Western Germany & The Alsace
If you're dreaming of exploring the off-the-beaten-path side of Europe, spending a week in Western Germany and the Alsace in France might just be exactly what you're looking for. One of the most beautiful cities in Germany, Heidelberg, with its gorgeous Old Town, mighty Castle, and breathtaking scenery, offers the perfect setting from where to begin this once-in-a-lifetime trip. Your next stop is Baden Baden where wellness takes center stage in the form of a rejuvenating hike through the lush Black Forest and pampering sessions at the town's thermal springs. Your final stop, Strasbourg, provides the most scenic ending to a remarkable trip. Join romantic river cruises and fill your eyes with beauty at some of the quaintest villages in the Alsace, such as Colmar and Eguisheim.
One of our team members in Germany or France will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these two countries offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (whom you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.
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What's Included
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Frankfurt
Heidelberg
Baden-Baden
Strasbourg
package excludes:
- Flights from and to your home country.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your destination-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.Day Stop in Frankfurt
Day Stop in Frankfurt
Day Stop in Frankfurt
The birthplace of German democracy, Frankfurt is now more famous for its bankers, and the skyscrapers they have funded. A hub from the very beginning (the name comes from a river ford used by the Franks who went on to conquer France), Frankfurt's airport offers flights to more destinations than any other, and you can seemingly take trains anywhere from here, too. This is one of Germany's most diverse cities, even when its famous trade shows aren't in town, yet next to the skyscrapers you'll find the restored old town that served as the brief capital of a democratic Germany during the failed 1848 revolutions, and remains a reminder of Frankfurt's time as one of the Holy Roman Empire's prime cities.
The birthplace of German democracy, Frankfurt is now more famous for its bankers, and the skyscrapers they have funded. A hub from the very beginning (the name comes from a river ford used by the Franks who went on to conquer France), Frankfurt's airport offers flights to more destinations than any other, and you can seemingly take trains anywhere from here, too. This is one of Germany's most diverse cities, even when its famous trade shows aren't in town, yet next to the skyscrapers you'll find the restored old town that served as the brief capital of a democratic Germany during the failed 1848 revolutions, and remains a reminder of Frankfurt's time as one of the Holy Roman Empire's prime cities.
Day 1 - Day Stop in Frankfurt
Day 1 - Day Stop in Frankfurt
Today, you will trade Frankfurt for Heidelberg. You will be picked up at the airport and taken directly to your accommodations at the other end, a 75-minute ride.
2 Nights in Heidelberg
2 Nights in Heidelberg
2 Nights in Heidelberg
An official UNESCO "City of Literature," Heidelberg is devoted to learning, home to Germany's oldest university, and one of Europe's most famous. If you can't study something at Heidelberg, it doesn't exist. But even if you're not there to join the students who make up 1/4 of Heidelberg's population, there's plenty to do. The massive hilltop Heidelberg Castle is at the top of your list, and the valley the castle sits within offers plenty of great places to take it in before you enter the castle itself. The Baroque Old Town is great for a stroll, with a stop or two in its cozy cafes along the way, as are its medieval university buildings. Many of Heidelberg's best views can be found from the Philosophers' Walk across the river from the city center, trod upon by centuries of thinkers.
An official UNESCO "City of Literature," Heidelberg is devoted to learning, home to Germany's oldest university, and one of Europe's most famous. If you can't study something at Heidelberg, it doesn't exist. But even if you're not there to join the students who make up 1/4 of Heidelberg's population, there's plenty to do. The massive hilltop Heidelberg Castle is at the top of your list, and the valley the castle sits within offers plenty of great places to take it in before you enter the castle itself. The Baroque Old Town is great for a stroll, with a stop or two in its cozy cafes along the way, as are its medieval university buildings. Many of Heidelberg's best views can be found from the Philosophers' Walk across the river from the city center, trod upon by centuries of thinkers.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Heidelberg
Upon your arrival in Heidelberg, a driver will bring you directly to your accommodations.
Bar-Hopping in the Altstadt
Heidelberg's Altsadt ("Old Town") hosts lively nightlife befitting a student city. Among the best wine bars in town is Vinothek Restaurant Oskar on Haspelgasse, which features a broad range of Old and New World labels to taste. A short walk away on Steingasse, you can sample locally brewed beers at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, home to some of the country's strongest beers, at 33% ABV! Last but not least, for a rocking night, head to Eckstein on Fischmarkt. This cool and stylish pub is a very pleasant place to spend the evening, even if you’re not a metalhead.
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Heidelberg
Heidelberg Old Town and Castle Private Tour
The oldest part of Heidelberg has far more to offer than just the Alte Brucke ("Old Bridge"), picturesque alleys, and views of one of Germany's most famous castles. In the Old Town, dreamy squares are linked like beads on a necklace, with people of all ages and from around the world meeting in the many small cafes and pubs, and enjoying the city's museums and theaters. Embark on a tour with a private guide, and really get to know Heidelberg.
