Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

There simply is no way to tour Europe & not be awestruck by its natural beauty, epic History & dazzling Artistic & Culinary diversity. An intricate jigsaw of Landscapes, Cultures, Art & Architecture, Europe retains time-honoured traditions while constantly evolving to incorporate inspired new trends. Start your day in blissful Italy, an afternoon can be spent in quiet London with some of its beautiful tourist attractions & a starry night in Paris.

& Deutschland, blessed with some of Europe's most high-powered sights, has always marched to a different drummer - Lederhosen, Oktoberfest, Polka Dancing. Jagged Alps, flower-filled Meadows, rolling hills of Forests & Farms & mighty Rivers - dotted all over with Castles & Churches of every variety.

Free State of Bavaria, in the south-east, is the largest State by land area, comprising roughly a fifth of the total land area of Germany & is known for its bright blue skies, pristine countryside, clean air, wealth of culture & the infamous laid-back Bavarian attitude.

Outdoor activities & relaxation. From the cloud-shredding Alps to the fertile Danube plain, Bavaria is a place that keeps its cliched promises. Visitors in need of a relaxing break & the sporty types hoping for plenty of activity are sure to appreciate the many crystal-clear Rivers & Lakes, the National Parks & countless Nature Reserves, mysterious Forests & sun-soaked Vineyard slopes, the wild & romantic low Mountain landscapes & the majestic snow-capped Alpine summits. Not to mention the Zugspitze, the tallest Peak in Germany.  

Amidst countless picturesque Villages, its Capital Munich wows visitors with its picture-perfect scenic beauty & UNESCO World Heritage sites & a wealth of cultural attractions. Imposing medieval ‘fairy tale’ Castles & Abbeys, magnificent Palaces, baroque Churches, bequeathed by an oddball King poke through dark forest, Cowbells tinkle in flower-filled Meadows, the thwack of palm on Lederhosen accompanies the clump of frothy Stein on timber Bench & medieval walled Towns go about their time-warped business.  Small medieval Towns, vibrant Cities & Bavaria's urban Hubs provide the backdrop for traditional Events - Opera Festivals, Oktoberfest, the historical Landshut Wedding Pageant, the Oberammergau Passion Plays & of course, the Christmas Markets. The traditional & the modern go hand in hand here.

There is the internationally renowned UNESCO World Heritage listed Neuschwanstein Castle of King Ludwig II & Wieskirche Pilgrimage Church. There are more than 100,000 architectural monuments, over 1,200 Museums & Collections, 40 high-end Theatres & venues across Bavaria. There are Sites along the Roman Limes, in or around Wurzburg, Bamberg, Regensburg, Augsburg, Bayreuth & around the Alps.

Arrive in the city of Munich - the Capital with its tall Tankards & high-tech Cars, edgy Art & Lederhosen. Munich is a city where traditional & modern sit side by side like few places on earth.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? -  Munich Franz Josef Strauss. International Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the Hotel. He / she will provide assistance during Check-in & you may also discuss the program for the next few days.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel unless advised.

Reach the Hotel, Check-in & relax.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the day free for independent explorations (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make any arrangements).

Why visit Munich - home to the most impressive skyline in Germany as well as world-renowned Museums & Galleries, historical Cathedrals & stunning views ?

Monumental History| Scenic Views| Teutonic Treasure Trove | Bizarre Bavaria

Munich’s various quirks, the things that make the city the place it is, might be what stick in the memory most. Whether it be the inebriated oompah band, that special knife for eating monster radishes, the Bavarians outrageous dialect, the mad hat traditions of the Oktoberfest or the Surfers on the Eisbach wave - you are sure to discover some freakish aspect of Munich life every day. And then there is the local garb - nowhere else in central Europe do the locals don their traditional costume - the famous Lederhosen & Dirndl - as readily as the Munchners, so why not join them?

The natural habitat of well-heeled power dressers & Lederhosen-clad thigh-slappers, Mediterranean-style street Cafes & Mitteleuropa Beer Halls, highbrow art & high-tech industry, Germany’s unofficial southern Capital, Munich is famous for its beautiful Architecture, fine Culture & the annual Oktoberfest celebration, including the famed Hofbrauhaus, founded in 1589.

Munich has the beauty, with beautiful Architecture, Nature & Parks as well as having a vibrant social buzz with plenty of Nightlife, Restaurants & Bars.

Munich has long been known as the ‘City of Art & Beer’, so before you head off to the Pub, take some time to savour the local Art scene at Kunstareal, the city’s Art quarter, with 4 major venues displaying everything from Dutch Masters to 1960s design. The city also boasts some world-class Museums focusing on topics as diverse as Oktoberfest, Porcelain & BMW cars. And if that weren't enough, there are still royal Palaces to explore - the legacy of 700 years of rule by a single family, the Wittelsbachs.

Beer has been part of Munich life for at least 7 centuries & the brewing tradition is very much alive & kicking today. Nowhere else in Europe has a beer tradition quite like here, with 6 mammoth Breweries, some of the largest in the country, pumping out world-class suds to hundreds of Beer Gardens & Beer Halls. The pinnacle is, of course, the famous Oktoberfest, attended by over 6 million people. Germany’s ‘purity law’ guarantees there is nothing in your Mass (1L tankard) that shouldn’t be, so if you can lift the thing - ‘Prost!’ (Cheers!).

The locals have a favourite word - Gemutlichkeit - that untranslatable intermingling of cosiness, well-being & laid-back attitude. In Munich, you will sense it most under the fairy lights of a summer Beer Garden, people-watching in the English Garden & behind the wheel of a BMW heading south. It may be just the local character, but a large share of Gemutlichkeit must come from the fact that the Bavarian Capital is one of the most affluent Cities on the Planet, it’s economy larger than most small Countries, its infrastructure well-tended.

Munich is rich in history, continental & local and the Architecture, Streets, Churches, Gardens & public spaces reflect the best of centuries of competing cultures. The cultural scene is second to none in Germany, with the Museums even considered by some to outrank Berlin in quality & many travelers to Munich are absolutely stunned by the quality of the Architecture. Though they sometimes get overlooked during the heady days of summer, many of the Museums open their new Exhibitions in the Autumn. The Kunstareal Museum area is always worth a visit, with the Pinakothek Museums, the Brandhorst Museum, the Lenbachhaus Art Gallery as well as the popular Deutsches Museum. In the Altstadt area, stop in at the Munchner Stadtmuseum, the MUCA Museum of Contemporary Art or the Kunsthalle Art Gallery. Also worth a visit are the Haus der Kunst & the Valentin-Karlstadt-Museum.

There are few other cities which are as focused around their centres as Munich - but unlike other City Centres, the Altstadt (Old Town) here is a place that is actually full of life being lived. The walkable Centre retains a small-town air but holds some world-class sights, centuries-old buildings, Art Galleries & Museums.

Viktualienmarkt in the Altstadt is a kind of city within the city - like the City of London. Although the historic centre of London is pervaded by a sterile post-apocalyptic emptiness at the weekend, when all the Bankers are at home. And do actual New Yorkers bump into each other at Times Square or Parisians at the Louvre? No - those places are left for those who come to visit them.

You nurse a half-litre glass of Beer in the Beer Garden across, enjoying the occasional sip, the hustle & bustle of the Market surrounding you & the sunshine glinting off the gleaming metal covering the Stalls as you watch the Shoppers buying vegetables, fruit, cheese, mushrooms, spices, flowers, hung meat, pickles, fermented produce. The Centre draws the locals as if by magic, even though they constantly gripe about the commercialism, the inflated prices & the crowds. Still they politely line up at Dallmayr to procure top-quality Crayfish or Chocolates.  This behaviour has ingrained itself in the culture of the city over centuries, as Munich’s citizens did their shopping downtown as far back as the Middle Ages.

Munich boasts many wooded areas to satisfy forest-lovers, both in its environs & in the city centre, along the banks of the Isar River. Allacher Lohe Nature Reserve is home to up to 300 different species of mushrooms. Perlacher & Hofoldinger Forsts are also perfect if you want to go foraging for mushrooms. And the best thing is that all Forests in the vicinity can be accessed by Public Transport.

Unquestionably one of the best activities when the days are cold & dark: Shopping! In the City Centre, one can explore Munich’s traditional mammoth Department Stores such as Hirmer, Oberpollinger & Ludwig Beck. If the weather is bad, then it is best to head to one of the city’s covered Shopping centres, such as Funf Hofe or Brienner Quartier.  Glockenbachviertel & Maxvorstadt districts, boast numerous 2^nd hand Shops as well as less famous smaller local Labels. Shopping for traditional Costume is a popular pastime in Munich all year round. You can find the perfect Dirndl & Lederhosen & Haferlschuhe (traditional Bavarian shoes) & traditional Hats.

If you are looking for Alpine cliches, they are all here, but the Bavarian Metropolis has many an unexpected card down its Dirndl.

Throw in royal Bavarian heritage, an entire suburb of Olympic legacy & a kitbag of dark tourism & it is clear why southern Germany’s Metropolis is such a favourite among those who seek out the past but like to hit the town once they are done.

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 08.30 am & proceed for a 3 hour ‘walking’ tour.

There is plenty to see & do in Germany’s 3^rd biggest city, known for its beautiful Parks, many Museums & beautiful centuries-old Palaces. Bavaria’s Capital is especially known for its annual Oktoberfest celebration & its numerous Beer Halls, including the famed Hofbrauhaus, founded in 1589.

