Germany

German Icons: Berlin, Dresden and Munich

Program No. 16877RJ

Dive deep into the culture of Germany as you explore three iconic cities, discovering politics in Berlin, architecture in Dresden and weisswurst, beer and a baroque palace in Munich.

Wishlist

Start

Length

11 days

Rating (4.67)

Activity Level

Starts at

4,349

Flights start at

1,100

Your well-being is our #1 priority

To make your experience as safe as possible, we require all participants to be fully vaccinated. See our Safety Roadmap

Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768

Need airfare?

Our airfare tool can help. Check it out

Plan ahead.

What kind of weather can you expect? Take a look!

Please Note:

The itinerary for this program is different on certain dates.

Select your type of room

Price will update based on selection

Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.

DATES & starting prices

PRICES

Apr 19 - Apr 29, 2023

Starting at

4,349

Select Date

Jun 7 - Jun 17, 2023

Starting at

4,349

Limited Space

Sep 13 - Sep 23, 2023

Starting at

5,149

Select Date

Oct 11 - Oct 21, 2023

Starting at

5,149

Select Date

Apr 17 - Apr 27, 2024

Starting at

4,699

Select Date

May 29 - Jun 8, 2024

Starting at

4,699

Select Date

Aug 28 - Sep 7, 2024

Starting at

4,699

Select Date

Oct 16 - Oct 26, 2024

Starting at

4,699

Select Date

DATES & starting prices

PRICES

Apr 19 - Apr 29, 2023

Starting at

4,919

Limited Space

Jun 7 - Jun 17, 2023

Starting at

4,919

Select Date

Sep 13 - Sep 23, 2023

Starting at

6,489

Select Date

Oct 11 - Oct 21, 2023

Starting at

6,489

Limited Space

Apr 17 - Apr 27, 2024

Starting at

5,539

Select Date

May 29 - Jun 8, 2024

Starting at

5,539

Select Date

Aug 28 - Sep 7, 2024

Starting at

5,539

Select Date

Oct 16 - Oct 26, 2024

Starting at

5,539

Select Date

Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Program Terms & Conditions

German Icons: Berlin, Dresden and Munich

Program No. 16877RJ Deposit at Enrollment: 250 Final payment due: 77 days before departure date

Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Note: These fees apply to at least one date of this program, but may vary by date.

If you transfer or cancel:

less than 30 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: 100 % of order total

Cancel Fee: 100 % of order total

66 to 30 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: 50 % of order total

Cancel Fee: 50 % of order total

up to 67 Days Prior to Program Start Date

Transfer Fee: $0.00

Cancel Fee: $250.00

If you transfer or cancel:	Transfer Fee:	Cancel Fee:
less than 30 days prior to program start date	100 % of order total	100 % of order total
66 to 30 days prior to program start date	50 % of order total	50 % of order total
up to 67 days prior to program start date	$0.00	$250.00

COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

For the greatest peace of mind and protection, we require all Road Scholar participants to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, including having received all recommended boosters if eligible.

Road Scholar Program Terms and Conditions

How to Enroll in a Program

Call Us or Enroll Online To enroll

Please call us toll free at (877) 426-8056, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET. You may also enroll online at www.roadscholar.org. To reserve space on a program, Road Scholar requires a deposit followed by final payment.

Road Scholar is Not-For-Profit

Road Scholar is a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) organization that incurs over $5 million annually on credit card fees. Please help us reduce this cost by paying for your program with a check. Please consider our paperless check option when paying on the phone or over the Internet. Our Advisors are happy to explain this payment option to you.

Tax-Deductible Donations

As a not-for-profit organization, we appreciate and rely on charitable donations to help us develop and maintain high-quality educational programs with exceptional value. Donations from U.S. citizens are tax-deductible as provided by law. As Road Scholar is not a registered charity in Canada, donations are not tax deductible for Canadian citizens.

Financial Assistance

Road Scholar offers two kinds of assistance: Scholarships, for those with desire but not the financial means to participate in our U.S.- or Canada-based learning adventures; and Caregiver Grants, designed to provide a unique respite opportunity for unpaid family caregivers to participate in a U.S.- or Canada-based Road Scholar program. Visit www.roadscholar.org/about/financial-assistance/scholarships, email us at scholarships@roadscholar.org, or call us toll free at (877) 426-8056.

