Vacation Spotlight: Fascinating Germany

Fascinating Germany - with Guaranteed Departures!

Experience the many fascinating facets of Germany. Discover modern and dynamic cities such as Hamburg, Berlin and Munich, the picturesque beauty of the Rhine river valley, the romantic South with its magical landscape and fairytale castles. Highlights of this tour include a trip by high-speed rail from Berlin to Frankfurt and a visit to famous Neuschwanstein castle. Discover the many attractions of Germany

Tour Highlights:

• GUARANTEED DEPARTURES
• 14 Meals -Breakfast & Dinner
• Sightseeing includes Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Freiburg, Lake Titi, Lindau, Füssen, Neuschwanstein, Wieskirche, Oberammergau, Ettal, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Innsbruck, Linderhof and Munich
• Guided by English speaking tour director
• Maximum group size of 24 participants
• Private tour of same itinerary can be arranged, call for prices

Your Fascinating Germany tour includes:

• Arrival transfer from Frankfurt Airport to hotel on day 02
• 12 nights accommodations in 4-star hotels throughout
• Breakfast daily, except for morning of arrival
• Two dinners, including a welcome dinner in Frankfurt and a traditional Bavarian dinner in Munich
• Transportation by car, minivan or bus for duration (depending on number of participants)
• English speaking tour guide on days 02-07 and 10-15 (driver/guide for groups of 7 or less)
• Transfer to Munich Train Station and travel by train (reserved 2nd class seat) from Munich to Zurich
• Cruise on the Rhine
• Admission to Sanssouci, Heidelberg, Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Castles
• Black Forest Cake tasting
• Visit to cuckoo clock visitor center, enjoy a local cheese factory, a local brewery and beer tasting and a snow ball tasting in Rothenburg
• Luggage handling
• Portfolio of travel documents

Hotels

• Frankfurt: Movenpick Frankfurt City
• Cologne: Hotel Maritim
• Hamburg: Hotel Novotel Alster
• Berlin: Berlin NH Friedrichstrasse
• Frankfurt: Movenpick Frankfurt City
• Freiburg: Hotel Rheingold
• Fussen: Hotel Hirsh
• Garmisch-Partenkirchen: Rheinischer Hof
• Munich: Eden Hotel Wolff
• Frankfurt: Hilton Frankfurt Airport Hotel

*Post night hotel is at the Hilton Frankfurt Airport Hotel, which offers shuttle service for a small fee. A city center hotel can be arranged, however, the city center hotel does not offer the same low cost shuttle service to the airport and a taxi would be required. Alternate hotels may incur supplements.

Wittenberg - Packing a Reformation Punch

When following the Luther Trail, Wittenberg should be your first stop. A little over an hour south of Berlin, this little city may have suffered much through the war, but it sure packs a punch when talking about the Reformation. For it was here that Luther lived, preached and nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church. It was here that the Protestant Reformation began.

Though there are several sites to see in Wittenberg, here are three important sites to see in your Luther Trail in Wittenberg.

Lutherhalle
This museum/home of Martin Luther was meticulously curated with collections spanning the reformation and life of Martin Luther. One could spend days just in this museum.

Castle Church
A must see for anyone following the Luther Trail. See the door that Luther is said to have nailed his 95 Theses. But don't be fooled, the door is actually a replica.


Melanchthon haus
The Melanchthonhaus is a townhouse in the German town of Lutherstadt Wittenberg. It is a Renaissance building with late Gothic arched windows and the broad-tiered gables. It includes the study of the Protestant Reformer Philipp Melanchthon, who lived there with his family. In 1954 the house became a museum on Melanchthon's life and work displaying paintings, prints and manuscripts by him and his contemporaries. It became a World Heritage Site in 1996.

Wittenberg is a must-see along the Luther trail. Start planning your vacation to Germany with Celtic Tours World Vacations

Dragons, Music and the New Testament - Eisenach

On the very edge of the Thuringian Forest, Eisenach is famous both as the birthplace of the classical composer Joann Sebastian Bach, as well as the childhood home of Martin Luther. And it was here at Wartburg Castle that he translated the New Testament into German.

Eisenach is a quaint, historical city. It is a mere 2 hour train journey from Frankfurt or Leipzig. It also is quite close to Dresden and Nuremberg, making it a good stopover between many main touristy spots. The city walls were built during the 13th century and demolished in 19th century. Remains visible today are the Nikolaitor and the Glockenturm. There are plenty of things to see and do in this town. Here are just a few:

Wartburg Castle
The Castle of Wartburg is an outstanding monument of the feudal period in central Europe. It is rich in cultural associations, most notably its role as the place of exile of Martin Luther, who composed his German translation of the New Testament there. It is also a powerful symbol of German integration and unity.

