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Two Weeks Through Germany's Heart & Soul

From Berlin's History to Bavaria's Fairy Tales

Trip Overview

This comprehensive two-week journey takes you through Germany's most captivating regions, blending iconic historical landmarks with charming medieval towns and stunning natural landscapes. Begin in dynamic Berlin, exploring its powerful history and vibrant culture, then venture through the romantic Rhine Valley and historic Cologne. Discover the enchanting university town of Heidelberg before heading south to Bavaria's fairy-tale castles and alpine scenery. Experience the UNESCO-listed Bamberg, the dramatic Harz Mountains, and the picturesque Romantic Road. This itinerary balances major attractions with authentic local experiences, allowing time to savor regional cuisine, explore hidden corners, and absorb each destination's unique character. The pace is moderate, with some early starts balanced by leisurely afternoons and evenings to enjoy Germany's renowned beer gardens and traditional restaurants.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$120-180 per day
Best Seasons
May to September for best weather; December for Christmas markets; April and October for fewer crowds
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Germany, History enthusiasts, Culture lovers, Couples seeking romantic destinations, Photography enthusiasts, Architecture admirers

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival & Berlin's Historic Core

Berlin
Arrive in Germany's capital and dive straight into its most iconic landmarks, exploring the Brandenburg Gate area and the powerful history surrounding it.
Morning
Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag Building
Start your German adventure at the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin's most recognizable symbol. Walk through this neoclassical monument and explore the surrounding Pariser Platz. Then head to the nearby Reichstag Building to admire its impressive architecture and glass dome. The area encapsulates centuries of German history from Prussian glory to Cold War division to reunification.
3 hours $0 (exterior viewing)
Book Reichstag dome visits online weeks in advance for interior access
Lunch
A traditional German restaurant near the government quarter
Classic Berlin fare with schnitzel and currywurst Mid-range
Afternoon
Checkpoint Charlie and Berlin Wall history
Visit Checkpoint Charlie, the famous Cold War crossing point between East and West Berlin. Explore the outdoor exhibition detailing dramatic escape attempts and the division of the city. The area provides profound insights into Berlin's recent history and the human stories behind the Iron Curtain. Take time to walk along remaining Wall sections nearby.
2-3 hours $15-20
Evening
Evening stroll and dinner
Walk through the illuminated Brandenburg Gate at dusk, then enjoy dinner at a traditional beer hall in Mitte district with local beers and hearty German cuisine

Where to Stay Tonight

Mitte district (Mid-range hotel near Alexanderplatz)

Central location provides easy access to major sights and excellent public transportation connections for exploring Berlin

Purchase a Berlin WelcomeCard for unlimited public transport and discounts at museums - it pays for itself quickly
Day 1 Budget: $140-180
2

Berlin's Museums & Towers

Berlin
Explore Berlin's cultural treasures on Museum Island and enjoy panoramic city views from the iconic TV Tower.
Morning
Berlin Cathedral and Museum Island
Begin at the magnificent Berlin Cathedral, an impressive Protestant church with stunning interior mosaics and a dome you can climb for excellent views. The building showcases Italian Renaissance-inspired architecture. Afterward, explore Museum Island's world-class collections - choose between the Pergamon Museum, Neues Museum, or Alte Nationalgalerie depending on your interests in ancient civilizations, Egyptian artifacts, or 19th-century art.
3-4 hours $25-35
Buy Museum Island day pass online to skip ticket lines
Lunch
A cafe in the Nikolaiviertel historic quarter
Light German lunch with local specialties Mid-range
Afternoon
Berlin TV Tower and Alexanderplatz
Ascend the iconic Berlin TV Tower for 360-degree views across the city from 203 meters high. On clear days, you can see for 40 kilometers. The observation deck provides excellent photo opportunities and helps orient yourself to Berlin's layout. Afterward, explore Alexanderplatz below, the bustling square that was the heart of East Berlin, now a vibrant shopping and transport hub.
2-3 hours $25-30
Book timed entry tickets online to avoid long queues, especially during peak season
Evening
Explore alternative Berlin
Head to Kreuzberg or Friedrichshain neighborhoods for dinner at an international eatery, then experience Berlin's famous nightlife or visit a rooftop bar

