Last updated on November 15th, 2025
Planning a 10 day Germany itinerary and you want to do it only by public transport? I can help! I’ve explored a part of this beautiful country by rail, and it’s an awesome way to see the sights. I even did it alone, so that should tell you that it’s totally doable. With stops in vibrant cities like Nuremberg and Munich, plus charming towns along the way, you’ll get a great taste of Germany in just 10 days.
Germany’s train system is extensive, clean, and comfy. There’s a caveat though. Be prepared for delays and cancellations by building in extra connection times and minimizing connections all together. If you can do that, you won’t be stressed about getting to places. The country’s Deutschland Ticket gives you great value while allowing you to be as flexible as possible. Plus, the train stations are often very close to the city centers, making it super easy to start exploring as soon as you arrive.
My favorite part about this Germany trip itinerary is how it mixes big city energy with quieter spots. One day you might be checking out modern restaurants and bars, and the next you’re wandering cobblestone streets in a fairytale-like town. It’s the perfect blend of history, culture, and fun. I hope by the end of this article, you’ll be planning your next adventure in Germany!
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What Can You See With 10 Days in Germany?
With 10 days in Germany, you can explore some amazing cities, castles, architecture, and landscapes. I’ve found that focusing on just one or two regions gives you the best experience without rushing around too much. You will also cut down on travel times and unnecessary train delays that have become a bit too common in Germany. I chose to explore the southern half of Germany.
Why South Germany is Great for First-timers
South Germany is perfect for a first trip and for varying interests. It’s packed with famous sights and beautiful scenery. You can visit Munich, the capital of Bavaria, known for its beer halls and Oktoberfest. The city’s Marienplatz square is a must-see, with its stunning New Town Hall and Glockenspiel clock.
From Munich, you can take day trips to fairytale castles like Neuschwanstein. It’s the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle! The nearby Alps offer breathtaking views and great hiking spots. A completely different landscape awaits you in the Rhine and Mosel valleys in the south west.
Don’t miss charming towns along the Romantic Road and in wine country. Rothenburg ob der Tauber feels just like it’s pulled straight from the pages of a fairy tale with its medieval walls and half-timbered houses.
Where to Start and End the Journey
I suggest starting your trip in Frankfurt. It’s a major transport hub with a big airport, making it easy to arrive and get your bearings. From there, you can hop on a train to your first destination.
For the end of your journey, Munich is ideal. It’s a fun city to finish up in, with great food, beer gardens, and parks to relax in after all your traveling. You can shop for German souvenirs of all kinds. Plus, it has good flight connections for heading home.
Navigating Current Deutsche Bahn Problems
I took many train trips across southern Germany, and while Deutsche Bahn connects almost everywhere, there can be hiccups. Delays and cancellations do happen, especially on busy routes or during peak travel times.
Always check your journey the day before and again on travel day several times right up to your journey. The DB Navigator app is great for this – it gives real-time updates on delays and platform changes.
If your train is cancelled, don’t panic! Head to the information desk or find a DB employee on the platform. They can often rebook you on the next available train at no extra cost. If you have a pass or ticket that lets you take any train on the same route, then consider just taking the next one that arrives if it’s not too late for you.
Some common issues I’ve faced:
- Unexpected track changes
- Delayed connections
- Overcrowded trains
To avoid stress, I always build in extra time between connections. Forty five minutes to an hour buffer can be a lifesaver if your first train runs late.
Remember, Deutsche Bahn offers compensation for significant delays:
- 25% refund for delays over 1 hour
- 50% refund for delays over 2 hours
Keep your ticket and fill out the refund form online or at a station.
Lastly, be flexible. Sometimes taking a slightly longer route or a regional train instead of an ICE can get you there faster if there are issues on the main line.
Selecting a Rail Pass
When planning my 10-day Germany trip by train, I found the Deutschland ticket to be a game-changer. It’s a monthly subscription pass that costs 58€ (will increase to 63€ from January 2026) and gives you unlimited rides on regional trains and public transport across the country, including S-bahns, metros, buses, and trams. For a 10-day trip, it was much cheaper than buying individual tickets, especially since I needed to use public transport in cities too.
I bought my Deutschland ticket online through the Tranzer website. The reason I didn’t buy it through the DB app or Deutsch Bahn website or any other official German sales point is because it’s sold as a rolling monthly subscription that renews automatically on the 10th of each month. If your trip extends beyond that date, you’d need to continue with an extra month. And, if you want to cancel the subscription, you have to do it before the 10th of that month. Most of them also ask for a German address and bank account so that the monthly payment is deducted automatically.
