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16-day World War II Memorial Tour of Europe

NORMANDY, FRANCE

The Higgins boat monument at Utah Beach

Colleville-sur-mer, france.

The American Cemetery near Omaha Beach honors over 9000 fallen soldiers

Paris, france.

The Arc de Triomphe stands at the end of the famous Champs-Élysées Avenue

Amsterdam, the netherlands.

Quaint row houses line the canals of this influential city

Antwerp, belgium.

The main city square is lined with 16th-century Flemish Guildhouses

Dachau, germany.

The memorial at Dachau Concentration Camp was designed by Holocaust survivor Nandor Glid

Munich, germany.

Get a taste of Oktoberfest all year round at the Hofbräuhaus beer hall

Caen, france.

The Caen Peace Memorial & Museum

Nuremberg, germany.

The colossal Congress Hall was built to seat the Nazi Party congress

Rhine river, germany.

This legendary waterway is lined with castle ruins, vineyards, and romantic villages

Pricing disclaimer.

  16-day tour featuring Germany, Austria, Luxembourg, Belgium, Holland and France. Revisit the dramatic history of World War II at famous battle sites, war museums and memorials. Many scenic and cultural highlights are also included, providing an enjoyable combination of learning and leisure.

Tour Year 2024

Tour itinerary.

DAY 1 - Overnight flight to Europe.

The Trip Documents will provide guidance for airport check-in and for your arrival in Europe. Relax on your transatlantic flight with the assurance that Image Tours has taken care of all the details.

DAY 2 - GERMANY . . Arrival at Frankfurt Airport – Bavaria.

Upon arrival, clear passport control and collect your luggage. Refer to the “Arrival Instructions” in the Trip Documents for directions on where and when to meet your tour manager. Settle into your comfortable motor coach on the way to your hotel in the scenic and festive state of Bavaria. Get acquainted with your fellow tour members during the “Welcome to Europe” dinner. (Dinner)

DAY 3 - GERMANY . . Nuremberg - Bavaria.

Your bus transfer into the city center introduces you to the history of Nuremberg. Hitler staged his propaganda rallies here and, after his fall, it was chosen as the location for the War Trials. You will have an opportunity to see the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, Congress Hall, and Palace of Justice where the War Trials were held. Consider the causes and consequences of Nazi Germany during a visit to the Documentation Center (visit the temporary exhibit during the 2023 renovations).  Discover the Old Town’s half-timbered buildings and gingerbread shops before returning to your Bavaria hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 4 - GERMANY . . Dachau - Munich - Tyrolean Village.

Travel to Dachau for a somber visit to the Concentration Camp Memorial. At the entrance, you are prompted to reflect on the incomprehensible as your tour manager translates the German phrase on the iron gate: ARBEIT MACHT FREI (Work Makes One Free). Study the exhibit recounting the “path of the prisoners” and see the site of the former barracks. Your tour continues to Munich, the elegant capital of Bavaria. Pass points of interest, such as the Hitler Building, on your way to the Marienplatz, a pedestrian-only zone where historic buildings are cleverly interspersed with modern store fronts. The centerpiece of the square is the Rathaus (Town Hall) with its captivating Glockenspiel (clock tower). Following your visit to Munich, head south into the mountain range along the German/Austrian border, where you will spend the next two nights in a Tyrolean Village. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 5 - GERMANY/AUSTRIA . . Tyrolean Village.

Enjoy a relaxing day in the surroundings of your hotel. Your Alpine Village offers a variety of options for leisure activities amid the spectacular mountain scenery. Another choice is to join the full day optional Salzburg & Eagle’s Nest with Dinner  excursion (see Optional Excursions), which includes a guided visit to the Kehlsteinhaus, Hitler’s mountain hideaway, followed by an afternoon in Salzburg, known as Mozart’s birthplace and the setting for “The Sound of Music.” Spend a second night at your peaceful Tyrolean Village hotel. (Breakfast)

DAY 6 - GERMANY . . Ulm – Bad Herrenalb.

After breakfast, travel to Ulm to view the imposing Ulm Minster with the tallest church steeple in the world. This afternoon, make a stop at the grave of Erwin Rommel, the German general who was forced to commit suicide when Hitler suspected him of treason. End the day with a buffet dinner at your hotel in Bad Herrenalb, on the northern edge of Germany’s Black Forest. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 7 - FRANCE . . St. Avold – Fort Hackenberg & GERMANY . . Trier.

Follow a scenic route through the Alsace Region and the Vosges Mountains. This area was the site of heavy fighting in the fall of 1944. You will make a stop at Lorraine’s American Cemetery in St. Avold, the largest American World War II cemetery in Europe. The afternoon is reserved for a tour of Fort Hackenberg, part of the Maginot Line, which was constructed between the world wars as a defense against any future German invasions. Your hotel for the next two nights will be in Trier, the oldest city in Germany, located near the three-country border of France, Luxembourg and Germany. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 8 - LUXEMBOURG . . American Cemetery - Diekirch, BELGIUM . . Ardennes – Bastogne & GERMANY . . Trier.

The morning stop is at the American Cemetery in Luxembourg where General George Patton is buried. Continue into the Belgian Ardennes Region and arrive in Bastogne to view the star-shaped Mardasson Monument, a tribute to the soldiers who died in the Battle of Ardennes. You will also see the fox holes used by Easy Company, whose stories inspired the TV mini-series “Band of Brothers.” Your travels this afternoon take you to the Luxembourg National Museum of Military History in Diekirch. Trier's famous Porta Nigra provides an intriguing backdrop for your independent dinner before returning to your hotel. (Breakfast)

DAY 9 - GERMANY . . Rhine River – Remagen – Rhine-Ruhr Region.

Motor to one of the most beautiful stretches of the Rhine River where you will board a river steamer for a boat ride past endearing villages, medieval fortresses, and hillside vineyards known for producing the distinctive Rhine wines. Continue through the Rhine River Valley to Remagen to view the remains of the Ludendorff Bridge, the last standing bridge on the Rhine, which was captured by U.S. soldiers on March 7, 1945. By mid-afternoon, continue to your Rhine-Ruhr region hotel. Dinner will be served at the hotel this evening. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 10 - HOLLAND . . Groesbeek – Nijmegen – South Holland.

Crossing the border, focus on sites significant to World War II liberation efforts in The Netherlands (Holland), including locations associated with Operation Market Garden. The bridge over the Waal River at Nijmegen was a strategic asset reclaimed after the historical crossing of American paratroopers. Travel Hell’s Highway and stop at the memorial in Overasselt, commemorating the site of the largest airborne operation of all time. This day will also feature a visit to one of the local museums documenting the World War II resistance in The Netherlands. Continue to your South Holland hotel for check-in and dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 11 - HOLLAND . . Amsterdam – South Holland.

Travel through Holland's countryside, characterized by canals, dikes and windmills, as you make your way to the dynamic city of Amsterdam. Your visit begins with a ride aboard a glass-topped boat through Amsterdam’s harbor and canals where you will see numerous bridges, boathouses and bicycles while gliding past 17th-century gabled houses. During an independent lunch, try a pannekoek (Dutch pancake) or other local specialties. This afternoon, walk to the main square, an ideal focal point for your individual exploration. Return to your South Holland hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 12 - BELGIUM . . Antwerp & FRANCE . . Caen.

Today consists of a full day of travel from Holland to Caen, France, with a stop in the port city of Antwerp, Belgium. Explore the central market square with its irresistible chocolate shops and convivial outdoor cafés serving Belgian Waffles. Continue the drive into France for an early evening check-in at your Caen hotel where dinner is served shortly after your arrival. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 13 - FRANCE . . Normandy Landing Beaches – Caen.

The entire day is spent touring the famous Normandy Landing Beaches. From Caen, drive to the coast and stop at Pointe du Hoc to view the German fortifications. You’ll also travel to Utah Beach and Sainte-Mère-Église, the site where paratroopers landed during World War II as portrayed in the movie “The Longest Day.” Visit Sainte-Mère-Église Airborne Museum before continuing to Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. Proceed to the artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer. At today’s final stop in the village of Arromanches, view remnants of the artificial harbor and reflect on the sights of the day over an independent dinner. (Breakfast)

DAY 14 - FRANCE . . Caen – Paris.

Spend the morning touring the Caen Peace Memorial and Museum, established to honor the liberators, victims, and all those who continue to fight for peace. As you depart Caen, pause at the Pegasus Bridge to understand how its capture by the British 6th Airborne division was instrumental in deterring a German counterattack. Arrive in Paris by early evening and join your travel companions for a festive “Farewell Dinner” of enticing French dishes at an authentic Parisian bistro with roving musicians. The return transfer provides additional impressions of the city at dusk. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 15 - FRANCE . . Paris.

The day is devoted to Paris, La Ville Lumìere ("City of Light"). On your way into the center, see the Arc de Triomphe which has been the staging area for victory parades throughout history including those following World War II. Your tour manager will also direct you to the location of other principal sights, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower, and Louvre Museum (open every day except Tuesday). Before beginning your free time, we suggest joining the optional Seine River Cruise excursion (see Optional Excursions). Spend the evening exploring the Montmartre District, where Paris looks as it does in old paintings and artists still display their works. An uphill walk to the Sacré-Coeur Basilica rewards you with expansive views of the cityscape. Montmartre boasts excellent restaurants and characteristic sidewalk cafés perfect for an independent dinner in the French capital. (Breakfast)

DAY 16 - Daytime flight back to U.S.A.

Transfer to the Paris Airport for your return flight home. (Breakfast)

Travel Time

Overnight flight from the U.S.A. to Frankfurt.

Arrival at Frankfurt Airport . Meet your tour manager, board your deluxe motor coach and travel (1¾ hrs) through the Franconian Wine Region . After a rest stop, continue (1½ hrs) to your hotel located in the festive state of Bavaria for a "Welcome to Europe" dinner. ( Dinner )

During an introductory sightseeing (1 hr), experience the history of Nuremberg and view the site of the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, the Congress Hall, and the Palace of Justice where the War Trials were held. Return (½ hr) to your hotel in Bavaria  for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 4 - GERMANY . . Dachau - Munich - Alpine Village.

Depart Nuremburg (1¼ hrs) and after a morning stop travel (1¼ hrs) to Dachau Concentration Camp . In the afternoon continue (½ hr) to the elegant Bavarian capital of Munich . Depart Munich in the late afternoon and head south (2 hrs) to an Alpine Village hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 5 - GERMANY/AUSTRIA . . Alpine Village.

Enjoy a day of leisure or join your tour manager for the full day optional Salzburg & Eagle's Nest with Dinner  excursion, including a guided visit to Hitler's mountain hide-a-way (1 hr), sightseeing in Salzburg (½ hr) and an authentic Austrian dinner (1 hr) before returning (1 hr) to your Alpine Village hotel. (Breakfast)

Return to Germany (2 hrs) and after a morning stop proceed (1½ hrs) to Ulm for an independent lunch and views of the imposing Ulm Minster. Next, travel (1 hr) to the Rommel Memorial. Continue (2¼ hrs) to Bad Herrenalb , on the northern edge of Germany's Black Forest. (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 7 - FRANCE . . St. Avold – Fort Hackenberg & GERMANY . . Igel.

Follow a scenic route (1¾ hrs) through the Alsace Region and Vosges Mountains. On to (1 hr) Lorraine's American Cemetery, the largest American World War II cemetery in Europe. From here continue (1 hr) to Fort Hackenberg , part of the Maginot Line. After a visit, continue (1½ hrs) to your hotel in Igel . (Breakfast, Dinner)

DAY 8 - LUXEMBOURG . . American Cemetery - Diekirch, BELGIUM . . Ardennes – Bastogne & GERMANY . . Trier – Igel.

It's a short ride (¾ hr) to the American Cemetery in Luxembourg . Drive (1½ hrs) through the Belgian Ardennes Region and arrive in Bastogne . In the afternoon travel (¾ hr) to the Luxembourg National Museum of Military History in Diekirch . Transfer (1 hr) to Trier , the oldest city in Germany, for an independent dinner before returning (¼ hr) to your hotel in Igel . (Breakfast)

In the morning, travel (2 hrs) to the legendary Rhine for a boat ride along one of the most beautiful stretches of the river. After disembarkation, proceed to Remagen (1 hr) to view the Ludendorff Bridge. Continue (1¼ hrs) to your hotel in the Rhine-Ruhr Region . (Breakfast, Dinner)

Cross the border (2¼ hrs) on the way to Nijmegen to focus on the sites significant to WWII liberation efforts in the Netherlands. Visit (½ hr) one of the local museums before traveling (1½ hrs) through the Dutch countryside to your South Holland hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Transfer (1½ hrs) to Amsterdam where a boat ride through the canals is followed by ample free time. In the evening, return (1½ hrs) to your South Holland hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

A full day of travel. Head south (1¾ hrs) into Belgium to visit the historic town of Antwerp . After free time in Antwerp, drive (2 hrs) to a lunch break near the French/Belgian border. Continue (2¼ hrs) to an afternoon stop in northwestern France. Just before dinner time, arrive (2 hrs) at your hotel in Caen . (Breakfast, Dinner)

The entire day is spent touring the famous Normandy Landing Beaches , including a visit to Pointe du Hoc, Utah Beach, Sainte-Mère-Église Airborne Museum and stops at Omaha Beach, the artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer and Arromanches (travel time between stops varies from ¼ hr to ¾ hr). Short transfer (½ hr) back to Caen . (Breakfast)

Transfer (¼ hr) to the Caen Peace Memorial and Museum for a visit and then continue (½ hr) onto the Pegasus Bridge. Stop for lunch (1¾ hrs) in the French countryside on the way (1¾ hrs) to Paris . Spend the evening in the Montmartre District, an ideal place for your independent dinner (¼ hr). (Breakfast)

A full day for individual exploration (¾ hr transfer in each direction) of Paris , during which you may wish to join the optional Seine River Cruise excursion. This evening, join your travel companions for a festive “Farewell Dinner” at an authentic Parisian bistro. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Transfer (1 hr) to Paris Charles de Gualle Airport for your flight home. (Breakfast)

Favorite Traveler Experiences

•   View Hitler’s Nuremberg Rally Grounds with solemn contemplation
•   Examine the eye-opening exhibits at Dachau Concentration Camp
•   Listen to the chiming of the Glockenspiel on Munich’s main square
•   Tour part of the Maginot Line defense structure at Fort Hackenberg
•   Explore Bastogne, synonymous with the “Battle of the Bulge”
•   Glide past castles and vineyards on a scenic Rhine River boat ride
•   See first hand the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe in Paris
•   Take a serene boat tour through the famed canals of Amsterdam
•   Tour the Normandy Landing Beaches and Military Cemetery
•   Accommodations in Superior Tourist Class or First Class hotels
•   14 Breakfasts and 10 Dinners in addition to any in-flight meals
•   Tour Manager for the full European duration of the tour
•   Land Transportation in Europe by deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach
•   Image Tours Touroclopedia® trip preparation tips
•   Trip Documents with luggage tags, final details and travel guidance

Traveler Reviews

The Availability, Departure Dates, and Rates are for illustration and planning purposes only. Since final pricing and single availability can only be confirmed with a travel agent, steps 4 & 5 of this on-line booking module is reserved for your travel agent only. (Please Call) indicates that we still have some tour availability; however, you should have your travel agent call our office to confirm air availability.

