From its vibrant capital to the fairytale castles of Bavaria, this is the best of Germany
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
- Discover the history and modern-day reclamation of the Berlin Wall
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site city of Potsdam
- Venture into Munich's burgeoning art scene with the guidance of an art expert
- Marvel at the splendour of Neuschwanstein Castle
- Go hiking amid the beauty of Bavaria's Partnach Gorge
What's included
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Private transfers
- Private tours and experiences focused around Germany's history, culture and nature
- Full support from your travel designer and concierge before, during and after your trip
- Our help with restaurant recommendations and reservations
- Expert guides in each destination
At a glance
Showcasing the very best of Germany, from its fascinating history and diverse cultural identities to its beautiful natural landscapes and its unique art scenes; the Highlights of Germany tour is the ultimate introduction to Central Europe’s largest country. Seeing you travel from its capital in the northeast, down towards the Alpine terrain of Bavaria and the country’s south, this journey will span differing heritage, characters and landscapes, all while still managing to remain distinctly German.
The tour begins in Germany’s capital and largest city, the brilliantly vibrant Berlin. During your time here, you’ll discover each and every corner of the city, from its grand landmarks to its hidden secrets. Whether it’s marvelling at the Berlin Wall, visiting the Reichstag or standing before the imposing Brandenburg Gate, you’ll gain an effortless impression of Berlin’s grandeur and history. You’ll also have the chance to pay a visit to Potsdam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which comprises numerous palaces and parks.
Following Berlin, you’ll head to beautiful Dresden, a city of fascinating buildings and art treasures, which is known as the “Florence on the Elbe”. Highlights here include Theater Square, the Zwinger and the Royal Palace, and as you explore the city, you’ll learn all about its history, including its rebirth after experiencing almost total destruction during WWII. Munich follows, with its rich Bavarian culture, impressive old town and burgeoning beer scene. You’ll soak up the very best that the city has to offer, from its delicious Bavarian cuisine and bustling Marienplatz to its beautiful gardens and vibrant markets.
The final four days will be spent immersed in the beauty and rich cultural identity of Bavaria. Experiences here will include encountering some of Europe’s most famous castles, including the breathtaking Neuschwanstein Castle, hiking amid the region’s blissful nature, and trying your hand at some local customs and traditions, such as Bavarian dancing.
Example trip itinerary
Berlin
Transfer
VIP airport assistance
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Berlin
Accommodation in Berlin
Berlin
Overview
With a fantastic address on the square of Bebelplatz, Hotel de Rome is housed within a former Dresdner Bank building, dating back to 1889. Notable architectural features have been carefully retained throughout, with more contemporary touches thrown into the mix.
Upon arrival, the ground-floor reception serves as a striking entrance, with pink neon birdcages hanging from the ceiling and roomy black velvet sofas set alongside cherry-red furnishings. The refined interiors of the rooms and suites are somewhat more neutral, apart from pops of colour and vivid art paintings. High stucco ceilings and marble bathrooms add to the sophisticated atmosphere, and the polished suites encompass balconies, looking out over the square.
Back on the ground floor, guests can dabble in classic Italian and Mediterranean dishes at the on-site restaurant, La Banca – a favoured summertime spot due to its enclosed terrace garden. Next door, the La Banca Bar is ideal for a tipple, as is the rooftop terrace, with a sublime view to match.
Hidden in the former jewellery vault of the building is the impressive De Rome Spa, a particularly appealing drawcard for those who seek serenity within the city. Here, you can soak in the pool, enclosed by mosaic columns, and take advantage of the steam room, sauna and fitness centre.
→ Find out moreThis afternoon half-day tailor-made panoramic city tour of Berlin will be in private car with an English speaking guide. Your tour will lead you through former East and West Berlin, you will understand the city's history, how life was during the Wall's existence, and its developments since the Wall's Fall. You will pass by the most important sights of Berlin, some of the buildings being architectural gems, the Reichstag, Brandenburger Tor, Potsdamer Platz, Hakesche Höfe, Museum Island, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, the Berlin Dom, Gendarmenmarkt, Checkpoint Charlie and many more. You will do a few photo stops en route, amongst others at the East Side Gallery, a former section of the Berlin Wall, where artists after its fall have turned it into the largest open-air gallery in the world with over one hundred paintings.
