Day 1: Arrival in Berlin & A Journey Through History

Welcome to Berlin, a city where history and modernity collide in the most fascinating way. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and settle in before setting out to explore this dynamic capital. With its storied past, thriving cultural scene, and ever-evolving cityscape, Berlin offers a compelling mix of old and new.

Your journey begins with a Battle of Berlin Tour, an in-depth exploration of the final days of World War II. Accompanied by an expert guide, visit key historical sites that tell the story of Berlin’s wartime past. Pay respects at the Soviet War Memorial, a tribute to the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Berlin, before continuing to The Reichstag, Germany’s iconic parliament building, steeped in political and historical significance. Explore the Russian-German War Museum, which provides a deeper understanding of the war’s impact, and visit the towering Flak Tower, one of the city’s formidable air defense structures. Walk through Prenzlauer Berg, a district once marked by war and division, now transformed into a lively cultural hub, before concluding at the site of Hitler’s Bunker, where the Nazi regime met its end. The tour finishes back at the Reichstag, a powerful symbol of Germany’s reunification and resilience.

Following a morning of discovery, enjoy lunch at Restaurant Käfer, perched atop the Bundestag. Savor exquisite German cuisine while taking in breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the scenic Tiergarten, Berlin’s sprawling urban park, and pause for a photo at the Brandenburg Gate, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Continue to the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, a solemn and thought-provoking tribute to the victims of the Holocaust. The vast field of concrete stelae creates a haunting yet powerful space for reflection.

Next, follow the historic Friedrichstraße to Checkpoint Charlie, the legendary Cold War border crossing between East and West Berlin. Step back in time as you visit the Mauermuseum, where exhibits recount daring escape attempts and the lives of those affected by the Berlin Wall. This pivotal site serves as a reminder of the city’s once-divided past and the triumph of reunification.

As the day winds down, enjoy dinner in the elegant Gendarmenmarkt area, one of Berlin’s most beautiful squares. Choose from an array of fine restaurants, such as Augustiner am Gendarmenmarkt, known for its hearty Bavarian fare, or AIGNER am Gendarmenmarkt, offering refined Austrian-German cuisine. Dine against the stunning backdrop of the French Cathedral and German Cathedral, soaking in the charm of Berlin by night.

After an enriching day of exploration, return to your hotel for a well-earned rest.

Overnight: Berlin

 

Day 2: Exploring Berlin’s Hidden and Historic Layers

Wake up in Berlin and start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before diving into the city’s hidden underground world. Today’s itinerary takes you from Berlin’s subterranean past to its Cold War history, offering a deeper understanding of the city’s fascinating and often haunting legacy.

Your morning begins with a visit to the Berlin Underworlds Museum, where you’ll explore the city from below. This guided tour takes you through Berlin’s underground tunnels and bunkers, including remnants of World War II and the Cold War. Discover the Führerbunker, the last refuge of Adolf Hitler, and learn about the extensive network of air-raid shelters and escape tunnels that once played a crucial role in Berlin’s wartime and post-war survival. Walking through these dimly lit passageways offers a chilling yet fascinating glimpse into the past.

After emerging from the depths of history, head to Alexanderplatz, home to the towering Berlin TV Tower. Enjoy a lunch with a view at the revolving restaurant inside the tower, offering stunning 360-degree panoramas of the city. From this vantage point, take in the remarkable contrast of Berlin’s modern skyline against its historic landmarks.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a visit to the Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial, one of the most significant sites of political persecution in East Germany. Once a top-secret prison operated by the Stasi (East German Secret Police), this facility detained thousands of political prisoners until the fall of the Berlin Wall. The guided tour, often led by former inmates, offers firsthand accounts of the psychological and physical torment endured within these walls. Walking through the windowless cells, interrogation rooms, and barbed-wire perimeters is a sobering yet essential experience, shedding light on life under the GDR regime.

For those looking to explore more of Berlin’s layered history, the late afternoon offers optional sightseeing. Visit the New Synagogue Berlin – Centrum Judaicum, a beautifully restored landmark representing Berlin’s rich Jewish heritage. Alternatively, delve into Cold War history at the Airlift Memorial and Tempelhof Airport, where the legendary Berlin Airlift of 1948-49 kept West Berlin alive during the Soviet blockade. Other options include a visit to the Olympic Stadium, built for the 1936 Games and a striking example of Nazi-era architecture, or the German Resistance Memorial Center, dedicated to those who opposed the Nazi regime.

