Discover the beauties of Germany and disprove all stereotypes that this country is cold and unwelcoming.
I am here today to provide you with the ultimate itinerary for spending an insightful and enjoyable one week in Germany. I will share all you need to know about why visiting this country is a great idea. From glimpsing at its tumultuous history to exploring its culture, entertainment, good food and a lot of beer, this 7 day itinerary for Germany will have you all set up for an exciting venture!
Our full guide covers:
- Basic Introduction
- Where to stay in Germany
- How to get around
- What to see in Germany
- Things to do in Germany
- Tickets you have to buy before – must read
- Food and Restaurants
- Day Trips from Germany
- Itinerary for Germany
- Packing List
- City Map
All German cities are bustling and hide castles that look like they are taken out of a fairy tale. After all, this is one of the largest European countries, mainly because it offers you a variety. From a lot of history in Munich, liberality and fun in Berlin, to winter enjoyment by the Alps, I am sure you will find something that will encourage you to pack your bags this instance.
So, when to visit Germany? It is always the right time for one week in Germany. Why? Read through the guide to discover!
1. Basic Introduction
I would like to start my one week in Germany guide by providing some essentials you should know before setting off on your trip.
Currency: EUR (€)
Language Spoken: German
Population: 83 million
Known for: Engineering and technological innovation, efficiency, rich cultural history, picturesque landscapes, beer and sausages, historical landmarks, epic nightlife
Accommodation: hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals
Find more details in our Where to stay in Germany section below.
Public Transport: trains, buses, trams, and the U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (commuter train) systems in major cities
More under how to get around.
Safety: safe destination
City name: Berlin
Electricity: 230V/50Hz (European plug). Remember to pack your travel plug adapter.
2. Where to stay in Germany
2.1 Where to stay in Berlin
Berlin bears the burden of the horror of the Second World War and the city’s disintegration. Although it was reunited and revived in 1990, locals still remember these troubled past times vividly. The town has become an urban epicentre with plenty of nightlife and great opportunities for young people, making it a great destination for your one week in Germany trip.
Berlin is considered one of the most liberal and welcoming cities. If you come here, you will definitely become inspired by the sight. Visit the iconic Brandenburg Gate, Tiergarten and explore where the work of Dimitri Vrubel-Kiss is hidden.
Three Little Pigs Hostel – Your Berlin Castle
Three Little Pigs Hostel offers an excellent stay for solo travellers. A separate part for entertainment, with billiards, a lush garden for a coffee break or a bar. It is located in a building from the 19th century, and the rich buffet breakfast stands out as its most vital point.
Luxusapartment nahe Müggelsee
Expansive rooms with lots of light that you can enjoy in peace. Luxusapartment nahe Müggelsee offers a kitchen with free wifi and can host 4 guests. It has its own parking lot, adding to the convenience of your 1 week in Germany experience.
Aletto Hotel Potsdamer Platz
Aletto Hotel Potsdamer Platz offers rooms for two or three people, all spotless and spacious. The pricing aligns with budget travel, and the hotel provides an airport shuttle at a favorable rate. Situated in the Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg district, it encompasses a dynamic atmosphere, particularly appealing to young people.
2.2 Where to stay in Munich
If you plan to explore Germany in 1 week, then you better make a list of all the places you must see. While in Munich, I definitely recommend exploring Old Town or Altstadt. Still, you must also visit Marienplatz, and only 5 minutes on foot is the Munich Residenz, home to the famous Witteldood family, which is 400 years old. Also, visit the imposing Munich Cathedral and Antiquarium nearby. What you definitely cannot miss are the sunny beer gardens spread everywhere.
If you are a fan of church art, see the Frauenkirche and the Asamkirche. And if you decide to stay in Munich longer, go on a day trip to Regensburg.
Read more: We have a detailed guide on Where to stay in Munich.
Hampton By Hilton Munich City North
Hampton By Hilton is an ideal place for business meetings or group travel. It is located in the Schwabing-Freimann residential area. It is safe and can be recommended for a family stay. In addition to the business centre, the hotel also has a fitness centre. Outside, you have a large parking lot available. The rooms are intended for 1, 2 or 3 guests, making it a great fit regardless of the travel companions you choose for your one week in Germany.
