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A 3-day Florence Itinerary: 14 Things to Do + Where to Eat

by madelineraeaway November 14, 2021

Ah, Florence. A city that doubles as a living museum, filled with centuries worth of art and culture and history. You might be wondering is Florence worth visiting? Well, I’m convinced that it’s impossible not to fall for this city. Whether you’re gazing up at the intricate details of the Duomo, staring directly into the eyes of David, or walking the immaculate hallways of the Uffizi, you’ll find yourself constantly reminded that some of the most famous creatives to ever live have found their inspiration while wandering these exact Florentine streets.

How Many Days in Florence?

So you’ve decided you want to visit the city but you’re wondering “how may days in Florence is enough?”

Despite it’s small size, Florence is the type of city that you could spend weeks in. Weeks getting lost in the narrow cobblestone streets, trying all the gelato shops to determine the best one (more on that later), and visiting the 72 museums that are scattered across city. It may seem like there is never enough time. But, how many days in Florence is enough to see the highlights?

With so much to do in Florence, planning a trip to this iconic city can be a bit overwhelming. We personally spent 5 days in Florence and I’m still left with so many reasons to go back. I firmly believe that Florence is a city that should be explored slowly and thoughtfully, but I realize that most of us don’t have the luxury of spending weeks in the city (but what a dream that would be, right?).

That’s why I’ve consolidated this guide into 14 things that you could easily fit into a 3-day Florence itinerary. In 3 days in Florence, you can see many of the highlights, and some non-touristy things too.

The Highlights: 3-Day Florence Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Florence, late lunch at All’Antico Vinaio or Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, wander around Santa Croce, climb The Brunelleschi Dome at sunset, go for a late dinner
Day 2: Early morning at the Duomo di Firenze, Galleria dell’Accademia (Statue of David), an afternoon walk at Boboli Gardens, sunset at Piazza Michaelangelo, dinner and drinks in Oltrarno
Day 3 : Moring visit to Mercato di San Lorenzo, take a Florence food tour, visit the Uffizi Gallery, dinner at Trattoria ZaZa

Have a few extra days? Take a tour to the Tuscany countryside. Read about my experience here!

3-DAY FLORENCE ITINERARY Details:
14 Touristy and Unusual things to do in Florence

get up early to experience the marvel of david

You know what they say … early bird catches the worm. If there’s one thing worth booking an early ticket for, it’s the Statue of David at Galleria dell’Accademia. Yes, THAT David.

In order to fit as many things as possible into your 3-day Florence itinerary, cannot stress enough how important it is to book your ticket ahead of time for the museums in Florence. Otherwise, you risk waiting hours in the standby line instead of our roaming the Florentine streets.

We opted for the first time slot of the day at 9:00 and wow – it was so worth it. We came fact-to-face (feet?) with the iconic David with almost no one else around. It felt surreal. Within 15 minutes, the room was packed with other visitors so this is an attraction that’s worth the early wake up.

Tickets: Book Galleria dell’Academia tickets on the official website here. The cost of booking ahead is 16€.

Come face-to-face with some of the world's most famous art at The Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi Gallery is home to some of the most important art in the world. Housing the works of artists like da Vinci, Botticelli, Michelangelo, Raffaello and more, it is an attraction that cannot be missed.

As you’d imagine, every Florence tourist wants to visit Uffizi. So, similar to Galleria dell’Accademia, you should absolutely book tickets in advance to avoid waiting in lines all day in the hot Florence sun. We want to fit as much as possible into our 3-day Florence itinerary after all, don’t we?

Tickets: You can buy tickets in advance here. The price of 24€ might seem a bit steep, and you may be tempted to buy tickets the day-of and save 4€ but buying in advance will save you (potentially) hours of time.

Skip the crowds + Experience early morning golden hour at the Duomo di Firenze

Perhaps the most iconic building is the Duomo di Firenze, or the Florence Cathedral. We’ve all seen the photos of pink, green and white-sided masterpiece, but in real life, it is truly mind-blowing. The details are immaculate.

As you can imagine, the area around the complex gets really busy during peak daytime hours, which is why I really recommend an early wakeup for this one. During the early morning hours, the rising sun hits the building and highlights it in the perfect shade of gold. This is the perfect time to walk around the exterior, and take in all the intricate details of the building. It’s an incredible work of art.

If you’re interested in a hotel room with Duomo view, keep reading to see where we stayed.

Climb 463 steps to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome

Now, there’s lots to do at the Duomo di Firenze. And the cost of visiting all these different attractions can add up quickly. You can visit the Cathedral for free but make sure to go early because the line gets very long. In my honest opinion, the Cathedral is beautiful, but it wasn’t a highlight for me which is why I didn’t include it in this 3-day Florence itinerary.

However, there is one thing that is really worth doing. If you’re going to pay for one thing to do at Duomo di Firenze, then I can really recommend climbing to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome.

And I know what you’re thinking – 463 steps sounds really intimidating (especially if you’re visiting during a summer heat wave like we were). But the stairwell itself was surprisingly cool and I promise it is worth the effort to see the incredible work of art that is Brunelleschi’s Dome. Then, once at the very top, you’ll be welcomed by the most beautiful open-air views over Florence and the Tuscan countryside in the distance. It’s a must-do!

Tickets: Brunelleschi’s Dome tickets must be purchased in advance here. The cost is 20€ and the tickets are known to sell out many days in advance so be sure to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

Eat your heart out in FLorence's food scene

From traditional Tuscan fare and trendy apertivo bars to very local markets, there is no shortage of good eats in Florence. I’m a firm believer that cities are best experienced through your palette – here’s a few of the best restaurants in Florence to indulge at:

Il Santino Bevitore: You’ll see this trendy osteria show up on a lot of foodie lists, and for good reason. It’s wildly popular with locals and foodie tourists both trying to snag tables. The menu features classic Florentine staples with a bit of a modern twist, and everything is made with such high quality ingredients. If you can’t get a table at Bevitore, you can head next door to the restaurant’s wine bar (that’s what we did!). There you can taste some of the best natural wines the region has to offer and order small plates off the restaurant menu.

Trattoria ZaZa: From the outside, Trattoria ZaZa looks like everything I would avoid in a restaurant while travelling: touristy location, massive menu, and a patio over-looking a big square. It has all the characteristics of a tourist trap. I had read a lot about it but I wasn’t going to go, But, I had a couple locals reach out to me on Instagram and tell me that despite being touristy, the restaurant is a cultural institution for both locals and tourists alike. So, I gave in and we decided to try out this iconic spot. And you know what, the food was fantastic. Everything we tried was so well-made (I still have no idea how they do it with the size of their menu), and it was such a good value. Don’t write off ZaZa!

All’Antico Vinaio: You’re probably heard of this super famous panini spot, it’s on literally every food recommendation list in Florence. If you walk past, it’s hard to miss the seemingly mile-long lineup of people waiting to get a panini. I’ve heard stories of people waiting as long as two hours to try this world-famous panini. Before we stopped by I was so confused by the hype – I mean, how good can a panini really be? We lucked out and walked past around 3:00pm, after the lunch rush calmed down and only waited about 15 minutes in line. The panini was a great value at around 5 euro for a huge sandwich. And it was really delicious. But, was it the best panini I had in Florence? Not quite. To me, it’s more about the hype and experience. Keep reading or skip to the local market section to hear about my favourite panini in Florence…

Vin & Delizie: If you’re looking for a spot to grab a pre-dinner apertivo, this is a great little patio with a nice drink selection and a super friendly host. For some other fun apertivo spots, head to Oltrarno and check out some of my favourite spots there.

Hosteria il Desco: For a traditional Florentine meal, this is a great spot to go. Here they serve of local must-try dishes like Florentine steak and regional pastas.

iO Osteria Personale: If you’re looking for something a bit less traditional, and a bit more trendy, iO Osteria Personale is putting their own spin on traditional Florentine food and serving a tasting menu filled with creative dishes with local influences. This spot is a bit of a splurge, but was a good value for the high quality.

Piazza Santo Spirito: If you’re looking for a quick lunch or afternoon drink in the sun, I loved the square called ‘Piazza Santo Spirito.’ Here there are tons of options for food. I particularly liked Tamero Pasta Bar for lunch. And GustoPizza is another popular local spot to grab pizza.

Feeling overwhelmed by the Florence food scene and are looking for a local experience, I’ve got you covered…

Experience of the best of Florentine food culture with a Florence Food Tour

If you’ve been following me for awhile, you know I love a good food tour. I fact, I almost always try to do one when I visit a new city because it really helps you get a better feel for the local food culture. The food culture in Florence is deep-rooted in tradition, and as a newcomer to the city, it can be a bit overwhelming to know what to eat. Thankfully, Streaty Tours has you covered.

I absolutely loved the morning we spent wandering a bit deeper around Florence’s local neighbourhoods with Streaty Tours. Operating in various cities across Italy, we had the pleasure of meeting the company’s Palermo-based owner Marco who was visiting Florence while we were there. His passion for food and sharing authentic Italian food culture radiated. Together with the brilliant local guide Gaia, we learned all about Florence’s local food culture and a bit of history of the city.

We started our tour with a visit to a local market – there wasn’t another tourist in site. Here, we tried local meats and cheeses and wine, and learned about the history of these foods. As the tour went on we ate in a very local hosteria where we tried regional delicacies, and were treated to perhaps the most ‘popular’ street food in Florence – Lampredotto (tripe). It was surprisingly pretty delicious.

Click here to book a Streaty Food Tour in Florence.

Things to do in FLorence at Night: Bar-Hop at the trendiest bars in Oltrarno

Are you looking for things to do in Florence at night? Head across the river to Oltrarno to some of the cities coolest bars and restaurants. Here’s a few of my favourites.

Il Santino Wine Bar: Serving some of the best natural wines in the city and a delicious assortment of small plates, we loved Il Santino Wine Bar so much we went there twice! It’s the perfect spot for an Italian apertivo and the staff was so fun and friendly. Shown bottom left.