As evening falls, savor an elegant dinner at Fischers Fritz, one of Berlin’s most acclaimed restaurants, known for its exquisite seafood and refined ambiance. Reflect on the day’s powerful experiences over a beautifully prepared meal before returning to your hotel for a restful night.

Overnight: Berlin

 

Day 3: From Berlin to Leipzig & Dresden – A Journey Through History

After breakfast at your hotel, check out and begin your day with a deeply sobering visit to the House of the Wannsee Conference. It was here, in this lakeside villa, that senior Nazi officials convened in January 1942 to plan the so-called “Final Solution,” the systematic genocide of Europe’s Jewish population. As you walk through the preserved rooms and study the original documents, gain insight into the chilling bureaucratic efficiency with which these atrocities were orchestrated. The museum serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of unchecked power and ideology.

Following this thought-provoking visit, depart Berlin and travel south to Leipzig, a city with a rich musical heritage and a pivotal role in Germany’s path to reunification. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours through scenic countryside before arriving in this vibrant cultural hub.

Upon arrival, enjoy a traditional lunch at Auerbachs Keller, one of Germany’s most historic restaurants. Dating back to the 16th century, this iconic tavern was famously featured in Goethe’s Faust and remains a beloved landmark in Leipzig. Savor classic Saxon cuisine in a setting steeped in literary and historical significance.

After lunch, take a short walk to the STASI Museum “Runde Ecke”, housed in the former headquarters of the East German Secret Police in Leipzig. This preserved space offers an unfiltered look into the surveillance state of the GDR, where citizens were monitored, interrogated, and controlled. Wander through rooms that still retain their original linoleum floors, barred windows, and outdated office equipment, providing a hauntingly authentic glimpse into life under Communist rule. Exhibits detail the methods of espionage, coercion, and propaganda used by the Stasi, making this an eye-opening visit.

Next, visit the Monument to the Battle of the Nations (Völkerschlachtdenkmal), an awe-inspiring structure commemorating the 1813 Battle of Leipzig, in which European allies defeated Napoleon’s army. Standing at 91 meters (299 feet) tall, it is Germany’s largest war memorial. Inside, explore the crypt and Hall of Fame, adorned with colossal stone statues symbolizing the strength and unity of the victorious coalition. Climb to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view of Leipzig, a city that has witnessed both great battles and peaceful revolutions.

From Leipzig, continue your journey to Dresden, approximately 2 hours away. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to unwind before dinner.

This evening, enjoy an elegant dining experience at the Taschenbergpalais Kempinski, a stunning hotel restaurant set within a beautifully restored baroque palace. Indulge in gourmet cuisine as you take in the sophisticated ambiance, reflecting on the remarkable historical journey from Berlin to Leipzig and now to the heart of Saxony.

Overnight: Dresden

 

Day 4: Dresden to Colditz & Erfurt – A Journey Through War and Resilience

Wake up in the baroque splendor of Dresden, a city that has risen from the ashes of war to reclaim its place as a cultural treasure. After breakfast and check-out, begin your day with a visit to the Bundeswehr Military History Museum, one of Germany’s most comprehensive military museums. Housed in a striking modern structure designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, the museum presents an unflinching exploration of Germany’s military past, from early warfare to the present day. Among its many exhibits, you’ll find the Brandtaucher, the first German submarine, built in 1850, as well as thought-provoking displays on the impact of war on society.

Next, visit the Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche), Dresden’s most powerful symbol of destruction and rebirth. Originally completed in 1743, this masterpiece of Protestant architecture collapsed in February 1945, two days after the devastating Allied bombing raids on Dresden. For decades, its ruins stood as a solemn war memorial until, in a remarkable feat of reconstruction, the church was meticulously rebuilt using as many original stones as possible. Today, it stands once again as a beacon of peace and reconciliation. Step inside to admire the breathtaking dome frescoes, restored organ, and beautifully reconstructed altar, all testaments to Dresden’s resilience.

For lunch, enjoy traditional Saxon cuisine with panoramic views of the Elbe Valley at Luisenhof Dresden, a historic restaurant perched high above the city. From here, soak in the breathtaking scenery before continuing your journey into the heart of Saxony.

