Bavaria, Land of Legends

About Munich

Munich is the capital and largest city of the German state of Bavaria. It is located on the River Isar north of the Bavarian Alps. Munich is home to many national and international authorities, major universities, major museums and theaters. Its numerous architectural attractions, international sports events, exhibitions, conferences and Oktoberfest attract considerable tourism. Since 2006, the city's motto has been "Munich loves you".

Munich is the capital and largest city of the German state of Bavaria. It is located on the River Isar north of the Bavarian Alps. Munich is home to many national and international authorities, major universities, major museums and theaters. Its numerous architectural attractions, international sports events, exhibitions, conferences and Oktoberfest attract considerable tourism. Since 2006, the city's motto has been "Munich loves you".

About Nuremberg

Nuremberg was, according to the first documentary mention of the city in 1050, the location of a roman Imperial castle and is often referred to as having been the 'unofficial capital' of the Holy Roman Empire. Because of the city's relevance to the Holy Roman Empire and its position in the centre of Germany, the Nazi Party chose the city to be the site of huge Nazi Party conventions – the Nuremberg rallies. Between 1945 and 1946, German officials involved in war crimes and crimes against humanity were brought before an international tribunal in the Nuremberg Trials. Sites in Nuremberg include: Nuremberg Castle an Heilig-Geist-Spital, the largest hospital of the Middle Ages.

Nuremberg was, according to the first documentary mention of the city in 1050, the location of a roman Imperial castle and is often referred to as having been the 'unofficial capital' of the Holy Roman Empire. Because of the city's relevance to the Holy Roman Empire and its position in the centre of Germany, the Nazi Party chose the city to be the site of huge Nazi Party conventions – the Nuremberg rallies. Between 1945 and 1946, German officials involved in war crimes and crimes against humanity were brought before an international tribunal in the Nuremberg Trials. Sites in Nuremberg include: Nuremberg Castle an Heilig-Geist-Spital, the largest hospital of the Middle Ages.

About Heidelberg

What does an Apothecary Museum, a world-renown wine cellar and an enormous jester statue have in common? We won’t leave you in suspense and tell you straight-forward – all this and more is what makes Heidelberg city an extremely popular tourist destination! Located on the Neckar River, it combines old-world charm with modernism. People are left in awe of The Old Town and the University and the ancient library, as well as the historic 14th century Heidelberg Castle which overlooks the city and are enthralled when they tour the Artillery Garden, surrounded by cannon posts. People are fascinated when they visit the wine cellar, known as the Heidelberg Tun, which has the world’s biggest wine barrel built in 1751 and are amused by the well-known statue Perkeo the Jester.  In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Heidelberg offers an exciting cultural scene, with theatres, art galleries, numerous museums as well as incredible landscapes of hills, lakes and forests. Heidelberg has it all!

What does an Apothecary Museum, a world-renown wine cellar and an enormous jester statue have in common? We won’t leave you in suspense and tell you straight-forward – all this and more is what makes Heidelberg city an extremely popular tourist destination! Located on the Neckar River, it combines old-world charm with modernism. People are left in awe of The Old Town and the University and the ancient library, as well as the historic 14th century Heidelberg Castle which overlooks the city and are enthralled when they tour the Artillery Garden, surrounded by cannon posts. People are fascinated when they visit the wine cellar, known as the Heidelberg Tun, which has the world’s biggest wine barrel built in 1751 and are amused by the well-known statue Perkeo the Jester.  In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Heidelberg offers an exciting cultural scene, with theatres, art galleries, numerous museums as well as incredible landscapes of hills, lakes and forests. Heidelberg has it all!

