Incredible German City Breaks Combined With Stunning Natural Landscapes
From the vibrant streets of Berlin to the romantic charm of Heidelberg, Germany’s cities are bursting with culture, history, and world-class cuisine. But the adventure doesn’t stop there. With one of Europe’s most efficient and scenic rail networks, it’s easier than ever to explore beyond the city limits.
Sip your way through sun-drenched vineyards along the Rhine, wander the fairy-tale grounds of hilltop castles, or lose yourself in the beauty of the Bavarian Alps — all just a train ride away. Germany offers the perfect blend of urban excitement and natural serenity, all connected with smooth, sustainable travel.
Ready to experience it all? Let’s ride.
Find Your Perfect German Nature Trail By Rail
Discover incredible nature escapes to combine with cultural city break with our brand new interactive map.
The only question left is who will you be taking along for the ride?
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Top City Break Offers
4* Berlin City Break
City breaks to Berlin are a real mix of culture and fun – you can spend your days perusing museums and admiring street art, and dive into the city’s lively party scene come sunset. Use the interactive map above to find the nature parks and castles easily visited during a your Berlin city break.
2 Nights Bed & Breakfast
From £149pp
Including flights
Operated by lastminute
- Barnim Nature Park (20mins by train)
- Westhavelland Nature Park (45mins by train)
- UNESCO Elbe Riverside Biosphere Reserve (1hr 20mins by train)
- Hoher Fläming Nature Park (55mins by train)
5* Munich City Break
Munich was made famous by Oktoberfest, but there’s even more to discover than the legendary beer gardens. Ornate palaces, ground-breaking art and vast green spaces all happily co-exist here, and the distinctly Alpine flavour of the city is unique to Munich.
2 Nights Bed & Breakfast
From £189pp
Including flights
Operated by Expedia
- Commence your Route 66 adventure with three nights in Chicago, soaking up city views from Willis Tower and indulging in deep-dish pizza
- Explore Chicago’s ‘Magnificent Mile’, with stops at Navy Pier, Wrigley Field, and 360 Chicago’s observation deck
- Begin your road trip by picking up your car and heading to Jackson Blvd – the official starting point of historic Route 66
- In Illinois, stop in Pontiac for Route 66 nostalgia and visit the restored Standard Oil Gas Station in Odell
- History lovers will enjoy Springfield, IL, where you can tour Abraham Lincoln’s home, tomb, and presidential museum
- Cross into Missouri and admire St. Louis landmarks like the Gateway Arch, Missouri Botanical Gardens and Citygarden
- Tour the impressive Meramec Caverns in the Ozarks – a favourite Missouri Route 66 detour with guided cave tours
- Explore Springfield, Missouri, officially recognised as the birthplace of Route 66 and full of roadside charm
- Stop off in Joplin, Missouri before dipping briefly into Kansas and continuing on to Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Discover the quirky Cadillac Ranch in Texas, explore museums in Santa Rosa, and end the day in Albuquerque or Santa Fe
- Wrap up your epic road trip at Santa Monica Pier in California, snapping a photo by the “End of Trail” sign and enjoying Pacific views
4* Hamburg City Break
Hamburg has achieved a rare feat – successfully reimagining its industrial harbour past into a sleek yet authentic destination, ripe for exploration. The streets of St Pauli and vast Speiccherstadt warehouse district are a perfect example of old meeting new.
