Amboise, France 15-Day Trip Itinerary

Depart Madrid

Begin your exciting road trip from Madrid towards the Loire Valley.

The drive today will be substantial, so enjoy the changing landscapes.

Ensure your car is fueled, and you have snacks and drinks for the journey. Plan for comfort stops.

Lunch Stop En Route

Stop for a relaxed lunch at a convenient location along your route, perhaps near Bordeaux or Limoges, to break up the drive.

Look for a local 'plat du jour' for a taste of regional French cuisine.

Arrive at Overnight Stop

Check into your accommodation for a well-deserved rest after a day of driving.

We recommend a stop in the Poitiers or Tours region to break up the journey to Amboise.

Relax and recharge for the next day's drive.

Dinner in Poitiers/Tours Area

Enjoy a comforting dinner at a local restaurant near your accommodation.

Depart Overnight Stop

Continue your drive towards Amboise, the heart of the Loire Valley.

Arrive & Check-in Amboise

Arrive in the charming town of Amboise, known for its royal château.

Check into your hotel and settle in.

The town offers beautiful views of the Loire River and its famous château.

Lunch in Amboise

Enjoy a delightful French lunch in Amboise.

Explore a local bistro for regional specialties.

Riverside & Town Stroll

Take a leisurely walk along the Loire River and through the picturesque streets of Amboise, soaking in the atmosphere.

Enjoy views of Château d'Amboise from different perspectives.

Dinner with Loire Flavors

Dine at a traditional restaurant in Amboise, perhaps trying some local Loire Valley wines with your meal.

Château d'Amboise Visit

Explore the magnificent Château d'Amboise, a former residence of French kings.

Discover its royal apartments, Gothic architecture, and beautiful gardens.

The panoramic views from the château walls are stunning.

Lunch in Amboise

Enjoy lunch at a local crêperie or café in Amboise's town square.

Explore Clos Lucé

Visit Le Clos Lucé, the last residence of Leonardo da Vinci.

See his bedroom, workshops, and a park showcasing his incredible inventions.

A fascinating insight into the mind of a genius. Allow extra time for the outdoor park.

Relax or Shop

Take some free time to relax at your hotel or browse the charming shops and artisan boutiques in Amboise.

Evening Dinner in Amboise

Savor another delightful dinner in Amboise, perhaps trying a restaurant you spotted earlier or returning to a favorite.

Depart Amboise

Begin your scenic drive from the Loire Valley towards Colmar in Alsace.

This is a longer drive through the French countryside.

Lunch Stop En Route

Stop for lunch in a charming town along your route, perhaps near Dijon or Besançon, offering a taste of regional French cuisine.

Consider exploring a local market if time permits.

Arrive & Check-in Colmar

Arrive in Colmar, the picturesque 'Little Venice' of Alsace.

Check into your hotel and take some time to refresh.

Colmar is renowned for its well-preserved old town and unique Franco-German architecture.

Evening Stroll in Old Town

Take an initial evening stroll through Colmar's enchanting Old Town, admiring the half-timbered houses and canal views.

The town lights create a magical atmosphere in the evening.

Alsatian Dinner Experience

Savor your first Alsatian dinner.

Try local specialties like Flammekueche (tarte flambée) or Choucroute Garnie, paired with a glass of local Riesling or Gewürztraminer.

Explore 'Little Venice'

Discover Colmar's iconic 'Little Venice' district.

Consider a scenic boat ride along the Lauch River for unique views of the colorful buildings.

Perfect for photography. Boat rides usually cost around EUR 6-7 per person.

Colmar Old Town Walk

Wander through the heart of Colmar's Old Town, exploring Rue des Marchands, the Pfister House, and the Maison des Têtes.

Enjoy the unique architecture and artisan shops.

Traditional Winstub Lunch

Have lunch at a traditional Alsatian Winstub, a cozy wine tavern offering hearty local dishes and wines.

Unterlinden Museum

Visit the world-renowned Unterlinden Museum, home to the magnificent Isenheim Altarpiece by Grünewald.

A must-see for art and history enthusiasts.

Farewell Dinner in Colmar

Enjoy a final evening meal in Colmar, perhaps trying another Alsatian culinary delight.

Explore Little Venice

Begin your day with a delightful stroll through 'Little Venice' (La Petite Venise) in Colmar.

Admire the colorful half-timbered houses, charming canals, and flower-lined bridges. Consider a short boat ride for a unique perspective.

Early morning offers fewer crowds and beautiful light for photos. Many cafes in the area for a morning coffee.

Unterlinden Museum Visit

Discover the impressive collections of the Unterlinden Museum, housed in a former Dominican convent.

It's famous for the Isenheim Altarpiece by Grünewald, as well as medieval, Renaissance, and modern art.

Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Check for special exhibitions.

Alsatian Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Alsatian lunch in a local 'winstub' (wine tavern).

Try specialties like Tarte Flambée (Flammkuchen), Baeckeoffe, or Choucroute.