Where to Stay Tonight

Mitte district (Same hotel as Day 1)

Staying put saves time and allows you to explore different Berlin neighborhoods from a central base

Visit the TV Tower at sunset for the best lighting - you'll see both daylight and nighttime Berlin views
Day 2 Budget: $130-170
3

Berlin's Depths & Diversity

Berlin
Experience Berlin's darker history at the Berlin Dungeon, then explore the Victory Column and spend the afternoon in trendy neighborhoods.
Morning
Berlin Dungeon experience
Dive into 600 years of Berlin's dark history through this interactive theatrical experience. Professional actors guide you through plague epidemics, medieval torture, and Cold War espionage in atmospheric underground chambers. While entertaining, it provides genuine historical context about Berlin's tumultuous past. The 90-minute journey combines history education with thrilling entertainment, making it surprisingly informative despite the theatrical presentation.
2 hours $25-30
Book online for discounted tickets and guaranteed entry times
Lunch
A Vietnamese restaurant in Kreuzberg
Berlin's excellent Vietnamese food scene Budget
Afternoon
Victory Column and Tiergarten
Visit the Victory Column, a 67-meter monument commemorating Prussian military victories. Climb the 285 steps to the viewing platform for beautiful views across Tiergarten park and the city beyond. The golden statue on top has become a Berlin icon. Afterward, stroll through the vast Tiergarten park, Berlin's green lung, perfect for relaxing walks among trees, ponds, and monuments.
2-3 hours $5-10
Evening
Final Berlin evening
Enjoy dinner at a modern German restaurant showcasing regional ingredients, then catch a performance at one of Berlin's theaters or simply enjoy drinks in a traditional kneipe pub

Where to Stay Tonight

Mitte district (Same hotel as previous nights)

Last night in Berlin before heading west tomorrow

The Victory Column is often overlooked by tourists but offers some of Berlin's best views without the TV Tower crowds
Day 3 Budget: $120-160
4

Journey to the Rhine Valley

Cologne
Travel west to Cologne and spend the afternoon exploring its magnificent cathedral and charming old town along the Rhine.
Morning
Train journey to Cologne
Take a comfortable high-speed train from Berlin to Cologne, a journey of approximately 4.5 hours through the German countryside. Use this time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and plan your Cologne explorations. The train arrives at Cologne's central station, positioned directly beside the cathedral for a dramatic first impression. Check into your accommodation before beginning your afternoon exploration.
5 hours including check-in $60-90
Book train tickets several weeks in advance for best prices
Lunch
A brewhouse restaurant near the cathedral
Cologne specialties with local Kölsch beer Mid-range
Afternoon
Cologne Cathedral exploration
Marvel at the Cologne Cathedral, one of the world's largest Gothic churches and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The twin spires dominate the skyline at 157 meters tall. Explore the stunning interior with its medieval stained glass windows and climb the 533 steps of the south tower for spectacular Rhine River views. The cathedral took over 600 years to complete and remains Germany's most visited landmark.
2-3 hours $8-12
Evening
Rhine riverside evening
Stroll along the Rhine promenade at sunset, then enjoy dinner at a traditional brewhouse where servers continuously bring small glasses of Kölsch beer until you place your coaster on top

Where to Stay Tonight

Cologne Old Town (Hotel near the cathedral)

Central location allows easy exploration of Cologne's compact historic center and proximity to the Rhine

Cologne Cathedral is free to enter but climbing the tower requires a ticket - go early morning to avoid crowds on the narrow spiral staircase
Day 4 Budget: $150-200
5

