How To Spend One Week in Germany? In-depth Germany Itinerary
Germany is a country full of history, culture, and vibrant cities that offer an incredible mix of old-world charm and modern energy. If you only have one week to explore, focusing on three of the country’s most iconic cities, Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt, is a great way to get a well-rounded experience of Germany’s unique offerings.
This one-week Germany itinerary will take you through Berlin’s history, Munich’s Bavarian culture, and Frankfurt’s modern skyline, all while giving you enough time to explore and discover the must-see attractions in each city.
Let’s dive into this perfect one-week Germany itinerary that combines historical landmarks, museums, cultural experiences, and more!
Day 1-3: Exploring Berlin
Must-See Attractions in Berlin
Berlin is a city of history, innovation, and culture, and its incredible landmarks tell stories of the past. From the Berlin Wall to the Brandenburg Gate, there’s no shortage of historical sites to visit. Berlin is also a hub for modern art, with numerous galleries and a vibrant cultural scene.
Day 1: Arrival and Historic Sights
Start your Berlin adventure by visiting the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of German unity. Nearby, you’ll find the Reichstag Building, home to the German Parliament, with its famous glass dome offering stunning views of the city.
Next, make your way to Unter den Linden, a grand boulevard lined with historic buildings. From there, head to Alexanderplatz and check out the Berlin TV Tower, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
Finish your first day with a visit to the Berlin Wall Memorial and East Side Gallery, where remnants of the wall are preserved as a symbol of the city’s past.
Day 2: Museums and Modern Berlin
Day 2 is all about culture! Start at the Pergamon Museum on Museum Island, home to one of the world’s most impressive collections of ancient artifacts. Don’t miss the Altes Museum and Bode Museum as well.
In the afternoon, head to Potsdamer Platz to explore modern Berlin. This area is home to impressive modern architecture, luxury shopping centers, and restaurants. You can also visit the Berlin Philharmonic if you’re a music lover or catch a show at the Berlin State Opera.
Day 3: Day Trips from Berlin
On your final day in Berlin, take a day trip to nearby destinations. You can visit the stunning Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam or explore Wannsee, a lakeside area known for its beautiful views and historic villas.
Sanssouci Palace
Sanssouci Palace, located in Potsdam just outside Berlin, is a masterpiece of Rococo architecture and a symbol of Prussian elegance. Built in the 18th century as the summer residence of Frederick the Great, the palace was designed for relaxation, its name literally means “without worry” in French.
Unlike the grand scale of Versailles, Sanssouci is more intimate and charming, with pastel-colored interiors, gilded details, and sprawling terraced gardens filled with fountains, sculptures, and vineyards. Surrounded by tranquility, it reflects the king’s love for philosophy, music, and art, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in history and beauty.
Wannsee
Wannsee is a picturesque lakeside area in southwest Berlin, known for its serene beauty, historic villas, and recreational charm. It’s home to the Großer Wannsee, one of Berlin’s largest lakes, where locals and visitors flock for swimming, boating, and sunbathing, especially at Strandbad Wannsee, a historic lido with a long sandy beach.
Beyond its leisure appeal, Wannsee holds deep historical significance. The infamous Wannsee Conference took place here in 1942, and today, the villa where it occurred serves as a memorial and educational site.
Whether you’re drawn to its natural scenery or its layered past, Wannsee offers a peaceful yet thought-provoking escape.
Day 4-5: Discovering Munich
Must-See Attractions in Munich
Munich is the capital of Bavaria and a city that beautifully blends traditional Bavarian culture with a modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere. Famous for its beer gardens, historic architecture, and art museums, all are worth including in a one-week Germany Itinerary.
Day 4: Arrival and Bavarian Culture
Arrive in Munich and begin your exploration at the Marienplatz, the central square of the city, where you’ll find the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus). Be sure to catch the Glockenspiel show at the top of the hour.
Next, head to the Viktualienmarkt, a lively market offering local Bavarian delicacies like sausages, pretzels, and cheeses. Munich is also famous for its beer gardens, so make sure to relax with a beer at Hofbräuhaus, one of the city’s oldest and most famous beer halls.
Day 5: Castles and Outdoor Activities
On Day 5, take a trip to the Neuschwanstein Castle, about a two-hour drive from Munich. This fairy-tale castle was the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Explore the castle’s impressive architecture and enjoy the breathtaking alpine scenery.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle is a storybook fortress nestled in the Bavarian Alps, near the town of Füssen in southern Germany. Commissioned by King Ludwig II in the 19th century, it was inspired by romantic ideals and medieval legends, making it one of the most iconic castles in the world.
With its soaring towers, fairytale silhouette, and breathtaking mountain backdrop, it looks like it was plucked straight from a dream, and in fact, it inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Inside, the richly decorated rooms reflect Ludwig’s fascination with mythology, music, and fantasy. Visiting Neuschwanstein feels like stepping into another world, where history and imagination blend seamlessly.
Back in Munich, take a walk in the English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in Germany and, the world. You can also rent a bike and explore the Olympic Park or head to BMW Welt if you’re interested in cars and technology.
English Garden
The English Garden (Englischer Garten) in Munich is one of the largest urban parks in the world—even bigger than New York’s Central Park. Spanning lush meadows, shaded trails, and peaceful streams, it offers a perfect blend of nature and city life.
Locals come here to picnic, cycle, or simply unwind by the water. You’ll also find a traditional beer garden at the Chinese Tower and even a spot where surfers ride a standing wave on the Eisbach River.
