Frankfurt

Castle & Palace Tours

Enjoy a morning tour to the romantic city of Heidelberg situated on the River Neckar, one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. It's simply magical. Visit the world-famous ruins of Heidelberg Castle, a stunning combination of architectural styles stretching from the Gothic period to the Renaissance. Stroll through the expansive courtyard and admire the views from the imposing terrace. Marvel at one of the largest wine barrels in the world. You then wander through the medieval town center. Here you will see the Old Bridge, the Karlstor, and the Church of the Holy Spirit. Admire the Haus zum Ritter (Knight's house) with its magnificent Renaissance façade and discover the old narrow lanes with their half-timbered houses. Heidelberg is also home to Germany’s oldest university and is full of interesting stories. And if you still have some time to spare, you can philosophize on Philophenweg (Philosophers' Way) or discover the excellent regional wines – the two go together quite nicely.

Two of southern Germany's most charming communities offer a look at the country's medieval charm. You'll see the romantic city of Heidelberg and the historic town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Your journey begins with a morning tour to Heidelberg. Tour the famous Heidelberg Castle for a look at the long courtyard, the mighty terrace, and one of the largest wine barrels in the world, and then take a walk in the city's medieval center to marvel at the Old Bridge, Karl's Gate, the Church of the Holy Spirit, and the House of the Knights, as well as the oldest university in Germany. Next, follow the Romantic Road into the uplands of Bavaria for a visit to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the best-preserved medieval town in Germany. High above the Tauber River valley, the picturesque old lanes and the castle garden give you a look at the elegance of another era. See the wood-carved altar of St. Jakobs Church and marvel at half-timbered houses, the city gates, and the mighty Renaissance Town Hall. In the afternoon, take some leisure time to explore the town on your own. Look for the local delicacy called a "Schneeball," a fried dough ball with many different toppings before you meet your group for your journey back to Frankfurt.

Visit the perfectly-preserved and beautifully-located castle, which has been inhabited by the same family since its construction. Admire the unparalleled architecture and the original furnishing dating back over 8 centuries. Tour rooms and halls that contain hundreds of years' worth of cultural history. Admire the festive knight's hall, the medieval kitchen, exquisite furniture, wall hangings and paintings as well as fascinating weaponry and armor. The treasury in the cellar vaults houses a precious art collection with over 500 exceptional pieces. Stop in a restaurant right on the banks of the river in the enchanting Rhine Valley on the way back and enjoy a delicious dinner before returning to Frankfurt.

Journey into the mountains of the Swabian Alps to visit one of the most remarkable fortresses in Germany. This day trip takes you through the charming woodland in the south of Germany, on a journey filled with history and stories from the height of the House of Hohenzollern. Depart Frankfurt for the drive south into the forests of Baden-Wurttemberg. Get an outstanding look at the isolated peak of Hohenzollern as the mountain rises over the countryside, crowned by the majestic 19th-century castle that stands atop its peak.  As you step onto the castle grounds, your guide will explain how an earlier fortress built on this mountain lent its name to the family dynasty that would rise to rule the kingdom of Prussia and become emperors of Germany. Reflect on 1,000 years of heritage, from Friedrich I to Wilhelm II, as you explore the mighty ramparts, courtyard, and towers. Take spectacular photographs of the surrounding lands. Next, follow your guide into the grand halls and exquisitely furnished rooms, where old paintings, porcelain, and works of gold and silver rest among artifacts from the Hohenzollern dynasty. Take a look at a uniform that belonged to Frederick the Great and the crown of Kaiser Wilhelm II before you depart for your journey back to Frankfurt.

Embark on a day trip from Frankfurt along the Romantic Road, Germany's oldest and most loved holiday route. Travel through Würzburg into the Tauber Valley to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the epitome of German romanticism. Depart Frankfurt in the morning, start the drive through the Spessart to Würzburg. Passing the university town, the Tauber Valley will be reached. Bad Mergentheim and Markelsheim are located where three major wine-growing regions come together. Drive to the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the official starting point of the Romantic Road. Crossing the River Main, enjoy views of the Marienberg Fortress and the Käppele, the Chapel of Grace. Visit the city of Weikersheim next, where the Renaissance castle and the Baroque garden can be visited. See the historic market square, then pass Röttingen, Germany’s first European town, and Creglingen. Rothenburg ob der Tauber will be reached at lunch time. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a must when traveling in Europe. Famous sights are the medieval town wall, the historical marketplace, the town hall, the Gothic Parish Church of St. Jakob, and the Plönlein, an area featuring a colorful timber-frame house. The tour ends round-trip back in Frankfurt.

Get to know two of the most beautiful and historic cities in Germany during a day of sightseeing filled with medieval grandeur. With a look at the imposing ruins of Heidelberg Castle and the seat of Holy Roman Emperors in Nuremberg, you will get a great overview of the region's colorful past. After you meet your guide, set out for a visit to the picturesque city of Heidelberg along the River Neckar. Tour the famous Heidelberg Castle and admire the long courtyard, the mighty terrace, and one of the largest wine barrels in the world. Then, take a walk in the city's medieval town center to marvel at the Old Bridge, Karl's Gate, the Church of the Holy Spirit, and the House of the Knights, as well as the oldest university in Germany. In the afternoon, you cross into Bavaria for a visit to the storied city of Nuremberg. Look up at the mighty Imperial Castle, or Kaiserburg, which is one of the grandest medieval fortifications in Europe. Later, you can check out the Old City Hall, and the site of the famous Christkindl's market. Start your return journey after a look at the towering Gothic facades of the St. Lorenz Church and the Frauenkirche.