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Upcoming departures, may 08, 2024, may 23, 2024, $4,940 p.p.d.o., jun 12, 2024, jun 27, 2024, sep 04, 2024, sep 19, 2024, sep 11, 2024, sep 26, 2024, may 07, 2025, may 22, 2025, $4,990 p.p.d.o., jun 11, 2025, jun 26, 2025, sep 03, 2025, sep 18, 2025, oct 01, 2025, oct 16, 2025, tour hotels.

NH Collection Nürnberg City

• Air Conditioning
• Satellite TV
• In-Room-Safe

Seminaris Hotel Nuremberg

• satellite TV
• in-room safe
• fitness center

Landhotel Kirchenwirt

• wellness area

Parkhotel Luise Bad Herrenalb

• indoor swimming pool
• safety deposit box at reception

Vienna House Easy Trier

NH Hotel Capelle

• air conditioning
• in room safe

Van der Valk hotel Ridderkerk

Mercure Caen Côte de Nacre

• restaurants

Holiday Inn Express - Canal de la Villette

• internet center

Optional Excursions

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS DETAILS

Our tours are carefully planned to offer a comfortable balance of sightseeing, entertainment and leisure time. Optional Excursions provide the flexibility to choose between leisure time or additional guided sightseeing activities. Unless otherwise noted, optional excursions must be booked with and paid to your tour manager during the tour. Prices are in U.S. Dollars. MASTERCARD®, VISA®, or DISCOVER® (no other credit cards are accepted) are recommended to avoid carrying excessive cash and exchange rate fluctuations. You must be able to present the actual card to your tour manager. If you bring a DISCOVER® card, also bring a VISA® or MASTERCARD®, as DISCOVER® is not widely accepted in Europe. Cash payments during the tour must be in Euros. Personal checks and traveler’s checks are not accepted. The operation of all excursions is subject to sufficient participation, and some excursions are subject to favorable weather conditions. Your tour manager reserves the right to make changes or cancel excursions at their sole discretion.

SALZBURG & EAGLE'S NEST WITH DINNER

Upon arrival in Berchtesgaden, Germany, you will take a bus and elevator up to the Eagle’s Nest, Hitler’s mountain hide-away. In the case of halted bus operation, we will substitute a visit to the Obersalzburg Documentation Center. After an independent lunch, become acquainted with nearby Salzburg, famous home of the “Sound of Music” and Mozart. This excursion includes a traditional Austrian dinner at an alpine village restaurant.

SEINE RIVER CRUISE

Glide along the Seine River by boat, while viewing the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and several other impressive sights in Paris. This excursion provides for excellent photo opportunities.

Tour Extensions

Paris post-tour extension, paris and london post-tour 3-night extension, tour year 2025, 16-day world war ii memorial tour of europe map.

• Berlin In a Day
• Essential Berlin Tour:
• Berlin Wall & Cold War
• Berlin World War Tour
• Sachsenhausen Memorial
• Potsdam Tour
• Berlin Custom Group Tour
• Berlin History and Highlights Tour
• Berlin Wall Tour
• Sachsenhausen Memorial Tour
• Third Reich Tour Berlin
• Berlin Blog
• Discover Berlin History & Highlights
• Berlin Wall Bike Tour
• Third Reich World War Sites & History
• Berlin Highlights Brandenburg Gate & Tiergarten
• About / Contact

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Germany Tours & Trips

With an old-world charm and modern urban cities, an adventure of Germany is contrastingly beautiful. Glide down the Rhine on a river cruise to the Moselle Wine Route where valleys of quaint towns and sparkling wines await, don't miss the Passion Play hidden amongst the lush green landscapes of the Bavarian Alps, or see fairytale landscapes dotted with castles along the Elbe . From the Oktoberfest beer halls of Munich and the maritime and artistic wonders of Hamburg to the culture of Berlin, there's something for everyone in this amazing part of Europe.

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250+ germany tour packages with 2,792 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing

Best of Germany (12 Days)

The trip was packed with activities and experiences. The tour director was excellent. Christina was very helpful and friendly. We purchased all the optional experiences and thought all were worthwhile except the last one. We will book a similar trip in the future

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

• Hiking & Trekking
• Self Guided Walking Holidays

From Munich to Garmisch

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

• Christmas & New Year

Highlights of Germany

The tour director Enrica Hajnal and driver Pasquale were superb. Enrica was particularly approachable and eagle to help. Pasquale was very skillful in maneuvering the coach even in the narrowest of alleys and had always put safety as his priority. The spread of breakfast in Ibis Hotel in Munich could be further improved. They ran out of juices in 2 occasions but did not replenish them on time. However, staff was customer oriented and service was satisfactory. Wish the authority in Germany could display more explanation in English in many places of interest especially historical sights. The edifices were mostly formidable and although the tour director took the trouble to explain to us their significance, it would help a great deal if we have more detailed explanation in English to enable us to understand the history of specific artifacts. Unsure why all pillows in all hotels are hollow and did not support a good night sleep.

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.

Berlin Wall Trail Cycle

This was such a great urban adventure and a brilliant way to take in Berlin. I had no idea that the wall was so huge! I rode an e-bike, which made it easy (even though it was mainly flat!) and the directions were great although I did use the GPX files which I could download onto my phone. The trail is well marked most of the way, a few spots a bit tricky but it's all part of the adventure. Highly recommend this trip!

• Coach / Bus

Best of Germany (Classic, 12 Days)

German Highlights

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• Self-Guided Cycling
• Wine tasting

Winery Tour on the Rhine

Great hotels, the GPS track was enormously helpful and overall it was a great trip. Bikes and equipment all good. We did miss our third wine tasting mainly as we assumed it was at the end of the day like the others, only to find it was 20 k back . Beautiful route.

From Munich into Allgäu

German Vista

BEST OF GERMANY BY TRAIN

Javier was very helpful all the way. he always answered quickly via WhatsApp. It s necessary to clarify that this is practically a self-guided tour for the most part. you will join some local tours but you travel on your own and you have remote support and guidance. As a recommendation get a SIM card from Aldi and get credit at the store to load and set up a local data service. Overall a very good experience.

Customized Germany Train Trip with Daily Departure

Bavaria Bike Tour | Guided Bike Tour | Germany

Best of Germany (Small Groups, 12 Days)

Main River BikeTour | Self-Guided | Wurzburg to Frankfurt

What people love about germany tours.

A fascinating, (sometimes too) whistlestop tour of German towns and cities. The tour guide Zsofi and her driver were probably the best I've ever had - they were helpful, upbeat and very clear in their instructions. Trip 'Good' rather than 'Excellent' because of the location of the hotels, most of which were so on the outskirts of a city that it limited what we could do in our free time. Also, some days towards the end of the tour were a bit rushed - the whole thing could stand to be at least two days longer.

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.

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• Germany Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
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International Versions

• Deutsch: Deutschland Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits et voyages en Allemagne
• Español: Circuitos y viajes por Alemania
• Nederlands: Duitsland Rondreizen

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The best of Germany unlocked for you

Experience Germany differently. Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

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"I love showing guests the depth of German culture and cuisine; it lets them experience how truly multifaceted Germany really is!"

Paul, Travel Director

Explore Neuschwanstein castle

Used as inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella film, the castle of Neuschwanstein stands with impossible grandeur in the hills of Bavaria’s Hohenschwangau district. Originally built for King Ludwig II who only spent 11 nights in the castle before his death, it now enchants visitors aplenty. Our trip to Germany would not be complete without it.

See the remnants of the Berlin Wall

Once dividing the German capital both physically and politically, what remains of the 155 kilometre long Berlin Wall has been largely dressed in thought-provoking graffiti. Feel the emotion of our visit, celebrating its symbolic demolition in 1989 and commemorating this dark patch in German history.

Embrace the Bavarian rich beer brewing heritage

Governed by a set of 16th century rules that determine purity, beer brewing in Germany is a cultural art form. Peel back the layers of beer culture to gain a deeper understanding of its significance, as we visit some of the 1300 breweries found here.

Go up the iconic Berlin TV Tower for 360° views

The Berliner Fernsehturm, or Berlin TV Tower, once stood as a proud statement of communist power. With democracy in place, we will take a trip to the top of the capital’s TV Tower to soak up the sentiment of a united city, admiring 360-degree views from the observation deck found at a height of 203 meters.

Admire the beautiful Baroque building façades in Dresden

The rebirth of Dresden since the bombings of 1945 is a testament to the German spirit of resilience. Connect with the intricacies of Baroque architecture whilst stepping into a pace of life found in many of the country’s boutique cities.

Our top 5 things to do in Germany

When you explore Germany with Trafalgar,  we'll connect you with Bavarian beer heritage, nostalgic castles, Baroque architecture and political complexities.

Stasi Museum

The blurred political history of Germany is uncovered within the stark walls of the Stasi Museum. Once the headquarters of East Germany’s Ministry for State Security, it now stands as a memorial and research centre. Germany tours are scarcely complete without a trip to Stasi.

Residenz Museum

Peel back the layers of German opulence with a step into the former home of Bavarian royalty. A well-timed visit to the Residenz Museum complex will see you watching a performance by the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra. On any other day, be awe-struck by the grandeur of the palace’s ten courtyards and 130 display rooms.

Oranienburg

Memorial & Museum Sachsenhausen

Visit a Nazi concentration camp and you will begin to understand the deeply moving stories of Germany's troubled historical past.Not for the faint of heart, Memorial & Museum Sachsenhausen in Oranienburg will walk you through a mortuary, execution trenches and prison cells. The enormity of suffering remains thick in the air.

Best museums in Germany

Packed with breathtaking moments and cultural significance, museum hopping is an important part of any trip to Germany. With Trafalgar, you'll step from the tumultuous past to the progressive present to understand the complete German story.

Best food in Germany

An indulgent sausage tour is hard to resist in Germany, particularly when washing wursts down with local beer. Trafalgar will guide you through the goodness of this meaty cuisine, always laden with condiments, always satisfying.

A simple pork sausage first steamed and then fried, it’s the lashings of curry ketchup that make currywurst unique. This fast food local favorite is enjoyed with hot potato chips and a local beer, while standing and engaging in a chat with some locals.Add an additional layer of curry powder for extra kick.

Slightly less indulgent than the currywurst, a weisswurst sausage is typically made of veal and pork and warmed in water without complete cooking or frying. Eat the near-raw weisswurst as a mid-morning snack served alongside warm pretzels.

Schweininshaxe

Roasted pork knuckle is an adored culinary dish found across Germany. Often left to marinate for around a week before being slowly roasted at low temperatures, Schweininshaxe is a labour of love. Appreciate yours over a leisurely meal lasting many hours.

What to pack for Germany

Otto Wolff’s guide to German food

Gelbwurst, rindswurst. Kartoffelpuffer, kartoffelkloesse. German food can be a mouthful before the dish has been served. The Wurst! By Otto Wolff will guide you through the very best of German cuisine.

An eye for fairytale architecture

Most sources claim that over 20,000 castles can be found across the hills of Germany. Allow this trip to inspire childhood nostalgia with its fairytale architecture.

Digital maps

It's always good to have a backup of digital maps on standby when you're out exploring in your own time. Download them prior to your trip so you can reach them even when your phone is offline.

Travel adaptor

Though many hotels will have adaptors available for use, being prepared with your own will ensure you're always charged and ready to go.

Traditional costume

Oktoberfest is not the only time that traditional dress could be called upon in Germany. Travelers looking to connect closer to the culture may like to pack the 19th century German attire of a Dirndl or lederhosen.

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Germany Tours & Vacations

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Embark on a spectacular journey, where quaint villages, fairytale castles, and metropolitan cities exhibit the eclectic country of Germany. Shatter perceptions as a diverse and modern nation intertwines with natural opulence full of relics from eras past. From its world-famous beer to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a custom Zicasso itinerary to Germany offers a vacation to be remembered.

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12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,675

Beneath Germany's facade of efficiency is a land of originality and charm. Medieval towns are wrapped around forests with fairytale castles surrounded by villages doused in tradition. Across this proud land, you'll discover a crossroads of ideas and styles, every destination revelling in its individuality. Step behind the stereotypes on this 12-day luxury tour to experience the best of Germany and you will find a country proud of its quirks and surrealist design.

7  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,195

Enjoy a winter wonderland filled with charming towns, Christmas markets that evoke childhood memories, and cultural discoveries with our 7-day Germany Christmas market tour. Visit picturesque towns and charming villages, and capture the romance of Germany’s key cities, such as Heidelberg and Munich, along cobbled streets and within English Garden. Visit iconic Christmas markets that illuminate the talents of local creatives, enjoy festive cheer, and uncover the history of Christmas tradition when visiting one of the oldest Christmas markets: Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt. Savor candy and gluhwein, and revel in the beauty of these German destinations at Christmas time.

16  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $12,475

Rich in history and cultural heritage, Germany is a country of diverse adventures that will be yours to enjoy on this 16-day tour of Berlin and the Bavarian region. From the German capital to the rolling foothills of Bavaria, you can experience incredible guided trips to ensure that you fully experience this stunning and surreal landscape.

