Germany·16 - 23 July 2025

A Fairytale Journey Through Germany's Heartland

Travel with us from hipster Berlin to the elegant palaces of Bavaria ending in marvelous Munich.

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Overview

Germany’s contrasts will surprise and delight you. The grandiose beauty of the Bavarian Alps, with their stunning palaces, offers a serene escape into a fairytale world. In contrast, Berlin pulses with life, a city that wears its history proudly while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. 'Berlin, the greatest cultural extravaganza that one could imagine’ David Bowie once declared. In Berlin, we'll delve into the city’s majestic and turbulent past, uncovering layers of history from the grandeur of Prussian kings to the shadows of the Cold War. We'll walk through the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of unity and peace, and explore Frederick the Great’s magnificent castle in Potsdam, a testament to royal opulence. Our journey through time continues with a visit to the Boros Collection, where modern art thrives in a former World War II bunker, showcasing Berlin's spirit of transformation and resilience. As we navigate this vibrant city, we'll indulge in local culinary delights, savoring the flavors of döner kebab and Berlin’s famous currywurst, each bite a story of the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Today Berlin is one of the most exciting, artistic cities in Europe. In Munich, our journey takes a turn towards tradition and timeless charm. We'll raise our steins in a historic beer cellar, toasting to the spirit of camaraderie and Bavarian hospitality. The Bavarian countryside awaits with its picturesque landscapes and storybook villages. Traveling along the Romantic Road, we'll be enchanted by multicolored towns like Dinkelsbühl and Nördlingen, each with unique character and beauty. The extraordinary castles, like the iconic Neuschwanstein, will transport us into a world of fantasy and inspiration, where fairytales come to life amid the breathtaking Alpine backdrop. Throughout this journey, led by a German American, we'll experience the dynamic contrasts that define Germany, from its storied past to its vibrant present, and glimpse the promising future.

Highlights

Enjoy a private tour in an East German car

Enjoy a private tour in an East German car

Visit the Boros Collection and discover  modern art in a WWII bunker

Visit the Boros Collection and discover modern art in a WWII bunker

Explore the Sanssouci Palace and Gardens in Potsdam

Explore the Sanssouci Palace and Gardens in Potsdam

Visit the iconic Neuschwanstein castle in the foothills of the Alps

Visit the iconic Neuschwanstein castle in the foothills of the Alps

Experience a steamer cruise in Potsdam

Experience a steamer cruise in Potsdam

Visit Berlin’s iconic landmarks and explore Munich's historic center

Visit Berlin’s iconic landmarks and explore Munich's historic center

Itinerary

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Berlin

Day 1: Wednesday, July 16th, 2025

Welcome to the vibrant city of Berlin! A representative will greet you at the airport and escort you to the Telegraphenamt Hotel, a beautifully restored historic building in the heart of Berlin. This stylish boutique hotel provides an ideal base for our German adventure.

Later this afternoon, we will gather in the hotel lobby for a welcome drink. This is a great opportunity to get to know each other before embarking on our exciting journey.

Following our meet-and-greet, we’ll hop into a traditional East German car for a unique city tour. As we drive through Berlin, you’ll get an intriguing first glimpse of this dynamic city’s rich history and vibrant present.

This evening, we’ll dine at the iconic Lutter & Wegner, a traditional German restaurant that has delighted guests since 1811. Savor the flavors of authentic German cuisine as we toast to the start of our adventure.

Included

Dinner

Not Included

Breakfast

Lunch

DAY2

Berlin

Day 2: Thursday, July 17th, 2025

After a hearty hotel breakfast, we’ll explore Berlin’s historic sites with an expert guide. We’ll visit the iconic Brandenburg Gate, the impressive Reichstag building, Checkpoint Charlie, and the poignant Holocaust Memorial.

For lunch, we’ll indulge in Berlin’s best wiener schnitzel at a renowned local eatery. Afterward, we’ll visit the Boros Collection, a fascinating modern art collection housed in a World War II bunker.

Our afternoon will continue with a leisurely stroll around the Hackescher Hof, a vibrant area filled with galleries, shops, and cafes. This evening, we’ll enjoy a delightful dinner at our hotel’s stylish restaurant, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.

Included

All meals

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Potsdam & Berlin

Day 3: Friday, July 18th, 2025

Today, we journey to Potsdam, the royal retreat of Prussian kings. It's just a short drive from Berlin. We’ll explore the magnificent Sanssouci Palace and its enchanting gardens, a true testament to Prussian grandeur.

After a delicious lunch in Potsdam’s charming Dutch district, we’ll take a steamer cruise through the lake district. Marvel at the beautiful Italian villas and the historic Cecilienhof, the site of the famous post-World War II conference in 1945.

This evening, we’ll return to Berlin, and after an eventful day enjoy dinner on your own. 

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Berlin

Day 4: Saturday, July 19th, 2025

After breakfast, immerse yourself in Berlin’s Cold War history with a visit to the DDR Museum: Berlin's Interactive Museum. This interactive museum transports you back to the era of a divided Germany, offering a fascinating glimpse into daily life behind the Iron Curtain.

For lunch, we’ll enjoy casual yet delicious fare at one of Berlin’s best imbisses, sampling döner kebab and currywurst. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Berlin Wall and the Palace of Tears, sites telling poignant stories of separation and hope.

Dinner is at the celebrated Café Frieda in Prenzlauer Berg, where we’ll savor contemporary German cuisine in a lively neighborhood setting.

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Berlin - Munich

Day 5: Sunday, July 20th, 2024

This morning, we depart Berlin and take a scenic train ride to Munich, enjoying a leisurely lunch en route. On arrival, we’ll check into the lovely and historic 4-star Eden Hotel Wolff in Munich’s historic center. You'll love the Alpine Style Rooms.

