Reuniting With My Brother in Germany
Continuing my European adventure, I journeyed from Belgium to meet my brother at the Munich Airport, where we embarked on an exploration of captivating German cities.
Our first stop was Nuremberg, a picturesque city adorned with cobbled streets, a rich culinary scene, and quintessential German charm.
Exploring Medieval Nuremberg
Strolling through the city’s streets, we marveled at the well-preserved half-timbered buildings that lined our path.
The magnificent Imperial Castle Nuremberg stood atop the city, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the medieval era.
As we explored further, we encountered the thought-provoking Ehekarussell Fountain, a somber representation of the journey of a troubled marriage from dating to death.
Hauptmarkt enchanted us with its historic setting and vibrant atmosphere.
We paused to savor the historical surroundings and enjoy delightful meals at Restaurant Burgwächter and Hausbrauerei Altstadthof, where we sat overlooking Albrecht-Dürer-Platz.
Nuremberg’s Difficult History
Nuremberg carries profound historical significance, evident in its attractions.
We had the opportunity to visit the Nuremberg Trials permanent exhibition, offering a profound insight into this pivotal event in history.
Additionally, we explored the Nazi parade grounds and the Nazi Party Rally Grounds Museum, delving into the rise and aftermath of the Nazi Party and the renowned Courtroom 600.
These experiences shed light on the complexities of the past and highlighted the importance of understanding history.
All-You-Can-Eat Sushi in Nuremberg
While in Nuremberg, we chanced upon an all-you-can-eat sushi go-round restaurant and decided to check it out.
Warm items were on one level and cold items on the other. All the items passed by on a conveyor, and when you saw something you liked, you simply opened the door and helped yourself.
It was a fun and tasty way to try all kinds of good sushi items!
Cologne, Music and a Crazy Mosh Pit
My brother’s passion for music led us to attend a Red Fang concert in Cologne, Germany, a band he avidly follows from the US.
As the music blared and the energy surged through the crowd, we found ourselves on the cusp of a crazy German mosh pit.
It was an unforgettable experience, embracing the universal language of music and sharing the electric atmosphere with fellow fans. After the show, my brother even got to meet the band.
Discovering Cologne
From Nuremberg, we ventured to Cologne, a city that delighted us with its awe-inspiring architecture.
We embarked on leisurely walks, captivated by the stunning Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its towering spires.
As we meandered through the city, we stumbled upon a charming “green house,” adding a touch of whimsy to our explorations.
Each step revealed new surprises, showcasing Cologne’s vibrant atmosphere and cultural heritage.
Scenic Rail Travel to Frankfurt
Our journey next took us to Frankfurt, where I introduced my brother to the city famous for its sausages.
Our train passed directly through the Upper Middle Rhine Valley (Oberes Mittelrheintal), which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers one of the most scenic train rides in all of Europe.
After arriving in Frankfurt and walking the bridge across the Main River, we discovered the enchanting “locks of love” on the iconic bridge, symbolizing everlasting relationships.
Frankfurt’s diverse culinary scene tempted us with a variety of gastronomic delights, further enhancing our appreciation for German cuisine.
Germany by Eurail
Throughout our German escapade, we relied on the convenience and charm of rail travel.
I have twice had the pleasure of having a 90-day Eurail Pass, a first-class ticket providing access to trains in 22 European countries.
This pass proved to be an excellent value, allowing us to explore the continent’s diverse landscapes comfortably.
From picturesque German railways to vibrant train stations, each journey was accompanied by unique experiences, making our rail adventures even more memorable.
A German Adventure to Remember
As we traversed the captivating cities of Nuremberg, Cologne, and Frankfurt, we witnessed the rich history, architectural wonders, and culinary delights that define Germany’s cultural tapestry.
From Nuremberg’s medieval charm to Cologne’s breathtaking Cathedral and Frankfurt’s sausage legacy, each destination left an indelible mark on our journey.
Exploring Germany by rail with the Eurail Pass provided us with the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the country’s diverse landscapes while enjoying the comforts of first-class travel.
Embark on your own adventure to experience the magic that awaits in these enchanting German cities.
Where We Stayed:
Nuremberg – Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nuremberg
This hotel I stayed in during a previous visit through Nuremberg.
The hotel has an interesting history dating back to 1896, when the building was transformed from a farmhouse and hops storehouse into a hotel. Today, it combines that historic character with modern amenities. The property features elegant Art Nouveau-style marble bathrooms, a fitness and wellness area, and its location was especially convenient for us because we were traveling throughout Germany by train.
Nuremberg – The NH Collection Nürnberg City
In Nuremberg, we stayed at The NH Collection Nürnberg City , located very close to the main train station and within walking distance of the old city, museums, shops, and Imperial Castle.
This was a modern four-star hotel conveniently located just a few minutes’ walk from both the train station and the historic Old Town. The hotel features comfortable, contemporary rooms, an on-site restaurant serving regional German specialties, and a fitness center with a sauna. One interesting touch is a colorful exhibition dedicated to Nuremberg’s long history of toy-making, displayed on the hotel’s ground floor. With its combination of convenience, comfort, and local character, it’s a good choice for travelers wanting to explore Nuremberg without spending their time getting around town.
Cologne – Courtyard by Marriott Cologne
In Cologne, we stayed at the Courtyard by Marriott Cologne, located in the Eigelstein neighborhood and within easy reach of Cologne Cathedral and other major attractions.
The hotel offered modern rooms, a restaurant and bar, fitness center, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Its central location made it a comfortable base while we explored Cologne and attended the Red Fang concert.
After walking around the city and spending an energetic evening at the concert, it was nice to have a comfortable hotel within the city rather than having to travel far from the action.
Frankfurt – Frankfurt Marriott Hotel
Our final hotel was the Frankfurt Marriott Hotel, one of the more impressive properties of the trip. The hotel is the tallest hotel in the Rhine-Main region and offers spectacular views across Frankfurt.
The hotel is close to Frankfurt’s main train station and the Frankfurt Convention Center, making it another excellent choice for our rail-based travels. It also offered several dining options, including an extensive breakfast buffet, along with a fitness center and M Club Lounge.