10 day itinerary in Germany by train

Day 1: Arrive in Frankfurt – head to Würzburg

After landing in Frankfurt, your adventure begins!

If time permits, we recommend heading directly to Würzburg, a way more scenic and walkable city in the Franconian wine region. It’s a beautiful place to start your trip, and the train ride from Frankfurt takes just 1.5 hours. You can relax, enjoy the views, and settle into the pace of your journey.

Getting to Würzburg

You can catch a direct train from Frankfurt Airport to Würzburg, with multiple connections throughout the day. After the flight, sitting back and letting the train take you to a more charming destination is the perfect way to start your trip.

In Würzburg, we recommend to check out the Motel One Hotel*→

If You Can’t Make It to Würzburg:

If your arrival time doesn’t allow for immediate travel to Würzburg, we recommend staying in Frankfurt for the night.

Consider booking a room at the Moxy Frankfurt City Center* →

We’ve stayed at Moxy hotels* in several cities. While it is a minimalistic hotel, the Moxy offers everything you need for a brief stay. The hotel has a fun, casual atmosphere, and being in the city center means you’re conveniently close to restaurants and local amenities. Avoid booking hotels near the main train station (Hauptbahnhof) in Frankfurt, as the area can be less pleasant and not as welcoming for a first-time visitor.

Check out our itinerary about what to do in less then 24 hours in Frankfurt if you need some inspirations about things to do.

Day 2: Explore Würzburg

Morning: Arrival in Würzburg (if not already there)

If you stayed overnight in Frankfurt, take a relaxing morning train ride to Würzburg (about 1.5 hours). You’ll arrive just in time to start your exploration of this charming city. If you’re already in Würzburg, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café before diving into the day.

Explore the Würzburg Residence

Start your day by visiting the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful baroque palaces in Germany. The palace’s grand staircase, frescoes, and stunning architecture will leave you in awe. Be sure to take a guided tour to fully appreciate its history and opulent interior.

Stroll through the Court Gardens

Right behind the Residence are the beautifully manicured Court Gardens. Take a stroll through the flower beds and pathways, which offer peaceful corners to relax in. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, the gardens will be colorful and vibrant.

Lunch in the Old Town

For lunch, head into Würzburg’s Old Town, where you’ll find plenty of cozy cafés and restaurants serving Franconian specialties. Try a traditional dish like “Schäufele” (roast pork shoulder) or “Bratwurst” (grilled sausages), paired with a glass of local Silvaner wine.

Afternoon: Explore the Old Main Bridge and Marienberg Fortress

After lunch, make your way to the Old Main Bridge (Alte Mainbrücke). This iconic stone bridge, lined with statues of saints, offers stunning views of the city and the River Main. It’s a perfect spot to snap a few photos or enjoy a local glass of wine from one of the small stands along the bridge.

Next, if you’re up for a bit of a climb or prefer a short bus ride, head to the Marienberg Fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the city. The fortress not only offers panoramic views of Würzburg and the surrounding vineyards, but it’s also a fascinating site with a museum showcasing the city’s history.

Dinner and Wine Tasting

Würzburg is located in the heart of the Franconian wine region, so what better way to end your day than with a wine tasting? Several wineries offer tours and tastings of their locally produced wines, particularly their famous Silvaner and Riesling. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed dinner in one of Würzburg’s many traditional wine taverns or restaurants.

Evening

If you’re not too tired, take an evening walk through the illuminated streets of the Old Town. Würzburg’s relaxed vibe and scenic beauty will make for a peaceful and pleasant end to your day.

Day 3: Head to Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Morning: Departure from Würzburg to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
After breakfast in Würzburg, take a short train ride to Rothenburg ob der Tauber (about 1 hour). This medieval town is famous for its well-preserved half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and old city walls.

While many tourists only spend half a day here, we highly recommend staying overnight. As the day crowds leave, Rothenburg transforms into a peaceful and quiet haven, giving you a truly unique experience.