Castles Above the Rhine

Rhine Valley
Take a day trip to explore the romantic Rhine Valley and visit the stunning Schloss Drachenburg castle overlooking the river.
Morning
Train to Königswinter and Schloss Drachenburg
Journey south along the Rhine to Königswinter, then ascend to Schloss Drachenburg, a magnificent 19th-century castle perched on the Siebengebirge hills. This fairy-tale palace showcases elaborate historicist architecture with stunning Rhine views. Explore the richly decorated rooms, the beautiful terraced gardens, and the castle's history as a private villa. The setting above the Rhine Valley is spectacular, especially from the castle terraces.
4 hours including travel $25-35
Lunch
A castle restaurant or riverside cafe in Königswinter
Regional Rhineland dishes with river views Mid-range
Afternoon
Rhine Valley exploration
Take a scenic Rhine River cruise or explore the charming riverside towns in the area. The Middle Rhine Valley is dotted with medieval castles, vineyards, and picturesque villages. Consider visiting the Drachenfels ruins nearby or simply enjoying the romantic scenery that has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Return to Cologne in the late afternoon.
3 hours $15-25
Evening
Cologne evening leisure
Return to Cologne for dinner in the Belgian Quarter, known for trendy restaurants and cafes, or revisit the Old Town for more traditional atmosphere

Where to Stay Tonight

Cologne Old Town (Same hotel as previous night)

Convenient base for Rhine Valley day trip with easy train connections

Take the Drachenfelsbahn rack railway up to Schloss Drachenburg instead of walking - it's Germany's oldest rack railway and part of the experience
Day 5 Budget: $140-180
6

Heidelberg's Romantic Charm

Heidelberg
Travel south to Heidelberg and explore Germany's oldest university town, crowned by its magnificent castle ruins.
Morning
Journey to Heidelberg and castle visit
Take a morning train to Heidelberg (about 2.5 hours), then ascend to Heidelberg Castle, one of Germany's most romantic ruins. This Renaissance masterpiece overlooks the Neckar River and old town from its hillside perch. Explore the partially ruined palace rooms, the famous Great Barrel wine cask, and the German Pharmacy Museum. The castle's blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture tells stories of princely splendor and dramatic destruction.
4 hours including travel $50-70
Take the funicular railway up to the castle for best experience
Lunch
A traditional restaurant in Heidelberg's old town
Regional Baden cuisine with local wines Mid-range
Afternoon
Old Town exploration
Wander through Heidelberg's enchanting Altstadt, one of Germany's most beautiful old towns. Stroll along the Hauptstrasse, Europe's longest pedestrian shopping street, visit the Old Bridge with its iconic gateway towers, and explore the historic university buildings. The town's baroque architecture and student atmosphere create a unique ambiance. Don't miss the Church of the Holy Spirit in the market square.
3 hours $10-15
Evening
Student quarter experience
Dine at a historic student tavern where university traditions date back centuries, enjoying local wines and the lively atmosphere that has attracted scholars for over 600 years

Where to Stay Tonight

Heidelberg Old Town (Boutique hotel in the historic center)

Staying in the Altstadt puts you in the heart of Heidelberg's romantic atmosphere with evening and morning charm

Walk the Philosopher's Way path on the opposite riverbank for the best castle and old town views, especially beautiful at sunset
Day 6 Budget: $160-200
7

