The Model for Nazi Concentration Camps

Opened in 1933 primarily for political prisoners, Dachau was converted into a concentration camp as the war progressed, where some 41,000 prisoners were murdered. Those that survived were put through a living nightmare in this ‘school of violence’ for its SS operators. The permanent exhibition, opened in 2003, follows the ‘path of the prisoners’ from their arrival through to death or liberation by Allied troops. First-hand accounts and drawings made by the prisoners, along with their biographies, provide a disturbing insight into existence at Dachau. The open-air exhibition at the SS shooting range, while commemorating the victims, also offers detailed information on the historical background to the crimes committed there. The ‘plantation’ can also be visited, this was the herb garden where prisoners were brutally set to work growing and tending – with horrible irony – medicinal plants and herbs. A very potent memorial is that to the ‘death marches,’ sculpted by Hubertus von Pilgrim, commemorating all those who died when the camp was evacuated as Allied liberation approached.

A city of innovation

Located on the banks of the Danube River, the fortified city of Ingolstadt presents visitors with an exciting mix of past and present. Mary Shelley chose Ingolstadt as the setting for her novel Frankenstein and the Frankenstein themed tour of the Old Town is always popular with tourists. In contrast, this innovation guided city is home to the Audi Forum Ingolstadt, which is visited by over 500,000 people each year.

The Audi manufacturing plant has factory tours available while the Audi Museum is a must-see for car enthusiasts, where a vast range of modern, classic, and vintage automobiles are on display. Both visitor experiences offer the best of German technology, design and innovation. If that’s not your cup of tea, then Ingolstadt provides the perfect opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy with its small, sophisticated privately-owned shops and boutiques set in the bustling and lively Old Town.

A Taste of History

Dating back to pre-Roman times, Regensburg was one of the most important cities in the region for centuries, sitting on key trade routes, and serving as the starting point of Christianization of the Czechs. Reminders of the city’s medieval golden days abound in the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Covering nearly 200 hectares and 1500 buildings, the historic city center is reached by crossing the 13th century stone bridge that made Regensburg wealthy. Near the foot of the bridge you’ll find one of the city’s most unassuming but important landmarks: the Sausage Kitchen, which has been serving its signature wursts and mustard since 1146. Nearby, St. Peter’s Cathedral is considered the premier Gothic monument in Bavaria, famed for both its architecture and the heavenly voices of its Boys’ Choir.

Meander through the picturesque Old Town for a few minutes, and you’ll reach the Thurn und Taxis Castle. A 13th century Benedictine monastery that was converted into a residential palace, it’s bigger than Buckingham Palace, and offers a unique blend of architectural styles, such as the 11th century Basilica with a lavish Rococo makeover.

Home to the world’s smallest hotel

Come and see what makes Amberg a great place to stop by. Many visitors begin at what is considered to be the symbol of the city — the famous sixteenth-century Stadtbrille gateway where the semi-circular arches cast reflections on the river to form the illusion of a pair of spectacles. Moving into the medieval town, many visitors head for the Marktplatz (the main square) where the Gothic town hall stands alongside colorful buildings. It is not unusual on a warm day to find both residents and tourists sat out in the square enjoying the sun.

This small town, rich in culture and tradition has much to offer, with its large number of churches — many of which have been restored — a fascinating sculpture trail, the town walls and gates and of course, the world’s smallest hotel where it is said that couples spending their wedding night will live happily ever after and never divorce.

• 6:00 pm – Check-in at Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nürnberg

Executive Suite, 1 King with breakfast

With a private driver-guide just for your group, you can learn about Nuremberg’s World War II history and see the sights more conveniently. This half-day tour includes round-trip transportation from your Nuremberg hotel as well as visits to three historical sites: the Reichsparteigelande and the Zeppelinfeld at the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, as well as the Nuremberg Palace of Justice, which is famous for Courtroom 600.

Meet your guide in the lobby of your hotel and take to the streets of Nuremberg, a once  powerful imperial city and a center of economic activity. The prosperous city provided the ideal foundation for cultural and intellectual life. Even today numerous buildings and monuments reflect its former place within the Holy Roman Empire. 

Who exactly was Sigena? Who are the little men in red who appear on the front of the clock of Our Lady’s Church at noon? How did obscure Nuremberg become the third largest city in the German empire? These questions, and many more, will be answered during this tour which offers a journey through Nuremberg’s rise to greatness, providing historical background and insights in a fun and informative format.  

• 1:00 pm – Rest of day on your own.