Mid-Morning: Explore the Old Town
After dropping off your luggage, start exploring the Old Town. Walk through the picturesque lanes, with colorful half-timbered houses, flower boxes, and charming squares. Don’t miss the Marktplatz (market square), the town’s bustling center, featuring the historic town hall tower and centuries-old fountains.

Make sure to take a short visit to the Käthe Wohlfahrt shop, famous for its wide array of traditional Christmas decorations and gifts. Whether you’re looking for festive ornaments, nutcrackers, or unique souvenirs, this shop is the perfect place to find something special to bring home. It’s especially ideal for picking up Christmas gifts that reflect the charm of Rothenburg.

Lunch in Rothenburg
Take a break at a local café or restaurant to enjoy traditional Franconian cuisine. Try Rothenburg’s signature treat, Schneeballen, which are deep-fried dough balls dusted with powdered sugar or covered in chocolate.

Afternoon: Walk the Town Walls
In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk along Rothenburg’s medieval town walls. The elevated path offers stunning views of the town’s red-tiled rooftops and the surrounding countryside. You can also stop at several watchtowers along the way for some beautiful, panoramic photos.

Afterwards, visit the Plönlein, one of the most iconic photo spots in Germany. The charming half-timbered house nestled between two diverging streets is picture-perfect and a must-see while you’re in town.

Evening: Night Watchman Tour
One of the best experiences in Rothenburg is the Night Watchman Tour. The Night Watchman will guide you through the dimly lit streets, sharing fascinating stories about medieval life and Rothenburg’s history. This tour is both entertaining and informative, making it a fantastic way to cap off your day. We loved this tour so much, it is an absolutely must-do!

Stay Overnight for the Full Experience
By staying overnight in Rothenburg, you’ll get the chance to explore the town without the usual crowds. In the evening and early morning, you can revisit the main photo spots, like the Plönlein and the Marktplatz, with far fewer tourists around, allowing you to capture stunning photographs in peace. The town’s quiet, magical atmosphere at night is something most visitors miss, making your overnight stay truly special.

Day 4: Head to Nuremberg and Start Exploring

Morning: Travel from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Nuremberg
After a peaceful night in Rothenburg, take a morning train to Nuremberg (about 1 hour). Once you’ve arrived and dropped off your luggage at your accommodation, it’s time to explore the historic city.

Mid-Morning: Discover Nuremberg’s Old Town
Start your visit with a walk through Nuremberg’s Old Town, surrounded by impressive medieval walls. Wander through the charming streets lined with half-timbered houses, and stop at the bustling Hauptmarkt (Main Market Square), where you’ll find the iconic Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain) and the stunning Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady).

Lunch in the Old Town
Enjoy a traditional Nuremberg Bratwurst lunch at a local restaurant. These small, grilled sausages are often served with sauerkraut or potato salad and are perfect paired with a local beer.

Afternoon: Explore the Kaiserburg (Nuremberg Castle)
In the afternoon, head to the Kaiserburg (Nuremberg Castle), an important medieval stronghold of the Holy Roman Empire. The castle offers incredible views over the city and provides fascinating insights into medieval life, including exhibits on weapons, fortifications, and life during that era.

If time allows, consider adding a tour of the Kunstbunker, an underground art bunker where valuable art pieces were hidden and preserved during World War II. This tour offers a unique glimpse into how the city protected its cultural treasures during turbulent times.

Evening: Relax in the Old Town
End your day with a relaxing walk through the Old Town’s cobblestone streets. Have dinner at a traditional Franconian restaurant, and savor regional specialties such as Schäufele (roast pork shoulder) and a local beer.

Looking for a hotel in Nuremberg near the train station? Check out our travel guide here →

Day 5: Dive Deeper into Nuremberg’s History

Morning: Visit the Nazi Party Rally Grounds
On Day 5, visit the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, located a short tram ride from the city center. The Documentation Center is currently under construction until the end of 2025. However, you can take a guided tour which we highly recommend.

