Germany·16 - 23 July 2025

The Heart of Germany: from Berlin to Bavaria

Join us as we journey from trendy Berlin to enchanting castles in the countryside, finishing in sophisticated Munich.

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Overview

Germany’s contrasts will surprise and delight you. The beauty of the Bavarian Alps, with stunning palaces, offers a serene escape into a fairytale world. In contrast, Berlin pulses with life, wearing its history proudly while pushing creative boundaries. David Bowie once declared, 'Berlin, the greatest cultural extravaganza that one could imagine.’ In Berlin, we'll explore the city’s complex history, from Prussian grandeur to Cold War shadows. We'll walk through the Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of unity, and visit Frederick the Great’s castle in Potsdam. Our journey continues at the Boros Collection, where modern art flourishes in a WWII bunker, reflecting Berlin's resilience. While navigating this vibrant city, we'll enjoy culinary delights like döner kebab and currywurst. In Munich, we’ll embrace tradition and charm. We'll raise our steins in a beer cellar, toasting to Bavarian hospitality. The countryside offers picturesque landscapes and storybook villages. Traveling the Romantic Road, we'll discover colorful towns like Dinkelsbühl and Nördlingen, each uniquely beautiful. Extraordinary castles, like Neuschwanstein, transport us into a fantasy world against the breathtaking Alpine backdrop. Throughout this journey, led by a German American, we'll experience the contrasts defining Germany, from its storied past to its vibrant present, and glimpse its promising future.

Highlights

Enjoy a private tour in an East German car

Enjoy a private tour in an East German car

Visit the Boros Collection and discover  modern art in a WWII bunker

Visit the Boros Collection and discover modern art in a WWII bunker

Explore the Sanssouci Palace and Gardens in Potsdam

Explore the Sanssouci Palace and Gardens in Potsdam

Visit the iconic Neuschwanstein castle in the foothills of the Alps

Visit the iconic Neuschwanstein castle in the foothills of the Alps

Experience a steamer cruise in Potsdam

Experience a steamer cruise in Potsdam

Visit Berlin’s iconic landmarks and explore Munich's historic center

Visit Berlin’s iconic landmarks and explore Munich's historic center

Itinerary

Here's a day-by-day itinerary of the trip. Press the "<" and ">" buttons below to scroll through each day.

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Welcome to Berlin

Day 1: Wednesday, July 16th, 2025

Upon arrival in Berlin, grab a taxi at the airport and head to our stylish boutique accommodation, the Telegraphenamt Hotel. This elegant hotel is a beautifully restored historic building in the heart of the city and provides an ideal base for our German adventure.

Later this afternoon, we will gather in the hotel lobby for a welcome drink. This is a great opportunity to get to know each other before embarking on our exciting journey.

Following our meet-and-greet, we’ll hop into a traditional East German car for a unique city tour. As we drive through Berlin, you’ll get an intriguing first glimpse of this dynamic city’s rich history and vibrant present.

This evening, we’ll dine at the iconic Lutter & Wegner, a traditional German restaurant that has delighted guests since 1811. Savor the flavors of authentic German cuisine as we toast to the start of our adventure.

Included

Dinner

Not Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Airport transfer

DAY2

Berlin

Day 2: Thursday, July 17th, 2025

After a hearty hotel breakfast, we’ll explore Berlin’s historic sites with an expert guide. We’ll visit the iconic Brandenburg Gate, the impressive Reichstag building, Checkpoint Charlie, and the poignant Holocaust Memorial.

For lunch, we’ll indulge in Berlin’s best wiener schnitzel at a renowned local eatery. Afterward, we’ll visit the Boros Collection, a fascinating modern art collection housed in a World War II bunker.

Our afternoon will continue with a leisurely stroll around the Hackescher Hof, a vibrant area filled with galleries, shops, and cafes. This evening, we’ll enjoy a delightful dinner at our hotel’s stylish restaurant, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.

