This exciting train itinerary will take you through four of Germany’s most beloved cities. Start by exploring Berlin’s fascinating history and alternative culture, then head south to Dresden to sample wine surrounded by stately elegance. Next, get lost in Nuremberg’s quaint, cobbled streets before you sip your way through Munich’s famous beer gardens. An easy train ride between each city makes this trip low on stress and high on fun for the perfect getaway.
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- Visit the Berlin Wall and explore the city's vibrant street art scene
- Taste wine at a castle in Dresden, overlooking the River Elbe
- Stroll through the picturesque streets of Nuremberg's Old Town
- Sample Munich's finest pours in its historic beer halls and gardens
Welcome to Germany! Upon arrival in Berlin, your driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Take some time to settle, then head out to explore Germany's vibrant capital at your own pace. To get a sense of its history, explore some of the remaining sections of the Berlin Wall and its murals. Start at the East Side Gallery to view some of its most culture-shaping images, such as "Fraternal Kiss," "Test the Best," or Thierry Noir's cartoon heads. Then visit Checkpoint Charlie and the nearby Topography of Terror Museum to learn about life here from the Nazi era through to Reunification.Next, you'll head to the hip Kreuzberg district, the heart of Berlin's countercultural movement, for a three-hour small group tour to uncover its history and its continued pushback against gentrification. Starting at the Oberbaumbrücke, Berlin's landmark double-deck bridge over the River Spree, you'll pass remains of the Berlin Wall and visit art-lined streets and creative hubs. Experience the district's Turkish influence as you linger at its colorful flower and spice markets and take a break at the idyllic Viktoriapark with its 79-foot-high (24 m) manmade waterfall.Round off your tour with a bite to eat and a craft beer in the historic Markthalle 9. The district is also a good one to return to (much) later in the evening if you want to experience Berlin's famous nightlife.
Day 2: Train to Dresden, Bike Tour & Wine Tasting
This morning, head to the Hauptbahnhof (Berlin's railway station) and catch your train to Dresden. Once you've arrived, head to your accommodation and get settled. Then head to Neumarkt, in central Dresden, to begin a 3.5-hour bike tour—the perfect way to discover the city's hidden gems and most picturesque points of interest. While you're still at Neumarkt Square, be sure to pop into the Frauenkirche and look around. This extraordinary Lutheran church was destroyed during the bombing of Dresden and rebuilt true to its ornate Baroque style after Reunification.
Next, enjoy a leisurely ride alongside the River Elbe, passing by three castles while your guide talks you through Dresden's history. Make a stop at the Albrechtsberg Castle for a one-hour tour of its beautiful vineyards and wine tasting. The castle itself is a lovely example of neo-Renaissance architecture, so if time allows, take a quick tour. Afterward, hop back on your bike for a relaxing ride back into the inner city. Head out for the evening on your own―whether you're after a cozy pub or a trendy restaurant, Dresden caters to all tastes.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Dresden before you catch a train to Nuremberg. Located in Bavaria, this picturesque city is one of the Free State's largest. Famous for its half-timbered housing, you'll get a good sense of why it's such a beloved destination by spending the rest of the day exploring the undeniably pretty Altstadt (Old Town). Once you've found your accommodation and dropped off your bags, head out to explore―there are some great walking tours, or look around at your own pace.
Start by strolling along the city's medieval walls and surrounding parkland before proceeding through the Altstadt. Suggested stops include the Handwerkerhof (Craftsmen's Courtyard), a great place to buy souvenirs, the impressive Church of St Lawrence, rebuilt in its original Gothic style after World War II, as well as the Town Hall and the Imperial Castle. Art lovers should stop off at Albrecht Dürer's house on the scenic Tiergärtnertorplatz, while picnic lovers can linger in the Castle Gardens, a scenic place to rest for a while and take in the views.
You'll also find plenty of great spots to eat in the Altstadt―Nuremberg is famous for its sausages, beer, cheeses, and other traditional German delicacies, so make the most of it!
Day 4: Train to Munich, Afternoon Beer Tour
Today begins with another relaxing train ride. This time you're being swept off to Bavaria's famous capital, Munich, where you'll have a few hours of free time to explore on your own. Start by spending some time exploring the charming Altstadt, including the two town halls on the Marienplatz (keep an eye out for the Glockenspiel clock). The Marienplatz is also within easy walking distance of other major landmarks, such as the twin-domed Frauenkirch and the Alter Peter.
For something quirkier, head to one of Munich's more unexpected main attractions, the Eisbach. This man-made river in the scenic Englischer Garten is a hotspot for surfers. Or take a dip yourself at the beautiful Art Nouveau Volksbad (public swimming pool), where you can also experience one of Germany's most popular pastimes, the sauna.
Unsurprisingly, as the home of Germany's famous Oktoberfest, Munich's brewers craft some of the world's best beer. With a local guide, you'll discover the city's most historic beer halls and gardens during a fun afternoon beer tour. Snack on Germany's culinary specialties along the way, from pretzels and schnitzel to schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) and obazda (a tasty cheese spread).