Bulli & Balene: Looking for a funky cocktail bar in Florence? Bulli & Balene serves an assortment of fun and innovative spritzes. Shown bottom right.

Le Volpi e l’Uva: Another amazing natural wine bar in Florence with a big selection of local products and a patio made for sipping wine in the sun.

Babae: Another cool place to grab a drink in the area! They also have an iconic Florence wine window that was recently revived to serve drinks.

Admire the best views of the city at Piazzale Michelangelo

Looking for the best view of Florence? Head up to Piazzale Michelangelo. Head over to the south side of the Arno River and take a walk through the narrow local streets to this iconic lookout. You’ll be rewarded with the most beautiful views of Florence and the Duomo in the distance.

If you’re travelling on a budget – or just want to have the most picture perfect picnic – this is a great spot to do it. Many people say that Piazzale Michelangelo is best visited at sunset, but be prepared to be competing for “the shot” with many other tourists. Even still, the way the city glows at golden hour is worth it.

I’ve included this spot as a sunset stop on this 3-day Florence itinerary, but Piazzale Michelangelo is beautiful at any time of day. Just look at these photos!

Visit a touristy florence food market - and then head to a more local spot

So if you’ve been reading other Florence itineraries, you’ve probably read about the famous market Mercato di San Lorenzo (Mercato Centrale). It’s right in the middle of the city, filled with vendors, and surrounded by the famous Florence leather market. It is an institution in the city and deserves a visit.

Our hotel was close by Mercato di San Lorenzo so I really enjoyed going in there in the morning, grabbing coffee and breakfast, and then wandering around Florence as the city woke up.

However, Mercato di San Lorenzo has also become very touristy and I was told that many locals now have stopped shopping there. So, if you want a bit more of a local market experience in Florence, head outside of the centre to Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio.

Not only were the Sant’Ambrogio and Santa Croce neighbourhoods some of my favourites to roam in Florence, but this market is a true local experience. Here we shopped at tiny local vendors, and ate the best panini I had during my entire trip. The women working there was so friendly and even though she spoke no English, she gestured around to make us each a custom panini. I’m still not exactly sure what was on them but it was one of the best things I ate during my entire time in Italy.

Take a stroll around Boboli Gardens

Boboli Gardens is a massive 11-acre park in Florence that dates back to the mid-1700s when it was designed for the Medici family. Today it serves as an open-air museum filled with sculptures, statues, fountains, grottoes, and buildings from a variety of eras – and of course, gardens.

I absolutely loved walking around the gardens. You can cover most of the gardens in 1.5 hours and it is definitely worth fitting into a 3-day Florence itinerary.

Tickets: You have to pay for a ticket to visit Boboli Gardens. Tickets are 6€ for adults and can be purchased in advance here.

Cross the river via Ponte Vecchio - a few times

The Ponte Vecchio is an arched bridge that crosses the Arno River and is famous for having shops built along either side of it. Having shops alongside bridges used to be quite a common practice, and it’s believed that this iconic Florence landmark dates back as far as Roman times.

Today, you’ll find mostly jewellers occupying the bridge, and it often gets a bit congested with visitors. However, as touristy as it may be, it’s a fun way to experience an important part of Florence’s history.

Make it your mission to find the best gelato in FLorence

Okay, there are more Gelateria’s in Florence it can seem overwhelming. Lucky for you, I tried a bunch of them so you don’t have to. Here’s, in my opinion, some of the best gelato in Florence:

Caminia
Perche No
Gelateria della Passera
Gelateria de Neri
Gelateria La Carraia

Be mindful that there are gelato tourist traps everywhere in Florence. As a rule of thumb, avoid Gelateria’s that have super bright-coloured gelato (they’ve added something to make it that bright). Also, if you see gelato that is piled SUPER high, it also has something unnatural added to it and it’s just for tourists.

Take a day trip from Florence to the Tuscany Countryside

Run out of things to do during your 3-day Florence itinerary? I find this hard to believe. But either way, you should make time in your Italy itinerary to head out to the Tuscany countryside!

During my recent trip to Italy, we rented a car and spent six days in the Tuscan countryside. However, planning a trip to Tuscany can feel overwhelming.

That’s why we also spent two days slow travelling in Tuscany with KM Zero Tours and I cannot recommend this tour company enough. They take you to tiny local wineries, introduce you to their friends in Tuscany, and offer a truly local and personally curated Tuscany experience. Read more on that here.

Just wander the narrow city streets

Perhaps my favourite thing to do in Florence is just wander and daydream. This city is made for wandering off-the-beaten path. Beyond the city’s most touristy areas, I got lost in my camera in the tiny corners of local neighbourhoods.

After a few days wandering in the city, the cozy neighbourhoods of Santa Croce, Porta Romana, San Frediano, and Oltrarno became quick favourites of mine.

Where to stay in Florence

When I first started looking for where to stay in Florence, I really wanted to stay on the south side of the Arno River because it felt more local and trendy. However, after a lot of research, it felt like it would be a bit complicated to get our bags from the train station to the other side of the city. Florence is a small city, you can walk almost anywhere in 20-30 minutes. So there is no particularly “bad” place to stay in the city centre.

I decided that staying close to the train station and airport tramline would be best for getting in and out of the city. I stumbled upon Soggiorno Rubino, a small boutique hotel which is located on a main transit line.

We spent five nights total here and it was an amazing value. The rooms are spacious and have incredible views of the Duomo, and owner Andrea was helpful and so kind. I can’t recommend this spot enough!

If you’re looking for a Florence hotel with Duomo views of the Duomo, you’ll want to book this now.

Need help finding these unusual things to do in Florence? Here's a map!

Heading to Tuscany?
Check out some of my other content!

TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE | Slow Travel in the Tuscany Countryside: KM Zero Tours(more coming soon!)

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November 14, 2021 0 comment

Things to do in Helsingborg - Including where to stay

City Guide Sweden

The 10 Best Things to Do in Helsingborg Sweden + Where to Stay

by madelineraeaway May 26, 2021

The historic seaside city of Helsingborg is home to just over 100,000 people, and sits along Sweden’s south-west coastline about 45 minutes north of my home, Malmö. Despite it’s close proximity, until recently, I hadn’t spent much time in Helsingborg. So when the local Helsingborg tourism board reached out to invite me for a weekend visit, I was so excited to learn more all the things to do in Helsingborg (hint: it’s a lot!).

A bit of a fun fact: Helsingborg was actually the first place that I ever visited in Sweden. When I first came to visit Sebastian here in 2017, he was living and working in the city at the time. It was the middle of December, which meant it was very cold and dark, and I never really had the chance to experience the city.

Now, after spending three full days exploring Helsingborg, I can confirm that this walkable city is full of charm and fun things to do. Here are some of my favourites!

Things to Do in Helsingborg
Skip Ahead To...

1. Climb the steps up to Kärnan watchtower
2. Step back in time at Sofiero Palace and Gardens
3. Explore the city by bike
4. Go beer tasting at a local brewery: Barski
5. Take a pottery class at Wallåkra Stenkärlsfabrik
6. Eat famous tomato pie at Miss Alice Krog & Delikatesser
7. Take a walk along the water at Groningen (+ go swimming if you dare!)
8. Enjoy dinner with a seaside view at Sillen & Makrillen
9. Chocolate-tasting at an award-winning chocolatier: Chocolatte
10. Take the Helsingborg to Helsingør ferry to visit the famous Hamlet castle in Denmark
11. Where to stay: The best Helsingborg hotel
12. Helsingborg map: Your guide to the city

Here's 10 things to do in Helsingborg to have the perfect weekend getaway in Sweden

1. Climb the steps up to Kärnan watchtower

Sitting high a top the city of Helsingborg, this watchtower is one of the most popular places to visit in Helsingborg. It dates back 700 years to when Helsingborg still belonged to Denmark and is perhaps the most famous symbol of the city. From the 35-metre high tower, you can enjoy the most beautiful views of the city, waterfront – and even Helsingør, Denmark in the distance. You can also learn more about the city’s history during the Middle Ages.

2. Step back in time at Sofiero Palace and Gardens

Located on the outskirts of Helsingborg, Sofiero Palace is perhaps the most famous place in Helsingborg – and I’d argue the most beautiful, too. Sofiero Palace was built in the mid-1800s as a summer house for the Swedish royal family, and other nobility across Europe.

The castle is beautiful, but the main attraction of Sofiero Palace is the gardens, which has actually been named Europe’s most beautiful garden. The 15-hectare waterfront property is filled with beautiful gardens, a ravine, and northern Europe’s largest collection of rhododendron. In fact, the garden features over 10,000 rhododendron shrubs and over 450 species collected from all over the world, which bloom throughout May and June.

Princess Margareta’s perfectly curated flowerbeds are another highlight of Sofiero Palace. I’d recommend taking a tour of the property to learn more about the history of the palace and gardens.

And if you have time, the castle restaurant is a can’t miss. We had a wonderful seafood lunch here overlooking the sea.

3. Explore the city by bike

My favourite way to explore a new city is always by bike. And luckily, Helsingborg is very bike-friendly. Both the city and countryside are mapped with bike trails, so you can rent a bike and take it to the countryside locations in this itinerary, like Sofiero Palace or Wallåkra.

If you’re planning on spending several hours biking like we did, I really recommend renting an electric bike – speaking from experience, the countryside wind is no joke. You can rent a variety of bikes from the Helsingborg Travelshop.

4. Go beer tasting at a local brewery: Barski

If you’re looking for the best beer in Helsingborg, I’ve got you covered. Barski brews their own assortment of beers, affectionately called ‘Brewski,’ and offers beer tastings at their location in central Helsingborg. In addition to their own beers, they often feature beers from other breweries, which is served alongside huge bowls of ramen soup.

Sebastian opted for an assortment of lagers which he said were fantastic, while I tasted four different sour beers with unique flavours including hints of mango and coconut. We collectively tried eight different beers and weren’t disappointed by a single one … which, I mean, says a lot.

Book a table at Barski here.

