Bavaria
Bavaria’s countryside boasts a trove of natural wonders. Bavarian Forest National Park, the country’s first national park, is home to 14,000 wildlife species, including the endangered lynx, Ural owl, and capercaillie. The shorelines of Lake Constance’s sparkling cyan waters touch Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, making the lake a hotspot for swimmers and sailors from all three countries. The setting for all this: The Bavarian Alps and Danube plains, which are dotted with storybook castles fit for a fairytale.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Originally a retreat for King Ludwig II, this 19th-century castle is now one of Europe’s most-visited citadels. A mix of Romanesque and Byzantine architecture, it is inspired by castles and cathedrals of the king’s childhood. Inside, discreet passageways and grand hallways lead to gilded rooms and skyscraping watchtowers.
Museum Island
Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Berlin’s most popular stops. Here, five world-class museums were built over the course of centuries. The Altes Museum was designed by one of Prussia’s most prominent architects, the Pergamon Museum houses a coveted collection of Greek and Roman antiquities, and the Bode Museum is known for its 19th sculpture collection.