General Program Information

Activity Level Ratings

Each Road Scholar program is assigned an Activity Level rating, ranging from Easy Going to Challenging, which are noted on program webpages. Try our Advanced Search tool to find programs that match your activity level. If you have special needs, or need a little extra help in finding the right program for your level of fitness and ambition, please call us and we’ll work to find options for you.

Disabilities and Special Needs

Road Scholar is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to participants with special needs and disabilities. If you have special needs requiring accommodation, please communicate them to Road Scholar at the time of enrollment. We will discuss your request with you and make every effort to accommodate you.

Service Learning

Our Service Learning programs bring participants together to work as a team to serve worthy projects. Road Scholar and sponsoring service institutions are not-for-profit organizations and are tax-exempt under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The program price may qualify as a tax-deductible gift. However, since individual circumstances vary, we suggest participants contact their tax advisors.

Included Emergency Assistance and Medical Evacuation Insurance

Road Scholar’s continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified in our Road Scholar Assurance Plan. Whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our programs overseas, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under the Road Scholar Assurance Plan. This plan is purchased by Road Scholar on behalf of every participant. The plan provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program and insurance for emergency medical evacuation. This plan includes insurance benefits underwritten by Arch Insurance Company and emergency assistance services provided by LiveTravel Assist. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/included-insurance/

Travel Health

In addition to maintaining necessary vaccinations, including seasonal influenza vaccination, Road Scholar recommends all participants consult with their physician, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of State regarding their health condition and any recommendations specific to the destinations they will visit or transit well before departure. While Road Scholar does its best to provide pertinent information regarding international health requirements and travel health precautions for travel abroad, please remember we are not health experts and can only share with you the recommendations made by the CDC and the US Department of State. It It is therefore your responsibility to consult with your physician and/or contact the CDC for health information specific to your travel destination. Your physician will be able to assess your overall health and fitness, provide information and guidance on health risks you may encounter while traveling, medication you may need to take, and other precautions for the prevention of injury and illness during your program.

Here is guidance from the Centers for Disease Control on how to avoid contracting and spreading an illness.

Only travel if you are healthy. Stay home if you are sick, displaying any symptoms of potential sickness.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

For those looking for additional resources on this topic, we recommend trusted sources such as your physician, the US Department of State, CDC, and WHO.

U.S. Department of State: www.travel.state.gov
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov/travel
World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int/

Your health and safety are of the utmost importance to us. To learn more about Road Scholar’s commitment to our participants’ well-being and the steps you can take to keep yourself healthy when traveling, please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/general-health-safety/

Please also be sure to review our Travel Updates webpage for the latest travel information, steps we are taking to keep your program experience as safe as possible, as well as helpful information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there. www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/travel-updates/

Domestic Travel Arrangements

Programs in the United States and Canada require independent arrivals and departures unless otherwise stated, meaning that you must make your own travel arrangements to and from the program site. If you are flying to your program, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 60 days prior to your program in the United States or Canada to purchase airfare.

International Travel Arrangements

Road Scholar Can Help Arrange Your International Airfare

Almost all of our international programs can be purchased with airfare arranged by Road Scholar. We have negotiated special international rates with major airlines. A list of departure cities can be found by visiting our website or calling to speak with one of our experienced Advisors. As an added benefit, guaranteed airport transfers on the program’s published start and end date are included with your international air travel when arranged through Road Scholar. If your preferred airport is not listed, or you would like to travel on a different day, travel in premium or business class, specify the airline or routing, or travel independently before or after our program, we are happy to customize and create a personalized air travel itinerary to meet your needs. Select the “Custom Flight Arrangements” option and then the airport you want, or discuss your flight preferences with one of our expert air Travel Advisors.