5. Take a pottery class at Wallåkra Stenkärlsfabrik

A highlight of my time in Helsingborg and an absolute must visit is Wallåkra Stenkärlsfabrik for a pottery tour and class. During your visit to Wallåkra, you’ll take a tour around the facility and learn how the famous stoneware has been made since the 1800s. The process is completely unique to the region, and involves burning goods made of unique centuries-old clay at 1300 degrees Celsius.

If you opt to take a class, you’ll learn the ins-and-outs of pottery local pottery making, and why it is so important to preserve this local tradition.

6. Eat famous tomato pie at Miss Alice Krog & Delikatesser

Miss Alice Krog & Delikatesser is a countryside cafe and restaurant that has become very famous for a specific dish: Tomato pie. Many people have tried to recreate the secret recipe with little success, so it is absolutely worth the trip here to experience it for yourself.

After lunch, make sure you head across the street to Tomatens Hus (Tomato House), where Miss Alice sources their tomatoes from. Here you can shop for a large assortment of tomatoes, plants, peppers, baked goods, and other delicacies.

7. Take a walk along the water at Groningen (+ go swimming if you dare!)

The Helsingborg waterfront is really beautiful, especially in the warmer months. If you’re looking for the perfect seaside walking path, head over to Groningen. Here you’ll find the best spot to watch the Helsingborg sunset, or go for a swim – which you’re bound to see brave locals doing all months of the year.

8. Enjoy a seaside dinner with a view at Sillen & Makrillen

If you’re looking to eat at one of the best restaurants in Helsingborg, you must book a table at Sillen & Makrillen. It is located along the water with the most beautiful views – you really can’t get much closer to the sea than this!

Helsingborg is quite famous for seafood, and this restaurant in the best place to enjoy fresh fish. The quality is exceptional, using local ingredients to craft well thought-out dishes.

In the warmer months, you can sit out on the terrace with a view of the sea. But, even if the weather is a bit chilly, the views from inside are spectacular with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Book at table at Sillen & Makrillen here.

9. Chocolate-tasting at an award-winning chocolatier: Chocolatte

Chocolatte is an award-winning chocolatier in Helsingborg, having been awarded several medals in the International Chocolate Awards. It is a great place to enjoy a Helsingborg fika, or you can take some chocolates home as a souvenir.

There are so many options to try ranging from chocolate bars, to pralines and fudge. I can personally really recommend salt kola + lakrits (salted caramel and licorice), kolacreme + brynt smor (caramel cream + burnt butter), and virgin mojito.

10. Take the Helsingborg to Helsingør ferry to visit the famous Hamlet castle in Denmark

If you’re spending a bit more time in the city and are looking for a day trip from Helsingborg, take the Helsingborg to Helsingør ferry to Denmark for the afternoon. Here you can visit the famous Kronborg Castle, which inspired Shakespeare’s Hamlet. While in Helsingør, you should also try Danish open face sandwiches, called Smørrebrød. You’ll find plenty of cozy cafes serving these open rye bread sandwiches, which the Danes traditionally pair with a beer and a shot of aquavit.

The Helsingborg to Helsingør ferry is a fun experience in itself. Because the cost of alcohol is significantly cheaper in Denmark compared to Sweden, it is common to see local Swedes riding the ferry to purchase beer on the Danish side of the border. In fact, once the ferry crosses the Swedish-Danish border, a bell goes off and Swedes flock over to the Duty Free Shop to make their purchases. It’s a fun cultural experience!

Where to stay: The best Helsingborg hotel

The Elite Hotel Mollberg is located centrally at Stortorget in Helsingborg, inside a beautifully preserved historic building that dates back to the 14th Century. The hotel itself has been newly renovated, with modern rooms and all the amenities you could need.

Feelin' ready for your visit?
Here's the only map of things to do in Helsingborg that you'll ever need!

Looking for other Sweden City Guides?
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May 26, 2021 0 comment

Travel City Guide Germany

15 Unusual Things to Do in Berlin

by madelineraeaway October 13, 2020

Berlin is a city that is popular on most “euro trip” itineraries, which is why it might be a bit surprising to hear that I just visited the German capital for the first time this past August. A city full of grit and history, it has been on my radar forever. I’m not sure why it took me so long to get there, but I am glad I did because as a more immature traveller I am not sure I would have really appreciated it. I always knew I would like Berlin, but I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did. Berlin is incredibly unique – like no other city in the world – which means that there are so so many unusual things to do in Berlin. And while we only scratched the surface of things to do during our three days in Berlin, it just means I have a really good excuse to go back.

If you only have three days in Berlin like us and are looking to eat and see the city beyond touristy spots like Checkpoint Charlie, this list of unusual things to do in Berlin will help you dive a bit deeper in this quirky city.

a few quick facts about berlin:
━
language | german
currency | euro
population | 3.76 million
diversity | over 190 nationalities are represented in berlin
size | 891.8 km² (that's 9 times the size of paris!)

15 unusual things to do in Berlin

Pay your respects at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Pay your respects to the murdered Jews of Europe at this important monument.

Constructed from 2003-2004, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe is a massive 19,000 square metre memorial. It is located on a piece of land where part of the Berlin wall used to stand right in the centre of Mitte, Berlin. When choosing the location and size, it was important for the city that the memorial be noticeable – this is not a part of history the German’s wanted to hide. So, it sits in the city centre as a constant reminder of the past.

The artist never revealed the meaning behind the monument, as he wanted to leave it up to interpretation of visitors. We heard a few different interpretations while we were in Berlin, however I’ll let you to visit and reflect on the meaning behind the design of the memorial.

Visit the world's Longest open air gallery: East Side Gallery

While most of the former Berlin wall was torn down, a portion of the wall still remains to be visited. Alongside this portion of the wall you’ll find an urban art project filled with paintings and murals. What used to be a divisive barrier between East and West Berlin is now the longest open-air art gallery in the world. 1.3 kilometres to be exact along the east side of the wall.

It is also one of the most popular tourists spots in the city. But still, it can’t be missed.

Scroll through at a few of my favourite shots:

Take a historical Berlin bike tour

Think you know a lot about Berlin? Think again…

If you want to check off a few of the “must sees” in Berlin and hear stories about Berlin’s past of war and communism, the best way to do this is on a Berlin bike tour.

Berlin is a huge city and it would be almost impossible to see everything you would want to on a walking tour. That’s why a bike tour is the way to go! Stop by tourist favourites like Brandenburger Tor, Museum island, and the parking lot where Hilter’s bunker used to be. Hear about the untold stories of Berlin’s past, including lots of communism tales.

We did this tour with Berlin on Bike and I could not recommend it enough. The 3.5 hours “Highlights Bike Tour – Berlin’s Best” was the highlight of our time in Berlin. We left the tour in awe of the legacy of Berlin, and with a better understanding of why the city is the way it is – and what makes quirky Berlin unlike any other city in the world.

Snap a Quick Photo of Brandenburger Tor (Brandenburg Gate) ... And then move on

Is it touristy? Yep! Will you need to be on the look out for giant stuffed animals trying guilt you into taking photos with them? Mhmm.

But it’s also the most iconic symbol of Berlin and has been a part of many historical moments in the city, including being closed in connection to the Berlin wall. So go ahead – don’t be ashamed to have your touristy moment under the gate.

On the note of touristy, if you’re looking for things to skip in Berlin – skip Checkpoint Charlie. Sure it is a historically relevant spot, but the attraction has been recreated, is mega-touristy, and is surrounded by fast food restaurants. Plus, you have to pay to take photos with actors dressed up as soldiers…

Bar-Hop at the best bars in Kreuzberg

It’s no secret that Berlin is known for its nightlife. I am not much of a nightlife-seeker personally (I’m more of a “in bed by 10pm” kinda person). Even still, given the global disruptions in August 2020, all night clubs were closed.

However, the Berlin nightlife scene is more than its famous nightclubs. I really appreciated the cosy hole-in-the-wall bars and speakeasy cocktail scene in Kreuzberg, Berlin. Here’s a few of my favourite spots!

Café Luzia: In the heart of Kreuzberg, this minimalist hipster Berlin bar was a great spot for a beer or cocktail. They often have live music, too.

Das Hote l Bar: Around the corner from the popular Paul-Lincke-Ufer Street, this was perhaps my favourite Kreuzberg bar. In fact, we loved it so much we went back two nights in a row to sit at one of the tiny sidewalk-side tables. Inside, you’ll find a small living room style bar area with a great drink menu.

Schwarze Traube: Looking for a cocktail bar in Kreuzberg? This low key speakeasy is known around the city for its outstanding cocktails. The menu changes every day, and the bartender will explain in details the daily options – which come served in the most perfectly paired antique glasses to round out the whole experience.

Berlin Food Guide: Experience Berlin’s trendy food scene

On the tail end of our trip through Bavaria, we were so over Germany food. Luckily, Berlin set us up to end our trip on a high note culinary-wise.

Choosing the best restaurants to visit in Berlin in only three days is a tough task. Especially since there are loads and load – and I mean LOADS – of amazing food options. And while donar kebab from a hole-in-the-wall shop may be the most “popular dish” in the city, Berlin is a in reality a city made for foodies.

Which meant, I was a happy girl. Here’s my mini Berlin food guide:

Mogg: Located in a former predominatly Jewish neighbourhood, Spandauer Vorstadt, Mogg is a must-visit. This NYC Jewish Deli-inspired joint is your spot for traditional matzah ball soup, massive pastrami sandwiches, and authentic New York-style cheesecake. Located in a historical brick building, this space used to be a Jewish girls school. Make sure you make a reservation at this tiny spot to guarantee a table.

Santa Maria: Located in Kreuzberg, this is a popular local spot for Mexican-style tacos and some insanely good margaritas. You’ll probably see a long queue out front but don’t be alarmed. The line moves pretty quick, so give them your name and head across the street to Luzia Cafe for a drink while you wait.

Ilsebill: We stumbled across Ilsebill while we were wandering the Kollwitzkiez area looking for a beer garden that suggested to us after a long bike tour in the sun. We were so starving and the beer, burgers, and cute interior looked too good to pass by. So, I did a quick search to make sure the reviews looked ok and we popped in. I opted for the veggie burger, and paired with an ice cold beer on the patio it was the perfect lunch spot in Berlin.

