Self-Guided & Independent Germany Tours & Trip Packages

Self-Guided & Independent Germany Tours & Trips

1,124 Self-Guided & Independent trips. Tours from 248 tour companies. 1,259 reviews. 4.6/5 avg rating.

89 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Germany
European Highlights (Paris, Winter, Base)
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By Trafalgar
preferred
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their travelers enjoy 24/7 travel expertise and dedicated service throughout the trips - everything is taken care of.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"Our tour guide, Caroline, was really really good. She was very informative and took good care of us. The trip itself was fabulous… They filled each day with lots of exciting things to do and see. I loved the smaller towns like Bruges and Ghent. I loved seeing the windmills and I specially loved the tulips… The tulips were absolutely spectacular. Each place we visited was filled with so much history and the architecture of the buildings was amazing. I really enjoyed this trip and highly recommend it."

Trip dates & details
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European Rhapsody (London, 1, Summer, Small Groups)
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4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
They really care about everyone's individual needs on each tour and they have an incredible attention to detail.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • London: Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.
  • Amsterdam: Cruise along the old waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
  • Wurzburg: Stand on the statue-lined Alte Mainbrucke and see the Marienburg fortress.
  • Wurzburg: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Würzburg Residence.
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber isthe best-preserved medieval town in Germany and a truly enchanting destination. Step back in time and explore the city walls, towers, and gates around the old town as well as the old town itself.
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Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"I’ve traveled with several other tour companies post Covid. This one ranked as among the best primarily because the tour director was great; knowledgeable, outgoing, and made an attempt to help the group to become cohesive. I also liked the itinerary, seeing as much of Portugal as possible without lengthy bus time. Beautiful hotels. Good stops, good group meals."

Trip dates & details
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European Rhapsody (London, 1, Summer, Classic)
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
They really care about everyone's individual needs on each tour and they have an incredible attention to detail.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • London: Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.
  • Amsterdam: Cruise along the old waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
  • Wurzburg: Stand on the statue-lined Alte Mainbrucke and see the Marienburg fortress.
  • Wurzburg: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Würzburg Residence.
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber isthe best-preserved medieval town in Germany and a truly enchanting destination. Step back in time and explore the city walls, towers, and gates around the old town as well as the old town itself.
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"I’ve traveled with several other tour companies post Covid. This one ranked as among the best primarily because the tour director was great; knowledgeable, outgoing, and made an attempt to help the group to become cohesive. I also liked the itinerary, seeing as much of Portugal as possible without lengthy bus time. Beautiful hotels. Good stops, good group meals."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
European Rhapsody (Amsterdam, Summer, Small Groups)
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
They really care about everyone's individual needs on each tour and they have an incredible attention to detail.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Amsterdam: Cruise along the old waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
  • Wurzburg: Stand on the statue-lined Alte Mainbrucke and see the Marienburg fortress.
  • Wurzburg: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Würzburg Residence.
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber isthe best-preserved medieval town in Germany and a truly enchanting destination. Step back in time and explore the city walls, towers, and gates around the old town as well as the old town itself.
  • Prague: Stroll through the Jewish Quarter with your Local Expert to hear how the Jewish community has shaped the history of Prague, and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry.
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"I’ve traveled with several other tour companies post Covid. This one ranked as among the best primarily because the tour director was great; knowledgeable, outgoing, and made an attempt to help the group to become cohesive. I also liked the itinerary, seeing as much of Portugal as possible without lengthy bus time. Beautiful hotels. Good stops, good group meals."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Traditional Europe (Paris)
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By Trafalgar
preferred
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their travelers enjoy 24/7 travel expertise and dedicated service throughout the trips - everything is taken care of.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Cologne Cathedral: The towering Cathedral of Cologne is an impressive introduction to this riverside city.
  • Rhineland: Cruise beneath the semi-ruined castles and terraced vineyards. Sleepy villages slip by as you saunter upstream to the Lorelei Rock where the enchantress lured sailors to their doom.
  • Heidelberg: See the magnificent castle built in red sandstone, overlooking the Student Prince’s town.
  • Colmar: Stroll through the medieval streets of Colmar on a sightseeing orientation with your Travel Director.
  • Lucerne: During an orientation with your Travel Director, see the Lion Monument, Old Town Hall and Chapel Bridge, the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe.
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Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"Our tour guide, Caroline, was really really good. She was very informative and took good care of us. The trip itself was fabulous… They filled each day with lots of exciting things to do and see. I loved the smaller towns like Bruges and Ghent. I loved seeing the windmills and I specially loved the tulips… The tulips were absolutely spectacular. Each place we visited was filled with so much history and the architecture of the buildings was amazing. I really enjoyed this trip and highly recommend it."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Romantic European (None, Amsterdam, Paris, Summer, Small Groups)
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
They really care about everyone's individual needs on each tour and they have an incredible attention to detail.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Amsterdam: Cruise along the old waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
  • Wurzburg: Stand on the statue-lined Alte Mainbrucke and see the Marienburg fortress.
  • Wurzburg: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Würzburg Residence.
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber isthe best-preserved medieval town in Germany and a truly enchanting destination. Step back in time and explore the city walls, towers, and gates around the old town as well as the old town itself.
  • Prague: Stroll through the Jewish Quarter with your Local Expert to hear how the Jewish community has shaped the history of Prague, and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry.
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"I’ve traveled with several other tour companies post Covid. This one ranked as among the best primarily because the tour director was great; knowledgeable, outgoing, and made an attempt to help the group to become cohesive. I also liked the itinerary, seeing as much of Portugal as possible without lengthy bus time. Beautiful hotels. Good stops, good group meals."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
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European Grandeur (Paris, Amsterdam, Summer, Small Groups)
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
They really care about everyone's individual needs on each tour and they have an incredible attention to detail.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Paris: We walk up and down the "quartier" and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theaters, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighborhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc's spectacular jardin vertical 'oasis d'Aboukir', the Napoleonic "Egyptian" district etc.
  • Chateau Chenonceau: Visit the majestic Château de Chenonceau, known as the 'Ladies' Château' it perfectly embodies the elegance of 16th century design in the Loire Valley.
  • Bordeaux: Your Local Expert will show you the quayside facades, Grand Theater, Triangle d'Or and magnificent Esplanade des Quinconces.
  • San Sebastián: Led by your Local Expert, enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter including Plaza de la Constitucion.
  • Madrid: See the highlights of the city with your Local Expert. Visit the Old Town, traveling along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, past the fountain in the Plaza de Cibeles, the Cervantes Monument and Royal Palace, before crossing the Puerta del Sol.
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"I’ve traveled with several other tour companies post Covid. This one ranked as among the best primarily because the tour director was great; knowledgeable, outgoing, and made an attempt to help the group to become cohesive. I also liked the itinerary, seeing as much of Portugal as possible without lengthy bus time. Beautiful hotels. Good stops, good group meals."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
European Discovery (London, Paris, 1, Eurostar, Summer, Classic)
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
They really care about everyone's individual needs on each tour and they have an incredible attention to detail.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • London: Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.
  • Amsterdam: Cruise along the old waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
  • Wurzburg: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Würzburg Residence.
  • Wurzburg: Stand on the statue-lined Alte Mainbrucke and see the Marienburg fortress.
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber isthe best-preserved medieval town in Germany and a truly enchanting destination. Step back in time and explore the city walls, towers, and gates around the old town as well as the old town itself.
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"I’ve traveled with several other tour companies post Covid. This one ranked as among the best primarily because the tour director was great; knowledgeable, outgoing, and made an attempt to help the group to become cohesive. I also liked the itinerary, seeing as much of Portugal as possible without lengthy bus time. Beautiful hotels. Good stops, good group meals."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
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89 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Germany

