Enchanting Journey Germany to Scandinavia - 14 Days

Welcome to Berlin! Upon your arrival, we'll arrange your transfer to the hotel, leaving the afternoon free for you to unwind or start exploring this fascinating city at your leisure. Check the hotel's reception noticeboard for information on when and where the tour officially begins. Enjoy your first day in the vibrant capital of Germany, a city rich in history and culture, offering an enticing mix of modern attractions and classic landmarks. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On the second day, immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, with a guided panoramic tour. We'll explore the historic centre, taking in iconic sights such as Museum Island, the Reichstag, and the Brandenburg Gate. Wander through the bustling shopping streets and enjoy the tranquillity of the city's beautiful parks. Our tour will also lead us to poignant landmarks including the Holocaust Memorial and the Berlin Wall Memorial Museum, providing a powerful insight into the city's past. For those interested in exploring further, you have the option to visit Potsdam, known for its stunning palaces and historical significance.

On the third day, we journey to Dresden, a city beautifully situated on the River Elbe. You'll have the opportunity to marvel at its stunning architecture. Our travels continue to Bamberg in Bavaria, a lively and picturesque town—be sure to visit the charming area known as Little Venice. We then proceed to Nuremberg, Bavaria's second-largest city, renowned for its rich historical significance. During your free time, you might want to explore the site where the infamous structure known as Hitler's Coliseum once stood, providing a sobering glimpse into the past.

Today promises a host of delightful experiences. We begin in Kelheim, where we board a boat for a scenic cruise along the Danube valley, navigating through the striking Danube Gorge. Our first stop is Kloster Weltenburg, an exquisite Benedictine monastery with roots dating back to 1040. From here, our journey takes us to Dachau, where we'll visit the profoundly moving Nazi concentration camp museum. Following a lunch break, we head to Munich to explore the striking BMW Welt, an impressive exhibition space dedicated to the renowned German automobile brand. Our tour also includes a visit to the park that houses the Olympiastadion, an architectural wonder from the 1972 Olympic Games. Afterwards, you have free time to enjoy Munich's historic centre. Whether you choose to wander through Marienplatz, discover the charming Viktualienmarkt, relax in the Englischer Garten, or experience a traditional beer house, the choice is yours. Please note that during winter or times when the Danube's water levels are too low, the cruise might be altered to include a visit to Landshut, and Kloster Weltenburg can only be admired from the outside.

Today, our journey takes us through the captivating landscapes of Bavaria, starting with a visit to the picturesque town of Füssen, nestled among the majestic alpine summits. This charming locale serves as the gateway to Neuschwanstein Castle, a fairytale fortress that inspired many with its enchanting vistas. We’ll take a bus to Mary's Bridge, offering spectacular views over the gorge—an opportunity not to be missed. From there, you can choose to return on foot or opt for a horse carriage ride, which captures the charm of old-world travel (not included).

Our adventure continues as we transport ourselves along the famed Romantic Road, leading us to the beautifully preserved medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Here, you'll have the chance to explore the delightful Christmas Museum, included as part of our visit. After soaking up the historic ambiance of the town's cobbled streets and timber-framed buildings, we proceed to Frankfurt, renowned for being the financial hub of Germany. As the day winds down, enjoy reflecting on the day’s sights and experiences with the contrasting allure of historic charm and modernity.

Our exploration today takes us through the enchanting Rhine and Moselle Valleys, regions brimming with history and picturesque villages. We'll begin with a delightful short cruise on the Rhine, navigating the scenic stretch between Rüdesheim and Sankt Goar, widely regarded as the most stunning section of the river. Our journey then leads us to the Moselle River, where we'll pause for lunch in Cochem, a charming Rhine-side village dominated by its impressive ancient castle, a testament to over a millennium of history. Following this, we continue to Cologne, where you will have the opportunity to marvel at its remarkable Gothic cathedral. Standing 154 metres tall, the cathedral was once the tallest building in the world until the late 19th century. You can also enjoy a leisurely walk along the Rhine River and through the vibrant city centre before we proceed to our accommodation in Dortmund. Please note that during fairs or congresses, we may arrange accommodation in a nearby city.

Today, we embark on a journey along the enchanting Fairy Tale Route, visiting the towns that inspired the timeless stories of the Brothers Grimm. Our first stop is Trendelburg, a charming walled village, where we explore its impressive medieval castle and the famed Rapunzel Tower, with admission included in the tour. We continue our drive through picturesque landscapes and forests evocative of Hansel and Gretel’s adventures. We then stop for lunch in Höxter, a vibrant town where our visit includes a tour of Corvey Abbey, an ancient 9th-century monastery recognised as a World Heritage Site. Afterwards, we proceed to Polle to explore the ruins of Cinderella’s Castle, with admission provided.

