Train Munich → Stuttgart

The golden tweet of Germany Here's the Glockenspiel on Munich. Set at the foot of the Bavarian Alps. The city is a mix of rustic tradition, modern life and at times, a somber history. And while one should never forget history, lest be condemned to repeat, we'll focus on what makes Munich a destination for beer lovers, believers in fairy tales and Christmas gift shoppers. And for those wishing to travel to Munich and beyond, be sure to get a German Rail Pass ! First, the spiel on the Rathaus-Glockenspiel. Located in the 800+ year-old Marienplatz, or central square in the city center. This huge mechanical clock has 43 bells and 32 life-sized figurines that come to life in a 260-foot tower, reenacting two scenes from Munich's history. The whole show lasts about 15 minutes, culminating in the appearance of a small golden bird chirping three times. And the crowd goes wild. Show up at 11am to see this “tweet” show. Munich is best known the world over for its incredibly rambunctious Oktoberfest. For 16 days, the city becomes a giant keg party. For years, the fest has followed a traditional calendar of events. On the first Saturday, the tapping of the first beer barrel by the Munich Mayor. On the last Sunday, fireworks commence in the Theresienwiese, the fest's main field. In the days between, find millions of revelers clinking beer steins together, chugging and chanting “O'zapft is !” Learn more about Munich

Rev up your traveler engines Stuttgart, the capital of Baden-Wurttemberg (although many still call the area Swabia, its pre-World War II name), is known the world over as the "cradle of the automobile." It was in Stuttgart in 1871 that Gottlieb Daimler invented the first car. This creation is so ingrained in the city's heritage that the Stuttgart coat of arms is the same that graces the hood of every Porsche. Stuttgart was not always the industrial powerhouse it is today. Way back in the 13th century wine was the city's first source of income. Wine remained Stuttgart's leading source of revenue well into the 19th century. Even today, with more than 800 acres of vineyards, this industry continues to help the local economy. Such so, that the annual wine festival “Weindorf” celebrates this fruit of the vine. Learn more about Stuttgart