Lizz Hotel Munich
It is located in Ludwigsvorstadt, which is an idyllic place for couples. The rooms are strictly non-smoking and have a private bathroom. In addition, Lizz Hotel Munich is only 39 km from the airport.
2.3 Where to stay in Hamburg
A 5-hour drive from Munich is Hamburg- the city on the Elbe River, nestled in the northern part of Germany. But why should you definitely add this city to your 7 day itinerary for Germany?
Here is the beautiful Alster Lake, where you can picnic, wheelbarrows, and canoe. The TV Tower, as well as the Hamburg Rathaus, are popular landmarks of the city.
If you decide to spend your 1 week in Germany with your children, you can take advantage of one of Germany’s most beautiful zoos. If you are an art lover, visit the Kunsthalle art gallery or attend the festival in front of the Hamburg Dom. Before I present the accommodation options, here are some suggestions for day trips if you have more time: Day trips to Lubeck, the Baltic Sea or the colourful Luneburg.
SMARTments Business Hamburg Aussenalster
This accommodation offers modern apartments with the possibility of using the business centres, elevator and the restaurant in SMARTments business Hamburg Aussenalster. There is free Wi-Fi and parking; the location is only a 5-minute walk to the lake.
Moxy Hamburg City
Moxy Hamburg City is an incredible pet-friendly property, with a 24-hour reception and incredibly friendly staff It is located 10 kilometres from the airport and has an excellently equipped business centre if that’s what you’re interested in.
Superbude Hamburg Altona
Superbude Hamburg Altona is only 12 minutes on foot from the centre, and you have a magical view of the city centre from the rooftop terrace. The elegant rooms with separate bathrooms are intended for 2 persons or solo travellers.
2.4 Where to stay in Cologne
As the Germans call it, Köln is located along the Rhine River. If you want to try all the delicious specialities, do it here, but leave room for Kolsch beer. Visit the Belgian Quarter, Cologne Cathedral, and the fascinating Chocolate Museum.
If you are wondering where to spend one week in Germany in winter, then come here because the Christmas markets are magical.
Moxy Cologne Bonn Airport
Moxy Cologne Bonn is near the airport, so you can watch the planes take off while having breakfast or drinking coffee. Although it’s in an exciting location, you won’t pay a fortune to stay here. The entire hotel is decorated uniquely, and the rooms are intended for one or two people. If you’re planning to explore Germany in 1 week solo or with your partner, this is the place to stay.
ibis Köln Centrum
ibis Köln Centrum is a modern hotel with red details that will immediately catch your eye. You have an open desk 24 hours a day. The rooms are primarily for 2 people and all of the rooms are air-conditioned. On the first floor, there is an amazing restaurant with international cuisine. In the neighbourhood, there are many interesting beer pubs. Ask the staff to give you directions.
Leonardo Royal Hotel Cologne Bonn Airport
Leonardo Royal Hotel is an elegant hotel with a city view and a separate gathering area and BBQ facilities. The rooms have a TV, a hairdryer, a kettle and a safe deposit. Something specific is that you can watch the planes while drinking coffee or having breakfast.
Although it is located a stone’s throw from the airport, it is quiet at night, and you will rest away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
2.5 Where to stay in Frankfurt
Wondering where to head next on your one week in Germany trip? Frankfurt city is the central airport hub and financial centre of the country. Many people come here for business conferences and meetings, so all accommodations are tailored for this type of traveller. If you wonder which airport to choose, go with Frankfurt, because the city also has excellent connectivity with other cities. Whether it’s for a layover or an extra day, I’m sure you’ll instantly fall in love with Frankfurt.
If you are here for one day, I recommend you get on the Hop Hop tour by bus, and you will see the whole city in a few hours. You can also use the U-bahn or S-bahn transportation options. If you’re wondering when to visit this city, know that Frankfurt is most beautiful in the spring and summer.
NH Collection Frankfurt Spin Tower
Only 800 meters from the central train station, the hotel has private parking and a desk open 24 hours daily. NH Collection Frankfurt Spin Tower is located 12 km from the airport, which is also ideal for reaching the centre.
The nearest station is in front of the hotel. The rooms have room service and excellent WIFI connection and are intended for 1 or 2 people.
Hampton By Hilton Frankfurt City Centre East
If you are spending one week in Germany for business reasons, this hotel is ideal. However, it is also great for other travellers. Hampton By Hilton Frankfurt City Centre East is located 15 km apart from the airport. It has a business centre, a fitness centre, an in-house snack bar and a luxurious restaurant. The rooms are for 2 people.