Look for restaurants with outdoor seating if the weather is nice. Many excellent options near the museum.

Old Town Exploration

Wander through Colmar's charming Old Town.

Admire historic buildings like the Pfister House, the House of Heads, and visit the Collegiate Church of Saint Martin. Explore the quaint streets and boutique shops.

Wear comfortable shoes. This is a great opportunity for souvenir shopping.

Evening Dinner in Colmar

Savor another delicious dinner in Colmar, perhaps trying a different Alsatian wine or a specific dish you missed at lunch.

Many restaurants have charming outdoor seating for a pleasant evening.

Last Colmar Stroll & Market

Enjoy a final leisurely stroll through Colmar.

If it's market day (check local schedules), visit the covered market or an outdoor market for local produce and treats.

Pick up some local cheese or sweets for your journey.

Scenic Drive to Freiburg

Embark on a picturesque drive from Colmar across the Rhine River into Germany, arriving in Freiburg im Breisgau, the gateway to the Black Forest.

The drive is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Ensure you have your navigation ready. There are good roads and clear signage. Remember speed limits change in Germany.

Check-in & Lunch in Freiburg

Arrive in Freiburg, check into your hotel, and then head out for lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps near the historic center.

Freiburg has a great selection of cafes and restaurants for a relaxed meal.

Munsterplatz & Cathedral

Explore the vibrant **Munsterplatz** (TripAdvisor), the main town square, bustling with market stalls (if weekday) and surrounded by historic buildings.

Visit the magnificent **Freiburg Cathedral** (Google Places), a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

Climbing the cathedral tower offers panoramic views of the city (check opening times).

Dinner in Freiburg

Enjoy a delicious dinner in Freiburg.

The city offers a range of options from traditional Swabian cuisine to international dishes.

Try some Baden wine, a regional specialty.

Freiburg Free Walking Tour

Join the **Freiburg Free Walking Tour** (TripAdvisor) to get an excellent overview of the city's history, landmarks, and unique features like the Bächle.

Meet at Rathausplatz.

Look for the guide with the yellow umbrella. While free, tips are appreciated.

Historical Merchants' Hall

Visit the **Historical Merchants' Hall** (Google Places) on Münsterplatz.

This vibrant red building with its arcades and turrets is a prominent landmark, historically serving as a customs house and market for merchants.

Best viewed from the outside, it offers great photo opportunities. Check if there are any events or exhibitions inside during your visit.

Lunch at Münster Market

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many food stalls around Münsterplatz, offering local sausages, Maultaschen, and other regional specialties.

The 'Lange Rote' sausage is a Freiburg classic – make sure to try one!

Bächle & Stadtgarten Stroll

Follow the famous **Bächle** (TripAdvisor), the small streams running through the city's streets. Then, relax and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the **Stadtgarten Freiburg** (Google Places), a beautiful urban park with fountains and rose gardens, offering lovely views.

Legend says if you accidentally step into a Bächle, you'll marry a Freiburger!

Evening & Dinner

Enjoy an evening exploring more of Freiburg's culinary scene or simply relax at a cozy bar.

Perhaps try some local craft beer or another regional wine.

Freiburg has a lively student population, so there are many vibrant spots.

Schlossberg Views & Walk

Hike or take the Schlossbergbahn (funicular) up **Schlossberg** (TripAdvisor), a mountain right on the edge of Freiburg. Enjoy fabulous panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Black Forest. There are several trails for a pleasant morning walk.

The Schlossbergbahn offers an easy way up for those preferring not to hike. Check funicular operating hours and pricing.

Naturerlebnispark Mundenhof

Visit **Naturerlebnispark Mundenhof** (TripAdvisor), a beautiful nature experience park and animal enclosure on the outskirts of Freiburg.

It's home to animals from different continents and offers lovely walking paths and gardens.

Free entry and parking. Great for a relaxed outdoor experience. There's a restaurant on-site.

Lunch near Mundenhof

Have lunch at the restaurant within Naturerlebnispark Mundenhof, or find a charming spot nearby.

Offers regional and seasonal dishes in a pleasant setting.

Colombischlössle Archaeological Museum

Explore **Colombischlössle** (Google Places), a beautiful neo-Gothic villa housing the Archaeological Museum.

It showcases artifacts from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages, with a focus on regional history.

The building itself is also worth admiring. Check for temporary exhibitions.

Farewell Dinner in Freiburg

Enjoy a final dinner in Freiburg, perhaps at a restaurant offering a cozy Black Forest atmosphere to reflect on your journey through Alsace and the Black Forest.

Consider a restaurant serving traditional Black Forest ham or cherry cake.

Early Departure from Freiburg

Have an early breakfast, check out from your hotel, and begin your long drive from Freiburg to Berlin.

This journey will take approximately 7-8 hours, excluding stops.

Pack snacks and drinks for the road. Ensure your car is fueled up and navigation is set.

