Contrasting Lands: Bavaria and Eastern Germany

Where to Wander on Day One?

It can be hard to decide how to spend your first hours in Berlin, since the city offers so much for every personal preference. If you’d like to see the city’s more artistic and hip side, we recommend focusing on the district of Kreuzberg, southeast of the city’s Mitte (“middle”) district. If you’d prefer to stay within walking distance of your hotel, we suggest focusing on the area around Hackescher Markt, north of Museum Island, or heading to Alexanderplatz, where you’ll find the city’s best view from atop its signature TV tower. Speak to your local representative for insider tips.

Berlin City Group Tour

Enjoy a three hour walking tour and delve into the turbulent and far-reaching history of Berlin, from its humble beginnings as a fishing village through to the momentous events of the 20th century, when it was the capital of the Nazi Third Reich, then a divided city during the Cold War and, ultimately, the modern capital of a reunified Germany

A Museum Paradise

Potsdam, City of Kings: 6-hour Private Walking Tour

Your professional, local guide will meet you in Berlin and take you to Potsdam, starting at the Glienicke Bridge, famously known as the "Bridge of Spies." From there, you’ll cross into former East Germany and visit the New Gardens to see the Marble Palace across Heiliger See Lake. Next, explore Cecilienhof Palace, where the Potsdam Conference set the stage for the Cold War, and continue through Potsdam’s historic center via the Nauen Gate and Dutch Quarter to Brandenburg Gate. The tour concludes at Sanssouci Gardens, where you’ll see Frederick the Great’s palace, his grave, and other notable sites before returning to Berlin. Bathroom and refreshment breaks are included.

Varied Districts and Green Spaces

Berlin's a vast and sprawling city with some very diverse neighborhoods. You definitely couldn't explore all of our suggestions in a day so we feel it's best to pick one that fits your interests.

The Jewel Box of Europe

For something unique, visit the “Green Vault” in the Neumarkt section of the old town. Here you will find the largest treasure trove in Europe, if not the world. Located within Dresden’s main palace, the architecture alone is exceptional, with its mix of modern and Baroque elements, to say nothing of its glittering collection. A true gem, you could spend a good portion of the day just looking over its literal gems.

Dresden Old Town Private Walking Tour

A must-do for getting to know the city of Dresden is strolling through its historical Old Town. From the majestically situated Theatre Square with the world-famous Semper Opera House to the baroque Zwinger Festival Square with its striking landmark - the Crown Gate and from the galleries lined with fountains to Taschenbergpalais, the former residence of Countess Cosel, Dresden remains a major cultural centre of historical memory.

Take a Museum Day

Despite, or because of, Dresden's almost complete destruction during World War II, this city takes history seriously. The best museums in Dresden rank among the finest in Germany. The capital of Saxony offers such a diversity in this regard, that you can see everything from history, world art, and technology, to science and contemporary art, and more. You can read all about our favorites in this article on our blog.

Climb the Castle Hill

After getting settled, we recommend ascending through the city to the imposing castle at one end of the historic center. The castle and the neighboring city walls are considered one of the most imposing medieval fortifications in Europe. In contrast, the castle itself offers the best view of the city and its preserved center. Be sure to check out the castle gardens, which are a quiet retreat from the bustle of the city.

Old Town and Nazi Rally Grounds Group Walking Tour

Join a group walking tour and discover this amazing medieval town with a professional guide. You'll dive deep into the city's sometimes dark history, including its ties to Nazism.

Bratwurst and Gingerbread

See the City from Above

Although not a city of skyscrapers, Munich offers numerous wonderful viewpoints. The best panoramic views of the Old Town are available from the St. Peter's Church (or "Old Peter," as the locals call it) viewing platform, which is climbed by thousands of visitors every day. Climb the 300 stairs (no elevator available) for the breathtaking views of the Frauenkirche and the Town Hall. Munich's highest point, the Olympic Tower, offers views over the whole city and on a clear day the Alps beyond. You can even enjoy a unique perspective on the city via a modern zeppelin, although these rides are offered rarely, and book up quickly (the zeppelin is generally used for tours of Lake Constance, on the Swiss border).

Munich Private Walking Tour

Explore Munich's iconic historical landmarks, stunning churches, and renowned beer halls. This tour delves into the darker chapters of the city's 20th-century Nazi history, while also showcasing its vibrant, charming side. Along the way, you'll hear captivating stories and fascinating facts that bring the city’s rich past to life.

Bavarian Food & Beer Private Tour

Munich, the self-proclaimed "Beer Capital of the World," takes great pride in its beer halls, beer gardens, and, of course, the legendary Oktoberfest. This 3-hour walking tour offers an engaging introduction to the history of Bavarian beer and Munich’s vibrant beer culture, which have shaped not only cherished traditions but also played pivotal roles in German history and politics. As you explore some of Munich's finest traditional beer halls and restaurants, you'll indulge in plenty of delicious food and drink. Savor a variety of local beers and enjoy classic Bavarian snacks, from freshly baked pretzels to a hearty Brotzeit platter. Come hungry—this tour is as much a feast as it is a journey into the heart of Munich’s beer heritage!

Bavarian Beer Group Tour

What could be a more fitting way to explore Munich than a beer tour? On this splendid evening with like-minded fellow-travelers you'll see why Munich is considered by many to be the beer capital of the world as you not only delve into amazing beers, pretzels, and cold cuts, but also the role Munich's beer culture has played in its history and that of Germany itself.

More Than a Viktualienmarkt Small Group Food Tour

Prosperous Munich is perhaps Germany's food capital. This tour invites you to discover the various culinary delights of Bavarian/Franconian cuisine on an easy walk. You'll discover a great variety of food in a relatively small area. The neighborhood around Viktualienmarkt is rich in historical sites as well. You will explore the Marienplatz, the local food market and the Jewish Quarter, with its synagogue - all within a few hundred meters. As you walk, you'll stop by food stalls, taste local samples and wash them down with real Bavarian beer, for a fulfilling experience!

Neuschwanstein Castle Small Group Tour

Neuschwanstein Castle Day Trip with Private Transportation

This is a fantastic tour around one of the world's most beautiful castles! Your guide will tell you about the history of the place and some of the unique features that make it special. It's like visiting a fairy tale world. Along the way you'll also enjoy a lovely and scenic drive through the countryside.

Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Small Group Tour