Honeymoon in Germany

Germany is an ideal honeymoon destination, offering a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, romantic cities, and magnificent castles. From the Bavarian Alps and beautiful wine valleys to historic towns and enchanting lakes, there is a rich variety of experiences to enjoy. Furthermore, Germany provides excellent value for money and has a well-developed tourist infrastructure that is less crowded than many other European destinations.

Romantic Cities in Germany

Heidelberg – The Classic Romance City

Situated along the banks of the Neckar River, at the edge of the Odenwald forest, Heidelberg boasts impressive Renaissance architecture, a vibrant art scene, and panoramic views of the city from the river.

What to do:

• Stroll hand in hand along the “Philosophers’ Way” for stunning views of the old town.
• Visit Heidelberg Castle, one of the most impressive castles in Germany (open daily from 8:00 to 18:00; entrance fee: €9).
• Explore the old town and the famous Alte Brücke (Old Bridge).
• Admire the “Hauptstraße,” one of the longest shopping streets in Europe.

Tip: Book a room with a river view at one of the romantic hotels, such as Hotel Zum Ritter, housed in a 16th-century Renaissance building (prices from €180 per night).

Rothenburg ob der Tauber – A Romantic Gem

Rothenburg ob der Tauber has become one of Germany’s most beloved destinations, featuring cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and charming squares, creating an idyllic setting for a romantic getaway.

What to see:

• Walk along the old city walls (open 24 hours; free entrance).
• Visit the Town Hall tower for breathtaking views (open from 10:00 to 17:00; entrance fee: €5).
• Don’t miss the Market Square (Marktplatz) and the stunning astronomical clock.
• Join the famous “Night Watchman” tour at 20:00 (cost: €12 per person).

Tips:

• Arrive early in the morning or consider an overnight stay to explore before the tour buses arrive.
• Hotel Eisenhut, located in a 16th-century building, offers particularly romantic accommodations (prices from €160 per night).
• To fully immerse yourself in Rothenburg, consider spending the night there.

Dresden – “Florence of the North”

Dresden is an impressive city known for its stunning Baroque architecture. Stroll along the riverfront terraces, admire the city’s remarkable art treasures, and enjoy panoramic views during a romantic cruise on the Elbe River.

Recommended destinations:

• Frauenkirche – an impressive church rebuilt after World War II.
• Zwinger Palace – a Baroque gem with stunning gardens (open from 6:00 to 20:00; garden entrance is free).
• Brühl Terrace – known as “The Balcony of Europe” for its spectacular river views.
• Semper Opera – one of the most beautiful opera houses in Europe (tours available for €12).

Tips:

• Book tickets for a classical concert at the famous opera house (prices starting at €30)—an unforgettable experience for couples.
• If you plan to visit multiple recommended destinations, consider purchasing a combined ticket to save money.

Bamberg – Medieval Beauty

Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a well-preserved medieval city center. The Regnitz River flows through this picturesque landscape, featuring cobbled alleys, half-timbered houses, and numerous bridges that connect the old town to its surroundings.

What to Try:

• “Little Venice” (Klein Venedig) – a charming area known as “Little Venice.”
• The Imperial Cathedral (Kaiserdom) – a stunning example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture.
• The Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) – uniquely situated on a small island in the river.
• Sample Bamberg’s famous smoked beer (Rauchbier) at the traditional Schlenkerla brewery.

Tip: Rent a small boat for a romantic cruise on the Regnitz River (about €25 per hour) to see the city from a different perspective.

Munich – Perfect Starting Point for Journeys

Though it is a large city, Munich is rich in romantic spots and serves as a convenient base for planning day trips in the area.

Attractions Worth Visiting:

• The English Garden (Englischer Garten) – one of the largest urban parks in the world.
• Marienplatz square – home to the famous clock dancers.
• Nymphenburg Palace – an impressive Baroque palace set within magnificent gardens.
• Beer gardens (Biergärten), including the renowned Hofbräuhaus.

Tip: Purchase the Munich 3-day card for €39.90, which provides free rides on public transportation and discounts for many attractions.

Romantic Natural Sites

Black Forest – The Magic of Forests and Landscapes

The Black Forest, with its dense forests, charming villages, and tranquil lakes, is the perfect destination for couples seeking serenity. Hike among the towering trees or indulge in relaxation at one of the region’s renowned thermal spas.