2.6 Where to stay in the Black Forest Region
And finally, the most beautiful mountain part in the whole of Germany- Schwarzwald! Located in the southwestern region near Baden, this place is known for the beautiful wooded hills, deep valleys, hiking trails, and high mountains. It is also popular for the workshops for cuckoo clocks, traditional ones, and wooden carvings. Nearby, you will also find the largest waterway in Germany, Triberg waterfall, as well as the small beautiful lake Titisee. So, where should you stay for your 1 week in Germany?
Gasthof Blume
Gasthof Blume is a house with mountain views, 64 km from Zimmerbauernhof. The rooms are warm and spacious, with a private bathroom and excellent wifi connection, ideal for relaxing after a hard day’s hiking or skiing.
Zimmerbauernhof
This region is known for cycling and hiking, so the hotels offer exciting tours. Zimmerbauernhof has apartments for 1, 2 or 3 people and an outstanding a la carte restaurant. All rooms have excellent WIFI connections. The nearest airport is in Stuttgart (87 km).
3. How to get around Germany
Cities in Germany are very compact and easy to navigate, which is a relief as you’re trying to plan your one week in Germany trip. As you expected, the transportation is medium to high level, so you have U-bahn, S-bahn, buses or trams at your disposal.
In larger cities, you can get a card for all types of transport if you are staying longer, such as the Frankfurt Card.
Train: You should consider this your primary option, especially for day trips because it is fast, effective, clean and affordable. Although it may take you longer than going by car, you will find it convenient not to have to search for parking.
Car Rental: Although the car has advantages, the disadvantages prevail for a shorter stay: gas is costly, and you need a pre-purchased vignette. For moving around the cities as you explore Germany in 1 week, it’s best to choose another type of transport.
Bus: It may be less accessible than the S-bahn and U-bahn, but some locations can only be reached by bus or car. Buses are also quite frequent but a little slower.
4. What to see in Germany – The Must-Do’s
See what you should not miss during one week in Germany:
The Must Do’s are:
- Brandenburg Gate (Berlin)
- Nymphenburg Palace (Munich)
- BMW Welt and Museum (Munich)
- Holocaust Memorial (Berlin)
More great sights to see in Germany are:
- Miniatur Wunderland (Hamburg)
- Hohenzollern Bridge (Cologne)
- Rhine River Promenade (Dusseldorf)
5. Things to do in Germany
One week in Germany will not be enough for you to see everything. So prepare well for a packed agenda and good organization. These are the places you should pay attention to:
Explore Historic Castles
Germany is home to many fairytale castles that captivate with charm and historical fascination. I recommend visiting the medieval-styled Burg Eltz near Koblenz, the Gothic-Renaissance Heidelberg Castle that has stood on the hill above the city since the 13th century, and finally, Neuschwaintstein.
Visit Charming Villages
This country is dotted with charming villages that offer a glimpse of the country’s opulent culture and history. Visit Hallstatt near the Austrian Alps, on the edge of a lake, or the Bavarian village of Garmisch-Partenkirchen at the foot of the largest Zugspitze mountain. These two villages were separated but joined in 1936 during the Winter Olympic Games.
Explore the Nightlife Scene
Berlin offers the best clubs in the world, from pubs and bars to alternative techno clubs in restored old factories. One example is the Panorama Bar, located in a former power station. If you want to visit the oldest beer garden, Parter Garden awaits you.
Attend Oktoberfest
The world’s most famous beer festival starts mid-September and ends in the first week of October. This is the embodiment of Bavarian culture and dates back to 1810. It began to be celebrated as a celebration of a marriage in a royal family. Since then, the tradition has continued every year.
Experience German Festivals (Reeperbahn Festival in Hamburg; Karneval in Cologne; Cannstatter Volksfest in Stuttgart.)
6. Tickets you have to buy before (Must Read)
Germany is flooded with tourists, both for leisure and for business trips. To save time while you’re exploring Germany in 1 week, book your tickets online for the following attractions and avoid queues and waits with skip-the-line options.
Museum and Attraction Tickets
I recommend you to visit the following museums.
