7 day itinerary for South Germany

Itinerary

South Germany is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, charming towns, and rich history. Let’s dive into a delightful 7-day itinerary that will have you soaking up the Bavarian culture, exploring fairy-tale castles, and indulging in delicious local cuisine. Ready? Let’s go!

## Day 1: Munich – The Heart of Bavaria

Morning: Arrive in Munich! Start your day with a hearty Bavarian breakfast at a local café. Try Weisswurst (white sausage) with sweet mustard and pretzels.

Afternoon: Head to Marienplatz, the city’s central square. Don’t miss the Glockenspiel show at the New Town Hall! Afterward, explore the Viktualienmarkt, a bustling food market where you can sample local delicacies.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at Hofbräuhaus, the famous beer hall. Try some traditional dishes like Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) and wash it down with a Maß (liter) of beer!

## Day 2: Neuschwanstein Castle – A Fairy Tale Come to Life

Morning: Take a scenic drive or train ride to Füssen (about 2 hours from Munich). From there, head to Neuschwanstein Castle. Make sure to book your tickets in advance!

Afternoon: Explore the castle and its stunning surroundings. After your visit, take a leisurely walk around the Alpsee lake for breathtaking views.

Evening: Return to Füssen and enjoy a cozy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some Allgäu cheese specialties!

## Day 3: Garmisch-Partenkirchen – Nature’s Playground

Morning: Drive or take a train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen (about 1.5 hours from Füssen). Start your day with a cable car ride up to the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak. The views are absolutely spectacular!

Afternoon: Spend some time hiking or simply enjoying the panoramic views. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some alpine activities like skiing or snowboarding (depending on the season).

Evening: Head back down and explore the charming town. Have dinner at a traditional Bavarian restaurant, and don’t forget to try some local beer!

## Day 4: Rothenburg ob der Tauber – A Medieval Gem

Morning: Depart for Rothenburg ob der Tauber (about 2.5 hours from Garmisch-Partenkirchen). This medieval town is like stepping back in time!

Afternoon: Explore the well-preserved old town, walk along the city walls, and visit the famous Christmas Museum. Don’t miss the Plönlein, the iconic half-timbered house.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local tavern. Try the Rothenburg Schneeballen, a sweet pastry that’s a local specialty!

## Day 5: Nuremberg – History and Culture

Morning: Head to Nuremberg (about 1 hour from Rothenburg). Start your day at the Nuremberg Castle for a glimpse into the city’s history.

Afternoon: Visit the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds to learn about the city’s role during WWII. Then, stroll through the charming old town and visit the beautiful St. Lorenz Church.

Evening: Savor some Nuremberg sausages for dinner, and if you’re up for it, explore the local beer gardens!

## Day 6: Bamberg – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Morning: Travel to Bamberg (about 1 hour from Nuremberg). Start your day with a visit to the Bamberg Cathedral and the Old Town Hall, which is perched on an island in the river.

Afternoon: Explore the picturesque streets and sample the famous smoked beer (Rauchbier) at a local brewery. The town is also known for its beautiful gardens, so take a stroll through the Rose Garden.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Franconian restaurant. Don’t forget to try the local specialties like Schäufele (pork shoulder) and potato dumplings!

## Day 7: Würzburg – Wine and Palaces

Morning: Head to Würzburg (about 1.5 hours from Bamberg). Start your day at the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its stunning architecture and gardens.

Afternoon: Take a walk along the Main River and visit the Marienberg Fortress for panoramic views of the city. If you’re a wine lover, stop by a local vineyard for a tasting of Franconian wines.

Evening: For your last dinner in South Germany, indulge in some local wine and a delicious meal at a riverside restaurant. Reflect on your amazing week as you toast to new adventures!

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Consider getting a Bayern Ticket for unlimited travel on regional trains in Bavaria.
• Language: While many people speak English, learning a few basic German phrases can enhance your experience.
• Cash: Many smaller establishments prefer cash, so keep some Euros handy.

And there you have it! A week filled with adventure, culture, and delicious food in South Germany. Enjoy every moment, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Safe travels! 🌍✨