During this tour, you will visit the Berlin Wall Memorial, situated at the historic site on Bernauer Strasse. You will also have a stop at the East Side Gallery, a 1.3 km section of the old Berlin Wall. Furthermore, you can visit the North Bahnhof, also called the Ghost station, and make a stop at Checkpoint Charlie, the best-known border crossing and famous film setting for spy movies.
You will meet with a professional journalist who will personally guide you through 'her Berlin', discovering the places that inspire her. Along the way, you will witness crazy buildings and unusual views of this city, and most importantly, exchange with a true Berliner, who will take the time to show you some hidden spots in her neighbourhood and share some very special stories.
Enjoy a walking tour through the town of Potsdam. Its Dutch quarter is the largest preserved settlement in the Dutch style outside of the Netherlands, and was built by Dutch craftsmen at the behest of King Frederick William I. Potsdam, one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, surrounds the Brandenburger Strasse pedestrian zone, with its numerous shops and stylish passages that are fashioned from old courtyards.
You will stop at Cecilienhof Palace, where in summer 1945 world history was made. After the end of hostilities in Europe, representatives of the three main allies of World War II met here for top-level discussions on the restructuring of Europe and the future of Germany. Conference participants were the heads of state of the United States, the Soviet Union, and Great Britain – Harry S. Truman, Joseph Stalin, and Winston Churchill (who was replaced by his successor Clement Attlee). The results of the conference officially known as the Three Powers Conference of Berlin were recorded in the Potsdam Agreement and the Potsdam Declaration. The resolutions of the Potsdam Protocol are presented exactly where they were agreed in: in the conference room with its famous round table, the central feature of the Cecilienhof historical site.
Today's highlight will be your visit to the Rococo-style Hohenzollern Sanssouci Palace, located in the Sanssouci Park. Numerous works of art disappeared from the palaces of Potsdam during the Second World War. At least Frederick the Great’s book collection, along with 36 oil paintings, returned to Palace Sanssouci after Germany’s reunification. Almost every monarch left his mark on the park in one way or another. Friedrich the Great built Sanssouci (literally ’without a care’) as a summer retreat – and the palace and spreading park are still magical places today. Friedrich the Great was renowned for his modesty, epitomised in his saying “A crown is merely a hat that lets the rain in”. Without a show of pomp and circumstance, but with considerable personal discipline, he guided the fate of Prussia in the 18th century. His beloved summer palace was his ideal of everyone’s wish of living without a care – Sans Souci. The palace is elegant rather than opulent – after all, it was intended as a retreat to enjoy the country air. In contrast to the baroque splendor of the stately Neues Palais (New Palace) at the other end of the park, Sanssouci is informed by the lighter spirit of the rococo. And with this little palace only comprising twelve rooms, it was clearly designed for intimacy rather than show.
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Dresden
Dresden
Accommodation in Dresden
Dresden
Overview
Dresden’s Old Town, a warren of meandering lanes and pretty courtyards, is the home of this classic hotel, built within a daffodil-yellow hued residence. The interior is inspired by the surrounding Baroque Quarter with a sophisticated style, further enhanced by modern artwork.
Throughout the rooms and suites, the same theme is employed, encompassing a pleasing blend of the past and present. Colour schemes are distinctive, with rich shades and fabrics adding a sense of warmth, alongside plush furnishings and dark wooden features.
One of the country’s top-ranking restaurants can be found at Hotel Buelow Palais, the Michelin-starred Caroussel. Headed by Benjamin Biedlingmaier, this culinary highlight takes a contemporary approach to Mediterranean cuisine in a setting of slick parquet flooring, abstract sculptures and a glass-panelled ceiling. For a more casual dining experience, Bülow’s Bistro serves up light, German dishes, and its connected polished bar offers an enticing alcove to sip on a cocktail, as does the cigar lounge, complete with comfortable leather sofas.
A sojourn from sightseeing can be enjoyed at the spa and fitness centre, a turquoise expanse of natural light, featuring treatment rooms and a well-equipped gym. Make sure that you opt for a session in one of the three saunas, which overlook the rooftops of Dresden, before cooling down in the ice fountain.
