Germany in Three Cities: Exploring Berlin, Dresden & Nuremberg
Travel Month: August
Planning a Germany trip and wondering where to start? This 8-day Germany itinerary takes you through three of the country’s most historically rich and visually stunning cities — Berlin, Dresden, and Nuremberg — and is based entirely on our own family trip in August.
We didn’t originally plan Germany as our main destination. Our family was headed to Prague, and since our flights routed through Frankfurt, we decided to turn the layover into a full East Germany exploration before crossing into the Czech Republic. What started as a detour turned into one of the most memorable trips we’ve ever taken.
In 8 days, we experienced:
- Berlin — WWII history, the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall, and Cold War landmarks
- Dresden — baroque architecture, the rebuilt Frauenkirche, and a stunning Elbe riverbank
- Nuremberg — medieval old town, Nazi history, and a 1,000-year-old imperial castle
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Germany, a history enthusiast, or a family looking for a meaningful European trip, this guide covers everything you need — including how to get around by train, what to eat, and how to make the most of every day.
Day 1 : Arriving in Berlin – Frankfurt to Berlin by train
Our European journey began the moment we landed at Frankfurt Airport. We hopped into a taxi for a swift 15-minute ride to the train station, bypassing the available train alternatives. With a couple of hours to spare before our train to Berlin, we strolled around the neighborhood near the station and enjoyed a leisurely lunch.
The train journey to Berlin unfolded as an approximately three-hour visual feast through the heart of Germany, unveiling charming countryside views and glimpses of quaint villages. By the time we arrived in Berlin, evening had set in. Our hotel was a mere 20-minute walk from the station by the river Spree.
Day 2: Exploring Berlin — WWII History, Brandenburg Gate & the Berlin Wall
The next day, we opted to use a hop-on-hop-off bus to explore Berlin, given the overcast and chilly weather. Berlin, situated along the river Spree, holds a significant historical connection to World War II and the Cold War. We climbed to the top of the Berlin Cathedral (270 steps) to get a panoramic view of the city.
Later in the afternoon, we visited several key attractions that were once part of East Germany, and this is where the trip became truly eye-opening.
Standing in these spaces, it’s hard not to reflect on how different life once was when Germany was divided into two separate states after World War II: the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) and the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany). Even though reunification happened in 1990, you can still feel subtle differences in architecture, atmosphere, and urban development as you move through the former East.
During the Cold War, East Germany was influenced by a socialist system, while West Germany developed under a capitalist democracy. This division wasn’t just political—it shaped everyday life.
In the East, cities often reflect
- More uniform, functional architecture built during the socialist era
- Large apartment blocks designed for efficiency over aesthetics
- Wider open public spaces meant for collective living
In contrast, West German cities developed:
- More modern, commercial infrastructure
- Faster economic growth and redevelopment
- Stronger influence from Western Europe and global culture
Walking through former East Berlin areas, especially around remnants of the Berlin Wall, you can still sense that contrast between two very different worlds that once stood side by side.
Day 3 : Exploring Berlin with a walking tour
Our second day in Berlin included a 2-hour World War II walking tour, during which our guide led us through historical sites, offering valuable insights. We met our tour guide at the Brandenburg Gate. The gate stands as a symbol of peace and unity, attracting visitors from around the world. We walked through key locations associated with World War II, shedding light on the significant events and their impact on Berlin. We visited iconic landmarks such as remnants of the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, the Holocaust Memorial, and the Topography of Terror exhibition center.
In the evening, we had plans to visit the city’s museums. Nowadays, it’s crucial to pre-book tickets for these attractions. If time is scarce, consider starting with the Pergamon Museum. Despite having our tickets secured, jet-lag took a toll on us, forcing us to reluctantly abandon our museum plans.
Day 4 : Dresden day trip
We jumped on a morning train to Dresden and honestly, this city totally surprised us. We hadn’t planned to spend much time here, but Dresden turned out to be one of those unexpected highlights of the trip. After dropping our bags in the station lockers, we grabbed tram day tickets and headed straight for the old town.
Frauenkirche
The Frauenkirche was our first stop and wow — what a story this church has. It was completely flattened during the WWII bombing of Dresden in 1945 and sat as a pile of ruins for almost 50 years. The East German government actually left it that way on purpose, as a reminder of the devastation of war. It wasn’t until 1994 that reconstruction finally began, and the result is breathtaking. Standing inside, it’s hard to believe this was rubble not so long ago. If you have a bit of extra time, climb up to the dome — the views over Dresden are absolutely worth it.
Fürstenzug (Procession of Princes) — one of Dresden’s most iconic landmarks!
It’s a massive mural stretching about 102 meters (335 feet) along the outer wall of the Stallhof (Royal Stables) on Augustusstraße, which is visible on the street sign in your photo.
