Discover our North and South Germany itineraries
Planning a trip to Germany? You’re in the right place. This country strikes the perfect balance between spectacular nature and fast-paced metropolises, making it a one-of-a-kind destination.
Whether you want to experience North Germany’s dynamic pace or visit South Germany’s quaint towns, our guide has everything you need to know. Get ready to explore the country’s wonders with our six-day itineraries.
Travelling to Germany from the UK
Travelling to Germany by ferry is easy with DFDS. Our overnight Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry crossing is the fastest way to start exploring the country. Sailing with DFDS means enjoying fantastic onboard facilities, including Duty Free shopping, restaurants and family-friendly entertainment.
For those traveling from Dover, our Channel route is another great option. DFDS operates ferries from Dover to Calais and Dunkirk, offering a scenic route to the continent. This allows travellers to drive with easy access to northern France and onward travel to Germany.
Travelling with pets? We provide safe and comfortable transportation for your furry friends. You can also bring your vehicle and as much luggage as you need. Please note that on Dover-France routes, pets must stay in your vehicle and foot passengers are not permitted.
Our customer service pages provide advice and live updates about your booking. If you have any other questions, browse our FAQs or contact us.
Itinerary #1: The best of northern Germany
From Cologne’s stunning cathedral and Hamburg’s maritime heritage to Berlin’s historic landmarks, North Germany exceeds all expectations. Discover our six-day itinerary below.
Day | Highlights | Distance |
Days 1-2 | Cologne – Hamburg | 3h 50 mins |
Days 3-4 | Hamburg – Hannover – Berlin | 2h 40 mins/ 3h 20 mins |
Days 5-6 | Berlin – Leipzig | 4h |
Days 1 & 2
Your North Germany itinerary starts in Cologne, with its mix of old and new architecture. The highlight? Its Gothic-style cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Locals love it so much that their motto is, ‘Home is where the Dom is’. After visiting the cathedral, head to the Zoological Garden and enjoy a sweet treat at the city’s Chocolate Museum.
On your second day, enjoy Hamburg’s vibrant atmosphere on a stroll along the port. Visit the waterfront to learn more about Hamburg’s maritime history before exploring the Reeperbahn, the entertainment district.
Days 3 & 4
Before continuing your trip, stop at Hamburg’s Fischmarkt for a tasty snack. Then, head south towards Hannover, one of Germany’s greenest cities. It’s home to fascinating museums, stunning architecture and a lively nightlife. Wander around the Old Town and take a self-guided tour of the Red Thread trail. This will take you past famous sites like the Opera House, Market Church and the Ernst-August-Galerie.
On your fourth day, it’s time to explore the German capital. Berlin is a unique city with plenty to offer. Art enthusiasts will love the East Side Gallery and the König Galerie, while history buffs will enjoy visiting the Reichstag and Charlottenburg Palace. Stroll around Kreuzberg and enjoy a coffee in a third-wave café.
Days 5 & 6
With so many things to see and do, Berlin deserves more of your time. Spend your fifth day exploring the German capital, starting from Mitte. The most popular attractions here include the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Cathedral, Alexanderplatz and the TV Tower. Unwind in Tiergarten Park after a busy day.
In the afternoon, head to Leipzig, one of Germany’s leading cultural hubs. Soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere in the Old Town, and be sure to visit the town hall, St. Thomas Church and the Battle of the Nations Monument. Rent a bike or canoe along the Karl-Heine Canal to admire Leipzig’s beauty from another perspective.
Itinerary #2: The best of southern Germany
Southern Germany is a treasure trove of glorious countryside and fairytale-like villages, so gear up and get ready to explore. Here’s our favourite six-day itinerary.
Day | Highlights | Distance |
Days 1-2 | Frankfurt – Rothenburg ob der Tauber | 2h |
Days 3-4 | Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Nuremberg – Munich | 1h 15 mins/2h |
Days 5-6 | Munich – Schwangau | 1h 50 mins |
Days 1 & 2
Germany’s financial capital, Frankfurt, is the perfect starting point for discovering the wonders of the south. Home to a thriving café culture, outdoor food markets and some of the world’s finest museums, there’s never a dull moment in this city. Explore the DomRömer Quarter and the ‘new’ Old Town, and head to the Main Tower for sweeping views.
Then, travel along the Romantic Road towards one of Germany’s most characteristic places: Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Visiting this town feels like going back to the Middle Ages, with traditional half-timbered houses scattered across the centre. Stop in the Plönlein (little square) and take a moment to admire Rothenburg’s charm at its finest. Then, head over to the Old Town Walls before unwinding in the castle garden.
Visiting Germany at Christmastime? Rothenburg boasts some of the best Christmas markets.
Days 3 & 4
The journey back to the Middle Ages continues as you travel to Nuremberg, one of Germany’s crowning jewels. Home to Europe’s first printing press, Bavaria’s second-biggest city is a treat for the soul. Despite being severely damaged during WWII, the Old Town shines brighter than ever today. Stroll around its cobbled streets and marvel at Nuremberg Castle, the Hauptmarkt and the historic city walls.
In the evening, travel to Munich, one of Europe’s brewing hotspots and the home of Oktoberfest. But the Bavarian capital is much more than its ales! Walk around the Marienplatz and watch out for the clock tower’s performance. Visit the Munich Residenz, an impressive palace with artefacts from the Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical periods.
Days 5 & 6
Before heading to Bavaria’s most iconic landmark, spend a morning exploring Munich’s English Garden. This 18th-century park covers 50,000 square metres and is a popular spot among locals and visitors for outdoor activities and relaxation. The park’s highlight is the Chinese Tower, a 25-metre-tall structure.
Once you’ve recharged your batteries, travel to Schwangau and admire Neuschwanstein Castle. Dominating the Bavarian Alps’ landscape, this neo-Gothic, neo-Romanesque masterpiece is nothing short of spectacular. Because of its strategically unimportant location, the castle survived destruction during WWII, meaning all rooms are the originals.
If you’d like to include other castles in your itinerary, read our guide to the 10 most famous castles in Germany for inspiration.
What to pack for six days in Germany
Unsure what to pack for your trip to Germany? We’ve compiled a handy checklist to help you get organised.
Essentials:
1 or 2 pairs of comfortable shoes or boots
1 jacket or coat, depending on the weather
5-6 outfits
5-6 sets of underwear
5-6 pairs of socks
1 set of pyjamas
Backpack or bag to store belongings
Toiletry bag
Phone charger and adaptor
Medicines
Useful extras:
Reusable water bottle
Umbrella
Camera
Sunglasses
Hat, scarf and gloves
Remember to bring all essential documents, including a valid passport, a visa (if applicable), a copy of your travel insurance and emergency contact details.
Our routes
Newcastle to Amsterdam
If you’re travelling to Holland from the north of England, our Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry crossing is your best option. Sail overnight and enjoy maximum comfort, Duty Free shopping and fantastic entertainment throughout the day.
Dover to Dunkirk
With a journey time of just 2 hours, our Dover to Dunkirk ferry crossing gives you access to Belgium, France, the Netherlands and more. Enjoy dining and Duty Free shopping on board.
Dover to Calais
Hop aboard our most popular ferry crossing, Dover to Calais, and arrive in France in just 100 minutes. There are many ways to spend time on board, from dining to Duty Free shopping.