→ Find out moreNicknamed the "Florence on the Elbe", and recognised as the capital of Saxony, Dresden will carry you away with a synthesis of the arts,as you discover everything from fascinating buildings and art treasures, to impressive museums, as well as orchestras and choirs of worldwide reputation. Your tour will visit all the major highlights in the historic city centre of Dresden, such as the Theatre Square, The Zwinger, The Royal Palace, The Church of our Lady, The Royal Cathedral, The Royal Mews and The Procession of Princes.
As you explore Dresden, you will hear about the rise of the city into a major cultural centre, before it met its tragic fate during WWII. You will learn about its devastation but also marvel at the results of the loving resurrection that allows visitors today to see the reconstructed historical buildings. Your guide will be happy to provide you with information about further attractions, such as the museums and all other aspects you would like to know about Dresden.
Transfer
Private transfer to Dresden Airport
Transfer
Flight to Munich
Transfer
VIP airport assistance
Transfer
Transfer to your hotel in Munich
Munich
Accommodation in Munich
Munich
Overview
Long renowned among travellers and locals and recognised as one of Munich’s most rewarding central hotels, the Mandarin Oriental promises a luxurious, relaxing and convenient stay at the heart of Munich’s Old Town. The hotel is located in easy reach of both atmospheric Marienplatz and some of Munich’s most inviting shopping streets, while the presentation of the hotel itself is in keeping with the brand’s ‘oriental’ style, further blessed by features such as bespoke furnishings and original artworks.
The prestige of this Mandarin Oriental hotel is evident in all of its 73 guest rooms and suites, with a distinctly boutique character defined by its decor and furnishings, including the likes of attractive cherry-wood features and striking pieces of artistry. They enjoy plenty of space and light too, with many boasting lovely views of the city, while state-of-the-art features, such as Bang & Olufsen televisions, present a modern influence in the layout of the rooms.
Guests at the Mandarin Oriental will benefit from some fantastic dining opportunities, primarily in the aromatic offerings of the Nobu Matsuhisa’s renowned new style Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. During the summer months, The Terrace offers al fresco dining and cocktails, while The Lounge is an ideal place to relax and mingle with other guests. Ory is another appealing bar, with its chic design and delicious cocktails, making it the perfect space for an evening of indulgence. For those hoping to get active during their stay, an on-site fitness centre is the place to go, while the sauna and steam rooms will help to relax you after your workout.
→ Find out moreMunich
Overview
A sublime and striking hotel dating back to the 1840s, offering a combination of its past affluence and the modern influences of the present day, Bayerischer Hof will immediately showcase luxury and splendour to those who walk through its doors. Blessed by a superb location, guests at the hotel will be just steps from Munich’s central square, Marienplatz, as well as the city’s old town and the best of its shopping scene, ensuring it serves as an ideal base for discovering Munich’s highlights.
The hotel’s 19th-century façade is the first thing that will greet guests, with this sense of classical grandeur continuing within its interior in the shape of striking furnishings and architectural styles, while many of the rooms take on a historical theme. Despite this, there’s a significant modern edge also to be found throughout the hotel, courtesy of the vision of a renowned designer. This ensures that there’s a mixture of heritage and contemporary features found across the hotel’s 337 rooms and suites, all enjoying plenty of space, as well as a warm and tranquil vibe, with stylish bathrooms being another bonus.
The hotel is blessed by a range of fantastic facilities, including a collection of superb dining avenues, of which the three Michelin-starred ‘Atelier’ rules the roost. Here, guests can enjoy a choice of a five or seven-course menu, serving up some of Europe’s most exciting and innovative cuisine. Of the six on-site bars, including one found in the hotel’s very own night club, the award-winning ‘Falk’s Bar’ is the most fascinating, found in the famous Hall of Mirrors, which dates back to 1839 and is the only room at the hotel to have survived WWII unscathed. The benefits don’t end there, as guests can also do everything from being pampered in the wonderful spa and taking a soak in the inviting swimming pool, to enjoying a comedy show at the in-house theatre and catching a film at the cinema.