The romantic old city of Heidelberg and the famed spa town of Baden-Baden form the setting for this day trip across southeastern Germany. See the remains of a famous Renaissance castle, explore the enchanting woodland of the Black Forest, and get a firsthand look at the region's iconic sights. Your day starts with a ride south to Heidelberg, a picturesque city on the river Neckar. Tour the famous Heidelberg Castle for a look at the long courtyard, the mighty terrace, and one of the largest wine barrels in the world. Then, take a walk in the city's medieval town center to marvel at the Old Bridge, Karl's Gate, the Church of the Holy Spirit, and the House of the Knights, as well as the oldest university in Germany. In the afternoon, your tour continues to Baden-Baden, one of Europe's most beautiful health resorts and best-preserved spas. When you arrive, pay a visit to the elegant Kurhaus, where you can check out the immaculate gardens and parks around the stylish casino. Next, take a tour through the enchanting coniferous woods of the Black Forest and visit the Mummelsee, a glacial lake among the mountains that was left behind by the last Ice Age. Take some free time to relax amid this beautiful scenery and check out the locally crafted cuckoo clocks, which carry on a tradition that began here in the woods, before you set out for the return trip north to Frankfurt.

Embark on a day trip from Frankfurt along the "Romantic Road" to Rothenburg on der Tauber. Taste some regional wines during the journey, and see the main sights of the charming city of Rothenburg with your guide. Depart from in front of Frankfurt's main train station in the morning and travel through the Tauber Valley, the wine-growing region of Germany's oldest holiday route. Pass small villages such as Weikersheim and catch a glimpse of its magnificent Renaissance palace and its beautiful park. On the way from Frankfurt to Rothenburg make a stop to taste some regional wines including sparkling wine and dry white wine. Make a brief photo stop in the city of Würzburg and see the Prince Bishop's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrive at Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which is considered one of Germany`s most romantic towns, and a medieval architectural jewel. See the main sights of the town with your guide, such as the town wall with its numerous towery and gates. Stroll around the Market Place with its magnificent Town Hall and many half-timbered houses. Admire the exterior of the Church of St. Jakob and the "Plönlein." You will also have time for lunch, reserved at a restaurant at your own expense. Pay a visit to The German Christmas Museum, which highlights festive traditions and history in Germany. Or, you may visit the Medieval Crime Museum with its historical collection of objects relating to medieval law. On the return journey to Frankfurt am Main, stop for a glass of Tauberschwarz red wine. Finally, be returned to central Frankfurt in the evening.

Go on a private tour of Johannisburg Castle, which overlooks the Main River in Aschaffenburg. Follow your guide through the four-winged complex and learn all about the history of one of the most important Renaissance buildings in Germany. Relax knowing hotel pickup and drop-off is included. Begin your tour by getting picked up from your accommodation in Frankfurt and enjoy a comfortable ride to Johannisburg Castle. Once you arrive, take a look at this early 17th century castle from the outside and listen as your guide explains all about the architecture of the building. Enter the castle and visit a branch of the National Gallery. See paintings by Lucas the Elder, as well as the world’s largest collection of architectural models made from cork. Pieces include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the imperial triumphal arches, the Porta Maggiore and the Pyramid of Cestius. Marvel at the castle chapel with its Renaissance altarpiece, pulpit and portal sculptures by Hans Juncker. Watch the sculptures be brought to life with a light-sound installation. See the Staircase Hall, Tower room, and Ridinger Hall. Once you have finished the tour, get driven back to Frankfurt.

Take a walk through the charming streets of Frankfurt's Old Town to some of the city's most important churches. Uncover Germany's unique history and culture through their incredible architecture and hidden artistic gems. Meet your guide at the Römerberg market square, lined with characteristic timber houses and iconic 15th-century town hall. Here, you'll visit the small, Gothic-style Old St Nicholas Church with its authentic medieval religious ornaments, grand organ, and stained-glass windows. Next, you'll enter the famous St Paul’s Church, where you'll find a fascinating exhibition showcasing the events leading up to Germany's parliament formation in 1848. Your guide will explain the political significance of this place, including the Unity Monument (Einheitsdenkmal) just outside. At St Catherine's, you'll enjoy a cultural fix while admiring the beautifully restored Baroque-style exterior, the high wooden ceiling inside, and gallery of late-Gothic artworks. The church's 17 stained glass windows, created by famous artist Charles Crodel, make for stunning social media photos. Stroll through the Old Town, following the so-called “Coronation Route” to the Frankfurt Cathedral. Learn about the church's important role in Frankfurt's history as the religious counterpart to the royal palace. Enjoy soaring views of the city from the cathedral's tower. The famous Mainkai road will lead you across the Main River over the iconic Iron Footbridge, where you can attach a padlock if you're feeling romantic. Your guided tour will end at the Dreikönigskirche, also known as the Church of the Three Kings. This late 19th-century Protestant church, with its dramatic neo-Gothic architecture, survived two world wars and is an important landmark over the Main River.