Arranging Your Own International Airfare

If you choose to make your own international air travel arrangements, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 90 days prior to your International program to purchase airfare,

Road Scholar Optional Trip Protection with “Cancel for Any Reason” Coverage

The optional Road Scholar Trip Protection Plan helps protect your investment if you must cancel or interrupt your program for specified, covered reasons, such as illness or injury to you, your traveling companion or an immediate family member of you or your traveling companion. Plus, if you need to cancel your program for any reason not covered by insurance, you will receive a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar for the full amount of the Road Scholar cancellation fee. The plan also provides benefits if you are delayed getting to or returning home from your program and protects your investment should you have an emergency during your program that causes you to miss program days or return home earlier than expected. Your airfare, whether purchased through Road Scholar or independently, is covered at no additional cost — an exceptional benefit and value offered exclusively to Road Scholar participants. You will receive information about this optional travel insurance plan when you enroll in a program. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/protection-plan.

Additional Program Information

Our goal is to make sure our participants have the most enjoyable and rewarding program experience possible. Whether you are considering one of Road Scholar’s many educational adventures or are currently enrolled in a program, we highly recommend you review the additional program information available in the Practical Information section on our website. The section includes a wide range of topics and information -- everything from how to choose the perfect program to traveling solo to insurance. Please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information, or call us if you have specific questions. After you enroll in a program, please be sure to carefully read all pre-program communications and your Program preparatory materials, as they provide important information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there.

Program Policies

Deposit, Transfer and Cancellation Policy

Road Scholar requires deposits for all its programs, and charges fees if you transfer or cancel your enrollment. Deposits and fees vary between programs. Please refer to the Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy on program webpages for specific deposit amounts, and transfer and cancellation fee schedules.

About Program Details and Itineraries

We make every effort to operate our programs as advertised. The information on our website is updated regularly, and reflects the most up to date information. We are committed to providing participants with final program details no later than three weeks before the start of land programs within the United States, four weeks for programs International and Afloat programs. and one week for online programs. However, itineraries or other aspects of a program may change due to situations beyond the control. If this happens we will do our best to notify you of the change prior to arriving on your program. We ask you to pack a little extra patience and flexibility, just in case there are last-minute changes to your program.

If Road Scholar Cancels or Interrupts a Program

Road Scholar reserves the right to cancel programs prior to departure, terminate a program early, and to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action. Additionally, due to low enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances, Road Scholar must occasionally cancel or change the dates of a program. When that occurs we will notify you as far in advance as possible and will assist you in transferring your enrollment to another program or refunding your full Road Scholar program payment. If you have made transportation arrangements, such as an airline ticket purchase, Road Scholar will give you a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar to help cover the cost of transferring your travel arrangements for use on a replacement program. The maximum value of the credit will be $300 and documentation of your paid fees is required before issuance of the credit.

Accuracy of Information

While every effort is made to provide accurate information on our website and in our catalogs, Road Scholar is not responsible for typographical errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may relate to program descriptions, pricing, and availability. Road Scholar reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may appear in our publications, and to change or update information at any time without prior notice. If you discover an error on our website or catalog, please let us know.

Program Pricing

As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to providing exceptional educational opportunities at a remarkable value. We do everything in our power to ensure that the published program price is the price you pay. On occasion, costs we can’t anticipate and that are beyond our control arise and may be passed along to you. If this occurs, we will let you know as soon as possible.

Terms and Conditions

Program Selection
We want every participant to have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding program experience. The travel and activities of Road Scholar programs require participants to be in good general health and capable of performing all program activities as described by the program description and its corresponding Activity Level. As a group travel experience, participants must be capable of caring for themselves during the program and agree not to impede the progress of the program or interfere with the enjoyment of other participants. Participants are required to disclose known medical and physical conditions that may interfere with their safety and well being or the safety and well being of others during this program. Road Scholar may limit or terminate the participation in the program at the participant’s expense and without refund any participants who fail to disclose all medical information or do not honestly assess their physical capabilities in advance. With this information in mind, carefully consider the travel and program demands as described on the Road Scholar website, and consult with your physician about your travel plans. If after enrolling you have second thoughts about the program you chose, please call us and we will be happy to assist you in finding a program better suited to your abilities.