Kulturbrauerei: Around the corner from Ilsebill, you’ll find this former brewery turned arts space with restaurants, patios, and other exhibits. It’s a great spot to grab lunch in the sun.

Zola: This popular Kreuzberg pizza restaurant was another stumble-upon. With a range of pizzas options, topped with tons of unique ingredients, this is a great spot to go to if you’re into trendy pizzas.

Eismanufactuktur: Looking for the best ice cream in Berlin? I’m convinced that this Graefekiez ice cream shop is it. They have a huge range of delicious vegan ice cream flavours (and non-vegan, too). Take one to go and walk around the Graefekiez neighbourhood. This area ended up being one of my absolute favourites in Berlin. (Tip: Take a look at the location on my map below, because there are a few spots with similar names in Berlin).

A Never Ever Ending Love Story: Looking for the best brunch in Berlin? I loved this spot. I can especially recommend their chai latte (with oat milk), Mexican Breakfast Bowl, and pancakes.

NENI Berlin: Full disclosure, we didn’t eat here. However, we did eat the location in Munich (with an almost-identical menu) and it was great. Most of the dishes are Middle Eastern and Israeli-inspired. And as a bonus, the restaurant is located at the top of Bikini Berlin with optional outdoor seating and incredible views of the city.

Shown above: Reuben sandwich at Mogg; ice cream at Eismanufakturer; brunch at A Never Ever Ending Love Story: interior at Santa Maria: interior at Ilsebill: interior at Mogg

Snap a photo at one of the most instagrammable Places in Berlin (and then grab dinner!)

Adding to my Berlin food guide, House of Small Wonder deserves its own spot because not only is it an amazing restaurant, but it also one of the most instagrammable spots in Berlin.

Tourists and locals alike flock to the spiral staircase to snap photos. So you’d think that the restaurant must be a tourist trap right? Wrong!

The House of Small Wonder menu offers a number of unique Asian-influenced dishes. The owners used to work in the NYC restaurant scene and brought their innovative food concepts to Berlin.

Make sure you make a reservation here for lunch or dinner – it’s very popular.

Admire the best berlin street art at RAW Berlin and Urban Spree Berlin

RAW Berlin and Urban Spree Berlin are located right next to each other in what was formerly East Berlin. This is where you’ll find some of the best Berlin street art.

RAW Berlin is a formal industrial site, used throughout the late 1800s and through the 1900s. Many of the historical industrial buildings remain, and you can see the old train tracks running through the property.

Today, RAW Berlin is a cultural hub full of street art, music venues, galleries, restaurants, clubs, and bars. While it is known to be a pretty wild party scene in the evenings, it is a really fun place to roam and admire the pure grittiness of Berlin.

Next door to RAW, you’ll find Urban Spree. Urban spree is a similar open space hosting concerts, restaurants, art exhibits, and a biergarten. Similar to RAW, it is known to be a popular nightlife attraction in the evening, but during the day you can find lots of fun exhibits or visit the Urban Spree Galerie to admire some urban art.

Scroll through a few of my favourite Berlin street art shots:

Visit the best photoautomat Berlin locations to snap a photo

These vintage photobooths, called Photoautomats, are scattered all over the city. They are a fun little throwback and the perfect spot to get a photo souvenir from Berlin.

If you’re looking for the best Photoautomat Berlin locations, you’ll find several of them scattered around Kruzberg. Here’s the Photoautomat Berlin locations of a few of my favourite ones:

Kulturbrauerei Photoautomat: This one is bright pink and is located in the Frannz Biergarten.

RAW Berlin Photoautomat: You’ll actually find two photobooths in RAW Berlin. One outside “Pizza Dealer” at the entrance of RAW Berlin. And the other one is inside RAW Berlin, out front of Cassiopeia.

Urban Spree Photoautomat: This double photobooth is close to the entrance of Urban Spree along Waschaurer Street.

Kottbusser Tor Photoautomat: This one is located next to Supermarket Kaisers at the popular Kottbusser Tor station (which you will likely get off it when visiting Kreuzberg).

Visit the iconic Reischtag Dome

The Reischtag Dome offers an incredible 360-degree-view of surrounding Berlin. It sits atop the Resichtag and you can see the parliament hall below.

I was so eager to visit the Reischtag Dome, but was so sad to find out that the tickets were sold out. I guess it just gives me a great excuse to get back to Berlin soon (not that I needed one).

So, my biggest tip for this hotspot: Make sure you get your Resichtag Dome tickets way ahead of time.

Learn about berlin's history at the Berlin Wall memorial

The Berlin Wall Memorial shows a section of the Berlin wall in its original construction. You aren’t totally able to grasp the concept of this wall, and how it was constructed, until you visit this memorial. Here, you can see the inner and outer wall, as well the construction of mounts, spikes, and electrical fences between them that made it nearly impossible for people to escape East Berlin.

If you take a tour, like the Berlin on Bike one I recommended, they will likely take you hear and explain this in depth. Either way, it’s worth a visit.

Visit Berlin’s most beautiful book store: Umbras Kuriositatenkabinett

Direct translation: Umbras Cabinet of Curiosities.

And I truly don’t think I have ever come across a shop more perfectly named.

This spot was a complete stumble upon in the Graefekiez neighbourhood and I’m so excited to share this secret spot with you! If you’re a fan of books, or book stores, Umbras Kuriositatenkabinett has books stacked floor to ceiling. The books were almost exclusively in German, but that doesn’t take away from just how cool this space was.

Stay at the coolest Hotel in Berlin – with views of the Berlin Zoo

If you’re wondering where to stay in Berlin, I have the best recommendation: 25hours Bikini Berlin! This was one of my favourite hotels, ever. Our hotel room even had a hammock overlooking the Berlin zoo.

I wrote a blog post all about this hotel. Check it out here.

Visit Berlin’s Quirkiest Neighbourhoods: Kreuzberg and Graefekiez (the ultimate Berlin Photography Spots!)

If you’re looking for the best neighbourhoods in Berlin to roam, Kreuzberg and Graefekiez are located right next to each other and are a great spot to do this.

Kreuzberg is Berlin’s hipster haven, full of vintage clothing shops, antique stores, cafes, bars, restaurants – and so much more. It’s gritty and artsy and weird and so quintessentially Berlin in every way. Roam around long enough and you’re bound to come home with a cheap and unnecessary trinkets that you just “had to have.”

Technically part of the Kreuzberg neighbourhood, you’ll find Graefekiez on the south side of the Landwehr canal. A bit more polished and posh, but really cool in a totally different way. This was my favourite neighbourhood in Berlin and the one I would want to live in (anyone else do this when they are travelling, or just me??). It’s filled with unique sustainability-minded shops, florists, cafes, and restaurants.

Berlin was an urban photographer’s dream! I had so much fun wandering the streets and snapping photos. Scroll through this gallery for some of my favourite Berlin photography shots from these two neighbourhoods:

Grab a bite to eat at Markthalle Neun Erste (Market Hall Nine)

You’ll find tons of food vendors in this historical 120-year-old Kreuzberg Markthalle Neun. This is a great spot to grab a quick lunch or snack, or an afternoon coffee. Keep in mind when planning your visit that the market is closed on Sundays.

Need help finding these unusual things to do in Berlin? Here's a map!

Heading on a Germany road trip?
Check out some of my other Germany content!

BAVARIA | Beer, Castles and Lederhosen: A Bavaria Germany Road Trip ItineraryMOSEL VALLEY | The Perfect Mosel Valley Itinerary: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting German Wine CountryTHE ALPS | Visiting the Bavarian Alps: Top Things to Do in Garmisch Partenkirchen

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October 13, 2020 6 comments

Travel City Guide Germany

Beer, Castles and Lederhosen: A Bavaria Germany Road Trip Itinerary

by madelineraeaway October 8, 2020

What do you think about when you first think of Germany? Before I first visited Bavaria in 2015, the stereotypical 1-litre steins of beer, magical castles, and men wearing lederhosen first came to mind (and the history, of course). And while my perception of Bavaria has evolved quite a bit after returning for the second time on my recent Bavaria Germany road trip, these three things – and what they represent in Bavarian tradition and culture – are still some of the things I still love most about Bavaria, Germany.

After spending several weeks in this area over the past five years, I have fallen hard for the deep-rooted culture, traditions, and beauty of this region. If you’re looking for quintessential Germany, Bavaria is where you want to go. And I’m sharing all my favourite things to do in Bavaria, and some of the fun things I learned about this region, in this comprehensive Bavaria Germany road trip itinerary. Let’s go!

recommended bavaria germany road trip itinerary
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5-7 days | 5 destinations

Munich: 2-3 days
Neuschwanstein Castle: 1-2 days
Rothenburg ob der Tauber: half day
Nuremberg: 1 day
Bamberg: half day

have a few extra days? click here to check out my Bavarian Alps itinerary!

Munich, Germany

First up on your Bavaria Germany road trip is Munich, a place with generations-old culture and lots of history. Many people visit Munich for Oktoberfest, but the city is so much more than this iconic festival and is a must-visit for history buffs and fans of unique cultural experiences.

I always assumed that lederhosen-clad men and steins of beer were more of an Oktoberfest tradition, but truthfully, you can find this walking stereotype wandering around Munich on a Monday afternoon. So you can definitely visit outside of Oktoberfest and get to experience true Bavarian culture, which is deeply engrained in Munich.

The best time to visit Munich: Munich is the perfect summer city, when the temperatures are warm and the city is bustling. But, if you’re a fan of Christmas markets, the Bavaria region is also home to some of Germany’s famous Christmas markets, and easily some of best Christmas markets in Europe.

How many days in Munich? For a first time visit, I would recommend three days in Munich. However, if you’re schedule is a bit tight, you can see a lot in two days.

things to do in munich

Take a history tour

Munich is a city filled with history and stories. Many of these stories would be impossible to uncover if you toured the city on your own. Because it was such a history-rich city, we knew it was important to enlist the experts. We signed up for two different tours with Sandeman’s Walking Tours Munich and we were so happy we did. If you’re looking for free things to do in Munich, this is a great option!