As you can see, the Deutschland ticket is designed to be used by locals, not tourists. One or two other websites do sell the ticket without automatically renewing every month, but they don’t accept foreign credit cards, let you use Paypal, or have an option to book the ticket in English. I finally found a couple of options that sell the Deutschland ticket for tourists and settled on Tranzer. It was easy to use, accepted my credit card, and it was a one time payment.
Whichever app or website you use, get the digital version on your phone. You will need to load it into your Apple or Google Wallet and show it to any inspector that asks when you’re using a valid mode of transport.
One thing to keep in mind: The ticket doesn’t cover high-speed ICE or IC trains. I had 4 journeys to take using those and bought separate tickets for them in advance to take advantage of lower prices. If you wait too long after tickets for your travel date go on sale, you can end up spending quite a lot.
If you prefer faster travel between major cities and several of them are over a long distance, look into the German Rail Pass. It covers all trains, including ICE and IC, but costs more. Weigh your options based on your itinerary and budget.
Remember to always have your passport with you when using these passes. Conductors often check ID along with tickets.
If you don’t get a pass for regional trains or need to travel on ICE or IC trains, I recommend using Omio to book single or roundtrip train journeys.
Accommodation Tips
Booking places to stay in Germany isn’t tricky, and every traveler will have personal preferences, but for this itinerary, location is key. I stayed at hotels near the main train station in each city. This made day trips a breeze and saved tons of time.
Luggage Advice
Packing light is key for this 10-day train trip through Germany. I’ve learned this the hard way! Stick to a carry-on size rolling suitcase and a backpack if you can. It’s much easier to navigate train stations and store your bag on board.
Most German trains have overhead racks for smaller bags. For larger suitcases, there are usually storage areas at the ends of each car. Just keep an eye on your stuff when the train stops.
Pack a small day bag for excursions. I use a foldable backpack that takes up almost no space when not in use.
Remember, you can do laundry on longer trips. Some hotels offer this service, or you can find a laundromat in bigger cities. It’s better than lugging around tons of clothes.
What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Germany?
I found early fall is ideal for a German adventure if you don’t like crowds. September to October offers a sweet spot of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Keep in mind that Oktoberfest, which starts in mid-September and ends in the first week of October, happens all through Germany and not just in Munich. Beer halls and beer gardens will be busy, but so will trains. Hotel prices are a bit higher during this time in some places and a lot higher in Munich. Book accommodations early if you’re planning to attend Oktoberfest in Munich. Prices skyrocket and rooms fill up fast.
If you’re not into beer, then everything else will be pleasantly uncrowded. My own trip started in the last week of Oktoberfest and ended in Munich after it ended. Even the most touristy places didn’t feel too crowded.
The temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing, usually ranging from 12-25°C (59-77°F). I loved strolling through cities and towns without breaking a sweat or shivering in the cold. Fall brings stunning foliage. The changing colors make for gorgeous photos and scenic train rides.
Keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable. Always pack a light jacket to go over a sweater and include an umbrella, just in case.
The Perfect Southern Germany Itinerary for 10 Days
I’ve put together an awesome 10-day journey by train (combined with short bus rides) through Germany that hits all the highlights. This trip takes you from vibrant cities to charming towns, giving you a taste of everything Germany has to offer.
Here’s a quick breakdown of my travel itinerary for Germany:
| Days | Places | Overnight In |
|---|---|---|
| 1-3 | Koblenz, towns and castles along the Rhine and Mosel | Koblenz |
| 4-7 | Würzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bamberg | Würzburg |
| 8-10 | Nuremberg, choice of a day trip, Munich | Munich |
Let’s start with the Rhine and Mosel valleys. The absolute minimum number of full days here is 2 – one for each river. I had 3 and I could easily have added more days because this region is so beautiful!
This region is rural, in western Germany, and is easily accessible from Frankfurt. I recommend flying into Frankfurt and taking a direct train from the airport to Koblenz.
Koblenz as a base was perfect for me because it’s at the confluence of the two rivers, which meant every place I wanted to see on each day was never too far by train and/or bus.
If you do have more than 3 days, I would select two different bases – one for each river. Of course, you may prefer not moving so much, in which case Koblenz is fine. Koblenz, in my opinion, is not a must see city, but you can spend a couple of hours exploring it if you have extra time. From my research, Boppard (a town on the left bank of the Rhine) makes another very good single base to explore the Rhine and a good part of the Mosel. Boppard itself is a very pleasant town to spend time in.
