Dresden at Sunset
Caption: Dresden at Sunset
Caption: The Berlin Wall
Caption: Front of the Brandenburg Gate
Caption: Bamberg Townhall
Caption: Saxon Switzerland National Park
Caption: Berlin at night - Photo by Stefan Widua on Unsplash
Caption: Tram to Bad Schandau
Caption: Meissen, Germany
Caption: Sanssouci Palace
Caption: Namburg, Germany

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Journey Snapshot

Activity level: Level 2 Requires moderate physical activity. You need to be able to participate in physical activities such as longer walking tours, walking over uneven terrain, climbing steps and be comfortable with some periods of standing. Not suitable if you have limited mobility or require a wheelchair/mobility scooter.
Destination: Historic Germany: Castles, Culture & Charm
Duration: 13 Days/ 12 Nights
Flight information: Please arrange your flights to arrive at Berlin Airport [BER], on Day 1 and to depart from Munich Airport [MUC] on day 13, unless you are joining us on the Austria Member Event!
Pickup location: Berlin Airport [BER]

Overview

01 - 13 Sep, 2026

Germany is a country of rich history, breathtaking castles, and vibrant cultural traditions. From fairy-tale landscapes to dynamic cities, it seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern innovation.

Germany is a country that will leave a lasting impression on you. Situated in the heart of Europe, its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture offer visitors an unforgettable experience year-round. Joining our escorted group tour will ensure you make the most of this fascinating land of castles, heritage, and charm.

Itinerary

Itinerary summary: DAY 1 - Arrival in Berlin – Welcome to Germany
DAY 2 - Discovering Berlin’s Historic Landmarks
DAY 3 - Potsdam’s Palaces and Arrival in Dresden
DAY 4 - The Splendor of Dresden
DAY 5 - A Day in Saxon Switzerland National Park
DAY 6 - Porcelain and Steam Trains in Meissen
DAY 7 - Leipzig via Colditz Castle
DAY 8 - Leipzig’s Cultural and Historical Highlights
DAY 9 - Naumburg and Wine Tasting
DAY 10 - Bayreuth and Arrival in Nuremberg
DAY 11 - Nuremberg’s Rich History
DAY 12 - Bamberg – A Fairytale City
DAY 13 - Farewell to Munich
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Full Itinerary

DAY 1 - Arrival in Berlin – Welcome to Germany

Welcome to Berlin, Germany’s vibrant capital, known for its fascinating history, dynamic culture, and striking architecture.

Upon arrival at Berlin Airport [BER], you will be met for your driver who will transfer you to the tour hotel in the heart of the city.

Take the evening to unwind, explore the lively streets of Berlin, or simply relax after your journey.

Accommodation: The Westin Grand Hotel, Berlin  

DAY 2 - Discovering Berlin’s Historic Landmarks

After breakfast, get ready to head into Berlin's deep history. 

Today we visit the Berlin Wall Memorial, a powerful testament to the city’s divided past, where you will learn about life during the Cold War and the events leading to the fall of the wall in 1989. We then stroll along the East Side Gallery, an open-air museum featuring over 100 murals painted on remnants of the Berlin Wall. The tour continues with a visit to The Wall Museum, where interactive exhibits provide deeper insight into Berlin’s divided history.

Next, we head to the DDR Museum, located in the former East Berlin, where you will get a hands-on experience of everyday life in East Germany during the Soviet era.

In the evening, we gather for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you will enjoy delicious German cuisine and have the opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers.

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner 
Accommodation: The Westin Grand Hotel, Berlin  

DAY 3 - Potsdam’s Palaces and Arrival in Dresden

This morning we bid farewell to Berlin and journey to Potsdam, the former royal residence of Prussian kings. Here, we visit Sanssouci Palace, the summer retreat of Frederick the Great, King of Prussia. This stunning Rococo palace, often referred to as Germany’s answer to Versailles, is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.

We will enjoy a leisurely lunch at a historic restaurant before continuing to Dresden, known as the “Florence on the Elbe” for its baroque and rococo splendor.

This evening, we check into our hotel and take the evening at leisure.

Included meals: Breakfast & Lunch  

DAY 4 - The Splendor of Dresden

Today, we explore the Dresden's rich artistic and architectural heritage. Almost completely destroyed during World War II, Dresden has been painstakingly restored to its former grandeur. 

Visit the Royal Palace, home to the world-famous Historic Green Vault and New Green Vault, which house an extraordinary collection of treasures, including gold, jewels, and fine artworks amassed by Saxon rulers.

Afterward, enjoy free time to explore Dresden at your own pace, perhaps strolling along the Elbe River or visiting the stunning Frauenkirche, a masterpiece of baroque architecture that was rebuilt after the war.

Included meals: Breakfast 

DAY 5 - A Day in Saxon Switzerland National Park

After breakfast, we prepare to venture into Saxon Switzerland National Park today. This park offers breathtaking landscapes of sandstone mountains, dense forests, and dramatic rock formations. Walk across the Bastei Bridge, an iconic viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the Elbe Valley, the perfect picture!

Before lunch we experience a nostalgic ride on the historic Kirnitzschtalbahn tram, which has been running through the region since 1898. After a our lovely meal we have time to explore Königstein Fortress, a formidable hilltop fortress with a history dating back over 800 years.

The evening is at lesuire. 

Included meals: Breakfast & Lunch  

DAY 6 - Porcelain and Steam Trains in Meissen

We travel to Meissen today, the birthplace of European porcelain. Once we arrive, we visit the renowned Porcelain Manufactory, where fine porcelain has been crafted since 1710. We enjoy lunch at Café Meissen, where our meals will be elegantly served on exquisite Meissen porcelain.