Recommended Places:

• Baden-Baden – a luxurious spa town featuring thermal springs (entrance from €25).
• Titisee – a scenic lake enveloped by forests (lake cruise: €15 for half an hour).
• Triberg – home to Germany’s highest waterfall and famous cuckoo clocks.
• Black Forest Panorama Route – a breathtaking scenic drive (162 km).

Pro Tip: Avoid peak season (July-August) when prices can be about 30% higher and popular sites are crowded. Consider visiting in June or September for a more enjoyable experience.

Moselle Valley – Wine and Romance

The Moselle Valley stretches across southwestern Germany, France, and Luxembourg, showcasing some of the most stunning landscapes in Germany. The winding river meanders through hills adorned with vineyards, interspersed with picturesque villages and ancient castles.

What to Experience:

• Burg Eltz – One of the most stunning castles in Germany (entrance: €12).
• Cochem – A picturesque town featuring an impressive castle.
• Bernkastel-Kues – A charming wine town with medieval buildings.
• Riesling Tastings – Experience tastings of the region’s famous Riesling wine (starting from €15).

Pro tip: Consider booking a guided bicycle tour through the vineyards (approximately €60 per day), which includes stops for wine tastings—a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Lake Constance – Beauty Between Three Countries

Lake Constance borders not only southern Germany but also Switzerland and Austria and is surrounded by picturesque resort towns. Lindau, Konstanz, and Meersburg in Germany frequently rank as the most beautiful lakeside cities, offering a variety of activities for newlyweds.

Recommended towns:

• Lindau – An island city with a picturesque harbor and lighthouse.
• Meersburg – A medieval town with two castles.
• Konstanz – The largest city on the lake, boasting a historic city center.

Romantic activities:

• Boat trip on the lake (from €20 per person).
• Bicycle tour around the lake (bike rental: €20 per day).
• Romantic dinner with lake views at sunset.

Pro tip: Purchase the Bodensee Card for three days (€69), which provides free access to ferries and over 40 attractions around the lake.

Berchtesgaden – A Piece of Alpine Paradise

This small town is located in the southeastern corner of Germany, right on the Austrian border. If you envision spending your honeymoon in a magical winter kingdom surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Berchtesgaden may be the perfect destination.

Points of interest:

• Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus) – A spectacular viewing platform (open May to October, entrance: €17).
• Königssee – An emerald-colored Alpine lake offering eco-friendly boat tours (cruise: €20).
• Berchtesgaden Salt Mine (Salzbergwerk) – An experiential tour of an ancient salt mine (entrance: €18).
• Berchtesgaden National Park – Features amazing hiking trails of varying difficulty levels.

Pro tip: Choose accommodation in one of the traditional inns (Gasthöfe) with mountain views instead of a regular hotel for a more authentic experience at a similar price (from €120 per night).

Romantic Experiences in Germany

Castle Stay: An Unforgettable Royal Experience

Germany is famous for its castles, many of which have been converted into luxury hotels. Staying in one of these will elevate your honeymoon to a magical level.

Recommended castle-hotels:

• Castle Schönburg (Hotel Schönburg) – Located in the Rhine Valley, from €250 per night.
• Castle Colmberg – A 13th-century castle in the heart of Bavaria, from €150 per night.
• Parkhotel Wasserburg Anholt – A beautiful moated castle, from €200 per night.
• Johann Lafers Stromburg – a castle featuring a Michelin-starred restaurant, starting from €230 per night.

Pro tip: Consider booking the special “Romance” package, which typically includes a bottle of champagne, a special dinner, and additional services for an extra €50-100. It’s worth every penny.

Brewery Tour: A Bubbly Experience

German beer ranks among the best in the world, and a brewery tour can be both enjoyable and educational for honeymooners. Some of Germany’s oldest and most famous breweries are located in Berlin and Munich.

Recommended breweries:

• Riegele Brewery – based in Augsburg, operating since 1386, tours
  cost €12.
• Hofbräuhaus – Munich’s most famous and busiest beer
  hall.
• Crew Republic – a modern boutique brewery in Munich, with tours priced at €15, including
  tastings.
• Weihenstephan – the oldest brewery in the world, located near Munich, with English tours
  for €11.