Our fairy-tale journey continues as we arrive in Hamelin, known for the story of "The Pied Piper of Hamelin." Here, we'll follow the iconic mouse tracks throughout the town. Finally, we head to Hanover, where you will have leisure time to stroll near the historic old town hall and soak in the atmosphere. Please note, during fairs or conferences, we may arrange accommodation in a nearby city. Corvey Abbey is closed from November to February.

After enjoying breakfast, we will set off to explore Hamburg, a vibrant city known for its bustling port and the serene lake nestled in its heart. Following lunch, we will continue our journey to Flensburg, a delightful coastal village with a beautiful marina located near the Danish border. Our adventure will then proceed along the Jutland Peninsula, where we will cross into Denmark and arrive at Aarhus, the country's second-largest city, later in the day. Here, you will have the opportunity to discover Aarhus at your own pace.

Today, we set off from Aarhus towards Hirtshals to board a ferry across the North Sea. We'll embark on a three-hour voyage to Kristiansand in Norway. From Kristiansand, we drive along the idyllic southern coastline, making our way to the charming town of Flekkefjord. Our journey continues onward to Stavanger, a picturesque town known for its bustling port nestled by the fjord. Please keep in mind the ferry schedule may change depending on the month, but there will usually be time to enjoy lunch on board.

Today, we bid farewell to Stavanger, but not before pausing at the majestic Swords in Rock monument, commemorating Norway's Viking heritage. Our route will thread through panoramic tunnels and cross elegant bridges along Norway’s stunning fjord coastline. Among these is the deepest undersea tunnel in the world, adding a touch of wonder to our passage. We'll also enjoy two serene boat journeys that promise spectacular views and a restful experience. Arriving in Bergen by lunchtime, we’ll take to the skies via a cable car to Mount Fløyen, offering breathtaking vistas over the city and surrounding fjords. Following this, you'll have the opportunity to explore Bergen at your own pace, a city often hailed as the gateway to Norway's spectacular fjords.

Today, we immerse ourselves in Norway's awe-inspiring natural beauty as we explore its enchanting fjords, glaciers, and serene forests. Our adventure begins with a visit to the majestic Tvindefossen Waterfall. We then continue to Sognefjord, the largest and one of the most spectacular fjords in Norway. Here, we embark on a captivating cruise from Gudvangen to Aurland, a journey of about one and a half hours through breathtaking scenery—consider enjoying a meal on board to enhance the experience.

Our route takes us through picturesque snow-draped landscapes and the impressive Aurland Tunnel, the longest in the world. En route, we'll pause at the Borgund Stave Church to appreciate its remarkable medieval architecture, renowned as the best-preserved wooden church of its kind in Norway. Upon reaching Oslo, the afternoon is yours to explore. We suggest visiting the vibrant port area, wandering along the bustling main streets, or discovering the intriguing sculptures in Frogner Park.

In Oslo, you'll start the day with a guided panoramic tour of the city, renowned for its blend of modern architecture and classical buildings, amidst spectacular scenery and expansive parks enriched with sculptures. Oslo's commitment to sustainability has earned it the title of European Green Capital. After the tour, you'll have some free time to explore the city at your leisure. We then head towards Sweden, journeying through picturesque landscapes of forests and lakes. Our next destination is Örebro, a historic town beautifully located beside a lake, known for its impressive castle and charming old town, where you'll have time to enjoy a leisurely stroll. We continue to Stockholm, arriving in the evening, ready to discover Sweden's vibrant capital.

We will begin the day with a guided panoramic tour of Stockholm, a stunning capital city spread across 14 islands. Our exploration will take us to Gamla Stan, the city's charming old quarter that showcases impressive landmarks. Among these are the Nobel Prize Museum, situated near the historic Stortorget square—a tribute to Nobel Prize laureates—the Cathedral, and the Royal Palace. We’ll also take in breathtaking views of the city from Fjällgatan viewpoint, if time allows. Afterwards, you’ll have the afternoon free to discover more of Stockholm at your own pace. You might choose to visit its diverse museums and serene parks. Alternatively, you could opt to tour the iconic City Hall or the fascinating Vasa Museum for a deeper insight into the city’s history.

On the final day of our tour, enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Stockholm. As our journey concludes, we part ways, taking with us cherished memories and experiences.