotthardtstraße . This was a simple guesthouse with a nice host and cozy rooms located just a short walk north of the Krämerbrücke. There’s also a small parking lot onsite if you’re coming to Erfurt with a car.

For a stay that is more central, check out Hotel Krämerbrücke Erfurt . It’s located basically right beside the Krämerbrücke making it a great option if you are travelling by train and you’re on foot.

Once again, if you want to learn some more about Erfurt before you visit the city, check out our detailed Erfurt Guide here .

If you instead preferred to learn some more about the well-known German writers Goethe and Schiller – or about Germany’s dark past – then you should plan to visit Weimar instead.

Two of the highlights there are Goethe’s and Schiller’s House – now turned into museums. Close to Weimar there’s also the Buchenwald Memorial which was a former Nazi concentration camp. This was the first KZ-Memorial Lisa ever visited. It was a somber experience, but also an important one in regards to understanding more about Germany’s past.

The journey from Berlin to Weimar will be slightly shorter than to Erfurt – at least by car. It’ll take approx. 3 hrs 15 minutes by car and around 2 hrs 20 minutes by train .

Accommodation in Weimar : There are a handful of places to stay in Weimar since it’s a smaller city – but you still have good options. You can check here for accommodations in Weimar .

In particular, check out Amalienhof Hotel und Apartment . This classic and very popular hotel is just south of the heart of the city centre. It features parking onsite and an excellent breakfast. It’s also not too far to walk to the train station if you are arriving on foot.

Must-see Attractions in/close to Weimar:

• Buchenwald Memorial
• Goethe’s House
• Schiller’s House

Day 10: Nuremberg

On day 10 of your itinerary, you’ll drive – or take the train – from Erfurt/Weimar to Nuremberg. This Franconian city has also been mentioned in some of the shorter itineraries.

The journey from Erfurt to Nuremberg will take approx. 2 hrs 40 minutes by car in a southern direction. The drive from Weimar to Nuremberg will just be a couple minutes longer.

If you decide to take the train, the journey would take between 1.5 hrs and 2 hrs from Weimar and between 1 hr 10 minutes and 1 hr 30 minutes from Erfurt .

Accommodation in Nuremberg : Nuremberg is a city with loads of history and attractions so it’s very popular. As such, you will find hotels and accommodations all over the city – from the old town to the surrounding areas. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Nuremberg .

We booked a stay at Five Reasons Hotel and Hostel and we would recommend it. You can find the place inside the massive old city walls so the location was great – walkable to the central train station and also to go find top attractions.

On the same trip, friends of our stayed at the Sheraton Carlton Nuremberg . It was close to where we stayed and they really enjoyed it. There’s this great pool on an upper floor with city views as well as a parking lot across the street if you travel to Nuremberg by car. The train station is close as is the old town by walking so it’s great option overall, too.

Day 11: Stuttgart

The following day you will be on your way from Nuremberg to Stuttgart – once again, a city we have mentioned multiple times now during this article. From Nuremberg, it’ll take you around 2 hrs 15 minutes by car  and  between 2 hrs 10 minutes and 2 hrs 30 minutes by train to get to Stuttgart.

As we’ve mentioned before, if you are driving and have the time, you could take a small detour and stop in Rothenburg ob der Tauber for a stroll through its beautiful old town. We’ll leave that up to you!

Accommodation in Stuttgart: You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Stuttgart .

The Abalon Hotel ideal has parking for those with a car while the Pension am Heusteig is a guesthouse close by but is easy to get to by the metro system if you arrive by train to central station and you are walking.

Day 12: Augsburg

On day 12 you’ll be on your way from Stuttgart to Augsburg, a small city in Bavaria and one of Germany’s oldest cities. Around Germany, most people have heard of Augsburg because of its “Fuggerei” – a historic social housing complex where rent has increased very slowly over the centuries. It’s certainly worth a visit!

It’ll take you around  2 hrs by car to get from Stuttgart to Augsburg. If you opt for the train , then you can expect the journey to take approx. 1 hr 40 minutes .

Accommodation in Augsburg: In Augsburg, you will find a number of places to stay around the city centre. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Augsburg .

For a reliable stay, check out Hotel Augusta . This popular hotel – located right in the city centre – features breakfast and has parking available if you are travelling to Augsburg by car.

The nice thing about Augsburg is that because it’s a smaller city, you can easily walk to the hotel from the train station if you are arriving by train.

You might also check out City Hotel Ost am Kö which is another hotel in the heart of the centre walkable to the station. It also has breakfast and parking garage right nearby.

Must-see Attractions in Augsburg:

• Augsburg Cathedral
• Perlach Tower

Day 13+14: Munich

On your second to last day of this itinerary you will drive from Augsburg to Munich. That’s the last stop on your two week Germany adventure. In Munich, there is more than enough to see to spend two days in the city.

Munich also has an airport with good international connections in case you’re coming from overseas and need to take a plane to get back home. If that’s not the case, we’d encourage you to see whether the train would be an alternative to get you back home as well.

The journey from Augsburg to Munich should take just less than  1 hr by car  and  between 30 and 48 minutes by train.  So it’s certainly one of the shortest transitions mentioned in this article.

Accommodation in Munich:  If you’re exploring Munich while in Germany, there is no shortage of places to stay and areas to check out. You can check here for accommodations and hotels in Munich . For this itinerary, remember to book your Munich accommodation for two nights.

We really liked our stay at the H2 Hotel München Olympiapark . From the really good breakfast, nice rooms, and excellent location with metro access nearby – you cannot beat the price for Munich. There’s also parking available if you’re travelling with a car to Munich.

For a spot right in the heart of Munich’s charming old town, check out the Platzl Hotel Superior . This is a trendy hotel that puts you super close to all the action at busy Marienplatz and is steps from Hofbräuhaus, the beer hall made famous decades ago. You can also catch the metro or walk to the central train station from here.

If you are looking for more details on accommodations in this city, we wrote a detailed guide on where to stay in Munich .

To learn more about the city – as we have mentioned before – check out our post on Munich in a day if you want more details about the city!

And there you have it – one massive Germany guide with more than one Germany itinerary to suit your travel needs! Whether you’re looking for a short 5 day or a wild 14 day itinerary – we’re sure you’ll have a great time exploring Germany. We’re actually really happy to have created this post – Lisa especially. It’s always fun to help others explore your home country!