Included

All meals

Day3Potsdam

Potsdam & Berlin

Day 3: Friday, July 18th, 2025

Today, we journey to Potsdam, the royal retreat of Prussian kings that's only a short drive from Berlin. We’ll explore the magnificent Sanssouci Palace and its enchanting gardens, a true testament to Prussian grandeur.

After a delicious lunch in Potsdam’s charming Dutch district, we’ll take a steamer cruise through the lake district. Marvel at the beautiful Italian villas and the historic Cecilienhof, the site of the famous post-World War II conference in 1945.

We’ll return to Berlin this evening, and after an eventful day, you'll be free to enjoy dinner on your own. 

Included

Breakfast & Lunch

Not Included

Dinner

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Berlin

Day 4: Saturday, July 19th, 2025

After breakfast, immerse yourself in Berlin’s Cold War history with a visit to the DDR Museum: Berlin's Interactive Museum. This interactive museum transports you back to the era of a divided Germany, offering a fascinating glimpse into daily life behind the Iron Curtain.

For lunch, we’ll enjoy casual yet delicious fare at one of Berlin’s best imbisses, sampling döner kebab and currywurst. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Berlin Wall and the Palace of Tears, sites telling poignant stories of separation and hope.

Dinner is at the celebrated Café Frieda in Prenzlauer Berg, where we’ll savor contemporary German cuisine in a lively neighborhood setting.

Included

All meals

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Munich

Day 5: Sunday, July 20th, 2025

This morning, we depart Berlin and take a scenic train ride to Munich, enjoying a leisurely lunch en route. On arrival, we’ll check into the lovely and historic 4-star Eden Hotel Wolff in Munich’s historic center. You'll fall in love with the Alpine Style rooms.

After settling in, we’ll explore Munich’s rich history with a guided tour of the city’s landmarks. This evening, we’ll feast on traditional Bavarian dishes at the iconic Hofbräuhaus, raising our steins to a day well spent.

Included

All meals

Train fare

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Harburg & Dinkelsbühl

Day 6: Monday, July 21st, 2025

Today, we start our journey along the Romantic Road, visiting some of Bavaria’s most picturesque villages. Our first stop is Harburg Castle, one of Germany’s oldest fortifications, followed by the brightly colored village of Dinkelsbühl, famed for its role in "The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm."

We’ll enjoy a delightful lunch in a traditional beer garden before continuing to the walled town of Nördlingen. After returning to Munich, you’ll have the evening free to explore or relax at your leisure.

Included

Breakfast & Lunch

Not Included

Dinner

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Bavarian Alps

Day 7: Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025

After breakfast at the hotel, our day begins with a visit to the enchanting Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration behind Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, this fairytale castle offers breathtaking views and stunning architecture.

After lunch at a nearby inn, we’ll visit the opulent Linderhof Palace, a small but lavish retreat surrounded by beautiful woodlands. This evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner at the Michelin-starred restaurant, Mural, celebrating our journey through Germany’s past, present, and future.

Included

All meals

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Departure Day

Day 8: Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025

After a delightful breakfast, we’ll bid farewell to our new friends and the beautiful country of Germany. As you reflect on our adventure, we hope you leave with wonderful memories and a newfound appreciation for Germany’s rich history and vibrant culture! 

Whether you're taking the train back to Berlin or flying out of Munich, we’ll provide transportation to either the train station or the airport.

Included

Breakfast

Airport/Train Station Transfer

You'll Be Staying Here

Telegraphenamt

Telegraphenamt

A beautifully restored historic building located in the heart of Berlin. The Telegraphenamt boutique hotel is the perfect base for exploring the city's rich history and vibrant culture.


Eden Hotel Wolff

Eden Hotel Wolff

This 4-star hotel has operated since 1890 and is directly across from the train station. There is a lovely wellness spa where you can relax and rejuvenate. 

Hosts

Katrin Hodapp

Katrin Hodapp

A 25-year resident in her adopted Paris. Katrin has turned from a career as an international literary agent where she was responsible for number 1 bestselling authors in France to sharing her passion for literature, travel, and art. She speaks five languages fluently and is an active translator in the film industry when not guiding visitors in France, Holland, Germany, and Morocco. She's always keen to find the perfect view, the ideal Bistro, and hidden gem to make the trips she leads seamless and memorable. 