Pro tip: In Munich, book the “Beer & Brezeln Tour” for €35, which combines visits to local breweries with historical insights and premium beer tastings.

The Romantic Road: A Journey of Love

The Romantic Road stretches from Würzburg to Füssen, offering an unforgettable journey for couples. Along the way, you can discover medieval towns, legendary castles, and picturesque vineyards. Start your trip from south to north to avoid large tourist groups, and rent a car (€50 per day) to enjoy the scenic route at a leisurely pace, ideally over 5-7 days.

Points of interest along the way:

• Würzburg – home to the magnificent Residence Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage
  site.
• Dinkelsbühl – a charming walled town with colorful half-timbered
  houses.
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber – one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities.
• Füssen – the gateway to the iconic Neuschwanstein
  Castle.

Pro tip: Purchase tickets for Neuschwanstein at least two weeks in advance via the official website, and plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. It’s worth paying an extra €2.50 for the convenience of online advance booking.

Visiting Bavarian Castles – A Disney Dream

The castles of Germany, particularly in Bavaria, are among the most beautiful in the world. Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired the famous Disney castle, is a must-visit for honeymooning couples.

Must-see castles:

• Neuschwanstein Castle – the legendary castle, entrance
  fee: €17.50.
• Hohenschwangau Castle – the childhood residence of King Ludwig II, entrance
  fee: €16.
• Linderhof Palace – a small yet exquisite Rococo palace, entrance
  fee: €10.
• Herrenchiemsee – known as the “Bavarian Versailles,” located on an island in Lake Chiemsee, entrance
  fee: €12.

Pro tip: Book tickets for Neuschwanstein at least two weeks in advance on the official website and aim for early morning or late afternoon visits to avoid crowds. Paying an extra €2.50 for online advance booking is worth it.

Transportation

Germany boasts an excellent transportation infrastructure that provides easy and convenient access to various destinations. The choice of transportation can greatly affect the quality of your honeymoon.

Transportation Options:

• Trains: Deutsche Bahn offers an extensive and efficient network of trains connecting all major cities.
  • Advantages: Comfort, efficiency, beautiful scenery, and the ability to relax or work during the journey.
  • Eurail Germany Pass (5 days in a month): Approximately €240 per person.
• Car Rental: Ideal for trips to small villages and along the “Romantic Road.”
  • Advantages: Flexibility, convenience, and the ability to explore less popular tourist destinations.
  • Price: €50-80 per day for a small car.
• Urban Public Transportation: Major German cities have excellent public transport systems.
  • Advantages: Affordable, efficient, and ideal for navigating the city.
  • Day Ticket: €7-9; Weekly Ticket: €30-40.

Pro Tip: If you plan to travel frequently by train, consider purchasing a “Bahn Card 25” (about €60), which provides a 25% discount on all train journeys for a year. Even during a two-week trip, you can quickly recoup your investment.

Recommended Honeymoon Itineraries (10 days)

Itinerary 1: Southern Germany and the Alps

This route explores Bavaria, the Rhine, and a small part of Austria, offering a delightful mix of stunning landscapes, fairy-tale castles, and historic cities.

Days 1-2: Munich

• Arrive and acclimate in
  Munich.
• Tour the old town, including
  Marienplatz.
• Visit the English Garden and enjoy dinner in a beer
  garden.
• Take a full-day tour of Nymphenburg Palace and the Technical
  Museum.

Days 3-4: Füssen and Neuschwanstein Castle

• Travel to Füssen (about 2 hours from
  Munich).
• Visit Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau
  castles.
• Explore Lake Forgensee or
  Alpsee.
• Stay in one of the romantic hotels in the
  area.

Day 5: Oberammergau

• Travel to Oberammergau (45 minutes from
  Füssen).
• Explore the picturesque village known for its wall
  paintings.
• Visit the Wieskirche church, a stunning example of Rococo
  architecture.
• Continue your journey to Berchtesgaden (about a 2.5-hour
  drive).

Days 6-7: Berchtesgaden

• Visit Königssee lake and enjoy a boat
  trip.
• Ascend to the Eagle’s Nest
  (Kehlsteinhaus).
• Tour the ancient salt
  mine.
• Hike in Berchtesgaden National
  Park.

