Best of Germany
13 Days from $2,825 per person
Baroque cities, the Bavarian Alps and mythical Black Forest – this one's straight out of a Brothers Grimm fairy-tale. Circle north, south, east and west to see the Pied Piper's Hamelin, medieval Rothenburg and Munich's musical Glockenspiel. Explore the magical castles of Neuschwanstein, and gain insight into a ‘divided Germany' in Berlin and the little village of Mödlareuth.
Overview
Baroque cities, the Bavarian Alps and mythical Black Forest – this one's straight out of a Brothers Grimm fairy-tale. Circle north, south, east and west to see the Pied Piper's Hamelin, medieval Rothenburg and Munich's musical Glockenspiel. Explore the magical castles of Neuschwanstein, and gain insight into a ‘divided Germany' in Berlin and the little village of Mödlareuth.
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Day 1: USA - Europe
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included). -
Day 2: Arrive Frankfurt
On arrival at Frankfurt Airport transfers will operate at 9.30 am, 12 noon and 2.30 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Welcome to Frankfurt – a city renowned for its old-world charm and modern sophistication which you will have a brief opportunity to enjoy before meeting your Travel Director this afternoon for an orientation of the medieval Römerplatz and dynamic financial district. This evening we enjoy a Welcome Reception with our fellow travelers, including a light meal and welcome drink.
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Day 3: Frankfurt – Rhine Cruise – Cologne – Düsseldorf
Board your leisurely cruise along the mighty River Rhine past romantic vineyard-clad hills. Stop to experience an unforgettable Be My Guest banquet in a fairy-tale 13th century castle perched high above the river valley. After lunch, we continue north before arriving in Cologne, where we will view the Gothic spires of its magnificent cathedral during our orientation of the city. We continue to Düsseldorf where we will dine tonight at our hotel. -
Day 4: Düsseldorf – Hamelin – Hamburg
Journey through the lush green landscape of Lower Saxony, stopping in the legendary town of Hamelin, immortalized in the medieval tale of the Pied Piper. We continue to the international trade center of Hamburg, where we'll join our Travel Director for an orientation tour of the city's iconic sights. -
Day 5: Hamburg – Berlin Sightseeing (2 Nights)
Follow the picturesque Elbe Valley from Hamburg, crossing the former ‘Iron Curtain' to the historic city of Berlin, whose once-turbulent history has shaped its rebirth as a charismatic capital city. Join your Local Specialist to explore the iconic landmarks of a unified Berlin. See the neo-Renaissance Reichstag, Tiergarten, Brandenburg Gate, Unter den Linden Boulevard and Kurfürstendamm, renowned for its shopping and entertainment. Enjoy some time at leisure this afternoon to explore the city on your terms. -
Day 6: Berlin Sightseeing
Ascend the iconic Berlin TV Tower for inspiring Cultural Insight providing 360° views of the city and meandering River Spree. Enjoy some time at leisure this afternoon to explore the city on your terms. See the remnants of the Berlin Wall, consider visiting the infamous Checkpoint Charlie or enjoy an Optional Experience to the District of Potsdam, the former Prussian royal seat, for sightseeing and an unforgettable meal. -
Day 7: Berlin – Dresden
A short drive south brings us to Dresden, the ‘Florence on the Elbe'. See the Semper Opera, Zinger Palace and fully reconstructed Frauenkirche. Consider delving into the treasures of Dresden joining an Optional Experience to explore this elegant city. -
Day 8: Dresden – Mödlareuth – Nuremberg
Visit the village of Mölareuth which inherited the moniker of "Little Berlin" due to its wall separating 'east' and 'west'. Gain insights into a divided Germany at its open-air museum and see a section of the original wall with its security features. This afternoon we arrive in the Bavarian city of Nuremburg. See the mighty castle ramparts and St. Sebald's Cathedral on your orientation tour of the city, then spend the rest of your evening at leisure indulging in grilled Nürnberger and sauerkraut. -
Day 9: Nuremberg – Rothenburg – Munich (2 Nights)
Amble through the charming cobblestone streets of Rothenburg, its beautiful medieval center seemingly frozen in time and encircled by a fortified town wall that remains intact after centuries. See the beautiful Market Square lined by quaint half-timbered houses and the Old Town Hall before following parts of the Romantic Road through picturesque villages and pristine countryside to the sophisticated city of Munich. See the Olympic Stadium, built as the main venue for the 1972 Olympic Games, before arriving at your hotel. -
Day 10: Munich Orientation
Today is yours to embrace the Bavarian heritage of Munich. Enjoy an orientation tour of the city's landmarks including Odeonsplatz and Marienplatz, famous for its Glockenspiel, enacting stories from the 16th century. Explore Baroque palaces and vibrant markets, and embrace the Bavarian region's rich beer brewing heritage at Hofbräuhaus am Platzl, built in the 16th century by Maximilian I. -
Day 11: Munich – Neuschwanstein – Black Forest
Snap your fingers and be transported to a land of fables and folklore. This morning we tread in the footsteps of shy King Ludwig II visiting his fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle. We continue through the magical countryside to the Black Forest, whose mystical landscape inspired fantasy and fiction from the famous Brothers Grimm. This evening, we dine at our hotel. -
Day 12: Black Forest – Heidelberg – Frankfurt
Admire the centuries-old craft of cuckoo clock making during a Cultural Insight before driving to the famous university town of Heidelberg, straddling the Neckar River. View the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, as well as the Baroque-style Old Town with its bustling market squares and colorful façades. Our exploration of the fascinating sights and sounds of Germany is at its end. Tonight we enjoy a Farewell Dinner with our travel companions reminiscing over the highlights of our trip. -
Day 13: Depart Frankfurt
After breakfast we say a fond farewell to our newfound friends and Frankfurt after a memorable vacation. Return transfers on the last travel day will arrive at Frankfurt Airport at 8 am and 10 am. Conditions apply.
