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
Visit the Boros Collection and discover modern art in a WWII bunker
Explore the Sanssouci Palace and Gardens in Potsdam
Visit the iconic Neuschwanstein castle in the foothills of the Alps
Experience a steamer cruise along the Havel River in Potsdam
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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You'll Be Staying Here
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.
Goldene Rose
Hotel Goldene Rose in Dinkelsbühl offers a charming stay in the heart of this beautifully preserved medieval town along Germany’s Romantic Road. Housed in a historic building, the hotel combines traditional Bavarian character with modern comforts, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Its central location makes it easy to wander cobblestone streets, explore timber-framed houses, and soak up the fairytale feel of the village.
Platzl Hotel
Platzl Hotel in Munich blends Bavarian tradition with contemporary style, offering a warm and authentic stay in the city’s historic center. Just steps from Marienplatz and the famed Hofbräuhaus, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring Munich’s lively culture, beer halls, and landmarks. With cozy rooms, refined dining, and a welcoming atmosphere, the hotel captures the spirit of Munich both past and present.
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.
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
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
Tour of East Berlin in a vintage vehicle
Guided tours of Berlin’s historic sites
Spa access at Hotel Goldene Rose
Entry and tour of Stasi Museum
Day tour of the Romantic Road
Visit to Neuschwanstein Castle
A small group experience
Visit to Linderhof Palace
Day trip to Potsdam
Welcome drink
First class train fare
What's Not Included
Additional wine, beer, and/or spirits beyond what’s offered at meals
Roundtrip international airfare to Germany
Travel and medical insurance (required)
All personal souvenirs
Airport transfers
FAQs
What airport should I fly into/out of?
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.
When should I arrive?
Plan to arrive in Berlin by midday or early afternoon on Day One (July 14th) 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 by booking an extra night in the Add On section of this page, 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.
What should I pack?
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.
What is the weather like in July?
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.
Do I need a visa to visit Germany?
Beginning in late 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries—including the U.S., Canada, and Australia—will need an ETIAS permit to visit most of Europe.
No action is needed just yet. As we get closer to the launch date, likely several months in advance, we’ll share all the details on how to apply. Feel free to reach out with any questions!
What's the activity level of this trip?
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.