The next region of southern Germany I highly recommend is Franconia, which is a distinct cultural region that covers most of northern Bavaria. It provides a nice contrast to the first one-third of your trip. While most people stay in Nürnberg (Nuremberg), I recommend a smaller city, Würzburg. It’s just as well connected by train, and for this itinerary, it makes more sense in terms of journey times. I used a direct ICE train to get here from Koblenz.
The final part of this itinerary covers Munich and the surrounding region. This is where I think your interests can greatly influence what day trips to take because there’s everything from mountain scenery to small historic towns. You can easily stop enroute for the day in Nuremberg from Würzburg to Munich, which is what I did. I used direct ICE trains from Würzburg to Nuremberg and Nuremberg to Munich.
At the end of my trip, I flew out of Munich, which is another major hub for international flights.
Now let’s get into my step-by-step travel guide for Germany to plan out a trip in detail!
Day 1: Arrival in Frankfurt and a Base in Koblenz
I landed in Frankfurt and quickly hopped on a train to Koblenz. This pleasant city at the confluence of the Rhine and Mosel rivers became my base for exploring the region. There are ICE trains, but those can be expensive if you don’t book them in advance. Since you can’t be sure that your flight arrival will be on time, it’s quite risky to do that. Check to see what the price is once you land using the DB app.
I suggest that you aim for the direct regional train from the airport (RE) if you find that the next ICE train is too expensive. It takes 1 hour and 30 minutes and leaves from the Regionalbahn at the airport every two hours. If you have the Deutschland Ticket, the price is included in that.
Where to Stay in Koblenz
If you’re going to be using public transport, I suggest that you stay close to the Koblenz Hauptbahnhof station. All trains and buses within the region either stop or transit through here, which makes it easier to take day trips. However, you’ll have fewer dining and shopping options within walking distance than if you stay in the center of town. If that’s important to you, then stay near the Koblenz Stadtmitte station, which is one stop away from Hauptbahnhof but also within the Old Town area.
Best Value and Convenient Location Pick: The Four Points Flex by Sheraton is a real winner – it’s right next to the train station and just a quick 10-minute stroll to the city center, plus it has underground parking if you’re driving. The rooms are clean and comfortable with all the essentials.
Best Budget Hotels: The Ibis Koblenz City hotel is equidistant from the main train station and the Old Town, which means you don’t have to compromise on budget or convenience. If you know Ibis hotels, you know what you’re getting here – a handy bar near the reception and several modern amenities in a clean and comfortable room with air-conditioning. The Super 8 by Wyndham Koblenz is a good choice if you want to stay closer to the city’s attractions. Besides being clean and modern, it also has a mini market on site.
Best Mid-range Hotels: Right in the middle of the Old Town and a 12 minute walk to the Stadtmitte train station is Sander Hotel. It doesn’t have a lot of character, but the rooms are clean and comfortable, the staff are welcoming, the breakfast is great, and the location can’t be beat if you want to be close to everything. It also has a bar and terrace. The Mercure Hotel Koblenz is a nice business class option with riverside views and a good location if you want to be close to the city sights. You can hop on a bus just steps away that will take you to the main train station in 10 minutes. It has its own restaurant too.
Best High-end Hotel: For a more peaceful location right by the river but also just a 10 minute walk away from the main train station, try the family-run Hotel Kleiner Riesen. It’s a great choice if you’re driving, as it has underground parking. It comes with a snack bar where you can enjoy breakfast in the morning and sandwiches and pastries the rest of the day. You’ll also have an electric kettle in your room – a very rare amenity in German hotels!
Exploring Koblenz
Koblenz welcomed me with its mix of old-world charm and modern flair. I checked into a cozy hotel near the train station. It was not too far from the main sights in the Old Town, and local buses were easily accessible from outside the train station when I didn’t feel like walking.
The city’s 2,000-year history hit me as I strolled cobblestone streets. My first stop after I had walked through the Old Town was Deutsches Eck, the famous “German Corner” where the rivers meet. The massive statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I on horseback is impossible to miss. For the best views, I took the cable car up to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This hilltop stronghold offers stunning panoramas of the city and rivers.
I didn’t really want to explore inside the fortress, as I was tired after my long flight, but if you have time and the interest, buy a combo ticket for the cable car and fortress to save a few euros. The ride itself is worth it for the views!