Festive Option: Christmas Market
If you’re visiting during the festive season (starting from November 29th until December 24th), don’t miss Nuremberg’s world-famous Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt) in the Hauptmarkt square. The market, with its festive stalls, glowing lights, and mulled wine, is one of Germany’s best-known Christmas events. It’s the perfect place to enjoy holiday treats and shop for handcrafted gifts.

Midday: Lunch at Bratwurstglöcklein
For lunch, make your way to Bratwurstglöcklein, a historic restaurant located in the Handwerkerhof, a charming medieval-style craftsmen’s courtyard near Nuremberg’s main train station. Known for serving the city’s famous grilled Nuremberg sausages, this spot offers an authentic Franconian dining experience. It’s a perfect place to relax, enjoy traditional food, and soak up the atmosphere before continuing your day of exploration in the Old Town.

Afternoon: More Sightseeing or Leisure Time
In the afternoon, enjoy some leisure time or continue exploring Nuremberg’s rich culture. Consider visiting the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, home to a vast collection of German art and artifacts. Alternatively, take a leisurely walk along the Pegnitz River or through one of the city’s many parks.

Evening: Final Dinner in Nuremberg
End your second day in Nuremberg with a delightful dinner in one of the city’s traditional restaurants. If you are visiting during the festive season, you can also have a dinner at the Christmas market and try out different local food.

Day 6: Munich

Morning: Travel from Nuremberg to Munich

After breakfast in Nuremberg, hop on a train to Munich (about 1.5 hours). Munich, the capital of Bavaria, offers a mix of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and lively beer gardens. Once you’ve arrived and checked into your hotel, start exploring the city.

Mid-Morning: Marienplatz and the Old Town

Begin your Munich adventure at Marienplatz, the heart of the city. Here, you’ll find the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) with its famous Glockenspiel, which plays daily at 11 AM and noon. Stroll through the Old Town’s charming streets, lined with historic buildings, shops, and cafés.

Lunch at Viktualienmarkt

For lunch, head to the Viktualienmarkt, Munich’s most famous food market. Grab a bite from one of the many stalls offering traditional Bavarian dishes, fresh produce, and baked goods. It’s a lively spot to experience local flavors while enjoying the outdoor atmosphere.

Evening: Dinner at Hofbräuhaus

End your day with a traditional Bavarian dinner at Hofbräuhaus, one of Munich’s most famous beer halls. Enjoy hearty dishes like Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) and pair them with Munich’s iconic beers. The lively atmosphere and live music will give you a true taste of Bavarian culture.

Day 7: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein

Morning: Travel to Neuschwanstein Castle
Today is dedicated to visiting the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle, one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. Take a train to Füssen (about 2 hours), where you can catch a shuttle or take a scenic 30-minute walk up to the castle.

Mid-Morning: Explore Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein is the fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, the castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Take a guided tour to explore the lavish interiors, including the Throne Room and the opulent King’s quarters.

Lunch at Hohenschwangau Village
After your castle visit, stop for lunch in Hohenschwangau Village, located at the foot of the castle. You’ll find several restaurants offering traditional Bavarian fare, perfect for refueling after your morning exploration.

Afternoon: Walk to Marienbrücke
If you’re up for more adventure, take a short walk to Marienbrücke, the bridge that offers the best views of Neuschwanstein Castle and the surrounding valley. It’s a great photo opportunity and a beautiful spot to appreciate the castle’s grandeur.

Evening: Return to Munich
In the late afternoon, head back to Munich by train. Spend your evening at a local restaurant or a cozy beer garden, enjoying a relaxing dinner after a day of sightseeing.

Day 8: Explore More of Munich

Morning: Nymphenburg Palace or English Garden
If you’re up for more sightseeing, start your day with a visit to Nymphenburg Palace, one of Europe’s grandest royal residences. Explore its lavish Baroque interiors and stroll through the extensive gardens, which feature ponds, fountains, and pavilions. This is a great option if you’re looking to dive deeper into Munich’s regal history.