2 Nights Bed & Breakfast
From £139pp
Including flights
Operated by Love Holidays
- Commence your Route 66 adventure with three nights in Chicago, soaking up city views from Willis Tower and indulging in deep-dish pizza
- Explore Chicago’s ‘Magnificent Mile’, with stops at Navy Pier, Wrigley Field, and 360 Chicago’s observation deck
- Begin your road trip by picking up your car and heading to Jackson Blvd – the official starting point of historic Route 66
- In Illinois, stop in Pontiac for Route 66 nostalgia and visit the restored Standard Oil Gas Station in Odell
- History lovers will enjoy Springfield, IL, where you can tour Abraham Lincoln’s home, tomb, and presidential museum
- Cross into Missouri and admire St. Louis landmarks like the Gateway Arch, Missouri Botanical Gardens and Citygarden
- Tour the impressive Meramec Caverns in the Ozarks – a favourite Missouri Route 66 detour with guided cave tours
- Explore Springfield, Missouri, officially recognised as the birthplace of Route 66 and full of roadside charm
- Stop off in Joplin, Missouri before dipping briefly into Kansas and continuing on to Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Discover the quirky Cadillac Ranch in Texas, explore museums in Santa Rosa, and end the day in Albuquerque or Santa Fe
- Wrap up your epic road trip at Santa Monica Pier in California, snapping a photo by the “End of Trail” sign and enjoying Pacific views
Why is rail travel the perfect option
Rail travel in Germany offers a seamless and stress-free way to embark on incredible day trips from major cities. With an extensive and punctual rail network, travellers can easily reach charming towns, historic castles, scenic countryside, or lakeside resorts in under an hour or two. Whether departing from Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, or Cologne, frequent regional trains connect cities to surrounding natural and cultural attractions without the need for a car. The comfort of onboard amenities, spacious seating, and scenic window views make the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.
For those looking to explore sustainably, rail travel is also an environmentally friendly alternative to driving. Rail stations are typically located in the heart of towns and cities, allowing travellers to step off the train and walk straight into vibrant local life, markets, or hiking trails. The convenience, affordability, and eco-conscious appeal make Germany’s rail system an ideal choice for flexible and enriching day trips.
Find Your Adventure in Missouri
There’s a wealth of experiences in store for you to uncover when you visit Missouri. We’ve selected what we think you’ll love most.
Iconic Route 66
Music
Missouri has a deep musical heritage, particularly in jazz and blues, which travelled up the Mississippi River from New Orleans. St. Louis is primarily known for blues while Kansas City is a legendary jazz hub, with the vibrant music scene rooted in iconic clubs and venues like the Blue Room and the Cotton Club. The National Blues Museum in St. Louis honours the genre’s rich history, while Kansas City’s 18th and Vine District is a must-visit for jazz lovers. Missouri’s blues and jazz continue to influence modern music, preserving its significant place in America’s cultural soundscape.
State Parks
Missouri’s state parks offer diverse landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, home to Missouri’s highest peak, provides stunning views and challenging hiking trails. For water lovers, Lake of the Ozarks State Park offers boating and fishing, while Ha Ha Tonka State Park showcases dramatic natural bridges and castles. From the tranquil Ozarks to the scenic River Bluffs, Missouri’s state parks are perfect for hiking, camping, and immersing yourself in the state’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Food & Drink
Missouri is a haven for food lovers, known for its mouthwatering BBQ and vibrant wine country. Kansas City-style BBQ, with its signature sweet and tangy sauce, is a must-try, offering everything from ribs to burnt ends. In the rolling hills of the Missouri River Valley, the state’s wine country shines with over 120 wineries, particularly in Hermann. Sample rich local varietals while enjoying picturesque vineyard views. Whether it’s smoky BBQ or fine wine, Missouri delivers unforgettable flavours.
Historic Sites
The Mark Twain Home
The Mark Twain Home in Hannibal, Missouri, offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the famous author. Located in the town where Twain grew up, the restored 1840s home provides insight into his early years and the experiences that inspired The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Visitors can explore the house, museum exhibits, and the surrounding area, including landmarks from Twain’s stories. It’s a must-visit destination for fans of American literature, history, and timeless storytelling.
The Gateway Arch
The St. Louis Gateway Arch stands as an iconic symbol of America’s westward expansion. Soaring 630 feet above the city, it’s the tallest man-made monument in the U.S. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top for panoramic views of the Mississippi River, the city, and beyond. The Arch is part of Gateway Arch National Park, where the Museum of Westward Expansion delves into the history of the pioneers. Also on the park grounds is the Old Federal Courthouse, where Dred and Harriet Scott petitioned for their freedom – an early and pivotal moment in civil rights history. It’s a must-see landmark celebrating America’s journey into the frontier and its complex, evolving story.
Mississippi River
The Mississippi River, flowing along Missouri’s eastern border, is a vital waterway rich in history and natural beauty. Missouri’s river towns, like St. Louis and Hannibal, are steeped in heritage, offering scenic riverboat cruises and opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The river also played a key role in America’s westward expansion and is celebrated in Mark Twain’s works. Missouri’s Mississippi River offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and tranquil waterside charm for visitors year-round.