Responsibility

Road Scholar’s responsibility is limited. Road Scholar organizes, promotes, and sells educational programs consisting of certain travel services, including land, air, and water transportation, excursions, and cruise/barge/hotel accommodations that Road Scholar purchases or reserves from various suppliers (collectively, “Suppliers”). Road Scholar neither owns nor operates any of these Suppliers; they are independent contractors and are not Road Scholar’s agents. Therefore, Road Scholar is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any Supplier or any other third party. You agree that you will look to such Suppliers, and not to Road Scholar or its agents, for any accident, injury, property damage, or personal loss you may suffer. Without limitation, Road Scholar is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage to person or property, death, delay, or inconvenience in connection with the provision of, or failure to provide, any goods or services occasioned by or resulting from — but not limited to — acts of God or force majeure, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities of any kind, mechanical or other failure of airplanes or other means of transportation, or the failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart on time, or for any other cause beyond the direct control of Road Scholar.

Safety & Risks

Certain risks — from natural disasters to accidents, outbreaks of illness, crime, insect-borne and other infectious diseases, environmental risks to health, terrorism and other unforeseen events — are inherent in travel. While such occurrences are beyond our control, we make substantial efforts to be prepared for such possibilities. Participants are encouraged to review the safety and travel information provided by the U.S. Department of State and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to learn about current security issues, travel advisories and warnings, recent embassy notices, country-specific health information, health risks you may encounter while traveling, precautions for the prevention of illness, disease and general health issues during your program and other helpful destination-specific information. By enrolling in a program, you agree to assume responsibility for your own health, safety, and welfare, and acknowledge that Road Scholar cannot guarantee your safety or health at any time.

Admission & Participation Policy

The granting or denial of admission to a program is within the sole discretion of Road Scholar. Road Scholar reserves the right to revoke admission or terminate or limit participation at any time if Road Scholar reasonably determines a participant’s condition, behavior or actions are inappropriate or disruptive, or adversely affect the participant’s health or safety, or the health, safety or enjoyment of other participants. Road Scholar reserves the right to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s sole opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action.

Photography and Video

Road Scholar reserves the right to take photographs, videos or audio/visual recordings during the operation of any program or part thereof and to use them, whether taken by a representative of Road Scholar or by other participants, for promotional purposes. By enrolling in a Road Scholar program, participants agree to allow their images or recordings to be used for such purposes. Participants who prefer that their images or recordings not be used are asked to identify themselves to program staff and the photographer at the commencement of their program. For Road Scholar online programs, all audio or video recordings, content and materials are the property of Road Scholar. Participants are prohibited from taking screen captures, or making, copying or distributing all or part of any audio or video recordings of online programs.

Online Program Terms

If you enroll in one of Road Scholar’s online programs, you are responsible for the integrity of the device on which you will attend this online program, as well as your own high-speed internet connection. Road Scholar is not responsible for outages or interruptions in internet service. Road Scholar cannot and will not provide recordings, content or materials, or provide reimbursement of any kind, for missed portion(s) of your online program, regardless of the reason.

Seller of Travel Information

Road Scholar’s state of Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602244658. CST #2068427-40. Florida Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST35594.

Modifications to Terms and Conditions

Road Scholar reserves the right at any time to update, change, modify, or revise these Terms and Conditions at any time. Any changes will become effective upon posting the changes, modifications or revisions to the Terms and Conditions. Accordingly, participants should review Road Scholar’s Terms and Conditions regularly prior to travel in order to ensure they are aware of any changes.

2022 Elderhostel. All rights reserved. The Road Scholar service marks, logos, website address and other marks are owned by Elderhostel, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring adults to learn, discover and travel.

Optional Trip Protection Plan

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768

11 days

10 nights

18 meals

9B 5L 4D

In Transit to Program

In Flight

Arrive Berlin, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner

Berlin

Berlin Past-Present-Future, City Highlights by Motorcoach

Berlin

Reichstag, Free Time, Performance

Berlin

Museum Island, Free Time

Berlin

Train to Dresden, Royal Palace & Green Vault

Dresden

Dresden City Exploration, Semperoper

Dresden

Transfer to Munich, City Exploration

Munich

Oktoberfestvisit and leisure time

Munich

Lecture, Art District, Pinakothek Museum, Farewell Dinner

Munich

Program Concludes

Munich

View Full Itinerary

At a Glance

Join local experts to discover the shared history and unique identity behind Germany’s most important cultural metropolises — Berlin and Munich. While both cities boast rich history, traditions and arts, the cultures of each are strikingly different. Halfway between Berlin and Munich, visit the city of Dresden to marvel at the cultural treasures that lay hidden behind the Iron Curtain for a generation.

