Highlights from Germany, Switzerland and France all in under 1 week
The year was 2021. My wife and I had just packed our entire life into suitcases and moved halfway across the world. We allowed 2 weeks to get settled into our new home, but instead we got everything done in 4 days, so we booked a spontaneous last minute trip.
It was a trip I had been dreaming about for years. 3 countries in 6 days, traveling through fairytale villages, lakes, castles, forests and vineyards. From that point on, I would call it the European Tasting Menu - a way to sample the best of Europe in a short period of time. Here is our story:
Germany
The view of Heidelberg castle and Heidelberg old town from across the Neckar River
When you first move to a new country, I think it’s important to spend the first couple of weeks as a tourist. Make sure it’s not all immigration appointments and furniture shopping, schedule some time in to have some fun. It’s a good reminder of all the things you have to look forward to once your settled in.
We rented a car and started driving through Germany to stop at a few spots along the way. We loosely strung this trip together, with places we loved from the past, and a few new places we wanted to see.
Walking across the Karl Theodor Bridge in Heidelberg
Heidelberg: Just one hour south of Frankfurt, Heidelberg is a romantic university city built along the Neckar River. It was the first place I visited in Europe while seeing my brother during his semester abroad, so returning ten years later - after finally achieving my dream of moving to Europe - felt like a full-circle moment.
The main attraction is Heidelberg Castle, perched above the old town. I love it because it strikes the perfect balance: historic and partially ruined, yet intact enough to feel as though you are still walking through a living piece of the past. Inside, you’ll also find the world’s largest wine barrel, which is so enormous you can even walk across the top.
Black Forest: Continuing our journey through Baden Württemburg, we made a stop in the Black Forest to spend the night. This part of Germany is really special, filled with story book towns and miles of unspoiled forest. I would definitely recommend making a stop at a town like Freiburg am Breisgau for some hiking and fresh air.
Konstanz: On the second day, we made the drive down to my Alma Mater - Konstanz on the Bodensee. This is another quaint University town at the crossroads of the German speaking world - the mighty Bodensee - which connects the countries of Austria, Germany and Switzerland.
Konstanz Old Town on the Bodensee
We loved this trip so much, we’ve done a variation of it every year and learned about a new place every time. If you want us to help you book a trip to Germany, Switzerland or France we’ve got you covered! Sarah is a registered travel agent and she can help you book your dream trip to Europe.
Switzerland
Views along Lake Lucerne
We crossed the border with ease and soon we were in the postcard-perfect country of Switzerland. It’s hard to find a bad view in Switzerland. Everywhere you turn looks like a Ricola commercial.
We pulled into the town of Meggen, which would be our home base for the next couple of days as we explored the area.
