If you’ve got a taste for travelling, Germany really ought to be on your radar. This incredible country is like a treasure trove of delights, just waiting for you to uncover its wonders. From the magical Neuschwanstein Castle, a jaw-dropping building straight out of a fairytale, to bustling metropolises like Hamburg, Germany boasts a series of must-sees for any adventurer.
We’ve done the hard work for you and come up with a whistlestop tour of three German cities you absolutely must visit during your trip.
The Top Picks
First and foremost, before you crack on with figuring out your itinerary, you need to consider your flights and accommodation. Luckily, it’s easier now than ever before to compare the options online. You can consider the likes of different flight fares whilst also eyeing up fancy hotels and royal spas, all with one simple search. For example, by visiting Opodo’s website, you can enter a couple of details such as the departure airport and arrival airport of your choice. Then, by selecting the ‘flight and hotel‘ tab, the search results will accommodate price-saving options that take into account both of your specifications. You save time with this approach but as an additional bonus, by booking both products simultaneously, you can save up to 40% on your three-day trip to Germany. This way, you’ll have more money to spend on all your lavish Michelin-starred dinners and glamorous activities over the weekend.
Munich
The first city in our hit list is Munich, the capital of Bavaria, which is synonymous with luxury and sophistication. The city is famous for its high-end shopping districts like Maximilanstraße, where you’ll find luxury fashion brands and exquisite jewellery. Munich also boasts a wealth of elegant hotels, such as the renowned Bayerischer Hof, offering luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and world-class spas. The city’s cultural scene is thriving, with opulent opera houses, prestigious art galleries, and iconic landmarks like the Nymphenburg Palace. Interested in Munich? Here’s your three-day itinerary:
Day 1: Opulent Exploration
Morning:
- Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at a lavish hotel renowned for exquisite culinary offerings.
- Embark on a private guided tour of Munich’s opulent landmarks, including the grandeur of Nymphenburg Palace and its resplendent gardens.
- Indulge in some upscale shopping at the high-end boutiques of Maximilanstraße, where you can find the epitome of extravagant fashion and accessories.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at a refined Michelin-starred restaurant, savouring gourmet cuisine and exceptional wine pairings.
- Immerse yourself in art culture at the world-class Pinakothek museums, where masterpieces from renowned artists adorn the walls.
- Take a leisurely stroll through the English Garden, one of the world’s largest urban parks, and revel in its tranquil beauty.
Evening:
- Relish a delectable dinner at a sophisticated fine dining establishment of your choosing, where expert chefs craft innovative dishes with the finest ingredients.
- Attend a performance at the prestigious Munich National Theatre, revelling in the opulent setting and world-class productions.
Day 2: Redefined Discoveries
Morning:
- Start your day with a rejuvenating spa experience at a luxurious wellness centre, indulging in pampering treatments and serene relaxation.
- Venture to the historic Residenz, a former royal palace showcasing awe-worthy interiors and exquisite artefacts.
Afternoon:
- Treat yourself to a gourmet lunch at a chic bistro or upscale brasserie, savouring delectable flavours and refined presentations.
- Embark on a private tour of BMW Welt, where you can admire the sleek and elegant designs of posh automobiles and experience cutting-edge technology.
Evening:
- Delight in an upscale wine tasting at a refined wine bar, exploring a selection of exquisite vintages from Germany and around the world.
- Experience the vibrant nightlife of Munich at trendy cocktail bars or chic lounges, enjoying the ambience and mingling with the city’s stylish crowd.
Day 3: Extravagant Excursions
Morning:
- Take a day trip to the enchanting Neuschwanstein Castle, an architectural gem nestled amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. Explore the lavish interiors and immerse yourself in fairytale-like surroundings.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a quaint gourmet restaurant, and savour every last mouthful of the regional specialities and tranquil ambience.
- Return to Munich and visit the world-renowned Hofbräuhaus, an iconic beer hall where you can experience the Bavarian beer culture in a lively and luxurious setting.