Bachhaus
The Bachhaus Eisenach is the first museum in the world dedicated to Johann Sebastian Bach. The museum includes the home in which he spent most of his childhood.


Dragon GullyTruly immerse yourself in the fairy-tale splendor of the town in Dragon gully where legend has it a knight fought a dragon. Don't worry about finding dragons in this nature reserve, just nice hiking trails to take your mind off of a day of sightseeing.

Automobile World EisenachHere twelve topic sections record the more than 110 years of Eisenach automobile construction history.

Luther House
This half-timber house is the childhood home of Martin Luther.

Reuter Wagner MuseumIn 1866, the poet Fritz Reuter (1810 - 1874) had a mansion built by architect Ludwig Bohnsted in neo-Renaissance style at the foot of Wartburg Fortress. As early as 1897, the first Wagner exhibition was opened here and the museum now houses the largest Richard Wagner collection after Bayreuth.

Thuringian Museum - Town Castle EisenachThe Thuringian Museum was founded as early as 1899 and in 1931 the collection of arts and crafts moved to the Town Castle at the marketplace. It focuses on porcelain, faience, glass, graphics, wrought iron, paintings dating from the second half of the 19th century and works by representatives of Expressive Realism.

Take a moment to stop into this historical city in Central Germany. Learn about the dragons and folklore, the rich arts and music history or the reformation at Wartburg Castle. Travel to Germany with Celtic Tours World Vacations

Wartburg Castle

Capping a rocky spur, overlooking the quaint city of Eisenach, East Germany; Wartburg Castle stands, a monument to the feudal period. Wartburg Castle was named a UNESCO World Heritage site for its rich cultural associations, including its central role in the reformation.

The original castle was built here in 1067 and attributed to Count Ludwig der Springer. The lengthy history to follow covers two centuries and is filled with wars, kings and poets. But perhaps the best known character in the history of Wartburg Castle is Martin Luther.

Martin Luther is known to have spent his time in exile on the grounds of this castle. On May 4, 1521 Elector Friedrich the Wise allowed Luther to be brought to the Wartburg near Eisenach. It was during his exile at Wartburg Castle that Martin Luther translated the New Testament into German. Luther devoted himself to the new task and completed it within 11 weeks. Today you can view his room at the castle, the desk where we worked and the famous ink spot on the wall, where he is said to have thrown the inkwell while battling Satan himself.

Not to be missed at Wartburg Castle, the magnificent Great Hall where you will learn about the famous Minstrel's Contest. If possible, take in a concert here!

This beautiful and historical castle is a great addition to any vacation to Germany. Start planning today with Celtic Tours World Vacations

Eisleben Must Sees

Eisleben is a quaint town in east Germany, about an hour outside Leipzig. The town is most famous as the birthplace and place of death of Martin Luther, making it a perfect stop if you are following the Luther trail. Eisleben also makes a great alternative to staying in the big city of Leipzig, when traveling through the area. For such a small town, there is quite a bit to see. To see everything, we recommend an overnight in the town. The overall appeal of the town is not very touristy so you can get a good vibe from the locals.

Eisleben Must Sees

St. Peter's and Paul's Church
The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul is the place where Martin Luther was baptised. The foundation for the present building was laid in 1486. Before that time, a smaller edifice had been situated at the same place, but its appearance is unknown. It is certain, however, that on November 11th, 1483, the day Luther was baptised, the mighty church steeple had already been erected. Its spire was remodelled in 1566, when it received the roof hood that is seen today. At the beginning of the 16th century, the construction work of both the outside and the inside of the late Gothic hall church with three naves was finished.

Luther's Last Residence Exhibit
As Martin Luther died in Eisleben on 18th February 1546, the Luther Memorial “Luther’s last residence” can be found here. Nowadays, his last residence is a museum located above the Eisleber Markt.

Luther's Birthplace
The house where Luther was born was built in the middle of the fifteenth century as a burgher’s home. Luther’s father rented it shortly before Luther’s birth in 1483. The ground floor still retains its original floor plan.

Whether stopping into Eisleben on your way to Leipzig, or following the Luther Trail, Eisleben is a quaint town and a must see! Start planning your Germany vacation with Celtic Tours World Vacations!

Top 9 Attractions in Erfurt, Germany

Erfurt is a pretty little city centrally located between Frankfurt and Dresden. It also makes a great stopover between Berlin and Munich. For a little city, Erfurt absolutely packs a lot of great museums and attractions. Here are the top 9!

Merchant's Bridge: See it from every angle! When on the bridge you cannot tell that it is a bridge so to truly appreciate the marvelous architecture, you must it from the front and back as well as browsing the shops across it.

