Group tour operator for holidays to Berlin, Germany
Berlin Festival of Lights, Potsdam and Palaces – NEW TOUR
-
Berlin Festival of Lights
-
Mitte, Regierungsviertel, Brandenburger Tor, Pariser Platz ©visitBerlin Dagmar Schwelle, GNTB
-
Berlin Festival of Lights
-
Berlin Festival of Lights
-
Charlottenburg Palace, the largest and most important Hohenzollern residence in Berlin ©visitberlin, Photo Martin Gentischer
-
New palace in the park of Sanssouci ©DZT, Florian Trykowski, GNTB
-
Berlin Cathedral ©Francesco Carovillano, GNTB
Berlin has an endless amount to offer at any time of year, but every October, visitors have a chance to see the city in a whole new light — literally! For around 10 days, the Festival of Lights, historic and iconic buildings throughout the capital become a canvas for light installations by national and international artists. No need to wait for the German Christmas markets for a festive atmosphere and Glühwein; you can stroll through a sea of colourful lights with a mulled wine in hand in mid-October.
On this tour you’ll also be able to see 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, now a UNESCO World Heritage site 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.
Dates
06 October 2027
Suggested itinerary by coach
Day 1
Depart the UK
Drive to Dover and take the short sea ferry crossing over to Calais. Continue through France and into Belgium via Ghent and Antwerp and over the border into Holland towards the Eindhoven area for an overnight stop. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.
Day 2
Travel to Berlin
Depart after breakfast, continuing east through Holland and into Germany via Dortmund and Hanover, to Berlin for the next 4 nights. After check-in, relax and enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.
Day 3
Berlin at Leisure (Driver’s rest day)
Today is free to explore the city at your own pace. Why not explore Berlin’s famous sights and important buildings comfortably from the water on a cruise on the River Spree or visit one of the many museums on Museum Island, or for shopaholics, stroll along the famous Unter den Linden Boulevard or along the Ku’dam.
There is also the option to purchase a ‘Hop on – Hop off’ City tour bus ticket which will take you around the city – this can also be combined with a river cruise. Please ask for details as there are several ‘sightseeing’ options available.
The rest of the day and evening is at leisure for you to admire the Festival of Lightsm where many landmarks, historical sites, streets, squares, trendy districts and interesting places from Berlin’s recent history are staged with light. This annual event has a different theme each year which was ‘Colours of Love’ in 2026.
**The 2027 Festival of Lights is expected to take place 07-16 October 2027 although this is subject to confirmation**
Day 4
Panoramic City Tour and Charlottenburg Palace
Meet up with a local guide for a city tour by coach. Discover the main sights such as the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, the Bundestag, Potsdamer Platz, the Reichstag and much more.
After the tour there will be time for some lunch (not included) before heading to Charlottenburg Palace for a visit and tour. It is Berlin’s largest and most beautiful palace and a shining example of Baroque architecture which was badly damaged during the Second World War, but restoration works have restored it to its former glory. Explore the staterooms of the New Wing and the rococo ballroom known as the Golden Gallery. The Silver Vault includes a stunning tableware of gold, silver, glass and porcelain. The palace’s gardens are an idyllic oasis, featuring an orangery, mausoleum, the Belvedere tea house and the Neuer Pavilion.
The rest of the day and evening is at leisure.
Day 5
Potsdam and Sanssouci Palace
Today we delve into Berlin’s glamorous past. Accompanied by a local guide, drive to Potsdam and enjoy a tour of the city which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where many palaces and gardens were built by Prussia’s Royal Family.
After the tour there will be some free time to get some lunch before a visit is made to one of the most famous palaces – Schloss Sanssouci – the former summer residence of Frederick the Great. Featuring originally preserved 18th Century interior decoration including the Marble Hall and picture gallery together with stunning tiered gardens, this is a spectacular palace. Frederick’s tomb is located on the upper terrace of the vineyards.
Return to Berlin for an evening at leisure.
Day 6
Depart Berlin
After breakfast, bid ‘Auf Wiedersehen’ to Berlin as you retrace your steps across Germany and into Holland, stopping overnight near Eindhoven. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.
Day 7
Return to the UK
Continue the return journey through Holland and Belgium and into France to the port of Calais or Dunkerque for the ferry to Dover and home.
Suggested hotel
Leonardo Royal Berlin Alexanderplatz, Berlin ****
Located in the heart of Berlin City West. 500 en-suite bedrooms of varying categories. Decorated in warm colour schemes, every room at the Hotel Berlin, Berlin comes equipped with air conditioning and a fridge. There is also a bar and restaurant serving a very good breakfast. Leisure facilities at the Hotel Berlin, Berlin include a modern gym, Finnish sauna and a sanarium. Free on-street coach parking nearby.
Greatdays can also offer a selection of alternative, good quality hotels in Berlin.
TO UPDATE
| Departure date | 7 days / 6 nights | Single supplement |
| 06 October 2027 | From £669.00 per person (based on twin/double occupancy) | From £349.00 per person |