Here are some fascinating facts about it:
What it depicts: A procession of 35 rulers of the House of Wettin (the ruling dynasty of Saxony) spanning from 1123 to 1904, along with various attendants, soldiers, scientists, and artists — nearly 100 figures in total.
The material: Originally painted in 1876, it was later recreated between 1904–1907 using around 25,000 Meissen porcelain tiles to protect it from weathering. This is what makes it so extraordinary — it’s essentially a giant porcelain painting on a building exterior.
Survival of WWII: Remarkably, despite the devastating Allied bombing of Dresden in February 1945 that destroyed much of the city, the Fürstenzug survived almost completely intact — only a small number of tiles were damaged.
Old Town
From there we wandered over to the Zwinger Palace, which is basically baroque architecture at its finest. The courtyard alone had us stopping every few steps to take photos — think grand archways, ornate fountains, and perfectly manicured gardens. It also houses some seriously impressive museums including the Old Masters Picture Gallery. Right next door, Dresden Castle is home to the famous Green Vault, one of Europe’s most extraordinary treasure collections. We didn’t have enough time to go inside properly — if we were doing this trip again, we’d easily give Dresden a full extra day just for these two.
Elbe Riverbank
Our favorite part of Dresden though? Just walking along the Elbe riverbank. The views of the old town skyline from across the water are stunning — all those baroque domes and spires lined up perfectly. It’s the kind of view you stop and just stare at for a while. After all that walking, we were ready to eat and headed into the Innere Altstadt area which has loads of great little cafés and restaurants. Do yourself a favor and order a slice of Eierschecke — it’s a traditional Dresden custard cake and it’s absolutely delicious. We’d never heard of it before this trip but it was one of those little food discoveries that makes travel so special. Highly recommend!
If Dresden’s baroque beauty has you wanting more of that old-world European charm, our 3-day Belgium itinerary covering Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Dinant is worth adding to your trip — Bruges especially feels like it’s from the same era.”
Day 5 – 6 : Prague, Czech Republic
Day 7: Nuremberg – Nazi History
We returned to Nuremberg, Germany, and faced a tight train connection with just a 10-minute layover, prompting us to opt for the Flix bus from Prague to Nuremberg. To our surprise, the bus proved to be a comfortable mode of travel, though it’s advisable to carry some snacks for the 3-hour ride. It was on time and a very smooth ride.
We arrived around noon and leisurely explored the Old Town area. In the evening, we took a taxi to the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Ground and the Nuremberg Trials Memorial. The Documentation Center is built right inside one of the unfinished Congress Hall buildings from the Third Reich era — which is striking in itself. The permanent exhibition inside walks you through the rise of the Nazi party, the propaganda machinery, and the rally grounds that were designed to project power and intimidate on a massive scale. Standing in that space and seeing the actual grounds where those rallies took place is a sobering experience — photographs and documentaries don’t quite prepare you for the scale of it. It’s one of those places that is difficult to visit but important to see.
The Nuremberg Trials Memorial, where high-ranking figures from the Third Reich faced justice between 1945 and 1949, adds another layer to the visit — a reminder that the world did, eventually, respond.
Day 8: Nuremberg – Medieval Old town & Nuremberg Castle
Later in the day, we made our way to the station and boarded the train back to Frankfurt. There’s something about a train journey at the end of a trip that naturally slows you down. We watched the countryside roll by — small towns, green fields, the occasional church spire — and found ourselves talking about everything we’d seen over the past week. Berlin’s weight, Dresden’s beauty, Nuremberg’s complexity. By the time Frankfurt came into view, we felt like we’d genuinely earned the journey home.
Final Thoughts
Germany turned out to be much more than just another stop on our Europe trip. Each city had its own personality—from the dynamic energy of Berlin to the elegance of Dresden and the historic charm of Nuremberg.
What stayed with us the most was the contrast between East and West Germany—how history still shapes the cities, yet everything comes together so seamlessly today.
It’s a destination that not only offers beautiful sights but also tells a powerful story at every step.
If this kind of history-meets-culture European travel appeals to you, Portugal was another trip that completely won us over. Our week-long Portugal itinerary covering Lisbon, Porto, Nazaré and the Douro Valley is a great next read.
Germany Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go.