→ Find out moreMunich
Overview
Rebuilt after the Second World War and capturing the grandeur of its former self, Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski is one of Munich’s most historic hotels. Originally opened in the 1850s, today the hotel showcases its classicist-gothic origins, but with a touch of modernity in its interiors and amongst its facilities. Located amid the splendour and affluence of Maximilianstrasse, with its high-end boutique stores, Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski effortlessly rubs shoulders with the luxurious character of this renowned street, all while providing a great base for discovering the rest of Munich.
During a stay at Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski, guests will have a choice of 230 rooms and 67 suites, all offering plenty of living space, as well as touches such as refined decor and attractive pieces of art and furnishings. Despite its classic heritage, guest rooms also benefit from modern touches, with the likes of iPads found in every room, alongside television and Hi-Fi facilities.
Indulgence comes easy courtesy of the hotel’s numerous wining and dining avenues, beginning in the grand and breathtaking hotel lobby, where guests can enjoy everything from a pre-dinner cocktail to an afternoon tea experience. Casual drinks can also be sipped in the Jahreszeiten Bar, while Bavarian-style dining is best experienced at the Schwarzreiter Tagesbar & Restaurant, which looks out across Maximilianstrasse. For another type of indulgence, head to the superb spa for a range of rejuvenating treatment options, while the fitness centre and swimming pool are also ready to make your stay extra rewarding.
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Enjoy your breakfast of a typical sausage 'weißwurst' at the Victualien market and stroll around all the stands with vegetables, cheese and flowers - a real 'Munich' experience. At exactly midday, you can witness the famous carillon. Halfway up the 85m tower of the New Townhall is one of Munich biggest tourist draws, a two-tier glockenspiel (carillon) with 43 bells and 32 mechanical figures. The figures rotate around accompanied by the music of the bells. It lasts for 15 minutes.
The next exciting stop is the castle Nymphenburg. With its unique combination of architecture and garden design, Nymphenburg is one of the best examples in Europe of a synthesis of the arts. Following the birth of the heir to the throne, Max Emanuel, Elector Ferdinand Maria and his consort commissioned the architect Agostino Barelli to build Nymphenburg Palace, which was begun in 1664.
The tour comes to a relaxed finish at the Botanical Garden. Covering an area of 21.20 hectares (52.4 acres), the Munich Botanical Garden in the suburb of Nymphenburg is one of the most important botanical gardens in the world and is visited by over 350,000 visitors a year. It is home to approximately 19,600 species and subspecies.
Today you will take a privately guided art tour through one of Munich's museums. One example of a museum you might visit is Lenbachhouse. Since the 1970s the museum has been presenting the important trends and artists of the international contemporary art world and collecting contemporary art. Starting with the acquisition in 1980 of Joseph Beuys's 'Zeige deine Wunde' (Show Your Wound) (1974–1975), the museum shifted its focus towards collecting representative works and groups of works.
Another possible museum is Alte Pinakothek which focuses on the development of art from the Middle Ages through the Renaissance and the Baroque up to the end of the Rococo period. The collection comprises more than 700 artworks from the glittering epochs of German, Flemish, Netherlandish, French, Italian and Spanish painting.
Transfer
Private transfer from Munich to Bavaria
Bavaria
Accommodation in Bavaria
Bavaria
Overview
Set on the banks of Lake Alp, enclosed by forest and with enchanting views of the Ammergau Alps, this polished resort offers a soothing setting in which to relax. There are 137 rooms and suites to choose from. The hotel’s decor features soft colour schemes and comfortable furnishings and boast either lake or castle vistas. Upgraded rooms and suites encompass balconies and antique elements. Natural materials like wood, leather and linen combine perfectly with the original fittings of the historic buildings and contemporary design.
A complimentary breakfast is available every morning, and guests can choose from three restaurants, with expansive terraces, for the rest of their meals. The other on-site facilities include a refined bar and a café, and guests have access to saunas, a gym and an indoor pool. There’s also a kids’ club.