Into Bavaria's Heartland

Bamberg
Journey into Bavaria to discover Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage town built on seven hills with stunning medieval architecture.
Morning
Travel to Bamberg
Take trains northeast to Bamberg (approximately 4 hours with connections), one of Germany's best-preserved medieval towns. Upon arrival, begin exploring the Bamberg old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site built across seven hills. The town miraculously survived World War II intact, preserving over 1,000 years of architecture. Start at the Altes Rathaus, the unique old town hall built on an island in the middle of the river.
5 hours including travel and initial exploration $50-70
Lunch
A traditional Franconian smokehouse restaurant
Local smoked beer and Franconian specialties Mid-range
Afternoon
Bamberg old town discovery
Continue exploring the Bamberg old town's treasures. Wander through Little Venice, the picturesque fishermen's quarter along the Regnitz River. Climb to the Imperial Cathedral with its Romanesque and Gothic elements, then explore the Old Court and Rose Garden. The town's unique character comes from its blend of ecclesiastical and secular architecture across its hilly terrain. Every street reveals medieval houses and baroque churches.
3-4 hours $15-20
Evening
Smoked beer experience
Visit a historic brewery tavern to try Bamberg's famous Rauchbier (smoked beer), a unique local specialty, paired with traditional Franconian dishes in a centuries-old setting

Where to Stay Tonight

Bamberg old town (Traditional guesthouse in the historic center)

Staying within the UNESCO zone allows you to experience the medieval atmosphere when day-trippers leave

Bamberg has more breweries per capita than anywhere in Germany - try several different smoked beers to appreciate the variety
Day 7 Budget: $140-180
8

Rothenburg's Medieval Magic

Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Visit the Romantic Road's crown jewel, exploring perfectly preserved medieval walls, towers, and the famous Plönlein.
Morning
Journey to Rothenburg and wall walk
Travel to Rothenburg ob der Tauber (about 2 hours), Germany's best-preserved medieval town. Begin by walking along the completely intact town walls, a rare feature offering panoramic views over the red-roofed town and surrounding countryside. The covered walkway stretches for 2.5 kilometers, passing towers and gates. This perspective helps you appreciate Rothenburg's unique preservation and strategic hilltop position.
3 hours including travel $30-40
Lunch
A medieval-themed restaurant in the market square
Franconian specialties in historic surroundings Mid-range
Afternoon
Plönlein and old town exploration
Explore Rothenburg's enchanting streets, culminating at the Plönlein, Germany's most photographed corner where half-timbered houses frame a Y-shaped intersection with a fountain. This iconic scene captures medieval Germany perfectly. Visit the Town Hall tower for aerial views, explore the Medieval Crime Museum, and wander lanes lined with 16th-century houses. The entire town feels like stepping into a fairy tale or time machine.
3-4 hours $15-25
Evening
Night watchman tour
Join the entertaining night watchman tour for stories of medieval life, then enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant followed by evening strolls through the illuminated, nearly empty streets

Where to Stay Tonight

Rothenburg old town (Historic hotel within the walls)

Staying overnight allows you to experience Rothenburg's magic after day-trippers leave and in the early morning

Visit Plönlein at sunrise or after 6pm for photos without crowds - the lighting is also much better than midday
Day 8 Budget: $150-190
9

Alpine Bavaria Awaits

Bavarian Alps
Journey deep into the Alps to explore Linderhof Palace, King Ludwig II's intimate rococo masterpiece nestled in mountain forests.
Morning
Travel toward the Alps
Take trains and buses south toward the Bavarian Alps (approximately 4-5 hours with connections), passing through increasingly dramatic mountain scenery. The journey itself showcases Bavaria's transformation from rolling hills to Alpine peaks. Arrive in the Oberammergau or Garmisch-Partenkirchen area, your base for exploring Ludwig II's mountain palaces. Check in and prepare for an afternoon of royal splendor.
5 hours $40-60
Plan connections carefully as mountain bus services can be infrequent
Lunch
A mountain inn serving Bavarian specialties
Alpine cuisine with local ingredients Mid-range
Afternoon
Linderhof Palace visit
Tour Linderhof Palace, King Ludwig II's smallest but most frequently inhabited palace. This rococo jewel sits in a remote mountain valley surrounded by formal gardens and forest. The ornate interior showcases Ludwig's extravagant tastes with gilded rooms, crystal chandeliers, and the famous Hall of Mirrors. Don't miss the Moorish Kiosk and Venus Grotto in the grounds. The intimate scale makes it more accessible than Neuschwanstein.
3 hours $15-20
Book palace entry times online in advance during summer months
Evening
Alpine evening
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Bavarian restaurant with mountain views, trying regional specialties like Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) and enjoying the peaceful Alpine atmosphere