Free Munich Walking Tour: This free walking tour of Munich is the best Munich walking tour to get to know the highlights of the city. You’ll spend 2.5 hours learning about different historical buildings, hearing their stories, and learning all about Munich’s history. If you’re only going to do one tour, this one is the one to do. And, it’s a tips-based tour, which means you pay what you think the tour is worth.

Munich Third Reich Tour: If you’re interested in learning about Nazi history in Munich, this is the tour to take. On this 3 hour tour, you will stand directly in some of the most historical spots of this era, hear stories of the rise of National Socialism and Nazi reign, and visit memorial sites. Tour cost is 15 euros.

the best munich beer garden in Munich

Beer halls and beer gardens are synonymous with Munich. Here you’ll find both tourists in locals hanging out, drinking steins, and eating pretzels and bratwurst. You’re sure to see local friend groups visiting in their traditional clothing, and it is truly the best place to immerse yourself in the Bavarian beer culture.

Fun Fact: All local German beers are required to follow the “Bavarian purity law,” which was enacted in 1516. This laws means that you can only use four ingredients – barley, hops, yeast, and water – to brew beer. As a result, all beers are to be brewed to the same standard, so you’re going to find almost identical beers at each beer garden. However, each beer garden or hall has their own history and unique atmosphere that makes them special so I’d definitely visit more than just one!

What kind of beer will you find at a Munich beer garden? At each beer garden or hall, you’ll typically have a choice of two or three types of German beer: Helles (a lager), Radler (also known as a shandy), and maybe a Weissbier (wheat beer). Some will also serve a Dunkel, which is a dark Garman lager.

You’ll find them scattered all over the city, but here’s a few of the best:

Augustiner-Keller Beer Garden: My personal favourite, this central spot seats over 5000 visitors. Situated in a massive green space lined with picnic tables in the middle of the city, this spot is so much fun in the evenings for a massive German pretzel and Augustiner beer.
Chinesischer Turm Beer Garden: This beer garden in the English Gardens is a favourite with tourists and students, and is the perfect spot to stop for a beer on a hot summer day which exploring the park. With seats for over 7000, this is Munich’s second-largest beer garden.
Hofbräuhaus Beer Hall: A traditional beer hall with an outdoor garden space, Hofbräuhaus is the most famous beer hall in Munich – and probably in the entire world. Founded in 1589 by the Duke of Bavaria, it has a rich history in Bavarian beer culture and has been home to many historical events over many centuries, including hosting Hitler’s first speech (and many subsequent speeches).

In true Bavarian tradition, opt for a 1-litre stein of Helles beer, the most common German beer. If you are looking for something a bit lighter, a Radler blends lemonade and beer.

Take a Dachau Concentration Camp Tour

If you’re looking for a very sobering history experience, a visit to Dachau Concentration Camp is a way to pay your respects to the victims of Nazi Germany. While I think it is very difficult to put this experience into words, because it is something that should be experienced, I can recommend you great tour company to make the most of this experience.

In Their Shoes Dachau Memorial Tours is one of the best historical tours I have ever been on. Tour guide and owner James came to Munich because of his interest in WWII history, and knows so much about Dachau history, the people involved, and many other untold stories. He is truly one of the best tour guides I have ever had.

From my experiences visiting both Dachau and Auschwitz, I can say that while visiting a concentration camp memorial is a difficult experience (and certainly not for everyone), they are best visited with a knowledgeable and respectful tour guide. I can’t recommend James’ tour enough if you are planning to visit Dachau Concentration Camp.

Visit the Englischer Garten (English Gardens Munich)

Located in the centre of Munich, Englischer Garten (or English Gardens) is a great place for a walk or bike ride through the city. The park is huge – 3.75 square kilometres to be exact, which makes it bigger than Central Park! The gardens are beautiful, and here you can also stop at the Chinesischer Turm Beer Garden for an afternoon beer, which I mentioned above.

In the summer months, you can’t miss the Munich surfers who take their boards out for a ride in the Eisbach River. At the spot where the river begins near Haus der Kunst, you can find large crowds admiring and cheering on the surfers of Munich.

Fancy taking a dip on a hot day? You can go for a swim in Munich along the Eisbach River. You’ll notice that the locals who aren’t keen on surfing will often choose to hop in and float down the river – and you can do this too!

marienplatz

Marienplatz is home to Munich’s “New Town Hall,” Neues Rathaus, which is arguably the most iconic building Munich. A stop by this spot is a must to marvel in the stunning neo-Gothic building. The building was spared from destruction during WWII because it was used as a orientation landmark in the centre of the city.

The best time to visit Marienplatz is at 11:00 am or 12:00 pm all year round, or at 5:00 pm between March and October only, when the iconic Glockenspiel loudly chimes while small figurines dance telling a story of Munich’s history. This daily tradition dates back to 1908!

Climb to the top of St. Peter's Church Tower Munich

Looking for the best views of Munich? Climb to the top of St. Peter’s Church and you’ll be greeted by a never-ending sea of orange rooftops.

St. Peter’s Church Munich Cost: The church itself is free to visit, but it costs 2 euros to climb to the top of St. Peter’s Church Tower.

Shop Around at Viktualienmarkt

Located in the old town centre, Viktualienmarkt (Victuals Market) is one of my favourite spots in Munich. Here you’ll find many vendors set up selling food and other local goods. It’s a great place to grab lunch or pick up souvenirs. There’s also a popular beer garden located in the centre of the market.

Viktualienmarkt Hours: Open Monday to Saturday from 8:00 am – 6:00 pm (closed on Sundays).

Marvel at Asam Church

I can’t recommend Asam Church in Munich enough! This over-the-top baroque style church is arguably the most unique church I have ever seen. Built in the mid-18th century the interior of the church is small, but the details and quirks of the design will blow you away.

Visit the Munich Residenz

A former royal palace, the Munich Residenz is a must see. It is home to an impressive museum, and the interior is extravagantly beautiful. If you don’t feel like visiting the interior, it is at least worth stopping by the palace grounds. the courtyard and gardens are stunning.

Where to stay in Munich?

I’ve stayed at two different properties in Munich – both budget-friendly and a bit of a splurge – and would highly recommend both of them. The are both located right around the corner from each other near the Munich central station, and are within close walking and biking distance from most main attractions.

Best Hostel in Munich: Wombat’s City Hostel Munich is honestly one of my favourite hostels, ever. It is modern, has a great onsite bar, and many activities scheduled activities for making friends with other travellers. I really recommend attending their beer hall tour. It was such a highlight of our time in Munich.

Best Hotel in Munich: I recently stayed at 25hours Hotel Munich The Royal Bavarian and it blew me away. I loved it so much I wrote a detailed blog post about the property. You can check it out here!

Neuschwanstein Castle

Next on this Bavaria Germany road trip, head from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle.

A visit to the famed fairy tale castle that inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle is a must. This place is seriously magical and belongs on every Germany itinerary. Neuschwanstein Castle is often typically a day trip from Munich, but I would recommend staying for at least one night if you have the time. Not only is the town of Füssen charming, but the alps region surrounding the castle is stunning.

I wrote all my tips for visiting Neuschwanstein in this Bavarian Alps Guide. Check it out!

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

From Neuschwanstein Castle by car, you can head up the famed Romantic Road toward the magical town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Along the Romantic Road, you’re bound to find may stop offs en route. And it is a beautiful drive.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is probably the most popular Bavarian town. Sure, it’s a bit touristy. But even still, you cannot miss this spot in Bavaria. Upon arrival, you’ll probably find it hard to believe that this town with its narrow streets and dozens of Christmas shops is real. Because it truly looks like a movie set.

On the topic of movies, I was SUPER excited to visit this town because this famed town was one of the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang locations – which was one of my favourite childhood movies! If you’ve seen the movie, you’ll recognize these iconic narrow streets from the terrifying scene when the kidnapper is searching for the children while they hid in the basement of an old house.

How much time in Rothenburg ob der Tauber? This town is quite small, and can be visited in a half day.

things to do in rothenburg ob der tauber

Truly the best thing to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is just wander. Ideally, early in the day is best. We arrived around 9:00 am and had the streets to ourselves. Here’s a few spots that you shouldn’t miss:

Plönlein: Want to get that famed Rothenburg Instagram photo where the road forks? This is your spot!
Town walls: The old town walls cover four kilometres around the town and offer many stunning lookout points.
Rathaus: Also known as the Rothenburg Town Hall, Rathaus is a stunning Baroque-style building located in Marktplatz.
Burggarten: The gardens are beautiful and here you’ll find a lookout point with stunning views of the valley that sits below the town.
Go Christmas shopping: Rothenburg is home to a huge assortment of Christmas stores selling ornaments and other decorations. The most famous is Kathe Wohlfahrt’s Christmas Shop.

Nuremberg

From Rothenburg ob der Tauber, head to the next stop on your Bavaria Germany road trip: Nuremberg. There are plenty of things to do in Nuremberg, and many hotel options, so I’d recommend spending a night here. Nuremberg is a famous tourism spot for history enthusiasts interested in WWII, but it is also home to a super charming old town, and is filled with history. In fact, the city was once regarded as the unofficial capital of The Holy Roman Empire.