As always, Happy Germany Itinerary Waddlin’, – L&E

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The perfect 7 days in Bavaria Itinerary – exploring castles, mountains, and traditional cities

If you’re anything like me, you probably also have a hard time deciding for cities to visit once you arrive at a new destination. There’s so much to see, yet so little time – right?! I often find it difficult to choose my main points of interest and the perfect Itinerary from an outside position. If you’re feeling the same (or just looking for inspiration), I’ve got you covered. I’ll share my perfect Itinerary for 7 days in Bavaria that covers the most iconic spots.

Besides the step-by-step Itinerary, you’ll find a map and a rough price calculation for this trip at the end of the article.

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All links marked with a * are so-called affiliate links. These links will allow me to get a small commission whenever you decide to purchase through the link.

Where should you start your 7 days in Bavaria?

The two (international) airports in Bavaria are Nürnberg (NUE) and Munich (MUC). Since Munich is one of the largest hubs in Germany, we’ll start our 7-day Bavaria road trip here. But, of course, you can also swap the individual stops and choose a different city like Nürnberg as starting point.

Nürnberg and Munich offer good infrastructure, especially if you also want to rent a car.

The ultimate 7 days in Bavaria Itinerary

As mentioned, you can also start this round trip at any other point. However, we’ll start our road trip in Munich since the Bavarian capital is usually the first place for travelers visiting Bavaria – especially if you are traveling from abroad.

This specific seven-day trip Itinerary isn’t made for slow travelers. You’ll cover a new city daily to make the most of your stay in Bavaria. Feel free to skip a town if needed; however, these stops will give you an excellent overview of the main points of interest in this part of Germany.

Day 1 | Munich

München (de) = Munich (en)

The journey begins! You will spend your first day in Munich, the world-famous Bavarian capital. Since Munich is so much more than just the Oktoberfest and FC Bayern München, you’d need multiple days in Munich to cover all there is to see.

Here are some sights you should add to your list to get to know the city:

Many of Munich’s attractions are within walking distance of each other so that you can combine sightseeing with a long walk. After your sightseeing tour of Munich, you can end the evening in one of the many restaurants.

If you want to try good Bavarian cuisine , I’d recommend the “Augustiner Bräustuben” and “Donisl.” At night you can wander through the many bars and clubs.

The following day is packed – maybe you’d better try to get some rest. (I know it’s not that easy… Munich’s nightlife is great!)

Hotels in Munich

• The NIU Brass*
• MIO by Amano*
• Roomers Munich*

Day 2 | Zugspitze – Neuschwanstein Castle – Füssen

A quick heads-up in advance: this day is packed! If you want to spend a little more time on the Zugspitze, the Eibsee, or the castle, I recommend spreading the two activities over two days. On the other hand, if you want to visit both spots in one day, as suggested, you should leave early to get the most out of it.

Step 1: Munich → Zugspitze | 1 hour 10 minutes

The second day of your journey takes you further south, close to the Austrian border. In the morning, you’ll go to Garmisch Patenkirchen to taste the mountain air. Then, you can hop into a cable car and ride up Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze . The ride on the gondola or mountain railway is a sensation already. After arriving at the mountain station, you’ll have a fascinating view of the mountain landscape. The perfect start for your week in Bavaria!

ADD ON: EIBSEE

At the foot of the Zugspitze is a lake called Eibsee, which you can reach after a 10-minute drive from Garmisch-Partenkirchen. This lake is one of the most famous in Bavaria , as it offers a truly fantastic view with crystal clear water and mountain scenery. The valley station of the new Zugspitz cable car is only 2 00m from the lake and takes you directly to the Zugspitze. This specific cable car is one of the area’s newest and most innovative ones!

In addition, you can visit the lake before or after your trip up the mountain. Since the Eibsee is very well known, I recommend you get there early if you plan a short detour around the lake.

Before you start, you should know that the ride in a cable car can be challenging for travelers who are afraid of heights. The floor-to-ceiling glass gondolas take you to a dizzying height of 3000m – this can be frightening, even for passengers who are not scared of heights. The journey takes about 10 minutes and will definitely leave you speechless.

Before you arrive, you should check the departure times on the official Zugspitze website . Here you can also check which days the cable cars are closed and where you can find additional parking spaces. The cable car ride (ascent and descent) costs you €63 in summer and €57 in winter , and you can purchase your tickets online.

PS: Don’t forget to pack a jacket and skip the open sandals (even in summer). It’s cold up there!

Step 2: Zugspitze → Neuschwanstein Castle | 1 hour 15 minutes

The fastest route for this part often leads through Austria. Before you set off, you should check this and – if necessary – check whether you are allowed to cross the border and the costs thereby incurred. I’d recommend choosing the route within Germany – it only takes 10 minutes longer.

After an exciting morning in the mountains, you’ll continue to the next iconic destination: Neuschwanstein Castle . Of course, this world-famous attraction should not be missing from any Bavaria Itinerary. Entry to the castle costs €15 and includes a guided tour . Unfortunately, visiting the castle on your own is not possible, and a tour lasts about 30 minutes.

You can park your car in Hohenschwangau , as there is no direct access to the castle. Then, you can hike up to Neuschwanstein castle (approx. 30 minutes) or use the shuttle bus. The bus takes you to the Marienbrücke, where you have to walk another 15 minutes downhill to the castle. Option three would be the horse carriage, which will take you to a turning point just before the castle. You’d still have a 15-minute walk ahead of you from this point.

The iconic photo spot can be found on the Marienbrücke , about 15 minutes’ walking distance from the castle.  Please note that the bridge may be closed on some days in winter due to the weather.

You can read more about recent information and prices on the official website of Neuschwanstein Castle . I recommend you buy the tickets online in advance, even if there is a fee of €2.50. Since the ticket contingents are limited, you’re not at risk of not getting a ticket after your arrival. You can also check the seasonal opening times on their website.

I would generally plan 2.5 hours for a visit since the outdoor area and the view from the Marienbrücke should also be considered. In addition, the paths between the castle, bridge, and car park also take some time.

Step 3: Füssen

The cute town of Füssen is only a 10-minute drive from the castle and is a great place to stay for the night. You can end the adventurous day in a cozy, traditional restaurant. Then, if you don’t fall straight into bed from exhaustion, you can use the remaining time for a walk around the city center.

Hotels in Füssen

• Hotel Maurushaus*
• Hotel Sonne*
• Hotel Hirsch*

Day 3 | Rothenburg ob der Tauber (along the romantic road?)

After checking some of the top attractions in southern Germany off our to-do list, we are now driving north, more precisely to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The drive from Füssen to Rothenburg takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes along the A7 highway.

Alternatively, you can also drive the Romantic Road . This route takes you from Füssen via many small towns to Rothenburg (and even on to Würzburg). 