It was here that the prestigious, secular Heidelberg University aka Ruperto Carola, was established in 1386 under the auspices of Pope Urban VI, making it the oldest university in Germany.  It is known as being one of Europe’s leading comprehensive research universities, as well as being   renowned for its Faculty of Medicine. The impressive library, known as the Heidelberg University Library (Universitätsbibliothek Heidelberg), includes millions of manuscripts and books, many of them unique and ancient, as well as a collection of maps and other media such as videos and micro films. The history of the city is filled with fascinating events. It was a favorite city for counts and electors who were responsible for the construction of magnificent buildings – especially the famous Heidelberg Palace which sits on the northern part of The Königstuhl summit which allows for views of the city as well as the Neckar River. The construction started in 1200 AD but suffered much during the 500 years that passed until its destruction in 1693 by the army of “The Sun King” Louis XIV. Basically, it was due to the fact that he felt he was entitled to inherit the castle, as being Monsieur Philippe I, the older brother of Duke of Orleans.  A tour of the castle is actually a tour of a courtyard with a group of several buildings around it. TIP: If you’re not taking the funicular and plan on coming with a car, it is best to park in one of the lots and follow the signs to the castle.  On the other hand, if you are taking the funicular in the city then get off at the Schloss Station.  At the lower station you can buy a combined ticket for the train and entrance to the castle.  Suggested route: Walk straight past the ornate Elizabeth’s Gate into the Artillery Garden which is surrounded by cannon posts and which offer beautiful views of the palace façade. It is here that you can take a “Kodak Moment” from what was once a five-story tall turret but was later destroyed by an explosion from gunpowder that was stored within. Crossing over you’ll find ourselves in an impressive Renaissance style courtyard full of wall sculptures and then continue to the Heidelberg Tun - the wine cellar. It has the world’s biggest wine barrel built in 1751 and large barrels that most probably had never been filled with wine.You can climb the stairs to the top of the largest barrel (which can hold 220,000 liters) and dance on the dance floor.  The well-known statue Perkeho the jester (whose real name was Clemens Pankert) is waiting at the bottom of the stairs. Legend has it that he drank wine on a daily basis, until one day he accidently drank water – and died. He is the unofficial mascot of the city and area. Then from the winery you’ll ascend to the observation deck for an amazing view.   Upon returning to the courtyard go to the building on the left and don’t miss a visit to the German Apothecary Museum which is right there; included in the price. You will see this impressive collection with over 20,000 objects on display including different kinds of receptacles, instruments and raw materials that were used in the past and some of them to this day, for concocting medicines. As well, you will gain interesting insights into the history of pharmaceutics. Tip: Do use the audio guide so you will understand the history of the museum.Returning to the castle pass through a small beautifully designed gate that was constructed by Fredrick V, in honor of his marriage to Elizabeth Stewart in 1615. Legend has it that the gate was built in one night as a birthday present to his wife. Descending from here you’ll get back to the city by funicular, or by foot, to a route that will lead you from the town hall plaza and the Holy Ghost Church on Market Square (Marktplatz), one of the oldest squares in Heidelberg. Continue to the pedestrian area and then on to the university. Pay close attention to the gabled House of Knight St. George, architecturally typical of the styles of all the houses in Heidelberg before its destruction in 1688. It is opposite the Church of the Holy Spirit (Hauptstr.178), an exciting area for wandering between shops and the townhouses.  If you’re interested you can visit the university and the ancient library. Afterwards you’ll cross the old bridge, officially called Karl-Theodor Bridge, which was built in 1788. There is a great view from which to take your photos of Heidelberg’s skyline of church spires, the castle and the houses on the river front.  Located at the west end of the Bridge Gate is the “Bridge Monkey” and legend says if you touch the hand then you will return to the city and if you touch the mirror, you’ll become rich and if you touch the mice next to the monkey you will be blessed with many children!  Good Luck and may you get whatever you wish for! In the university quarter of Heidelberg, on the bend of the Neckar River you will find the Heidelberg Zoo (Zoologische Garten Heidelberg). You have an option to join an organized tour, an opportunity to feed some animals and take a break in one of the cafes or restaurants in this corner of paradise. The zoo is home to about 2000 animals including polar bears, giant turtles, gorillas, elephants, leopards, flamingos and many other diverse species. Easily accessible, you can visit about 2,000 animals including polar bears, giant turtles, gorillas, elephants, leopards, flamingos and many other diverse species. Easily accessible, it’s truly one of the most pleasant and charming zoos enjoyed not only by children but very much so by adults as well. Not too big – not too small, but just right! If you’d like to sate your appetite with an authentic regional dish, just try the Schweinshaxe, which is pork shank served with potato slices and includes, as per tradition, sauerkraut. Another typical dish for the region is: Spätzle; (pasta or dumpling made with eggs) typically served as a side dish with meat and gravy dishes which is very popular in the restaurants throughout the city. Typical wines of the region are red and white wines from the various grape varieties: Riesling, Pinot Noir, Gewurztraminer.Bon Appetit!

About Baden Baden

Former US president, Bill Clinton, once visited the city of Baden-Baden. With his characteristic sense of humor he quipped, “Baden-Baden is so nice they had to name it twice”. Indeed it is one of the most charming cities in Germany. As Johannes Brahms, the famous German composer from the 1800’s said of the city of thermal springs and spas, “I've always been passionate about Baden-Baden." The virtues of the springs the Romans had already discovered when they ruled in that region at the beginning of the first millennium CE. This is where they first constructed the first bathhouses, where they planted the first vines which they brought with them from “the Boot Country”, the moniker for Italy.

Former US president, Bill Clinton, once visited the city of Baden-Baden. With his characteristic sense of humor he quipped, “Baden-Baden is so nice they had to name it twice”. Indeed it is one of the most charming cities in Germany. As Johannes Brahms, the famous German composer from the 1800’s said of the city of thermal springs and spas, “I've always been passionate about Baden-Baden." The virtues of the springs the Romans had already discovered when they ruled in that region at the beginning of the first millennium CE. This is where they first constructed the first bathhouses, where they planted the first vines which they brought with them from “the Boot Country”, the moniker for Italy.

