Germany Archives - Greatdays Group Travel

Black Forest and the High Road

Gina Halden — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:59:53 +0000

The Black Forest region boasts gentle valleys, waterfalls, spectacular gorges and mountains densely covered with fir and spruce. A quaint area of timber farmhouses, traditional local costume and world famous gâteau, the Schwarzwald is a delightful place to visit. The northern Black Forest region is home to the famous spa town of Baden-Baden.

Little Trains and Boats of the Rhine and Moselle

Gina Halden — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:04:56 +0000

The Rhine and Moselle Valleys have long been a favourite with visitors from the UK. Spectacular scenery, vine-clad slopes, ancient castles, picturesque towns and villages, and a warm welcome combine to offer memorable experiences. This tour is based in Boppard, on the banks of the majestic Rhine. The town has half-timbered houses, churches that require closer inspection, narrow alleyways and many Roman and medieval remains. There’s also a fine riverside promenade, ideal for a gentle stroll, or sitting and watching the many boats sailing along the Rhine. With tranquil views, delicious locally grown wines and a host of fairytale-worthy towns, the Rhine and Moselle Valleys are begging to be explored. Once you have visited this postcard perfect place, you’ll be sure to want to return.

Christmas Markets of the Rhine & Moselle Valleys

Tricia Parry — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 11:31:17 +0000

When it comes to Christmas Markets, nowhere does it better than Germany! The towns and cities along the Rhine and Moselle valleys provide an idyllic setting for a romantic Christmas market break. Half-timbered houses are festively decorated and are illuminated in splendour by the Christmas lights. The aromas of mulled wine from the local vineyards, gingerbread, roasted almonds and many more fill the streets. The region’s beautiful cities captivate visitors with rich history, labyrinthine old quarters, mediaeval market squares and striking cathedrals. The Christmas markets at Frankfurt are particularly famous and are quite large. If you want to visit the smaller Christmas markets, those in Rüdesheim, Boppard, Koblenz and Cochem are also popular. You will be spoilt for choice, but one thing you can be certain of is an unforgettable experience when visiting some of the best-loved Christmas markets in Germany.

Enchanting Christmas Markets on the Rhine (CroisiEurope) – NEW RIVER CRUISE

Gina Halden — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 12:58:37 +0000

Visit the magical Christmas Markets of the Rhine Valley and experience the tastes and smells of local specialities that fill the air surrounding traditional wooden chalets selling artisan gifts. For authentic German and French experiences visit traditional markets in Rūdesheim, Mainz and Strasbourg.

Our ship is operated by one of the leading river cruise companies ‘CroisiEurope’ who operate a 50+ fleet of standard and premium river and canal vessels with a minimum 4* standard of comfort, facilities and catering.

Cologne and the Rhine Valley Christmas Markets – NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

Gina Halden — Sat, 02 Aug 2025 11:01:56 +0000

Cologne is one of the most popular Christmas market destinations in Europe, offering several markets dotted around the city and which are renowned for their unique festivities. They line the streets in front of the cathedral, the city’s most famous landmark, and are among the most spectacular places to get your Christmas shopping done. The historic backdrop of the giant black cathedral looms over the stalls and elaborately decorated Christmas tree.

Nearby cities such as Bonn and Düsseldorf also offer traditional markets. Bonn Christmas Market, the city of Beethoven and HARIBO, is a great destination for those in search of food, shopping and culture whilst Düsseldorf offers seven unique themed markets dotted around the city.

Highlights of Bohemia – Prague and the Elbe & Vlatva Rivers – NEW RIVER CRUISE (CroisiEurope)

Gina Halden — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 17:30:00 +0000

Join us on a cruise sailing along the Elbe and Vlatva Rivers with the only river cruise company to cruise on these waters and navigate right to Bohemian Prague. The Czech Republic lies at the heart of Europe and the capital, Prague, the ancient capital of Bohemia, is situated on the banks of the Vlatva River. Discover idyllic landscapes along both the Vlatva and the Elbe rivers, stroll around the cities of Prague and Dresden and see the magical castles of Bohemia, symbols of the nobility and aristocracy, housing many surprising works of art.

Our ship is operated by one of the leading river cruise companies ‘CroisiEurope’ who operate a 50+ fleet of river and canal vessels with a minimum 4* standard of comfort, facilities and catering.