After lunch, travel 1.5 hours to Colditz Castle, one of the most famous prisoner-of-war camps of World War II. Located atop a rocky hill, Oflag IV-C (as it was officially known) housed high-ranking Allied officers, including British, French, Dutch, and Polish prisoners. Known for its ingenious escape attempts, Colditz became legendary for the elaborate tunnels, disguises, and daring breakouts orchestrated by its prisoners. A guided tour through the castle’s original escape tunnels, secret passageways, and reconstructed prisoner quarters brings to life the incredible stories of courage and resilience that unfolded within its walls.

From Colditz, continue your journey 2.5 hours west to Erfurt, the capital of Thuringia. This beautifully preserved medieval city boasts one of Germany’s most enchanting old towns, filled with half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and Gothic cathedrals. Check in to your hotel before setting out to explore one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—the Merchants’ Bridge (Krämerbrücke). Spanning the Gera River, this remarkable medieval bridge is lined with houses along its entire length, making it the longest of its kind in Europe. Strolling across the bridge feels like stepping back in time, with its charming artisan shops and historic facades.

This evening, immerse yourself in the medieval ambiance of Wirtshaus Christoffel, a tavern-style restaurant where authentic period cuisine is served by staff in traditional medieval attire. Dine by candlelight on hearty regional dishes, accompanied by live minstrel music and storytelling, offering a unique and entertaining end to your day.

Overnight: Erfurt

 

Day 5: The History & Culture of Thuringia – Erfurt, Buchenwald & Weimar

Start your morning in Erfurt with breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a powerful and emotional journey through one of Germany’s darkest chapters. A short 30-minute drive brings you to the Buchenwald Concentration Camp Memorial, located on the Ettersberg Hill just outside Weimar.

Established by the SS in 1937, Buchenwald became one of the largest Nazi concentration camps, imprisoning more than 250,000 people over its years of operation. Political dissidents, Jews, Roma, LGBTQ+ individuals, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and many others deemed “undesirable” by the Nazi regime were detained, forced into brutal labor, and subjected to unimaginable atrocities. Walking through the preserved barbed-wire fences, watchtowers, and barracks, visitors gain a sobering perspective on the horrors of the Holocaust. The memorial’s exhibits offer personal stories, historical records, and testimonies that ensure the world never forgets.

After this moving experience, continue your journey 15 minutes to Weimar, a city celebrated as Germany’s cultural and intellectual heart. The birthplace of Weimar Classicism, this charming city was home to Goethe, Schiller, Liszt, and Bach, as well as the Bauhaus movement that revolutionized modern architecture and design.

Enjoy lunch at the Historic Elephantenkeller, located in the legendary Hotel Elephant. This elegant restaurant, once a gathering place for great thinkers, artists, and even political figures, serves exquisite Thuringian cuisine in a sophisticated yet historic setting.

In the afternoon, embark on a Third Reich-themed guided tour of Weimar, revealing the city’s complex and sometimes contradictory history. While Weimar was a center for art and literature, it also played a role in Germany’s political transformation, with the city lending its name to the ill-fated Weimar Republic and serving as a site of Nazi influence. Visit key locations that reflect this contrast, from grand classical landmarks to sites that echo the ideological struggles of the 20th century.

As the day draws to a close, return to Erfurt, where you’ll enjoy a Thuringian-style dinner by the river at Restaurant Übersee. Overlooking the historic Merchant’s Bridge, this lively yet intimate restaurant offers a delightful mix of regional specialties and international flavors, all in a picturesque riverside setting.

Overnight: Erfurt

 

Day 6: From Erfurt to Bamberg & Nuremberg – A Journey Through History and Culture

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting out to explore one of Erfurt’s most striking landmarks, St. Mary’s Cathedral (Dom St. Marien). Towering over the Domplatz, this magnificent Gothic cathedral dates back to the time of Bishop Boniface in 742 and has been a place of worship for over a thousand years. Step inside to admire its stunning stained-glass windows, intricate vaulted ceilings, and the world-famous “Gloriosa”, the largest medieval free-swinging bell in the world.