Gera River: The Gera River runs around the entire city, with several picturesque footbridges there are many places to stop for a minute and take in the beauty of this medieval city. You may even spot some local wildlife such as a heron taking flight.

Cathedral Square: This beautiful square is flanked by the cathedral and the Church of St. Severus. Stroll through the square enjoying an ice cream or a decadent chocolate for the nearby chocolatier, Goldhelm Schokolade.

Mariendom: Take a look inside this beautiful cathedral for the stained glass windows and the magnificent 14th century carved choir stalls - a feast for the eyes!

Church of St. Severus: Right next to Mariendom, a part of Cathedral Square, St. Severus is also worth taking a peak inside.

Egapark Erfurt: Here you will find one of the largest flower and horticultural parks in Germany.

Alte Synagogue: This recently "rediscovered" synagogue is a cultural and architectural treasure built in the 11th century. Take a moment to marvel at one of the few remaining medieval synagogues in Europe.

Outdoor Shopping Mall: The pedestrianized outdoor shopping mall is a feast for the wandering architect - plus take in a little bit of shopping while you are here!

Erfurt Protestant Augustinian Monastery: This peaceful gothic monastery complex is one of the most famous related to the reformation.


As with all medieval cities in Europe, look for the nooks and crannies. Discover beautiful fountains, playful statues, stop for a moment to hear the street performers play an accordion or violin and enjoy a cappuccino at one of the many street cafes in the traffic-free city center. Erfurt is a beautiful little city. Stay here as a stopover between major cities on your route, or stay here for a week and visit the nearby towns and castles! Start planning your Germany vacation with Celtic Tours World Vacations.

Vacation Itinerary Planner: The German Clock Road

This route takes you through the most beautiful vacation destinations in the Black Forest and the Baar region. Charming museums and sights revolve here around clock making. In clock factories the product process can be witnessed. Wooden clocks were manufactured in Waldau as early as 1667, the most prominent example being the cuckoo clock. On the way you will discover Black Forest farmsteads and houses with the characteristic shingle-roofs, clear streams, luscious meadows and dark green forests.

1. Schramberg
Schramberg is a town in the district of Rottweil, in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. It is situated in the eastern Black Forest, 25 km northwest of Rottweil. With all its districts Talstadt, Sulgen, Waldmössingen, Heiligenbronn, Schönbronn and Tennenbronn (since 2006) it has about 22,000 inhabitants. In 1861 the clock factory Junghans was founded in Schramberg. At the beginning of the 20th century Junghans became the biggest clock factory worldwide with 3000 employees. In the surroundings of Junghans many suppliers like spring producers established their companies. Junghans although being much smaller now still continues to produce clocks nowadays.

2. Rottweil
Located between the Black Forest and the Swabian Alps, Rottweil has about 25,000 inhabitants. The old city is famous for its medieval center and for its traditional carnival. The oldest town in Baden-Württemberg, its appearance has changed very little from the 16th century.

3. Bad Durrheim
Bad Dürrheim in the Black Forest boasts the double distinction of being a salt-water spa and a climatic health resort, which makes it ideal for a successful health break.

4. Titisee-Neustadt
The scenic highlight of Titisee - Neustadt is doubtless the fantastic setting of Titisee lake whose crystal-clear water attracts thousands of enthusiastic swimmers to the healthy climate of the resort town bearing the same name. Since its conversion to a pedestrian zone and waterfront promenade, Seestraße is considered the loveliest street for strolling in the Southern Black Forest.

5. Lenzkirch
Lenzkirch is located in the High Black Forest between the attractions of Lake Titisee, the Feldberg mountain, Lake Schluchsee and Wutachschlucht Gorge, which are known far and wide. Lenzkirch also lies on the German Clock Road. Lenzkirch and its districts are located on a slightly undulating, largely open plateau, which offers marvellous views over the High Black Forest.

6. Glottertal
Located near the town of Freiburg in the far south west of Germany, the Glottertal valley in the southern Black Forest offers picturesque walking country with pretty flower-filled meadows, lush orchards and vineyards, wooded peaks and shady pine forests, not to mention warm hospitality and culinary delights.

7. Waldkirch
Waldkirch is a town in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, located 15 kilometers northeast of Freiburg im Breisgau. While the English translation of its name is Forest Church, it is known as "the town of mechanical organs", where fairground organs played on the streets were manufactured by such well-known manufacturers as Carl Frei, A. Ruth and Son, and Wilhelm Bruder's Sons.

8. Triberg
Watchmaking was once a thriving local industry in Triburg. Check out the World's Biggest Cuckoo Clock here.

9. Hornberg
Hornberg, the town of the 'Hornberger Schießen' (Hornberg Shooting) is located in the Gutach Valley on the Black Forest Railway. The district of Reichenbach is one of the 3 villages which are the home of the famous Bollenhut, a traditional ladies' hat topped with pom-poms.