While one day in Nuremberg is typically enough, if you find yourself wanting to day many things on my list, you may want to allocate more than a day to Nuremberg.

things to do in Nuremberg

Nuremberg is so much more than just WWII history. Wondering what to do in Nuremburg? I’ve got you covered:

Documentation Centre Nazi Party Rally Grounds: One of the most popular spots in Nuremburg, this is something you shouldn’t miss. Early National Socialist rallies took place in Nuremberg and is a good place to go to learn more about the Nazi’s rise to power in Bavaria.
Nuremberg Trials Museum: This famous location – specifically Courtroom 600 – was used to convict high-profile Nazi’s in the late 1940s. On the top floor of the building you will find the museum, which details the trials and convictions. Then, you can head down to Courtroom 600. Keep in mind this is an operating courtroom and on some days, it may not be possible to visit the room itself, but you can look through the windows
Kaiserburg: Nuremberg’s castle sits atop of Nuremberg Altstadt (Old Town) and dates back to the 14th century. While it admittedly wasn’t the most beautiful castle I saw in Germany, it is full of history and offers lovely panoramic views of the city.
Visit the many Nuremburg churches: I’d recommend St. Sebaldus Church and St. Lorenz Church.
Albrecht Dürer’s House tour: Take a tour of the half-timbered home previously owned by Germany’s most famous painter, Albrecht Dürer.
Wander the Nuremberg Altstadt: The old town of Nuremburg is beautiful, so make sure you take some time to just wander the canals and admire the old architecture.
Visit a beer garden: If you’re looking for a beer garden in Nuremberg, Restauration Kopernikus Biergarten is a great option!
Orrrr, a wine bar: If you’re feeling a bit tired of beer, Il Disperato Prosciutteria Weinbar was a favourite spot of mine and they served the most delicious charcuterie platters.

where to stay in nuremberg

I’ve stayed at two different properties in Nuremberg that I can recommend and both are fairly budget friendly. Both are located within or near the Altstadt and Central Station, and are within waking distance from many attractions.

Best Hostel in Munich: Five Reasons Hostel is a low key and clean hostel. Don’t expect a party vibe here, but the facilities were practical, the location is great within the old town walls, and it is very affordable.

Best Hotel in Munich: I recently stayed at Park Inn by Radisson Nürnberg and was the perfect spot for a short stay in Nuremberg. It’s located right outside the old town walls, offers parking, and the rooms were spacious and clean.

Bamberg

Let me just start off by saying that out of all the small Bavarian towns, Bamberg just may be my favourite. It’s incredibly charming, full of terraces and patios and canals, and is home to the famous Bamberg smoked beer. If you have to choose one town, I would (perhaps a bit controversially), tell you to visit Bamberg.

If you’re wondering how long to stay in Bamberg, I’d say a half day is enough. Here’s some tips of things to do and some photos to inspire you!

things to do in bamberg

Try Bamberg’s famous smoked beer: Schlenkerla Smokebeer is a historic smoked beer brewery in Bamberg dating back to the 1400s where the beer is brewed according to centuries old traditions involving open fire that gives it the smokey taste, It is brewed in 600-year-old-cellars and Schlenkerla is one of only two breweries left in the world making beer in this traditional way. While the beer was very smokey and just not really my thing, it was super cool to try.
Bamberg Cathedral: Founded in the 11th century during The Holy Roman Empire rule, this church is truly stunning. Inside you can visit the tomb of Henry II and his wife, who were buried in a tomb that took 14 years to carve.
Altes Rathus: Perhaps the most easily recognized building in Bamberg, this fresco-covered “Bamberg town hall” building sits over one of Bamberg’s canals. It dates back to the 1300s and is Bamberg’s most popular building for a reason – it is beautiful!
Neue Residenz: This palace sits on top of the city, and has beautiful gardens (called Rosengarten). The grounds of the palace also offer the best view of Bamberg’s orange-roofed skyline.
Try some unique ice cream flavours: We loved the unique ice cream flavours at Cafe Riffelmacher, like rose, orange basil, and cucumber. Just don’t make the mistake we made and take your ice cream to go. They charge a sitting fee and we were shocked when we got the bill.
And when in doubt, just wander: Similar to other Bavarian towns, you’ll find the most charming gems by just wandering. Try to leave the most touristy streets and head for some of the back alleys.

where to stay in bamberg

If you’re looking for an affordable and central hotel in Bamberg, a great choice is Ibis Styles Bamberg. While the hotel itself is mostly no frills, the rooms are modern and clean room, it offers onsite parking, and it sits in a great location within walking distance of all main attractions. I highly recommend choosing this hotel as home base in Bamberg.

A few more tips for visiting Bavaria

I had a few questions that came up consistently while I was on my Bavaria Germany road trip, and so I thought an extra little Q&A was in order to address them. Here’s a few of the most common questions.

Can you visit Bavaria by train? During my two trips to Bavaria I have travelled by both car and train, and I can confirm that both are very efficient ways of visiting the country. On my first trip, we travelled exclusively by train and in many ways, it was faster than having the car because we didn’t have to worry about finding parking. However, the car gave us a lot of flexibility to make stops, and stumble upon some hidden gems.

What is it like driving in Germany? Well, let me start by saying that I wasn’t the driver. But Sebastian found driving in Germany quite easy. German’s are fantastic drivers, the road conditions were perfect, and the road signage was truly impressive.

How much does it cost to visit Germany? To travel in Bavaria, and Germany in general, I would suggest having a moderate budget. From my personal experience, Germany is a lot cheaper than most western European countries I’ve visited. A decent private hotel room cost us about 70 euros a night, a half-litre of beer ranged from 3-5 euros, and you could typically find a meal for around 10 euros. Of course, there are many ways to save too by choosing cheaper accommodations, grabbing drinks at the grocery store, or eating street food.

Can you use credit cards in Germany? This is one thing that was not guaranteed. Coming from an almost cashless country, I couldn’t believe that Germany is largely cash-based. While we were able to use card at our hotels and some restaurants, there are many restaurants, beer gardens, and tourist attractions that are cash-only. Even the machines to pay for parking were cash-only in many cases. So moral of the story… Make sure you always have some cash on you.

Looking to extend your trip?
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October 8, 2020 8 comments

Travel City Guide Germany

The Perfect Mosel Valley Itinerary: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting German Wine Country

by madelineraeaway September 22, 2020

Germany wine country was something I didn’t know much about prior to planning our summer 2020 trip to Germany. I stumbled upon the Mosel Valley while drafting our German road trip itinerary from Sweden down to the German Alps, and I began looking at the best places for us to stop along the way. I had heard about the towns of the Rhine Valley, but I had never heard of the Mosel Valley before. However, the more I looked into it I was convinced that we must spend a couple days here and began putting together a Mosel Valley itinerary.

I mean… Wine and vineyards and quintessentially romantic German villages? Count me in!

I was a little bit skeptical to share this magical gem, because I feel like it is still largely off the main tourism trail. While we were there, it seemed that many locals had caught on to how special this sleepy region is, but it seems to still be off the radar of international tourists.

For those of you hearing about this region for the first time, the Mosel River runs through central-western Germany and is home to he most perfect little towns. You could spend days and days town-hopping along the Mosel River and admiring the almost-90-degree vineyards that scale the side of the river. But, if you only have a couple days like us, I’m going to give you the details on all the places you can’t miss!

SUmmary: OUr two-day mosel valley itinerary

Day 1: Spend the afternoon in Cochem

We arrived in Cochem on our first day around lunchtime. We spent a half-day wandering around Cochem, visiting the Cochem castle, wine tasting, and just enjoying the scenic town.

Day 2: Sunrise at Burg Eltz

A trip to Burg Eltz Castle cannot be missed when visiting the Mosel Valley. We opted to get up early at 5:30am to visit Burg Eltz for sunrise. However, if you aren’t an early bird, you can visit on your first day in the Mosel Valley before arriving in Cochem.

Day 2: Town-hopping in the Mosel Valley

After we returned from Burg Eltz, we checked out of our hotel and spent the day driving from town-to-town along the Mosel River. Keep reading to learn about my favourite towns!

Day 2: Spend the Night in Bacharach

At the end of the day, we headed back to the Rhine River to spend the evening in the sleepy historic town of Bacharach.

The best Mosel Valley towns

There are so many charming towns along the Mosel River to include in your Mosel Valley itinerary, you could get lost in back alleyways of half-timbered houses for weeks. The most picturesque part of the Mosel Valley lies between the area of Cochem and Traben-Trarbach. Here was a few of the best towns to visit in the Mosel Valley.

the most popular town: cochem

If you only have time to visit one town, Cochem is the best town in the Mosel Valley. And while it may be the most popular too, this is for good reason. It is home to stunning views of the Mosel River, is littered in hundreds-year-old half-timbered houses, and has a castle sitting atop of the town.

If you’re looking for the where to stay in the Mosel Valley, Cochem is a great home base. We stayed at Haus Christiane, a cosy little family-owned pension in the centre of town, with free parking and an amazing homemade breakfast included.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Cochem, here’s some of my top recommendations:

Visit Cochem Castle: You can’t visit Cochem without going up to Cochem Castle. To get there, you’ll follow signs through narrow half-timbered alleyways and vineyards to the top of the town. From there, you can visit the castle grounds and you’ll also be welcomed by beautiful views of the town below.

Wine Tasting in the Mosel Valley: The Mosel Valley is home to German Mosel Valley Riesling wine, and doing a tasting in the region in a must. Around Cochem, you’re sure to find lots of spots to stop in for a tasting.

Indulge in German Food: Full disclosure, I really struggled with the food in the Mosel Valley. It was very meat-heavy and fried, which isn’t my thing. But, we enjoyed the atmosphere at the Alte Wein Wirtschaft “Wine Terrasse” and I was able to indulge in some pretty decent vegetarian Flammkuchen (Germany’s take on “pizza”).

Wander Without a Plan: This town is made for wandering! Make sure you take some time to cross the bridge and explore both sides of the town. Plus, you’ll find the absolute best views of Cochem from the bridge (especially at sunrise and sunset).

ernst

We really loved Ernst because it felt more local. Historical homes with children playing outside. Winding cobblestone streets. And if you want to the backside of the town, there are plenty of vineyards you can wander through and explore! You don’t need much time here, but the parking along the main road is free, and I found it to be really charming.

beilstein

Beilstein was an easy favourite for me! This town is one of the best-preserved in the Mosel Valley, it looked like it was straight out of a fairy tale. The small settlement dates back to 800 AD and atop the town you can visit the ruins of an old castle. The narrow streets are perfect for wandering, and you’re guaranteed to find a whole lot of places to take photos.