As evening fell, I found a quaint wine bar in the old town. Sipping local Riesling, I planned my next day’s adventures along the Rhine. Koblenz proved to be the perfect start to my German journey.
Day 2: Rüdesheim, Middle Rhine Valley Cruise, and Two Castles
Today’s adventure takes us through stunning scenery, charming towns, and medieval history along the Rhine. We’ll explore castles, cruise the river, and soak in the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage region.
Visit Marksburg Castle
Start your day with a short train ride to Braubach to see Marksburg Castle. This 12th-century fortress is the only hilltop castle on the Rhine that’s never been destroyed. There used to be a bus that you could take almost right up to the castle, but now you’ll have to walk up a moderately steep path for about 30 minutes. You could also get a taxi from the old town centre. The castle’s imposing walls and towers are worth the effort.
Inside, join a guided tour that shows you the castle’s medieval kitchen, armory, and bedchambers. Except for a few English tours in the afternoon during summer months, they’ll only be in German. However, you can get a handy text brochure in English to follow. The views of the Rhine Valley from the battlements are breathtaking. Wear practical shoes – the uneven stone floors and stairs can be tricky.
Exploring Rüdesheim am Rhein
Next, hop on a train to the charming town of Rüdesheim. This should take you about 45 minutes. This place is a wine lover’s dream! I strolled down the famous Drosselgasse, a narrow cobblestone lane lined with cozy wine taverns and shops. It’s a bit touristy but it gets busier in the afternoon.
Take a quick ride on the Rüdesheim cable car for amazing views over the vineyards and river and gaze at the massive Niederwald Monument.
Try some local Riesling with lunch at a quaint wine bar and restaurant. The crisp, fruity flavors are perfect when paired with a plate of local specialties. I did quite a bit more and you can too with my guide to Rüdesheim in a day.
Middle Rhine Valley Cruise from Rüdesheim to St. Goar
The highlight of your day may just be a Rhine River day cruise from Rüdesheim to St. Goar. This stretch is especially picturesque and takes just under 2 hours. As you set sail, grab a seat on the open deck to take in the scenery. The Rhine Gorge is truly spectacular, with steep vineyard-covered hills and castles perched on rocky outcrops.
You’ll spot at least a dozen castles along the way, along with the famous Loreley Rock, where legend says a beautiful siren lured sailors to their doom. The journey will fly by as you snap photos and enjoy the brisk river breeze.
Visit Rheinfels Castle and St. Goar
At some point, the boat will dock in St. Goar, where you make your way to the massive ruins of Rheinfels Castle. This once-mighty fortress is fun to explore, with dark tunnels and crumbling towers to climb. If you’re not up for another climb up, there’s a local shuttle bus that will take you there from the center of town.
Discover the castle’s expansive grounds, featuring hidden nooks, the clock tower, and underground mine passages. The museum has cool exhibits on siege warfare and medieval weapons.
After the castle, take a little time to wander St. Goar’s quaint streets and its riverside promenade. Try the local Riesling ice cream – a quirky treat!
Day 3: Burg Eltz, Cochem, and Beilstein
Today we’ll explore three amazing spots along the Mosel River. We’ll start with a jaw-dropping castle, then check out a popular town with another castle, and end in a tiny village that feels frozen in time.
You may see different spellings for the Mosel River. If you’re in Germany, that’s the correct spelling in German. The spelling is “Moselle” in French, as the river continues in France.
Visit Eltz Castle
Leave early to catch the train to Hatzenport and then bus to Wierschem for Burg Eltz. This castle is a real stunner – it’s been in the same family for almost 900 years! As you walk down the steep path, the castle towers come into view. If this isn’t your idea of a true castle, I don’t know what is!
Inside, are rooms filled with original furniture and artwork. The armor collection is great. You have to take a guided tour but English ones are frequent here. The guides know all the cool stories about the castle’s history.
After the tour, take the castle shuttle back up to get the bus back to Hatzenport.
Explore Cochem and Visit Cochem Castle
Next, take the train to Cochem. This town is busy, as it’s the most popular on the Mosel for taking cruises and tours. It’s full of half-timbered houses and narrow streets. Make your way through the town, checking out the shops and cafes.
Before you hit the town center, take a local shuttle bus up to Cochem Castle. It sits on a hill above town, giving great views of the river valley. Have lunch at the very good castle restaurant before taking a castle tour. The tour is fun – you learn about its history as a toll station on the Mosel. It was burned down by French troops and rebuilt in the 19th century in the Neo-Gothic style.