14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,455

Medieval Germany isn't just a slice of history. It's alive, breathing an evocative atmosphere into cobbled villages and castles that cling to cliffs. On this unique two-week tour you will journey into its heart and soul, stay in castles and immerse yourself in the untouched charms of bygone centuries. From the royal fortresses of emperors to the fairytale icons of the Alps, discover all the glamor and allure of the medieval era, traveling in style across Germany.

10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,895

The history of beer can be traced to a small corner of Europe, and that is exactly where this 10-day Germany Beer tour leads. Taste your way through breweries and beer gardens with brewmasters and expert guides that can lead the way. Indulge in the original pilsner, Kulmach’s wheat beers, Bamberg’s craft diversity, Cologne’s Kölsch, and Munich’s original beer halls during your buzz-filled ten days in Germany.

This ten-day Germany itinerary is expertly designed for families and offers a blend of experiences for all ages. It is the perfect slow-paced trip through Germany, mixing fairytale castles and children’s attractions with laid-back towns and history. Immerse yourself in the charm and create your own story in a part of Germany that remains mostly frozen in time.

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9  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,505

Indulge in a 9-day journey across Germany that has handcrafted for couples. Bask in the Rhine Valley, explore the Romantic Road, uncover Bavaria’s castles on after-hours tours, and feast on Munich’s delights. Focused on Germany’s most amorous locations, this is a luxurious itinerary that combines beautiful sights with plenty of seclusion. You can expect to enjoy all the space and solitude to celebrate together.

Dynamic pricing from  $7,795

Discover the resounding effects of contemporary history during this 10-day World War II Germany Tour. Trace the rise of the Nazi Party to the fall of the Berlin Wall with specialist guides who inform how the Cold War is indelibly linked to the Second World War. From Berlin to Potsdam and Nuremberg to Munich, witness small monuments that represent powerful actions and once-grand structures that have been reduced to rubble. Whether learning about the Beer Hall Putsch or rejuvenating with a day in Salzburg, this historically based Germany tour will allow you to see first-hand the impact of World War II and the Cold War.

Southern Germany is a land of fables and fairy tales, a place where poetic sonnets echo through sublime landscapes and medieval heritage. This romantic tour follows its cobblestone trail as it winds through the alpine beauty to the quaint charms of yesteryear. From Munich, journey through the Alps and the Black Forest to explore the spa towns, iconic castles, pristine lakes, and the romantic attractions of the country on a trip handcrafted just for two.

11  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,000

Immerse yourself in an evocative and ever-changing past on the ultimate 11-day tour of Germany’s history. From Hitler’s Bunker to Hamburg’s port and from Ludwig II’s castle to medieval enchantment, discover fabulous stories with local guides and look beyond the tourist trail. This adventure includes medieval Regensburg, Baroque Dresden, the best of Berlin and Bavaria, plus two nights in Hamburg.

13  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,065

Immerse yourself in tradition on this beautiful 12-day vacation across Southern Germany, including all the country’s key highlights. From Black Forest allure to the Bavarian Alps and Ludwig’s castle, this is a luxury itinerary that spans an incredible range of landscapes and cities. Step back in time, explore otherworldly destinations, and get to know the real Germany.

Immerse yourself in history and culture on a luxurious 10-day journey of the best of Northern Germany. By traveling to all the key old cities and iconic sites, you will discover diverse highlights and get your full dose of Northern Germany from west to east. Including Berlin, Saxony, Dusseldorf breweries, and musical Bremen, these ten days will douse you in the region’s tales and treasures.

Dynamic pricing from  $4,095

Germany is a reliable destination full of warm hospitality, and this 10-day tour of Frankfurt and Bavaria has been designed to immerse you in the country's many famous Christmas markets and welcoming culture. With the smell of mulled wine and pine shavings being your constant companion, you will experience a holiday like never before as you explore each destination and their distinctive take on the holiday season.

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Dynamic pricing from  $5,260

The Oberammergau Passion Play is a once-in-a-decade experience and is yours to enjoy with this 9-day itinerary.  From Munich to Heidelberg, Oberammergau to Rothenburg, bask in the natural beauty of the Rhine Valley as your customizable tour will immerse you in fairytale towns, captivating scenery, and stunning castles.

Romance for two can come in several forms; Germany's backcountry envelops you in the enchantment from centuries past with its cobblestone medieval streets, horse-drawn carriages and fairytale castles. The country's cities then provide a vibrant treasure chest of exquisite attractions, all while celebrating the opulence of culture and heritage. This couple's itinerary blends the two realms, offering two weeks that captures the heart of Germany.

From Berlin’s history to fairytale castles and from Black Forest spas to glamorous Hamburg, this 12-day Germany tour for seniors has been handcrafted to provide luxury and laid-back charm. Gasp at ancient wonders, immerse yourself in medieval settings, and uncover the secrets of major cities. Over 12 days, you will discover the entire country, from past to present and from east to west.

8  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,115

Mystique envelops the Black Forest, a region of surreal villages, sublime landscapes, and the soft charms of rural Germany. Surprise inhabits all of the corners, from Michelin-starred restaurants in tiny towns to medieval cities that gaze out onto the misty green forest. With this unique 8-day luxury tour, traverse the High Route , heading through the forest to indulge in historical spa towns, idyllic village life, and the cobblestone treasures of yesteryear.

Discard the schnitzel and ditch the bratwurst as Zicasso forges an edible journey to the world’s most exciting culinary center - the Black Forest. With 12 Michelin Star dining blending aromatic opulence and creative finesse, TV-star chefs with meticulous technique, and tantalizing five-course menus, Germany is now positioned on the culinary map. Complemented by five-star luxury accommodations throughout, and three enchanting Christmas destinations to explore, this gastronomic tour beckons to indulge on the most inimitable of experiences Germany has to offer.

Overflowing with surprise, Germany's ancient land reveals inspirations that would change the world. Medieval castles, historic churches, artistic movements, steel barons, regal palaces and more, the country's World Heritage sites provide a narrative on our planet's development, compelling and confounding as they sweep across the centuries. This unique 10-day tour explores 11 of the country's most resonant UNESCO sites, each an unmistakable piece of world history.

Old-world mystique cascades across the Middle Rhine as vineyards roll beneath fabulous castles, and half-timbered taverns reveal medieval charms. Germany's most scenic region is also its most sensual, a realm of sublime aesthetics and subtle smells, captivating in its revelation of bygone centuries. This 8-day tour follows the great river, unraveling the vineyards and the surprises.

There is a kingdom where fairy tales exist, and it’s a magical land where Sleeping Beauty slept, and the dwarfs surrounded Snow White. Journey through the world of the Brothers Grimm, where fictional tales are created from the realm of the real. Rapunzel's hair flicked over a castle wall, the tales of the Pied Piper, and surreal medieval villages of knightly stories. The relics of the brothers and fables of their characters blur into reality with this unique 10-day tour that immerses you in the fairytale route of Germany.

Dynamic pricing from  $4,291

The wall separating East and West Berlin once encapsulated division. The Soviet bloc hid the charming streets of Prague. The imperial majesty of Vienna continued to inspire locals and visitors for more than 600 years. Your custom-tailored tour of Berlin, Prague, and Vienna takes you through the heart of Europe, following the glorious battles and tumultuous times filling Central Europe’s history. Each city maintains a tenacity and vivaciousness that will charm you, cast in palaces, gardens, castles, and enchanting labyrinthine streets. You will find the paths of Austria, Germany, and the Czech Republic to be uniquely their own, yet undeniably intertwined.

Oktoberfest is the world’s largest and best-known beer festival and with more than 200 years of tradition, you’d better believe it’s worth experiencing. Get your fill of Bavarian history, culture and celebrations on an eight-day tour that’ll include city and castle tours, traditional costume shopping expeditions, Bavarian cooking classes, brewery tours and a visit to the festival itself.

Dynamic pricing from  $4,025

Central Europe is imbued with stunning history, landscapes, and legends, and this 10-day tour of the Czech Republic and Germany has been handcrafted to immerse you in all of it. As you make your way from Prague to Nuremberg and Berlin, you will enjoy a blend of leisure and guided explorations that will ensure a relaxing and adventurous exploration of each region.

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Popular Germany Travel Styles

The best time to visit Germany is during the spring, summer, and fall months between March and October.

Late spring in May brings blooming flowers, budding trees, and festival season across Germany, while summer in July and August is ideal for outdoor activities. Early fall in September and October still offers pleasant weather and the start of wine harvests, Oktoberfest in Munich, and smaller crowds.

While these seasons are the best times to travel, Germany is a year-round destination, and winter is an excellent option. November through February brings snow in the Alps, and Germany comes alive with charming Christmas markets.

Depending on your interests, preferences, and availability, we can help you find the right time to go. Explore our guide on the best time to visit Germany for more ideas and advice.

Germany is filled with captivating destinations that offer a delightful blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and modern charms. When planning your tour of Germany, be sure to consider these best places to visit :

• Berlin: Germany's capital city is known for its vibrant arts scene, colorful street art, lively nightlife, and historical landmarks like the iconic Brandenburg Gate.
• Munich: Munich mixes old-world charm with modern flair. Marvel at grand Baroque palaces and churches, sip German beers at lively beer halls, and enjoy the stunning Alpine views.
• Rhine Valley: Cruise along the Rhine River through the vineyard-clad hills and past medieval castles of the enchanting Rhine Valley. Relish wine tasting in charming towns like Rüdesheim and admire the sweeping panoramas.

With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and cosmopolitan cities, be sure to add these top things to do in Germany to your travel itinerary:

• Explore German culture on walking tours of historic neighborhoods in bustling cities
• Tour Germany's charming towns and countryside, enjoying mountain vistas and picturesque villages
• Visit the storybook castles and former royal palaces
• Cruise down the Rhine River through the vineyard-blanketed hills
• Taste traditional German wine and cuisine on wine-tasting and food tours

From fairytale castles to vibrant urban art, Germany offers diverse scenery and landmarks for you to marvel at. Don't miss seeing these top sights on your trip to Germany:

• Brandenburg Gate, Berlin
• Berlin Wall Memorial, Berlin
• Neuschwanstein Castle, Schwangau
• Cologne Cathedral, Cologne
• Marienplatz, Munich
• Speicherstadt, Hamburg

Germany is known for its history, fascinating culture, and natural beauty. Tours of Germany reveal the country’s significant contributions to art, classical music, literature, philosophy, and technology over the centuries. Travelers can also learn about Germany’s turbulent history through remnants and memorials of its difficult past, including the Berlin Wall and Holocaust Memorial.

With its long history and varied landscapes, Germany is home to over 20,000 castles dating from medieval times to the 19th century. When exploring Germany, be sure to visit some of these most famous and breathtaking castles :

• Neuschwanstein Castle
• Nuremberg Castle
• Heidelberg Castle
• Mespelbrunn Water Castle
• Rheinstein Castle
• Hohenzollern Castle
• Lichtenstein Castle

As Germany's capital and largest city, Berlin offers seemingly endless activities for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in Berlin when exploring the city’s best places to visit :

• See the iconic Brandenburg Gate and stroll down Unter den Linden, the historic boulevard lined with landmarks
• Tour the moving Holocaust Memorial and other powerful WWII-related sites like the Berlin Wall Memorial and Checkpoint Charlie
• Wander through trendy neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain to admire colorful street art
• Visit world-class museums like the Pergamon and the Neues
• Relax at a beer garden and sample German beers, brats, and pretzels

The German capital of Bavaria, Munich, blends local traditions with contemporary flair. Be sure to consider these top activities when visiting Munich’s best places on tours in Germany:

• Tour the grand palaces and museums of Museum Island in the city center
• Stroll through Marienplatz to marvel at the soaring Gothic New Town Hall and lively open-air market
• Indulge in delicious sausages, pretzels, pastries, and beers in a typical beer hall
• Take a day trip to the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle
• Experience the local arts and culture like opera, theater, and classical concerts
• Join locals for the iconic Oktoberfest, a beloved annual beer festival

Combining stays in vibrant cities with tours of fairytale castles and stunning landscapes, the best Germany itinerary will provide you with the quintessential German experience. Discover the complex history, sample flavorful foods and beers, and admire storybook scenery as you customize any of our top Germany itineraries below to your liking:

• Explore the best of Germany's iconic cities, fairytale castles, and scenic countryside with our Best of Germany Tour: Berlin, Munich, Neuschwanstein, and More .
• Step back in time as you explore the medieval castles and walled towns of Germany on our Medieval Tour of German Castles , ideal for history buffs.

Enjoy an in-depth look at Germany's diversity on our Germany Encapsulated: Immersive Tour through Berlin, Saxony, and Bavaria , hitting the highlights of Berlin, Saxony, and Bavaria, from modern cities to storybook towns.

Explore more information in our frequently asked questions about planning a trip to Germany and inspiration in our Germany travel guide .

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Write your own storybook ending on one of our 8 - 25 day German tours by exploring the fairy-tale castle of Neuschwanstein, walking the stalls of quintessential European Christmas Markets, or raising a stein of frothy beer at the Hofbräuhaus. Prost!

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Germany tours by region.

A visit to Germany delivers the European experience you’ve dreamed of: castles clinging to wooded mountaintops, grand cathedrals, riverside vineyards, sidewalk cafes on cobbled streets, and more. Savor the contrast of contemporary art and architecture with buildings and neighborhoods that have endured for hundreds of years. From picturesque villages to cosmopolitan cities, Germany will meet your appetite for adventure, history, culture, and fine cuisine. (All washed down with world-class beer and wine, of course!) Book one of our tours of Germany in the summer, and enjoy long days exploring this fascinating country's forests, towns, and cities. Take your Germany vacation in early winter, and visit the magical Christmas markets where you can sample local specialties and confections and shop a tempting array of handicrafts. Or experience Germany via a Rhine River cruise , castle-spotting from the comfort of your vessel’s deck as you drift past historic towns and bucolic farmland. From the cultural riches of the big cities to the natural wonders of the Bavarian Alps and the Black Forest, Germany offers something marvelous every way you turn.

