Germany is like that friend who knows how to throw a party—full of history, culture, and a good time. With two weeks to explore, you can experience bustling cities, breathtaking landscapes, and even a few hidden gems. Here’s a travel plan that mixes the must-see spots with some surprising experiences. Get ready to pack your bags and maybe a pair of lederhosen or a dirndl—just in case.
Week 1: Major cities and cultural experiences
Start your adventure in Berlin, the capital that never sleeps. Spend 3 days soaking in the history and diverse culture.
- Day 1: Arrive and explore.
Morning: Land at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). Take the Airport Express to Berlin Central Station (30 minutes).
Afternoon: Check into your hotel, then head to Brandenburg Gate. Snap some photos and maybe practice your best “I’m a tourist” pose.
Evening: Visit the Reichstag Building. Grab dinner at a nearby restaurant and enjoy some currywurst. Who can resist sausage smothered in ketchup and curry powder?
- Day 2: Dive into history.
Morning: Start at the Berlin Wall Memorial. It’s a sobering experience but a must-see.
Afternoon: Visit Checkpoint Charlie and the Topography of Terror. Feel free to roll your eyes at the overly dramatic reenactments.
Evening: Head to Kreuzberg for a lively atmosphere. Enjoy street food at Markthalle Neun and maybe dance off those calories at a local bar.
- Day 3: Art and culture.
Morning: Explore Museum Island. You can’t do all the museums, but pick a couple that interest you. Maybe the Pergamon Museum?
Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll down Unter den Linden, checking out shops and cafes. Stop for a coffee, because you deserve it.
Evening: Catch a show at the Berlin State Opera. Dress fancy, even if you just bought your outfit from a thrift store.
Next up, hop on a train to Munich (4 hours). Spend 3 days soaking up Bavarian culture.
- Day 4: Welcome to Munich.
Morning: Arrive in Munich and check into your hotel. Try the local pastries—your taste buds will thank you.
Afternoon: Visit Marienplatz and see the Glockenspiel. It’s a bit touristy, but you have to see it at least once.
Evening: Dinner at Hofbräuhaus. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also fun. Prost!
- Day 5: Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle.
Morning: Take an early train to Füssen (2 hours), then a bus to Neuschwanstein (30 minutes). Bring your camera; this castle is Instagram gold.
Afternoon: Explore the castle and its stunning surroundings. Don’t forget to bring a snack. You’ll need the energy.
Evening: Return to Munich and relax with a beer in a local beer garden. You’ll learn to love pretzels.
- Day 6: Explore more of Munich.
Morning: Visit the English Garden. It’s bigger than Central Park. Maybe rent a bike to see it all.
Afternoon: Relax by the lake or watch surfers at the Eisbach wave. Yes, you heard that right—surfing in a river.
Evening: Head to the Olympic Park for dinner with a view. Check the schedule—maybe there’s a concert or event.
Week 2: Scenic routes and hidden gems
After Munich, head to the Black Forest for some nature therapy. Spend 3 days hiking and enjoying the scenery.
- Day 7: Travel to the Black Forest.
Morning: Take a train to Freiburg (2 hours). This charming city is the gateway to the Black Forest.
Afternoon: Explore Freiburg’s old town and visit the Münster Cathedral. Grab a bratwurst for lunch; it’s practically a requirement.
Evening: Check out a local wine bar. The area is known for its great wines, so indulge a little.
- Day 8: Hiking in the Black Forest.
Morning: Start your hike at Feldberg. It’s the highest peak, and the views are worth the hike.
Afternoon: Picnic with some local treats you picked up in Freiburg. Nothing says vacation like eating in nature.
Evening: Head back to Freiburg. Consider a night walk to see the city illuminated.
- Day 9: Scenic drive and charming towns.
Morning: Rent a car and drive the scenic Schwarzwaldhochstraße. Stop at small towns like Baden-Baden and Gengenbach. Grab a piece of Black Forest cake—how cliché, but totally necessary.
Afternoon: Explore Triberg and its waterfalls. Don’t forget to pick up a cuckoo clock as a souvenir. Your future self will thank you.
Evening: Drive back to Freiburg and enjoy a casual dinner in a local restaurant. Reflect on your hiking achievements.
Finally, wrap up your adventure with 3 days in Hamburg, a city known for its maritime charm.
- Day 10: Travel to Hamburg.
Morning: Take a train to Hamburg (6 hours). It’s a long ride, so bring snacks.
Afternoon: Check into your hotel and head to the Speicherstadt district. The architecture is stunning, and you can’t resist a good photo op.
Evening: Dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Try some fresh fish—after all, it’s Hamburg.
- Day 11: Explore Hamburg.
Morning: Visit Miniatur Wunderland. It’s a massive model railway exhibit that will make you feel like a kid again.
Afternoon: Stroll around the Elbphilharmonie and take in the views. Perhaps play the role of a cultured individual for a moment.
Evening: Experience the Reeperbahn for nightlife. It’s lively and a bit wild, so go with an open mind.
- Day 12: Relax and enjoy.
Morning: Take a boat tour of the harbor. It’s a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective.
Afternoon: Visit Planten un Blomen park for a peaceful afternoon. Enjoy the gardens and maybe catch a free water light show.
Evening: Celebrate your trip with a final dinner in the city. Look back on your journey over a hearty meal and a cold beer.
Two weeks in Germany can feel like a whirlwind tour, but with this itinerary, you’ll hit the highlights while also finding time for local experiences. Your friends will be jealous when you tell them about your adventures. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable time in Germany!
