7 DaysGermanycountry
Germany
Your 7-day travel guide
The ideal time for this itinerary is late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September). The weather is generally mild a...
Germany•7D•All
Germany, Germany
Duration:7 Days
Activities:21
Best for:All travelers
Castles, Clubs, and Alpine Adventures
Germany offers a dynamic mix of historic cities, legendary nightlife, and accessible outdoor adventures, making it perfect for a group of friends. This itinerary connects the country's cultural heart with its party capitals and natural playgrounds. You'll experience Berlin's raw energy, Munich's beer halls and mountain access, and Hamburg's maritime vibe and clubs. The route is designed for efficient travel by high-speed train, balancing daytime exploration with vibrant evenings. Expect a journey through medieval towns, urban art scenes, forest hikes, and nights that turn into mornings, all within a budget-conscious framework ideal for backpackers.
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1
Urban Exploration & Nightlife Introduction
Day 1 of your journey
The East Side Gallery is a 1.3 km long section of the Berlin Wall, now the world's largest open-air gallery. You'll see over 100 paintings by artists from around the world, including the famous 'Fraternal Kiss'. It's a powerful, free outdoor monument to freedom. The walk takes about an hour, and it's best visited in daylight to appreciate the art. The area along the Spree River is also great for casual strolls.
East Side Gallery
Why Visit
This is essential Berlin history presented in a visually striking, accessible way. It's completely free, making it perfect for backpackers, and the artwork provides incredible photo opportunities. The location along the river sets a reflective tone before the city's famous nightlife kicks in.
Start at the Ostbahnhof station end and walk towards Oberbaumbrücke. For a cheap lunch, head to the nearby Markthalle Neun in Kreuzberg, a historic market hall with street food (Address: Eisenbahnstraße 42/43).
2
Alternative Culture & Evening Social
Day 2 of your journey
3
Travel South & Bavarian Welcome
Day 3 of your journey
4
Alpine Adventure Day Trip
Day 4 of your journey
5
City Culture & Evening Party
Day 5 of your journey
6
Northern Port City & Harbor Nightlife
Day 6 of your journey
7
Farewell Harbor Views & Departure
Day 7 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Germany uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but always carry some cash, especially for smaller shops, bars, and markets.
Learn a few basic German phrases: 'Hallo' (Hello), 'Danke' (Thank you), 'Bitte' (Please/You're welcome), 'Entschuldigung' (Excuse me/Sorry). English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
Public transport (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, buses) is excellent in all major cities. Buy day passes (Tageskarte) for unlimited travel within zones; they are cost-effective for groups.
Tipping is customary but not excessive. Round up the bill to the nearest euro for small amounts, or add 5-10% for good service in restaurants. Just tell the server the total you want to pay.
Recycling (Mülltrennung) is taken seriously. Look for separate bins for paper (Papier), packaging (Gelber Sack/Grüner Punkt), glass (Glas), and general waste (Restmüll).
Sunday is a quiet day (Ruhetag). Most shops are closed, including supermarkets. Restaurants, museums, and attractions remain open, so plan accordingly.
For clubs in Berlin and Hamburg, door policies can be selective. Dress in understated, dark clothing, go in small groups, and be polite and patient in line.
Tap water (Leitungswasser) is safe to drink everywhere. You can ask for it in restaurants, though they may prefer you order bottled water.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time for this itinerary is late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September). The weather is generally mild and pleasant for city exploration and hiking, with longer daylight hours. Summer (July-August) is warm and popular, but can be crowded and more expensive. It's also the peak season for Alpine hiking. Winter (December-February) offers Christmas markets and skiing near Munich, but some outdoor activities like the Partnach Gorge hike are still possible (and icy). Some beer gardens and outdoor bars are seasonal, opening from April/May to September/October.
Local Insights & Tips
Germany is a country of distinct regional identities. Bavaria (Munich) has a strong traditional culture with Lederhosen, beer halls, and formal greetings like 'Grüß Gott'. Northern Germany (Hamburg) is more maritime, direct, and influenced by its port history. Berlin is famously open, alternative, and fast-paced. Punctuality is highly valued. When invited somewhere, arrive on time. In social settings, especially in the south, it's common to make eye contact and say 'Prost' (cheers) while clinking glasses. Sundays are for rest; noise is frowned upon. In cities, the 'Ampelmännchen' pedestrian traffic light figures are a beloved cultural quirk. Don't jaywalk, as locals generally wait for the green light.