Southern Germany & Bavaria

Southern Germany is a forested wonderland punctuated by old-world cities, picturesque villages, and captivating castles. In southeast Germany lies Bavaria , the largest state in Germany, where the world-famous Oktoberfest is celebrated each fall in Munich, the state capital. Lively beer halls beckon all year round – don’t miss Hofbräuhaus, dating from 1589 and the most famous. Munich is rich with attractions, including the Rathaus Glockenspiel, an elaborate clockwork display on the town hall, and the Munich Residenz, Germany's largest urban palace and former seat of Bavarian royalty. Wander Nuremberg’s cobbled streets, where castle ramparts and Gothic architecture evoke centuries past, visit the Christmas market if your timing is right. Just south, the Franconian Lake District attracts visitors for summer sailing and swimming. Overlooking the beautiful Bavarian forest, the Bavarian Alps, adjacent to Austria, are an international skiing and hiking destination. Enjoy stunning alpine views from the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle. The village of Oberammergau, renowned for its annual Passion Play , is another Bavarian Alp attraction. The woodlands stretch westward, where the mountainous Black Forest inspired the renowned Brothers Grimm fairytales. Prepare to be enchanted by farmhouses and fields, castles, and cuckoo clocks.

Eastern Germany

On your tour of Eastern Germany, encounter Berlin , one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. A UNESCO “City of Design,” Berlin hums with creative energy. Enjoy cafes, restaurants, glittering nightlife, and the Tiergarten, an expansive city park. You’ll also come face-to-face with the once-divided city’s turbulent history by visiting remnants of the Berlin Wall , Checkpoint Charlie, and landmarks of Berlin's East and West sections. From atop the Berlin TV Tower, marvel at the 360-degree views of the now-unified, modernized city. Back on the streets, you’ll see relics of history, including the Baroque cathedral, the neo-Baroque Reichstag building, and the Brandenburg Gate, an iconic 18th-century military monument. You’ll also see modern, cutting-edge architecture, edgy street art, and contemporary boutiques, and winter visitors can visit dozens of Christmas markets . Just two hours south lies elegant Dresden, a city rebuilt following devastating bombing during WWII, dotted with gorgeous Baroque facades. Visit the Zwinger Palace and Semper Opera house and the fully reconstructed Frauenkirche with one of the largest domes in Europe. Dresden hosts the world’s oldest Christmas market, dating back to 1434.

Central German Metropolitan Region

Central Germany is a metropolitan crossroads of commerce and history. Frankfurt's nickname is “Mainhattan,” referring to the Main River on which it lies and the dynamic skyline of this high-powered business hub. High-rises may dominate the views, but the city retains its historical flavor in the medieval center, where half-timber buildings and charming taverns line cobble-stone lanes. More medieval architecture beckons at the Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a fortified city east of Frankfurt. Once larger than Frankfurt and Munich, Rothenburg is encircled by an intact 14th-century wall with gates and towers. Enjoy the beautiful and authentic medieval market square lined with multi-story half-timber buildings. Rothenburg also has a seasonal Christmas market. West of Frankfurt, visit the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz, located at the juncture of the Rhine and Main rivers. Named after Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of movable metal type, this museum about printing honors one of civilization’s landmark innovations. Right across the street, admire the massive red sandstone St. Martin’s Cathedral, a thousand years old. This Romanesque marvel is near the market square and is perfect for people-watching over coffee.

Western Germany & The Rhine Valley

In Western Germany, the Rhine River flows through scenic valleys dotted with terraced hillside vineyards, then passes through the dynamic metropolises of Cologne and Düsseldorf. Weaving through quaint towns and bucolic farmland, the Rhine River gazes up at a series of castles dramatically perched above – some in ruins, some housing museums, hotels, or restaurants. The Moselle Valley and the Moselle River , a tributary to the mighty Rhine, offer still more storybook castles, charming towns, spectacular vistas, and wine-tasting opportunities. This area is highly regarded for its white wines and Riesling grapes. After the gorgeous countryside of Rhineland, set your sights on the urban rewards of Cologne and Düsseldorf. The must-see High Gothic Cologne Cathedral is the tallest twin-spired church in the world at 515 feet and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. View the river and the old town center from a viewing platform on the south tower. Explore the Altstadt (old town) and see artifacts and ruins dating back to the Romans. Just north lies Düsseldorf, Germany’s capital of fashion and art, where galleries and elegant boutiques ensure world-class window shopping. Both Düsseldorf and Cologne host Christmas markets .

Frequently Asked Questions About Germany Tours

• How many days do you need to see Germany? A country with rich history and architecture has a lifetime of attractions. To explore the whole country, try to book at least 8-10 days. You can also see several countries by booking a river cruise on the Rhine or Danube Rivers.
• What is the best way to tour Germany? Choose one of our land tours or all-inclusive river cruises, and we’ll ensure you see the historical and cultural sites that mustn’t be missed. You’ll also dive into the local culture and cuisine for an intimate look at Germany’s delights.
• What are the best cities in Germany to visit? Munich is sure to please. Its iconic Hofbräuhaus is a lively year-round attraction, and the glockenspiel is positively enchanting. Visit Frankfurt for a beguiling combination of modern urban culture and historic architecture. Hamburg is an inland port city crisscrossed by a network of canals reflecting stately 19th-century brick buildings.
• Which part of Germany should you visit? Outdoorsy travelers gravitate to Bavaria, the Black Forest, and the Rhine Valley for biking and hiking fueled by local wine and beer tasting. Lovers of traditional and folk arts will enjoy the Christmas markets and the cuckoo clock culture of the Black Forest. If you travel for art, museums, culture, and cuisine, the lively cities of Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne, and Düsseldorf will be your happy places.
• What is the best month to visit Germany? The summer months offer long days to enjoy the fantastic scenery and the warmest, driest weather. If you crave the Christmas markets, the ideal travel time is December before Christmas, although some markets stay open before and after this period. Celebrate Oktoberfest festivities during the last couple weeks of September into early October.

Why You Should Visit Germany

A country blessed with many of Europe’s most incredible sights, Deutschland surprises its visitors with an endless array of natural beauty and man-made treasures. There are endless opportunities for exploration on a Germany vacation. Visitors are drawn by the spectacular scenery, with rugged mountains, floral meadows, and winding rivers punctuated by elegant cities and delightful villages. Bavaria entices with its cheerful beer halls, fairytale Neuschwanstein, and medieval villages lined with half-timbered houses. Nuremberg inspires with its heart-warming holiday traditions and wintertime festivities. And Berlin amazes visitors with its mix of profound history and modern innovation.

Our tours of Germany take you to the heart of the action to experience the highlights and more. Whichever tour of Germany you choose, you’ll enjoy eye-opening encounters, expert guides, and special access to legendary sites. You’ll go beyond the guidebook with memorable insider experiences – like learning the secrets to making perfect German pastries, exploring King Ludwig’s chambers with a local specialist, or gaining insight into the ancient techniques of clock making. Whether you dream of sailing past castles on a luxury river cruise of the Rhine or joining the celebrations at Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets, you’ll find the perfect Germany trip and create memories you’ll never forget.

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At the heart of Europe, monumental contemporary and historic events shape today’s Germany. From the fall of the Berlin Wall to the rise of the Beatles in Hamburg, the culture of the country is marked by its influential past and present. Imagine yourself exploring postcard-worthy castles such as Neuschwanstein or wandering through medieval cities such as Regensburg. From the Bavarian Alps to the Rhine Gorge to the plains of the north, the range of Germany’s landscapes will capture your heart. Perhaps you’ll also indulge your taste buds as you sample the delicious Marzipan sweet treats of the Hanseatic port of Lubeck, which have been produced there for over 200 years. Whether on a journey on the ‘Romantic Road’ or cruising along the Rhine, know that a stein of German beer or a glass of wine from the Rhine vineyards are both a worthy compliment to a destination that offers far more than the average traveler anticipates.

Explore More

Destination must-see's, oberammergau:.

The tiny Bavarian village of Oberammergau is straight from the pages of a storybook. You’ll find countless traditional, timbered houses with colorful murals depicting everything from religious scenes to fairy tales. Every 10 years, travelers flock from all over the world to see the city’s famous Passion Play. It all began in 1634 when villagers promised to perform a play depicting the life and death of Jesus Christ every ten years if God would spare them from the Bubonic Plague. No one fell victim to the Plague after that. The tradition continues today, and will be performed in 2022. To join the cast, you must have been born in Oberammergau or have lived in the town for no less than 20 years. This epic play, though performed in German, transcends language barriers and is a bucket list item for many travelers.

• Learn More About Oberammergau Passion Play

Christmas Markets:

Before Christmas was ever celebrated, Germany had special winter markets. These markets were only open for a day or two in early winter to stock up on food and supplies to hold them over in the cold months. With time the markets expanded and craftspeople set up stands selling items often given during the holidays. What makes these markets special and unique compared to other holiday shopping is the atmosphere and quality. While walking the German streets you smell the aroma of mulled wine and baked apples with festive lights and historic buildings. You will not find mass-produced items here, but real quality craftwork.

Berlin and the Wall:

After World War II, Germany separated into two countries, with the east as communist and the west as democratic. As the capital of Germany, Berlin became the center of this divided nation, constructing a wall to contain the segregation. Before the wall was built, citizens in East Germany had begun to move to West Germany to avoid communist rule. After hordes of people began leaving the East, the leaders constructed a wall overnight, shocking the community. Despite initial beliefs, the country was not reunited for some time and the Berlin Wall stayed up for 28 years. Its fall, which happened in 1989, was something that was celebrated all around the world.

Destination Must-Do's

German beer gained its popularity due to the outcome of the strict process it undergoes following the Purity law. Made of water, hops and barley malt, German beer tastes much better than any other. Every year from the middle of September to the beginning of October, Munich hosts the world’s largest folk festival “Oktoberfest” for 16 days. People travel from all over the world to take part in the festivities. There are rides, sideshows, costumes, food, and of course, plenty of beer. With 14 big tents and 21 small tents, beer is served from 9am to 10:30pm every day for a reasonable price.

Neuschwanstein Castle:

There are so many beautiful castles in Germany that it may be hard to pick your favorite! One of the most famous landmarks and most visited castle in all of Europe is the Neuschwanstein Castle. This castle was built by King Ludwig II, known as the “Fairytale King.” The mythical look of the castle even inspired Walt Disney to create the Magic Kingdom, he later replicated this majestic architecture for the park’s palace. In addition to Neuschwanstein Castle, Rapunzel’s castle is also located in Germany and will be included in the new tour “Romantic Road and Fairy Tale Road.”

Rhine River:

This river travels through six countries linking southern and northern Europe. It is the only river in the world with so many old and famous cities on its banks. In the Middle Rhine Valley, located in Germany, you will find vineyards, castles and fortresses. It brings together old myths, fairy tales, and romance and truly is a trip back through history.

Cuckoo Clocks:

The birthplace of the cuckoo clock is in the German Black Forest. They have become the symbol of the region. The clocks were made in the winter time when the farms were snowed in, and then sold in the summer time. There are two main types of cuckoo clocks and all clocks are hand carved with some of the most beautiful detailing in the world.

Expert Advice

For beverages, nothing beats the hot mulled wine, with or without a shot of brandy, or Eierpunsch”, the traditional egg-based, warm alcoholic drink.

The Christmas Markets have their own special fare to sample including candied and toasted almonds, traditional Christmas cookies made of gingerbread, Stollen, an egg bread topped with candied fruit, Bratwurst, and cheeses served on sticks.

Be sure to hit an ATM; many places in Germany do not accept credit cards.

Featured Tours to Germany

Exploring the Alpine Countries Austria - Germany - Switzerland

Majestic Cities of Central & Eastern Europe featuring Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest & Krakow

Magical Christmas Markets of Austria and Germany

Christmas on the Danube featuring a 6-Night Danube River Cruise

Discover Switzerland, Austria & Bavaria featuring Oktoberfest

Europe: The Grand Tour

Magical Rhine and Moselle Rivers

European Christmas Markets featuring Prague, Vienna & Budapest

Brochures that Feature Our Germany Tours

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At the heart of Europe, fascinating events of contemporary and more historic times shape today’s Germany - from the fall of the Berlin Wall, to the rise of the Beatles in 1960s Hamburg plus wartime history, picture postcard castles such as Neuschwanstein and medieval cities such as Regensburg. Landscapes range from the Bavarian Alps to the Rhine Gorge and plains of the north. The Hanseatic port of Lubeck provides delicious Marzipan sweet treats, produced there for over 200 years. Whether on a journey on the ‘Romantic Road’ or cruising along the Rhine, a stein of German beer or glass of wine from the Rhine vineyards are a worthy accompaniment to a destination that offers far more than the average traveller anticipates.

Destination Must-See's

Birthplace of the Reformation:

Over 500 years ago Martin Luther, the monk, professor, and church reformer, nailed his 95 theses to the door of the castle church in Wittenberg. What he had to say changed history forever. Now, five centuries later, Wittenberg and Eisleben pay tribute along with the rest of the country. Local buildings all over town are being renovated, children are learning about Luther in school, and tourists are already visiting.

Berlin and the Wall:

After World War II, Germany separated into two countries, with the east as communist and the west as democratic. As the capital of Germany, Berlin became the center of this divided nation, constructing a wall to contain the segregation. Before the wall was built, citizens in East Germany had begun to move to West Germany to avoid communist rule. After hordes of people began leaving the East, the leaders constructed a wall overnight, shocking the community. Despite initial beliefs, the country was not reunited for some time and the Berlin Wall stayed up for 28 years. Its fall, which happened in 1989, was something that was celebrated all around the world.

Destination Must-Do's

German beer gained its popularity due to the outcome of the strict process it undergoes following the Purity law. Made of water, hops and barley malt, German beer tastes much better than any other. Every year from the middle of September to the beginning of October, Munich hosts the world’s largest folk festival “Oktoberfest” for 16 days. People travel from all over the world to take part in the festivities. There are rides, sideshows, costumes, food, and of course, plenty of beer. With 14 big tents and 21 small tents, beer is served from 9am to 10:30pm every day for a reasonable price.