Activity Level

Keep the Pace

Walking up to two hours/two miles at a time, sometimes twice per day. Some program days require walking up to five miles and standing for up to 2 hours. Some sights are only accessible by stairs and/or cobblestones. Public transportation and motor coaches used throughout the program.

Small Group

Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

Examine Berlin’s artistic treasures on the famous Museumsinsel and the German Bundestag, redesigned by Sir Norman Foster.
Discover Dresden with its newly restored Frauenkirche and the highly regarded Semperoper.
Explore the collection of Old Masters from the 14th to the 18th centuries at one of the oldest art galleries in the world – the Alte Pinakothek.

General Notes

Program includes independent time to explore the city and several meals on your own. Group Leaders will provide directions for self-directed excursions. Suggestions for free-time activities provided in preparatory materials.

Featured Expert

All Experts

Burkhard Heyl

Burkhard Heyl has performed in films, television and radio play productions both internationally and in his home country of Germany. He studied acting at the Folkwang School in Essen, Germany, and has authored numerous screenplays and short stories. A decorated excursion leader, Burkhard accompanies explorers on highly personalized adventures through Berlin and Potsdam while sharing his expertise and passion for the region’s history.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Burkhard Heyl View biography

Wolf Refardt View biography

An expert on the military history of the 19th and 20th centuries, Wolf Refardt enjoys sharing his knowledge during his lectures and classes on the events of the Cold War. Wolf has published papers on themes that range from Sepulchral culture in enlightened absolutism to the development of public welfare in Brandenburg, and to the history of battles that took place during World War II.

Sabine Rosenkranz View biography

Sabine Rosenkranz was born in Dresden, East Germany, where she grew up to become an English teacher. In love with her beautiful home city, she decided she wanted to introduce it to visitors. Sabine became a licensed city excursion leader 25 years ago and has delighted in leading American visitors around Dresden since the German reunification of 1990. She particularly enjoys showing off the Saxon State Art Collections.

John Langton View biography

John Langton, an authorized director at the Pinakotheken galleries in Munich, has lived and worked in the Bavarian capital for the past 15 years. John holds a diploma in the history of fine and decorative arts from London, studying there after completing his international career in finance and management. A keen history student John is always looking to place the fine and applied arts, into their social, political or cultural context; thus giving relevance for the benefit of his guests and visitors.

Janet Kempf View biography

Janet Kempt studied art history, Spanish and history in Berlin, Madrid and Munich. She has worked in both the curatorial and pedagogical fields of museums since 2006. One of her favorite works of art is Donatello's “Putto with Tambourine” in the Bode Museum, which presents the beginning of the Renaissance in Italy in an extraordinary way.

Richard Obermaier View biography

Richard is a certified group leader in Munich and Bavaria. He is trained as a banker and studied business administration, receiving his PhD from Ludwig Maximilian University. He has worked as a manager and director for large companies including Sixt and Allianz. He is a business trainer in the field of motivation, coaching and "learn to learn" (written test preparation). Richard has led groups in his native Munich for about a decade.

André Meral View biography

André is a political scientist who received his university degree from the Freie Universität Berlin. For many years he has been working as a group leader in Berlin and other places in Germany and Europe with a special focus on political history and the culture of remembrance. In Berlin, he works as a group leader for the German Federal Parliament (Deutscher Bundestag) and the Museum of Film and Cinema. He speaks German as a mother tongue as well as English, French and Italian.

Suggested Reading List (12 books)

Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop

You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.

Search for a Title

Five Germanys I have known

by Fritz Stern

The "German question" haunts the modern world: How could so civilized a nation be responsible for the greatest horror in Western history? In this unusual fusion of personal memoir and history, the celebrated scholar Fritz Stern refracts the question through the prism of his own life.

Where Ghosts Walked: Munich's Road to the Third Reich

by David Clay Large

The capital of the Nazi movement was not Berlin but Munich, according to Hitler himself. In examining why, historian David Clay Large begins in Munich four decades before World War I and finds a proto-fascist cultural heritage that proved fertile soil later for Hitler's movement. An engrossing account of the time and place that launched Hitler on the road to power.