Where to Stay Tonight

Garmisch-Partenkirchen or Oberammergau (Alpine guesthouse or hotel)

This area provides access to multiple mountain attractions and authentic Bavarian village atmosphere

Arrive at Linderhof when it opens to avoid tour bus crowds - the palace only allows limited visitors per tour
Day 9 Budget: $140-180
10

Eagle's Nest & Alpine Heights

Berchtesgaden
Journey to the dramatic Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle's Nest), perched atop a mountain with breathtaking Alpine panoramas.
Morning
Travel to Berchtesgaden area
Travel to the Berchtesgaden region near the Austrian border (about 2 hours), an area of stunning Alpine beauty and complex history. The dramatic mountain scenery here includes Germany's second-highest peak. Check into accommodation, then prepare for the afternoon's mountain ascent. The region offers some of Bavaria's most spectacular landscapes, with crystal-clear lakes and towering peaks.
3 hours including check-in $30-40
Lunch
A lakeside restaurant in Berchtesgaden
Bavarian mountain cuisine Mid-range
Afternoon
Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle's Nest) visit
Ascend to the Kehlsteinhaus, perched at 1,834 meters atop Mount Kehlstein. Take the special bus up the mountain road, then enter through the tunnel to the brass elevator that rises through the rock to the summit building. Despite its dark history as Hitler's mountaintop retreat, today it serves as a restaurant with absolutely spectacular 360-degree Alpine views extending to Austria. The engineering achievement and location are remarkable.
4 hours $30-40
Only accessible May-October due to snow; buses run frequently but arrive early on clear days
Evening
Berchtesgaden evening
Explore Berchtesgaden town's charming center, then enjoy dinner at a traditional Bavarian restaurant, reflecting on the region's complex history and natural beauty

Where to Stay Tonight

Berchtesgaden (Mountain hotel in town)

Central location for exploring the region's natural and historical sites

The Kehlsteinhaus is weather-dependent - check conditions before traveling and have a backup plan for cloudy days
Day 10 Budget: $150-190
11

Frankfurt's Urban Energy

Frankfurt
Travel to Germany's financial capital, exploring the contrast between medieval architecture and modern skyscrapers at the Frankfurter Römer.
Morning
Journey to Frankfurt
Take trains northwest to Frankfurt am Main (approximately 5 hours), Germany's financial powerhouse and transportation hub. The contrast with Bavaria's mountains and villages is striking as you enter a modern metropolis of skyscrapers. Check into your hotel, then head to the historic center to begin exploring. Frankfurt uniquely blends medieval heritage with contemporary architecture, creating a fascinating urban landscape.
6 hours including travel and check-in $60-80
Lunch
A traditional apple wine tavern in Sachsenhausen
Frankfurt specialties with local Apfelwein Mid-range
Afternoon
Frankfurter Römer and old town
Explore the Frankfurter Römer, Frankfurt's historic town hall complex with its distinctive stepped gable facades. This medieval square has been the city's heart for over 600 years. The surrounding reconstructed old town showcases traditional half-timbered houses rebuilt after wartime destruction. Visit the Imperial Cathedral nearby and explore the charming lanes of the Römerberg. The area demonstrates Frankfurt's commitment to preserving its heritage amid modernity.
2-3 hours $10-15
Evening
Skyline and riverfront
Walk along the Main River at sunset to see Frankfurt's impressive skyline, then enjoy dinner in Sachsenhausen district, known for traditional apple wine taverns and authentic atmosphere

Where to Stay Tonight

Frankfurt city center (Business hotel near the old town)

Central location provides easy access to sights and excellent transport connections for your final days

Visit the Main Tower observation deck for the best skyline views - it's the only publicly accessible skyscraper in Frankfurt
Day 11 Budget: $160-200
12