Neuschwanstein Castle:

There are so many beautiful castles in Germany that it may be hard to pick your favorite! One of the most famous landmarks and most visited castle in all of Europe is the Neuschwanstein Castle. This castle was built by King Ludwig II, known as the “Fairytale King.” The mythical look of the castle even inspired Walt Disney to create the Magic Kingdom, he later replicated this majestic architecture for the park’s palace. In addition to Neuschwanstein Castle, Rapunzel’s castle is also located in Germany and will be included in the new tour “Romantic Road and Fairy Tale Road.”

Rhine River:

This river travels through six countries linking southern and northern Europe. It is the only river in the world with so many old and famous cities on its banks. In the Middle Rhine Valley, located in Germany, you will find vineyards, castles and fortresses. It brings together old myths, fairy tales, and romance and truly is a trip back through history.

Cuckoo Clocks:

The birthplace of the cuckoo clock is in the German Black Forest. They have become the symbol of the region. The clocks were made in the winter time when the farms were snowed in, and then sold in the summer time. There are two main types of cuckoo clocks and all clocks are hand carved with some of the most beautiful detailing in the world.

Expert Advice

For beverages, nothing beats the hot mulled wine, with or without a shot of brandy, or Eierpunsch”, the traditional egg-based, warm alcoholic drink.

The Christmas Markets have their own special fare to sample including candied and toasted almonds, traditional Christmas cookies made of gingerbread, Stollen, an egg bread topped with candied fruit, Bratwurst, and cheeses served on sticks.

Be sure to hit an ATM; many places in Germany do not accept credit cards.

Featured Tours to Germany

Exploring the Alpine Countries Austria - Germany - Switzerland

Majestic Cities of Central & Eastern Europe featuring Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest & Krakow

Magical Christmas Markets of Austria and Germany

Christmas on the Danube featuring a 6-Night Danube River Cruise

Discover Switzerland, Austria & Bavaria featuring Oktoberfest

Magical Rhine and Moselle Rivers

European Christmas Markets featuring Prague, Vienna & Budapest

Discover Switzerland, Austria & Bavaria

Brochures that feature our germany tours.

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WWII Poland and Germany Tour

If you can only take one trip take the Poland Tour. All of the guides were very knowledgeable about the places and things we saw. The hotels were a mixture of old world and new. The people of Poland are hard working and very friendly. The food was outstanding.

– John Rice

The first shots of WWII rang out in Gdansk, Poland on September 1, 1939. Five years later the Warsaw Uprising commenced on August 1, 1944 and lasted for 63 days as the Polish resistance Home Army fought valiantly to liberate Warsaw from Nazi Germany.

Our WWII Poland and Germany Tour begins in Gdansk, which is also the site of another historic push for freedom — the Solidarity movement led by electrician Lech Walesa. We will then begin to wind our way on to Ketrzyn, Warsaw, Krakow, Auschwitz, Zagan, and Berlin, where some of the fiercest battles of the war were fought.

Guests who have traveled on this tour before rave about the charm of these historic cities and towns, the warmth of the people in this part of the world, and the many outstanding restaurants, some of which are located in beautiful buildings that date back to the last century. As always, you can expect an unimpeded history study.

User reviews rating score:

• Gdansk:  Begin in Gdansk at Westerplatte where the Polish garrison withstood German naval, artillery and infantry assaults for seven days in the war’s first action
• Hitler's Wolf's Lair:  Walk through the eerie remains of Hitler’s Wolf’s Lair hidden in the pine forests of NE Poland.  Here he masterminded his eastern front operations and survived the 1944 assassination attempt
• Warsaw:  Tour Old Town Warsaw completely rebuilt after the city was destroyed and the Warsaw Rising museum, tribute to the courageous 1944 battle that lasted 63 days
• Krakow:  Visit 1000 year old Krakow and the Royal Castle and the Schindler Factory and Museum before entering through the “Arbeit Macht Frei“gates of Auschwitz, the international symbol of the Holocaust
• Stalag Luft III:  Visit Stalag Luft III where the “Great Escape” took place allows us to see the barracks and the remnants of tunnels Tom, Dick and Harry dug by the Allied airmen.
• Berlin:  In Berlin we stand where the final surrender took place at Karlshorst, as well as see the Reichstag and the  chilling Topography of Terror Museum. Not far from the Brandenburg Gate we experience the height of the Cold War at the Checkpoint Charlie Museum straddling what was East and West Berlin.

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1 in the air.

Flights to Gdansk guests depart the United States for Gdansk, to arrive the following day.

DAY 2 Gdansk

The world has focused on the Polish city of Gdansk twice during the last century. The first shots of WWII rang out here in 1939, and in 1980 the Solidarity movement led by electrician Lech Walesa began its confrontation with the Communist government in the shipyards. The focus of our tour will begin here in Gdansk as we set the stage for our upcoming tour.

The tour will officially start with a Welcome Reception and dinner where participants can get acquainted. We will have a briefing and overview of our upcoming tour and the key sites we will visit.

DAY 3 Gdansk

Westerplatte: In1939, the Polish garrison of 182 soldiers withstood German naval, artillery and infantry assaults for seven days in what was the first military action of WWII. Here we will view the massive monument to the Heroes of Westerplatte and visit the small museum nearby in what was Guardhouse No 1. The concrete walls are still pocked by enemy gunfire. The Wisloujscie Fortress, originally constructed in the middle ages stands here as a sentinel for the harbor. Over the years architects upgraded the fortifications to enable resistance to modern weaponry. We visit the Polish Post Office where armed postal workers and boys scouts held off German militia and armored attacks before surrendering.  They then faced summary execution.

From here we will go to the Gdansk Shipyard and Solidarity Monument to visit the site were the movement to topple communism began.  The nearby Museum documents the beginning of the movement, the years of Martial Law in Poland, and the ultimate victory over a failing system.

DAY 4 Ketrzyn

The Old Town of Gdansk, completely rebuilt after WWII, features a marketplace, ornamentally decorated town houses and numerous monuments along the Royal Way. Perhaps the most famous is the Neptune Fountain, the symbol of the city. We will see this as well as tour the Historical Museum in the old town hall. Its ornate rooms and collections offer insight into the history of the city and an ideal starting point for the Old Town.

After lunch we will depart for Ketrzyn, the site of Hitlers Wolfs Lair. Built in the pine forests of the Masurian Lake District, the headquarters had 50 bunkers, a complete power system, and an airstrip and railroad terminus. Once camouflaged and surrounded by mine fields and razor wire, the ruins offer a glimpse into the sinister nerve center of Hitlers eastern operations. The Wolfsschanze was the setting for the failed plot to assassinate Hitler in July 1944.

DAY 5 Warsaw

After an early breakfast we will depart for Warsaw. En route, we will stop at Grunwald, the scene of Europes largest medieval battle. In 1410, the Allied forces of the Kingdom of Poland and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania decisively defeated the Teutonic Knights. This victory drastically changed the balance of power in central Europe.

This area also was the location for the battle of Tannenberg in 1914 between Germany and Russia. It was one of the key battles of WWI, and it put the Romanov Empire on the slippery slope to oblivion.

We arrive in Warsaw in the early evening. Tour members will be able to relax or explore the Old Town and environs.

DAY 6 Warsaw

We begin our visit with an exploration of the Polish Military Museum. An array of weaponry, uniforms, paintings and historical collections tell the story of Polish armed forces from the Middle Ages to WWII. Permanent exhibits include The Defense in 1939, and The Polish Army in the East 1943-45. Afterwards we visit the site of the infamous Jewish Ghetto and the Path of Remembrance, which includes the Umschlagplatz where the Nazis loaded deportees onto cattle cars for resettlement in the east. We continue to the Jewish History Institute and finish the day at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

We finish the day at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. We will visit the Old Town (Stare Miasto) and the main square. The people of Warsaw used architectural drawings and artists’ renderings to completely rebuild and restore this area after the devastation of WWII. We also will tour the Royal Palace at Plac Zamkowy (Castle Square). Here King Zygmunt III took up residence in 1611 and made Warsaw the capital of the Polish Commonwealth. His statue, with a cross in one hand and a sword in the other, stands in the center of the square.

DAY 7 Warsaw

In the morning we will go to Modlin Fortress on the outskirts of the city. Napoleon’s engineers constructed the fortress in the early 1800’s.  Years later it became the scene of the last of Polish forces to fall to the Germans in 1939. The surrounding structures and museum afford a view into a little known chapter of this period of WWII. After lunch we will go to the Warsaw Rising Museum. Here we will see the exhibits that describe the history of Poland during the war. The actual Rising of the Polish Home Army against the Germans in 1944 is the main feature. The Home Army of some 40,000 soldiers and citizens battled the Nazis and their reinforcements fiercely for 63 days. They waited in vain for support from the Red Army, but the Soviets refused. In a rare tribute to their enemies, the Nazis granted the Polish combatants POW status.

DAY 8 Krakow

We board the train for Krakow immediately after breakfast. Upon arrival,  we walk up Wawel Hill to the Royal Castle. The Poles erected the first buildings here in the year 1000, including a stone cathedral. Redecoration in the Italian Renaissance style occurred in the early 16th century. Here also are the Royal Tombs, where most of Poland’s monarchs are buried, as well as a few national heroes. Perhaps most notable is Thaddeus Kosciusko, Polish patriot and hero of the American Revolution. Kosciuszko is considered the father of West Point and American artillery In the evening we can enjoy and explore downtown Krakow.

DAY 9 Krakow

Today we will go to the Kazimierz district, the old Jewish neighborhood, which is home to the museum and the Isaac Synagogue. Afterwards we will cross the Vistula River to what was the Jewish Ghetto. We will see the museum housed in what was once the only pharmacy in the Ghetto and the Enamel Utensil Factory run by Oskar Schindler on Lipowa Street. His efforts to save a group of prisoner-workers became the main subject of the film Schindler’s List. Today it is a museum that many say is one of the best documentations of WWII and the holocaust in Poland. After lunch we will visit the Polish Home Army Museum. Although the exhibits show Polish military history for the last 100 years, the emphasis is on the struggle and resistance against the Nazis in WWII. Polish pilots were vital in the Battle of Britain, so we will take in the Polish Aviation Museum with more than 100 aircraft at its airfield. 

DAY 10 Krakow, Oswiecim, Wroclaw

This morning we will depart for the international symbol of the Holocaust, genocide and terror: Auschwitz. We will see the Main Camp and Birkenau and you will experience the eerie chills of the admonition "Arbeit Macht Frei" (Work Makes You Free) above the gates. We will leave in the afternoon and spend the night in Wroclaw. 

DAY 11 Zagan

After breakfast and a morning tour of the old town of Wroclaw (Breslau) we will leave for Zagan where The Great Escape of book and film fame took place. Here at Stalag Luft III, 80 imprisoned airmen escaped through a 111-meter tunnel. Thus began a colossal manhunt throughout the entire territory of the Reich. Only three escapees were completely successful, while 50 of the 73 others were captured and executed. We will see the monument to the escape and visit the Museum of Allied Prisoners of War Martyrdom.

DAY 12 Berlin

We will depart immediately after breakfast for Seelow Heights. As the massive three pronged Soviet advance converged upon Berlin, General Georgi Zhukov pitted his one million men and more than 3000 tanks against the German defenses on the Oder River. We see the Red Army command bunker and observation posts, German defense trenches and the first Soviet T-34 tank to cross the Oder. After stopping at the cemetery we proceed to Berlin.

DAY 13 Berlin

This morning we pass the Brandenburg Gate on the way to the nearby Reichstag. The Nazis paraded through the gates to celebrate their assumption of power in 1933. The famous fire that same year at the Reichstag enabled the Nazis to blame enemies of the state and embark on their official reign of terror. You can still see graffiti left by Red Army soldiers in 1945. We move on to the Soviet Memorial and then a remnant of their post-war legacy, Checkpoint Charlie. This is the well-known Cold War crossing point between East and West Berlin.

DAY 14 Berlin

On our final day, we will visit Karlshorst where the final surrender took place.  The room where the documents were signed is still intact.  We then see the the Topography of Terror which chronicles the history of Nazism, before ending the day at the Reichstag.   That evening we will return to our hotel for a farewell dinner.

DAY 15 Flight home

A transfer will be offered to the Berlin International Airport.

• August 30 - September 13, 2024 - Waitlist Only!
• August 30 - September 13, 2025

Recommended Reading

A Traveller's History of Poland by John Radzilowski

Tour Includes

• Daily lectures by historian, Mark Bielski or Chris Anderson
• On-the-ground Tour Manager taking care of logistics
• 13 nights in 3- or 4-star hotels, including all hotel taxes, porterage (where available) and service charges
• Touring by first class air-conditioned motor coach
• 14 breakfasts, most dinners, some lunches and a welcome reception
• All entrance fees to museums and attractions

Activity Level

There is a fair amount of walking on this tour, including on cobblestones, gravel paths and inclines. Certain parts of the tour require mobility. Call Company Director Mark Bielski at 504-821-9283 for a fuller explanation and any questions.

Photo Gallery

• Chris Anderson
• Mark Bielski, Ph.D., Director

TRIP COST $7,190

Prices are per person based on double occupancy. For a single room please add $1,900.

Our Guests’ Reviews

There are 7 reviews for ' WWII Poland and Germany Tour '. Add your review

Amazing Trip Back Into Time

This is the second trip that my wife and I have taken with Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours. We had the pleasure of having Chris Anderson as our Historian and George Luz, Jr. as our Tour Manager for both trips. They are the best in the tour business! I never knew much about Polish history before this trip. Chris did an incredible job of taking us back into time and showing us how Poland’s history was closely tied to World War II and why Hitler had a deep hatred toward Poland. The trip was like pieces of a puzzle that Chris put together for us throughout the tour. Today’s Poland is amazing and beautiful with wonderful people – I admire them greatly. Over the centuries Poland was beat down time and time again, but they have come back even stronger. Amazing country! We loved this trip! A side note: My wife had a stress fracture in her leg for the entire trip and our drivers (Klaas and Lucas) were so gracious and caring – they always made sure the wheelchair was available for us to use. Both men were wonderful – and great drivers too!

