Germany: Vibrant Cities and Fairytale Castles

Arrive in Berlin, the capital of Germany. Like perhaps no other city in modern history, 20th-century Berlin was a cauldron of socio-political change, from the lively cabarets of the Weimar Republic and monstrous totalitarianism of the Third Reich that followed, to the split-identity aftermath of World War II — a city in ruin ruled by two former enemies — to the rise toward democracy for all, marked by the fall of the Berlin Wall. Today, Berlin is rebuilt, robust and a European center for culture, gastronomy and the arts that aspires to rival Paris. Settle into your hotel. This evening, gather for cocktails followed by a welcome dinner.

Discover historic Berlin, starting with a visit to the Reichstag Building, viewing panoramas of the city from its large glass dome. Stroll through Potsdamer Platz and stop at Checkpoint Charlie, a former border crossing between East and West Berlin. Also visit the Topography of Terror, a museum that stands over land once occupied by the SS and the Gestapo, and challenges visitors to confront the legacy of the Nazis. Break for lunch, and then enjoy your afternoon at leisure. Gather this evening for dinner.

Today, meet a local artist to learn about the history of the Berlin Wall at the iconic East Side Gallery, a series of murals painted on the longest section of wall still standing. Continue to a privately guided tour of the Stasi Museum to discover how East Germany's secret police exerted control over every aspect of society. Round out your experience with a complimentary pass to a range of other museums.

The town of Meissen is synonymous with the exquisite porcelain tableware and figurines made here. Delve into this world of artisanal treasures on a guided visit to the manufacturer's workshop that includes lunch on their famous porcelain. Afterward, drive to Proschwitz Castle for a guided walk of this medieval manor, exclusively opened for A&K guests, and savor a wine tasting in the castle's vineyards. Continue to Dresden, where you check in to your hotel. Settle in and then enjoy a relaxing drink while gazing out over the city, followed by dinner.

Dresden was long one of Europe’s great bastions of art, culture and architecture. Leveled by Allied bombing during World War II, it has returned from the ashes to reclaim its former elegance. Uncover the splendor of Dresden on a guided walk, starting with the Zwinger Complex, a historic Baroque-style palace built in 1728 for the Dresden Court. Visit the Dresden Frauenkirche, and then explore the New Green Vault, a museum in the Dresden Castle containing Europe's largest treasure collection. Eat lunch at the renowned Pfunds Dairy, followed by time at leisure to explore the city your way.

Depart for Munich, stopping en route in Leipzig for a guided walk revealing St. Thomas's Church, where the legendary composer Johann Sebastian Bach worked as music director for 27 years. You then have some free time to explore this musical city that was also once home to Felix Mendelssohn, before boarding a high-speed train to Munich. Settle into your luxury hotel with time to relax before dinner.

The capital of Bavaria, Munich brings to mind Germany at its most festive and fun-loving, with hardy cuisine accompanied by some of the world’s best beer. This morning, set out on a walking excursion to see why the city is a global center of art, culture and architecture. Stroll through Marienplatz in the heart of Munich's Old Town and watch the famous Rathhaus-Glockenspiel display its stories of 16th-century Bavarian culture. Marvel at the Frauenkirche cathedral's twin onion-style domes, and then, at lunchtime, set out for an extensive foodie tour, indulging in the best tastes of the region, such as schmalznudel (a Bavarian-style doughnut), sausages, local cheeses and beers, for a fun and satisfying culinary experience. Later, delight in a brewery visit and eat dinner in a traditional beer hall.

Discover the fairy-tale landscape of southern Bavaria, exploring "Mad” King Ludwig's iconic Neuschwanstein Castle. Continue to the Alpine village of Oberammergau, strolling its charming streets to see the detailed, storytelling murals on its buildings. Return to Munich for an evening at your leisure.

Today, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities.Discover the Dachau Memorial on a guided visit, and explore history at the Documentation Center.Experience Munich by Bike, cycling with a local guide who expertly reveals the fascinating sights and cultures of the bustling Bavarian capital.Explore the Deutsches Museum with a Guide, taking in its extensive collections devoted to science and technology. Tonight, celebrate at a farewell dinner, toasting your journey through Germany.

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.