But what exactly is the Romantic Road? In short, this route connects culturally significant cities along picturesque countryside and traditional villages . It extends over 470km and 29 towns – so it will take you some time if you should aim for this route. 

The Romantic Road is particularly popular with travelers who prefer to travel slowly and are also interested in the culture and history of smaller towns. If you’re in Bavaria for only seven days and want to explore more than just this region, I would rather skip it, as the journey from Füssen to Rothenburg o.d.T on the Romantic Road takes twice as much time (without the stops along the route). However, since you’ll hear about this route often, especially concerning cities like Füssen and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, I wanted to give you a quick insight into what you’d have to expect.

Arrived in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, you’ll get to explore a magical city full of medieval flair. Especially during the Christmas season, Rothenburg is a magnet for visitors from all over the world!

To get the most out of your day in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, these are the best places to visit:

If you are not too tired after the long drive and the day in the city, you can participate in one of the iconic night guard tours *.

• For more tips, feel free to read my guide about The best things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Hotels in Rothenburg

• Gästehaus Goldenes Lamm*
• Historik Hotel Goldener Hirsch*
• Romantikhotel Markusturm*

Day 4 | Würzburg

Würzburg (de) = Wuerzburg (en)

On this day, you’ll explore the city of Würzburg, which is only a 45-minute drive from Rothenburg.

This city is known for its charming city center, history, and tradition around wine . As with most other cities, you can experience a lot here. If I had to narrow it down, I’d recommend the following things to do in Würzburg:

In the evening, I recommend you immerse yourself in the world of wine. For example, you can reserve a table in the Julius Spital and try the local wine accompanied by delicious German cuisine. Afterward, you should stop by the Old Bridge and drink a so-called “Brückenschoppen.” This term describes the serving and enjoyment of wine on the bridge.

In the evening, many people drink wine along the bridge with friends and family and enjoy the atmosphere.

An absolute must-do in Würzburg!

Hotels in Würzburg

• Hotel Moxy Würzburg*
• Hotel Franziskaner*
• Hotel Würzburger Hof*

Day 5 | Bamberg and Nürnberg

Nürnberg (de) = Nuermberg (en)

The next destination on your seven-day trip through Bavaria will be the beautiful city of Nürnberg – which I also call my home. I’ve been in love with this city since day 1, which is why it shouldn’t be missing from this itinerary. The ride from Würzburg to Nürnberg takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes . But before we talk about Nürnberg, I wanted to give you a quick tip for an additional stopover.

Bamberg is a very picturesque and charming town that wouldn’t be that much of a detour on your way to Nürnberg. If you liked Würzburg and Rothenburg, Bamberg would inspire you just as much. The journey from Würzburg to Bamberg takes 1 hour, and from Bamberg to Nürnberg, it’s another 50 minutes . The city is also known as “Franconian Rome” and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the monastery garden, The new residence, or walk through the charming old town. Bamberg, aka “little Venice,” has a lot to offer. 

Back to our main stop of the day: Nürnberg is a popular destination for travelers worldwide. The city has a lot to offer. However, in my opinion, the most important stops for your visit are:

If you need a break from sightseeing, you can find my favorite cafes in Nürnberg in this guide. 

You will find many restaurants and bars to end the adventurous day.

Hotels in Nürnberg

• Leonardo Nürnberg*
• Karl August*
• Park Plaza Nürnberg*

Day 6 | Regensburg

Day 6 of your 7 days in Bavaria takes you to the city I grew up in: Regensburg. The university town on the Danube river combines modern and medieval gems. The old town of Regensburg has even made it onto the list of UNESCO world heritage sites.

The journey from Nürnberg to Regensburg takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes . Therefore, if you made a stop in Bamberg the day before, you can also use the morning of this day for more sightseeing in Nürnberg and drive on to Regensburg later that day.

Once you arrive in Regensburg, you should visit the following places:

Regensburg has many bars where you can end the last evening before your return to Munich.

Short boat trips on the Danube , which also lead past the Walhalla , for example, are trendy. If you are not a fan of ships, you can also drive to the Walhalla by car. Evening picnics at the Walhalla are an excellent date-night idea!

Hotels in Regensburg

• Holiday Inn Express*
• Novotel Zentrum*
• Orphée – Großes Haus*
• For more tips about Regensburg, you can read my guide about the top 10 things to do in Regensburg.

Day 7 | Back in Munich

The last day of your round trip through Bavaria takes you back to Munich. Depending on your arrival time in Regensburg the day before, you could also spend some more time exploring the city. Alternatively, you can continue to Munich right after breakfast and discover the corners of the town you didn’t see on the first day. The journey from Regensburg to Munich takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes . If you drive directly to the airport, you’d only have a 1hr 10min ride.

What foods to try during your 7 days in Bavaria

Besides all the adventures and impressions, the best thing about traveling is often the local cuisine. Bavaria also has a lot to offer here. On your round trip, you will find some of the most famous Bavarian dishes. For example, you can eat “ Schneeballen ” (snowballs) in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Or maybe you try a classic “ Weißwurst ” (white sausage) breakfast in Munich and then enjoy “ Schäufele” or “ Bratwurst ” in Nürnberg? A pretzel is a perfect snack between meals, and you will definitely find the classic Schnitzel on every menu.

PS: An iconic combination would be a portion of “ Käsespätzle ” with a view from the Zugspitze!

• If you want to know more about the culinary delights of Bavaria, you can browse through my list of the 20 most famous dishes in Bavaria .

What you should know before spending 7 days in Bavaria

• Sundays are rest days, so you should plan shopping or similar tasks during the week. On weekdays, supermarkets here usually close at 8 p.m. Some shops close even earlier.
• The smaller the town, the more cash you’ll need . Although card payment is widely accepted, you often come across specific limitations. Smaller shops, in particular, often only accept EC cards and sometimes only accept cards above a specific value. In traditional shops like smaller bakeries, you might only be able to pay cash. So I would recommend always having some cash on hand. 
• Driving in Germany is, in general, really pleasant and easy. However, in the southern regions, you should ensure that you get the right winter tires in the colder months. You may have also heard that some highways in Germany have no speed limits. Nevertheless, please drive carefully and don’t let speeders harass you in your rearview mirror.
• The expression “Servus” is used here both to greet and to say goodbye .
• English is widely spoken , and you can usually find someone speaking it. However, dialects differ within Bavaria. So don’t be surprised if everything sounds different throughout your trip.
• Public toilets usually charge fees . Most of the time, you’ll find entry gates (especially on motorways) or staff asking for payment, which is around 50-70 cents.