Make time to visit the ruins of Castle Metternich, which was constructed in the 1200s. There is a small fee to enter, but it is absolutely worth it and the views of the Mosel River from the top are stunning.

I would recommend you spend 1-2 hours in Beilstein.

zell

We didn’t spend much time in Zell, but we did make a stop here for a wine tasting. Zell is home to Zeller Schwarze Katz, or “Zell’s Black Cat.” The photo of the towns black cat mascot is on every bottle of wine, and has origins on folklore tales of the town. While wandering through Zell, you’re bound to come across many variations of black cat statues, sculptures, figurines souvenirs, and paintings of the iconic black cat (usually holding a glass of riesling).

I’d highly recommend stopping into this town for a tasting like we did. Although the black cat obsession may seem a bit silly, we loved the wine sourced from “black cat mountain” so much we bought a few bottles to bring home.

traben-trarbach

The last stop on my Mosel Valley itinerary is Traben-Trarbach, which dates back to 830. And this one is really charming! This is a great place to unwind at the end of your day Mosel Valley town-hopping, and you’re guaranteed to find a great glass of wine here. For hiking enthusiasts, there are some great trails around here too that take you into the vineyards.

looking for all these spots?
i've got you covered with a mosel valley map!

How to get around the Mosel Valley

Mosel Valley by Car: In the interest of time, we opted to drive around the Mosel Valley. Driving alongside the Mosel River was beautiful, and we found the region easy to navigate by car. You’ll normally find Mosel Valley parking lots along the river side at the foot of each town. In less popular towns, parking is typically free. However, you’ll have to pay a small amount in more popular towns, like Cochem or Beilstein, so make sure you have change for the parking meters.

Mosel Valley by Bike: We saw many people biking in the Mosel Valley from town-to-town. If we had more time, I would have loved this option. There were bike paths alongside the river connecting the towns, which meant it was easy and safe to bike.

Mosel Valley by Foot: If you’re feeling adventurous and have a lot of time to spend in the regions, you’ll find lots of Mosel Valley hiking paths leading through the vineyards and connecting the towns.

Things to Do near the mosel valley

burg eltz castle

If you are going to do ONE thing when you’re in this region, this is it. I absolutely love Burg Eltz. Dare I say it may even be my favourite castle in Germany?

My biggest tip for visiting Burg Eltz Castle: Go early. We arrived at the Burg Eltz parking lot around 6:00 am, paid for parking, and walked about 20 minutes through the forest trail to get to the castle. We were so happy to have the castle grounds all to ourselves, and to be greeted by the most perfect morning light.

If you want to visit the castle interior, Burg Eltz opening hours are from 9:30-5:30 for tours, and you can take a Burg Eltz shuttle to the castle if you don’t want to walk. If you are interested in taking a tour, please check the Burg Eltz website for language availability, as most tours are done in English.

Burg Eltz tour price: 11 euro for adults

visit the town of bacharach

Want to be transported directly into a Brothers Grimm story? The sleepy town of Bacharach looks like a real life Hansel and Gretal fairytale. Bacharach was named after Bacchus, the god of wine. To this day, the town is known for having great local wine and attracts wine enthusiasts from around the world.

With narrow streets filled with half-timbered houses, the best thing to do in Bacharach is just to get lost with a camera in hand. However, here’s some other must-do things to do in Bacharach:

Burg Stahleck: Atop of Bacharach sits a castle, Burg Stahleck. You can walk up to the top of the castle and take in beautiful views of the Rhine River from above. The castle is also home to Bacharach’s most unique hotel.
Go wine tasting at Weingut Fritz Bastian: If you’re looking to sample some local wines, this wine terrace is a great place to do a wine tasting. I’d also recommend having lunch or dinner here on a sunny day.
Altes Haus: Admire the oldest house in town that dates back to the 1300s!
Go for a hike: There are plenty of hiking trails surrounding the town Bacharach. The Rheinburgenweg (Rhine Castles Trail) leads you through vineyards, and past historical sites and castles.
St. Peter’s Church Bacharach: It would be impossible to miss St. Peter’s Church, with stands tall in the centre of Bacharach. This church can be admired from many viewpoints in the town, but don’t forget to take a look inside too!

get ready to fall in love with german's wine country with this mosel valley itinerary!

I was so pleasantly surprised by the Mosel Valley and I hope you use this Mosel Valley itinerary to have the best time in German wine country!

Heading down to German Alps? Check out my guide!

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September 22, 2020 6 comments

Travel City Guide Germany

Visiting the Bavarian Alps: Top Things to Do in Garmisch Partenkirchen

by madelineraeaway September 12, 2020

When you think about The Alps region, what countries do you think of. Often Switzerland comes to mind first… Then probably Austria and France, maybe even Italy. But often the German Alps are an overthought. This was my second time visiting the German Alps – also commonly known as the Bavarian Alps, because of it’s location in the Bavaria state of Germany. The first time I visited was earlier in my travelling days where just about everything seemed magical. And while I am still often very guilty of romanticizing travel experiences and enjoying every small detail, I was a bit worried that my return to Germany just wouldn’t be quite as special as it was the first time. Luckily, I was wrong.

As a more seasoned traveller, my summer trip to Germany focused on travelling a bit deeper in the country. I knew I wanted to return to the Alps. The last time I was in Germany, I visited to two locations that are typically at the top of every tourist itinerary: Berchtesgaden and the Füssen area (which is home to Neuschwanstein Castle). This time, my mountain adventures took me to the area of Garmisch Partenkirchen. A popular winter skiing destination in Germany, this area is home to Germany’s highest peak, Zugspitze, as well as many beautiful lakes, trails, and scaling mountains. So there is plenty of things to do in Garmisch Partenkirchen in the summer.

While this guide will focus mainly on things to do in Garmisch Partenkirchen (also known as GaPa … which is much easier to pronounce), I’ll also share some tips about things you must do in some of my other favourite Bavarian Alps regions.

THINGS TO DO IN Garmisch Partenkirchen

The Garmisch Partenkirchen area is a stunning mountain regions along southern Germany, hugging the Austrian border. It is about an hour south of Munich by car.

While GaPa, as locals so affectionately call it, is a popular winter sports destination, it is also an amazing place to visit in the summer months to enjoy the hiking and biking trails, and breathtaking mountain views. Here I’ll break down some of my favourite things to do in Garmisch Partenkirchen.

zugspitze: the highest peak in germany

I’m going to start off with the biggest attraction in GaPa, Zugspitze, which is the highest point in the German Alps. This peak can (literally) not be missed while you’re exploring the GaPa region, as it cascades over the towns. It really is quite impressive.

Now, full disclosure, we opted not to go up to the summit of Zugspitze. After talking to a few locals, and reading some forums, we arrived at the decision that the large price tag was simply not worth it to us. In fact, many people said that Zugspitze is best seen from the ground or other surrounding mountain summits (I’ll dish the details on some of these spots in my next recommendations).

Is Zugspitze worth it? This is a difficult question to answer for someone who didn’t go up to the summit. However, I have heard the views are incredible and many people seemed thrilled with their visit. One thing you’ll want to consider is what the weather is like on the day you plan on visiting. I have heard of many people going up on a clear day, only to discover the top of the mountain is covered in clouds and they are unable to see anything. I would highly recommend checking out this link to see the current cloud coverage and weather conditions. This should help you make the right decision for you.

How much does Zugspitze cost? You’ll pay 59.50 EUR per person for an Adult to venture to the top (prices are reduced for children). You can check out the latest prices here.

Want to know the best Zugspitze alternative? I’ve got you covered…

take a cable car to the top of karwendelspitze in mittenwald

If you’re looking for a Zugspitze alternative, this is it. In fact, I would visit this mountaintop either way because it was truly fantastic. Karwendelspitze is the second-highest peak in Germany, and from the top you can get a panoramic view of the German and Austrian mountains below. At the top you’ll find hiking trails suitable for families and beginners with many lookout points and a restaurant to grab a beer or food.

Similar to my Zugspitze recommendations, this spot is best visited on a clear day. You can check out the live cam here to view current weather conditions. When we visited Karwendelspitze, it was the most perfectly clear day. And, ironically, you could see Zugspitze covered in clouds in the distance. When considering what to wear to Karwendelspitze, it is important to remember this is a mountaintop, and temperatures are much chillier than they are on group. In August, I needed to wear a sweater.

How to get to Karwendelspitze peak: To get up the peak, you’ll want to hop on the Karwendelbahn cable car. From there, it takes around ten minutes to get up to the summit.

How much does the Karwendelbahn cable car cost? It is significantly cheaper to visit Karwendelspitze vs. Zugspitze, with the price tag of 32.50 EUR per adult (check here for latest prices).

enjoy sunrise at lake eibsee

Lake Eibsee is a top attraction in the GaPa region and when you see it, you’ll understand why. This lake is the perfect hue of turquoise, with a stunning view of Zugspitze sitting atop the lake.

The best time to visit Lake Eibsee: While Lake Eibsee is beautiful at any time of the day, it can get quite busy in the afternoon with tourists. For that reason, I suggest getting up at sunrise like we did. We ran into a few early risers and photographers, but mostly had the area to ourselves. And the lighting over the lake was almost surreal.

Just take a look at these photos and dream of visiting Eibsee.

Where are the best Lake Eibsee photography spots? I wanted to know where to go to get the perfect shot at Eibsee and stumbled upon this blog post. Check it out for all the best photo spots, and other details about visiting Lake Eibsee.

Cost to visit Lake Eibsee: Free! But if you’re arriving by car, you’ll need to pay to park your car at Hotel Eibsee. The cost for early risers was slightly discounted to 2.50 EUR, but this can vary depending on the time of day you visit.

the best hiking in Garmisch Partenkirchen

Since we arrived in GaPa in the middle of an August heatwave, we weren’t feeling too ambitious to go on an overly complicated hike, so we were mainly focused on easy hikes. Many people choose to hike on the Zugspitze side of the mountain range, but because of mudslides a few days prior, we were recommended to opt for the mountain range opposite the highest peak.