After your visit, depart Erfurt and travel approximately two hours to the enchanting UNESCO-listed city of Bamberg. Nestled in Upper Franconia, Bamberg is often called “Franconian Rome” due to its seven hills, each crowned with a church. This beautifully preserved city was a center of influence from the 10th century onward, shaping architecture across Germany and Hungary. Stroll through the medieval Old Town, where highlights include Cathedral Hill, home to the Imperial Cathedral, the Baroque New Residence, and the historic Old Court, as well as the St. Michael Monastery, which offers breathtaking views over the city.

For lunch, enjoy fine Italian cuisine at Salino, a charming restaurant in the heart of Bamberg. Indulge in homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and an excellent selection of wines, all served in a warm and inviting setting.

In the afternoon, delve into Bamberg’s Jewish heritage with a guided tour titled “Jewish Life in the Millennium City.” Learn about the city’s long and complex Jewish history, from its first Jewish community in the 11th century to the devastating events of the 20th century, and the modern revival of Jewish culture in Bamberg today. Visit significant sites that tell the story of resilience, culture, and remembrance.

After the tour, continue one hour south to Nuremberg, a city where medieval charm and historical significance intertwine. Check in to your hotel and take a moment to appreciate the city’s skyline, dominated by the imposing Kaiserburg Castle. Known for its reconstructed medieval Old Town, thick fortress walls, and Gothic churches, Nuremberg is also deeply connected to Germany’s imperial past and its role in the Nazi era.

This evening, experience authentic Bavarian hospitality at Barfüßer, a lively restaurant and brewery. Savor traditional Franconian dishes, including the famous Nuremberg bratwurst, crispy pork knuckle, and freshly brewed beer, all served in a rustic, welcoming atmosphere.

Overnight: Nuremberg

 

Day 7: Nuremberg to Munich – A Reflection on History

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before delving into Nuremberg’s profound historical legacy with a visit to the Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This vast complex, once used for mass propaganda events, now houses the Documentation Center, offering a compelling exhibition on the rise and fall of the Nazi regime. Walking through the remains of the Zeppelin Field and the Great Road, designed for grand military parades, provides a chilling yet essential understanding of the power and scale of Nazi propaganda.

After the visit, enjoy lunch at Heilig-Geist-Spital, one of Nuremberg’s most historic restaurants. Nestled along the Pegnitz River, this former medieval hospital is now a charming restaurant serving classic Franconian dishes, such as Nuremberg sausages, Schäufele (roast pork shoulder), and local wines.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration of Nuremberg’s role in shaping modern justice with a visit to the Memorium Nuremberg Trials at the Palace of Justice. It was here, in Courtroom 600, that Nazi leaders were held accountable for their war crimes in the groundbreaking trials of 1945-46. Through original artifacts, audio recordings, and detailed exhibits, the memorial provides a powerful insight into how these trials set the precedent for international law and human rights.

Following this impactful visit, depart Nuremberg for Munich, a two-hour drive through Bavaria’s picturesque countryside. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax before dinner.

Tonight, enjoy a refined Bavarian dining experience at Spatenhaus an der Oper, an elegant restaurant located opposite the Bavarian State Opera. Renowned for its regional specialties and exceptional beer selection, this restaurant offers a warm, traditional atmosphere—an ideal setting to reflect on the day’s experiences while savoring classic Munich cuisine.

Overnight: Munich

 

Day 8: Munich & Dachau – A Journey Through History and Remembrance

Wake up in Munich, Bavaria’s vibrant capital, and enjoy breakfast at your hotel before diving into a day of historical exploration. Munich is a city of contrasts—renowned for its fairy-tale palaces, world-class museums, and lively beer gardens, yet also home to some of the darkest chapters of 20th-century history. Today’s itinerary will take you through both sides of this fascinating city, from its architectural splendor to its complex past.

Your morning begins with a visit to the Munich Documentation Centre for the History of National Socialism, located on the site of the former “Brown House”, which once served as the Nazi Party headquarters. This modern museum provides a comprehensive look at the rise of the Nazi movement, tracing its origins in Munich and examining the devastating consequences of its ideology. Thought-provoking exhibits, original documents, and interactive displays offer a deep insight into how Nazism took hold in Germany and its impact on the world.