How much will a road trip for 7 days in Bavaria cost?

Let’s talk about the price of this trip. Germany isn’t the most expensive country on the European average, but this trip will not be a bargain either.

Of course, the exact costs depend on your travel time, the accommodation, and the car you drive. 

Here is an example of a trip calculation to give you a rough overview.

As a database for this calculation, I chose a week in May for two persons , the mid-range hotels of the respective stops, a mid-range car , and the entrance fees for the attractions mentioned on day 2.

I also calculated €10 per day for parking spaces – this changes if you book a hotel with free parking, for example.

You’d still need to add the cost of fuel, meals, shopping, etc., on top of this. 

You can find a rough estimate of the current prices in Bavaria here (10/22):

~0.8€/bottle

I hope you found this Bavaria itinerary helpful. Even if you’re not staying an entire 7 days in Bavaria, you can now narrow it down to your specific points of interest. 

If you have more questions or something to add to the list, please let me know or leave it in the comments for others to read. Also, don’t forget to save it to your Pinterest boards so you can access it as soon as you start planning your Bavaria itinerary!

As always, stay happy and healthy!

See you soon,

Like it? Pin it!

Hi there, I'm Julia. I am a german native travel blogger and content creator showing you the world through my eyes. Welcome to the page!

13 Comments

So lovely. I missed seeing the Neuschwanstein Castle when we visited and regret that. Next time!

The perfect reason to come back soon!

Woow this is such a great guide, and I absolutely love the design! Amazing effort!

Thank you so much Sabrina! 🙂

Bavaria is so pretty! Especially this time of year! Thanks for sharing this extensive guide. So easy to plan our trip now!

true, fall season is absolutely stunning here!

This is a perfect itinerary to explore Bavaria in 7 days. So many beautiful and historical areas.

I’m happy you like it 🙂

We have travelled all over Europe but have not spent any time exploring the castles, mountains or cities of Bavaria. I am sure that 7 days would give us a taste test of this lovely region. But I am sure we will want many visits to see it all. We certainly will be checking out the wine from this region. We will try to book a “Brückenschoppen”. Thanks for this great itinerary. We can certainly build our trip on this.

There are so many things to see there! I only visited Munich but Neuschwanstein Castle is high on my wish list! I love your detailed budget breakdown.

Bavaria is one of my dream trips! I will definitely save this guide for when I finally have the chance to go. Thank you for sharing!

Great itinerary! There is so much to see in this region. I’ve done Munich and Rothenburg ob der Tauber but I’ve been dying to go back to see Neuschwanstein Castle. I’ll be saving this for when I’m able to go back, thanks!

Glad you like it! 🙂

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A billionaire long believed to have died in a skiing accident may actually be alive and living with a younger woman in Moscow, new evidence has suggested.

Karl-Erivan Haub, then 58, vanished on a solo ski tour in the Alps on April 7, 2018.

A six-day search yielded no sign of the businessman, and he was declared dead by a German court in 2021, according to the Seattle Times .

Now, however, the state prosecutor’s office in Cologne has opened a probe into allegations that Haub’s brother, Christian, provided false information when he said he had zero information indicating that his brother could still be alive, the Daily Beast explained .

The investigation followed a criminal complaint from journalists with the broadcaster RTL that were looking into Haub’s disappearance, the outlet said.

One of the journalists, investigative reporter Liv von Boetticher, told Capital magazine that she was aware of photos allegedly showing Haub in Moscow in 2021 – the same year he was legally declared dead.

“As far as I know, these photos were obtained on behalf of Christian Haub and two internal investigators working for him by an Israeli-American company that searched the biometric surveillance system in Moscow for images of Karl-Erivan Haub,” she explained.

The coincidence in appearance between Haub and the person in the images was about 90%, according to a Stern magazine report from March 2023 .

Based on her information, Boetticher explained, Christian Haub had access to the photos when “he stated under oath to the Cologne District Court in May 2021 that he had ‘no reliable evidence’ that his brother was still alive.”

Boetticher insisted that there is “strong evidence that [Karl-Erivan Haub] could have caused his disappearance intentionally and that at least parts of his family were aware of it and, against their better judgment, kept this secret from the Cologne District Court and the public.”

Haub – who was born to German parents in Tacoma, Washington, and educated in Switzerland – was married and had two adult children at the time of his disappearance. 

The latest evidence, however, suggested that he may have a younger woman on the go in Russia, Boetticher told Capital.

“There was an alleged lover of Karl-Erivan Haub, with whom he had frequent telephone contact before his disappearance and who is in contact with the Russian domestic secret service FSB,” she said.

Rumors about Haub and his alleged mistress, Veronika Ermilova, have circulated since around 2020, when his wife, Katrin, publicly sparred with her brothers-in-law over whether to have him declared legally dead,  the Times reported .

Haub supposedly called Erminolca’s number 13 times three days before his disappearance, the Times added, citing RTL.

The billionaire was also rumored to have had a Russian passport in addition to his US and German citizenships, the outlet said.

There was also speculation that millions of euros in Tengelmann funds had been funneled to Russia between 2010 and 2015.

Haub vanished just one month after the death of his father, Erivan Haub.

At the time of his death, the elder Haub was worth an estimated $6.4 billion, according to Forbes .

Boetticher indicated that the reason for Karl-Erivan Haub vanishing could be linked to the family’s business dealings.

 “Our suspicion is that dealings with Russia or with Russian business partners may have put Karl-Erivan in trouble in the Western world,” the journalist suggested to Capital.

Christian Haub took over the Tengelmann Group as sole CEO shortly after his older brother disappeared.

His lawyer, Mark Binz, vehemently denied the journalists’ allegations in a comment to Zeit Online.

“Of course, there is no truth to the accusation,” Bonz scoffed. “Until a few weeks ago, the Cologne public prosecutor’s office saw it that way and therefore refused to start an investigation.”

With Post wires

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8 Amazing Things to Do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

A t the crossroads of the Romantic Road and Castle Road sits a small city with unparalleled history and distinctive half-timbered houses. Rothenburg ob der Tauber draws many tourists but is still far enough off the main routes through Germany.

If you love the idea of exploring a fairy tale town in the heart of Germany, here are the top things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber that you need to add to your itinerary.

Best Things to Do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber 

1. take a walking tour by day or night.

Rothenburg is an ideal town to explore by foot, as it’s primarily flat and well-cobbled. There are great options for walking tours no matter when you want to see the city. 