This profoundly moving tour dramatically expanded my understanding of WWII in Europe, particularly the often over-looked (by Americans) heroism and resilience of the Polish people. Bookended by visits to the sites where the war began (in Gdansk) and ended (in Berlin), the tour included many of the most iconic locations of WWII. Highlights for me were: seeing the Polish Post Office building in Gdansk; walking through the ruins of Hitler’s bunker at the Wolf’s Lair; visiting the “Mila 18” memorial in Warsaw; contemplating the Holocaust at Auschwitz-Birkenau, and studying the large-scale battlefield where a million Russian soldiers broke through to Berlin. Other stops were more contemporary, such as the Gdansk shipyard and the Berlin Wall. Along the way, our tour leader Chris Anderson and several local guides did an outstanding job of describing exactly what we were seeing and placing it in historical context. Chris cares deeply about the history and meaning of the war, which helped to make this trip an unforgettable experience.

Fantastic trip w/ the Best Guide in the Business!

Just got back from the Poland portion of this trip (led by Chris Anderson) and it was an absolute great time. Between the nice hotels, nice bus, nice driver, excellent itinerary, but most of all, the best guide in the business in Chris Anderson, it was a top notch, unparalleled tour. Chris is not only knowledgeable but passionate about history and understands the sacredness of the locations that we visited, and this passion comes through in the way he explains things. In addition to Chris, SAHT brings in local experts at Gdansk, Wolf’s Lair, Warsaw castle, and Krakow, among others. They are well versed in their areas of expertise and deliver stories and knowledge with an energy that conveys how important these areas are to them, and to history. The hotel stay at the Hotel Zemek Ryn is an interesting one as a 15th century castle turned four star hotel is an interesting transformation. Even though it took me a little bit to feel comfortable, I hope this stays on the itinerary as it is one of the aspects that make this tour unique and special. Overall, it is a great tour and well worth it. I also met some very nice and interesting people. Highly recommend!

Having visited most of the battlefields of Western Europe, this trip allowed me to round out my experience by visiting other battlefields of Eastern Europe.

Historical content seemed to flow well and really helped to understand the history of Poland and Germany….took time to talk to everyone in the group and include everyone in different discussions.

Mark was more than knowledgeable, presented details in context of where we were and what we were experiencing, with an excellent sense of humor. Kept things organized, moving and relevant.

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Featured News

German open 2024: tournament preview.

The inaugural German Open 2024 – Presented by Sportwerk, gets underway tomorrow, with 24 men’s and women’s players arriving in Hamburg, Germany to compete for the PSA World Tour Bronze titles.

The event will take place between 3-7 April 2024 at The Sportwerk Centre, and will be the first PSA World Tour event to ever be held in Germany. Every second of action from the tournament, including both side courts on the opening two days, will be available to watch live on SQUASHTV .

In the women’s draw, World No.4 Nele Gilis has been named as the top seed, with younger sister Tinne the No.2 seed. The Belgian duo have already faced each other in two finals so far this season – the Singapore Open and the New Zealand Open – both of which Nele won, and could potentially meet once again in a title decider if the event went to seeding. Nele will start her campaign against one of Malaysia’s Yiwen Chan or England’s Torrie Malik, while World No.8 Tinne will play either Spain’s Marta Dominguez or German Wildcard Maya Weishar in the second round.

There are a host of in-form players elsewhere in the draw, with No.4 seed Salma Hany arriving on the back of her maiden World Tour title at the Australian Open victory, and World No.6 Georgina Kennedy, who is the No.3 seed for the event, having already reached at least the semi-finals of seven events this season. Kennedy will start her campaign against one of Malaysia’s Ainaa Amani or Nadia Pfister of Switzerland.

Up-and-coming star Fayrouz Aboelkheir is the No.5 seed in Germany and will arrive on the back of a confidence-boosting performance at the London Classic, where she took a game from World No.2 Hania El Hammamy before eventually losing out in a deciding game of their quarter-final match. No.6 seed Tesni Murphy, meanwhile, looks to be rediscovering her top form after a nasty injury earlier this season. Egypt’s Malak Khafagy and Switzerland’s Cindy Merlo round up the top eight seeds.

Wales’ Joel Makin is the top seed in the men’s event and will be looking to capture a first PSA World Tour title since February 2023. The World No.11 will be full of confidence after reaching the semi-finals of the London Classic last week and coming within a game of defeating World No.2 Paul Coll. Makin will get his campaign underway against either former World No.1 James Willstrop or England’s Tom Walsh.

No.2 seed Marwan ElShorbagy will be looking to exact revenge upon Makin in Hamburg after losing out to the Welshman in a dramatic final game tie-break in London last week. The Englishman sits in the same quarter of the draw as No.6 seed Dimitri Steinmann, and plays either compatriot Ben Smith or Squash in the Land runner-up Bernat Jaume in his opening match of the tournament.

Elsewhere, World No.19 and No.3 seed Mohamed ElSherbini will be looking to bounce back after being knocked out in Round 1 of the London Classic by Wildcard Declan James and further cement his position inside the world’s top 20. Meanwhile, Eain Yow Ng will be on the hunt for a first title since his Irish Open victory 12 months ago. The Malaysian has been named as the No.4 seed.

Five German players will look to draw upon the home support across both draws, with men’s No.6 seed Raphael Kandra the highest ranked of these. The World No.29 will open his tournament against either Switzerland’s Yannick Wilhelmi or Egypt’s Mazen Gamal. The other four home players taking to the court will be Saskia Beinhard, Katerina Tycova, Maya Weishar, and Valentin Rapp.

For more information on the German Open, visit the tournament website  here . You can also keep up to date with all the action on the  PSA website  or by following the PSA on  Twitter ,  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  TikTok  and  YouTube .

• German Open

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30 - 02 Jun 2024

European Open

Green Eagle Golf Courses, Hamburg, Germany

DP World Tour Partners

The World of Hans Zimmer –

A new dimension.

Powerful. Beautiful. Dramatic. Breathtaking. Strong. Touching. This is the music of two-time Academy Award ® winner Hans Zimmer. In 2024, his successful show The World of Hans Zimmer will receive a new musical programme and thus advance to an international concert series at the same time. The new subtitle “A New Dimension” already hints at this: Hans Zimmer is arranging a brand-new selection from his tremendously diverse collection of scores for The World of Hans Zimmer – A New Dimension. The audience will be taken on a unique musical journey that will immerse them in completely new dimensions.

The concert tour’s precursor The World of Hans Zimmer – A Symphonic Celebration first wowed audiences in Germany in 2018 and has since been on a triumphal march around the world. Hans Zimmer himself will not appear live on stage in The World of Hans Zimmer – A New Dimension but will function as the show’s curator and musical director. He says: “My aspiration with this new show is to preserve the culture of the orchestra and allow audiences to rediscover the unique facets of orchestral music. There are many background stories I would love to tell and long-time companions and friends I would like to introduce.”

The magic of Hans Zimmer’s works will continue to conjure live for audiences in 2024, along with some of the world’s most outstanding and renowned soloists and a masterful symphony orchestra.

With The World of Hans Zimmer, the “Hollywood Rebel” (according to the BBC) has created a glamorous, lively, exciting live experience of a very special kind.

Hans Zimmer’s extraordinary melodies and modern compositions captivate a huge worldwide fan base across generations. He has already energized countless international cinema blockbusters including “Dune,” “James Bond – No Time to Die,” “The Lion King,” “Gladiator,” “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “The Dark Knight” trilogy, “Interstellar,” “Last Samurai,” and “Top Gun: Maverick,” among others.

08.03.2024 O 2 Arena

09.03.2024 Mercedes-Benz Arena

10.03.2024 Barclays Arena

12.03.2024 LANXESS arena

Frankfurt/Main

15.03.2024 Festhalle Frankfurt

16.03.2024 Hanns-Martin-Schleyer-Halle

17.03.2024 Rudolf Weber – Arena

19.03.2024 Ziggo Dome

20.03.2024 ZAG Arena

22.03.2024 Olympiahalle München

23.03.2024 ARENA NÜRNBERGER Versicherung

24.03.2024 Wiener Stadthalle – Halle D

27.03.2024 Zénith Strasbourg

28.03.2024 Hallenstadion Zürich

30.03.2024 La Seine Musicale

31.03.2024 La Seine Musicale

03.04.2024 ING Arena

06.04.2024 OVO Hydro

07.04.2024 AO Arena

09.04.2024 Resorts World Arena Birmingham

10.04.2024 The O 2

12.04.2024 3Arena

16.04.2024 Zénith de Lille

17.04.2024 Zenith de Caen

18.04.2024 Arena Futuroscope

20.04.2024 Zenith Nantes Metropole

24.04.2024 Palau Sant Jordi

27.04.2024 Altice Arena

29.04.2024 WiZink Center

02.05.2024 Le Zénith Toulouse

03.05.2024 Zénith Oméga

04.05.2024 La Halle Tony Garnier

08.05.2024 Oslo Spectrum

09.05.2024 Scandinavium

12.05.2024 Tauron Arena

20.10.2024 QUARTERBACK Immobilien ARENA

21.10.2024 Mercedes-Benz Arena

23.10.2024 SAP ARENA

26.10.2024 Aviations Group Arena

27.10.2024 Arena Riga

28.10.2024 Tallinn Unibet Arena

30.10.2024 Tele 2 Arena

02.11.2024 Westfalenhalle

03.11.2024 Hanns-Martin-Schleyer-Halle

05.11.2024 Olympiahalle München

06.11.2024 Ondrej Nepela Arena

07.11.2024 MVM Dome

10.11.2024 Barclays Arena

11.11.2024 Ahoy

12.11.2024 Sportpaleis Antwerp

14.11.2024 Geneva ARENA

15.11.2024 St. Jakobshalle

17.11.2024 Zenith

20.11.2024 La Seine Musicale

21.11.2024 La Seine Musicale

23.11.2024 Arena Loire

24.11.2024 Arkea Arena

Clermont-Ferrand

26.11.2024 Zenith d’Auvergne

Saint-Etienne

27.11.2024 Zenith

Montpellier

29.11.2024 Zenith Sud

30.11.2024 Palais Nikaia

Official Tour Merchandise

powered by SANDBAG / MFL

Impressions

Gavin Greenaway

Lisa Gerrard

Carla Chamoun

Nokukhanya Dlamini

Gan-ya Ben-gur Akselrod

Vocalist (Soprano)

Juan Garcia-Herreros

Bass Guitar

Pedro Eustache

Multi Woodwinds Solist

Rusanda Panfili

Solo Violin

Eliane Correa

Mariko Muranaka

Alexios Anest

Aleksandra Šuklar

Mallets/Multi-Percussion

Lucy Landymore

Drums/Percussion

Luis Ribeiro

Multi-Percussion

“Hans Zimmer Live 2023”, “Hans Zimmer Live 2022”, “Hans Zimmer Revealed“ and “Hans Zimmer Live“ (between 2014 – 2019) as well as „The World of Hans Zimmer“ (on tour since 2018) are the only official touring productions produced and endorsed by Hans Zimmer’s production team and partners. The official websites are:  www.hanszimmerlive.com and www.worldofhanszimmer.com . On those sites you’ll find the latest information, and links to the official social media channels.

Yes, Hans Zimmer curated the musical set list and oversaw the artistic development. It is particular noteworthy that all musical arrangements have been newly conceived especially for this concert tour.

No. Hans does not perform live on stage in this show.

Yes, selected moments from many of the movies are shown.

About Hans Zimmer

Hans Zimmer has scored more than 500 projects across all mediums, which, combined, have grossed more than 28 billion dollars at the worldwide box office. Zimmer has been honored with two Academy Awards ® , three Golden Globes ® , four Grammys ® , an American Music Award, and a Tony ® Award. His work highlights include Dune, No Time to Die, Gladiator, The Thin Red Line, As Good as It Gets, Rain Man, The Dark Knight trilogy, Inception, Thelma and Louise, The Last Samurai, 12 Years A Slave, Blade Runner 2049 (co-scored w/ Benjamin Wallfisch) and Dunkirk, as well as recent film scores including Top Gun: Maverick, Wonder Woman 1984 and The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run. Most recently, Zimmer won the Academy Award ® for Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures for Dune. In 2019, Zimmer scored the live-action remake of The Lion King, for which he received a Grammy ® nomination for Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media.

Zimmer has completed highly successful stops around the globe with his “Hans Zimmer Live” tour. The acclaimed concert sensation, which launched in Europe in 2022, continued from April to June 2023 with incredible success.