Start planning your European Vacation with Celtic Tours World Vacations

History & Mystery: Frankenstein's Castle, Germany

Steeped in literary and historical mystery, Frankenstein's Castle ruins slumber a mere 30 miles from Frankfurt city, Germany. On a clear day, one can spot Frankfurt looming in the distance. Travelers to Germany, will find the hilltop castle a nice place to watch the sunset, bring a bottle of wine and a small picnic. 

Frankenstein's Castle was erected sometime before 1250, though a castle has stood in its place since the 11th century. The castle was named by Lord Konrad II. Reiz von Breuberg who had erected the castle. He named himself "von und zu Frankenstein" and was founder of the free imperial lordship Frankenstein, which stretched within Nieder-Beerbach, Darmstadt, Ockstadt, Wetterau and Hesse.

Modern claims of the castle having an influence on the work of Mary Shelley remain controversial. They are linked to the famous German theologian, alchemist and physician, Johann Conrad Dippel, who was born in the castle in 1673. Dippel was known for his theories on soul transference between cadavers. There are claims that during his stay at Castle Frankenstein, he practiced alchemy and anatomy.

Dippel died in 1734. Mary Shelley was born in 1797 in England and her gothic novel, Frankenstein was published in 1818. Though she would have never met Dippel and the are no direct links between Mary Shelley and Frankenstein Castle; it is difficult to believe that Dippel and Frankenstein Castle were not the influence for the novel of the same name.



Drawing from the mystery connection between Frankenstein Castle and Mary Shelley's novel, travelers to Germany must visit the castle during the Halloween season for one of the scariest and spookiest haunted houses in the world.

Whether you are interested in history or mystery, do visit Frankenstein's Castle on your next vacation to Germany. Travel to Germany with Celtic Tours World Vacations.

Historic Rudesheim am Rhine - a Germany must!

Lying at the foot of the Neiderwald, on the approach of the Lorelei, on the banks of the Rhine; a stop or overnight in Rudesheim is a must for any travelers to the Rhine area of Germany. Though a year-round tourist destination, Rudesheim maintains it's quaint and quintessential German feeling. Stroll along quaint cobble stoned Drosselgasse, discover the town's nook and cranny's and stop for a gelato overlooking the beautiful Rhine River. The feeling of Rudesheim is relaxing. Visit and relax.

Must Do's:

Georg Bruer: Sample local wine and champagne at Georg Bruer. The Bruer family cultivates over 33 hectacres of vineyards in Rudesheim and the surrounding areas. We recommend this to be your first stop in Rudesheim.

Middle Ages Torture Museum: Come and view the instruments used for torture in the middle ages. Learn about the methods of torture, witches, funeral piles, witch-hunts, witchcraft, the Inquisition, and the Medieval punishments.

Shopping: You will find a host of German craft shops in Rudesheim. You can be assured to find souvenirs of your time in Germany.

Cruise on the Rhine: If the weather is fine, there is nothing better than to take a cruise on the Rhine. You will see green mountainsides dotted with castle ruins along the entire Rhine.

Siegfried's Mechanisches Musikkabinett: Music-lovers and history buffs will delight in the collection at this wonderful museum. Visitors will find phonographs, music boxes, player pianos and more.

Niederwald Monument: This majestic statue, over 30 feet tall, sits atop Rüdesheim's National Monument. The ride up and the view is amazing!

Rheingau Wine Museum Broemserburg Castle: This medieval castle now serves as a museum of wine and local history.

Stroll the Drosselgasse: Less than 500 feet long, Drosselgasse is a narrow, pub-lined lane, which is abuzz with music and merrymaking from noon until well past midnight every day from Easter through October.

Benedictine Abbey of St. Hildegard: A very lovely abbey with nuns living here and running it. There is also a shop were you can buy things what are made here. The views you have from here are stunning.

Dinner at the Rudesheimer Schloss: Breuer's Rüdesheimer Schloss's restaurant serves food from the Hesse region. A variety of wines from the hotel's own winery can be tasted and purchased. In the summer, you are lucky to eat in the courtyard famous for it's glockenspiel. Live music plays daily. The food is fabulous and the atmosphere is amazing!

Rudesheim am Rhine is a must for any travelers to Germany, especially if you are visiting the Rhine region. It is an easy day trip from Frankfurt. But, Rudesheim is also a great base for exploring the Rhine region. We recommend staying at Bruer's Rudesheimer Schloss. The atmosphere is amazing!

Travel to Germany with Celtic Tours World Vacations!