Tour Description
Immerse yourself in 2000 years of history and culture as you crisscross the German countryside experiencing one of the worlds most renowned beer producing countries. Take in the charms of the Rhine River while visiting the cities of Koblenz and Cologne, a major cultural center with more than 30 museums and rich heritage. Come find out why Germany is ranked fourth in the world in per-capita beer consumption. This country is known not only for the quality and variety of beer it produces, but also for creating a wide assortment of beer glasses and steins to help you enjoy each flavor to the fullest.
Highlights
- The largest beer museum in the world
- Koblenz, a 2000 year old town
- Cologne, the art capital on the Rhine
Bamberg - 2 nights
Day 1: Arrive Bamberg
This morning arrive at Frankfurt Airport. Pass through passport control and collect your suitcases to pass through customs. As you enter the airport there will be an assistant waiting to meet you and to escort you to your waiting motor coach. Your destination this morning is the town of Bamberg. Bamberg is located in Upper Franconia on the river Regnitz and is known for its Rauchbier (smoked beer). The town itself has historical significance as it was one of the few cities that survived the bombings of WWII. After arrival in town you are free to enjoy all the wonderful taverns, breweries and pubs this town has to offer. Perhaps a visit to Schlenkerla Tavern to sample the famous Schlenkerla Rauchbier will be a top priority.
Day 2:
After breakfast this morning you will set out for the nearby town of Bayreuth, the capital of Upper Franconia. Bayreuth is situated in the heart of Beer Franconia and few other towns have such a wide range of breweries and choice of beers. First you will enjoy a walking tour of this very interesting town. See the house where Richard Wagner lived, the hexagonal castle tower and much more. After free time for lunch you will visit the Maisel Brewery and Cooperage museum, the largest beer museum in the world. Here you can explore this complete and authentic brewery up close in an interactive experience. Visit the machine room, the brewing rooms and the cooperage and discover firsthand the traditional fine art of brewing. Conclude your tour in the old bottling plant with a complimentary glass of Maisel's Weisse. Later return to Bamburg where you are free for the evening.
Dusseldorf - 4 nights
Day 3: Arrive Dusseldorf
This morning after breakfast you will be leaving the Franconia region and traveling west to the 2000 year old town of Koblenz. Situated on banks of both the Rhine and the Mosel rivers, this charming town has an abundance of cultural monuments and historical buildings. Enjoy some free time for lunch where you can dine in a typical Weinstube, a Wine Tavern, or perhaps you will find a Strausswirtschaft, a winery or wine grower's cottage, where you can sample homemade wine. After lunch you will enjoy a walking tour of this charming city seeing such sights as St. Floins Church, the German corner, Mint Square, and the Old Castle. Then, continue on to Dusseldrof for the balance of our stay.
Day 4:
This morning after breakfast you will set out to explore Dusseldorf. Enjoy a guided tour of the old town with its narrow lanes, old churches, quaint breweries and ancient pubs. See some of the important sights and the history of Altbier and home breweries. We will stop to tour one of the breweries in town and sample the Altbeir. This afternoon is free for you to continue exploring.
Day 5:
This morning after breakfast you will set out to explore Cologne, the art capital on the Rhine. See such sights as the Farina House, Birthplace of the Eau de Cologne, Colgone Cathedral in Gothic Style and a world heritage site. Perhaps enjoy a visit to Museum Ludwig which houses a large collection of Modern art including works from Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and the largest Picasso collection in Europe. Cologne is also known for the Kolsch which mimics the paleness and softness of Pilsner. Enjoy some free time to enjoy the pubs and beer gardens of Cologne. You will return to Dusseldorf in the afternoon.
Day 6:
This morning after breakfast you are off to visit some local Alt Breweries where we can learn more about their brewing process and sample some of the fine brews that are available. This afternoon we will return to Dusseldorf where you can enjoy free time before your group's farewell dinner together.
Day 7:
Today you will take a private coach transfer to the Frankfurt airport for your flight home.
Inclusions
- Accommodations: Bamberg 2 nights, Dusseldorf 4 nights
- Meals: Continental breakfast daily. Lunch and dinner as noted in itinerary
- Ground transportation via air conditioned luxury coach
- English speaking assistants and guides
- Admission tickets as outlined in itinerary
Download the Germany Brewery Tour pdf file.