The Alsace, Heart of Switzerland and the Swiss Glacier Express (CroisiEurope) – NEW RIVER CRUISE

Gina Halden — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:26:53 +0000

The countries of France, Germany and Switzerland will be explored on this new cruise and will start and finish in the French city of Strasbourg. Explore the spectacular region of the Alsace, cruise south along the Rhine river into Germany and the picturesque little town of Breisach in the Black Forest and onto Basel in Switzerland before making the return journey. There will be some ‘INCLUDED’ excursions to the stunning Alsatian town of Colmar, a visit to the National Automobile Museum in Mulhouse and an incredible journey on the ‘slowest express train in the world’ – the Glacier Express in Switzerland.

Our ship is operated by one of the leading river cruise companies ‘CroisiEurope’ who operate a 50+ fleet of river and canal vessels with a minimum 4* standard of comfort, facilities and catering.

Three Rivers Explorer (CroisiEurope) – NEW GERMAN RIVER CRUISE

Gina Halden — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 09:58:53 +0000

This cruise will start and finish in the French city of Strasbourg from where you will see spectacular vine-clad slopes, ancient castles, picturesque towns and villages and unmissable cities which will combine to offer memorable experiences along three of Germany’s main rivers – the Rhine, the Moselle and the Main.

Highlights of the cruise offer optional excursions to Frankfurt (Main), Cochem (Moselle), Koblenz (Moselle & Rhine) and Rüdesheim (Rhine).

Our ship is operated by one of the leading river cruise companies ‘CroisiEurope’ who operate a 50+ fleet of river and canal vessels with a minimum 4* standard of comfort, facilities and catering.

Black Forest Chrysanthemums – Highly recommended – Based on Lake Titisee

Gina Halden — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 11:04:43 +0000

The Chrysanthemum Festival in Lahr: a vibrant display of autumnal shades in the heart of the Black Forest.

Celebrate the arrival of autumn with a festival of intense oranges, yellows and reds! Decorated with more than 10,000 chrysanthemum, worked into fascinating and creative arrangements, the picturesque German village becomes a vibrant sea of colour.

Established in 1997, the annual Chrysanthemum Festival in Lahr is continually growing in popularity. Discover the pretty historic village and marvel at the thousands of blooms and beautiful flower arrangements decorating houses, cars and flowerbeds alike. See beautiful flower archways and huge structures on floats. During the festival, there is also a programme of events running in the town which you could stop to enjoy. The event normally takes place for 2 weeks at the end of October/early November each year.

Additionally, experience more of the beautiful Black Forest region! Discover its spruce and fir covered mountains, gentle valleys and spectacular gorges carved by the River Rhine. Also see waterfalls, timber farmhouses, extravagant traditional costumes, hot spas and cuckoo clocks.

Berlin, Potsdam and Palaces

Gina Halden — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 13:47:25 +0000

Considered to be one of Europe’s most important and exciting cities, Berlin has an endless amount to offer. The German capital is home to some of Europe’s most beautiful palaces and gardens. Explore the decadence of the past at the remarkable former summer residence of Frederick the Great – Schloss Sanssouci in nearby Potsdam. With its bright facade and magnificent tiered gardens, this palace is sure to impress. The glorious Baroque Charlottenburg Palace, the largest in the city, also offers a glimpse into the city’s royal past.

The city has a diverse and exciting appeal due to its lack of a traditional centre. As a result pockets of attractions are dotted all over the city. Key Berlin landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, Bundestag, Berlin Cathedral and the iconic Alexanderplatz TV tower are amongst the most visited attractions and the city’s recent divisions can be experienced physically at the East Side Gallery, Checkpoint Charlie and at more faithfully preserved segments of the Berlin wall along Bernauer Strasse. The DDR and Stasi museums meanwhile provide a fascinating and interactive insight into life in a divided Germany. The Holocaust Memorial and Museum remain solemn and poignant reminders of the horrors of the 20th century.

Aachen, Monschau and the Ahr Valley – NEW TOUR

Gina Halden — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 12:21:48 +0000

This region boasts some fine examples of medieval architecture, including the superb Cathedral and Town Hall in Aachen. Aachen is situated directly on the border with Belgium and the Netherlands and is Germany’s most westerly city. Walk the cobbled streets of Monschau and drive past the vineyard dotted slopes of the Ahr Valley, renowned for its spicy red wine. The Ahr River meanders through the bizarre rocky landscape with sudden twists and turns, past vineyards clinging to the barren stone.

Romantic Rhine and Moselle Valleys

Gina Halden — Sun, 10 Mar 2024 15:10:29 +0000

The Rhine and Moselle Valleys have long been a favourite with visitors from the UK. Spectacular scenery, vine-clad slopes, ancient castles, picturesque towns and villages combine to offer memorable experiences.

