Switzerland stole our hearts for a few days, but not to worry – there are even more European adventures in store for you.
Our dreamy Swiss experience ends with a beautiful dinner party, complete with delicious food, local music and, of course, the stunning Swiss Alps towering behind us. In the morning, we’re bound for Germany. Let’s go!
Rothenburg
Our first stop in Germany is Rothenburg, in northern Bavaria – a lovely village with a storybook feel. You’ll step off the motorcoach and wonder if you’ve gone back in time, as you explore this historic walled town and its medieval architecture.
After a good night’s sleep, a full day of Rothenburg awaits you, where you can visit the largest Christmas shop in Europe, indulge in delicious German sweets and experience the Ratstrinkstube Clock Tower. This world-famous clock chimes every hour, on the hour, and opens its face to reenact the legendary story of the brave mayor who drank nearly a gallon of wine to save his city from an evil count – now that’s a fairytale!
The performance venues here in Rothenburg are special. Choirs will perform at either Franziskanerkirche and St. Jakobskirche, stunning cathedrals that date to the 13th and 14th century, respectively. Bands will perform at Marktplatz, Rothenburg’s historic town center.
At dusk, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the Night Watchman Tour, a guided tour led by a “medieval” night watchman who will regale you with his tales of protecting the town. Don’t miss it – it’s one of the most famous walking tours in Europe.
Dachau
As we depart Germany and travel to Austria, we’ll stop in Dachau, the location of Nazi Germany’s first and longest-operating concentration camp. It’s difficult to comprehend the reality of the atrocities performed here, but it’s also a privilege to honor the lives lost and learn from this devasting time in human history.
Dachau was liberated by U.S. forces in 1945, but not before over 40,000 prisoners were brutally executed here. Together we’ll walk through the grounds and barracks where so many lives ended. You’ll leave the memorial with a better understanding of this dark moment in human history.
Our time in Germany allows us to experience history in so many forms. Don’t miss our next post, where we’ll explore the music, art and beauty of Salzburg and the Austrian countryside together.
A reminder – every group’s itinerary varies slightly, so this daydream may be a bit different than your on-the-ground adventure when it comes to the order of destinations, attractions you’ll visit, etc.