The Swan King: Ludwig II of Bavaria

by Christopher McIntosh

"The Swan King" is the biography of one of the most enigmatic figures of the 19th century, described by Verlaine as 'the only true king of his century'. A man of wildly eccentric temperament and touched by a rare, imaginative genius, Ludwig II of Bavaria is remembered both for his patronage of Richard Wagner and for the fabulous palaces which he created as part of a dream-world to escape the responsibilities of state. In realization of his fantasies, he created a ferment of creativity among artists and craftsmen, while his neglect of Bavaria's political interests made powerful enemies among those critical of his self-indulgence and excesses. At the age of 40, declared insane in a plot to depose him, Ludwig died in mysterious circumstances.

The Book Thief

by Markus Zusak

Set during World War II in Germany, Markus Zusak’s groundbreaking new novel is the story of Liesel Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich. Liesel scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement before he is marched to Dachau.

Book of Clouds

by Chloe Aridjis

Chloe Aridjis's beautifully evocative novel is set in today's Berlin; a young Mexican woman flees her family only to find a city that cannot escape its past.

Alone in Berlin

by Hans Fallada

In 1940, in the heart of Hitler's capital, Otto and Anna Quangel are alone in Berlin with a breathtaking campaign of resistance.

Stasiland

by Anna Funder

Not surprisingly the fall of the Berlin Wall caused panic at the Stasi headquarters, as described in Anna Funder's riveting portrait of East Germany's secret police and how it controlled a nation.

The White Rose

by Inge Scholl

The White Rose tells the story of Hans Scholl and Sophie Scholl, who in 1942 led a small underground organization of German students and professors to oppose the atrocities committed by Hitler and the Nazi Party. They named their group the White Rose, and they distributed leaflets denouncing the Nazi regime. Sophie, Hans, and a third student were caught and executed. Written by Inge Scholl (Hans' and Sophie's sister), The White Rose features letters, diary excerpts, photographs of Hans and Sophie, transcriptions of the leaflets, and accounts of the trial and execution. This is a gripping account of courage and morality.

The Tin Drum

by Günter Grass

Günter Grass is a widely acclaimed author of plays, essays, poems, and numerous novels. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1999.

German History in Modern Times: Four Lives of the Nation

by William W. Hagen

This history of German-speaking central Europe offers a very wide perspective, emphasizing a succession of many-layered communal identities. It highlights the interplay of individual, society, culture and political power, contrasting German with Western patterns.

The Berlin Wall Story

by Hans-Hermann Hertle

Where did the Berlin Wall actually stand? Why was it built? How did people keep managing to escape across it – and how many died in the attempt? Why did it come down in the end? Numerous previously unknown photographs document the construction of this barrier system of barbed wire, alarm fences and concrete. Spectacular escape stories and shocking deaths are chronicled here in words and images, as are the dramatic events surrounding the construction and the fall of the Wall. A stunning survey of the Berlin Wall – the central symbol of the Cold War.

Germany: Memories of a Nation

by Neil MacGregor

From Neil MacGregor, the author of A History of the World in 100 Objects, this is a view of Germany like no otherFor the past 140 years, Germany has been the central power in continental Europe. Twenty-five years ago a new German state came into being. How much do we really understand this new Germany, and how do its people now understand themselves?

Start Enrolling

Print All

Map details are not available for this location.

View Map

Expand All

11 days

10 nights

18 meals

9 B 5 L 4 D

DAY

In Transit to Program

In Flight

DAY

Arrive Berlin, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner

Berlin

Maritim proArte Hotel Berlin

Activity note: Hotel check-in available from 3:00 p.m. Luggage can be stored at the hotel if you arrive early. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously).

Afternoon: Orientation: 4:30 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone with a warm welcome and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule and any changes, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures including contact numbers for key staff, and answer any questions you may have. We will review COVID-19 protocols and will adhere to applicable requirements and guidelines throughout the program. Please note that in Germany it is often expected to pay for using public restrooms with small change; we advise carry 50c pieces with you during field trips. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Dinner: At a local restaurant.

Evening: At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

DAY

Berlin Past-Present-Future, City Highlights by Motorcoach

Berlin

B,L

Maritim proArte Hotel Berlin

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach several times; short walks to and standing at field trip sites; cobblestones. The specific sites seen during our motorcoach field trip will depend on schedules and local conditions at the time of the program.