This tour is based in Boppard, located on the banks of the Rhine. The town has half-timbered houses, churches that require a closer inspection, narrow alleyways and many Roman and medieval remains. There’s also a fine riverside promenade, ideal for a gentle stroll, or sitting and watching the many boats passing by.

Fairytale Black Forest, Cuckoo Clocks and Gâteau!

Gina Halden — Sat, 02 Mar 2024 12:07:37 +0000

The Black Forest ‘Schwarzwald‘ is a mountainous region in southwest Germany, bordering France and Switzerland. Renowned for its spruce and fir covered mountains, gentle valleys, spectacular gorges carved by the River Rhine and picturesque villages it is a truly ‘fairytale’ region. It is also famous for its extravagant traditional costumes, cuckoo clocks and, not forgetting, scrumptious Black Forest Gâteau! Our hotel for this tour boasts the stunning backdrop of picturesque Lake Titisee and is highly recommended.

Munich and the Fairytale Castles of Bavaria

Gina Halden — Thu, 03 Mar 2022 10:48:29 +0000

From story book castles and snow-capped mountains to crystal clear lakes, medieval towns and villages, Bavaria offers a veritable treasure trove of wonderful and memorable experiences.

The castles of King Ludwig II are some of the highlights of this tour and Linderhof Palace is especially wonderful. Although small, it was the only palace which was fully completed and the opulent rooms are exquisitely furnished. Furthermore, you also have the chance to visit the Mad King Ludwig’s most famous castle – Neuschwanstein, one of the most photographed castles in the world.

Spend a day exploring Bavaria’s capital, Munich. Known for its beer and hearty cuisine, the city is also bursting with history. Explore the city’s past in its wonderful old churches and traditional beer halls. From the divine English garden to the BMW Museum, there’s something for everyone.

Wander the medieval streets and see wonderful woodcarvings on the buildings in Oberammergau, home of the world famous ‘Passion Play’ and enjoy some peace and tranquility in the Benedictine Monastery at Ettal.

Hamburg & Lübeck – Northern Germany and the Baltic Coast

Gina Halden — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 15:10:29 +0000

Northern Germany doesn’t just offer a maritime experience: enjoy the region’s beaches with their fine, pale white sand, medieval towns, spa resorts and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The land along the coast is lovely and green and the coastal scenery is dominated by sheer cliffs and steep rock faces. Hamburg, Germany’s greenest city, has many cultural gems to be uncovered.

You will have plenty of time to do some sightseeing in Hamburg and explore various parts of this diverse and picturesque city. Take a stroll around the port and fish market area, see the historic old town with the famous Chile House and the districts of St. Pauli and the Reeperbahn. The gothic artichecture in inner Alster through the locks of the city hall out on to the River Elbe have been influential in Hamburg’s development. Hamburg has a great deal to offer, and you will be able to find something that suits everyone!

The charming and historical city of Lübeck with its medieval passages and courtyards carry all the hallmarks of her Hanseatic past and fully deserves its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy looking at the seven towers and the iconic Holsten Gate and sample some of Lübeck’s famous marzipan or ‘white gold’. If you are particularly interested in marzipan, then you can choose to visit the Niederegger Marzipan Salon for a demonstration. Also, you can choose to take a drive to the chic and stunning coastal resort of Travemünde overlooking the Baltic Sea.

Düsseldorf Christmas Markets

Gina Halden — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 12:37:57 +0000

Düsseldorf in the run-up to Christmas – the air is filled with the scent of roasted almonds and hot mulled wine. Many visitors have been coming to Düsseldorf for years to buy gifts for their loved ones and visit the spectacular Christmas markets. The splendid Christmas world is far more than just a Christmas market. There are a line-up of markets, all with different themes so when you take a stroll through the markets you will be astonished again and again by the imaginative designs of the huts and the huge variety of goods on offer. As well as this, Königsallee is world-famous as a luxury-shopping street. The department stores in Schadowstrasse and the Altstadt (Old Town) boutiques are just a stone’s throw away from the markets making it ideal to do some Christmas shopping whilst on holiday.

Düsseldorf Christmas Markets

In Düsseldorf the markets are located all over town and each one is unique and worth exploring. Below you will find some information about each one and their location…

We would definitely start by discovering the markets of Altstadt (Old Town). The Christmas Market huts at the Altstadt Market are modelled on Düsseldorf’s old burgher houses. Between the Altstadt (Old Town) and Königsallee on Heinrich-Heine-Platz, the Engelchen Market has a broad spectrum of delicious culinary treats – from the traditional to the avant-garde – so dig in and try some.