By day, the Rothenburg Tourism Office recommends a 90-minute walking tour of the Old Town. Your guide will show you some of the most important buildings in the city, and guide you through the labyrinth of narrow roads to cover many parts of the city. In the process, you’ll learn about the fascinating history of Rothenburg, and have plenty of opportunities for photos. 

€8 per person; tours daily from March to October. Contact Rothenburg Tourism outside these dates for more details. 

By night, everyone recommends the Nightwatchman tour. Lead by a traditionally-dressed ‘nightwatchman’ with a great sense of humor, the tour meets in front of the city hall several times each evening. In a large group, you’ll wander through the center of town, learning the ‘darker’ parts of history, tidbits about Rothenburg’s fascinating architecture, and even why nightwatchmen were needed at all. 

€8 per person; tours in German & English year-round. 

2. Experience Christmas Year-Round 

Rothenburg is also affectionately known as “Christmastown,” Germany – and for good reason. Their Christmas market is one of the best in Europe, but they celebrate Christmas year-round. 

The flagship Käthe Wohlfahrt store is located in Rothenburg, and houses tens of thousands of unique Christmas and holiday decorations. The store is beautiful, modeled on a Christkindlmarkt (Christmas market), and can take a while to explore.  Read our full article on Käthe Wohlfahrt Rothenburg here>>

Fans of Christmas should also be sure to visit the Deutsches Weihnachtsmuseum (German Christmas Museum). Meticulously designed to offer guests an accurate education about the history of Christmas, this museum makes up for its lack of flashiness with an astounding number of items. If you’ve ever wondered why Santa Claus wears red, the decorations we’ve used through the centuries (including what ornaments Nazis hung on their trees), and who Krampus is – this is the perfect museum for you. 

€4 per person in peak season (summer + Christmas), €2.50 per person in non-peak 

season. 

3. Visit the Kriminalmuseum (Medieval Criminal Museum) 

As one of Germany’s most well-preserved cities, it’s a perfect spot for a museum that houses some of the oldest medieval relics still in existence. The Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum (Medieval Criminal Museum) is one-of-a-kind, housing 30,000+ artifacts of “law and order” from 1,000 years of medieval German history. 

Exploring the museum’s permanent exhibit, you can see everything from shackles, stocks, and punishment masks to a dunking stool used to punish bakers who cheated their customers. This is also home to the famous Iron Maiden of Nuremburg, a “torture” device historians have studied and preserved, which is now the crown jewel of the collection. 

The Kriminalmuseum also has a temporary exhibit building, which changes exhibits from time to time. For example, one past exhibit focused on Luther and witchcraft; the exhibits offer a fascinating expansion of what the museum normally offers. 

Adults are €7, families are €17. You can also book a guided tour of the museum.

4. Enjoy a Taste of the Tauber 

Beginning in 2016, Rothenburg worked with local towns to encourage the Genießen ob der Tauber (Taste of the Tauber) culinary initiative. Aimed at highlighting local food and drink producers, restaurants and chefs are creating special menus sourced within the Tauber river region. 

Restaurants in Rothenburg are offering a special menu that features local dishes and ingredients beyond the standard dishes you might expect; one of the most popular places to try this menu is at Eisenhut Hotel & Restaurant . On their special menu, Eisenhut Restaurant chefs offer both a la carte and prix fixe menus so you can choose as much or as little food as you’d like to try. 

Dishes from €7 and prix fixe options from €39.50 with €21.50 wine pairing option. 

5. Climb the Rathausturm (City Hall Tower) 

Nothing beats a good view. Climbing the tallest building in every town gives you the chance to see the city spread out below you – it gives a good context for the city and the countryside. 

If this is something you enjoy, be sure to take an hour to climb the Rathausturm (Town Hall tower). 220 steps take you to the top of the tiny spire, and the panoramic views are worth it. Admittedly, it’s a very narrow viewing platform, so this probably isn’t good for people afraid of heights. If you’re okay with a little thrill, this is definitely worth the time and money.

€2 per person, paid at the top once you’ve climbed about 220 stairs. 

6. Walk the City Fortifications 

Rothenburg has one of the most complete and well-preserved city fortifications in Germany. Even better, they’re completely free and open to the public (unlike say, Dubrovnik!). Take a walk one afternoon to climb the rickety steps onto the narrow walkway and enjoy the views. You can peer through arrow slots to the surrounding countryside, or get a great view of Rothenburg from above roof level. 

Don’t forget to pay attention to the names and locations inscribed on certain stones built into the wall. Following World War II, Rothenburg “crowdsourced” restoration funds, and allowed people to buy sections of the wall with their donations. These names come from around the world and throughout the past seven decades – you might even see a name you recognize! 

7. Go to Hell (Höll) 

If there’s one restaurant everyone recommends in Rothenburg, it was Zur Höll (“to hell”). Tucked off the main streets near town hall, Höll is a hopping spot despite the potentially off-putting name. 

This restaurant is so popular that it often requires a reservation, so be sure to arrange one in advance if you want to have a tradition dining experience here. The tiny restaurant is low and crowded, but will transport you back in time. 

Zur Höll is located at Burggasse 8, less than five minutes walk from the main square of Old Town Rothenburg. 

8. Redeem Yourself at St. Jakob’s Kirche (St. James’) Church 

After hell (or maybe before), be sure to explore St. Jakob’s Kirche (St. James’ Church). This “small” city church is beautifully constructed and has admirable stained glass. It’s also home to three other must-see items. 

First, the church is currently housing several African sculptures, and selling smaller souvenirs made by African artists and craftsmen. Second, the Holy Blood Altarpiece is housed in the upper back section of the church behind the organ. As the name suggests, this beautifully hand-carved “high alter” contains a relic: several drops of Jesus’ blood.

Finally, be sure to stop by and say hello to St. James outside the main entrance of the church. He wears the garb of a traveler and marks Rothenburg as one of the stops on the Camino de Santiago through central Germany. 

This includes the best things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, but there is so much more if you have more time to explore.

Valerie Stimac runs the travel site Valerie & Valise as well as other sites, including one focused on helping you plan London travel since you’ll already be exploring Europe. 

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Germany’s Leader Walks a Fine Line in China

Chancellor Olaf Scholz tried to promote German business interests while delivering warnings from Europe about trade and geopolitical tensions.

By Alexandra Stevenson and Melissa Eddy

Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany tried to strike a delicate balance on a trip to China this week, promoting business ties with his country’s biggest trading partner while raising concerns over its surge of exports to Europe and its support for Russia.