The drive will take you around some of the famous landmarks like Marienplatz Square, Viktualienmarkt, National Theatre, Frauenkirche Church & a lot more.

In the Altstadt (Old Town), central Marienplatz Square in the centre of Munich, dominated by neo-Gothic Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall designed by Georg Hauberrisser, who won a competition to design the new Hall) & Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall). The Neues Rathaus, covers 9,159 m² (3.5 sq miles) & has over 400 rooms.

Picturesque Marienplatz has been the city's main Square since Munich was founded by Henry the Lion in 1158. It was the centre of Munich's life, used for Markets & Events & was originally called Schrannenplatz (or Grain Market Square) as it was the main Market place in the Middle Ages. The 500 year old building has conserved a medieval look despite several reconstructions over the years.

The façade features grotesque gargoyles, a turret-climbing Dragon & the famous elaborate Glockenspiel (Cuckoo Clock), one of the largest in Europe, in the Tower of the Neues Rathaus with its 43 bells that chime & a carousel of 32 figures re-enacting stories from the 16^th century & the Schafflertanz (or Cooper's Dance) at 11.00 am & noon. Between March & October the Carillon also takes place at 05.00 pm daily.

At the centre of Marienplatz, there is the 11 metres tall Mariensaule (Column) of Tegernsee marble, erected by Elector Maximilian I in 1638, on top of which a golden Statue of the Virgin Mary, the Patrona Bavariae, watches over the city & state of Bavaria. The Column was meant to symbolise his gratitude for keeping Munich safe & in celebration of the end of the 30 years Swedish occupation. It is also a central point for Catholics as a total of 3 Popes have visited the Column: Pius VI in 1782, Johannes Paul II in 1980 & Benedict XVI in 2006. It is a popular meeting place, the start of the pedestrian zone & the starting point from which distances from other locations in the city are measured.

Just around the corner is the colorful, historical Farmer’s Market - Viktualienmarkt. located in the heart of the historic Altstadt. It is an enormous Food Market where more than 140 Vendors sell all sorts of Culinary products from their sprawling Stalls, from fresh ingredients to hot snacks like the famous wurst, or sausages, homemade soup, pretzel, fresh falafel to fresh fruit & vegetables, colourful flowers, artisan cheese, meat, fish, spices & much more.

When Marienplatz, became too small to function as Munich's main marketplace, King Maximilian I ordered it to be moved to a new & bigger location in the Square between Heiliggeist-Kirche & Frauenstrasse. The traditional Maypole, a historic way to inform illiterate visitors of the city's Trades & Crafts, is a popular meeting place, here.

There is always something going on in this world-famous Square – whether it is the Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market) the city’s Anniversary celebrations, Championship celebrations for FC Bayern or public gatherings for a variety of occasions.

A short walk away, stands another architectural icon - the Frauenkirche (Church of our Lady) biggest Church in the city with its distinctive twin green-domed Towers, considered a symbol of the Bavarian Capital city. Built on top of a Romanesque Church that dated back to the 12^th century, the enormous Gothic-style Cathedral was completed in 1488, with the Domes crowning its Towers, in 1525. Badly damaged by airstrikes in World War II, it has been gradually restored with several original stained-glass Windows, a collection of 14^th & 18^th century Artwork & now serves the seat of Archdiocese of Munich & Freising.

The ‘guided’ sightseeing concludes & you are transferred back to the Hotel.

Balance of the day free to relax or to continue exploring on your own (we will be happy to offer suggestions & / or make arrangements).

Below are some of the Attractions available in the city, for your information. Not all can be visited or included during the ‘guided’ sightseeing due to logistical reasons.  *Tour-guide’s discretion & available time will govern the Routing & what you see.

An iconic landmark synonymous with Munich is the legendary Hofbrauhaus Brewery which features one of the most famous & popular Beer Hall in the world. According to legend, Wilhelm V, Duke of Bavaria & a member of the Wittelsbach ruling family, found the Beer in Munich so bad that he commissioned his own state Brewery & Staatliches Hofbrauhaus was born. In 1589, it evolved in the Hofbrauhaus that we know & love today. And, after centuries of producing Beer for the Royals, in 1828, the Hofbrauhaus was opened to the public by King Ludwig I of Bavaria.

The Brewery's immense Beer Halls quickly became the centre of public & political life in Munich, counting famous names such as Mozart & Lenin amongst its regular customers. The Brewery's significant role as a meeting place for political figures led to it witnessing a number of important historic events. In 1919 the Munich Communist Government established their Headquarters in the Hofbrauhaus & in 1920 the Festsaal saw the first meeting of Hitler & the National Socialist Party.

Having been almost completely destroyed by World War II bombings in 1945, it underwent over a decade of restoration work, finally reopening in 1958. Today, more than 35,000 people visit Hofbrauhaus, making it one of Munich's main tourist attractions, especially during the annual celebration of Oktoberfest. Its fascinating history, elaborate traditional decor & of course - diverse & delicious Beers still brewed according to the Bavarian Purity Law make it a must-do experience during your visit.

For automobile aficionados, visiting the BMW Group Plant offers an interactive experience in all areas of automotive production of the brand's vehicles, from design to assembly. The 2 hour ‘guided’ tour of different sections of the factory, shows how different BMW Group vehicles are made throughout their engineering production processes.

Then, there is Schloss Nymphenburg, in the center of the city, the baroque summer Palace of the Bavarian Monarchs of the House of Wittelsbach, sprawling over large 200 hectares of elegant Gardens, with long green lawns, water features, a Lake, a Canal & home to a number of Pavilions ( mini Palaces). It used to be outside the city limits but now the Palace is within the northwestern part of the city. Germany’s largest city Palace contains 10 courtyards & offers 130 rooms for display. The Munich Residence served as the Seat of Government & residence of the Bavarian Dukes, Electors & Kings from 1508 to 1918. “Mad” King Ludwig II (who built the Neuschwanstein Castle, most famous icon of Germany) was born there.

Inside the Palace, the exquisite decoration & furnishings of the era have been well preserved & visitors can admire a Rococo-style Ballroom, the Queen's Bedroom complete with original sleigh bed on which Ludwig II was born & the Schonheitengalerie, home to a collection of portraits of beautiful women admired by Ludwig I. The Palace also has Marstallmuseum (or "Museum in the former Royal Stables"), home to an extensive exhibition of extravagant royal Coaches, one of the world's most extensive Collection. Upstairs on the 1^st floor, there is also one of the world's largest Collection of Porcelain.

So many more Options if you want to know.

Return to the hotel whenever you want & relax.

Balance of the day at leisure or perhaps opt for one of the many Options available (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 07.30 am & proceed for a 6 hour excursion to visit Berchtesgaden, a drop-dead-gorgeous corner of Bavaria.

Berchtesgaden is a typical traditional Alpine Resort village at the foot of 2713 metre high Mount Watzmann - Germany’s 2^nd highest mountain, in the Bavarian Alps on the Austrian border.

With a is fascinating history, Berchtesgaden is thought to have been settled in the Stone Age, according to the latest archaeological finds. But as with so many other alpine towns & villages, the first Settlement came with the establishment of a Religious Centre.

In this case, it was the Augustine Provostry of Berchtesgaden, founded in the 12^th century & raised to the status of an Imperial Abbey by the end of the century. A Provost was a mixture of religious & secular Titles, a little bit like the Prince-Bishops who ruled nearby Salzburg (but not as important). The leaders of the Berchtesgaden Provostry - the Prince Provosts - had a vote in the Assembly of the Holy Roman Empire.

The wealth from Forestry & from the local Salt Mine led to a rapid expansion of the Town & it was given rights to hold a Market - an important step in the Middle Ages where a Market guaranteed correct weights & measures & often its own legal tender. The religious-secular mini-State lasted through to the Napoleonic era, when it changed hands a number of times before eventually ending up as part of Bavaria.

Steeped in myths & legends, local lore has it that Angels given the task of distributing the Earth’s wonders were startled by God’s order to get a shift on & dropped them all here by accident.

The picturesque Town quickly became a favourite summer residence for the Bavarian Rulers - & thus for a wider public - partly because of the hunting opportunities in the surrounding Forests & partly because of the unspoilt mountain landscape of the Berchtesgaden Alps.  The small Town attracted Artists & Writers & Tourism boomed. The first Guesthouse was opened in 1877 & Berchtesgaden was connected to the Rail network with its own Train Station a few years later.

Tucked against the sheer walls of the Bavarian Alps, the gorgeous Village of 7,000, sits in an area called the Berchtesgadener Land, framed by 6 high-rise mountain ranges, a pocket of alpine terrain surrounded on 3 sides by Austria.

Berchtesgaden is one of Germany's most famous mountain Resorts - the spectacular alpine setting means that one of the country's National Parks is located just to the south of the town.

Below are some of the Attractions available in the city, for your information. Not all can be visited or included during the ‘guided’ sightseeing due to logistical reasons.  *Tour-guide’s discretion & available time will govern the Routing & what you see.

Much of the area is protected by law within the Berchtesgaden National Park, Germany's only Alpine Park opened in 1970, which was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1990.