It was here in the city where they planted the first vines brought with them from the “Boot Country” with which they built the first bathhouses. Riesling grapes were predominantly grown in the high-quality vineyards on the sun-drenched slopes.  After the Romans departed, the monasteries claimed the Riesling-growing vineyards in the area that is known as the most beautiful wine route called Rabland (see The Wine Route). Situated in one of the exciting geographical areas on the western side of the Black Forest, distinguished by year-round comfortable weather. Baden-Baden can be a great jumping-off point for many hiking treks, both for vacationers and serious hikers alike.  From Baden-Baden you have a choice and can take The Black Forest High Road (Schwarzwaldhochstraße) with incredible views along one of the oldest themed-drive in Germany, or go from the west toward the Alsace area in France, or via the German Wine Route. (The Wine-Route Trip Planner). Since the walking route is not long and is accessible for everyone, before we travel outside of Baden-Baden, we can wander around for a few hours visiting the picturesque city sites, including a must-visit to the famous Roman baths, the spa, the numerous hotels, treatment clinics, leisure facilities, of course the renowned casino and one of the most impressive buildings – the Trinkhalle, which was built in1839. The Trinkhalle is a 300-feet-long pump room and has 14 most stunning frescos portraying urban myths about Baden-Baden. When inside the Trinkhalle you can taste fresh water from the Friedrichsquelle. Visit the incredible Faberge Museum on the main boulevard. It houses a unique collection of pieces of art and jewelry by the Russian jeweler Peter Faberge who designed and created for the Imperial Court in Moscow at the end of the 19th century. The Karlsruhe/Baden Baden (FKB) Airport serves the region for domestic flights as well as international flights."

About Freiburg Im Breisgau

Freiburg im Breisgau is a university city in the Black Forest in southwest Germany. The name from the 14th century, comes from the German meaning “Free Town”. The Old City is “air-conditioned” by the Freiburg Bächle (water-filled channels, streamlets) fed by the Dreisam River which  rapidly  flow down the streets, making the Freiburg Bächle one of the city's best known landmarks. 

Freiburg im Breisgau is a university city in the Black Forest in southwest Germany. The name from the 14th century, comes from the German meaning “Free Town”. The Old City is “air-conditioned” by the Freiburg Bächle (water-filled channels, streamlets) fed by the Dreisam River which  rapidly  flow down the streets, making the Freiburg Bächle one of the city's best known landmarks. 