Evening:
- Sober up and shower yourselves fancy, then take an Uber to the nearby town of Rottach-Egern. Located here is a three-Michelin-star restaurant helmed by acclaimed chef Christian Jürgens, renowned in Germany for his culinary masterpieces. This way, you can end your final night with elegance and sophistication before your morning flight home.
Hamburg
The second city you must visit is Hamburg, which is known as Germany’s ‘Gateway to the World’. Hamburg is renowned as a city of maritime charm and upscale living. It offers a vibrant mix of luxury experiences, including deluxe waterfront hotels, those Michelin-starred restaurants everyone wants to try, and high-end shopping at places like Neuer Wall and Alsterhaus. The stunning concert hall, The Elbphilharmonie, is a must-visit for music lovers seeking top-notch performances.
And, of course, the city’s affluent and exotic neighbourhoods like Blankenese showcase an array of impressive mansions. Here’s your three-day Hamburg itinerary so that you soak up as much of this excellence as possible:
Day 1: Lavish Explorations
Morning:
- Begin your day with a well-deserved breakfast at an upscale hotel offering Hamburger (the people of Hamburg, not the dish!) delicacies.
- Embark on a private guided tour of Hamburg’s extravagant landmarks, including the iconic Elbphilharmonie concert hall and its awe-inspiring architecture.
- Indulge in some high-end retail therapy at the exclusive boutiques along the elegant shopping streets of Jungfernstieg and Neuer Wall.
Afternoon:
- Treat yourself to a luxurious lunch at a refined gastronomic establishment and stop to cherish every mouthful you encounter.
- Immerse yourself in the cultural scene by visiting the renowned Hamburger Kunsthalle, home to an extensive collection of fine art spanning centuries.
Evening:
- Enjoy a sophisticated dinner at an upscale waterfront restaurant, savouring delectable seafood dishes and stunning views of the harbour. A highly regarded waterfront Aperol spritz wouldn’t go amiss here if it’s hot out, either!
- Conclude the evening with a performance at the historic Hamburg State Opera, known for its world-class productions and opulent interiors.
Day 2: Refined Discoveries
Morning:
- Indulge in a pampering spa experience at an exclusive wellness retreat, rejuvenating your mind and body with only the best treatments. Self-care is the best care, after all.
- Explore the famous architecture of the Speicherstadt district, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its red-brick warehouses and picture-perfect canals.
Afternoon:
- Delight in a gourmet lunch at a chic bistro or elegant brasserie, relishing sophisticated flavours and impeccable presentations.
- Take a private yacht tour along the Elbe River, enjoying the ultimate luxury of cruising past Hamburg’s picturesque waterfront and iconic landmarks.
Evening:
- Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hamburg at some of its most stylish cocktail bars. Le Lion – Bar de Paris is an especially note-worthy one to give visit. Inspired by the classic cocktail culture of Paris, this establishment has gained a stellar reputation for its superb mixology and impeccable service.
- If you’re feeling brave, ask one of the mixologists at a bar for a dinner recommendation for after. A local Hamburger working at a fancy bar is sure to point you in the right direction; it’s a guarantee!
Day 3: Extravagant Excursions
Morning:
- Take a day trip to the nearby Blankenese neighbourhood, known for its affluent atmosphere and stunning villas. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Elbe waterfront, soaking in the refined ambience on offer.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy an upscale lunch at The Table, a Michelin-starred restaurant helmed by renowned chef Kevin Fehling. Be sure to be as present as possible as you savour every mouthful of this extraordinary culinary experience. Be sure to reserve – there is limited seating available at the communal table!
- Walk off your lunch by visiting the delightful Miniatur Wunderland, an extraordinary miniature world filled with intricate details, showcasing Hamburg and other iconic global destinations.
Evening:
- End your stay with yet another fine dining experience. Haerlin is a favourable option within the iconic Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten. The concept is modern European cuisine, showcasing a harmonious balance of flavours and stunning presentation with impeccable service to boot.