The area around the Konigssee Lake & the Watzmann Mountain had been protected by earlier Projects but in the 1960s, the Plans were threatened by Proposals by the local Communities to build a Cable Car upto the Watzmann. The Park was implemented by the State of Bavaria & initially opposed by the locals. affected by it.

The National Park area is bounded by the buffer zone of the larger Berchtesgaden Alpine Park & covers an area of 210 km² in the Berchtesgadener Land.  There are 260 km of marked walking trails within the Park & ‘guided’ educational walks are offered to more than a million visitors each year. Berchtesgaden village is the obvious base for hiking circuits into the Park.

Away from the Trails, the area has a more sinister aspect is the mountaintop Retreat Eagle’s Nest, (or, as it is known in German, the Kehlsteinhaus) 1834 meters above sea level, built by the Reich & gifted to Adolf Hitler on his 50^th Birthday in 1939. It is now a major dark-tourism destination, a magnet for visitors since the end of the Second World War. (Admission included)

It took around 3000 workers a mere 2 years to carve the precipitous 6 km long road, including a 124 meters long Tunnel, that was blasted out of the mountainside, a brass-panelled Lift through the rock that whisked visitors from the Parking below to the top & to build the Lodge itself (now a Restaurant).

Although memories of the Second World War may be ebbing, a trip to the Fuehrer’s Mountain Lodge is an essential part of the Itinerary for Tourists coming to Munich, Berchtesgaden or nearby Salzburg.

Ironically, Hitler spent very little time at the Eagle's Nest since he did not enjoy heights, preferring to stay down in his Farmhouse in Obersalzberg. However, both during his rule & post-war, Eagle's Nest took on a symbolic weight, as a Command Center.

In the 1930s, the Fuehrer was looking for the perfect spot to establish an official mountain Retreat - a kind of Camp David. He chose the village of Obersalzberg, a dramatically scenic mountainside area a few miles uphill from Berchtesgaden. In 1933, the tranquil Settlement in essence became the 2^nd Seat of Nazi power after Berlin.

Hitler had first rented the once-modest Chalet & then bought & remodelled the alpine Farmhouse naming his new official Retreat it as "Berghof" - an ideal setting for crafting his public image.

Obersalzberg, in the Valley below, where Hitler originally stayed on his visits to the area, had become popular with the wealthier folks & Artists, towards the end of the 19^th century.

By the end of the 1930s, the original inhabitants had been bought out or pressured to move away & Obersalzberg village became the preserve of the high-ranking officials in the Nazi Government. Tourism boomed - up to 5000 people a day, travelled to Hitler's mountain home in the hope of catching a glimpse of their popular leader.

Hitler had famously credited its landscape - so steeped in legend & close to the soul of the German people - for inspiring him as he finished his manifesto, Mein Kampf, in a rented Obersalzberg Cabin in the 1920s. His love of this region established the notion that the native Austrian (Hitler) was truly German at heart.

Obersalzberg was ultimately, comprised of a compound of 80 buildings - fenced off from the public after 1936 & connected by extensive Bunkers - where the major decisions leading up to World War II were hatched. Hitler himself spent about a third of his time as Chancellor at the Berghof, hosted world leaders here & in the end, had it prepared for his last stand & he died here. It was heavily bombed, although the Tunnel network prevented many deaths & Eagle's Nest remained untouched, the Bombers had entirely missed the difficult-to-target Kehlsteinhaus. Though Berghof (the Farmhouse) & the entire Compound was razed to the ground.

But large sections of the fascinating vast Bunker system still remain. This professionally engineered underground town held Meeting Rooms, Offices, Archives & living quarters for Hitler - all connected by 4 miles of Tunnels cut through solid rock. It was looted & stripped bare by the Allied soldiers.  But there is enough left that visitors can wander around the concrete structure & marvel at the expertise.

In 1999, the Obersalzberg Dokumentation Center (not included – direct payment) was established to chronicle the region’s Nazi era, inside one of the Bunkers. (As it is designed primarily for the edification of German citizens, there is very little in English here, but an audio-guide app is available for English speakers.)

It does a fine job of explaining the history & offers a concise and powerful overview of Nazi regime. Various rooms document the forced takeover of the area, the construction of the Compound & the daily life of the Nazi elite. All facets of the Regime are dealt with, including Hitler’s near-mythical appeal, his Politics, the Resistance movement, Foreign Policy & the Death Camps.

As the region's historic Nazi ties have overshadowed its once-famed scenery, many visitors miss their chance to experience what made this corner of the Bavarian Alps legendary long before Hitler.

Another of the region’s attractions is Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden (Salt Mines). (not included – direct payment). For thousands of years, Salt has been one of the most important minerals in the world. The "white gold" wrote history, shaped cultures & is still considered a living elixir for the human body today. It has been an extremely valuable commodity, used for food preservation & as a trading commodity

The Berchtesgaden Salt Mine in the depths of the Alps, is the oldest in Germany active since 1517 & up to 1.000.000m3 of Brine are extracted annually.

The Mine has a fascinating history. In the 12^th century, a significant Salt deposit was discovered in the Bavarian Alps. Production first began on the Tuval near Schellenberg around 1193. A short time later, there is talk of Salt Mining on the Gollenbach in Berchtesgaden.

In 1517, Prince Provost Gregor Rainer founded the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine - the Petersberg Tunnel was struck. The Brine produced here was first sent to the Schellenberg Saltworks. In 1564, the Frauenreuth Saltworks in Berchtesgaden began operations. All these Mines worked in conjunction with each other. In the 16^th century, Miners worked under difficult conditions in the deep Tunnels of the mountain. Mining the Salt was a laborious & dangerous task, but it was worth it as Salt was invaluable at that time.

Berchtesgaden remained an independent realm until 1803. It finally came under Bavaria through the Vienna Final Act of 1815 & the Treaty of Munich in 1816.  Subsequently, all Saltworks we incorporated into the Royal General Mining & Saltworks Administration in Munich.

The Mine is a remarkable example of the long tradition of Salt Mining in Germany. The purest alpine Brine is still produced here to this day. This has significantly influenced the economic development of the region & the Mine in Berchtesgaden is considered one of the most important sights in Germany.

Over the centuries, the technology in the Berchtesgaden Mine continued to evolve. New methods were introduced to make Mining more efficient & safer. The use of machinery & modern equipment enabled an increase in productivity & led to further expansion of the Mine.

In 1816, the Royal Bavarian Saltworks Councillor Georg von Reichenbach was commissioned to plan & construct the Brine Pipeline from Berchtesgaden to Bad Reichenhall. At first, the Brine flowed in wooden "dikes" (wooden pipes) from Berchtesgaden to Bad Reichenhall.

The ingenious Designer used water column lifting machines to overcome a length of 29 km & significant differences in altitude. This machine - the Reichenbach Pump - is considered an ingenious innovation of its time & pumps the Brine 356 meters uphill. This Pipeline remained in operation continuously until February 19, 1927.

Today, one of the 14 ton bronze Pumps can be viewed in the Berchtesgaden Salzbergwerk & another is in the old Saltworks in Bad Reichenhall. The route of the old Pipeline can be seen on the beautiful hiking trail from Berchtesgaden to Ramsau.

In 1816, selected VIP visitors were allowed to come & see the Mine. In 1880, the doors were finally opened for the general public. After a comprehensive redesign & the associated transformation into one of the world's most innovative Salt Mining Experience Centers. The new Visitor Center was opened in 2007. Spherical sounds, unique light displays & a mystical atmosphere await you in the Magic Salt Room. An audio-visual production takes visitors back to times long past & offers insights into the lives of Miners - past & present. Around the Mine above ground, you will find photo points with life-size Miner figures (it is not allowed to take photographs inside the Mine).

The Mine is a modern adventure & a popular excursion destination in Bavaria. An impressive journey into the world of Salt awaits you in the depths of the mountain. The Mine Railway takes you deep into the mountain & offers an opportunity to travel comfortably & safely into the Tunnel to explore the impressive dimensions of life underground. At the end of the Tunnel, there is a view of the impressive Kaiser Franz Sinkwerk, which was filled to the ceiling with spring water over 150 years ago.

In 1628, the Ferdinandstollen Tunnel was struck to begin extracting Salt. At that time, everything was done manually & it was a huge achievement to make about 6 cm of progress every day. It took around 30 years to completely finish the 650 meters long Tunnel. Over time, the Tunnel was renovated several times, partially lined with bricks & provided with tracks to facilitate the transport of materials & Salt. These advances laid the foundation for the introduction of a Rail line inside the Mine.

When it was first opened for Visitors, the route into the mountain was on foot. In 1911, a Funicular holding 24 people per train was put into operation & lasted for 85 years. In 1996, the Funicular was replaced by more modern diesel Locomotives. From 2003 onwards, these Locomotives began to be replaced by more environmentally friendly, electrically powered Trains which today, transports 50 people per entry, 650 metres into the depth of the Mine, passing by mysteriously glowing salt grottoes & a spectacle of glittering salt crystals.  The journey lasts for 5 minutes, coming out the other end at Kaiser-Franz-Sinkwerk, where you cross a 100 meter long sub-terranean Spiegelsee (Salt Lake), 130 meters underground, on a wooden Raft. Those wanting to experience more, can slide down many meters on the spectacular Slide while ‘real’ Miners work nearby.  