The Cathedral: They began building the Freiburg im Breisgau Cathedral (called the Freiburg Minster) at the beginning of the 13th century (Romanesque style) and completed the Cathedral Gothic style around 1230 with a 116-meter Gothic tower, which is a landmark and is considered by many experts as one of the most memorable and exclusive spires on this planet! As was the custom then, stonemasons were asked to add sculptures and gargoyles on the cathedral’s roof. If it is a chuckle you’re looking for then look up, way up and you will see the “mooning gargoyle” of Freiburg Minster. According to the legend that has been passed on over the decades, a resentful stonemason who wanted revenge for not getting his salary, created this grotesque and placed him so that water would be spilling onto the streets from the opposite end of his body facing the city council building. Note: Gargoyles were created as a means of making sure water did not collect on rooftops and would spill off through the gargoyle’s mouth onto the streets. Ahh – the bells of the Freiburg Minster! There are 16-19 bells on the tower including the “oldest bell” which weighs more than 3 tons. If you are feeling “athletic”, you can get to the top of the church for a magnificent view of the Old Town by going up 330 stairs.  Secret: The ringing of the bells are on specific days and times: Thursday evening; Friday at 11:00 am; Saturday evenings; on November 27- to commemorate the air raid of Freiburg on that day in 1944. The Historical Merchants' Hall (Historisches Kaufhaus) went through a few changes over the centuries, but today’s building is as it was back in the mid 1500’s - eye-catching with its bright reddish-brown  façade on the exterior and the opulent halls in the Merchants building, which are only open for special events. The most popular and famous is the Kaisersaal (Emperors' Hall). On the face of the building there are four statues of kings from the Habsburg house, with spires on each side, also draw your attention to the building. The halls are not open at all times, only when there are special events and the most popular one is the Kaisersaal (Emperors' Hall). Secret: The original statues are stored away for protection from the elements and the ones displayed on the walls are replicas. Once there were five –now there are two! We’re referring to the City Gates: The two medieval gates that survived are called the Martinstor and the Schwabentor. The latter is also a unique museum holding the Zinnfigurenklause (Tin Figure Cabinet) with about ten thousand small figures cast from tin in a setting of about 21 dioramas that tell the history of Baden and the area. When progress “reared its head”, there was need for more advance public transportation and the Martinstor Gate was to be removed in order to make room for an electric tram. The mayor of the time, Lord Mayor Otto Winterer of Freiburg, insisted on keeping it intact and actually built on top of it, thus tripling its height and eventually made a large opening for the tram to pass through.   The Rathausplatz is a lovely and charming square. The administrative center is located here, with the Old Town Hall and the New Town Hall next to it and the governing bodies housed in both buildings. There is a bridge which you can cross to get from one to the other. However, the New Town Hall is actually older than the Old Town Hall. Originally, the New Town Hall was not used as a Town Hall, so when they eventually decided to use this building as such, it became ‘the New Town Hall’!   A large fountain with a statue of Berthold Schwarz stands in front of the Town Halls. Who is Berthold Schwarz?  The Germans claimed he is an alchemist who invented gunpowder. However, according to our research, he probably never even existed and gunpowder was probably invented in China! Nevertheless, the Germans wanted to be known as the inventors of gunpowder, so they came up with this creative idea, perhaps because Schwarzpulver is German for gunpowder. So there it is and nobody seems to care! Muenstermarkt (The Farmers Market) – in the Old City, selling mostly flowers, produce and crafts. True to this day, the market is open daily except for Sunday and only in the mornings. Go, enjoy and buy! Alter Friedhof (Old Cemetery): This old cemetery from the 17th century is one of the oldest German cemeteries, preserved as a whole in a park-like atmosphere. There are fascinating, artistic and interesting tombstones of people from all types of lifestyles. Schlossberg Hill that is a part of the Black Forest just east of the Old Town is a wonderful area for small hikes and walks culminating with marvelous views for that “Kodak moment”.Moreover, you cannot leave Freiburg without eating the skinny, reddish-brownish, 35 cm long red sausage (Lange Rote Sausage) lovingly called by the locals “the Münsterplatzwurst, Queen of the Wurst”. Secret: If you don’t want to give yourself away as a tourist, do not fold the sausage in half. The locals eat their sausage with both ends hanging out of the roll! One more thing - don’t count your calories! Make sure you find time to relax in one of the lovely cafes and enjoy the famous Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) which is made up of layers of chocolate, cherries (and a little cherry liqueur)  with real, dairy whipped cream, decorated with chocolate shavings and cherries. Wicked!  Recipe available upon request. We cannot leave Freiburg without at least mentioning Europa-Park, which is second only to Disneyland in Paris. It is the biggest theme park in Germany, about 230 acres, and is about 40 km south-west of Freiburg Im Breisgau. You can imagine the wild and innovative rides and attractions you can find here! Besides all the attractions of an amusement park there is a fairly new water park known as Rulantica, a movie theatre and shows - entertainment for adults and children. One can also make arrangements for on-site transportation and accommodations, from five-star hotels to campgrounds.

About Fussen

Füssen is a town in Bavaria, Germany. The town is known for its violinmaking industry. Attractions in Fussen: The High Castle houses a branch gallery of the Bavarian State Collections of Paintings, which focuses on late Gothic and Renaissance works of art. The oldest fresco in Germany can be found in the crypt of St Mang's Basilica, It dates back to about the year 980. St Mang's Feast Day (6 September) is commemorated with a Holy Mass followed by a procession by torchlight through the old part of the city. During the week of the Saint's Feast a special 'Magnus Wine' is sold, with only 500 bottles produced.

Füssen is a town in Bavaria, Germany. The town is known for its violinmaking industry. Attractions in Fussen: The High Castle houses a branch gallery of the Bavarian State Collections of Paintings, which focuses on late Gothic and Renaissance works of art. The oldest fresco in Germany can be found in the crypt of St Mang's Basilica, It dates back to about the year 980. St Mang's Feast Day (6 September) is commemorated with a Holy Mass followed by a procession by torchlight through the old part of the city. During the week of the Saint's Feast a special 'Magnus Wine' is sold, with only 500 bottles produced.

About Munich

Munich is the capital and largest city of the German state of Bavaria. It is located on the River Isar north of the Bavarian Alps. Munich is home to many national and international authorities, major universities, major museums and theaters. Its numerous architectural attractions, international sports events, exhibitions, conferences and Oktoberfest attract considerable tourism. Since 2006, the city's motto has been "Munich loves you".

Munich is the capital and largest city of the German state of Bavaria. It is located on the River Isar north of the Bavarian Alps. Munich is home to many national and international authorities, major universities, major museums and theaters. Its numerous architectural attractions, international sports events, exhibitions, conferences and Oktoberfest attract considerable tourism. Since 2006, the city's motto has been "Munich loves you".