• Overview
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German Castle Tour on the Fairytale Road

Discover Germany’s Storybook Castles by Rail with our German Castle Tour. Embark on an enchanting journey through three of Bavaria’s most charming and culturally rich destinations. From the alpine allure of Munich to the automotive elegance of Stuttgart and the romantic whimsy of Heidelberg, you’ll be swept away by medieval scenery, storybook castles, and warm Bavarian hospitality.

We’ve crafted this 9-day rail adventure with comfort in mind. You can stroll cobblestone lanes, sample regional beer and cuisine, and immerse yourself in the area’s unique heritage and traditions. We will make sure to provide you with a seamless travel experience in the lap of luxury.

What your itinerary will look like:

Itinerary with Flexible Activities: You can follow our recommended itinerary to experience the highlights of each destination, or customize it to suit your personal preferences.

Itineraries

Day 1

Arrive in Munich

Welcome to the Bavarian capital! After checking into your hotel for a three-night stay, spend your afternoon getting acquainted with Munich's old town area. Visit the iconic Marienplatz square with its striking New Town Hall and glockenspiel clock. Don't miss the chance to raise a stein at one of Munich's classic beer halls like Hofbräuhaus. [Night in Munich]

Day 2

Munich's Palaces and Museums

On your second day, explore some of Munich's most famous attractions like the enormous Nymphenburg Palace, the former summer residence of Bavarian royalty. You could also visit the Alte Pinakothek Museum housing one of the world's finest collections of European art. End your day with a stroll through the English Garden, one of the largest city parks. [Night in Munich]

Day 3

Dachau and BMW

This morning, you should take a sobering half-day trip to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site. In the afternoon, return to Munich and visit the BMW Museum and factory to learn about this quintessential German automotive brand. Spend your evening savoring traditional Bavarian food and beer. [Night in Munich]

Day 4

Travel to Stuttgart

After breakfast, depart Munich and take the train to Stuttgart in southwestern Germany. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a three-night stay. Get oriented by visiting the Old Palace and New Palace in the city center. You could also stroll through the Schlossgarten, Stuttgart's beautiful palace gardens. [Night in Stuttgart]

Day 5

Stuttgart's Car Museums

As the birthplace of icons like Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, Stuttgart is a paradise for car enthusiasts. Visit the stunning Mercedes-Benz Museum and Porsche Museum to see incredible automotive collections and learn about the history of these renowned brands. [Night in Stuttgart]

Day 6

Stuttgart's Green Spaces

Take a break from the city by exploring Stuttgart's many parks and beer gardens. Highlights include the Killesbergpark with its tower offering panoramic views, or the romantic Leibfriedscher Garten with its vine-covered pavilions. Stop for a locally-brewed Stuttgarter beer along the way. [Night in Stuttgart]

Day 7

Journey to Heidelberg

Leave Stuttgart after breakfast and take the train to the picturesque riverside city of Heidelberg. After checking into your hotel, spend your afternoon strolling along the Philosophers' Walk for iconic views of Heidelberg's Old Town and famous Heidelberg Castle ruins perched above. [Night in Heidelberg]

Day 8

Explore Heidelberg

On your last complete day of the tour, fully experience the charms of Heidelberg. Visit the imposing Heidelberg Castle and its enormous wine barrel, then wander through Heidelberg's old town center and across the Old Bridge gates. Don't miss the historic student prison at Germany's oldest university. [Night in Heidelberg]

Day 9

Depart Heidelberg

On your final morning, you may want to take one last stroll along the Neckar River or visit any attractions you missed before departing Heidelberg. Enjoy some final moments in this quintessential German university town.

Your rail adventure and hotel package includes: 

  • Welcome Package: Receive a personalized welcome package upon arrival, including travel essentials and detailed itinerary information to ensure a seamless start to your journey. 
  • First-Class Rail Travel: Experience the ultimate in comfort and style with first-class rail travel throughout your itinerary. Please note that some regional trains may only offer second-class seating. 
  • 4-Star Plus Hotel Accommodation: Enjoy luxurious 4-star-plus accommodations in all cities, conveniently located near train stations for easy access and maximum convenience. 
  • Daily Breakfast: Start each day with a delicious full breakfast, provided at all hotel accommodations, offering a variety of local and international options. 
  • Airport Transfers: Enjoy hassle-free airport transfers upon arrival and departure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience. 
  • Your rail adventure and hotel package does not include: 

    • International Airfare: Flights to and from Europe are not included in the package price. Rail Escape can offer an additional reservation of flights. 
    • Excursions Activities and Entrance Fees: Any tours, excursions, or activities are not included and may incur additional costs. 
    • Meals Beyond Breakfast: While a full breakfast is provided daily, lunch, dinner, and any additional meals or snacks are not included and are the guest’s responsibility. 
    • Local taxes or fees: The packages do not include additional local taxes or fees, such as hotel tourism taxes.  
    • Personal Expenses: Personal shopping, souvenirs, and additional hotel services (e.g., minibar, laundry, room service) are not covered. 
    • Tips and Gratuities: Gratuities for hotel staff, guides, and drivers are not included and are at the guest’s discretion. 
    • Local Transportation: Transportation within cities, such as taxis, buses, and subways, is not included. 

 

Important Notes 

  • Customs Fees and Duties: Any – if applicable - customs fees or duties for goods purchased while traveling are the responsibility of the traveler. 
  • Extra Nights: Any additional hotel nights or early check-ins and late check-outs outside the scheduled itinerary will incur extra charges.  
  • Visa and Passport Fees: Guests are responsible for securing their own visas and any associated costs. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. 
  • Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip. Please arrange this separately, as it is not included in the package. 

All our hotel options have been carefully selected, conveniently located near the train station for your comfort.

Munich

Our Included Favourite

25 hours the royal bavarian

Walking distance from the city center

Offers bike rentals

Popular Alternative

Courtyard by Marriott Munich City Center

Family friendly

Fitness center

Luxe Alternative

Sofitel Munich Bayerpost

Munich’s former Bavarian Royal Post Office

Luxury spa

Stuttgart

Our Included Favourite

Steigenberg Graf Zeppelin

Wellness area

Summer terrace

Popular Alternative

Novum Hotel Boulevard Stuttgart City

Breakfast buffet

Family friendly

Luxe Alternative

Arcotel Camino

Inspired by Spain’s Camino de Santiago

On-site restaurant

Heidelberg

Our Included Favourite

Heidelberg Marriott Hotel

Scenic river views

Family friendly

Popular Alternative

Premier Inn Heidelberg City Zentrum Hotel

On site Restaurant

Family friendly

Luxe Alternative

ATLANTIC Hotel Heidelberg

Breakfast buffet

Sauna