And finally, there is the pristine wonderfully picturesque, emerald-green Konigssee, perhaps Germany’s most photogenic body of water, besides bustling lakeside tourist village of Schonau, that makes for some unforgettable memories & photo opportunities.

Germany’s highest lake, 603 meter above sea level, with drinkably pure waters shimmering into fjordlike depths, is cradled by steep mountain walls, 5 km south of Berchtesgaden. A boat ride along the sheer rock faces of Konigssee, the jewel among Berchtesgaden lakes, makes for a special experience.

You will have time to embark on an electric Boat cruise (not included - direct payment) from Schonau to St Bartholoma, a lovely quaint Chapel, world-renowned for its wine-red onion Domes, on the western shore. At some point during the crossing, the Captain will stop the Boat while he plays a Horn or a Trumpet to lure out the world-famous Konigssee Echo from the steep rock face & you will notice the sound bouncing back exactly 7 times. If time (& Tour-guide permits) an easy hike of about an hour leads from St Bartholoma to the overwhelming beautiful Eiskapelle (Ice Chapel), probably the most accessible glacier cave at the foot of the Watzmann mountain. But it is also extremely dangerous & though allowed, not advisable at all to get too close & to always stay at a safe distance from the ice!

You may even rent a Paddleboat & enjoy the National Park's nature in peace & quiet, away from the commercial Boat traffic.

And finally, the excursion ends & you are transferred back to the Hotel by late afternoon.

Balance of the day is at leisure for Optional activities or to explore independently (we will be happy to offer suggestions & / or make arrangements).

Early morning, depart for Nuremberg.

Enroute, stop at picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber, in northern Bavaria, one of the oldest & most beautiful cities, known for its medieval architecture, along the Romantic Road.

A true medieval gem Rothenburg ob der Tauber (meaning ‘above the Tauber River’), is a top tourist stop along the Franconian heartland.

With its web of half-timbered higgledy-piggledy houses lining the cobblestone lanes of its old town, it is the archetypal fairy-tale ancient Germany. The town Walls include many preserved Gate- houses & Towers, plus a covered Walkway on top.

Urban conservation orders here are the strictest in Germany - & at times it feels like a medieval Theme Park - but all is forgiven in the evenings, when the Lamplight casts its spell long after the last tour buses have left.

By the way, there are several "Rothenburgs" in Germany & there are many contenders for the moniker of a ’fairy-tale’ town (such as Michelstadt, Miltenberg, Bamberg, Bad Windsheim & Dinkelsbuhl), but none holds a candle to the medieval picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

When you enter Rothenburg ob der Tauber you feel like you are taking one 500 year step back. That is because of the magic atmosphere of the Castle ruins, the Towers, the timber-frame Houses which much resemble those of fairy tales, so much so that always Walt Disney was inspired by them for the Pinocchio cartoon.

The central Square is magnificent, with its Fountain wherein the beautiful surrounding buildings are reflected, as well as the Shop next to it where the magic of Christmas is alive all through the year.

In the Middle Ages, when Berlin & Munich were just wide spots in the road, Rothenburg was Germany's 2^nd largest city, with a whopping population of 6,000. Today, it is the country's most exciting medieval town, enjoying tremendous popularity with Tourists without losing its charm. There is a thousand years of history packed between the cobblestone lanes of its old town.

To see the rural countryside - Old Mills, Apple trees, Chickens & to hear the birds & smell the cows, take a short walk or rent a bike into the Tauber Valley. A Trail leads downhill from the idyllic Castle Gardens to a cute, skinny, 600 year old "Castle-ette," (a replica mini Castle), the summer home of the town's Mayor in the 15^th century. While called a Castle, it is a 4 story House.

From the Mayor's Getaway, the Trail continues downstream along the trout-filled Tauber River to the sleepy village of Detwang which is older than Rothenburg & has a Church with another impressive Riemenschneider designed Altarpiece.

After dark, in the deserted moonlit streets, the sounds of the Thirty Years' War still echo through Turrets & Clock Towers. Well before the sun sets, visitors can climb the Town Hall Tower or stroll atop the 1.5 mile medieval Wall to enjoy the best view of the town & surrounding countryside.

Fans of crime novels & dramas are sure to enjoy the Medieval Crime Museum, as it looks back at the evolution of the German & European judicial system over time. There are some fascinating artefacts on display too - diabolical instruments of punishment & torture. The Museum is a Legal Repository, currently home to some 50,000 items relating to the history of Law in Germany & Europe, over the past 1,000 years, making it one of the most significant Museums dedicated to the Law in the whole country.

Visitors can follow the evolution of the European Judicial System from the high Middle Ages to the 19^th century. A number of themes relating to the history of the Judicial System are covered, including Robbers, Commerce & Craft, Trades, Women, Children & Animals. Even Martin Luther's relationship with Witches is put under the spotlight.

Displays shed light on medieval criminal proceedings, featuring instruments of torture & tools used for execution & corporal punishment alongside a number of drawings. The Civil Policy Orders reveal how even the most private spheres of people's lives were controlled by regulations on Clothing, Marriage & Baptism. All explanations are in English. Some visitors may react with horror, others wish for a Gift Shop.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber lies on the Pilgrim trail since the Middle Ages, to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, site of the remains of St. James (Jakob). The Town’s St. Jakobskirche (St. Jacob’s Church) built between the 14^th & 15^th centuries, is a Lutheran place of worship.

Throughout the Middle Ages, the Church’s big draw was the Reliquary of the Holy Blood, a glass vial in a rock-crystal capsule said to contain 3 drops of the blood of Jesus Christ.  Pilgrims come to see the Altar of the Holy Blood by crafted by Wurzburg Sculptor Tilman Riemenschneider, considered the Michelangelo of the local Woodcarvers.

Tilman crafted the Altar in intricately carved wood to house the Shrine. The center panel depicts the Last Supper, with Christ & the Disciples set against background arches that mimic the windows of this Church. The figures are touchingly human, right down to the veined feet.

You will notice Riemenschneider adds a twist: Judas, not Christ, sits at the center of the Table, suggesting that God is willing to shed his grace even on Sinners. It is easy to miss the Apostle John, as he rests beneath the rest of the grouping, asleep with his head in the lap of Christ, the great giver of comfort.

The so-called Twelve Apostles Altar also depicts the Disciples, among many scenes on its colorful Panels, but most riveting is a scenario of the body of St. James being carried into Rothenberg, with the Rathaus in the background - the oldest known rendering of the City.

At the apex of the vaulted Ceiling of the Choir, that draws the eye up toward heaven, notice a deliberate imperfection in the stones, which was done as a symbol of faith - the last stone veers slightly to the left, just as the head of Christ leaned toward the left as he hung on the Cross. Color-saturated medieval stained glass depicts Biblical scenes, including one with a local twist - on the right side of the choir is a scene of the Israelites in the desert, with Angels throwing them not manna but pretzels.

The Church infused with mellow light from its original stained glass, with soaring Spires is a must-see art treasure. For a closer view of this realistic depiction of Bible scenes, Germany's greatest piece of woodcarving, climb the stairs behind the Organ.

Rothenburg is one of Germany's best Shopping towns. Lovely Prints, Carvings, Wine Goblets, Christmas-tree Ornaments & Beer Steins are popular. If you are glad Christmas comes but once every 365 days, then stay well clear of the Kathe Wohlfahrt Weihnachtsdorf, a Yuletide Superstore that also houses an excellent little Christmas Museum upstairs. See the Tree decorations through the ages, Christmas-tree Stands, mini-Trees sent in boxes to WWI soldiers at the Front, early Advent Calendars & old-time Christmas Cards, all thoughtfully arranged & described. This repository of all things 'Ho! Ho! Ho!' traces the development of various Christmas customs & decorations and includes a display of 150 Santa figures, plus lots of retro baubles & tinsel - particularly surreal in mid-July when the mercury outside is pushing 30°C.

Walk through this historic old Town, with its romantic Alleyways & picturesque Squares offering an overview of the various aspects & epochs of the history of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Sightseeing tour of this lovely medieval town will conclude with a Schneeballen (snow ball) Tasting, a Pastry considered to be the signature dish of Rothenburg. 

Hop on the vehicle & continue driving for Nuremberg, famous for its historical landmarks & of course, a good place to learn about Nazi Germany.

On arrival, Check-in at the Hotel.

When people think of Nuremberg, they usually think of Gingerbread, Toys, Christmas, the Nazi Party Rally Grounds or the Nuremberg Trials. Bavaria’s 2^nd largest city after Munich & the unofficial Capital of Franconia, is an energetic place where the Nightlife is intense & the Beer is as dark as Coffee. As one of Bavaria’s biggest draws it is alive with visitors year-round, but especially during the spectacular Christmas Market.

The Sigena Urkunde, a Deed published in 1050 by Emperor Henry III, contains the 1^st documented reference to Nuremberg & its appointment as an Imperial City put it under direct control of the Emperor, thus enjoying a number of privileges. The Letter of Freedom granted by Emperor Friedrich II in 1219 strengthened the civic autonomy of the City, removing it almost entirely from the purview of the Burgraves. By the end of the Hohenstaufen period in 1254, it had become an independent imperial City.

With its close connection to Royalty, its location at the junction of important Highways & its unusual affinity with the Crafts, Nuremberg soon developed to become an important transit Trade & Export Centre & a Financial Marketplace in the Middle Ages.