If you’ve had enough of castle tours, you can skip this one and instead visit the Bundesbank Bunker, but before that, explore the center of Cochem. The Bundesbank Bunker was the German central bank’s secret bunker during the Cold War period.
Make your way back to the bus station for the last stop of the day.
Explore Beilstein
For your last stop, hop on a short boat ride to Beilstein. This tiny village is nicknamed “Sleeping Beauty of the Mosel” because it’s so well preserved.
Climb up to the ruins of Metternich Castle for some killer views. Find your way to the cafe in front of St. Josef church for refreshments and more scenic views. Then take the steps down to the village center and wander the cobblestone streets, taking in the old-world charm. There are only about 140 people living here, so it feels really peaceful.
Finish the day with dinner at a cozy riverside restaurant. The food is hearty and delicious – perfect after a long day of exploring.
Day 4: Bacharach and a Base in Würzburg for Exploring Franconia
Steal a few more hours in this beautiful region by taking a 30-minute scenic train ride to the charming town of Bacharach. Check out and leave your luggage at the hotel or in the train station, as you’ll return to Koblenz before heading to your next base.
Explore Bacharach for Half a Day
Bacharach was an important center in the wine trade and is still one of the best places on the Rhine to do some wine tasting. Combine that with a wander through the pretty streets lined with half-timbered houses and walk through the vineyards and along parts of the medieval wall to some cool viewpoints.
Must visit stops include the Postenturm and the Wernerkapelle for breathtaking views of the Rhine and surrounding vineyards. The climb is pleasant and worth it! Back in town, find a cozy café and try some local Riesling wine and flammkuchen, a thin-crust pizza popular in the region.
I explored Bacharach for half a day before heading to Würzburg, my base for exploring the Franconia region. It was a great place to end my visit to the Rhineland-Palatinate part of my journey.
Stay in Würzburg
After returning to Koblenz, catch an ICE train to Würzburg, about a 3-hour journey. This you should try to book beforehand. Würzburg is a great base for exploring Franconia, with its own attractions and good connections to nearby towns.
Check into your hotel, either near the main train station to put you close to public transport for day trips, or in the Altstadt (Old Town) for a lively atmosphere. If you prefer a more leisurely stay, the left bank of the Main River puts you close to the vineyards and Marienberg Fortress.
For dinner, try a Franconian specialty and pair it with local wine. Würzburg is famous for its wines, so don’t miss the chance to taste some!
Best Value Pick: The Mercure Hotel Würzburg am Mainufer on the left bank of the Main River is a total gem – you get those stunning river views with Marienberg Fortress in the background, while being just a quick walk to Old Town without the premium price tag. You can use the tram or bus to get to other areas. The comfortable and modern rooms make it perfect for enjoying Würzburg without breaking the bank.
Best Budget Hotels: City Hotel Würzburg is right in the heart of the action – you’re literally steps from the main train station and just a short stroll to all the Old Town attractions. The rooms are surprisingly comfortable for the price, and the super friendly staff will make you feel right at home. City Partner Hotel Strauss is tucked right in the northern edge of the city’s pedestrian zone – you can be shopping, sightseeing, or sipping wine at a café within minutes. The rooms are cozy and clean, the included breakfast is surprisingly good, and it even has a good rustic-style restaurant.
Best Mid-range Hotels: Motel One Würzburg hits that sweet spot of style and value – their signature modern blue design with a crisp, contemporary vibe feels way more upscale than the price would suggest, and you’re well positioned between the Residenz and Old Town. The lounge area is cool enough to hang out in with a drink from the hotel bar.
Best High-end Hotel: Hotel Würzburger Hof is absolutely worth the splurge if you’re after that classic European luxury experience – this gorgeous historic building from 1880 has all the old-world charm with beautiful antiques and elegant details, while still offering modern comforts. You’ll be staying close to the heart of town but a short walk or tram ride away from the central train station, and the staff is incredibly attentive.
Day 5: Exploring Würzburg
It’s a day to explore Würzburg. After breakfast, head straight to the Würzburg Residence. This massive baroque palace will blow you away with its grand staircase and intricate frescoes. Before buying your ticket and taking an English tour of the inside, make sure to stop in the Court Chapel for a look at an amazing baroque interior.
After you finish at the Residenz, stroll through the old town and visit a few interesting churches. For lunch, stop at a cozy restaurant in the old town for some traditional Franconian dishes.