Getting Around
- Germany has one of the best train networks in Europe. Use the DB Navigator app (Deutsche Bahn) to book trains in advance — you’ll get cheaper fares the earlier you book
- The Deutschland-Ticket (€49/month) covers all regional trains, buses, and trams — great value if you’re staying longer than a week
- Berlin has an excellent U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (overground) system — buy a day ticket for unlimited travel
- Flix Bus is a cheap and comfortable option between cities, especially Prague to Nuremberg as you mentioned
Visa & Entry
- US, UK, Canada, and Australia citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days
- From 2025, EU visitors will need ETIAS travel authorization — check before you travel
Money
- Germany uses the Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted but carry some cash — smaller restaurants and markets are often cash only
- ATMs (called Geldautomat) are widely available in city centers
Best Time to Visit
- May to September is the best time — warm weather, long days, and outdoor festivals
- December is magical for Christmas markets in Nuremberg, Dresden, and Berlin
- Avoid July–August if you dislike crowds — popular sites get very busy
Accommodation
- Book hotels at least 2–3 months in advance for summer travel — Berlin especially fills up fast
- Stay in the city center (Mitte in Berlin, Old Town in Nuremberg) to be walking distance from major sights
Museum & Attraction Tips
- Pre-book tickets online for major Berlin museums — the Pergamon, Jewish Museum, and DDR Museum all sell out
- The Berlin Museum Pass (3-day pass) gives access to 30+ museums — worth it if you’re a museum lover
- Most major sights in Nuremberg and Dresden can be explored on foot — comfortable walking shoes are a must
Food & Drink
- Try local specialties — Nuremberg is famous for its small Rostbratwurst sausages, Berlin for Currywurst, and Dresden for Eierschecke (a local cake)
- Beer gardens (Biergarten) are a staple in summer — a great way to relax after sightseeing
- Most restaurants open for dinner from 6pm — lunch is often the bigger, cheaper meal of the day
Language
- Most people in tourist areas speak English, but learning a few basic German phrases goes a long way
- “Danke” (thank you), “Bitte” (please), “Entschuldigung” (excuse me) will be appreciated
Safety
- Germany is very safe for tourists. Standard precautions apply — watch for pickpockets in crowded train stations and markets
- Emergency number: 112
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Germany?
May to September offers the best weather — warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and vibrant outdoor events. December is magical for Christmas markets, especially in Nuremberg and Dresden. Summer (July–August) is peak tourist season, so book accommodation well in advance.
What are the must-see attractions in Berlin for first-time visitors?
Top Berlin highlights include the Brandenburg Gate, remnants of the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, the Holocaust Memorial, the Topography of Terror, and the Berlin Cathedral. A guided WWII walking tour is one of the most impactful ways to experience the city's history.
Do I need a visa to visit Germany?
Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, and Australia do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. However, from 2025, travelers will need ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) approval before entering Germany. Always check current requirements before you travel.
Is Dresden worth visiting as a day trip from Berlin?
Absolutely. Dresden is about 2 hours from Berlin by train and is one of Germany's most underrated cities. The Frauenkirche, Zwinger Palace, Fürstenzug porcelain mural, and a walk along the Elbe riverbank make for a full and memorable day. Budget extra time if you want to explore the Green Vault museum.
What is Nuremberg known for historically?
Nuremberg is significant for two contrasting chapters of history: its role as the site of massive Nazi Party rallies during the Third Reich, and later as the location of the Nuremberg Trials (1945–1949), where senior Nazi officials were prosecuted for war crimes. The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds and the Nuremberg Trials Memorial are both essential visits.
How do you get around Berlin on public transport?
Berlin has an excellent U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (overground rail) network. A day ticket gives unlimited travel across all zones and is the most cost-effective option for sightseeing. The hop-on-hop-off bus is a good alternative too.
Should you pre-book museum tickets in Berlin?
Yes — pre-booking is strongly recommended for popular Berlin museums like the Pergamon, the Jewish Museum, and the DDR Museum, as they frequently sell out. If you plan to visit multiple museums, consider the Berlin Museum Pass, which grants access to over 30 museums over 3 days.
More Firsthand Travel Guides From Our Family
Every itinerary on this site is built from our own trips — real routes, real costs, real experiences. If Germany is part of a bigger Europe plan, these guides connect naturally:
Europe
3 Days in Belgium — Brussels, Bruges, Ghent & Dinant- 1 Week in Portugal — Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley
- Amsterdam Family Guide — Canals, Zaanse Schans & Giethoorn
- 10 Days in Spain — Barcelona, Valencia, Seville & Madrid
- 2 Days in Prague — Complete First-Timer’s Itinerary
Beyond Europe
- 10 Days in Turkey — Istanbul & Cappadocia
- 2 Weeks in Australia — Complete Family Itinerary
- 7-Day Tanzania Safari — Serengeti & Ngorongoro
- 10 Days in Costa Rica — Central America Paradise
- Chile — Breathtaking Patagonia in 1 Week
Over to you
Dresden completely took us by surprise — have you ever had a destination totally exceed your expectations? I’d love to know which city did that for you!
Shaminee is a U.S.-based mom and family travel blogger who designs detailed itineraries for her own family and turns them into practical guides for others. Her goal is to make family travel simpler, more organized, and more enjoyable.
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