For centuries, Nuremberg was the undeclared Capital of the Holy Roman Empire & the preferred residence of most German Kings, who kept their crown jewels here. Rich & stuffed with architectural wonders, it was also a magnet for famous Scholars & Artists, though the most famous of all, Albrecht Durer, was actually born here. ‘Nuremberg shines throughout Germany like a sun among the moon & stars’ gushed Martin Luther. By 19^th century, the City had become a powerhouse in Germany’s Industrial Revolution.

In more recent times, Nuremberg gained a less favourable reputation for itself during the National Socialist era. Even today, parts of the city are still home to gigantic ruins representing the Nazi Regime’s deluded notion of grandeur. The Nazis saw a perfect stage for their activities in working class Nuremberg. It was here that the fanatical Party Rallies were held, the boycott of Jewish businesses began & the infamous Nuremberg Laws outlawing German citizenship for Jewish people were enacted. After WWII, the City was chosen as the site of the War Crimes Tribunal, now known as the Nuremberg Trials.

On 2 January 1945, Allied Bombers reduced the city to landfill, killing 6000 people in the process. After the city was virtually razed to the ground, the decision was made to start rebuilding the historical Old Town to re-enact its original glory.  Later, the painstaking reconstruction - using the original stone - of almost all the City’s main buildings, including the Castle surrounded by red-roofed buildings & old Churches in the Altstadt, returned the city to some of its former glory.

Nuremberg is distinguished by medieval architecture such as the fortifications & stone towers of its Altstadt (Old Town), the epitome of medieval charm. The Old Town probably comes closest to many Tourists' expectations of a typical German city: on the one hand one can find half-timbered Houses, spectacular gothic Churches within a medieval city Wall in the shadow of the towering mighty imperial Kaiserburg Castle, which was one of the most important residences of the Emperors of the Holy Roman Empire.

The Castle is a group of medieval fortified buildings on a sandstone ridge dominating the historical center of Nuremberg. The Castle, together with the city Walls, is considered to be one of Europe's most formidable medieval fortifications. It represented the power & importance of the Holy Roman Empire & the outstanding role of the Imperial City.

On the other hand, Nuremberg & the surrounding cities are home to many well-known iconic Companies, e.g. Adidas, Diehl, Faber-Castell, Playmobil, Puma & several divisions of industrial giant Siemens. Finally, Nuremberg even can live up to Culinary expectations with Breweries & Beergartens and its most famous dish, Sausages with Sauerkraut.

At the northern edge of the Altstadt, one of Germany’s largest pedestrian areas, the Hauptmarkt (traditional central Square) contains the Schoner Brunnen, the gilded “beautiful Fountain” with tiers of figures & Frauenkirche, a 14^th century gothic Church. Once you have experienced the city’s enchanting historical ambience, you will never forget. Nuremberg is more than just a melting pot of cultural highlights.

Later in the afternoon around 02.00 pm, meet the Tour-guide & proceed for a 3 hour sightseeing tour of the city.

Walk around the ancient Altstadt & learn more about its impressive history. Nuremberg's historical Center quickly with its quaint character & picture postcard worthy scenery, enthralls visitors.

Below are some of the Attractions available in the city, for your information. Not all can be visited or included during the ‘guided’ sightseeing due to logistical reasons.  *Tour-guide’s discretion & available time will govern the Routing & what you see.

Dominating the city skyline, is the Kaiserburg Castle. This enormous Complex towering above the Altstadt poignantly reflects Nuremberg's medieval might. Court Assemblies & Imperial Diets were held here & in 1356, Emperor Charles IV "Golden Bull" named Nuremberg as the place where every newly elected Ruler had to hold his first Imperial Diet. The City, thus became one of the centres of the Empire - in addition to Frankfurt where the Kings were elected & Aachen, where they were crowned. In order to provide an appropriate setting for these Events, the Hohenstaufens built an extended Complex on the rocky elevation over the remains of older buildings which are still largely what we see today. To administer the imperial property & maintain order, the Emperor installed a Burgrave, who resided in the front area of the Complex (the so-called Burgrave’s Castle). In 1191, the Office of Burgrave passed to the Counts of Zollern.

The Castle & town were a favourite stopping place for Rulers on their journeys through the Realm. Most Emperors paid numerous visits: Ludwig IV "the Bavarian" stayed there 74 times & Charles IV 52 times. The Habsburgs Friedrich III & his son Maximilian I were the last Emperors to reside for longer periods in the Castle.

During the time of the Holy Roman Empire, the Castle was occasionally home to each of the Emperor & in the Middle Ages, it was one of the most important royal Palaces. The main attractions here include the Palace with the Emperor’s living quarters, the lavish Knights' & Imperial Hall, the Romanesque double Chapel & an exhibit on the inner workings of the Holy Roman Empire. Elsewhere, enjoy panoramic views from the Sinwell Tower or peer 48 meters down into the Deep Well.

In 1945, practically the entire Castle lay in ruins, but important Romanesque & late Gothic sections survived virtually unscathed. Immediately after the war, Rudolf Esterer rebuilt the Complex almost exactly as it had before the war on the principle of "creative conservation".

The permanent Exhibition in the new Kaiserburg Museum, was redesigned by the Bavarian Palace Administration together with the Nuremberg Museums in 2013. The new concept shows not only clear explanations of the elements & function of the Castle in their historical context, focusing on its military & building history. It also presents information about the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation & the role of Nuremberg in the late Middle Ages.

The neighbouring small Garden named for the famous Artist, Naturalist, Entomologist Maria Sibylla Merian, is a must-see too, a welcome contrast to the hustle & bustle of the city & very popular with residents too. Encircled by the Castle walls, you can enjoy scented shrubs, ornamental plants & various herbs during the warm months.

At the northern edge of the Altstadt, one of Germany’s largest pedestrian areas, the bustling Hauptmarkt (traditional central Square) is surrounded by a multitude of must-see sights.

It is the site of daily Markets with colourful Stands selling fresh fruit & vegetables, bright flowers, spices, regional & international specialities, crispy bread & other treats. Visitors can have a chat with the Sellers manning the Stalls & enjoy the mediaeval flair of the centuries old Square.

The Hauptmarkt & Schoner Brunnen. The one is inconceivable without the other & this has been the case since the reign of Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV in 14^th century. It was he who in 1349 presided over a cruel Pogrom against the Jews, putting an end to the old Jewish Quarter. At the same time, however, he was also the builder of Frauenkirche, a 14^th century gothic Church which today in all its beauty defines the Hauptmarkt & was also the initiator of the unique Schoner Brunnen, the gilded “beautiful Fountain”.

The eastern side of the Square is characterised by the facade of Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) constructed as an imperial Chapel. An example of brick Gothic architecture, the Church contains many Sculptures, some of them heavily restored.

Standing like a space probe on the northwestern corner of the Square is a sculpture festooned 19 meters high gothic Spire shaped Fountain named Schoner Brunnen.

The original, built in late 14^th century, shortly after the development of Hauptmarkt & the Frauenkirche, with badly eroded sandstone figures, is now displayed in Germanisches Nationalmuseum in Nuremberg. During the Second World War, the Fountain survived intact, protected inside a concrete casing.

Legend suggests the Spire was originally intended to perch atop Frauenkirche located on the eastern side of the Square but upon further consideration, it was decided to be a waste to put such a beautiful work of art where it would be so difficult to view.

The octagonal Fountain Pyramid, framed in gold & the heraldic colors of the Middle Ages (red & blue), imitates the shape of a gothic octagonal Church Tower.

The entire equipment of the sacral-Gothic high architecture is repeated on the body of this Fountain: with Buttresses, Pinnacles & Candle Arches, Tracery Parapets, Eyelashes & figure Canopies. The slender helmet tip, crowned with a finial, shows the basic floral motif with the Crabs, which can also be found on every gothic Church.

The more likely theory is that city leaders commissioned the Artwork to celebrate an existing Fountain built between 1389 & 1396, which delivered clean water to the city, channelled through 4 km of wooden pipes. The building is one of the oldest Tube Wells in the city & has had its own water supply since it was built.

The ornate Fountain in its present form is a copy of the original, made around 100 years ago. The main attraction of the Fountain is without a doubt, the 2 rotating shimmering Rings, mysteriously inserted without a seam on opposite sides, into the surrounding outer Fence, which are the focus of much attention. It is said that the Railing with the famous seamless Ring that can be turned, was crafted by a Blacksmith’s apprentice in 1587 in order to win the hand of his master’s daughter & has been replaced several times. A legend says that if you turn the “golden ring” & make a wish, it will come true. The black ring, meanwhile, is said to bless women with children. You can often observe people turning the Ring on the Fence.

4 rows of 40 colorful stone figures adorn the Fountain representing the world-view of the Holy Roman Empire. The Statues depict historical figures from Moses to Church Fathers & even King Arthur.

The figures, some placed freely on Pillars, some integrated into the architecture of the Fountain, are without exception smaller than life size. The figures from 1902 to 1903 are replicas of originals from the Parlier School from the late 14^th century. Based on the model of the medieval figure set, the current replicas are gilded & colored in the prominent places.

In the highest echelon, standing above all worldly things, are the 7 major Biblical Prophets, with Moses holding his Stone Tablets & looking across the Square at the Church of our Lady. Below him, there are 7 Electoral Princes of the Holy Roman Empire, as well as 3 Jewish, 3 Christian & 3 ancient heroes including Charlemagne, King Arthur, David, Hector of Troy & Caesar.