Drive towards Berlin (Part 1)

Embark on the first leg of your drive from Freiburg towards Berlin.

You'll pass through varied German landscapes.

Germany's Autobahns are famous for their lack of speed limits in some sections, but always observe signage and traffic conditions. Take breaks as needed.

Lunch Break

Stop at a rest area or a town along your route for a lunch break.

Many Autobahn service stations offer a variety of food options.

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at a scenic rest stop.

Drive towards Berlin (Part 2)

Continue your drive, heading directly to Berlin.

The journey will bring you closer to the vibrant capital.

Stay hydrated and switch drivers if possible to ensure safety on this long drive.

Arrive & Check-in in Berlin

Arrive in Berlin and check into your accommodation.

This will mark the beginning of your 5-day exploration of Berlin.

Plan your route into Berlin considering potential evening traffic. Parking might be tricky depending on your hotel's location.

Relaxed Berlin Dinner

After a long day of driving, enjoy a relaxed dinner near your accommodation in Berlin.

Settle in and prepare for your city adventures.

Berlin offers an incredible array of dining options, from traditional German to international cuisine.

Drive from Freiburg to Berlin

Embark on your scenic drive from Freiburg im Breisgau to Berlin.

The journey is approximately 6-8 hours, depending on stops and traffic. Enjoy the changing German landscape.

Hotel Check-in

Arrive in Berlin and check into your chosen accommodation.

Settle in and unwind after your drive.

Dinner in Charlottenburg

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in the Charlottenburg district, known for its elegant restaurants and charming atmosphere.

A perfect way to ease into your Berlin experience.

Explore local German or international cuisine options in this lovely neighborhood.

Brandenburg Gate

Start your day at Berlin's most iconic landmark, the Brandenburg Gate.

Take photos and soak in the historical significance.

Reichstag Building (Exterior)

Walk to the Reichstag Building, the seat of the German Parliament.

Admire its impressive architecture and learn about its history. If interested, book a dome visit in advance online (can be done months ahead).

Dome visits require advance registration and security checks. Check the Bundestag website for details.

Lunch near Reichstag

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the restaurants or cafes in the government district.

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Visit the poignant Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, an impactful and thought-provoking site.

Walk through the labyrinth of concrete slabs.

An underground information center provides context and personal stories.

Stroll through Tiergarten

Take a relaxing walk through Tiergarten, Berlin's largest and most beautiful park, perfect for a gentle autumn afternoon stroll.

Dinner in Mitte

Explore the diverse culinary scene of Berlin's central Mitte district for your evening meal.

Museum Island Exploration

Devote your morning to Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing five world-renowned museums.

Choose one or two based on your interests, such as the Pergamon Museum (known for ancient artifacts) or the Neues Museum (Egyptian collection, including Nefertiti Bust).

Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time, especially for popular museums like the Pergamon.

Lunch on Museum Island

Grab a bite to eat at one of the cafes or restaurants located on or near Museum Island.

Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral)

Visit the impressive Berlin Cathedral, the largest church in the city.

Climb to the dome for panoramic views of Berlin and Museum Island.

Explore Hackescher Markt

Wander through the Hackescher Markt and Hackesche Höfe, a series of interconnected courtyards filled with unique boutiques, art galleries, and cafes.

Dinner in Hackescher Markt

Enjoy dinner in the lively Hackescher Markt area, known for its variety of restaurants and vibrant evening atmosphere.

East Side Gallery

Visit the East Side Gallery, the longest open-air gallery in the world, featuring murals painted directly on a surviving section of the Berlin Wall.

Walk along the Spree River and admire the various artworks and reflect on the history.

Authentic Currywurst Lunch

Experience a true Berlin culinary staple: Currywurst!

Find a popular Imbiss (snack stand) for a quick and delicious lunch.

Checkpoint Charlie

Explore Checkpoint Charlie, the most famous border crossing of the Berlin Wall.

See the guardhouse and learn about its role during the Cold War.

Mauermuseum (Wall Museum)

Dive deeper into the history of the Berlin Wall and its escape attempts at the Mauermuseum, located right next to Checkpoint Charlie.

Dinner in Kreuzberg

Head to the vibrant Kreuzberg district for dinner.

Known for its alternative scene and diverse international cuisine, it's a great spot for a lively evening.

Charlottenburg Palace

Visit Charlottenburg Palace, Berlin's largest and most magnificent palace.

Explore the baroque interiors and stroll through the extensive palace gardens.

You can choose to visit the old palace, new wing, or simply enjoy the gardens.

Lunch near Charlottenburg

Have lunch in the charming Charlottenburg area, with many cafes and restaurants to choose from.

Last-Minute Souvenirs or Cafe

Enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping or relax at a traditional Berlin cafe, soaking in the city's atmosphere before your departure preparations.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in a district of your choice, perhaps revisiting a favorite or trying a new recommendation.

Prepare for Departure

Spend some time preparing for your next day's drive back towards Madrid, packing and ensuring your car is ready for the journey.