Find Your Perfect Place in Missouri
There’s a wealth of experiences in store for you to uncover when you explore Missouri. We’ve selected the locations we think you’ll love most in each of its geographical regions.
Kansas City & The Northwest
St Louis & The Northeast
St. Louis and Missouri’s Northeast region blend cultural richness with scenic charm. Start at Gateway Arch National Park, then cruise the Mississippi on a classic riverboat. Music lovers can dive into the National Blues Museum and catch live shows across the city. St. Louis also dazzles with Forest Park, the Missouri History Museum, and the stunning Cathedral Basilica. Along Route 66, explore vintage Americana at the Neon Museum and the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. Venture west to Hermann, home to around ten of the state’s 120 wineries, perfect for tastings and vineyard views. In Hannibal, discover Mark Twain’s boyhood home and explore nearby state parks for hiking, heritage, and riverside relaxation. For a dose of Wild West history, head to St. Joseph – birthplace of the Pony Express and final home of outlaw Jesse James, whose story adds a thrilling edge to this region’s historic appeal.
Central Missouri
Southwest Missouri
Southwest Missouri blends outdoor beauty with vibrant cities and classic Americana charm. In Springfield, the “City of the Ozarks” and birthplace of Route 66, explore the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, stroll through Springfield Botanical Gardens, or enjoy downtown’s shops, restaurants, and buzzing nightlife. Just south, Branson offers lakeside escapes perfect for fishing, boating, and golfing, with lush nature reserves nearby. Known for its live entertainment, Branson’s theatres and attractions bring energy to the Ozarks’ natural tranquility.
Southeast Missouri
Southeast Missouri is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Paddle through the crystal-clear waters of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways by kayak or raft, or lace up your boots to explore miles of serene hiking trails. Discover charming wineries nestled in rolling hills, offering tastings with a view. Visit Ste. Genevieve, Missouri’s oldest European settlement, where the park and museum reveal a rich French colonial past. For something unexpected, the Space Museum in Bonne Terre adds a cosmic twist to your journey.
Confessions of a Globetrotter Blog:
Discover The Spirit Of Missouri: From Route 66 Legends To Riverfront Charms
Step into the diverse heart of Missouri, where natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture come together. From the rolling Ozark hills to the bustling streets of St. Louis, Missouri offers a captivating mix of state parks, scenic trails, and historic sites. Discover the charm of small towns along the mighty Mississippi River, explore the state’s outdoor treasures, and immerse yourself in the history that shaped this iconic Midwestern state…
Visiting Missouri Throughout the Year
- Experience the refreshing Missouri spring as the weather begins to warm, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C. Cast a line during trout fishing season or enjoy bird watching in state parks alive with migrating species. As April arrives, so does the buzz of baseball season, with major league games kicking off in St. Louis and Kansas City. With blooming landscapes, scenic drives, and outdoor events across the state, spring in Missouri is the perfect time to embrace nature and celebrate America’s favourite pastime
- Experience the warmth and energy of a Missouri summer, with temperatures typically ranging from 25–33°C. Long, sunny days are perfect for exploring the Lake of the Ozarks, hiking shaded trails in scenic state parks, or enjoying outdoor concerts and food festivals. July brings a highlight on the calendar – National Tom Sawyer Days in Hannibal, celebrating Mark Twain’s legacy with parades, raft races, and whitewashing contests. Another seasonal favourite is the Missouri State Fair, where tradition, agriculture, and entertainment come together in a lively celebration. From vibrant cities to tranquil rivers, summer in Missouri is all about adventure, nostalgia, and good old-fashioned fun
- Experience the beauty of autumn in Missouri as temperatures cool to a comfortable range of 10-20°C. The state’s forests and rolling hills burst into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold – perfect for scenic drives, hiking, and photography in places like the Ozark Mountains or Katy Trail. It’s also harvest season, making it an ideal time to explore Missouri’s wine country and attend fall festivals across the state.
- Winter in Missouri brings a festive charm, with temperatures ranging from 0-10°C. The holiday season is a special time, as towns across the state light up with sparkling displays and festive decorations. Explore Missouri’s Christmas markets, like those in St. Louis and Kansas City, offering unique gifts, treats, and seasonal cheer. Cosy up with local wines in charming wineries, or enjoy ice skating in city parks.