However, if you prefer a more laid-back start to your day, you can take a break from sightseeing and head to the English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in the world. Relax and enjoy a traditional lunch at the Chinese Tower, one of the park’s famous beer gardens. Here, you can savor a cold beer, enjoy Bavarian dishes, and listen to live folklore music in the open air—perfect for soaking in Munich’s vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. When going back to the city centre, stop by the Eisbachwelle and watch the surfers.

Afternoon: Continue Exploring or Take It Easy
If you’re feeling energized and want to keep exploring, the BMW Museum is a great choice, especially for car enthusiasts. The museum showcases BMW’s rich history and classic car models, and it’s located right next to the impressive Olympic Park, where you can walk around the 1972 Olympic stadium.

Alternatively, if you’d rather go at a slower pace, consider hopping on a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour. It’s a convenient way to see more of Munich’s highlights without rushing around. You can explore the city at your own speed, hopping off at attractions like the Residenz, Viktualienmarkt, or the Deutsches Museum, or simply sit back and enjoy the ride.

Day 9: Cologne

Morning: Arrival in Cologne
Start your day with a morning train from Munich to Cologne (about 4.5 hours). Once in Cologne, check into your hotel and take some time to settle in.

Mid-Morning: Cologne Cathedral and Old Town
Take a leisurely visit to the Cologne Cathedral, the city’s most famous attraction. Admire its grand Gothic architecture and, if you prefer, skip the climb to the top and simply enjoy the beautiful interior. Afterward, wander through the Old Town (Altstadt), filled with historic buildings, charming streets, and quaint cafés.

Lunch in the Old Town
For lunch, choose one of the many traditional restaurants or beer halls in the Old Town. Sit back and enjoy local specialties like Kölsch beer with Halver Hahn (rye bread with cheese and mustard), all while people-watching in one of the picturesque squares.

Afternoon: Relax by the Rhine or Take a River Cruise
Spend the afternoon relaxing along the Rhine River Promenade or take a short Rhine River cruise to see the city from a different perspective. The boat trips are a laid-back way to soak in the views of Cologne’s skyline and famous bridges without the rush of sightseeing.

Evening: Sunset Drinks at a Rooftop Bar
End the day with a relaxed dinner and drinks at a rooftop bar overlooking the city or the Rhine. You can enjoy the sunset views while reflecting on your journey through Germany. Cologne’s relaxed vibe will help you unwind before your departure the next day.

Day 10: Fly out of Frankfurt

Morning: Train to Frankfurt
Take a mid-morning train to Frankfurt Airport (around 1 hour). If you prefer a slower start, enjoy a relaxed breakfast in Cologne before heading to the airport.

If you are looking for hotels near the Frankfurt airport, keep on reading here: Best hotels in walking distance to Frankfurt airport

FAQ: 10 days in Germany

Conclusion: 10 day itinerary for Germany

In conclusion, Germany offers an incredible variety of experiences for every type of traveler. With its efficient train network, you can explore the country with ease—no need for a rental car if you prefer the convenience of public transport.

This 10-day itinerary takes you from bustling cities like Cologne to charming medieval towns such as Rothenburg ob der Tauber, all the way to the fairy-tale magic of Neuschwanstein Castle. You’ll experience the rich history of Nuremberg, the energy of Munich, and the stunning landscapes of Bavaria.

While 10 days is a great amount of time to explore some of the country’s most popular destinations, there is still so much more to see and do.

So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Germany!

Keep on reading here:

• Packing List for Germany in Winter: What to Pack and what not?
• 9 Best Hotels in Nuremberg Near the Train Station
• Things To Avoid in Germany as a Tourist: The Top Mistakes
• Where to Buy Neuschwanstein Castle Tickets?
• Packing List for Germany in Summer: What are the essentials?
• Do you need a travel plug adapter for Germany?
• Is Tap water drinkable in Germany?
• Local Advice on getting a rental car in Germany