Recognition for Hans Zimmer (selection)

• 1989 : Rain Man
• 1995 : Der König der Löwen (gewonnen)
• 1997 : Rendezvous mit einem Engel
• 1998 : Besser geht’s nicht
• 1999 : Der Prinz von Ägypten
• 1999: Der schmale Grat
• 2001 : Gladiator
• 2010 : Sherlock Holmes
• 2011 : Inception
• 2015 : Interstellar
• 2017: Dunkirk
• 2022: Dune (winner)
• 2001 : Gladiator (gewonnen)
• 2002 : Pearl Harbor
• 2003 : Spirit – Der wilde Mustang (Nominiert für das beste Lied)
• 2004 : Last Samurai
• 2005 : Spanglish
• 2007 : The Da Vinci Code – Sakrileg
• 2009 : Frost/Nixon
• 2014 : 12 Years a Slave
• 2016: Hidden Figure
• 1991 : Miss Daisy und ihr Chauffeur
• 1996 : Crimson Tide – In tiefster Gefahr (gewonnen)
• 2007 : Pirates of the Caribbean – Fluch der Karibik 2
• 2007: The Da Vinci Code – Sakrileg
• 2009 : The Dark Knight (gewonnen)
• 2010: Sherlock Holmes
• 2013: The Dark Knight Rises
• 2019: Blade Runner 2049
• 1992: Thelma & Louise
• 1995: Der König der Löwen
• 2001: Gladiator
• 2009 : The Dark Knight
• 2011: Inception
• 2015: Interstellar
• 2017: Blade Runner 2049 + Dunkirk
• 1999 : Der schmale Grat (gewonnen)
• 2002 : Hannibal
• 2004 : Last Samurai (gewonnen)
• 2006 : The Da Vinci Code – Sakrileg
• 2010 : Inception (gewonnen)
• 2013: 12 Years a Slave
• 2014: Interstellar
• 2016: Hidden Figures
• 2018: Widows
• 2010: Am 8. Dezember 2010 erhielt Zimmer den 2426. Stern am Hollywood Walk of Fame im Herzen Hollywoods. Anwesend war der Starregisseur Christopher Nolan, mit dem er mit Inception einen weltweiten Erfolg feierte. Nolan sagte über Zimmer: „To me, there is no composer working who has done more to define the sound of contemporary films.“ ( Für mich gibt es keinen noch tätigen Komponisten, der mehr dafür getan hat, das Klangbild zeitgenössischer Filme zu prägen. )
• 2011: Stern auf dem Boulevard der Stars in Berlin
• 2011: World Soundtrack Award for Best Original Film Score für Inception
• 2018: Max Steiner Award
• 1995 : The Lion King(winner)
• 1997 : The Preacher’s Wife
• 1998 : As Good as It Gets
• 1999 : The Prince of Egypt
• 1999: The Thin Red Line
• 2001 : Gladiator (winner)
• 2003 : Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron(nominated for best song)
• 2004 : The Last Samurai
• 2007 : The Da Vinci Code
• 1991 : Driving Miss Daisy
• 1995 : The Lion King (winner)
• 1996 : Crimson Tide (winner)
• 2007 : Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest
• 2007: The Da Vinci Code
• 2009 : The Dark Knight (winner)
• 1995: The Lion King
• 1999 : The Thin Red Line (winner)
• 2004 : The Last Samurai (winner)
• 2006 : The Da Vinci Code
• 2010 : Inception (winner)
• 2010: On 8 December 2010 the 2426th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the heart of Hollywood was dedicated to Hans Zimmer. Star director Christopher Nolan, with whom Zimmer celebrated global success with Inception , was present at the event. Speaking of Zimmer, Nolan said: “To me, there is no composer working who has done more to define the sound of contemporary films.”
• 2011: Star on the Boulevard der Stars in Berlin
• 2011: World Soundtrack Award for Best Original Film Score for Inception

Hans Zimmer filmography (selected films from 1988)

• Burning Secret
• Nightmare at Noon (together with Stanley Myers)
• A World Apart
• Taffin (together with Stanley Myers)
• The Nature of the Beast (together with Stanley Myers)
• Spies Inc. (together with Fiachra Trench)
• The Fruit Machine
• Driving Miss Daisy
• Diamond Skulls
• Pacific Heights
• Fools of Fortune
• Days of Thunder
• Bird on a Wire
• Thelma & Louise
• Regarding Henry
• Radio Flyer
• A League of Their Own
• The Power of One
• Younger and Younger
• The House of the Spirits
• True Romance
• Point of No Return
• Calendar Girl
• I’ll Do Anything
• Renaissance Man
• The Lion King
• Nine Months
• Beyond Rangoon
• Crimson Tide
• Something to Talk About (together with Graham Preskett)
• The Preacher’s Wife
• Muppet Treasure Island
• The Rock (together with Nick Glennie-Smith and Harry Gregson-Williams)
• Broken Arrow
• As Good as It Gets
• The Peacemaker
• Smilla’s Sense of Snow (together with Harry Gregson-Williams)
• The Thin Red Line
• The Prince of Egypt
• The Last Days
• Chill Factor (together with John Powell)
• An Everlasting Piece
• Mission: Impossible II
• Gladiator (together with Lisa Gerrard )
• The Road to El Dorado (together with John Powell)
• Black Hawk Down
• Pearl Harbor
• The Pledge (together with Klaus Badelt)
• Invincible (together with Klaus Badelt)
• Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron
• The Last Samurai
• Something’s Gotta Give (together with several other composers)
• Matchstick Men
• Tears of the Sun
• Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (composed by Klaus Badelt , produced by Zimmer)
• Laura ’ s Star (together with Nick Glennie-Smith)
• King Arthur
• Thunderbirds (together with Ramin Djawadi)
• The Weather Man (gemeinsam mit James S. Levine)
• The Little Polar Bear 2 – The Mysterious Island (together with Nick Glennie-Smith)
• Madagascar (together with James Dooley and Heitor Pereira )
• Batman Begins (together with James Newton Howard)
• The Holiday
• Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest
• The Da Vinci Code
• The Simpsons Movie
• Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End
• August Rush (together with Mark Mancina)
• Road to Fame ( Casi divas )
• Kung Fu Panda (together with John Powell)
• The Dark Knight (together with James Newton Howard)
• The Burning Plain
• Madagascar 2
• Frost/Nixon
• Angels & Demons
• Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (supplementary music)
• Sherlock Holmes
• It’s Complicated (together with Heitor Pereira)
• The Pacific (mini series, together with Geoff Zanelli and Blake Neely)
• Megamind (together with Lorne Balfe )
• Despicable Me (score producer)
• How Do You Know
• The Dilemma (together with Lorne Balfe)
• Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (together with Rodrigo y Gabriela)
• Kung Fu Panda 2 (together with John Powell)
• Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows
• Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted
• The Dark Knight Rises
• The Bible (mini series, together with Lorne Balfe)
• Man of Steel
• The Lone Ranger
• Morgan’s Last Love
• 12 Years a Slave
• Winter’s Tale (together with Rupert Gregson-Williams)
• The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (together with Pharrell Williams)
• Son of God (together with Lorne Balfe )
• Interstellar
• Divergent (score producer)
• Woman in Gold (together with Martin Phipps)
• The Little Prince
• Kung Fu Panda 3
• 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi (score producer)
• Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (together with Junkie XL)
• Hidden Figures
• The Boss Baby
• Oceans: Our Blue Planet
• X-Men: Dark Phoenix
• The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run
• Wonder Woman 1984
• The Surviver
• No Time To Die
• Army of Thieves
• The Unforgivable
• Top Gun: Maverick

2009: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (together with Lorne Balfe)

2011: Crysis 2 (together with Lorne Balfe, Tilman Sillescu and Borislav Slavov)

2011: Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure (together with Lorne Balfe)

2013: Beyond: Two Souls (production; music by Lorne Balfe and Normand Corbeil)

2018:  Fifa 19 (production; music by Lorne Balfe)

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The 9 Best Castle Tours to Take in Germany

Germany has about 25,000 castles, so it’s not so difficult to find one. What is harder, is finding one that has something genuinely interesting to look at and also someone on hand to explain what everything is. Here are our nine best picks for castle tours in Germany.

1. neuschwanstein castle.

Always at the top of every list of castles to see in Germany, Neuschwanstein is packed full of tourists nearly all the time. Still, it’s so iconic, a visit in the off-season is still worth it. Neuschwanstein can only be visited by guided tour, which must be booked for a specific time at least 48 hours before you arrive. If you are late collecting your tickets or showing up for the tour, your spot may be forfeited. Adult tickets are €13 each and children 18 or under attending with a paying adult are free.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Neuschwansteinstr. 20, Schwangau, Germany , +49 8362 930830

Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany | © Shutterstock

2. Wernigerode Castle

Historical Landmark

3. Schwerin Castle

Building, Museum

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5. Heidelberg Castle

6. wartburg castle.

7. Burg Eltz

Germany’s best example of a Medieval castle is unique in that the same family has owned it for more than 850 years. They’ve not had an easy time of it, but being situated atop a 70-metre (230-foot) rock does help keep intruders at bay. Immerse yourself in the world of knights, damsels and distress. Entrance with a guided tour costs €10 per adult. English tours are available, but you need to write ahead of time to reserve your place.

Burg Eltz, Wierschem, Germany, +49 2672 950500

Burg Eltz | © haveseen/Shutterstock

8. Hohenschwangau

The neighbour to Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau was the summer home of King Ludwig II and his residence before Neuschwanstein was rebuilt in the 19th century. Since this is one of the most popular tourist sites in all of Germany, tickets must be booked at least two days in advance and are often sold out in the summer. All tours are guided and available in English.

Hohenschwangau, Alpseestraße 30, Schwangau, Germany , +49 8362 930830

Hohenschwangau Castle, Germany | © Free-Photos/Pixabay

9. Schloss Augustusburg Brühl

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, Schloss Augustusburg is a gem just 30 minutes by train from Cologne and Bonn. Originally the residence of the Archbishop-Elector of Cologne, the palace is publicly owned and one of the rare examples of Neo-Classical architecture in the area. The tromp l’œil in the staircase alone is worth a visit. Tours are in German, but if there are enough English speakers in the group, the guide will usually switch. The entrance fee is €8.50 and includes the tour.

Schloss Augustusburg, Parkplatz, Max-Ernst-Allee, Brühl, Germany , +49 223 244000

Schloss Augustusburg | © Torsten Heymer/WikiCommons

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Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Guides & Tips

Top tips for travelling in germany.

See & Do

A voyage through germany: the lowdown on river cruising.

Craft and Culture in the Lesser-Known Gems of Eastern Germany

Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in thuringia, germany.

The Best Spa Hotels in Baden-Baden

The Best Hotels in Germany for Every Traveller

The Best Hotels to Book in Garmisch for Every Traveller

Stay Curious: Experience Germany From Your Living Room

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Bavaria

The Story Behind Germany's Neuschwanstein Castle

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Breathtakingly beautiful buildings in germany.

Places in Germany for History Lovers

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Tour Germany’s Incredible Historic Sites With a Powerful Past

Posted: December 24, 2023 | Last updated: December 24, 2023

Places with a past

Germany has seen all forms of human and natural history, and its landscapes and cities still have many of those stories on display. There are sites bearing witness to the first humans arriving on the continent of Europe, soaring places of worship and architectural achievements that have influenced the rest of the world. From monuments to mudflats, here are some of the most historic sites in Germany according to the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Aachen Cathedral

It’s hard to decide whether this 8th-century structure is more beautiful outside or in. The cathedral was originally built as a chapel for Emperor Charlemagne (who was buried here) and further expanded and embellished in the Middle Ages. The Gothic exterior is elegant and imposing while the interior dazzles with marble columns, bronze gates, an intricate mosaic and a gilded dome (pictured). There’s even a stone throne, upon which German emperors were crowned here until 1531, while the cathedral shelters priceless treasures including a bust of Charlemagne.

Haus am Horn

Weimar was the birthplace of Bauhaus , one of the world’s most influential schools of design and architecture – yet its presence here is only discernible in a few remaining structures and a museum , which opened in 2019. The controversial avant-garde school moved to Dessau in 1925 and then to Berlin in 1932, and was forced to close completely a year later by the Nazi regime. The 1923-built Haus am Horn, an experimental residential house in a striking, steel and concrete cubic design, is the only Bauhaus-designed building in the city.

Masters’ Houses

Some of the Bauhaus movement’s greatest names lived in this cluster of seven homes in Dessau , where the design school moved from Weimar in 1925. The residences were designed and decorated by Bauhaus professors Henry van de Velde, Walter Gropius, Hannes Meyer, László Moholy-Nagy and Wassily Kandinsky. Comprised of one detached home and three identical semi-detached houses split into apartments, the interlocking cubic structures are among the most striking examples of the progressive – and hugely influential – style Bauhaus became known for.

Hainich National Park

Swathes of ancient and primeval beech forests are protected under  UNESCO World Heritage status , including the native woodland of Hainich National Park . This wonderful wilderness was once a restricted military zone, which allowed the woodland to grow relatively undisturbed – preserving one of the last remaining primeval beech forests in Central Europe. It’s home to some fascinating creatures, too, with lynx, wolves and wild cats among those who roam the land, which is dissected by a zigzagging canopy walk that weaves through the treetops.

This network of sand spits, mud flats and wetlands is the largest such intertidal system in the world , spilling into the Netherlands and Denmark as well as Germany. The water is scattered with the wildly beautiful Frisian (or Wadden) Islands, known for pale sandy beaches and spa resorts. But it’s the waterways that swirl with historical and natural significance. With up to 12 million birds passing through the area each year, it’s one of the world’s most important areas for migratory birds.

Lorsch Abbey

The imposing gatehouse is the standout feature of Lorsch Abbey , a church and monastery founded in 764 and one of the finest surviving monuments from Germany’s early medieval Carolingian Renaissance period. The entryway is more than 1,200 years old yet wears its age remarkably well, with its archways, turrets and pitched roof impeccably preserved. Though other parts of the site have been ravaged by time and fire damage, much remains intact as a chronicler of monastic life.

Hedeby and the Danevirke

These connected sites are considered among the best preserved from the Viking era, offering a captivating glimpse into what life might have been like towards the end of the first millennium AD. The archaeological finds here date back as far as the 6th century, in fact, and with roads, buildings and cemeteries discovered in trading town Hedeby. Today, reconstructed homes bring the period back to life, while the defensive forts of the Danevirke show a complex network of walls, mounds and ditches that protected the trading hub.

Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe

Water features don’t come much grander than this incredible example of man-made design enhancing the dramatic beauty of nature. The construction of this Baroque “bergpark” (mountain park) began in 1689 when the Landgrave of Hesse-Kassel, Charles I, created a display of waterworks that cascade from a building topped by a copper statue of Hercules. Along the way are waterfalls, rapids, grottoes and a fountain, interspersed by a Chinese-style pagoda and Roman aqueduct.

Bauhaus Building

The progressive design movement Bauhaus was only in Dessau, where it had moved from Weimar, for seven years. In fact its time in Germany was short-lived, with its professors and many alumni fleeing the country in 1933, having been forced to close what the Nazi party described as its “degenerate” school. Its sweeping influence, from iconic chairs by Mies van der Rohe to skyscrapers in New York and Chicago, has since been recognized. Dessau’s Bauhaus Building , designed by the movement’s founder Walter Gropius as the new school and workshop, is among sites protected by UNESCO .

Gartenstadt Falkenberg

These warm-hued homes are among six Modernism housing estates in Berlin that have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . These were bold, colorful examples of a new attitude to social housing, with cheery hues, clever use of space and lots of natural light creating a striking contrast to the dark, cramped flats that were previously the norm. Gartenstadt Falkenberg was the first to be constructed, built by Bruno Taut from 1913-15. Building styles changed under Nazi rule from 1933, though most of these bright and beautiful buildings survived.