Next, visit the White Rose Memorial, dedicated to the student resistance group that bravely opposed the Nazi regime. Located in front of Ludwig Maximilians University, this memorial honors Sophie Scholl, her brother Hans, and other members who distributed anti-Nazi leaflets before being arrested and executed in 1943. The site includes a small exhibition detailing their courageous acts and the price they paid for standing up against tyranny.

Continue your exploration of Munich’s complex past with a guided tour titled “Hitler’s Munich – The Third Reich.” This tour takes you through the city’s key Nazi-era locations, including the Hofbräuhaus, where Hitler held his first mass meetings, the Feldherrnhalle, site of the failed Beer Hall Putsch, and Königsplatz, once a backdrop for Nazi rallies. The tour also includes a stop at the Hofgarten, where you’ll learn about the White Rose resistance movement and the brave individuals who risked everything to fight against dictatorship.

After a morning of reflection, enjoy a hearty Bavarian lunch at Augustiner Restaurant, one of Munich’s most beloved beer halls. Indulge in traditional specialties such as Weißwurst (white sausage), Schweinshaxe (crispy pork knuckle), and freshly brewed Augustiner beer, all served in a warm, traditional setting.

In the afternoon, travel 45 minutes northwest to Dachau, site of Germany’s first concentration camp. Established in March 1933, Dachau became the model for all subsequent Nazi camps. The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is a place of somber remembrance, preserving the original barracks, crematorium, and the “Jourhaus” gate, where prisoners passed under the infamous inscription “Arbeit macht frei” (“Work sets you free”). Walking through the memorial, you’ll encounter exhibitions that document the horrors experienced by prisoners, as well as personal testimonies that serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of historical memory.

After this deeply moving visit, return to Munich and conclude your day with dinner at Brenner Grill, an upscale restaurant on Maximilianstraße, known for its elegant ambiance and delicious grilled specialties. Enjoy a refined meal as you reflect on the day’s experiences, taking in the contrast between Munich’s dark past and its vibrant present.

Overnight: Munich

 

Day 9: Berchtesgaden & The Bavarian Alps – A Grand Finale

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting off for a scenic journey to Berchtesgaden, one of Bavaria’s most breathtaking alpine regions. Located 2.5 hours from Munich, this picturesque town is surrounded by majestic mountain peaks and crystal-clear lakes, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Upon arrival, embark on a boat trip across Lake Königssee, an emerald-green glacial lake renowned for its mirror-like reflections and dramatic fjord-like cliffs. As you glide across the water, experience the famous Königssee echo, demonstrated by boatmen playing traditional trumpets or flugelhorns. Arrive at St. Bartholomä Pilgrimage Chapel, a 16th-century church with its distinctive red onion domes, set against the stunning backdrop of the Watzmann mountain range.

Enjoy lunch at the Historic St. Bartholomä Inn, a charming lakeside restaurant serving Bavarian specialties such as fresh trout from the lake, hearty dumplings, and locally brewed beer. Savor your meal while taking in the serene alpine views before returning by boat to Berchtesgaden.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a guided tour of the Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus), an infamous mountaintop retreat built as a 50th birthday gift for Adolf Hitler. Perched at 1,834 meters (6,017 feet) above sea level, the site offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bavarian and Austrian Alps. While its history is deeply tied to the Nazi era, today it stands as a reminder of the past, offering historical insight alongside stunning alpine scenery.

After an awe-inspiring day in the Alps, return to Munich for a memorable farewell dinner at the world-famous Hofbräuhaus Brewery. Established in 1589 by Duke Wilhelm V of Bavaria, this legendary beer hall is the epitome of Bavarian hospitality. Raise a stein of Hofbräu beer, enjoy traditional Bavarian music, and feast on classic dishes such as pretzels, schnitzel, and roasted pork as you celebrate the end of your incredible journey through Germany’s history, culture, and landscapes.

Overnight: Munich

 

Day 10: Farewell to Germany

Enjoy one last Bavarian breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Take a final stroll through the charming streets of Munich, soaking in the city’s vibrant energy, historic architecture, and café culture.

At the designated time, transfer to the airport for your departure flight back to the USA. As you bid farewell to Germany, reflect on the incredible journey through its rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural treasures—from the historic streets of Berlin to the alpine beauty of Berchtesgaden, and everything in between.

Safe travels and Auf Wiedersehen!