With grotesque & twisted features, the enemies of Nuremberg are also represented, such as the Highwayman Eppelein from Gailingen.

In the bottom row, the smaller figures include Pythagoras, Cicero, Socrates representing Philosophy & the 7 Arts of the Middle Ages. Behind each, is 1 of the 4 Evangelists or 1 of the 4 Church Fathers. They are, so to speak, monitoring whether or not the Sciences are holding to the teachings of the Church. 

Among all those influential & honoured figures of the world who were important during the Holy Roman Empire, there is one notable absence - the Pope himself. This could be supposedly due to the problematic relations between the Emperor & the Pope at the time. It may also have been influenced by the “Schism of 1378” in the Catholic Church & which led to a period lasting until 1417 when there were 2 rival Popes, one in Avignon & one in Rome. The dispute ended with the abdication of Pope Gregory XII in 1415, this was the last papal resignation until Pope Benedict XVI in 2013.

“Mannleinlaufen” in the western gable of the Frauenkirche, is one of the most popular attractions that Nuremberg has to offer - a daily event not to be missed!

Every day at noon, visitors can watch the famous "Mannleinlaufen" (Little Men Dancing) - 7 mechanical copper figures step out of the doors of the huge mechanical Art Clock.

For 700 years, the large Music Box tableau in the Frauenkirche has been a reminder of the time when Emperor Charles IV introduced rules for the Election of the Roman-German King with the "Golden Bull" in the 14^th century.

Now, employees of the city's Cultural Office have introduced a new twist. At lunchtime, instead of the mechanical copper figures, guest participants take on the role of either Charles IV or one of the 7 Electors. 7 Princes, 1 Emperor.

After the ringing of the Church bells & the prelude of the Trumpeters, Drummers & Pipers, the doors open & the 7 Electors circle around Emperor Charles IV who is sitting in the middle, on a Stage at the foot of the Frauenkirche. Each daily spectacular 5 minute episode is photographed & filmed.

Another point to see is the Historischer Kunstbunker, a climate-controlled Bomb Shelter deep under the Burgberg, that was used to protect Art treasures during WWII. Priceless masterpieces by Albrecht Durer, Sculptor Veit Stoss & Martin Behaim, the Inventor of a bafflingly accurate 15^th century Globe, were kept safe here from the Allied bombs raining down on the city. The Bunker was created by joining old Beer Cellars long before the war began.

The Albrecht-Durer Haus is one of the most famous Museum & Exhibition in Nuremberg. Albrecht Durer (1471 - 1528), Germany's most famous Renaissance Draughtsperson & Artist, lived & worked in this massive 4 storey half-timbered House for nearly 20 years, from 1509 onwards. Today, the building is both a Memorial & a Museum. This is not only one of the few surviving burgher houses from the City’s Golden Age, but even more significantly, it is the only surviving 15^th century Artist's house in Northern Europe.

Today, its rooms feature period furnishings & convey an authentic atmosphere of its era & also reflect the House's history since 1828 as Germany's first Artist's Memorial site. The top floor showcases valuable copies of the Artist’s works & also a variety of temporary Exhibitions presenting items from the abundant holdings of the city's Art Collections, original Works from others.

Visitors can see a demonstration of the historical Printing techniques & procedure used by Durer himself, in one of the Rooms. Several times a day, the large Relief Printing Press especially designed with copper plate engraving for the printing of Woodcuts, is shown in action. It was reconstructed on the basis of a Durer drawing in 1971 (designated as "Durer Year"). Visitors may lend a hand in the printing process & may even take home one of the fresh Prints with Durer motifs.

Opposite, in a larger Room with mild north-easterly light flooding in, there is a Painting workshop where visitors may see how a Panel Painting is created & learn about the preparation & origins of the pigments used. There is a Gallery featuring copies & originals of Durer’s work.

A special feature of the Tour here is the Tour-guide who offers a realistic account of what life was like 500 years ago. An Actress portraying Agnes Durer, the wife of the great Artist, dressed in a period Costume, complete with the house mistress' Bonnet & a large key-ring fixed to her Apron, welcomes the visitors at the Entrance & guides them through her house, regaling them with "inside” stories. Interested visitors may find out quite a bit about life & work in an Artist's household, about Agnes' work in Kitchen, Printing & Painting Rooms, about the illustrious Guests who visited & about (sometimes less than) industrious Apprentices, about Agnes’ dealing with money & her (not always easy) relationship with Albrecht Durer.

The Friedhof St. Johannis is one of Europe’s most important Cemeteries. A very beautiful place, it is also known as the “Cemetery of Roses” as a result of the many roses that grow on the site.

It was initially created in 1234 for St. Johannis Leper House linked to Gothic St. John's Church, as a result of the advanced Council order, because Lepers were not allowed to be buried within the city walls.  The Lepers were able to get to the Church service through a wooden corridor without coming into contact with healthy people. 

After the consecration of the Choir & Nave in 1377 & 1395 respectively, the Sacristy of St. John's Church was the last major construction phase in 1446. Inside, the main Altar, the Sacrament House made of sandstone as well as Tombstones significant in terms of cultural history & artistically valuable bronze Epitaphs are worth seeing. The Holzschuher Chapel by Hans Behaim, the Elder are historically significant.

The world-famous St. Johannisfriedhof, voted the most beautiful Cemetery in Germany in 2013, is an enchanting place especially, when the roses are in bloom. Between flower-decorated bronze Gravestones, walk past the graves of many Nuremberg notables like Albrecht Durer, Veit Stoss, Ludwig Feuerbach & other famous residents. 

Spanning prehistory to the early 20^th century, Germanisches Nationalmuseum is the largest & most important Museum of German Art & Teutonic Culture. Since its founding in 1852, the Museum has advanced to be one of the largest Repository of Cultural History in the German-speaking world.

With 1.3 million objects, it offers ever new discoveries, even for those who come more often to stroll through cultural history, starting with the Pre & Protohistory Section, ranging all the way to the present.

The Exhibitions take you on an exciting journey through time, showcasing hand axes from the Stone Age, the Ezelsdorf Golden Cone, medieval Sculptures, the world's oldest terrestrial Globe, first Pocket Watch in the world, 20^th century Design classics, baroque Dollhouses as well as the largest Collection of historical Musical instruments in Europe & Artworks from pre-historic times until today. With 350,000 Sheets, it has one of the largest Collections of historical Graphics in Europe.

Other rooms feature Textiles, Clothes, Jewellery, stained Glass, Handicraft & Toys, Furniture, Archaeological Collection, Arms & Armour, scientific Instruments & much more. The GNM is also home to the largest Library of German culture, with more than 650,000 Books. Nuremberg's former Carthusian Monastery is contained within the Museum Complex.

It features baroque masterpieces & contemporary Art by German Painters & Sculptors. Highlights of the eclectic collection include works of Veit Stoss, Rembrandt & Durer's anatomically detailed “Hercules Slaying the Stymphalian Birds” Painting.  

Next to the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, is a spectacular Artwork designed by Israeli Artist Dani Karavan, after he won the Competition to design a new look of the Street in the early 1990s. Especially relevant in today's Europe, he designed & placed 30 austere, 8 meter tall concrete Columns in a single line along the entire length of Kartausergasse, each bearing 1 Article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in a different language (plus German) & named it Way of Human Rights.

Nuremberg’s oldest city Parish Sebalduskirche (St. Sebald's Church) located underneath Kaiserburg Castle, dates back to approx. the year 1215.

Constructed with rusty pink-veined sandstone, its exterior is replete with religious sculptures & symbols. Inside, the Church contains important works of Art such as the imposing 4.17 meter high bronze Shrine of St Sebaldus (Nuremberg's own patron Saint) & his bones are presumed to rest here in the silver embossed “casket”. The Tomb, a Gothic & Renaissance masterpiece, took its maker, Peter Vischer, the Elder & his 2 sons, more than 11 years to complete.

With a 3 aisled late Romanesque pillared Basilica with 2 Choirs. As early as 1309, the original side Aisles were widened & altered in the Gothic style. Check out the ornate carvings over the Bridal Doorway to the north, showing the Wise & Foolish Virgins. The famous Nuremberg Painter Albrecht Durer was baptized & got married there.

Destroyed during World War II, like the rest of the city, St. Sebald was reconstructed & reconsecrated in 1957. St. Sebald has a valuable collection of Art, including many pre-Reformation treasures. Together with St. Lorenz & the Church of Our Lady one of the 3 most important Churches in Nuremberg.

The sightseeing ends & you are transferred back to the Hotel.

Balance of the day free for independent explorations or Optional activities (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make any arrangements).

Today, visit the Nazi Party Rally Ground. Meet the Tour-guide & embark on a 2 hour tour of the Complex, a short drive away.  

If any one has ever wondered where the infamous B&W images of ecstatic Nazi supporters hailing their Fuhrer were taken, it was here in Nuremberg. Much of the grounds were destroyed during Allied bombing raids, but enough remain to get a sense of the megalomania behind it.