Harz Mountains Wilderness

Harz National Park
Venture north to explore the mystical Harz Mountains, including the dramatic Dragon Gorge and pristine national park landscapes.
Morning
Journey to Harz National Park
Travel north to the Harz Mountains region (approximately 3-4 hours), Germany's northernmost mountain range steeped in folklore and natural beauty. Check into accommodation in one of the charming mountain towns like Wernigerode or Goslar. The Harz region offers a different landscape from the Alps - more forested and mysterious, with legends of witches and medieval mining history throughout.
4-5 hours including travel and check-in $40-60
Lunch
A mountain restaurant in a Harz village
Hearty central German mountain fare Budget
Afternoon
Dragon Gorge hiking and Harz National Park exploration
Hike through the Dragon Gorge, a narrow rocky ravine where water has carved dramatic formations through the stone. The mystical atmosphere, with moss-covered rocks and rushing water, explains why the Harz inspired so many German legends. Continue exploring Harz National Park's ancient forests, home to rare wildlife including lynx. The pristine wilderness offers excellent hiking trails through beech and spruce forests.
3-4 hours $5-10
Evening
Historic town evening
Explore your base town's medieval center, then enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, perhaps trying Harzer cheese, the region's pungent specialty

Where to Stay Tonight

Harz mountain town (Traditional mountain guesthouse)

Staying in the mountains allows early morning hikes and experiencing the region's unique atmosphere

Take the historic narrow-gauge steam railway through the Harz for spectacular mountain views - it's a journey back in time
Day 12 Budget: $120-160
13

Hamburg's Maritime Spirit

Hamburg
Travel to Germany's port city to experience the incredible Miniatur Wunderland and explore Hamburg's unique maritime character.
Morning
Journey to Hamburg
Take trains north to Hamburg (approximately 3 hours), Germany's second-largest city and Europe's second-busiest port. The Hanseatic city offers a completely different character from southern Germany - maritime, mercantile, and cosmopolitan. Check into your hotel, then head to the Speicherstadt, the historic warehouse district built on timber piles, now a UNESCO World Heritage site with its distinctive red-brick architecture.
4 hours including travel and check-in $40-60
Lunch
A harbor-side restaurant in HafenCity
Fresh seafood and maritime specialties Mid-range
Afternoon
Miniatur Wunderland exploration
Visit Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway exhibition and one of Germany's most popular attractions. This isn't just for train enthusiasts - the incredible attention to detail in the miniature worlds spanning different countries and scenarios is mesmerizing. Watch tiny planes actually take off, ships sail, and day turn to night every 15 minutes. The craftsmanship and humor in the countless tiny scenes make this genuinely fascinating for all ages.
3-4 hours $20-25
Book timed entry tickets online well in advance - it sells out days ahead
Evening
Reeperbahn experience
Explore Hamburg's famous harbor and entertainment district, enjoying dinner at a traditional fish restaurant, then experiencing the unique nightlife atmosphere of St. Pauli

Where to Stay Tonight

Hamburg city center or HafenCity (Modern hotel near the harbor)

Central location for exploring Hamburg's maritime attractions and vibrant neighborhoods

Miniatur Wunderland is less crowded on weekday mornings - the afternoon and weekend crowds can make viewing difficult
Day 13 Budget: $150-190
14