This afternoon we explore the charming medieval town on a guided walking tour before boarding a vintage steam train from Moritzburg to Radebeul, taking in the scenic countryside along the way.

Included meals: Breakfast & Lunch  

DAY 7 - Leipzig via Colditz Castle

After breakfast, en route to Leipzig we stop at Colditz Castle, the infamous World War II prisoner-of-war camp that housed Allied officers attempting daring escapes.

Upon arrival in Leipzig, a city known for its musical heritage and intellectual history, take the afternoon to explore at your leisure.

In the evening, enjoy a delightful three-course meal at Auerbachs Keller, one of Germany’s oldest restaurants, famously frequented by Goethe.

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner 

DAY 8 - Leipzig’s Cultural and Historical Highlights

Today we explore Leipzig's deep-rooted history with visits to St. Thomas Church, where composer Johann Sebastian Bach worked as a cantor, and the Panometer Leipzig, an immersive 360-degree art installation depicting historical scenes.

This afternoon we take a relaxing boat trip through Leipzig’s canals, gaining a unique perspective on this vibrant city.

The evening is a lesuire. 

Included meals: Breakfast 

DAY 9 - Naumburg and Wine Tasting

After breakfast, we head to the coach and journey to Naumburg.

On arrival we head to the magnificent Naumburg Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

After exploring the cathedral, enjoy a wine tasting experience, sampling some of the finest regional wines alongside a delicious snack.

This evening is at your lesuire. 

Included meals: Breakfast & Wine Tasting 

DAY 10 - Bayreuth and Arrival in Nuremberg

This morning we depart Naumburg and travel to Nuremberg, stopping in the city of Bayreuth on the way. This city is famous for its association with composer Richard Wagner.

We stop to explore Bayreuth’s charming old town before continuing to Nuremberg, where you will check into your hotel and have the evening free.

Included meals: Breakfast 

DAY 11 - Nuremberg’s Rich History

Today we begin the morning with a guided walking tour of Nuremberg, a city known for its medieval architecture and significant role in World War II history.

Enjoy free time to visit the city’s many museums using your Nuremberg Card, which grants access to top attractions and unlimited public transportation.

Included meals: Breakfast 

DAY 12 - Bamberg – A Fairytale City

Finally we finish our joruney in Bamberg, a stunning UNESCO-listed town with well-preserved medieval and baroque buildings. Visit the imposing Bamberg Cathedral, home to the tomb of Emperor Henry II.

After a guided tour through the old town, enjoy leisure time to explore the picturesque streets and famous Little Venice district.

In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner at a charming local restaurant, reflecting on the wonderful memories made during the journey.

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner 

DAY 13 - Farewell to Munich

This morning we conclude our tour around the beautiful Germany. We will ensure you are transfered to Munich Airport for your flight home. 

If your not ready just yet to leave us, join us on the Austria Member Event to explore more of Europe!

Included meals: Breakfast 

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More information

What's includedWhat's not includedImportant information

What's included

• Meet & Greet upon arrival at Berlin Airport [BER]
• All transfers as outlined in the itinerary
• Accommodation as specified in the itinerary
• Meals as detailed in the itinerary
• Guided excursions as per the itinerary
• Comfortable transportation in a deluxe, air-conditioned vehicle
• Expert guidance from a qualified and experienced English-speaking guide
• A Big Journey Company Tour Host as well as the local tour guide (subject to minimum group size being reached.)

What's not included

•International flights – Please arrange your flights to arrive at Berlin Airport [BER] on Day 1 and depart from Munich Airport [MUC] on Day 13

• Transfers outside of the scheduled tour dates

• Drinks (unless specified)
• Gratuities for guides, drivers, and service staff
• Visas, travel, and medical insurance (if required)
• Personal expenses and any items not listed under “What’s Included”
• Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
• Optional activities available during the tour
• Any COVID-related tests or entry/exit requirements (if applicable)

Important information

  • Please note, flights to/from Germany are not included in this package. The Big Journey Company would be happy to provide a quotation for your flights - please contact us for further details
  • Please let The Big Journey Company know prior to travelling if you have any medical needs or take any medication that we need to be made aware of to ensure that you have a safe and pleasant tour.
  • Check in is after 2:00 - 3:00pm and check out is before 10am unless otherwise specified in the itinerary.
  • Cancellation 90 – 0 days prior to departure cancellation fee is 100%. It is your responsibility to ensure the correct travel insurance in place to protect you against the need to cancel your holiday.
  • Deposits are non-refundable. Final payments are due 14 weeks prior to departure.
  • Further terms and conditions apply and will be provided upon request or at the time of booking. The Big Journey Company reserves the right to withdraw any offer prior to accepting a reservation request. This does not affect your statutory rights. This offer is subject to availability and space is limited.

The big journey promise

The big journey company was set up with one goal in mind, to share our passion for inspirational cultures, destinations and experiences. Over the last 10 years we have had the privilege to escort thousands of travellers on awe inspiring and sometimes life changing journeys. Our promise to every guest who joins us is that we will do everything possible to make sure your journey not only exceeds expectations but delivers at least one moment of true amazement.

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Holiday tours are operated by The Big Journey Company Limited. Registered in England. Registered office: Marron Bank, Branthwaite, Cumbria, CA14 4SZ. Registered number: 6532140. The Big Journey Company Limited is a member of The Travel Trust Association member number U5675 and holds an Air Travel Organiser’s License number T7282.

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