Even today, the 11 km² Complex of the former Reichsparteitagsgelande (Nazi Party Rally Grounds) (Admission included) in the south of the city, is home to gigantic ruins, significant examples of Nazi architecture, representing the Regime’s deluded notion of grandeur & from where the Nazi Party orchestrated its propaganda campaign. From 1933 to 1938 the National Socialists held their Rallies here & the remains of the large buildings bear witness to the staging of these grandiose Shows. There are boards providing explanations about the history of each location.

In the north wing of the partly finished Kongresshalle (Congress Hall), designed to hold 50,000 people, the excellent Dokumentationszentrum (Documentation Centre) examines various historical aspects, including the rise of the NSDAP, the Hitler Cult, the massive Rallies & the Nuremberg Trials. It is being remodeled & the renovation is expected to last until 2025.

In the meantime, the old permanent Exhibition “Faszination und Gewalt” (“Fascination & Terror”) chronicling the Causes, Relationships & Consequences of the Nazi Dictatorship, has been replaced by interim Exhibitions housed in the 1300 m² Hall. The current interim Exhibition "Nuremberg - Site of the Nazi Party Rallies. Staging, Experience & Violence" provides a comprehensive picture of the Rallies from 1918 to the present for the first time from a local historical perspective. 

Selected objects are the focus of the Exhibition & open up new perspectives on the topic. For example, a Beer Mug from the Nazi Rally or the People's Radio Receiver type VE 301 GW testify to the way in which the National Socialists were able to make the massive, sometimes million + people, Rallies & other Events tangible logistically. Other Artefacts provide small insights into the living conditions of Prisoners of War & forced Laborers in Nuremberg & the surrounding area during the War. Selected objects contribute to the collage-like image, as do Documents, Films & Photos. 

Numerous Biographies & contemporary Witness Reports provide personal perspectives on the topic. What is known stands next to what is new; changing perspectives & explanation builds on existing knowledge. Media Stations emphasize the diversity of voices & invite visitors to form their own picture of history.

East of here is the Zeppelinfeld, where most of the big Nazi Parades & Rallies & Events took place. Visitors can stand on the 350 metres long Grandstand / Balcony named Zeppelintribune, from where Hitler extolled the masses. It now hosts Sporting events & Rock Concerts, though this particular rehabilitation has caused controversy. The grounds are bisected by the 2 km long & 40 meters wide Grosse Strasse (Great Road), which was used for Military Parades.

Once the ongoing renovation are completed, the Nazi Party Rally Grounds will be at the center in terms of space & content. A large-format media Installation “Topography in Transition” takes visitors on a journey through time from 1918 to today & provides an initial orientation with a kaleidoscope of images & plans. The 4 subject periods cover the date-ranges of 1918-1933, 1933-1939, 1939-1945 & 1945-2020. The story is told through the local perspective for the first time & provides information about the construction history of the Complex. 

The Tour concludes & you are transferred back to the Hotel.

Balance of the day is at leisure for Optional activities or independent exploration (we will be happy to offer suggestions & / or make arrangements).

Morning, depart for Frankfurt, driving along the Romantic Route.

Enroute, stop at Wurzberg. denoted as the northern terminus of the Romantic Road, one of most scenic route in the country.

For Germans, the south begins at Wurzburg, a lovely city known for its lavish baroque & rococo architecture, in Bavaria region, at the northern end of the Romantic Road.

Founded in the 10^th century, Wurzburg served as the home of powerful Prince-Bishops for many centuries.  It was the center of the Kingdom known as Franconia. In 19^th century, Napoleon merged Franconia with Bavaria & it remains so till this day.

Wurzburg was the Capital of the Grand Duchy of Wurzburg under Ferdinand III until 1814. It was then part of the territories in Franconia that were granted to the Kingdom of Bavaria by the Congress of Vienna in compensation for the loss of Tyrol & that part of Palatinate that was east of the Rhine to Baden.

This University City & former royal seat gracefully straddling the banks of the Main River amid idyllic Vineyards, offers a vibrant atmosphere & an endearing charm, reason enough to visit. A large student population guarantees a lively scene & plenty of hip Nightlife pulsates through its cobbled streets.

On the night of March 16, 1945, Wurzburg was leveled during a 20 minute Allied bombing raid which destroyed 80% of its buildings.  A Plan to leave the city in ruin as a testimony to the horrors of war was scrapped & nearly every major structure has been restored & the modern city blends in harmoniously with medieval remains & reconstructions. Though not as painstakingly true to its original architecture as some other historic German communities.

Wurzburg has been home to a large US Military installment since the post-World War II reconstruction. As a result, most of the locals are familiar with American customs. Anyone eager to visit this town to study its historic architectural structures should be prepared to see its restored buildings placed next to several post-war modernistic houses.

Wurzburg is not picture book pretty, the way Rothenburg & some other towns on the Romantic Road are, but that doesn’t deviate from its appeal as there is plenty to see in a day.

Offering southern German flair & Franconian hospitality, unlike the quainter towns that line the Romantic Road to the south, Wurzburg is a cosmopolitan place, a University town with 50,000 students guarantees a lively scene, plenty of hip nightlife & life pulsates through its narrow cobbled lanes & bright Squares, lending it a German version of joie de vivre.

Wurzburg is a pleasant harmony of History, Art, Architecture, Culture & delicate Wines. The City’s appreciation of the good life becomes clear as soon as you notice the town is swathed in Vineyards that climb the surrounding hillsides above its gabled rooftops.

Bavaria may be a region famous for its Beer, but Wurzburg is the Capital of Frankisches Weinland (Franconian Wine Region) but Wine Merchants here sell the famous mineral-rich dry white & red Wines, especially from the Silvaner grape, in distinctive Bocksbeutels (the green, narrow-necked wine bottles with flattened round shapes) designed so Monks could hide them under their robes, it is home to numerous Wine Bars, Cellars & Wineries and also home to the oldest Pizzeria in Germany. Wurzburger Hofbrau Brewery also produces a well-known Pilsner Beer.  

Below are some of the Attractions available in the city, for your information. Not all can be visited or included during the ‘guided’ sightseeing due to logistical reasons.  *Tour-guide’s discretion & available time will govern the Routing & what you see.

Architectural masterpieces from various eras shape the cityscape. Particularly the 18^th century UNESCO World Heritage Residenz (Admission included), a Palace, with ornate rooms, the world’s largest fresco, a masterpiece by Venetian Artist Giovanni Battista Tiepolo depicting allegories of the 4 then-known Continents (Europe, Africa, America & Asia) & an elaborate zigzagging Treppenhaus (Staircase).

One of Germany's most important & finest baroque buildings, the vast structure was commissioned in 1720 by Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp Franz von Schonborn, who was unhappy with his old-fashioned digs up in Marienberg Fortress & took almost 60 years to complete. Built by 18^th century Architect Balthasar Neumann, today the 360 rooms are home to government Institutions, University faculties & A Museum, but the grandest 40 have been restored for visitors to admire. The State Gallery, a branch Gallery of the Bavarian State Painting Collections, is located in rooms 23 to 29. Works on display focus on the great centuries of Venetian painting.

Besides the Grand Staircase, feast your eyes on the ice-white stucco-adorned Weisser Saal (White Hall) before entering the Kaisersaal (Imperial Hall), canopied by yet another impressive Tiepolo fresco. Other stunners include the gilded stucco Spiegelkabinett (Mirror Hall), covered with a unique mirror-like glass painted with figural, floral & animal motifs.

In the South Wing, the Hofkirche (Court Church) is another architecturally stunning Neumann & Tiepolo co-production. Its elaborate furnishing, marble columns, gold leaf & profusion of Angels, in Frescos & Paintings, match the Residenz in splendour & proportions.

Entered via frilly wrought-iron gates, the Hofgarten (Court Garden) designed to include the Baroque-era ramparts, is a smooth blend of French & English-style landscaping teeming with numerous whimsical rococo sculptures of children, mostly by royal Sculptor Peter Wagner. Concerts, Festivals & special Events take place here during the warmer months.

The Complex also houses Collections of Antiques, Paintings & Drawings in the Martin von Wagner Museum & handily, a Winery in the atmospheric Cellar, the Staatlicher Hofkeller Wurzburg, that is open for ‘guided’ tours with Tasting (some of the Palace areas are only accessible with a ‘guided’ tour).

Another famous landmark is the highly unusual Cathedral Dom St Kilian. Even from afar, the 2 imposing Towers of St. Kilian Cathedral - 4^th largest Romanesque Church in Germany - point the way to the city.

The Cathedral has been altered many times over the centuries. The elaborate stucco work of the chancel contrasts starkly with the bare whitewash of the austere Romanesque nave that is capped with a ceiling that wouldn't look out of place in a 1960s Bus Station. The whole mishmash creates quite an impression & is possibly the oddest Cathedral interior in all of Germany. The Schonbornkapelle by Balthasar Neumann returns a little baroque order to things.

Another interesting monument here is Marienberg Fortress, a prominent Castle that dominates the skyline.  

Built on a hill overlooking the city, its construction was initiated around late 12^th century, by the local Prince-Bishops who governed here until 1719. Over the centuries, it was expanded & modified several times, including significant additions in the Renaissance & Baroque styles.

In addition to its historical & cultural significance, Marienberg Fortress also played a role in World War II. The Castle was heavily damaged during Allied bombing raids in 1945, but it was rebuilt in the years following the war. Dramatically illuminated at night, the structure was only penetrated once, by Swedish troops during the ‘Thirty Years' War, in 1631. Today, it stands as a symbol of Wurzburg’s resilience & enduring cultural heritage.