Dine on Genuine German Cuisine
Day 3
Day 3 - Traveling to Baden-Baden by Train
Today, you will travel by train from Heidelberg to Baden-Baden. We will arrange a transfer to the train station and book economy class tickets based on your preferred departure time. An upgrade to the first class is available for an additional fee. The train journey takes around 1 hour 15 minutes.
You can upgrade your transfer
Baden-Baden by Private Transfer
Upgrade for an additional cost
2 Nights in Baden-Baden
2 Nights in Baden-Baden
2 Nights in Baden-Baden
Day 3
Day 3 - Arrival in Baden-Baden
Upon your arrival at Baden-Baden Train Station, a driver will meet you and take you directly to your centrally located accommodation.
Unwind In The Thermal Springs
The Romans already discovered the healing power of the twelve thermal springs underneath Baden Baden and built the first thermal baths 2,000 years ago. Today, the historic spa quarter (Bäderviertel) with its two thermal baths in the old town (Altstadt) are a well known attraction for many visitors From a depth of 2,000 metres, 800,000 litres of thermal water gush into the modern Caracalla Spa and the historic Roman-Irish Friedrichsbad every day, guaranteeing exclusive bathing pleasure and well-being for guests from all over the world. Be sure to visit on your next vacation in Baden Baden.
Day 4
Day 4 - Your First Full Day in Baden-Baden
Black Forest Hike Private Tour
This hike is through part of Baden-Baden's Black Forest region, where you can enjoy wonderful views. Your experienced Black Forest guide will accompany you, providing insights into the area, the natural habitats, and the forest's flora and fauna. This is an opportunity to escape the urban hustle and bustle as you immerse yourself in nature and enjoy fantastic panoramic views over the countryside. The rural countryside of Europe beckons!
Day 5
Day 5 - Traveling to Strasbourg by Private Transfer
2 Nights in Strasbourg
2 Nights in Strasbourg
2 Nights in Strasbourg
The largest city in eastern France, Strasbourg is the official seat of the European Parliament. It also hosts the European Council, among other EU institutions. Strasbourg is situated in Alsace, a cultural region in eastern France, just a stone's throw from the country's borders with Germany. Since the 17th century, the Germans and the French took turns ruling the region, which resulted in an unparalleled blend of cultures. German traits remain in the more traditional aspects of life, such as cuisine and architecture, whereas modern institutions are dominated by French culture. Alsace is famous for its quaint villages and stunning architecture, but also for the wine, beer, and fruit liquors produced there.
The largest city in eastern France, Strasbourg is the official seat of the European Parliament. It also hosts the European Council, among other EU institutions. Strasbourg is situated in Alsace, a cultural region in eastern France, just a stone's throw from the country's borders with Germany. Since the 17th century, the Germans and the French took turns ruling the region, which resulted in an unparalleled blend of cultures. German traits remain in the more traditional aspects of life, such as cuisine and architecture, whereas modern institutions are dominated by French culture. Alsace is famous for its quaint villages and stunning architecture, but also for the wine, beer, and fruit liquors produced there.
Day 5
Day 5 - Arrival in Strasbourg
Upon arrival in Strasbourg, your driver will take you directly to your accommodation.
Day 6
Day 6 - Your First Full Day in Strasbourg
Colmar, Riquewihr, and Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle Small Group Day Trip
This is the essential one-day experience in Alsace you can't miss if you want to make the best of your stay in Strasbourg. Visit the enchanting Colmar and Eguisheim villages to get lost in their charming cobblestone streets. Enjoy some free time for lunch and wine tasting in stunning Riquewihr before you get a glimpse of the Haut Koenigsbourg Castle in the company of your guide.
Day 7
Day 7 - Departure Day
Sadly the time has come to bid adieu to France as you head back home. We'll arrange for a private transfer to Strasbourg airport in plenty of time for your departing flight.
Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
Average of our Guest's Ratings of tour packages including these destinations
JayWay takes care of all the arrangements taking into account all of our requests. They make transfers seamless and are always there to answer questions or resolve issues throughout the trip.
– Gary & Donna, Texas
Visited : Germany
Itinerary : Cologne, Hamburg, Rugen Island, Berlin, Nuremberg, Rothenburg, Heidelberg, Frankfurt
Rating :
Having traveled all over the world with our trusty Lonely Planet book, and then later using Airbnb or VRBO, you cannot imagine how grateful I am now at age 79 to have a company like JayWay Travel. Everything is so stress-free and easy!
– Ellen & Elliot, Massachusetts
Visited : Germany
Itinerary : Nuremberg, Munich, Rothenburg, Heidelberg, Frankfurt
Rating :
Fantastic service. Traveling during the summer of 2022 was challenging with COVID issues still present and many travel services like trains and airports overwhelmed. JayWay Travel helped us have an amazing trip despite all the challenges.
– KK and family, California
Visited : Austria, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands
Itinerary : Vienna, Prague, Zurich, Heidelberg, Brussels, Amsterdam, Frankfurt
Rating :