Self-Guided & Independent Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
1,259  Reviews
See all Self-Guided & Independent tour reviews
Excellent
218
Great
49
Average
7
Disappointing
2
Terrible
3
G

Gordon & laurel

Jan 2023

Written on

Thank you again for your good work making our trip so wonderful !

The roadbook notes were generally excellent! The Fort De Buoux was fascinating. Should not be missed but needs at least 1 hour for planning purposes. The recommende...

D

David & Frances

Jan 2023

Written on

The actual walks were all terrific and we enjoyed them very much, and all the accommodations were excellent too

We loved the trip and only have good things to say about the experience. The only thing we might have changed would be to have put a rest day in the middle of the it...

C

Cheryl & Michael

Jan 2023

Written on

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip. The hikes were fantastic, the route notes very accurate

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip. The hikes were fantastic, the route notes very accurate (we only were confused one time and missed a turn but it didn't take long to ...

B

Beth & Frederick

Jan 2023

Written on

We enjoyed the scenery, all hotels except in Avignon, the food, and the people we met

We enjoyed the scenery, all hotels except in Avignon, the food, and the people we met. Yes, I would travel again with your company and would recommend to friends. Th...

J

Jayne & patricia

Jan 2023

Written on

Everything was so beautiful yet varied. It’s hard to single out a highlight : so many !!

Everything was so beautiful yet varied. It’s hard to single out a highlight : so many !! We are planning to do our next walking tour in Portugal with Intura Travel, ...

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Self-Guided & Independent Tour Selection Trips

A self-guided or independent tour offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, but it's essential to keep a few key tips in mind:
  • Research your destination thoroughly before your trip.
  • Plan a rough itinerary to maximize your time.
  • Pack light to ease mobility and navigation.
  • Stay connected with reliable communication tools.
  • Prioritize safety and security throughout your journey.
  • Embrace local transportation for an authentic experience.
  • Keep important documents organized and accessible.
  • Learn basic phrases in the local language for convenience.
  • Always carry a water bottle and stay hydrated.
  • Budget wisely to avoid overspending during your trip.
  • Stay open-minded and embrace unexpected adventures along the way.
 