Today, the Fortress is a popular tourist attraction & serves as one of the city's fascinating Museum. Inside, the Furstenbaumuseum (closed November to mid-March) sheds light on its former Residents' opulent lifestyle. Visitors can tour the various Rooms & Exhibits, which include displays the Bishops of Wurzburg and the Art & Culture of the region.

The other Section, Mainfrankisches Museum presents displays on city history & houses the largest Collection of works by the famous late-Gothic master Woodcarver & Sculptor Tilman Riemenschneider & other famous local Artists. It also houses a scale model of the WWII bombing which starkly depicts the extent of the damage to the city following the night of 16 March 1945, when 1000 tons of explosives were dropped on the city & 5,000 citizens lost their lives in just 20 minutes.

The Fortress is a pleasant 25 minutes walk uphill through the Vineyards. Viewing it & reading the potted history of events before you climb up to the Castle overlooking the city, gives you an appreciation of Wurzburg’s astonishing recovery. Enjoy panoramic City & Vineyard views from the ramparts.

In a born-again historic Granary building with its modern architectural elements, located directly on the old Harbor, right on the Main River, there is an absorbing Museum im Kulturspeicher that offers an exciting ambience for the Art from the 19^th - 21^st centuries. Top-class works of art from Romanticism, Biedermeier, Impressionism & Expressionism are complemented by contemporary Art exhibits from 23 European countries. The Collection includes “Peter C. Ruppert - Concrete Art in Europe after 1945” & works by other Artists such as Max Bill, Gunter Fruhtrunk & Victor Vasarely, as well as fascinating Installations & Digital Art.

Another iconic land mark is the 16^th century Alte Mainbrucke (Old Main Bridge), a historic Bridge that spans the Main River.

Designed by the Italian architect Antonio Petrini, it replaced an earlier Wooden Bridge that had been destroyed by flooding. It is a combination of Gothic & Renaissance styles & features a series of Arches & Towers that make it an impressive sight.

The Bridge has played an important role in the history of Wurzburg. It was an important transport link between the city & the surrounding region, used for military purposes. During WWII, the Bridge was heavily damaged, but it was rebuilt & restored to its original appearance in the post-war period.

One of the most distinctive features of the Bridge is the row of Statues added in 18^th century, that line its sides. These Statues depict various Saints & historical figures, including Saint Kilian, the Patron Saint of the City & Julius Echter von Mespelbrunn, the Prince-Bishop who was instrumental in the construction of the Bridge.

Today, the Alte Mainbrucke is a popular attraction for visitors & offers stunning views of the city & surrounding countryside. The Bridge is also home to a number of Restaurants & Cafes where visitors can enjoy local cuisine & drinks while taking in the views.

In the middle of Altstadt (Old Town), the Dome of Neumunster Church rises in the immediate vicinity of St. Kilian's Cathedral.

This symmetrical Church has a decisive influence on the Wurzburg cityscape. Romanesque at its core, it was given a thorough baroque restyle by the Zimmermann brothers & is typical of their work. It stands on the site where 3 ill-fated Irish Missionaries - itinerant Preachers Kilian, Kolonat & Totnan, tried to convert Duke Gosbert to Christianity in 686 met their maker.

Here, the believers in the Diocese of Wurzburg commemorate their first ‘messengers of faith’ at the current location of the Church. The interior has busts of the 3 Martyrs on the high Altar & to this day, they are particularly venerated here & in the neighboring Cathedral as “Franconian Apostles” & are the diocesan Pastors of the Wurzburg Diocese.

Neumunster Church is primarily a place of worship. Although, they allow ‘guided’ tours, visitors are requested to preserve the special atmosphere of the place & stay quiet.

Many more Options but you do not have the time today.

Spend an hour or 2 & continue driving for Frankfurt. stopping at yet another popular tourist attraction in the village of Mespelbrunn,

The foundation of the villages Hessenthal & Neudorf (after 1939: Mespelbrunn) was the result of collaborative settlement activities in the Spessart region by the Archbishops of Mainz & the Counts of Rieneck, respectively. In the Middle Ages, the Villages were located on the juncture of two important long distance Trade Routes, the Via Publica through the Spessart.

The west-east route from Aschaffenburg to Wurzburg gained in importance in the 18^th century, resulting in the establishment by Mainz, of a fortified road & an overland Mail station at Hessenthal. In 1854, the Ludwig Western Railway was built, shifting transit traffic to the railway.

The Inn that served as Mail Station (Zur Post) was visited in 1826 by Wilhelm Hauff & is one of several possible inspirations for the inn in his novella Das Wirtshaus im Spessart, later to become a successful film - The Spessart Inn. However, the Village is known as the location of Schloss Mespelbrunn - a fairy-tale Castle.

The predecessor of Mespelbrunn Castle was just a simple, unfortified Manor house next to a small lake, built shortly after 1412 by Hamann Echter. The small but perfectly formed Castle in western Bavaria has survived for 100s of years unscathed, mainly due to its location, nestled in the famous Spessart Forest immortalized by the Brothers Grimm in their mythical fairy-tales. Sometimes referred to as a Wasserschloss (Water Castle), the Castle sits serenely in its own little Lake, complete with resident Swans.

In 1412, the Archbishop of Mainz gifted some land next to a pond in the Spessart to a Knight named Echter, for his part in defeating the Czechs. At this point, Spessart was literally thick with thieves & bandits, which inspired the 2^nd generation of Echters to build fortifications around their stately Home.

From this period, only the round Tower remains, with the rest of the Castle being rebuilt in the Renaissance style from 1551-1569. The most famous resident was Julius Echter, Prince-Bishop of Wurzburg (1545-1617), who founded a Hospital & the University of Wurzburg in 1583.

Schloss Mespelbrunn was never in a high traffic location & this saved it during the Thirty Years War when Armies of all sides were rampaging through the area. By 1665, the last male Echter died without leaving a male heir. However, the daughter Maria Ottilia Echterin married into the Ingelheim family which were later elevated to Counts. The current Count Ingelheim lives in the Castle with his family today.

Completely unrelated to the actual history of the Castle, a famous Musical called Das Wirsthaus im Spessart was filmed here & a nearby town in 1958, which seems to inspire many Tourists to visit & the Castle was opened to visitors & ‘guided’ tours. Now, the Owners rent it out for Weddings & other events.

On the tour (Admission included) you will see the Knight’s Hall on the ground floor, with suits of Armour & heraldic symbols in stained glass. Moving upstairs, you get to see their Dining Hall with a kind of a Hunting Lodge theme, with wild Boars’ heads & antlers mounted all over the place, as well as an impressive Table setting. There is also a small but interesting display of weapons, including some wicked-looking early Crossbows.

There is a Tower Room dedicated to honouring Julius Echter, Prince-Bishop of Wurzburg & all his contributions. Moving through to a Bedroom, it is hard not to imagine sleeping here with the window open to the breeze, listening to Bandits call to each other in the woods.

The 40 minute Tour concludes & you are on your way to Frankfurt, an hour away.

Arrive by late afternoon & Check-in at the Hotel.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or Optional activities (we will be happy to offer suggestions & / or make arrangements).

Though few tourists spend any time sightseeing in Frankfurt, plenty pass through - whether using the Airport or while linking the Wine & Castles stretch of the Rhine to the north with the fairy-tale Romantic Road to the south. Frankfurt's Skyline is a great reminder that there is much more to modern Germany than Castles & old cobbled Squares.

With its forest of Skyscrapers, Frankfurt has been dubbed "Mainhattan" - the city leads the country in High-rises (mostly Bank Headquarters). Glinting with glass, steel and concrete skyscrapers, Frankfurt-on-the-Main (pronounced ‘mine’) is unlike any other German city. A bustling Metropolis & Germany’s commercial heart on the shores of the Main River, founded in the Roman era, it is home to major Banks including the headquarters of the European Central Bank in the gleaming colossal 338 metres Europe Tower, the 259 metres Commerzbank Tower & one of the world’s largest Stock Exchanges. It also famously hosts some of the world's most important Trade Fairs, attracting thousands of business travellers.

Ever since the early Middle Ages, when, as its name hints, Frankfurt was a good place to ford (-furt) the river, people have gathered here to trade. A pragmatic city, Frankfurt's decisions are based on what is good for business. Destroyed by WWII bombs? It as an opportunity to rebuild better than ever for commerce.

Most people associate Frankfurt with Brokers, Banks, Stocks & Shares - & they wouldn't be wrong, but there is much more to the city than just big business. Frankfurt does, after all, have an unrivalled Museum scene. Its collection of Galleries & Museums, 2^nd in Germany only to Berlin’s, is considered one of the world's finest, with contents which reflect this high standing.

It might be more serious, but the Financial District is well worth a visit too, for a true taste of Frankfurt. The towering Banks & Office Blocks form Europe's most impressive skyline & Frankfurt's ultimate landmark. But rest assured, the Art found in this part of the city is also of international standing. Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank & DZ Bank’s own Art Collections that any Museum would be proud of & these are opened to the public at certain times. Skyscrapers as Art Galleries ? Only in Frankfurt. For a commanding view over the whole Cityscape, ride up to the 54^th floor of the Main Tower.