Breakfast: In the hotel dining room.

Morning: Our Group Leader will continue the program introduction, and we’ll be joined by an expert local historian who will give a presentation on Berlin’s problematic past, its vibrant present, and potential future. We’ll then board a motorcoach with our expert for a field trip to see some of the city’s highlights including the Berlin Wall monument, Checkpoint Charlie, Gendarmenmarkt Square with the restored Konzerthaus and the French and German churches, Paris Square and the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, Holocaust Memorial, Potsdamer Square (the new and old), Memorial Church, and new architecture.

Lunch: At a pleasant spot during our field trip, we’ll stop and have packed lunches.

Afternoon: Our expert-led field trip continues aboard the motorcoach with stops at key sites.

Dinner: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

Reichstag, Free Time, Performance

Berlin

B,D

Maritim proArte Hotel Berlin

Activity note: Walking up to 1.6 miles at different sites; standing, climbing flights of stairs. Getting on/off a motorcoach. Walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: In the morning, we will have an opportunity to venture behind the scenes of German politics and discuss current issues with a political expert. We will then take a walking field trip with the Group Leader this morning to one of the city’s most famous landmarks, the former Reichstag building that is now the seat of the Deutscher Bundestag, the German Federal Parliament. As we see and appreciate the magnificent architecture, we will also learn more from a staffer about Germany’s turbulent political past — and that mysterious 1933 fire! — before ascending to the recently rebuilt glass cupola. From here, you can enjoy spectacular views of the parliamentary and government district and Berlin’s sights.

Lunch: On your own to sample local fare. Why not try a typical German dish, the "currywurst?" Did you know the invention of currywurst is attributed to Herta Heuwer, a true Berliner? Your Group Leader will be happy to point out the best place to give it a try!

Afternoon: Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities at the end of the daily schedule. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Dinner: From the hotel, we’ll take the motorcoach to a restaurant.

Evening: We will enjoy a classical music concert.

DAY

Museum Island, Free Time

Berlin

B,L

Maritim proArte Hotel Berlin

Activity note: Walking up to 2 miles; cobblestones, standing in the museum. Getting on/off a motorcoach. Walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: We will begin the morning with a lecture by a knowledgeable local expert who will join us in a conference room to provide an overview of Berlin's famous Museumsinsel — Museum Island — at the northern tip of Spree Island, where the settlement that became Berlin began. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Museum Island complex is home to five internationally acclaimed museums. After the lecture, we will go and see one of the exhibitions led by the local expert. The Altes Museum houses treasures from ancient Greece and Rome. The Alte Nationalgalerie, in a magnificent classical temple, has one of the largest collections of 19th century sculpture and paintings in Germany. The Bode Museum features sculptures, paintings, and a numismatic collection. The Neues Museum holds works of art from pre-history through Egyptian, including the world famous bust of Nefertiti. The Pergamon Museum is renowned for its extraordinary Babylonian, Greek and Roman antiquities.

Lunch: At a restaurant on Museum Island.

Afternoon: Free time. Take this opportunity to see and do what interests you most. You are welcome to remain and continue exploring the treasures of Museum Island.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy local fare. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Evening: At leisure. Prepare for transfer to Dresden in the morning.

DAY

Train to Dresden, Royal Palace & Green Vault

Dresden

B,L

Hotel NH Collection Dresden Altmarkt

Activity note: Walking a short distance to the train station. Our luggage will be sent ahead from Berlin to Dresden while we take the train and will be waiting for us at the hotel when we arrive; bring only what you will need on the train and during the field trip in Dresden. The trip from Berlin to Dresden is approximately 2 hours depending on connections. Standing in the museum, walking on cobblestones. Walking and other activities during independent exploration according to personal choice.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: After checking out of the hotel, we will take a short walk to the train station. Your luggage will be sent directly to the hotel in Dresden so you will only need to bring what you need for the train ride.

Lunch: At the hotel.

