Classic Germany by Train

Visit iconic landmarks in the capital city of Germany with an expert tour guide. Walk through the historic Brandenburg Gate and enjoy the atmosphere of the old town center with its pre-1918 remnants of Prussian grandeur, interspersed with inspired contemporary projects. Berlin is marked by sharp contrasts, and almost every stone you turn is steeped in history. Visit popular destinations such as Unter den Linden boulevard, admire the magnificent dome of the Berlin Cathedral and marvel at the artistic beauty of Museum Island, a World Heritage site. There’s more architectural beauty in store as your tour takes you to Gendarmenmarkt with its concert hall and churches. See the Reichstag where the lower house of the national legislature meets, the popular inner-city park, and the Tiergarten Park, among others. Discover the sites and memorials that have shaped 20th century history, including the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, the site of Hitler’s bunker and the Topography of Terror. And no visit to Berlin can be complete without seeing the former Checkpoint Charlie and remnants of the original Berlin Wall. (Duration: 3 hrs; Time: 10 am; Private Activity; Fitness level: Moderate; Transfers are not included: Meet at Brandenburg Gate, in front of the Southern Guesthouse tourist information office; Entrance fees are not included and can be purchased at your own expense.).

Discover the historical attractions of the former imperial city of Potsdam from within the comfort of a car. Marvel at the exquisitely terraced gardens, ornate follies and the magnificent palaces of Sanssouci the largest World Heritage Site in Germany and summer retreat of Frederick, the King of Prussia. Soak in the history of this gorgeous city before returning to your Berlin hotel. (Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness level: Easy; Sanssoucci entrance fees are included.)

Discover the historic heart of Nüremberg on this informative city tour. From its rich medieval heritage and Industrial-era innovations to the devastating WWII and subsequent modernization, discover your favorite version of this many-layered metropolis. Accompanied by your driver guide, soak in the spirit of the city’s medieval avatar at the Imperial Castle, whose iconic silhouette once represented the grandeur of the Holy Roman Empire. Walk over to the main market square or Hauptmarkt, which is lined with the city’s landmark monuments. This is where the city’s famous Christmas Market or Christkindlesmarkt has been held each year for centuries. Look out for the “Beautiful Fountain” or Schöner Brunnen, a medieval fountain that stands next to the Town Hall, and heritage stores such as a 600-year-old bakery famous for its traditional gingerbread. You will also come across the lovely 14th century Church of our Lady or “Frauenkirche” lining the market square. Stop by the striking structure of St. Lorenz, another medieval church with heritage artwork, dedicated to Saint Lawrence. Also, visit the Nazi Party’s Rally Grounds during your walk. A symbol of Germany’s industrial revolution, Hitler had seen Nüremberg as the perfect site for his massive public rallies. Ironically, after WWII, Nüremberg was also where the war crimes tribunal was set up, which you will see on this historic tour, at the Memorium Nüremberg Trials. (Half Day; Morning Activity, from 1000 hrs onwards; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness level: Moderate; Please wear comfortable walking shoes; Entrance fees for Documentation Centre and Memorium Nuremberg Trials are included).

Get to know a little of the distinctive character of the Bavarian capital on this leisurely walk. Following a hearty breakfast at your hotel, meet your local guide at the landmark fountain on Marienplatz Square, Munich’s central square. As you stroll through the city, passing by iconic churches and cathedrals, museums and historic palaces, let your guide fill you up with stories and anecdotes behind each. Starting off with the Marienplatz, the heart of the Altstadt with the striking St. Peter’s Church and City Hall, enjoy your informative and laidback tour. Amble past the landmark Frauenkirche, the gigantic church with its twin towers; the Residenz Palace and Museum, the erstwhile home of Bavaria’s Wittelsbach rulers; and the legendary Hofbräuhaus, the massive beer hall and restaurant that easily hosts the largest beer tent during Oktoberfest! Also take in the lively Food Market, the old Jewish quarter and the City Museum, as your guide keeps you entertained with snippets from the cultural history of this remarkable city. (Morning Activity; Duration: 2 hrs approx from 1000 hrs onwards; Private Activity; Fitness level: Moderate; Please wear comfortable walking shoes; Transfers are not included: Meet at the fish fountain in Marienplatz; Entrance fees are not included and can be purchased at your own expense).

Experience the beauty of the countryside as you travel to a beautiful palace and a fairytale castle. Settle into your comfortable seat and enjoy panoramic views and amenities such as bathroom and free WiFi. Munch on snacks and sip refreshing drinks as you travel along the autobahn towards the Bavarian Alps. After driving for an hour and a half, step off the coach for the short stroll to the 19th century Linderhof palace, the smallest of three palaces constructed by King Ludwig II. Explore the opulent interior of the palace accompanied by your experienced guide before continuing on to the quaint village of Oberammergau. Saunter through the lanes of this charming hamlet marveling at the exquisite examples of traditional wood carving that it is renowned for. Journey along the famous Romantic Road for about an hour to arrive at the foothills of the majestic Neuschwanstein Castle. Before embarking on the hike up to the castle, you could refuel with a hearty lunch. Alternatively, head to Marienbrücke or Mary’s Bridge to relish picture-postcard views of the spectacular structure that inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. After enjoying the views, make your way up to the castle to arrive punctually for your reserved timed tour. (Full Day; Time of Day: 0830 hrs; Duration: 10.5 hrs; Shared Activity in a Medium-sized Group; Meal Included: Snacks and Drinks; Fitness Level: Easy; Transfers are not included: Meet at Karstadt in front of Munich Central Station)