Stroll across the Old Main Bridge. It’s lined with statues of saints and offers great views of the Marienberg Fortress. Grab a glass of local Franconian wine from a vendor on the bridge to sip as you take in the scenery. You may find a busker here to add to the lively atmosphere!
Visit the Marienberg Fortress next. The climb up is worth it for the panoramic city views. Inside, explore the museum to learn about Würzburg’s history.
End the day with a relaxing walk through the Court Garden behind the Residence. The manicured grounds are free to visit and perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing.
Day 6: Exploring Rothenburg ob der Tauber
This is a day to discover Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a charming medieval town on Germany’s Romantic Road. The town’s well preserved walls and towers will greet you as you start your day with a walk along the southern ramparts, taking in views of red-roofed houses and winding streets. Spend some time in the Castle Gardens, with great views over the idyllic countryside below the town.
Head to the Market Square next, home to the impressive Town Hall. The colorful half-timbered buildings surrounding the square are picture-perfect. Visit the Christmas store and museum – yes, it is open all year round! Next, visit St. James Church to see its famous wood-carved altar.
You have a choice of restaurants for lunch, from light cafe eats to hearty German fare.
In the afternoon, explore the Medieval Crime Museum. Its collection of torture devices is both fascinating and chilling. Walk along at least a part of the northern walls to get a full picture of the fortifications of the town. Rothenburg ob der Tauber truly feels like a fairytale come to life.
For a snack, try a local specialty – schneeballen. These sweet, ball-shaped pastries were nice but messy to eat!
Day 7: Bamberg
The next morning, catch the train to Bamberg, a charming town in northern Bavaria. It will take you about an hour to get there. Once you step off the train, make your way to the center of the city and head to the Old Town Hall. It’s built on an artificial island in the Regnitz River.
Bamberg’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s easy to see why. Spend the morning wandering the narrow cobblestone streets, taking in the half-timbered houses and baroque architecture. Don’t forget to spend some time along the river at the section called Little Venice.
For lunch, try the local specialty – smoked beer. It’s an acquired taste, but worth a sip for the experience. Next, head to Cathedral Hill. It’s a bit of a climb, so if you don’t want to do that, then backtrack a bit to the main bus depot to take a bus to the top of the hill.
Your first stop is the stunning Bamberg Cathedral. Its four towers dominate the skyline. Inside, marvel at the tombs of Emperor Henry II and his wife Kunigunde and Pope Clement II. Bamberg’s Diocesan Museum, located in the Cathedral Treasury, is worth a visit and so is the medieval Old Court next door.
End with a stroll through the Rose Garden at the New Residence. The views over the city are breathtaking.
You can do this itinerary in reverse if you want to minimize uphill climbing. Find out how I spent a day in Bamberg, Germany here.
Day 8: Nuremberg and a Base in Munich
Today you’ll leave Würzburg and head to Nuremberg (Nürnberg in German) for a day trip before settling into Munich for the night. I’ll share my favorite spots in Nuremberg and some tips for getting settled in Munich.
Exploring Nuremberg
When you reach Nuremberg by train, store your luggage in a locker at the station. It’s cheap and lets you explore the city freely.
Start your Nuremberg visit from the end farthest from the train station at the Imperial Castle. You can get a bus close to the Old Town and then walk the rest of the way. The views of the city from up there are great, and the castle itself is worth a visit. After that, visit the house of Albrecht Dürer if you’re an art lover. It has been turned into an interesting museum.
Next, wander through the Old Town, stepping into the 3 main churches and viewing the beautiful fountain in the main square. For lunch, grab some finger-sized Nuremberg sausages from a street vendor. They’re tiny but packed with flavor.
In the afternoon, either check out the Nazi Party Rally Grounds and Documentation Center, the site of the Nazi Trials, or the Nuremberg National Museum. While the former two are sobering but important looks at history, the 3rd option is a well-laid out and extensive look at Germany’s history from prehistory to the 20th century.
Stay in Munich
Catch an evening train to Munich, which takes about an hour. Once there, head straight to your hotel. The city center (Altstadt-Lehel) is great for families or first-timers. It’s busy and the hotels are a bit more expensive, but the area is really convenient. Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt is near the central station and more affordable. It’s where Oktoberfest festivities take place. Karlsplatz is a major local transport hub and midway between the central train station and the Altstadt.
For dinner, try either Augustiner-Keller near the train station or Augustiner Stammhaus near the center. Both are good historic beer halls with a classic atmosphere. Augustiner-Keller also has a large beer garden.