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 Sep 18 | 19 Sep 18 |
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$2,825pp | Call 1-877-622-9109 | |||
| 14 Sep 18 | 26 Sep 18 |
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$3,050pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 28 Sep 18 | 10 Oct 18 |
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$2,925pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 5 Oct 18 | 17 Oct 18 |
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$2,925pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 12 Oct 18 | 24 Oct 18 |
|
$2,825pp | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $670 p.p.
Triple Room Discount: $10 p.p.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $117 per person.
Airport transfers: On arrival at Frankfurt Airport transfers will operate at 9:30 am, 12 noon and 2:30 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Return transfers on the last travel day will arrive at Frankfurt Airport at 8:00 am and 10:00 am.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Personal Flight Options
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Most Meals
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Hotel Tips
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
Meal Summary
11 nights, 11 hot buffet breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners.
Included Highlights
Be My Guest
- Enjoy a banquet and stories of knights and feuding lords in a fairytale 13th century castle perched high above the Rhine Valley
Cultural Insight
- Gain priority access to the Berlin TV Tower with fantastic 360° views of the city and watch as skilled craftsman capture the distinctive sound of the cuckoo demonstrating the centuries' old craft of clock making in the Black Forest
Local Specialist
- For included sightseeing in Berlin
Hidden Treasure
- Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure
Sightseeing Highlights
- City tour in Berlin
- Orientation of Frankfurt, Cologne, Hamburg, Dresden, Nuremberg, Rothenburg, Munich, Heidelberg
- Visit Hamelin, the Berlin TV Tower, Mödlareuth Open Air Museum, Neuschwanstein castle
- Cruise along the River Rhine
- See the Lorelei Rock, Cologne Cathedral, Bavarian Alps
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
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Currency
The currency in Germany is the Euro (€). While it’s a good idea to bring some money for when you first arrive in Germany, you’ll usually find a better exchange rate in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks in Germany. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
Traditional German cuisine is rich and delicious. Try specialties including a variety of bratwurst with sauerkraut, cold cuts, spätzle and potato dumplings. For dessert you cannot miss the world famous Black Forest Gateau. Beer is a big part of German culture; sample a variety of German offerings including pilsner, Kölsch and sour beers. In Frankfurt, try the local cider (Apfelwein). Wine is also popular throughout Germany, and world-class whites are produced in the Rhine and Mosel regions.
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Packing
We recommend packing layers to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. It’s important to bring comfortable walking shoes and a waterproof jacket with a hood. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
Service and VAT are typically included in the price of food at restaurants in Germany. When leaving a tip, it is appropriate to simply round up your bill or leave up to 10 percent. Rather than leaving your money on the table, be prepared to leave it with your waiter when you pay your bill. If you are expecting change, simply tell them how much you will need back after gratuity.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Hamburg
The Port Of Hamburg Harbour Cruise
Adult Price: €31.00
Despite being located 110 km (68 miles) inland, Hamburg is often referred to as 'Germany's Gateway to the World' due to the sheer number of ships that pass through the city. We'll enjoy a relaxing cruise with refreshments as we see Hamburg's skyline, historic fish market and shipyards while we learn about the city's maritime traditions.
Berlin
Dinner And Berlin By Night
Adult Price: €60.00
Tonight join us as we enjoy great food, wine, beer, music and company before discovering the stunning illuminated landmarks of the German capital.
Berlin's Secret Past Revealed
Adult Price: €31.00
Uncover secrets of Berlin’s past with your Local Specialist on a guided tour of the city. View the Holocaust Memorial, touch a remaining section of the Berlin Wall, see the site of Checkpoint Charlie, and learn more about Berlin’s WWII and Cold War past.
Potsdam Highlights With Dinner
Adult Price: €70.00
At the Western edge of Berlin, we'll stop on the shores of Greater Wannsee, the incongruously beautiful setting for the infamous 1942 conference to plan the 'Final Solution'. Next we'll cross Glienicke Bridge, the so-called "Bridge of Spies" of Cold War spy swaps fame. Reaching Potsdam, we continue to the beautiful Park Sanssouci, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before finishing our afternoon by enjoying a meal in a former hunting lodge on the shores of the lake.
Dresden
Dresden Royal Treasury and Moritzburg Castle
Adult Price: €54.00
See the highlights of the fabulous Green Vault, one of the richest treasure chambers in Europe, with your Local Specialist. Afterwards, driving out of Dresden, we'll stop for refreshments before reaching Moritzburg Castle to discover its opulent baroque interior. The surrounding woodlands were once a favourite hunting area for the Kings of Saxony.
Nuremberg
Franconian Lunch And Rally Grounds Documentation Centre
Adult Price: €47.00
You’ll enjoy a delicious light lunch with a drink at the world's largest bratwurst restaurant. Then we'll make our way to the rally grounds and unfinished Congress Hall of the former Nazi Party. This extraordinary structure has since been transformed and now houses an exhibition detailing the Nazi Party’s fascination with rallies and the causes and consequences of National Socialism. An audio guide is provided.
Munich
The Dachau Memorial Site
Adult Price: €31.00
Germany’s first concentration camp was opened immediately after Hitler’s rise to power, just outside Dachau, near Munich. Maintained as a memorial, this visit will provide an insight into this tragic period in history.
Bavarian Evening
Adult Price: €65.00
Munich is the heart of Bavaria and it's fuelled by some of the best food and drink in the country. See the Hofbräuhaus before you enjoy a selection of traditional Bavarian dishes in a typical local restaurant and absorb the atmosphere of a real Bavarian beer hall.
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