To enjoy more museums and feel the art and history of this country, you have the following options:
Event Tickets
I single out the most popular events:
- the visit to the Chocolate Museum
- Brewery Tour Kölsch Tasting
And while about the current festivals and concerts, get information on their official sites.
Day Tours or Excursions
There is also this option if you don’t want to bother with the organization. If you don’t like what the pre-planned trips offer, I recommend that you organize yourself, travel by train, and buy tickets for the museums ahead of time.
7. Food & Restaurants
Don’t get carried away while enjoying the beer, so you stay hungry. I have prepared several suggestions for must-try specialities and places to go. Put these places on your checklist as you’re planning your 7 day itinerary for Germany.
- Bratwurst
- Sauerkraut
- Pretzels
- Wiener Schnitzel
- Sauerbraten
- Kartoffelsalat
Restaurants:
- Restaurant Tim Raue (Berlin)
- Schwarzwaldstube(Baiersbronn, Black Forest)
- Vendôme (Cologne)
- The Table Kevin Fehling (Hamburg)
8. Day Trips from Germany
How to do the day trips? There are 3 options:
- Rent a car on your own and hit the road
- take public transport
- join a tour
Here are the list of sights that you might want to check out for your day trips:
- Berlin: Brandenburg GateBerlin Wall and East Side Gallery, Museum Island
- Munich: Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, English Garden
- Hamburg: Port of Hamburg, Miniatur Wunderland, Speicherstadt
- Cologne: Cologne Cathedral, Hohenzollern Bridge, Museum Ludwig
- Frankfurt: Römer, Palmengarten, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral
9. Itinerary for 7 days
Day 1-2: Berlin
Welcome to Berlin, the city that hides the secret of the Memorial of Murder of Jews in Europe. It is also a city synonymous with both separation and reunification, and you can see that in the colourfulness of the Berlin Wall. In addition to these locations, visit the East Side Gallery.
If you are staying with the family, visit the Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf quarter. If you’re travelling with your loved one, keep in mind that Prenzlaner-Berg is the hideaway of romantic souls.
Day 3: Travel to Munich
The third day of your one week in Germany is reserved for a trip to Munich, where you must not miss one of the most beautiful churches in Europe. If you’re travelling with your family, stay in Bogenhausen; if you are coming alone, head to Maxvorstadt. Wherever you settle, take a rest because tomorrow is a busy day.
Day 4: Munich
On day 4, visit the English Garden, a bigger park than Central Park in New York. There are 4 beer gardens in it, so you can totally relax.
If you have rested, you can also go on a day trip to Nymphenburg to see the famous castle, parks, and minor canals, which are ideal for a picture.
Day 5: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle
On day 5, visit the Bavarian Alps near Fussen or Neuschwanstein Castle. It is so overgrown and like a fairy tale that it inspired the castle of Sleeping Beauty in Disney. It is made in a romantic style.
Day 6: Travel to Nuremberg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Now it’s time to explore Nuremberg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber with its cobbled streets.
Nunberg is a peaceful, cultural, and educational centre, and there is also one of the most beautiful German Christmas markets and the beautiful Kaiserburg Castle.
Day 7: Return to Berlin
On the last day of your trip, you will have to go back to where it all started- Berlin. The drive will last 4 hours, but with the beautiful views and the comfort of the trains, it will seem much less.
10. Packing List
Customize this list according to your plans, desires and possibilities for long walks:
The following is a simple packing list with some necessities for one week in Germany:
- Clothing for Various Weather Conditions
- Comfortable Walking Shoes to reach every beer garden
- Travel plug adapter
- Travel-Sized Toiletries
- Empty stomach for too much beer
- Water bottle with a built-in filter
- Daypack or Small Backpack
Now, you are ready for your one week in Germany. Feel free to contact me for more ideas and inspiration to make your trip truly memorable!
Optional but always useful:
11. Printed Guides & Map
These guides are best for the ones looking for a printed version.
Once you come to Germany, you will also receive a paper map of the city.
- Lonely Planet Guide for Germany
- Rick Steves Pocket Guide for Germany
Here is again our map of Germany with the recommended hotels and neighborhoods.
Questions? Contact us
I tried to make this guide as useful and complete as possible. However, chances are you still have questions left.
Therefore, any questions? Anything not clear?
Please get in touch with us, I would be very happy to help. I want to make this guide as useful as possible for you.
You see, your question actually helps me as well.
Do not be shy and send me an email.
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