Best Budget Picks: Cocoon Hauptbahnhof is a fun budget find right across from Munich’s main train station – their quirky Alpine-themed rooms give you that Bavarian vibe without the Bavarian prices! The location is absolutely perfect for exploring, the beds are comfy, and you’ll love how easy it is to hop on trains for day trips or airport transfers. Hotel Metropol by Maier Privathotels is right next door to the Cocoon, so it has the same benefits in terms of location. The rooms are clean, bright, and recently renovated with comfortable beds, modern bathrooms, and soundproofed windows. While compact (typical for European budget hotels), they include all the essentials.
Best Value Hotels: Mercure München City Center offers amazing value just a 5-minute walk from the main train station, with stylishly renovated rooms featuring Munich-themed décor and surprisingly spacious bathrooms for a city hotel. The hotel strikes the perfect balance between comfort and cost with useful amenities like restaurant and a cozy beer garden for food and nightcaps, and soundproofed windows to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep despite the central location. Hotel MIO by AMANO offers outstanding value in Munich’s Glockenbachviertel district, one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods filled with cool bars and restaurants just at the southern edge of the historic center. The stylish, design-forward rooms feature comfortable beds, rainfall showers, and chic urban décor, while amenities like the impressive rooftop bar with panoramic views, bicycle rentals, and friendly 24-hour service make it perfect for travelers who want to experience Munich’s local scene while still being just a 15-minute walk from Marienplatz.
Best Mid-range Hotel: Hotel Schlicker offers incredible value with its unbeatable location just steps from Marienplatz and the Viktualienmarkt in the absolute heart of Munich’s Old Town. The family-run hotel perfectly balances traditional Bavarian charm with modern comforts, featuring cozy rooms with thoughtful amenities, and an excellent breakfast spread that will fuel your day of exploration.
Best High-end Hotels: CORTIINA Hotel hits all the high-end marks with its sophisticated designer interiors and prime location between Marienplatz and Viktualienmarkt. The rooms are absolutely gorgeous with their warm oak furnishings, limestone bathrooms, and high-end touches like rain showers and Nespresso machines, plus the excellent bar with its craft cocktails and the lovely courtyard terrace make it the perfect upscale home base. Hotel Torbräu offers that perfect blend of luxury and history in an unbeatable location at the edge of Munich’s Old Town, just minutes from Marienplatz and right by the Isartor gate. The family-run hotel’s beautifully appointed rooms combine traditional Bavarian elegance with modern comforts, while their excellent restaurant and the building’s 500-year heritage deliver an authentic Munich experience. BEYOND by Geisel redefines luxury with its jaw-dropping location directly on Marienplatz – you’ll literally wake up to views of Munich’s iconic town hall from your ultra-stylish room. This exclusive boutique hotel feels more like a high-end private residence with just 19 rooms, offering exceptional touches like complimentary minibars, 24-hour dining, stunning bathrooms with rain showers, and a level of personalized service where staff anticipate your needs before you even mention them.
Day 9: Exploring Regensburg OR Mittenwald OR the Castles of Mad King Ludwig II OR More Time in Munich
For the penultimate day of your trip, you’ve got some great options to choose from. Each one offers a unique glimpse into different aspects of German history, culture, and landscapes. It’s really up to your interests to choose what you want to do.
If you want to see some more castles, then a choice of castles built by King Ludwig II should do the trick. If a taste of roman architecture and a peaceful small city is your thing, then Regensburg is a favorite among discerning travelers. If mountain scenery with a cute village is more your thing, head to Mittenwald at the foot of the Alps and take a hike nearby and a cable car up the mountain.
Exploring Regensburg
This is an easy 1.5 hour train ride away from Munich. Regensburg is a charming city with a well-preserved medieval center and glimpses of a Roman past. The pastel colored buildings lining narrow alleys are picture perfect.
You should check out Saint Emmeram’s Abbey and Scots Monastery. The Gothic St. Peter’s Cathedral is a must-see, with its stunning stained glass windows and intricate entryway. Don’t miss the Old Town Hall, where you can take a guided tour of the torture chamber (not for the faint of heart!). For lunch, try some traditional Bavarian food at the Historic Sausage Kitchen, said to be the oldest restaurant in Germany.
Stroll across the Stone Bridge, which has stood since the 12th century across the Danube’s northernmost point. Here’s an exhaustive list of what to see in Regensburg.