→ Find out moreNeuschwanstein Castle is a 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen in southwest Bavaria. The palace was commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat and homage to Richard Wagner. Ludwig paid for the palace out of his personal fortune and by means of extensive borrowing, rather than Bavarian public funds. The palace was intended as a personal refuge for the reclusive king, but it was opened to the paying public immediately after his death in 1886. Since then more than 60 million people have visited Neuschwanstein Castle. The palace has appeared prominently in several movies and was the inspiration for Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty Castle and later, similar structures.
In 1873 King Ludwig II of Bavaria acquired the Herreninsel as the location for his Royal Palace of Herrenchiemsee (New Palace). Modelled on Versailles, this palace was built as a "Temple of Fame" for King Louis XIV of France, whom the Bavarian monarch fervently admired. The actual building of this "Bavarian Versailles", which was begun in 1878 from plans by Georg Dollmann, was preceded by a total of 13 planning stages. When Ludwig II died in 1886 the palace was still incomplete, and sections of it were later demolished. The highlights of the large state rooms are the State Staircase, the State Bedroom and the Great Hall of Mirrors. The king's own rooms were in the intimate Small Apartment, designed in the French rococo style.
In 1876 Court Garden Director Carl von Effner completed the plans for a large garden resembling that of Versailles. When the king died, only the sections along the main axis with their famous fountains and waterworks had been completed. Augustinian Monastery (Old Palace) The present monastery building on Herrenchiemsee was constructed in the baroque era. The four wings enclose a large, almost rectangular courtyard with an idyllic rose garden. Herrenchiemsee Palace Park Top priority was given to copying the palace and gardens of Versailles as an epitome of monarchic splendour, in the construction of the dreamworlds of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. Making plans for this project commenced in 1868.
Ludwig II purchased the Chiemsee island of Herrenwörth in 1873 as a construction site, after the originally selected location in the Graswang Valley near Ettal turned out to be too small. Instead of a copy of Versailles, Schloss Linderhof developed therefrom an additional building. It was not the intention of Ludwig II, to copy Versailles in detail. The central rooms in the middle section of the palace – of special significance here the imposing show bedroom and the hall of mirrors – sufficed for his slipping into the role of Roi du Soleil.
Head up on this popular tour out of Aschau im Chiemgau with beautiful views and multiple restaurants to reward your efforts. This area has a number of popular climbing locations in addition to an area frequently used for paragliding. The starting point is always in Aschau. The trail gently rises switching between gravel paths and mountain trails. Between the difficulty levels three to nine, there is something suitable for every hiker/climber. And the good thing is, for those who are not that fit: with the cable car you can comfortably reach the mountain station in 14 minutes.
Today you will discover the beauty of a landscape formed several million years ago through meltwater and debris which hollowed out the rock leaving a narrow gorge – the Partnach Gorge in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The gorge has been declared a natural landmark, but it hasn’t always been as tame and approachable as it is today. Once upon a time, visitors trying to walk through the gorge risked their lives, whilst nowadays there are two safe trails to choose from, which you will experience.
Let the wild waterfalls, rapids and tranquil water basins enchant you as you traverse through this magical scene. You'll start your walk from the Olympic Ski Stadium to the entrance of the Partnach Gorge, which will take around 20 minutes, before heading all the way up the amazing gorge during a walk of around 30 minutes.
During this experience, you'll be taken to a beautiful alpine chalet where you'll begin by enjoying a typical "Kaiserschmarrn", a traditional dish which consists of cut-up and sugared pancake with raisins, or a schnitzel for
the meat lovers. Next you'll create your own Alps cocktail, before enjoying the music of two musicians, exclusively booked for you. In addition to their traditional Bavarian music, you'll also be taught how to dance the "Schuhplattler" - a typical Bavarian dance.