Mr. Scholz met with China’s top leader, Xi Jinping, at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing on Tuesday, the culmination of a three-day visit with a delegation of German officials and business leaders. He also met with Premier Li Qiang as the two countries navigate relations strained by Russia’s war in Ukraine and China’s rivalry with the United States, Germany’s most important ally.

Throughout his trip, Mr. Scholz promoted the interests of German companies that are finding it increasingly hard to compete in China. And he conveyed growing concern in the European Union that the region’s market is becoming a dumping ground for Chinese goods produced at a loss .

But Mr. Scholz chose a conciliatory tone over a combative one in his opening remarks before sitting down with Mr. Xi on Tuesday morning, in a meeting that stretched over three hours and turned into a walk and lunch.

It was the German leader’s first visit to China since his government adopted a strategy last year that defined the Asian power as a “partner, competitor and systemic rival ,” calling on Germany to reduce its dependency on Chinese goods.

Germany’s economy shrank last year, and its weaknesses have exposed a reliance on China for growth. Energy prices have risen because of the war in Ukraine, which has been facilitated by Beijing’s support for the Kremlin. German companies have pushed for more access to China and complained that they face unfair competition .

The chancellor visited German companies with extensive investments in China and met with trade representatives and officials in the sprawling industrial metropolis of Chongqing in China’s southwest and in Shanghai and Beijing.

At a talk with a group of students in Shanghai on Monday, Mr. Scholz fielded a question from a student who planned to study in Germany this year, who said he was “really worried” because the country had partially legalized cannabis. “When you study in Berlin, you can run around the whole time and never meet anyone who does that,” the chancellor assured him.

But he also used the platform to push more serious messages about trade. “Competition must be fair,” Mr. Scholz told the students. “We want a level playing field,” he said.

Mr. Scholz’s trip was an example of the difficult dance that Germany is trying to do: maintaining economic ties with China while managing U.S. pressure to align itself more closely with Washington against Beijing.

In his meetings, Mr. Scholz highlighted Germany’s commitment to doing business with China, but he also warned that Beijing had to curb the flood of Chinese goods into Europe. At the same time, he expressed reservations about the European Union’s investigations into China’s use of subsidies for green technology industries, saying that any discussion about trade must be based on fairness.

“This must be done from a position of self-confident competitiveness and not from protectionist motives,” Mr. Scholz told reporters on Monday.

China’s manufacturing push in green sectors like electric cars and solar panels has touched off trade disputes with Europe and the United States, where such industries have also received government support. But with 5,000 German companies active in the Chinese market, Germany stands to lose more than many of its European partners would if Beijing were to retaliate against the European Union.

“If the E.U. goes too hard against China, we could expect countermeasures and this would be a catastrophe for us,” said Maximilian Butek, the executive director of the German Chamber of Commerce in China.

“For us it’s extremely important that the Chinese market remains open,” he said.

In his meeting with Mr. Xi, Mr. Scholz indicated that Russia’s war on Ukraine and its arms buildup were high on his agenda. “They directly affect our core interests. Indirectly, they damage the entire international order,” he said in opening remarks at the meeting, a transcript of which was provided by Mr. Scholz’s office.

Despite pressing the issue with Mr. Xi, he did not appear to win the commitment that he had sought from the Chinese leader to take part in an international conference for Ukraine planned in June. Germany had hoped that China could use its influence over Russia to help work toward a peace agreement.

Germany would also like China stop selling goods to Russia that have potential uses on the battlefield, and Mr. Scholz told reporters that he had brought up the issue in his meeting. “The point has been made,” he said. “There can be no misunderstanding about how we see things.”

China is hoping to drive a wedge between Europe and the United States by courting leaders such as Mr. Scholz. State media reports depicted his visit as demonstrating the strength of China’s relations with Europe, playing up its economic ties with Germany.

In his opening remarks to Mr. Scholz, Mr. Xi said cooperation between China and Germany, which have the second- and third-largest economies, was beneficial to the world, a remark that could be read as directed at those who have urged Berlin to distance itself from Beijing.

“The two countries should view and develop bilateral relations from a long-term and strategic perspective and work together to inject more stability and certainty into the world,” Mr. Xi told Mr. Scholz, emphasizing the importance of seeking “common ground.”

Beijing is sure to welcome the message that German businesses are committed to China. The Asian giant is trying to court foreign investment to reinvigorate its economy, which has faltered because of a housing slowdown. Some Western businesses and investors have also been rattled by Mr. Xi’s emphasis on national security, which they regard as making it riskier to operate in the country.

From China’s perspective, Germany may be its best hope of delaying or watering down any trade restrictions from Europe, said Noah Barkin, a senior adviser in the China practice at the Rhodium Group, a research firm.

German carmakers have invested billions of dollars in China, and much of their revenue comes from there. Many worry that if the European Commission imposes higher tariffs on Chinese exports, and Beijing retaliates, German businesses will suffer most.

Chinese officials “know that German companies are heavily invested and they use that politically to influence political decision making in Berlin,” Mr. Barkin said.

Germany’s biggest companies, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz and BASF, have large operations in China and strong, effective lobbies in Berlin, Mr. Barkin added. Executives from those companies, along with several others, traveled with Mr. Scholz to China.

“The supply chain in China is stuffed with German goods,” said Joerg Wuttke, a former president of the E.U. Chamber of Commerce in China. “If China has a price war with Germany, then no one will make money anymore.”

Mr. Scholz also brought along the German ministers for agriculture, the environment and transportation, officials who experts said would be particularly interested in working with China.

“You set an agenda with these three ministers, the tonality is overall a cooperative one, these are areas that we want to work on,” said Janka Oertel, director of the Asia Program at the European Council on Foreign Relations.

Chinese officials, for their part, have brushed off the European accusations of unfair trading practices, calling them groundless and an act of “ typical protectionism .” They have hinted that they could retaliate for any actions taken by the European Union, saying that China was “strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes” its investigations.

In an interview with the German newspaper Handelsblatt, Wu Ken, China’s ambassador to Germany, said the competitive edge of Chinese electric vehicles “relies on innovation, not subsidies.”

“The challenge faced by developed countries lies more in the fact that Chinese companies are more efficient,” the ambassador said.

Vivian Wang contributed reporting from Beijing and Zixu Wang from Hong Kong.

Alexandra Stevenson is the Shanghai bureau chief for The Times, reporting on China’s economy and society. More about Alexandra Stevenson

Melissa Eddy is based in Berlin and reports on Germany’s politics, businesses and its economy. More about Melissa Eddy

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Germany’s Scholz lobbies China’s Xi to improve market access, pressure Russia

BEIJING - German Chancellor Olaf Scholz lobbied for better market access for German firms in China in talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on April 16 and urged him to exert pressure on Russia to withdraw its forces from Ukraine.