- If you have time, conclude your stay with a sunset cruise on a private yacht, admiring the stunning views and making a toast to the unforgettable memories made during your stay.
Heidelberg
Last, but by no means least, we have Heidelberg. Heidelberg is a picturesque town in the Neckar River Valley and is renowned for its romantic charm. The historic castle, Heidelberg Castle, provides a stunning backdrop to its generous offerings. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the charming streets lined with boutique shops, indulging in gourmet cuisine at upscale restaurants, and pampering themselves at exclusive spas.
Heidelberg’s idyllic setting and upscale ambience make it a sought-after destination for luxury travellers. So without further ado, here’s your Heidelberg three-day itinerary with the bar set to perfection and excellence!
Day 1: Exploration, Exploration, Exploration
Morning:
- Ring the long weekend in with a bed-in-breakfast scenario at Hotel Heidelberg’s Suites. This hotel is sure to give an unparalleled level of luxury as no other hotel can in Heidelberg. Enjoy the stunning banks of the Neckar River as you sit and have your morning coffee on a balcony.
- Embark on a private guided tour of Heidelberg’s majestic landmarks, including the opulent Heidelberg Castle and its pinch-me-like views of the city.
Afternoon:
- Stay exactly where you are to enjoy a classy lunch at Scharff’s Schlossweinstube, strategically located within the grounds of Heidelberg Castle itself. This elegant restaurant offers a refined luncheon experience with a touch of historical charm like no other.
- Take a scenic boat ride on the Neckar River, marvelling at the idyllic landscapes and the beauty of Heidelberg from a different perspective.
Evening:
- Experience the vibrant nightlife of Heidelberg at a stylish cocktail bar such as Bent Bar. This chic and sophisticated bar attracts all the locals and visitors seeking a classy cocktail in a trendy atmosphere.
- Once you’re all drunk, head to Le Gourmet for a world-class dining experience you’ll be discussing for years to come. Known for its traditional and modern flavours, the chef’s culinary artistry is known to never disappoint.
Day 2: And Now, Relax
Morning:
- Indulge in a rejuvenating spa experience at an upscale wellness centre such as the Löwen Spa, located in the prestigious Hotel Der Europäische with state-of-the-art facilities.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Le Coq Bistro and enjoy the excellent brunch and meat dishes they have in season during your visit.
- Immerse yourself in the culture at the renowned Heidelberg University Library, home to a vast collection of rare manuscripts and treasures.
Evening:
- Attend a classical concert at the opulent Heidelberg Theatre, revelling in the elegant setting and performances.
- Head to a nearby sophisticated dining experience of your choosing – you’ll be spoilt for choice near the theatre!
Day 3: Luxurious Excursions
Morning:
- Embark on a day trip to the nearby Schwetzingen Palace, a magnificent Baroque palace known for its expansive gardens and ornate interiors.
- Enjoy a stroll through the landscaped gardens, immersing yourself in all the beauty you behold.
Afternoon:
- Delight in an upscale lunch at a charming countryside restaurant, relishing regional specialities while taking in the fresh air of the German countryside.
- Return to Heidelberg to visit the prestigious Kurpälzisches Museum, home to impressive art and historical artefacts.
Evening:
- Begin your evening by heading to Chez Eric, one of the best restaurants for fine dining in Heidelberg. From expertly picked seafood to artistic desserts, this seasonal menu is sure to tantalise the tastebuds and leave you savouring every last mouthful.
- Conclude your stay with a nightcap at an elegant wine bar nearby; the options in Heidelberg are plenty.
Expect Excellence
Whichever city you choose, throughout your three-day adventure, you’ll discover the distinct character of each city, be it Heidelberg’s romantic charm, Hamburg’s vibrant atmosphere, or Munich’s rich heritage. From luxurious accommodations to exquisite dining, cultural attractions and upscale experiences, you’ve got it all in whatever city you choose in our three-day itineraries. It’s safe to say these trips will leave you with lasting memories and a desire to return and explore more of Germany’s captivating cities.