Transfer
Private transfer to Munich Airport
Transfer
VIP airport assistance
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
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Classic Germany
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Showcasing the very best of Germany, from its fascinating history and diverse cultural identities to its beautiful natural landscapes and its unique art scenes; the Highlights of Germany tour is the ultimate introduction to Central Europe’s largest country. Seeing you travel from its capital in the northeast, down towards the Alpine terrain of Bavaria and the country’s south, this journey will span differing heritage, characters and landscapes, all while still managing to remain distinctly German. The tour begins in Germany’s capital and largest city, the brilliantly vibrant Berlin. During your time here, you’ll discover each and every corner of the city, from its grand landmarks to its hidden secrets. Whether it’s marvelling at the Berlin Wall, visiting the Reichstag or standing before the imposing Brandenburg Gate, you’ll gain an effortless impression of Berlin’s grandeur and history. You’ll also have the chance to pay a visit to Potsdam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which comprises numerous palaces and parks. Following Berlin, you’ll head to beautiful Dresden, a city of fascinating buildings and art treasures, which is known as the “Florence on the Elbe”. Highlights here include Theater Square, the Zwinger and the Royal Palace, and as you explore the city, you’ll learn all about its history, including its rebirth after experiencing almost total destruction during WWII. Munich follows, with its rich Bavarian culture, impressive old town and burgeoning beer scene. You’ll soak up the very best that the city has to offer, from its delicious Bavarian cuisine and bustling Marienplatz to its beautiful gardens and vibrant markets. The final four days will be spent immersed in the beauty and rich cultural identity of Bavaria. Experiences here will include encountering some of Europe’s most famous castles, including the breathtaking Neuschwanstein Castle, hiking amid the region’s blissful nature, and trying your hand at some local customs and traditions, such as Bavarian dancing. | Whats included?
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Days 1-4 |
Berlin |
Flights & transfers
VIP airport assistance |
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Private transfer to your hotel in Berlin | |
Accommodation in Berlin
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Hotel de Rome - $$$$$
With a fantastic address on the square of Bebelplatz, Hotel de Rome is housed within a former...
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Panoramic tour of Berlin This afternoon half-day tailor-made panoramic city tour of Berlin will be in private car with an English speaking guide. Your tour will lead you through former East and West Berlin, you will understand the city's history, how life was during the Wall's existence, and its developments since the Wall's Fall. You will pass by the most important sights of Berlin, some of the buildings being architectural gems, the Reichstag, Brandenburger Tor, Potsdamer Platz, Hakesche Höfe, Museum Island, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, the Berlin Dom, Gendarmenmarkt, Checkpoint Charlie and many more. You will do a few photo stops en route, amongst others at the East Side Gallery, a former section of the Berlin Wall, where artists after its fall have turned it into the largest open-air gallery in the world with over one hundred paintings. |
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The Berlin Wall During this tour, you will visit the Berlin Wall Memorial, situated at the historic site on Bernauer Strasse. You will also have a stop at the East Side Gallery, a 1.3 km section of the old Berlin Wall. Furthermore, you can visit the North Bahnhof, also called the Ghost station, and make a stop at Checkpoint Charlie, the best-known border crossing and famous film setting for spy movies. |
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Private tour with a special journalist You will meet with a professional journalist who will personally guide you through 'her Berlin', discovering the places that inspire her. Along the way, you will witness crazy buildings and unusual views of this city, and most importantly, exchange with a true Berliner, who will take the time to show you some hidden spots in her neighbourhood and share some very special stories. |
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Potsdam tour Enjoy a walking tour through the town of Potsdam. Its Dutch quarter is the largest preserved settlement in the Dutch style outside of the Netherlands, and was built by Dutch craftsmen at the behest of King Frederick William I. Potsdam, one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, surrounds the Brandenburger Strasse pedestrian zone, with its numerous shops and stylish passages that are fashioned from old courtyards. You will stop at Cecilienhof Palace, where in summer 1945 world history was made. After the end of hostilities in Europe, representatives of the three main allies of World War II met here for top-level discussions on the restructuring of Europe and the future of Germany. Conference participants were the heads of state of the United States, the Soviet Union, and Great Britain – Harry S. Truman, Joseph Stalin, and Winston Churchill (who was replaced by his successor Clement Attlee). The results of the conference officially known as the Three Powers Conference of Berlin were recorded in the Potsdam Agreement and the Potsdam Declaration. The resolutions of the Potsdam Protocol are presented exactly where they were agreed in: in the conference room with its famous round table, the central feature of the Cecilienhof historical site. Today's highlight will be your visit to the Rococo-style Hohenzollern Sanssouci Palace, located in the Sanssouci Park. Numerous works of art disappeared from the palaces of Potsdam during the Second World War. At least Frederick the Great’s book collection, along with 36 oil paintings, returned to Palace Sanssouci after Germany’s reunification. Almost every monarch left his mark on the park in one way or another. Friedrich the Great built Sanssouci (literally ’without a care’) as a summer retreat – and the palace and spreading park are still magical places today. Friedrich the Great was renowned for his modesty, epitomised in his saying “A crown is merely a hat that lets the rain in”. Without a show of pomp and circumstance, but with considerable personal discipline, he guided the fate of Prussia in the 18th century. His beloved summer palace was his ideal of everyone’s wish of living without a care – Sans Souci. The palace is elegant rather than opulent – after all, it was intended as a retreat to enjoy the country air. In contrast to the baroque splendor of the stately Neues Palais (New Palace) at the other end of the park, Sanssouci is informed by the lighter spirit of the rococo. And with this little palace only comprising twelve rooms, it was clearly designed for intimacy rather than show. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Dresden |
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Days 4-6 |
Dresden |
Accommodation in Dresden
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Hotel Buelow Palais - $$$$$
Dresden’s Old Town, a warren of meandering lanes and pretty courtyards, is the home of this...