Hamburg Farewell & Departure

Hamburg
Spend your final morning exploring Hamburg's harbor and Elbphilharmonie before your departure, concluding your German adventure.
Morning
Harbor and Elbphilharmonie visit
Take a harbor boat tour to see Hamburg's massive port operations and historic ships, understanding why this maritime trade made Hamburg wealthy. Then visit the striking Elbphilharmonie concert hall, whose wave-like glass structure has become Hamburg's new landmark. Take the curved escalator to the Plaza viewing platform for panoramic harbor views. The building beautifully symbolizes Hamburg's blend of maritime heritage and contemporary culture.
3 hours $25-35
Plaza access is free but requires advance online reservation
Lunch
A final German meal at a traditional Hamburg restaurant
Northern German specialties like Labskaus Mid-range
Afternoon
Departure preparations
Depending on your flight time, you might have time for last-minute shopping along the Mönckebergstraße, visiting the beautiful Planten un Blomen park, or simply relaxing at a harbor-side cafe reflecting on your two weeks exploring Germany's incredible diversity. Hamburg Airport is easily reached by S-Bahn train from the city center in about 25 minutes.
Varies $20-30
Evening
Departure
Head to Hamburg Airport for your departure flight, taking with you memories of Germany's historical depth, cultural richness, and regional diversity

Where to Stay Tonight

N/A (Departure day)

End of journey

If you have an evening flight, store luggage at the train station and spend extra hours exploring the Alster Lakes in the city center
Day 14 Budget: $100-140

Practical Information

Getting Around

Germany's efficient Deutsche Bahn rail network connects all destinations in this itinerary. Purchase a German Rail Pass for unlimited travel if making many journeys, or book individual tickets online weeks in advance for significant discounts (Sparpreis fares). Within cities, use day passes for public transport - they're valid on buses, trams, and metro systems. The Bayern-Ticket offers unlimited regional travel in Bavaria for groups. Download the DB Navigator app for real-time schedules and platform information. Reserve seats on long-distance trains during summer months.

Book Ahead

Book Reichstag dome visits 2-3 weeks ahead; Berlin TV Tower and Miniatur Wunderland tickets should be purchased online several days in advance (or weeks during peak season). Reserve Linderhof Palace entry times in summer. Elbphilharmonie Plaza access requires free advance reservation. Train tickets offer best prices when booked 3 months ahead. Accommodation in Rothenburg and Bamberg should be reserved well in advance as these small towns have limited options.

Packing Essentials

Comfortable walking shoes essential for cobblestones and castle climbs. Layered clothing for variable weather. Rain jacket year-round. Formal casual attire for upscale restaurants. Daypack for excursions. Power adapter (Type F plug). Reusable water bottle. Camera with extra battery for countless photo opportunities. Small German phrasebook appreciated in smaller towns.

Total Budget

$1,960-2,520 for 14 days (excluding international flights)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in hostels or budget hotels ($30-50/night), purchase German Rail Pass for unlimited travel, make lunch your main meal at daily lunch specials, use city welcome cards for free museum entry and transport, skip palace interiors and enjoy free exterior views and parks, shop at supermarkets for breakfast and snacks, choose budget-friendly cities like Leipzig or Dresden instead of expensive Hamburg and Munich, travel in shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for lower accommodation costs, take advantage of free walking tours in major cities.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay in five-star hotels and historic castle hotels ($250-400/night), book first-class rail travel with lounge access, arrange private guided tours of palaces and museums with skip-the-line access, enjoy Michelin-starred dining experiences in each city, take helicopter tours over Neuschwanstein and the Alps, book the TV Tower restaurant for dinner with rotating views, arrange private wine tastings in the Rhine Valley, stay at the exclusive Adlon Kempinski near Brandenburg Gate, experience the Elbphilharmonie with concert tickets, hire private drivers for Rhine Valley and Romantic Road segments.

Family-Friendly

Add extra time at Miniatur Wunderland (kids love it), visit the Berlin Dungeon for older children's entertainment, take the Drachenfelsbahn railway which kids enjoy, stay in family apartments instead of hotels for more space and kitchen facilities, build in more park time and shorter museum visits, add swimming stops at Alpine lakes in summer, visit the Heidelberg Funicular railway, take the Harz steam railway which fascinates children, allow flexible schedules for tired little travelers, choose restaurants with children's menus and outdoor seating, consider skipping nightlife activities for earlier bedtimes, add interactive museums like the Chocolate Museum in Cologne.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Germany

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Germany

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Germany

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Germany

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Germany

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