Exploring Mittenwald
Mittenwald is a picture-perfect Bavarian town nestled in the Alps. It’s famous for its painted houses and violin-making tradition. Start your visit with a walk down Obermarkt, the main street lined with colorful buildings.
The Violin Making Museum is fascinating, even if you’re not a music buff. For stunning views, take the cable car up to Karwendel mountain. The panorama hike around the top is lovely and not too challenging. Or you might prefer a hike above the Leutaschklamm Gorge. It’s a pleasant 30 minute walk from the village, and the hike weaves you in and out of Austria!
If you’re a beer fan, stop by the Mittenwald Brewery. They’ve been brewing since 1808 and offer tours and tastings.
Mittenwald requires a change of trains in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and the entire journey takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes. You could also take a direct bus that takes 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Visiting Castles Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau
These fairytale castles are a highlight of any trip to Bavaria. Neuschwanstein, with its white towers and mountain backdrop, is simply breathtaking. The interior is just as impressive, with rooms decked out in elaborate Romantic style.
Hohenschwangau, where King Ludwig II grew up, is often overlooked but well worth a visit. It’s less crowded and gives you insight into the royal family’s life.
Many tourists take a private or group tour to these castles from Munich, but it’s totally doable by public transport. Here is where I recommend that you take a Flixbus instead of trains from Munich. Flixbus takes you directly from Munich’s central bus station to Schwangau where Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau are located. It will take just under an hour and is affordable. There’s currently only one bus that goes in the morning and one that returns in the evening, but they’re at very convenient times and allow you to tour both castles comfortably or tour one castle and enjoy a hike in the area.
Trains in combination with regional buses are available but you’ll need 2-3 transfers and it will take you about 2.5 hrs.
Remember to book your castle tours in advance to avoid long waits. Also, don’t miss the hike up to Marienbrücke, which offers the best view of Neuschwanstein!
Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site and More of Munich
If you choose to spend more time in Munich, consider visiting the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site. It’s a somber but important experience that helps you understand this dark period of history.
The S2 line of the S-bahn will take you to Dachau station in 23 minutes and from there, it’s a 20 minute walk.
Back in Munich, take in a musical event or visit a specialty museum.
Day 10: Exploring Munich
Munich is a city full of history, culture, and beer. Wander its streets and soak in the Bavarian atmosphere. Today you’ll check out some top spots and get ready for your journey’s end. Munich in German, means “home of the monks” and the name makes perfect sense when you realize how many beautiful churches you can visit in Munich.
A logical way would be to start your day at the southern end of the city and work your way north. Follow our 1 day itinerary of Munich with walking maps. Sendlinger Tor is a hub for trams and buses, so it’s easy for anyone to get there from wherever you’re staying. make your way all the way down Sendlinger Strasse while gawking at interesting architecture and visiting landmarks like Asam Church along the way.
Take a loop around the heart of the old town, starting with a visit to the Frauenkirche and maybe a climb up to its viewing platform in the south tower. Time your visit to Marienplatz, the main square of the city, to coincide with the 11 am or 12 p.m. Rathaus Glockenspiel performance. The Gothic town hall is a must-see. It also has a viewing platform, if you didn’t go up the Frauenkirche.
There’s more to see around Marienplatz before you head to lunch. Grab a quick bite at the Viktualienmarkt. This open-air market has tons of foodstalls where you can sample a variety of German foods.
If you’d rather have a more relaxing lunch while pairing your beer with lunch in a beer garden, head to the Englischer Garten. There’s a good one in the shadow of the Chinese Tower. I recommend stopping to watch the surfers riding the river waves at the Eisbachwelle before taking a tram to Odeonsplatz to check out the loggia and Theatine Church.
Now is the time you have to make a choice unless you plan to spend more time in Munich. If you’re a fan of lavish and historic palaces, spend a few hours at the Munich Residence. If you prefer some science and technology, visit the Deutsches Museum. It’s huge, so pick a few exhibits that interest you most. The aviation section is really cool.
As your trip winds down, treat yourself to one last Bavarian meal at the historic and famous Hofbräuhaus. It’s touristy, but the atmosphere is lively and the beer is top-notch. Raise a stein to a great trip!
Before bed, take a final evening walk around the city center. Munich is beautiful at night.
So, there you have it! Germany in 10 days is easy by train and other forms of public transport. Focus on just one geographical area like south Germany, and you’ll find an unparalleled blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. Maybe it will make you want to come back to let the tracks guide you through northern Germany on another trip!
