A Journey Through Germany

The Bavarian capital of Munich is where we'll begin our journey through this picturesque and historic country. After meeting our Tour Leader and fellow travellers at the hotel, we'll clink glasses over a sumptuous welcome dinner. Stay: Hotel Drei Löwen (or similar) (D)

After breakfast, we'll board the mini-coach and move on to our first stop: Regensburg. Located on the mighty Danube River and known for its medieval city centre – we'll relish some free time to stroll across the 12th-century Stone Bridge, marvel at the magnificent Gothic Cathedral and enjoy lunch at our leisure.

Then: we'll move on to Weltenburg Abbey. Here, we'll be treated to a tour of the oldest monastic brewery in the world and savour a tasting of the Abbey's award-winning beers. Winding up our day in Bamberg, we'll have the evening to spend at our leisure. Stay: Welcome Hotel Residenzschloss Bamberg (or similar) (B)

This morning, the city will be brought to life as we embark on a walking tour with a local guide. Unravel the intriguing history of Bamberg as we wander around Cathedral Square and the Old Town Hall – hearing fascinating stories that have been passed down from generations as we go. Equipped with our newfound knowledge, we'll have the afternoon to explore at our own pace. What you choose to do is up to you, although we recommend a visit to Altenberg Castle – which dates back to 1109 and has a rich history to uncover.

This evening, we'll have time to savour some delicious Bavarian cuisine at a local restaurant or spend at our leisure back at the hotel. Stay: Welcome Hotel Residenzschloss Bamberg (or similar) (B)

Today, we leave Bamberg behind as we continue onwards to Würzburg. After an orientation tour of the Old Town with our Tour Leader, we'll turn our attention to the splendid Würzburg Residence. An exquisite example of baroque architecture and one of the most significant palaces in Europe – we'll have plenty of time to admire the ingenious interior design, ornate rooms and grandiose Garden and White Halls. After lunch at our leisure, we'll continue our journey along the Romantic Road to Rothenburg – where a delicious group dinner awaits. Stay: Hotel Altes Brauhaus (or similar) (B/D)

A visit to Germany's oldest and most famous university town is on the agenda today. Looming high above the Altstadt (Old Town), the red-sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle are a remarkable example of Renaissance architecture – and we'll have plenty of time to explore the castle grounds at our own pace. Choose to take lunch in the cafe-lined Marktplatz and marvel at the Gothic Heiliggeistkirche church towers, before we continue on to the spa town of Baden-Baden.

The evening will be free to enjoy some local fare in town or relax at the hotel. Stay: Heliopark Bad Hotel zum Hirsch (or similar) (B)

This morning will see us say farewell to Baden-Baden and set a course for Central Black Forest. We'll make a scenic stop in the quaint village of Schonach, where a visit to a traditional cuckoo clock manufacturer is in store. Then: we'll wind our way through this enchanting forest in search of one of the many mesmerising waterfalls in the area.

Later, we'll arrive in the vibrant city of Freiburg - where we'll be free to wander the cobblestone streets lined with water-filled runnels at our leisure. Stay: The Alex Hotel (or similar) (B)

Today, we'll begin with a tour of Freiburg's charming farmer's market at Münsterplatz. Sample various delicious regional specialties, including cheese, bread, sweets and wines, made by local artisans. The afternoon is then yours to spend how you wish. You could choose to visit one of the many fascinating museums and galleries scattered around Freiburg's city centre or relax in the picture-perfect Rathausplatz.

This evening, we suggest seeking out more scrumptious cuisine within the medieval Altstadt - and perhaps sample a slice (or two) of the decadent Black Forest gâteau hailing from this area. Stay: The Alex Hotel (or similar) (B)

Today's journey will begin with a stop at Friedrichshafen – a city known for its significant historic contribution to the aviation industry. We'll pay a visit to the fascinating Zeppelin Museum before having some free time to wander the lakeside promenade and savour lunch at our leisure. Then: we'll take in the marvellous views over the Bodensee as we continue to Lindau for a brief photo opportunity. Our day will end amid the breathtaking Ammergau Alps – the perfect setting for our delectable farewell dinner. Stay: Schlosskrone Hotel (or similar) (B/D)

Before our tour comes to a close, we'll pay a visit to the imposing Neuschwanstein Castle – known as the ‘castle of the fairytale king'. Dramatically located above the village of Hohenschwangau, we'll have time to wander the 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace at our own pace. After, we'll make our way back to Munich – where we'll say our goodbyes. (B)