The Märchen (Fairytale) Market is located between Schadowstraße and Königsallee. The Märchen Market is the ideal place to explore the enchanting world of German fairy tales. 15,000 LEDs bathe the square in a glowing, magical light – creating a fairy-tale world for all ages. The wooden silhouettes on the huts were produced from illustrations specially created by an artist.

Right in front of the Düsseldorf Rathaus (city hall), you will find the Handwerker Market on Marktplatz, at the foot of the equestrian statue of Jan Wellem, with its huts and kiosks whose colours and designs are modelled on those of the brick Renaissance-style Rathaus (city hall).

The Schadow Market is on one of Düsseldorf’s leading shopping streets, very close to the Schauspielhaus theatre and you’ll find virtually everything there, and something for every budget. As you walk past the festively decorated huts, you will also find lots of other shops that will fulfil just about every wish.

The Kö-Bogen Market has moved and, from 2021, will dazzle visitors on Gustaf-Gründgens-Platz. This area has changed more than any part of Düsseldorf in recent years. Known as Kö-Bogen II, it is a truly unique sight. This building not only improves the air quality in Düsseldorf, but also houses businesses, restaurants and cafés and it is Europe’s biggest greened façade. It has quickly become one of the city’s most photographed spots.

The Sternchen (Little Star) Markt is slightly hidden away in the inner courtyard of Wilhelm Marx House, between Heinrich-Heine-Platz and Kasernenstraße. This little market is a world of its own, far removed from the busy shopping streets.  The dramatic lighting design, the snow-covered huts, and the countless crystals and glittering stars gives this area a distinctive winter feel.

Black Forest Chrysanthemums – Highly recommended!

Gina Halden — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 13:01:29 +0000

The Chrysanthemum Festival in Lahr: a vibrant display of autumnal shades in the heart of the Black Forest.

A Tale of European History – Germany and Poland

Gina Halden — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 10:00:25 +0000

Take your group on a winding tour through Berlin and Poznan to Gdansk. The Polish city of Gdansk has a fascinating history – passed from Prussia to Poland and occupied by both Nazis and Soviets, the echoes of its history reverberate through the charming city facades. Still emerging as an undiscovered Baltic Sea gem, Gdansk is often overlooked for the grandeur of Krakow or Warsaw, however, it is a city with so much to offer.

Your first stop is the wonderful capital city of Berlin. A city in need of no introduction. A city of life, culture, history and innovation, Berlin is always worthy of your time. Afterwards, head towards the Polish city of Poznan, a well-off city that will amaze you with its traditions dating back to the very beginning of Poland’s history. With a mix of modern and classic architecture and outstanding gastronomy. Poznan is the perfect destination for a quick stop off or a weekend break.

Berlin

Writing about Berlin – like the city itself – is a contradiction. It is both dream and nightmare – unending inspiration to write on and never enough words to cover it. From the ashes of division and the clutches of evil, Berlin has risen from Reich to ruin to remarkable to be one of the world’s most uniquely impressive cities.

Berlin has a unique style – outfits that would raise eyebrows in evem the most avant-garde of cities pass by practically unnoticed on the city’s U-Bahn. This is echoed across the city’s past and present – events and landmarks that would put other cities on the map co-exist in Berlin as part of the furniture.

Perhaps what is most incredible about Berlin is not the political artistry of the East Side Gallery, the brutalist architecture of Alexanderplatz TV Tower or the stately charm of Charlottenburg Schloss but just how normal the city is in spite of its many reasons to boast. Grab yourself some Vietnamese food, a Döner or a Currywurst and lean into Berlin, a city where everyone is home.

Gdansk

The history of Gdansk ensures that it is no typical Polish city. Passed between the Slavic Poles and Teutonic Prussians for centuries, Gdansk (or Danzig if you’re Prussian) was given to Poland after Germany’s defeat in WW1 only for further occupations under the Nazis and Soviets to clutch the city.

Air raids during the WW2 levelled much of the city. However, the post-war rebuild sought not to replace each brick but to instead scrub the city of Germanic influence, replacing traditional German architecture with Flemish, Dutch, French and Italian styles. The result is a city of eclecticism.

The grand facades lining the 500-metres of the Royal Way tell of the city’s past grandeur while the European Solidarity Centre showcases the harsher realities of Poland’s fight for independence and subsequent shipyard strikes.