After settling in, we’ll explore Munich’s rich history with a guided tour of the city’s landmarks. This evening, we’ll feast on traditional Bavarian dishes at the iconic Hofbräuhaus, raising our steins to a day well spent.

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Day 6: Monday, July 21st, 2024

Today, we start our journey along the Romantic Road, visiting some of Bavaria’s most picturesque villages. Our first stop is Harburg Castle, one of Germany’s oldest fortifications, followed by the brightly colored village of Dinkelsbühl, famed for its role in "The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm."

We’ll enjoy a delightful lunch in a traditional beer garden before continuing to the walled town of Nördlingen. After returning to Munich, you’ll have the evening free to explore or relax at your leisure.

Not Included

Dinner

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Bavarian Alps

Day 7: Tuesday, July 22nd, 2024

After breakfast at the hotel, our day begins with a visit to the enchanting Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration behind Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, this fairytale castle offers breathtaking views and stunning architecture.

After lunch at a nearby inn, we’ll visit the opulent Linderhof Palace, a small but lavish retreat surrounded by beautiful woodlands. This evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner at the Michelin-starred restaurant Mural, celebrating our journey through Germany’s past, present, and future.

Included

All meals

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Farewells

Day 8: Wednesday, July 23rd, 2024

After a delightful breakfast, we’ll bid farewell to our new friends and the beautiful country of Germany. As you reflect on our adventure, we hope you leave with wonderful memories and a newfound appreciation for Germany’s rich history and vibrant culture! 

Included

Breakfast

You'll Be Staying Here

Telegraphenamt

Telegraphenamt

A beautifully restored historic building located in the heart of Berlin. The Telegrphenamt boutique hotel is the perfect base for exploring the city's rich history and vibrant culture.


Eden Hotel Wolff

Eden Hotel Wolff

This 4-star hotel has operated since 1890 and is directly across from the train station. There is a lovely wellness spa where you can relax and recuperate. 

Hosts

Katrin Hodapp

Katrin Hodapp

A 25-year resident in her adopted Paris. Katrin has turned from a career as an international literary agent where she was responsible for number 1 bestselling authors in France to sharing her passion for literature, travel, and art. She speaks five languages fluently and is an active translator in the film industry when not guiding visitors in France, Holland, Germany, and Morocco. She's always keen to find the perfect view, the ideal Bistro, and hidden gem to make the trips she leads seamless and memorable. 

Price

Private Room

Private Room

Everyone gets their own fabulous room!

FROM$8,925

Base-Trip Shared Room

Base-Trip Shared Room

Share a room with a friend or family member

FROM$7,995

Add Ons

Arrive one day in Berlin

Arrive one day in Berlin

Includes one night and breakfast at the Hotel Telegraphenamt Hotel

PRICE$550.00

ADD THIS

History, culture, and breathtaking views

Germany - Berlin and Castles

Wander through Berlin's iconic sites, from the historic Brandenburg Gate to the bustling Reichstag, and feel the city's creative pulse in its vibrant neighborhoods. In Munich, soak up the rich Bavarian traditions as you explore the city's historic center and enjoy hearty local cuisine. Travel along the Romantic Road, visiting charming villages and stunning castles like Neuschwanstein, perched majestically in the Alps.

Germany - Berlin and Castles

What's Included

What's Included

Everything specified in the itinerary

All meals (except where indicated), including beer & wine with dinner

Accommodations at unique, 4-star or better hotels

All transportation during the trip (except where indicated)

Expert guides and trip leaders

A small group experience

Welcome drink

Day trip to Potsdam

Guided tours of Berlin’s historic sites

Visit to the Boros Collection of modern art

Stroll around Hackescher Hof

Steamer cruise in Potsdam’s lake district

Visit to the DDR Museum

Tour of the Berlin Wall and Palace of Tears

Train journey from Berlin to Munich

Guided tour of Munich’s historic center

Day tour of the Romantic Road

Visit to Neuschwanstein Castle

Visit to Linderhof Palace

Airport transfers in Berlin and Munich

Train journey from Berlin to Munich

Farewell dinner at Michelin-starred restaurant Mural

Complimentary welcome cocktail on the Ljubljanica River cruise

Additional wine, beer, and/or spirits beyond what’s offered at meals

All personal souvenirs

Travel and medical insurance (required)

Any spa treatment desired

Round-trip airfare to Germany

Airport transfers in Berlin and Munich

FAQs

You should fly into Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), which serves the city of Berlin. This airport will be your starting point for the tour, and a representative will greet you on arrival.

Plan to arrive in Berlin by midday or early afternoon on Day One of the itinerary. This will give you ample time to check into the Telegraphenamt Hotel. Consider arriving a day early so you have time to relax and adjust to the local time zone. If you do decide to arrive early, please let us know and we will take care of booking your room for you and ensure that you are kept in the same room as you will be in when the trip starts.

We will have a zoom call about 10 weeks before the trip starts to discuss all that information and give you a packing list. Here is a great website that we love that will help you with packing and travel trips.

In July, Germany enjoys warm and pleasant weather, ideal for travel. In Berlin, expect temperatures from 59 to 77°F (15 to 25°C), with mostly sunny skies and occasional rain showers. Munich experiences similar conditions, with temperatures ranging from 57 to 75°F (14 to 24°C) and a chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Pack a light jacket for cooler evenings and an umbrella for unexpected rain.

Inquire about this trip

A Fairytale Journey Through Germany's Heartland

Germany· 16 - 23 July 2025· 7 nights

FROM$8,925/pp