The talks with Mr Xi capped a three-day tour of China during which Mr Scholz walked a tightrope, conveying growing concerns in Europe about Beijing’s economic policies and support for Russia while also promoting business ties with Germany’s largest trade partner.

The visit was the first since Berlin agreed a China strategy outlining the need to reduce strategic dependencies on Chinese goods, and since the EU launched several investigations into whether Chinese manufacturers are dumping subsidised goods on its market.

Mr Scholz, who met for more than three hours with Mr Xi, before later seeing Premier Li Qiang, said he had pressed the case for China to guarantee German firms equal market access, the protection of intellectual property and a reliable legal system.

“I expressed my concern... that unilateral economic policy decisions in China are creating major structural difficulties for companies in Germany and Europe,” he said, noting he hoped this would quickly lead to practical solutions.

On the EU anti-subsidy investigations, Mr Scholz said the bloc should not act out of protectionist self-interest but competition should be fair and that it is important to establish processes to ensure this. He said he discussed with Mr Xi the role of the World Trade Organisation.

Mr Xi showed little willingness to make concessions, saying Chinese green tech exports have “not only enriched global supply and alleviated inflationary pressure, but also contributed greatly to the response to climate change”.

“(Germany and China) should be vigilant against rising protectionism,” Mr Xi said.

No alternative to Chinese market

Mr Scholz was joined on his trip by senior German executives, such as Mr Ola Kallenius, chairman of Mercedes-Benz, and Mr Oliver Zipse, chief executive of BMW, underlining the importance of the Chinese market to Europe’s largest economy.

Sino-German commercial ties should not only be cultivated but expanded, Mr Kallenius told German broadcaster ARD in Beijing on April 16.

“Withdrawing from such a large market is not an alternative, but rather strengthening our position,” he said about the company’s strategy in China, the world’s second-largest economy.

BMW’s Mr Zipse expressed a similar view. “We actually see more opportunities than risks,” he told the ARD news programme Tagesschau.

Mr Xi told Mr Scholz that China and Germany have “huge potential” for cooperation in both traditional fields such as machinery manufacturing and automobiles and emerging fields including green transformation and digital artificial intelligence.

China has also lifted restrictions on imports of beef and apples from Germany, Mr Scholz said.

Critics worried that the trip - Mr Scholz’s longest bilateral visit anywhere since taking office in 2021 - is a sign Germany is not serious about diversifying trade and will continue to prioritise short-term financial gain over long-term security.

Pressure on Russia?

Regarding Russia’s two-year-old full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Mr Scholz said he asked Mr Xi “to exert pressure on Russia so that (President Vladimir) Putin finally calls off his insane campaign, withdraws his troops and ends this terrible war”.

Both leaders agreed they rejected attacks on nuclear facilities such as nuclear power plants, Mr Scholz said, alluding to strikes on the Zaporizhzhia complex in Russian-held southern Ukraine that the two sides have blamed on each other.

But Mr Xi appeared to dismiss a peace summit in Switzerland requested by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and scheduled for June that Russia has made clear it will not attend.

China supports all efforts towards peaceful resolution, Mr Xi said, such as an international peace conference recognised by both Russia and Ukraine with equal participation by all parties.

Before the trip, German officials had said Beijing’s support and exports to Russia were enabling Moscow to wage a war of aggression in Ukraine and causing a “growing loss of reputation for China” in Europe and beyond.

Mr Scholz further said he had discussed at length with Mr Xi the supply of dual-use goods to Russia.

“There can be no misunderstanding as to how we see things,” he said, without clarifying whether he had extracted any kind of commitment from China to limit such exports. REUTERS

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Saluki Takeover Tour stretches across Southern Illinois

Southern Illinois University | Thursday, April 18, 2024

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April 16, 2024

CARBONDALE, Ill. – The Saluki Takeover Tour of Southern Illinois is coming to a town near you.

After successful events in Chicago, St. Louis, Springfield (Illinois), Florida and Nashville (Tennessee), the Saluki Takeover Tour will visit all 17 of the region’s counties from April 24 through May 4.

“Saluki spirit is evident everywhere we go, but it has its roots right here in Southern Illinois,” said Southern Illinois University Carbondale Chancellor Austin A. Lane. “These takeover tour events are a terrific opportunity for our local alumni and friends to engage with our leadership and share their Saluki experience with others.”

Lane will host the keystone event, Southern Illinois Celebration, from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 4, at Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort. The event will feature the recognition of multiple incoming and potential SIU Carbondale students. There will also be SIU Day of Giving trophy presentations, a celebration of the university’s recent successes and a chance to thank local partners. Many representatives from SIU Carbondale will be in attendance, including new men’s basketball coach Scott Nagy.

Before the Walker’s Bluff event, there will be many visits to local schools and five Chancellor’s Receptions across the region. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to register for each reception at siuf.org/southern-illinois .

The Office of Innovation and Economic Development at SIU and the Small Business Navigator Program are partnering with local organizations to offer Business Resource Meet Ups. The purpose of these events is to provide valuable insights into the Advantage Illinois Loan Program, along with detailed information on the services of the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the Illinois APEX Accelerator program at SIU. More information about these meet ups can be found at bizhelp.siu.edu .

All receptions and meet ups are free to attend. Southern Illinois Takeover Tour events include:

Wednesday, April 24

• School visits: Benton Consolidated High School, Hamilton County High School, Carmi-White County High School and Mount Vernon Township High School
• Business Resource Meet Up: 4:30 p.m., Innovation Hub, Mount Vernon
• Chancellor’s Reception: 6 to 8 p.m., The Granada Theatre, Mount Vernon

Thursday, April 25

• School visits: Marion High School, Johnston City High School, Gallatin County High School and Harrisburg High School
• Business Resource Meet Up: noon, MAN-TRA-CON Corp. and Greater Egypt Regional Planning and Development Commission offices, Marion, and 4:30 p.m. Morello’s, Harrisburg
• Chancellor’s Reception: 6 to 8 p.m., Morello’s, Harrisburg

Friday, April 26

• School visits: Murphysboro High School, Chester High School and Du Quoin High School
• Business Resource Meet Up: 4:30 p.m., Alongi’s Italian Restaurant, Du Quoin
• Chancellor’s Reception: 6 to 8 p.m., St. Nicholas Brewing Co., Du Quoin

Monday, April 29

• School visits: Vienna High School, Meridian High School, Cairo High School, Anna Jonesboro High School and Cobden High School
• Business Resource Meet Up: noon, First Baptist Missionary Church, Cairo, and 4:30 p.m., Media Center at Vienna High School
• Chancellor’s Reception: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Alto Vineyards

Tuesday, April 30

• Business Resource Meet Up: 4:30 p.m., Carbondale Civic Center

Wednesday, May 1

• School visits: Carterville High School, Carbondale Community High School, Herrin High School and John A. Logan College
• Business Resource Meet Up: 4:30 p.m., United Methodist Church, Golconda
• Chancellor’s Reception: 6 to 8 p.m., Fat Edd’s Roadhouse, Metropolis

Saturday, May 4

• Southern Illinois Celebration : 6 to 8 p.m., Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort, Carterville 

For more information, call 618-453-4900 or email [email protected] .