Our hotel concierge recommended the St. Martinshütte hike and we were off. Along the route to this alpine rest stop you’ll come across beautiful nature, churches, and other stumble upons. If you’re feeling more ambitious than us (or perhaps if the weather is a bit cooler), continue up toward Eisenkanzel for a beautiful viewpoint. Just make sure you stop at the restaurant at St. Martinshütte for an ice cold beer (or water) on the way.

Another great location for beginner hikes is the trails behind the Olympic Ski Jump. To get there, head to the famed ski jump and follow the trails that lead behind.

For more GaPa hiking trails, click here.

explore gapa by bike

There are many mountain biking trails surrounding GaPa, and you can read about some of these trails here.

We opted for a bit of a more leisurely bike ride (however I use that term lighting because there were SO many steep hills) and rented e-bikes from our hotel. We had a blast riding the e-bikes through the mountainside trails. For a leisurely ride and beautiful views, explore the bike paths south of the town of GaPa, along the Olympic Trail. This historical path starts at the Olympic Ski Jump and heads west toward Grainau (you can see the views from this ride in the photo below). Here’s a map of the route.

Additionally, if you want to bike into the mountains instead of hiking, you can take your bikes to St. Martinshütte, which is the location I recommended for hiking,

visit partnach gorge

Partnach Gorge is another beautiful location located near GaPa, and is easily one of the most popular tourist hot spots of the region. We didn’t visit this spot because it was actually closed due to high water. In the days prior to our visit, the region was experiencing 30-40 mm of rain a day. Luckily we just missed it and were greeted with perfect weather.

Even still, I’ve heard this place is absolutely beautiful so I still wanted to include it on the list.

be blown away at geroldsee

Once of the most breathtaking spots we visited was Geroldsee, a lake located in the tiny town of Gerold, near GaPa. The lake is a popular swimming spot, but is also a dream location for photographers who are looking to capture that perfect “The Sound of Music”-inspired moment. It was easily one of my favourite things to do in Garmisch Partenkirchen.

How to get to Geroldsee: Head to the town of Gerold and park your car in town. From town, you’ll see signs to hiking paths and the lake. Follow these signs and you’ll be greeted by these insane views of Geroldsee with mountains cascading in the distance.

Tip: If you’re having trouble locating Geroldsee on a map, look up Wagenbrüchsee, which is another name or the lake.

relax at a garmisch partenkirchen spa

The region offers many alpine spas to relax and unwind with beautiful views of the mountains. We stayed at Hotel Staudacherhof, a spa hotel in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and it was the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Onsite the spa had indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, sauna, showers, and plenty of spots to lounge in the sun. You can also book onsite treatments, like massages and manicures.

Check out a list of other GaPa spas here.

trying to locate all these amazing things? i've got you covered.
here's a map of things to do in garmisch partenkirchen!

Looking to extend your trip?
Here's some Other towns in the Bavarian Alps to consider.

There are so many towns in the Bavarian Alps, it can be overwhelming to know which ones to visit. While I still have many spots in The German Alps to visit, here’s a couple of my other tops pics for first time visitors!

Füssen to see Neuschwanstein Castle

No trip to the German Alps is complete without visiting Neuschwanstein Castle. The famed castle is said to have been a huge inspiration for Walt Disney, and the parallels between this popular tourist spot and Cinderella’s Castle are uncanny. It is truly magical, and is only an hour away by car from GaPa, which makes it easy to visit both.

A few quick Neuschwanstein Castle tips:

Arrive early, ideally as early as sunrise (or alternatively at sunset). This spot gets VERY busy with day trip visitors from Munich and is best experienced during these quiet hours,
Make sure you take a tour! The stories of King Ludwig II were so interesting, and the interior is so special.
Stay overnight in Füssen or Schwangau and enjoy the region. This area has so many more gems than just Neuschwanstein Castle to explore. Hohenschwangau Castle is another castle nearby, and although I didn’t do a tour, it was fun to explore the grounds. Schwansee and Alpsee are also really gorgeous lakes. And if you’re looking for a bit of a thrill in the mountains, the summertime luge tracks in Schwangau are really fun!

Berchtesgaden

The Berchtesgaden region is stunning. I really wanted to visit this spot again, but we simple just did not have time. However, if you are looking to extend your trip in the Bavarian Alps, this spot is amazing. Here’s a few things to do in Berchtesgaden:

Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest: This historical spot is a really interesting piece of history that I would highly recommend visiting (especially on a clear day).
The Berchtesgaden Salt Mines: We visited this spot a few years ago, and quite honestly, I wasn’t blown away. It was interesting, but I could take it or leave. However I figured I would mention it since it is a popular spot for visitors.
Königssee and Obersee: These lakes have become VERY Instagram famous in recent years, so it’s a popular spot for photographers. With that being said, they are gorgeous and I’ve heard the boat ride across Königssee is a great experience.
Parish Church of St. Sebastian: This pretty white church sits in front of the most beautiful mountain backdrop and has a turquoise river alongside it. It’s no wonder people love to visit it!

ready to head to the bavarian alps?

Now that I have told you all my favourite things to go in Garmisch Partenkirchen and The Bavarian Alps, are you feeling eager to visit? This area is such a gem that I am surprised more people don’t visit. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway in nature, this spot absolutely needs to be considered.

Heading to Munich? Check out my post on my favourite Munich hotel!

Heading on a Germany road trip?
Check out some of my other Germany content!

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September 12, 2020 16 comments

City Guide

How Many Days in Florence?

The Highlights: 3-Day Florence Itinerary

3-DAY FLORENCE ITINERARY Details:14 Touristy and Unusual things to do in Florence

get up early to experience the marvel of david

Come face-to-face with some of the world's most famous art at The Uffizi Gallery

Skip the crowds + Experience early morning golden hour at the Duomo di Firenze

Climb 463 steps to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome

Eat your heart out in FLorence's food scene

Experience of the best of Florentine food culture with a Florence Food Tour

Things to do in FLorence at Night: Bar-Hop at the trendiest bars in Oltrarno

Admire the best views of the city at Piazzale Michelangelo

Visit a touristy florence food market - and then head to a more local spot

Take a stroll around Boboli Gardens

Cross the river via Ponte Vecchio - a few times

Make it your mission to find the best gelato in FLorence

Take a day trip from Florence to the Tuscany Countryside

Just wander the narrow city streets

Where to stay in Florence

Need help finding these unusual things to do in Florence? Here's a map!

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Things to Do in HelsingborgSkip Ahead To...

Here's 10 things to do in Helsingborg to have the perfect weekend getaway in Sweden

1. Climb the steps up to Kärnan watchtower

2. Step back in time at Sofiero Palace and Gardens

3. Explore the city by bike

4. Go beer tasting at a local brewery: Barski

5. Take a pottery class at Wallåkra Stenkärlsfabrik

6. Eat famous tomato pie at Miss Alice Krog & Delikatesser

7. Take a walk along the water at Groningen (+ go swimming if you dare!)

8. Enjoy a seaside dinner with a view at Sillen & Makrillen

9. Chocolate-tasting at an award-winning chocolatier: Chocolatte

10. Take the Helsingborg to Helsingør ferry to visit the famous Hamlet castle in Denmark

Where to stay: The best Helsingborg hotel

Feelin' ready for your visit? Here's the only map of things to do in Helsingborg that you'll ever need!

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a few quick facts about berlin:━language | germancurrency | europopulation | 3.76 milliondiversity | over 190 nationalities are represented in berlinsize | 891.8 km² (that's 9 times the size of paris!)

15 unusual things to do in Berlin

Pay your respects at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Visit the world's Longest open air gallery: East Side Gallery

Take a historical Berlin bike tour

Snap a Quick Photo of Brandenburger Tor (Brandenburg Gate) ... And then move on

Bar-Hop at the best bars in Kreuzberg

Berlin Food Guide: Experience Berlin’s trendy food scene

Snap a photo at one of the most instagrammable Places in Berlin (and then grab dinner!)

Admire the best berlin street art at RAW Berlin and Urban Spree Berlin

Visit the best photoautomat Berlin locations to snap a photo

Visit the iconic Reischtag Dome

Learn about berlin's history at the Berlin Wall memorial

Visit Berlin’s most beautiful book store: Umbras Kuriositatenkabinett

Stay at the coolest Hotel in Berlin – with views of the Berlin Zoo

Visit Berlin’s Quirkiest Neighbourhoods: Kreuzberg and Graefekiez (the ultimate Berlin Photography Spots!)

Grab a bite to eat at Markthalle Neun Erste (Market Hall Nine)

Need help finding these unusual things to do in Berlin? Here's a map!

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recommended bavaria germany road trip itinerary━5-7 days | 5 destinations

Munich, Germany

things to do in munich

Take a history tour

the best munich beer garden in Munich

Take a Dachau Concentration Camp Tour

Visit the Englischer Garten (English Gardens Munich)

marienplatz

Climb to the top of St. Peter's Church Tower Munich

Shop Around at Viktualienmarkt

Marvel at Asam Church

Visit the Munich Residenz

Where to stay in Munich?

Neuschwanstein Castle

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

things to do in rothenburg ob der tauber

Nuremberg

things to do in Nuremberg

where to stay in nuremberg

Bamberg

things to do in bamberg

where to stay in bamberg

A few more tips for visiting Bavaria

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SUmmary: OUr two-day mosel valley itinerary

3-DAY FLORENCE ITINERARY Details:
14 Touristy and Unusual things to do in Florence

Things to Do in Helsingborg
Skip Ahead To...

Feelin' ready for your visit?
Here's the only map of things to do in Helsingborg that you'll ever need!

a few quick facts about berlin:
━
language | german
currency | euro
population | 3.76 million
diversity | over 190 nationalities are represented in berlin
size | 891.8 km² (that's 9 times the size of paris!)

recommended bavaria germany road trip itinerary
━
5-7 days | 5 destinations

looking for all these spots?
i've got you covered with a mosel valley map!

trying to locate all these amazing things? i've got you covered.
here's a map of things to do in garmisch partenkirchen!

Looking to extend your trip?
Here's some Other towns in the Bavarian Alps to consider.