Price

Private Room

Private Room

Everyone gets their own fabulous room!

FROM$8,925

Pay in 2 monthly installments of $4,462.50
Base-Trip Shared Room

Base-Trip Shared Room

Share a room with a friend or family member

FROM$7,995

Pay in 2 monthly installments of $4,462.50

Add Ons

Arrive one day in Berlin

Arrive one day in Berlin

Includes one night and breakfast at the Hotel Telegraphenamt Hotel

PRICE$550.00

ADD THIS

History, culture, and breathtaking views

Germany - Berlin and Castles

Wander through Berlin's iconic sites, from the historic Brandenburg Gate to the bustling Reichstag, and feel the city's creative pulse in its vibrant neighborhoods. In Munich, soak up the rich Bavarian traditions as you explore the city's historic center and enjoy hearty local cuisine. Travel along the Romantic Road, visiting charming villages and stunning castles like Neuschwanstein, perched majestically in the Alps.

Germany - Berlin and Castles

What's Included

What's Included

All meals (except where indicated), including beer & wine with dinner

All transportation during the trip (except where indicated)

Accommodations at unique, 4-star or better hotels

Farewell dinner at Michelin-starred restaurant Mural

Steamer cruise in Potsdam’s lake district

Visit to the Boros Collection of modern art

Tour of the Berlin Wall and Palace of Tears

Guided tour of Munich’s historic center

Expert guides and trip leaders

Train journey from Berlin to Munich

Guided tours of Berlin’s historic sites

Train journey from Berlin to Munich

Day tour of the Romantic Road

Visit to Neuschwanstein Castle

Stroll around Hackescher Hof

A small group experience

Visit to the DDR Museum

Visit to Linderhof Palace

Day trip to Potsdam

Welcome drink

Additional wine, beer, and/or spirits beyond what’s offered at meals

Travel and medical insurance (required)

Airport transfers in Berlin and Munich

Round-trip airfare to Germany

Any spa treatment desired

All personal souvenirs

FAQs

You should fly into Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), which serves the city of Berlin. This airport will be your starting point for the tour. 

On departure, you can either take the train back to Berlin or fly home directly from Munich—please note that these options are not included in the trip and should be arranged individually.

Plan to arrive in Berlin by midday or early afternoon on Day One (July 16th) of the itinerary. This will give you ample time to check into the Telegraphenamt Hotel. Consider arriving a day early so you have time to relax and adjust to the local time zone.

If you do decide to arrive early, please let us know, and we will book your room for you and ensure that you are kept in the same room as you will be in when the trip starts.

We will have a zoom call about 10 weeks before the trip starts to discuss all that information and give you a packing list. Here is a great website that we love that will help you with packing and travel trips.

In July, Germany enjoys warm and pleasant weather, ideal for travel. In Berlin, expect temperatures from 59 to 77°F (15 to 25°C), with mostly sunny skies and occasional rain showers. Munich experiences similar conditions, with temperatures ranging from 57 to 75°F (14 to 24°C) and a chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Pack a light jacket for cooler evenings and an umbrella for unexpected rain.

Presently, if you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a visa to visit Germany for tourism stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel dates. 

We require that everyone traveling with Girls' Guide be able to comfortably walk 3–5 miles per day unassisted, and without difficulty, can navigate stairs, uneven streets or paths, and occasional steep terrain. Most of our trips require this level of physical mobility and fitness, especially when visiting historic towns and landmarks where vehicle access is limited and walking often offers the best experience. 


Additionally, some of the 4 and 5-star boutique or historic hotels we stay in do not have elevators and may require climbing stairs to get to your room or access other facilities in the hotel.

Inquire about this trip

The Heart of Germany: from Berlin to Bavaria

Germany· 16 - 23 July 2025· 7 nights

FROM$8,925/pp