9 days
Go on a historical journey through Germany’s storybook regions, from the picturesque Rhine Valley to the forests and mountains of Bavaria. Take in beautiful scenery while traveling along the famous Romantic Road. Gain insight into the region’s heritage with visits to multiple cities that are rich in history and folklore. Go on tours of iconic landmarks and sites, such as the Heidelberg Castle, Gutenberg Museum, Linderhof Palace and Asam Church. Explore the popular Neuschwanstein Castle, known for its fairy-tale setting, grand structures and interior decorations. Throughout the trip, students are encouraged to develop a deeper understanding of art and architecture from the medieval and Renaissance periods.
Participate in experiential learning activities where history and cultural traditions come to life. In Heidelberg, students walk in the footsteps of many great philosophers on an inspirational stroll that overlooks the city and the Neckar river. Spend an evening listening to Rothenburg legends while following a medieval Nightwatchman on his route through the city. With visits to St. Jakobskirche, the Pilgrimage Church of Wies and Alte Pinakothek, discover renowned masterpieces and collections of art. Venture into the world of science and technology at the Deutsches Museum, where students learn from demonstrations and interactive exhibits.
Depart from home and fly overnight to Frankfurt.
On arrival in Frankfurt, meet up with the Tour Director and travel to Rüdesheim am Rhein. Go on a walking tour of the city, seeing the remains of three castles, historic mansions and half-timbered houses. Stroll along the Drosselgasse, a famous shopping street in the heart of Rüdesheim am Rhein. Time permitting, take a cable car to the Niederwald Monument for panoramic views of the Rhine Valley.
Go on a Rhine River bus tour for sightseeing of the German countryside and a visit to Marksburg Castle, a well-preserved 12th century fortress. Journey to Mainz, the capital of Rhineland-Palatinate, and explore the city, starting in Old Town and stopping to visit the Mainz Cathedral. While in Mainz, spend time at the Gutenberg Museum to learn about the history of printing and view two original Gutenberg Bibles.
In the morning, transfer to Worms and see the Worms Cathedral to admire the Romanesque architecture. Enjoy free time in Worms before continuing to the beautiful town of Heidelberg. At the Heidelberg Castle, discover the castle’s Gothic-Renaissance architecture and its extensive history as a landmark of Heidelberg. Experience the castle’s significant sites, such as the Friedrich Building, the Barrel Building and the Pharmacy Museum. Afterwards, take a walk along the Philosophenweg, where students imagine themselves as scholars deep in thought and take in views of Heidelberg.
Depart from Rüdesheim am Rhein and travel along the Romantic Road to Rothenburg. Upon arrival, go on a walking tour around the medieval city walls. See the iconic town hall, known for its Gothic-Renaissance architecture, and ascend to the top of the town hall tower for a view over the city. At the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum, learn about over a thousand years of legal history and explore the museum’s collection of artifacts. Stroll down the Herrngasse and visit the St. Jakobskirche, where students view the famous 15th-century Holy Blood Altarpiece. In the evening, travel back in time and embark on a Nightwatchman Tour, following the town’s Nightwatchman on his walk through the historic city.
Begin the journey to Munich. En route, stop to visit the Neuschwanstein Castle and tour the Throne Hall. Step into the stories around this fairy-tale castle among the idyllic scenery. Continue to the Pilgrimage Church of Wies, a World Heritage Site that features well-preserved examples of Rococo art. After, spend time at Linderhof Palace, exploring the extravagant palace rooms, the Linderhof Park and the Venus Grotto. Arrive in Munich for the evening.
Take a walking tour of Munich’s Old Town, starting at the Karlstor and then strolling down Neuhauser Street to see all the popular shops and restaurants. Stop to see the Frauenkirche, the landmark church with twin towers that shape the Munich skyline. Continue to the Marienplatz, the historic central square in Munich’s city centre, and experience the clock chimes at the New Town Hall. Students also have the opportunity to climb to the top of the New Town Hall’s tower for a view of the city center. End the tour at Asam Church to admire the ornate Baroque architecture and interior. Discover renowned masterpiece and extensive art collections at the Alte Pinakothek.
Participate in demonstrations about the history of science and technology at the Deutsches Museum. At the BMW Museum, dive into the history of the automobile while viewing displays of BMW’s most important automobiles, motorcycles and engines. Go on a guided tour of Olympiapark, where students ascend to the observation platform of the Olympic Tower for sweeping views of the complex. After, take a walk down Maximilianstrasse, Munich’s most exclusive avenue. After dinner, attend a traditional Bavarian music and dance show.
Depart from Munich and travel home.
On this educational journey, students are immersed in the history and cultural experiences of Germany’s Rhine Valley and Bavaria. Experience three significant cities in the region and take in the beautiful scenery of the German countryside. Come away with increased knowledge about Germany’s development as a country throughout the centuries. Gain insight into the development of art and architecture throughout the centuries with visits to castles, churches and other historical sites. While visiting the Gutenberg Museum and the Deutsches Museum, learn about the history of printing, science and technology. With a curated curriculum for educators to apply with the program, students are empowered to put their learning into practice before, during and after the trip.
Quality, safe hotels with twin or triple occupancy corresponding to the destination.
All transportation is provided throughout the program.
Airfare covers round-trip flights from major airports.
Two meals are provided daily, breakfast and dinner, featuring local cuisine.
Interactive learning experiences designed to expand educational and career goals.
Scheduled activities, experiences and guided tours are all included.
Customized experiences developed by travel experts to promote learning and engagement.
Full-time Tour Directors are on site for the duration of the trip, for an all-inclusive experience.
Tips for bus drivers, guides, Tour Directors and meals.
International travel insurance is provided for protection in case of accidents, illness, flight interruptions or baggage loss.
Advanced student security software that integrates geofencing, logistics, communication and more optimized safety features.
Dedicated 24/7 staff availability, supporting students every step of the way.