Media Advisory

Reporters, photographers, and news crews are invited to cover any or all of the Southern Illinois Saluki Takeover Tour Chancellor’s Receptions and the Southern Illinois Celebration, where SIU Carbondale Chancellor Austin A. Lane will be available for interviews. For assistance with interviews with the chancellor, text or call Jeff Harmon, SIU’s chief communications and marketing officer, at 573-352-0035.

There will be six receptions at various locations from April 24 through May 4. The largest will be the May 4 Southern Illinois Celebration at Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort, which will feature the recognition of multiple incoming students, include a trophy presentation for the SIU Day of Giving and celebrate the university’s recent successes.

The schedule of receptions is:

Wednesday, April 24, 6 to 8 p.m., The Granada Theatre, Mount Vernon

Thursday, April 25, 6 to 8 p.m., Morello’s, Harrisburg

Friday, April 26, 6 to 8 p.m., St. Nicholas Brewing Co., Du Quoin

Monday, April 29, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Alto Vineyards

Wednesday, May 1, 6 to 8 p.m., Fat Edd’s Roadhouse, Metropolis

Wednesday, May 4, Southern Illinois Celebration, 6 to 8 p.m., Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort, Carterville

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Update 7-germany's scholz lobbies xi to improve market access, pressure russia.

Scholz meets Xi on final day of three-day tour of China

Pushes for better access to China's market for German firms

Urges China to pressure Russia to end Ukraine invasion

Carmaker CEOs with Scholz see more opportunities than risks

(Adds new Scholz comments on subsidies, paragraph 6; China lifting restrictions on some imports, 14; Xi on Zelenskiy peace talks proposal, 18-19; context throughout)

By Andreas Rinke

BEIJING, April 16 (Reuters) - German Chancellor Olaf Scholz lobbied for better market access for German firms in China in talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday and urged him to exert pressure on Russia to withdraw its forces from Ukraine.

The talks with Xi capped a three-day tour of China during which Scholz walked a tightrope, conveying growing concerns in Europe about Beijing's economic policies and support for Russia while also promoting business ties with Germany's largest trade partner.

The visit was the first since Berlin agreed a China strategy outlining the need to reduce strategic dependencies on Chinese goods, and since the European Union launched several investigations into whether Chinese manufacturers are dumping subsidised goods on its market.

Scholz, who met for more than three hours with Xi, before later seeing Premier Li Qiang, said he had pressed the case for China to guarantee German firms equal market access, the protection of intellectual property and a reliable legal system.

"I expressed my concern ... that unilateral economic policy decisions in China are creating major structural difficulties for companies in Germany and Europe," he said, noting he hoped this would quickly lead to practical solutions.

On the EU anti-subsidy investigations, Scholz said the bloc should not act out of protectionist self-interest but competition should be fair and that it is important to establish processes to ensure this. He said he discussed with Xi the role of the World Trade Organization.

Xi showed little willingness to make concessions, saying Chinese green tech exports have "not only enriched global supply and alleviated inflationary pressure, but also contributed greatly to the response to climate change".

"(Germany and China) should be vigilant against rising protectionism," Xi said.

NO ALTERNATIVE TO CHINESE MARKET

Scholz was joined on his trip by senior German executives, such as Ola Kallenius, chairman of Mercedes-Benz, and Oliver Zipse, chief executive of BMW, underlining the importance of the Chinese market to Europe's largest economy.

Sino-German commercial ties should not only be cultivated but expanded, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius told German broadcaster ARD in Beijing on Tuesday.

"Withdrawing from such a large market is not an alternative, but rather strengthening our position," he said about the company's strategy in China, the world's second largest economy.

BMW CEO Oliver Zipse expressed a similar view. "We actually see more opportunities than risks," he told the ARD news programme Tagesschau.

Xi told Scholz that China and Germany have "huge potential" for cooperation in both traditional fields such as machinery manufacturing and automobiles and emerging fields including green transformation and digital artificial intelligence.

China has also lifted restrictions on imports of beef and apples from Germany, Scholz said.

Critics worried that the trip - Scholz's longest bilateral visit anywhere since taking office in 2021 - is a sign Germany is not serious about diversifying trade and will continue to prioritise short-term financial gain over long-term security.

PRESSURE ON RUSSIA?

Regarding Russia's two-year-old full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Scholz said he asked Xi "to exert pressure on Russia so that (President Vladimir) Putin finally calls off his insane campaign, withdraws his troops and ends this terrible war".

Both leaders agreed they rejected attacks on nuclear facilities such as nuclear power plants, Scholz said, alluding to strikes on the Zaporizhzhia complex in Russian-held southern Ukraine that the two sides have blamed on each other.

But Xi appeared to dismiss a peace summit in Switzerland requested by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and scheduled for June that Russia has made clear it will not attend.

China supports all efforts towards peaceful resolution, Xi said, such as an international peace conference recognised by both Russia and Ukraine with equal participation by all parties.

Before the trip, German officials had said Beijing's support and exports to Russia were enabling Moscow to wage a war of aggression in Ukraine and causing a "growing loss of reputation for China" in Europe and beyond.

Scholz further said he had discussed at length with Xi the supply of dual-use goods to Russia.

"There can be no misunderstanding as to how we see things," he said, without clarifying whether he had extracted any kind of commitment from China to limit such exports. ($1=0.9426 euros) (Reporting by Andreas Rinke and the Beijing Bureau; Additional Reporting by Matthias Williams in Berlin; Writing by Ryan Woo and Sarah Marsh; editing by Miral Fahmy, Clarence Fernandez, Alex Richardson and Mark Heinrich)

Scholz warns Iran as attacks on Israel overshadow China trip

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Reporting by Andreas Rinke in Chongqing and Sarah Marsh in Berlin; Editing by Antoni Slodkowski and Miral Fahmy, William Maclean

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