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City tour of Dresden Nicknamed the "Florence on the Elbe", and recognised as the capital of Saxony, Dresden will carry you away with a synthesis of the arts,as you discover everything from fascinating buildings and art treasures, to impressive museums, as well as orchestras and choirs of worldwide reputation. Your tour will visit all the major highlights in the historic city centre of Dresden, such as the Theatre Square, The Zwinger, The Royal Palace, The Church of our Lady, The Royal Cathedral, The Royal Mews and The Procession of Princes. As you explore Dresden, you will hear about the rise of the city into a major cultural centre, before it met its tragic fate during WWII. You will learn about its devastation but also marvel at the results of the loving resurrection that allows visitors today to see the reconstructed historical buildings. Your guide will be happy to provide you with information about further attractions, such as the museums and all other aspects you would like to know about Dresden. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Dresden Airport |
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Flight to Munich | |
VIP airport assistance | |
Transfer to your hotel in Munich | |
Days 6-8 |
Munich |
Accommodation in Munich
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Mandarin Oriental Munich - $$$$$
Long renowned among travellers and locals and recognised as one of Munich’s most...
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Bayerischer Hof - $$$$$
A sublime and striking hotel dating back to the 1840s, offering a combination of its past...
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Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski - $$$$$
Rebuilt after the Second World War and capturing the grandeur of its former self, Vier...
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Munich city tour Enjoy your breakfast of a typical sausage 'weißwurst' at the Victualien market and stroll around all the stands with vegetables, cheese and flowers - a real 'Munich' experience. At exactly midday, you can witness the famous carillon. Halfway up the 85m tower of the New Townhall is one of Munich biggest tourist draws, a two-tier glockenspiel (carillon) with 43 bells and 32 mechanical figures. The figures rotate around accompanied by the music of the bells. It lasts for 15 minutes. The next exciting stop is the castle Nymphenburg. With its unique combination of architecture and garden design, Nymphenburg is one of the best examples in Europe of a synthesis of the arts. Following the birth of the heir to the throne, Max Emanuel, Elector Ferdinand Maria and his consort commissioned the architect Agostino Barelli to build Nymphenburg Palace, which was begun in 1664. The tour comes to a relaxed finish at the Botanical Garden. Covering an area of 21.20 hectares (52.4 acres), the Munich Botanical Garden in the suburb of Nymphenburg is one of the most important botanical gardens in the world and is visited by over 350,000 visitors a year. It is home to approximately 19,600 species and subspecies. |
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Private guided art tour through a museum Today you will take a privately guided art tour through one of Munich's museums. One example of a museum you might visit is Lenbachhouse. Since the 1970s the museum has been presenting the important trends and artists of the international contemporary art world and collecting contemporary art. Starting with the acquisition in 1980 of Joseph Beuys's 'Zeige deine Wunde' (Show Your Wound) (1974–1975), the museum shifted its focus towards collecting representative works and groups of works. Another possible museum is Alte Pinakothek which focuses on the development of art from the Middle Ages through the Renaissance and the Baroque up to the end of the Rococo period. The collection comprises more than 700 artworks from the glittering epochs of German, Flemish, Netherlandish, French, Italian and Spanish painting. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer from Munich to Bavaria |
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Days 8-12 |
Bavaria |
Accommodation in Bavaria
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Ameron Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort and Spa - $$$$$
Set on the banks of Lake Alp, enclosed by forest and with enchanting views of the Ammergau...