Malbork Castle & Elbag Canal

Set on the banks of the slow-moving River Nogat, Malbork Castle dates back to the Teutonic Knights of the 13^th century, acting as their headquarters for around 150 years. As the centuries passed, Malbork has grown, adding extra sections split apart by moats and towers until its lands stretched across 20-hectares.

Between Gdańsk and Malbork lies the 19^th Century Elblag Canal, an amazing feat of world-class hydro-technology. It is both a tourist attraction and a technical marvel. Elbląg Canal is 83.3 km in length, more than half of which is an artificial waterway.

Poznan

As mentioned, Poznan is known as a well-off city in Poland and this is clear to see when taking in the sights of the city. Mieszko I, Poland’s first prince took a shining to this city and built the biggest castle in the country standing proudly since the 10th Century. You will be sure to find some hidden gems all over Poznan, but be sure not to miss the bustling Old Town and see Market Square and the Town Hall.

As well as this, the people of Poznan are known for their sweet tooth and their sweetest symbol is the St. Martin’s Croissant, a white poppy-seed filling traditionally prepared in many patisseries across Poznan are a Protected Geographical Indication of the European Union and is only available from designated producers, making it a rare gem and a must try when visiting Poznan.

Be sure not to miss the delights of Western and Northern Poland on this fantastic trip.

Rüdesheim, Four Rivers and a Castle

Gina Halden — Thu, 18 Feb 2021 15:46:01 +0000

Picturesque villages and fairytale castles nestle between vineyards in the Rhine Valley, one of Germany’s most famous regions. On this delightful tour, there is the opportunity to experience spectacular scenery with a cruises on the Rhine, Moselle, Main and Neckar.

While exploring this beloved area, visits are also made to Rüdesheim, Heidelberg, Koblenz, Frankfurt and Cochem.

Our base for this tour is either the wonderful little town of Assmanhausen or nearby Rüdesheim which has a beautiful town full of old-world charm, it has an enticing core. Drosselgasse beckons – a narrow cobbled lane bursting with vivacious restaurants, bars and cafes. Furthermore, this is a wonderful place to experience spectacular scenery.

A highlight for many will be the visit to Heidelberg. This beautiful old town is famous for its half ruined castle, which presides over the many bridges and narrow streets. Others will delight in tasting the wines produced locally in this renowned wine region. Drift along rivers between beautiful towns and past the Loreley statue.

Secrets of Saxony

Gina Halden — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 11:50:29 +0000

Once one of Germany’s most popular tourist destinations, Saxony all but disappeared from view during the years of communist rule. Today, nearly 30 years since German reunification, the region’s spectacular architecture, landscape and cultural heritage is once again attracting visitors from across the world.

Dresden; A City of Beauty Rebuilt

During this tour we explore Dresden, the 800-year-old capital of Saxony. The city’s skyline of spires, towers and domes is a glimpse into it’s rich cultural heritage. In 1491, Dresden suffered a devastating fire, but from the ashes, the city was built in a renaissance style, becoming a hotbed for the European elite for centuries to come. However, this was not the first time the city succumbed to a fiery destruction. Visiting Dresden today, it’s difficult to conceive of the utter destruction it suffered during the Second World War. Known as the ‘Dresden fire’, the allies bombing completely destroyed the city. Since then, classic Dresden buildings have been rebuilt and restored, retaining its reputation as the Florence on the Elbe.

Meissen; Home of Porcelain

From there, we also visit Meissen, a town famous for its manufacture of ceramics. The thousand year-old city of Meissen is not only known for it’s porcelain production, it is also famous for its medieval centre and vineyard landscape of the Elbe valley. The picturesque city on the Elbe River offers an abundant attractions, many of them touristic highlights of the region. While in Meissen, perhaps visit the beautiful Moritzburg Castle or enjoy a steam train journey.

An Art Lover’s Paradise; Leipzig

Another fantastic Saxon town is Leipzig, which fuses its history seamlessly into its modern vibe. Known as the City of Rivers, this is a spectacularly beautiful place. With a history going back almost 1,000 years, this Saxon metropolis has earned more than a few claims to fame – as a city of music, of commerce, of heroes, as the site of the Peaceful Revolution, as Little Paris, Athens on the River Pleisse, and the Venice of the North. A final highlight is a stark piece of history. Visit Colditz Castle, a Renaissance castle used by the Nazi’s as a prisoner of war camp in WWII.

Saxony offers a wide range of exciting attractions and is bursting with architectural gems.