Whether you’re strolling through tranquil paths or soaking in Bavarian culture, the English Garden is a must-visit escape in the heart of Munich.
Day 6-7: Exploring Frankfurt
Must-See Attractions in Frankfurt
Frankfurt, Germany’s financial capital, is known for its striking skyline, museums, and old town charm. It’s a city where tradition meets modernity, offering a unique blend of historical sites and cutting-edge architecture.
Day 6: Arrival and Historic Sights
Arrive in Frankfurt and start your visit at the Römerberg, the historic heart of the city. Here you’ll find medieval buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming cafes.
Römerberg
Römerberg is the historic heart of Frankfurt’s Old Town, where centuries of history come alive amid charming half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets. This picturesque square has been the city’s center since the Middle Ages, hosting markets, festivals, and coronation ceremonies.
At its core is the Römer, Frankfurt’s iconic town hall, with its distinctive stepped gables and centuries-old heritage. Surrounding the square are beautifully restored buildings, cafés, and landmarks like St. Nicholas Church.
Whether you’re exploring its architecture or soaking up the lively atmosphere, Römerberg offers a glimpse into Frankfurt’s past with a vibrant, timeless charm.
Frankfurt Cathedral
Frankfurt Cathedral, also known as St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral (Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus), is a stunning Gothic structure that stands tall in the city’s skyline. Though never an official cathedral, it earned its prestigious title because it was the site of Holy Roman Emperor coronations for centuries.
Its red sandstone exterior and towering 95-meter spire make it one of Frankfurt’s most striking landmarks. Inside, the cathedral features impressive vaulted ceilings, intricate altars, and centuries of history etched into every corner.
Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city, or simply admire the quiet grandeur of this symbol of Frankfurt’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
In the afternoon, visit the Städel Museum, one of Germany’s most renowned art museums, housing works from the Middle Ages to modern times.
Städel Museum
The Städel Museum in Frankfurt is one of Germany’s most prestigious art museums, home to over 700 years of European art. Its impressive collection spans from the early 14th century to contemporary works, featuring masterpieces by artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, Monet, Picasso, and Gerhard Richter.
The museum blends classical and modern architecture, with light-filled galleries and thoughtful curation that makes each visit inspiring. Whether you’re drawn to Renaissance portraits, Impressionist landscapes, or modern installations, the Städel offers a rich, immersive experience for art lovers of all kinds.
It’s a cultural gem that reflects Frankfurt’s deep appreciation for art and history.
Day 7: Modern Frankfurt and Departure
On your final day, take a walk along the River Main and visit Museumsufer (Museum Embankment), a stretch of museums that includes the German Film Museum and Museum of Modern Art.
Museumsufer
Museumsufer, which literally means “Museum Embankment,” is a world‑class cultural hotspot along the Main River in Frankfurt. This beautiful stretch of riverside is lined with over a dozen museums, each showcasing diverse fields—art, archaeology, architecture, film, and Jewish history.
From the sleek Museum of Modern Art (MMK) to the grand Städel Museum, each institution offers unique collections and exhibits, making it effortless to hop between eras and styles. In the summertime, the riverbanks burst with activity, open‑air exhibitions, lively book markets, and café terraces add to the charm.
Museumsufer is a must-visit for anyone eager to immerse themselves in Frankfurt’s rich cultural landscape and enjoy a scenic riverside stroll between galleries.
German Film Museum
The German Film Museum in Frankfurt is a fascinating place that brings the magic of cinema to life. Located along the Museumsufer, it takes visitors on a journey through the history and art of filmmaking, from early moving images to modern digital effects.
Inside, you’ll find everything from vintage cameras and editing tools to interactive exhibits where you can try green screen effects or explore how sound and light shape a film. The museum also has its own cinema that screens classics and international films, often with special themes or live music.
Whether you love old movies or just want to understand how films are made, the German Film Museum offers a hands-on, creative experience that’s both fun and educational.
Museum of Modern Art
The Museum of Modern Art in Frankfurt, often called MMK, is a bold and inspiring space dedicated to contemporary art. Its striking triangular building is as eye-catching as the art inside. The museum showcases works from the 1960s to today, including photography, sculpture, video, and large-scale installations.
You’ll find pieces by both famous international artists and emerging voices pushing creative boundaries. What makes MMK stand out is how it encourages visitors to think differently—some exhibits are playful, others thought, provoking, and many are deeply immersive.
It’s a must-visit if you’re curious about the ideas, emotions, and questions shaping today’s art world.
In the evening, enjoy panoramic views from the Main Tower, which has an observation deck on the 56th floor. Depending on your flight time, you can do some last-minute shopping at the Zeil, Frankfurt’s popular shopping street.
Tips for a Perfect Week in Germany
- Transportation: Use the German rail system (Deutsche Bahn) for quick and efficient travel between cities. Trains are comfortable and provide scenic views.
- Accommodations: Book hotels or Airbnbs near major transportation hubs to minimize travel time.
- Language: While many Germans speak English, learning a few basic German phrases will be appreciated.
- Currency: Germany uses the Euro (€), and credit cards are widely accepted. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments.
- Weather: Be prepared for changes in weather, especially if traveling in the shoulder seasons. Pack layers! Check out my best time to visit Germany ultimate guide.
Your Ultimate Germany Experience
In just one week, you can experience the rich history, culture, and modern energy that make Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt such iconic German cities.
From exploring Berlin’s historical landmarks to soaking up Bavarian culture in Munich and experiencing the modernity of Frankfurt, this itinerary offers a great way to make the most of your time in Germany.
Pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable trip!