Days 8-9: Salzburg, Austria

• Travel to Salzburg (30 minutes from
  Berchtesgaden).
• Explore the old town and visit sites from “The Sound of
  Music.”
• Visit Hohensalzburg
  Fortress.
• Take a day trip to the Salzkammergut lake
  region.

Day 10: Return to Munich

• Return to Munich (about one and a half hours)
• Last-minute shopping and celebratory dinner
• Flight back

Tip: Consider staying in Berchtesgaden and making a day trip to Salzburg. This option saves time on hotel transfers and allows you to enjoy the stunning Alpine scenery of Berchtesgaden in the morning and evening.

Itinerary 2: The Romantic Road and Rhine Valley

This route highlights historic cities, castles, and wine regions, providing the ultimate romantic atmosphere in Germany:

Day 1-2: Munich

• Arrival and acclimation in Munich
• Tour of the city center and BMW Museum
• Visit to the Residenz Palace and Odeonsplatz
• Dinner at a traditional Bavarian restaurant

Day 3-4: Rothenburg ob der Tauber

• Travel to Rothenburg (about 2.5 hours from Munich)
• Tour of the walled old town
• Walk along the city walls
• Participate in the Night Watchman Tour
• Visit the year-round Christmas Museum

Day 5: Würzburg

• Travel to Würzburg (about 1 hour from Rothenburg)
• Explore the magnificent Residence Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Tour Marienberg Fortress
• Enjoy tastings of local Franconian wine

Day 6-7: Heidelberg

• Travel to Heidelberg (about 2 hours from Würzburg)
• Visit the impressive Heidelberg Castle
• Stroll along the “Philosophers’ Way” for panoramic views
• Enjoy a romantic cruise on the Neckar River
• Visit the ancient university and library

Day 8-9: Rhine Valley and Moselle Valley

• Travel to the Rhine Valley (about 1.5 hours from Heidelberg)
• Take a cruise in the romantic Rhine region between Bingen and Rüdesheim
• Visit Marksburg Castle or Rheinfels Castle
• Tour wineries and participate in Riesling wine tastings
• Explore the picturesque town of Bacharach

Day 10: Return to Munich or Flight from Frankfurt

• Travel to Munich or Frankfurt (depending on your return flight destination)
• Last chance for shopping and celebratory dinner
• Flight back

Pro tip for the itinerary: In the Rhine Valley, consider staying in smaller, more picturesque towns such as Bacharach or Sankt Goar instead of larger cities. The intimate atmosphere of these towns is perfect for a honeymoon.

Culinary Experiences for Couples

One of the highlights of a honeymoon is enjoying fine food and drinks. Germany offers much more than just sausages and schnitzels, providing a diverse range of culinary experiences for couples.

Recommended Romantic Restaurants

• Käfer-Schänke in Munich – An upscale restaurant featuring an intimate atmosphere and gourmet dishes (dinner for two: €150-200)
• Zirbelstube in Stuttgart – A Michelin-starred restaurant with warm Alpine decor (tasting menu: €180 per person)
• Weinhaus Weiler, Heidelberg – A romantic restaurant with river views (meal for a couple: €100-150).
• Heiliggeist, Heidelberg – A restaurant located in a historic 14th-century church (meal for a couple: €80-120).
• Zur Letzten Instanz, Berlin – The oldest restaurant in Berlin, featuring a historic atmosphere (meal for a couple: €70-100).

Pro tip: Consider booking a table at upscale restaurants for lunch instead of dinner; many offer a “business menu” (Mittagsmenü) at a significantly reduced price, while maintaining the same quality.

Wine and Sweet Experiences

• Wine Tastings in the Moselle Valley – Visit ancient wineries and sample local Riesling wines (guided tour: €25-40 per person).
• Chocolate Tables in Cologne – At the Imhoff-Stollwerck Chocolate Museum, enjoy an endless chocolate table (entrance: €13).
• Praline Workshop in Lübeck – Learn to make local pralines featuring famous marzipan (€60-80 per couple).
• Black Forest Cake Route – Explore the southern Black Forest while tasting the famous cake in various versions.

Pro tip: In the Rhine and Moselle valleys, seek out small wineries that offer intimate tasting experiences rather than large commercial wineries. Ask for local recommendations at your accommodation.