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Neuschwanstein Castle Neuschwanstein Castle is a 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen in southwest Bavaria. The palace was commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat and homage to Richard Wagner. Ludwig paid for the palace out of his personal fortune and by means of extensive borrowing, rather than Bavarian public funds. The palace was intended as a personal refuge for the reclusive king, but it was opened to the paying public immediately after his death in 1886. Since then more than 60 million people have visited Neuschwanstein Castle. The palace has appeared prominently in several movies and was the inspiration for Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty Castle and later, similar structures. |
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Herrenchiemsee In 1873 King Ludwig II of Bavaria acquired the Herreninsel as the location for his Royal Palace of Herrenchiemsee (New Palace). Modelled on Versailles, this palace was built as a "Temple of Fame" for King Louis XIV of France, whom the Bavarian monarch fervently admired. The actual building of this "Bavarian Versailles", which was begun in 1878 from plans by Georg Dollmann, was preceded by a total of 13 planning stages. When Ludwig II died in 1886 the palace was still incomplete, and sections of it were later demolished. The highlights of the large state rooms are the State Staircase, the State Bedroom and the Great Hall of Mirrors. The king's own rooms were in the intimate Small Apartment, designed in the French rococo style. In 1876 Court Garden Director Carl von Effner completed the plans for a large garden resembling that of Versailles. When the king died, only the sections along the main axis with their famous fountains and waterworks had been completed. Augustinian Monastery (Old Palace) The present monastery building on Herrenchiemsee was constructed in the baroque era. The four wings enclose a large, almost rectangular courtyard with an idyllic rose garden. Herrenchiemsee Palace Park Top priority was given to copying the palace and gardens of Versailles as an epitome of monarchic splendour, in the construction of the dreamworlds of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. Making plans for this project commenced in 1868. Ludwig II purchased the Chiemsee island of Herrenwörth in 1873 as a construction site, after the originally selected location in the Graswang Valley near Ettal turned out to be too small. Instead of a copy of Versailles, Schloss Linderhof developed therefrom an additional building. It was not the intention of Ludwig II, to copy Versailles in detail. The central rooms in the middle section of the palace – of special significance here the imposing show bedroom and the hall of mirrors – sufficed for his slipping into the role of Roi du Soleil. |
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Hiking on Kampenwand Head up on this popular tour out of Aschau im Chiemgau with beautiful views and multiple restaurants to reward your efforts. This area has a number of popular climbing locations in addition to an area frequently used for paragliding. The starting point is always in Aschau. The trail gently rises switching between gravel paths and mountain trails. Between the difficulty levels three to nine, there is something suitable for every hiker/climber. And the good thing is, for those who are not that fit: with the cable car you can comfortably reach the mountain station in 14 minutes. |
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Hiking tour Partnach Gorge Today you will discover the beauty of a landscape formed several million years ago through meltwater and debris which hollowed out the rock leaving a narrow gorge – the Partnach Gorge in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The gorge has been declared a natural landmark, but it hasn’t always been as tame and approachable as it is today. Once upon a time, visitors trying to walk through the gorge risked their lives, whilst nowadays there are two safe trails to choose from, which you will experience. Let the wild waterfalls, rapids and tranquil water basins enchant you as you traverse through this magical scene. You'll start your walk from the Olympic Ski Stadium to the entrance of the Partnach Gorge, which will take around 20 minutes, before heading all the way up the amazing gorge during a walk of around 30 minutes. |
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Private Bavarian folk dance lesson During this experience, you'll be taken to a beautiful alpine chalet where you'll begin by enjoying a typical "Kaiserschmarrn", a traditional dish which consists of cut-up and sugared pancake with raisins, or a schnitzel for |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Munich Airport |
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VIP airport assistance |