This guide provides essential information for planning your trip to Germany, focusing on an itinerary that starts and ends in cities with major international airports. We’ll cover key attractions in each city, the time difference, local prices, and a sample travel budget. If you’re considering a trip to Germany, this guide is for you.
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Direct Flights to Germany
For most international travelers, especially those coming from North America or Asia, the main entry points into Germany are Frankfurt (FRA) and Munich (MUC). These two cities host the majority of direct long-haul flights. For instance, direct flights from the US West Coast typically only land in Munich and Frankfurt.
A common misconception is that Berlin, as the capital, would be the primary hub for international flights. However, Berlin has fewer direct intercontinental routes, so keep this in mind when planning.
Frankfurt is one of the busiest airports in Europe, served by a vast number of airlines including Lufthansa, its Star Alliance partners, and many others. This makes it an incredibly flexible starting point for your German adventure.
Munich is also an excellent choice, with Lufthansa operating daily non-stop flights from many global hubs. Because both cities are so well-connected, they serve as perfect entry and exit points for a multi-city tour of Germany.
Germany Travel Itinerary
Germany is a large country, about 3.5 times the size of South Korea (or roughly the size of Montana). This means seeing all the major cities in a short trip isn’t feasible. Therefore, this itinerary is designed around the two main international gateways, flying into Frankfurt and departing from Munich.
Day 1: Arrival in Frankfurt & City Tour
Start your journey with a relaxing day exploring Frankfurt. As Germany’s financial center, Frankfurt is a city where modern skyscrapers meet traditional architecture.
Begin at Römerplatz (Römer Square), the historic heart of the city. Here, you can admire medieval German architecture, with its charming gabled houses and quaint shops.
Don’t miss the nearby Frankfurt Cathedral (Kaiserdom), a historical site where Holy Roman Emperors were crowned. Its grand Gothic architecture is truly impressive.
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Main River (Mainufer) to enjoy the city’s skyline at night. Finish your day with a traditional German meal at a local restaurant to kick off your trip.
Day 2: Day Trip from Frankfurt to Heidelberg
Take an early train from Frankfurt to Heidelberg, a journey of about an hour. Heidelberg is Germany’s oldest university town and exudes a romantic, medieval atmosphere.
In the morning, visit Heidelberg Castle. From its perch, you can enjoy stunning views of the Old Town and the Neckar River. The castle itself is a fascinating mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles, famous for its giant wine barrel (the Heidelberg Tun) and impressive palace murals.
In the afternoon, walk the Philosophenweg (Philosopher’s Walk) on the opposite side of the river for a panoramic view of the town and castle. It’s a peaceful, scenic path where you can fully soak in Germany’s romantic medieval vibe.
Return to Frankfurt by train in the evening and unwind with some German beer and food at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Frankfurt → Munich
Travel to Munich by morning train (approx. 3.5 hours). Upon arrival, head straight to Marienplatz, the city’s bustling central square, to feel the vibrant energy of the Bavarian capital.
At Marienplatz, you’ll find Munich’s iconic New Town Hall and its famous Glockenspiel. Be sure to catch the chiming clock and its revolving figurines, as this charming performance is a signature Munich experience.
In the afternoon, visit the Residenz Palace to get a glimpse into the opulent life of Bavarian royalty. The palace consists of numerous rooms where generations of kings resided, filled with magnificent art and lavish decorations.
For dinner, head to the world-famous Hofbräuhaus, a traditional beer hall, to enjoy authentic German beer and cuisine to cap off your day.
Munich Travel: Public Transport, Weather & Things to Do
Day 4: Neuschwanstein & Hohenschwangau Castles
Today is dedicated to exploring Bavaria’s fairytale castles. It’s a day that will feel like stepping into a storybook. Take an early train to Füssen, then a shuttle bus to Neuschwanstein Castle.
Built as a fantastical retreat for King Ludwig II, Neuschwanstein Castle is perched dramatically on a rugged hill, boasting a unique landscape and breathtaking exterior.
After touring Neuschwanstein, head to the nearby Hohenschwangau Castle to further immerse yourself in Germany’s romantic castle culture. This was King Ludwig II’s childhood home, a beautiful castle nestled harmoniously in nature. Return to Munich in the evening for a relaxing night in the city.
Day 5: Day Trip from Munich to Salzburg, Austria
From Munich, it’s just a 1.5-hour train ride to Salzburg, Austria. Known as Mozart’s birthplace and the setting for ‘The Sound of Music,’ Salzburg is a city with a rich history of music and art.
Upon arrival, visit Mirabell Palace and enjoy a peaceful stroll through its beautiful gardens. Next, head up to the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the symbol of Salzburg, for a commanding view of the entire city. From its high vantage point, you can see the city and the stunning Alpine scenery all at once. Return to Munich in the late afternoon to conclude your cross-border excursion.
Untersberg & Hellbrunn Palace: Salzburg Day Trip Guide
Day 6: Free Time in Munich & Departure
Enjoy your final day at your own pace. The Viktualienmarkt is a fantastic open-air market to buy German snacks and souvenirs while sampling local delicacies.
You can also spend your time exploring the city’s smaller alleys, relaxing in a café, or visiting another historic brewhouse/beer hall for one last German beer before heading to the airport for your departure.
Time Zone and Daylight Saving Time
Germany operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1.
During Daylight Saving Time (DST), which runs from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, the country switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2. Be sure to check this when planning your travel to account for the time change.
Travel Costs & Budget
Prices in Germany are typical for Western Europe. Dining out can be moderately expensive compared to some countries, but you can easily manage costs by shopping at supermarkets, where groceries are quite affordable. A highlight for many is the cheap beer, which can often be found for around €1-€2 in a store.
For accommodation, during the high season, a bed in a hostel might cost around €35-€50 ($40-$55 USD) per night. While not exceptionally cheap, it’s generally not an overwhelming expense.
As a reference for a budget: I managed a 7-night, 8-day solo trip through Munich and Berlin on a total budget of approximately €430 ($500 USD). This breaks down to about €55-€60 ($65-$70 USD) per day, which reflects a budget-conscious travel style.
This itinerary, centered on Frankfurt and Munich, is an optimal route that takes full advantage of direct international flights. From the modern hub of Frankfurt to the romantic streets of Heidelberg, the vibrant culture of Munich, and even a quick trip to Salzburg, Austria, you’ll experience a diverse range of what this region has to offer. I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Germany.
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