Additional details

Who Will Enjoy Self guided & Independent Tours?

Self guided and independent travel is great for anyone that wants to see the world on their own time, at their own pace and completely tailored to their personal interests. These travelers enjoy working with a tour operator to create a plan, book accommodations and check all the boxes for their perfect trip. They aren’t scared of being alone in a new place but embrace the adventure and responsibility of getting from point A to point B.

This type of travel is great for an independent individual. They enjoy exploring, experiencing and seeing. Traveling with a group is great, but adventuring in a new place with only yourself brings the immersion and freedom to a new level. 

Independent travel isn’t just for the adventure traveler who loves backpacking and adrenaline highs. It’s for any traveler that wants to see the world and experience all the sights, culture and people. It may take a level of boldness to go alone and be entirely responsible for getting to each destination and activity as well as catching flights and trains. However, any traveler, no matter the style whether its luxury, nature, sightseeing or active can be an independent traveler.

Self Guided & Independent Tours Commonly Combined with Budget Travel

Independent travel is often associated with budget travel. This is because when traveling alone, the price for a trip as well as accommodations will be cheaper and easier to book than when traveling with a group.

Self guided and independent travel is great for the budget traveler because when traveling alone, you can decide where the money goes. You can work with a tour operator to include all the things you want but also exclude all the things you don’t want.

Traveling for cheaper will allow you to travel for longer. Instead of traveling for a week with a group it can turn into three weeks alone. While budget travel isn’t for everyone due to the cheaper food, accommodations and transportation, it can be exciting for the independent traveler.

Budget travel is a great way for travelers to unearth hidden gems of an area. This could include finding the best tasting food at a street stall, making great cultural connections through a homestay or making new friends when staying in a hostel.

Staying Safe

It is always important to remember safety when traveling, especially if you are traveling alone. One challenge when traveling alone is not having anyone else there if something does go wrong. However, there are things travelers can do to ensure safety.

Make sure to have back up plans in case your set itinerary falls through or you miss transportation. It’s also a good idea to know where local authorities are if you find yourself in an unfortunate situation or need help when out exploring or doing activities such as hiking or cycling.

Travelers shouldn’t be afraid to go on self guided and independent tours, but it’s always a good idea to be more prepared than less. It’s important to do research both on the destination but all planned accommodations and places that you plan on visiting.

How to Prepare for Self Guided & Independent Travel

One of the most important things to remember about self-guided travel is that you will be on your own. This means that there are important steps you should take when preparing to explore the world independently.

Research:Whether it’s where to go, which hotel to stay in or what to do while you’re there, research is key when it comes to traveling independently. Research is an important part of creating your dream trip because it will ensure you’re including the right destinations and activities that are right for your travel style.

Work with a Tour Operator:When crafting your trip, working with a tour operator is a great way to take the stress off your shoulders. Self guided tours can be pre-planned or custom depending on the tour operator. Depending on how hands on you want to be for the creation of the itinerary you can either choose to decide each thing that is included or allow someone else to do the heavy lifting so you can simply focus on experiencing.

Traveling independently is often related with budget travel. Working with a set budget may deter travelers from working with a tour operator especially when traveling alone because they fear it will be too expensive. However, tour operators often have the key knowledge and understanding of travel to get you the best experience for the best price. It can also save you time and stress.

Pack appropriately:It is essential that you plan appropriately when going on a self guided or independent tour. Often, you will be alone whether exploring, traveling or finding your accommodations. This means that you are responsible for where you’ll go and what you’ll see which also means you should pack according to your personal plan.

If you’re going hikingdon’t forget your gear and hiking boots. If you know you’ll be doing a lot of walking, you’ll want to pack comfortable shoes that won’t hurt your feet after a long day. Depending on what you intend on doing, make sure to not only pack appropriately but bring extras or precautionary items in case things don’t go as planned.

Top Considerations

When traveling independently there’s a lot of factors to keep in consideration. There’s a lot that goes into planning a trip and when you’re crafting a self guided tour there’s a lot of decisions that need to be made.

Right Company: One of the most important considerations when planning a self-guided tour is picking the right tour company. Many of the major companies provide itineraries for solo tours or book your hotels or dinners. However, if you are looking for a particular destination or activities, picking the right tour agency can be extremely important.

Best Location:Not every country is ideal for self-guided tours and some countries may not match well with your travel style. Selecting the best location for your self-guided tour can not only lead to an amazing adventure, but will keep you safe as you travel.

Pre-Bookings: With selecting the right travel agency to help you plan your self-guided tour, it’s important to note how much help the agency can provide. Do they book your hotels and meals, only your transportation, or do they create a simple itinerary? If you are unsure about your travels or need a little more guidance, make sure the agency you use provides the additional services you want.

Always Find the Best

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