Großsiedlung Siemensstadt

Another example of Berlin’s progressive social housing movement , which reached its peak in the 1920s, this joyful Modernism estate was hugely influenced by the Bauhaus design movement. In fact the school’s founder Walter Gropius was one of the six architects involved in its construction in the late 1920s and early 1930s. The apartment complex, which provided affordable housing for workers at the nearby Siemens factory, was a deliberate antidote to cheerless blocks and incorporated open spaces and communal areas to foster a sense of community.

The Westwork of Corvey

This monastery, convent and abbey was built on the riverbank by French Benedictine monks in AD 822, when it was among many such structures. Today, the central building’s westwork (western facade) is the only standing structure dating back to the early medieval period of the Carolingian era. Perhaps its rural location, in West­phalia, northwestern Germany, aided its survival, with the imposing structures and grand interiors with vaulted halls and columns remarkably intact. The underground remains of a “lost” medieval city were also discovered nearby.

Augustusburg Castle

The hunting lodge that shares the grounds with this decadent Brühl residence is palatial enough. Built on the edge of a tucked-away grove in the German Rococo style, Falkenlust has lavish rooms fit for a king or indeed the Archbishop Clemens August, who had the structures built in the early 18th century. His castle , though, is something else entirely. It looms elegantly in buttercup-yellow and white above impeccably landscaped gardens, reflecting the Baroque opulence of the time.

Caves of the Swabian Jura

The six caves of the Swabian Jura or Swabian Alps, a mountain range in Germany’s Baden-Württemberg, effectively house art galleries and a series of natural history museums. This is one of the areas where, during the last ice age, humans first arrived in Europe, and a rich array of artworks, musical instruments and jewelry were excavated from the caves in the mid-19th century. Carved figurines of mammoths, horses and mythical creatures are among the world’s oldest examples of figurative art.

Naumburg Cathedral

The dramatic spires of this 11th-century cathedral can be seen from pretty much every part of the town of Naumburg, towering above pretty red-roofed buildings and gazing across at surrounding hills and vineyards. The Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul, or Naumburg Cathedral , encompasses Romanesque and Gothic features, and is just as beguiling on the inside. Its choir is dotted with life-size statues of the cathedral’s founders including Uta, described as the most beautiful woman of the Middle Ages.

Maulbronn Monastery

This former Cistercian abbey oozes charm, color and intrigue. Just the fact that its many structures still stand in such impeccable condition seems like a miracle, while the grounds are rich in religious, cultural and architectural history. There’s the Paradise, which forms a vaulted entryway to the church and is a masterpiece of early Gothic design – yet the name of its master building remains a mystery. Its colorful medieval cloister buildings (pictured) are especially charming.

Schloss Belvedere

Weimar underwent an incredible cultural renaissance from the late 18th century – so much so that a raft of its buildings and other sites have UNESCO World Heritage status as Classical Weimar . It would be hard to pick a more striking site here than this Baroque castle, though. Schloss Belvedere was built as a summer residence or pleasure palace for Duke Ernst August. The elegant structures are surrounded by equally elegant grounds, including an orangery and labyrinth.

Peacock Island

Counted among the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Berlin and neighboring Potsdam, this river island is like something from a fairy tale or children’s picture book. The island on the River Havel was settled thousands of years ago, with Iron Age artefacts unearthed by archaeologists. But it’s the pristine palace , built as a summer residence for Friedrich Wilhelm II in the late 18th century, that’s the real draw. Details such as the cast iron bridge, spanning two towers, add to the charm – as do the peacocks that roam the gardens.

Würzburg Residence

This Baroque palace in southern Germany was built and decorated within the same century, which is pretty fast compared to many similarly sized structures. Because of this it’s not only one of the most beautiful such palaces in Germany, it’s also one of the most cohesive in terms of style and vision. Construction began in 1720 under Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp Franz, who hired the period’s most renowned architects, landscapers and decorators to create an ostentatious work of art.

Muskauer Park

The bold red New Palace is the most eye-catching part of this park, which crosses over the border into Poland. But it’s the landscaping of the grounds that has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list . The grounds that make up Muskauer Park were designed by Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau in the early 19th century. Inspired by English gardens, it bucked trends for manicured lawns and classical landscaping and instead used native plants and blooms to seamlessly and beautifully blend with nature.

Goethe's Garden House

German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is among the artists and intellectuals credited with transforming Weimar into a hub of culture and architecture. The home where he was born in 1749 is also in the town and operates as a museum, though his garden house is perhaps the most charming of all. It’s located in the Park on the Ilm, with both among the sites making up the UNESCO World Heritage listing for Classical Weimar .

Speyer Cathedral

German emperors were buried at Speyer Cathedral for almost 300 years from the late 11th century, which gives some idea as to its importance. It’s also the largest Romanesque church in the world, having been extended from a flat-ceilinged basilica to a grand vaulted structure in 1077. The significance of the church goes beyond its size, though. Its groundbreaking design, from the gallery that encircles the building to the series of arcades, was hugely influential on European architecture.

Sanssouci Palace

Potsdam is so rich in opulent architecture that it’s been dubbed the “Prussian Versailles” – and Sanssouci Palace is the jewel in its gilded crown. Built in the mid-18th century as the summer home of Frederick the Great, its name translates as “without a care” – and it would be tough to worry in such gorgeous surroundings. There are even other palaces, including the Charlottenhof Palace and New Palace, on its beautifully landscaped grounds. UNESCO World Heritage includes Sanssouci Palace with other structures and parks in Potsdam and neighboring Berlin.

Off the northern shore of Lake Constance, Germany’s largest lake, Reichenau is a glorious blend of natural beauty, bucolic farmland and early medieval architecture. A Benedictine monastery was founded here in AD 724 and several churches and monastic buildings remain on the island. It’s also home to well-preserved wall paintings, vineyards – and some pretty impressive vegetables from tomatoes to lettuces (pictured).

Discover these surprising German sights around the world

Cologne Cathedral

It took successive armies of builders more than 600 years to complete this Gothic masterpiece, which is the most recognizable and iconic landmark of the city by the Rhine. Construction of Cologne Cathedral began in 1248 and, though it wasn’t completed until 1880, the final result was remarkably faithful to the original medieval plans. The grandeur of the five-sided basilica is equalled only by the contents, which includes statues, stained-glass windows and a shrine to the Three Wise Men.

Museum Island

The buildings that make up this unique cluster of cultural institutions in Berlin are as important for their role in the story of the museum as for the art and artifacts they contain. Museum Island or Museumsinsel encompasses five world-class institutions on Spree Island, right in the heart of the city and accessed via bridges. Begun under Prussian rule and built between 1824 and 1930, the buildings include the Pergamon Museum and Altes Museum, which was the first public museum when it opened in 1830.

Duchess Anna Amalia Library

This library is pretty nice to admire from the outside, with its buttery stone façade. But it’s the interior that truly stuns and particularly the Rococo Hall (pictured) opened in 1766. Duchess Anna Amalia is credited with ushering in Weimar’s cultural and artistic renaissance, appointing poet Christoph Martin Wieland as her sons’ tutor. Other literary luminaries followed and many played a role in curating the library’s collections. The building was damaged in a fire in 2004 and reopened three years later after extensive renovations.

Wartburg Castle

Perched high above the town of Eisenach, hilltop Wartburg Castle was the first fortress in Germany to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its origins are believed to date back to 1067, though the oldest surviving part is the 12th-century great hall – with later additions and 19th-century reconstructions giving the façade an eclectic charm. Aside from its aesthetic appeal, and the way it blends beautifully into its forested surroundings, the castle is especially important as the place where Martin Luther translated the Bible.

Regensburg old town

Regensburg’s old town is both a remarkably preserved medieval city and a vibrant urban center. Founded in the 2nd century AD and named an imperial city in the Roman Empire, this was the first capital of Bavaria and is so rich in historic importance that it’s crammed with more than 1,500 listed buildings, including close to 1,000 designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites . In other words, it’s a charmer, from its position on the Danube and colorful homes to important structures like St. Peter's Cathedral and the ancient Stone Bridge.

Bremen Market Square

This charming market square is the heart of Bremen, a city that straddles the Weser River in northwest Germany. It’s also home to two UNESCO designated structures , both dating from the early 15th century: the grand, Gothic town hall and a stone statue of Roland, symbolizing civic freedom. Other highlights include 11th-century St. Peter’s Cathedral and “The Hole of Bremen”, a drain cover with a slot for coins. The latter is inspired by the legend of t he M usicians of Bremen – a group of animal performers said to reward donations with their music.

Messel Pit Fossil Site

From fossilized bats to perfectly preserved primates, Messel Pit is considered the world’s best site for shedding light on the early evolution of mammals. It was an oil shale mine until the late 1960s and nearly became a refuse dump until the government stepped in and placed it under protection. Since then, some incredible discoveries have been made of intact plants and animals from the Eocene age (up to 48 million years ago). Finds include Ida, the most complete primate fossil ever discovered.

Pilgrimage Church of Wies

The miracle happened before this Rococo church was created – though, looking at its riotously ornate interior, this incredible structure itself seems pretty miraculous. In 1738, it’s said a wooden figure of Christ, mounted on a column in the hamlet of Wies in Bavaria, was seen to shed tears. In response to the miracle, a simple wooden chapel was erected to house the statue – and it became a pilgrimage site. Architect Dominikus Zimmermann thought the statue deserved more, building his opulent masterpiece between 1745 and 1754.

The High Cathedral of St. Peter

The southwestern city of Trier is rich in Roman history. On the Moselle River and surrounded by vineyards, the city was an empirical colony from the 1st century AD and a trading hub so significant that it became known as the “second Rome”. Its monuments are so impeccably preserved that it resembles an open-air museum, with important UNESCO-listed structures including this 4th-century cathedral, the oldest bishop’s church in Germany. It stands above a former emperor’s palace, with the original Roman walls still visible inside.

Margravial Opera House

This Baroque masterpiece in Bayreuth is the last remaining structure of its kind. Built between 1745 and 1750, the gorgeously sumptuous theater and opera house keeps the tradition of Baroque court opera alive, with the incredible acoustics provided by the original materials of wood and canvas. The interior, with ornate carvings, gilded details and layers that create the illusion of depth, is both decadent and dazzling.

Bamberg old town

Towns don’t come much prettier than this Bavarian beauty. In the north of the region, Bamberg has some perfectly preserved structures sweeping from the 11th to 19th centuries and had a huge architectural influence in Germany and beyond. Unsurprisingly, given its beauty, it attracted some great writers and philosophers and was a center of Enlightenment. Highlights include the Romanesque-Gothic cathedral, the Baroque New Palace and the medieval stone bridges that lead to Altes Rathaus (the old town hall), on an artificial island.

See more of Germany's most beautiful towns and villages here

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A Tour Through Solar Eclipses of the Past

• Alan Taylor
• April 2, 2024

As much of North America prepares for the upcoming total solar eclipse next week, I thought it would be fun to share some images from the recent (and not-so-recent) past of previous eclipses—annular, partial, and total—from around the world. Also pictured are some of the many observers sharing this fleeting experience, “ witnessing the planetary version of a lightning strike ,” together in stadiums, parks, and beaches.

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Young people watch the rare sight of a partial solar eclipse at sunset, as seen from Manila Bay, Philippines, on January 26, 2009. #

On April 8, 1921, people gaze upward to view a partial solar eclipse in Paris. #

A total solar eclipse, seen above Svalbard, Longyearbyen, Norway, on March 20, 2015 #

People watch the solar eclipse at Saluki Stadium on the campus of Southern Illinois University on August 21, 2017, in Carbondale, Illinois. #

This photograph taken on October 25, 2022, shows a view of a partial solar eclipse visible behind a bird on a tree in Istanbul. #

As the moon crossed between the Sun and Earth during the annular eclipse on October 14, 2023, its shadow darkened skies across North America, as seen from an orbiting NASA satellite. #

People take photos with their smartphones as they watch an annular solar eclipse on Jabal Arba in Al Hufuf, in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, on December 26, 2019. #

On August 21, 2017, Shenandoah National Park hosted the Night Sky Festival to watch as a partial solar eclipse was visible overhead. #

The "ring of fire" effect caused during the annular eclipse of the sun over Albuquerque, New Mexico, on October 14, 2023 #

Students of the Jennings School District view a solar eclipse on August 21, 2017, in St. Louis. #

A partial solar eclipse is seen behind the centuries-old Raghunath Hindu temple in Srinagar, Indian controlled Kashmir, on October 25, 2022. #

The sun rises next to the Statue of Liberty during an annular eclipse on June 10, 2021, in New York City. #

Crescent-shaped shadows are pictured on a sidewalk as light passes through tree leaves during a partial solar eclipse in Oklahoma City on August 21, 2017. #

A woman observes an annular solar eclipse at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, in Mexico City, on October 14, 2023. #

The sun's corona becomes visible during a total solar eclipse. #

Friends watch an eclipse together on a Menan Butte in Menan, Idaho, on August 21, 2017. #

A partial solar eclipse is seen above Manama, Bahrain, on December 26, 2019. #

Visitors to Shenandoah National Park look at images of the eclipsed sun seen through the holes of a colander on August 21, 2017. The tiny holes behave like pinhole lenses, showing the outline of the eclipsed sun on the ground. #

Spectators line the beach to view a total solar eclipse on November 14, 2012, in Palm Cove, Australia. #

The International Space Station is seen in silhouette as it transits the sun at roughly five miles a second during a partial solar eclipse, viewed from Ross Lake, Northern Cascades National Park, Washington, on August 21, 2017. #

People watch a total solar eclipse at Yonsei University in Seoul, on July 22, 2009. #

A view of the total solar eclipse from a commercial flight, seen while overflying La Serena, Chile, on July 2, 2019. #

The moon passes in front of the sun during a partial solar eclipse, as seen over Manila Bay, Philippines, on January 26, 2009. #

The enthusiasts Tanner Person ( right ) and Josh Bliek, both from Vacaville, California, watch a total solar eclipse while standing atop Carroll Rim Trail at Painted Hills, a unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, near Mitchell, Oregon, on August 21, 2017. #

We want to hear what you think about this article. Submit a letter to the editor or write to [email protected].

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