Afternoon: Before checking in at our hotel, we will visit the Royal Palace with a local expert. After this, you can visit the "Historic Green Vault" – one of Europe's finest treasure collections, recently reopened after 68 years – on your own. It was amassed by Augustus the Strong, the 18th-century Prince of Saxony. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore on your own or just relax. We recommend visiting one or more of the city’s 30 museums, many of them world-class institutions. Please note that some museums are closed on Mondays.

Dinner: On your own.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

Dresden City Exploration, Semperoper

Dresden

B,L

Hotel NH Collection Dresden Altmarkt

Activity note: Walking up to 2 miles and standing, approximately 2.5 hours; cobblestones, climbing stairs. Walking and other activities during independent exploration according to personal choice.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: A local expert will lead our walking field trip in Dresden that provides an overview of the Old Town and sites including the Frauenkirche — Church of Our Lady — the Zwinger, Brühl’s Terrasse, Procession of Princes, Dresden Castle, and the New Synagogue. The Frauenkirche has been one of Dresden’s spiritual landmarks since the 11th century. The splendid Baroque church that replaced the old Gothic edifice in the 18th century was one of the city’s foremost architectural landmarks until 1945. Dresden was virtually destroyed by the massive Allied bombing campaign against Nazi Germany in the final stages of World War II. The Frauenkirche was among the casualties, its ruins standing for decades as a symbol of war’s destruction. Sentiment slowly grew for a restoration of the great church as a memorial to peace. It was restored piece by piece and reconsecrated in 2005 before an audience of 60,000 people with millions watching on television.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: As a special highlight, we will head out on foot for an expert-led field trip to see the Semperoper near the Elbe River in the historic center of Dresden, another Dresden institution devastated by the 1945 bombing and later resurrected. It was long one of the finest opera houses in Europe, called “Semper” for its designer, Gottfried Semper, after opening in 1841. It took 40 years after World War II, but the building was completely reconstructed and reopened in 1985. It has continued to present some of the world’s greatest musical artists. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore on your own or just relax.

Dinner: On your own.

Evening: At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer to Munich in the morning.

DAY

Transfer to Munich, City Exploration

Munich

B,D

Maritim Hotel München

Activity note: Our luggage will be sent ahead from Dresden to Munich while we take the train and will be waiting for us at the hotel when arrive; bring only what you will need on the train. The trip from Dresden to Munich is about 290 miles, approximately 5 hours including one change of trains. Getting on/off a bus; walking up to 3 miles, cobblestone streets.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: With our Group Leader, we will take a train from Dresden to Munich.

Lunch: On your own either aboard the train – which has restaurant cars – or after arrival in Munich.

Afternoon: When we arrive at the hotel for check-in, collect your luggage and take some time to freshen up and relax before our next field trip. We’ll then meet a local expert for a walking field trip of Munich. Highlights include the Marienplatz, English Garden, Cathedral of our Blessed Lady, and Viktualienmarkt.

Dinner: At a local restaurant.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

Oktoberfestvisit and leisure time

Munich

B,L

Maritim Hotel München

Activity note: Walking up to 5 miles; walking over Oktoberfest grounds

Breakfast: In the hotel dining room.

Morning: After breakfast, we will board the tram to go to Theresienwiese and visit the Oktoberfest. We have reserved spots in a beer tent for the group including traditional music and food.

Lunch: In a beer tent at the Oktoberfest

Afternoon: After this, enjoy some leisure time at the Oktoberfest grounds.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy local fare.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

Lecture, Art District, Pinakothek Museum, Farewell Dinner

Munich

B,D

Maritim Hotel München

Activity note: Walking up to 2 miles through the museum.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: We will gather in a conference room to hear a lecture about Munich and Bavaria. After this, enjoy some leisure time to explore the city on your own.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy local fare. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Afternoon: The Alte Pinakothek and Neue Pinakothek (Old and New Picture Galleries) are two of the important galleries in the world. Led by an expert, we’ll explore the artistic treasures of the “old” Pinakothek which is indeed one of the world’s oldest galleries and was once the largest. Its magnificent collection consists of Old Masters from the 14th to the 18th centuries.

Dinner: At a local restaurant. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.

Evening: At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.

DAY

Program Concludes

Munich

Activity note: Hotel check-out by 12:00 Noon. See your program’s “Transportation Information” regarding transfers.

Breakfast: At the hotel. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!