Germany Travel Planning with Cate - podcast cover

Germany Travel Planning with Cate

Cate from MyGermanyVacation.com www.mygermanyvacation.com

The Germany Travel Planning Podcast is the go-to resource for anyone planning a trip to Germany—or even just dreaming of one. Hosted by Cate from MyGermanyVacation.com, this weekly show provides practical travel information, insider tips, trip reports, and more to help travelers explore Germany and surrounding countries with confidence.


Aaron (MGV co-founder and Cate's husband) frequently joins the show, along with special guests who share their expertise and experiences. 


Whether you're deciding where to go, how to navigate Germany’s trains, what to pack, or how to find hidden gems beyond the usual tourist spots, the Germany Travel Planning Podcast offers valuable insights to make every trip smoother and more enjoyable. Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode! 

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Episodes

Ep 49 | Our FlixBus Experiences and Review

Are you thinking about taking FlixBus on your trip to Germany? We've taken FlixBus several times in Germany, Hungary, Serbia, Slovenia (and a tiny bit of Italy), so in this episode I share our experiences to help you decide if it's a good option for your trip. If you'd like to explore taking the train in Germany, listen to Ep 23 here next! For show notes, photos, links, and helpful trip planning resources, visit > https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/our-flixbus-experiences-and-review/ Plan your...

Apr 30, 202627 min

Ep 48 | How to Make the Most of a 1-week Bavarian Christmas Market Getaway [Trip Report]

How do you maximize 1 week in Bavaria during the magical Christmas market season? In this trip report episode, Kori shares what made her and her husband's first-ever Germany trip so special and memorable. We talk about the Christmas markets, food, accommodations, and the moments Kori enjoyed the most. If you've been dreaming about traveling Germany at Christmas, you definitely want to listen to this one! Topics covered: Why Kori and her husband chose Germany for a first-ever Europe trip Renting ...

Apr 16, 202632 min

Ep 47 | Is Hiring Private Tour Guide in Berlin Worth It? Everything You Need to Know to Decide

A private tour guide can completely change how you experience a city, especially in Berlin. But it's not the right choice for every traveler or every trip. In this episode, I talk with Matti Geyer, a private tour guide in Berlin and Potsdam and one of our preferred partners, to answer the questions travelers ask us all the time so you can decide if hiring a private guide is right for your trip. For show notes, photos, links, and helpful trip planning resources, visit > https://www.mygermanyva...

Apr 02, 202624 min

Why We're Slowing Down (and How it Helps You)

Here's a quick update about the podcast before tomorrow's regular episode! Plan your dream Germany trip the easy way! Custom Itinerary Service DIY Germany Travel Planner + Itinerary Review Support the Podcast If you found episode helpful, please leave a 5-star rating and review. It helps make our podcast visible to more travelers. Thank you!...

Apr 01, 20264 min

Ep 46 | How to Plan an Amsterdam Stopover: Gerrit's Tips & Picks [Stopover Series]

In this episode I talk with Netherlands travel expert and private guide Gerrit van den Berg from Hidden Holland about how to make the most of an Amsterdam stopover on your way to or from Germany. Gerrit shares where to stay, what to eat, which museums require booking months out, and why 1 day outside the city could be the best decision you make. If you're thinking about adding Amsterdam to your Germany itinerary, definitely listen to this episode! For show notes, photos, links, and helpful trip ...

Mar 19, 202636 min

Ep 45 | Don't Start With Where You Want to Go - Start With This Instead

Nobody wants to come home from Germany with regrets! In this episode, I share 2 important questions I ask myself before I get too deep into planning a trip. These questions are worth pondering because your answers will shape your entire trip! For show notes, photos, links, and helpful trip planning resources, visit > https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/podcast-episode-45 Plan your dream Germany trip the easy way! Custom Itinerary Service DIY Germany Travel Planner + Itinerary Review Support the...

Mar 12, 202619 min

Can I Ask You Something? (It's About Your Germany Trip)

Got a minute? I have something to ask you in this episode. Mentioned in this episode: Our Germany travel Facebook group MyGermanyVacation.com Plan your dream Germany trip the easy way! Custom Itinerary Service DIY Germany Travel Planner + Itinerary Review Support the Podcast If you found episode helpful, please leave a 5-star rating and review. It helps make our podcast visible to more travelers. Thank you!...

Mar 05, 20265 min

Ep 44 | Dos and Don'ts for Your First Day in Germany

Are you wondering how to plan your first day in Germany after a long international flight? Do you want to minimize jet lag and set yourself up for a successful trip? After over 35 years of repeatedly flying from the US to Germany and testing every jet lag hack we came across, Aaron and I have our arrival day down to a science. Today, I'm sharing our exact routine to stay awake, beat jet lag, and kick off the adventure of a lifetime...including the 3 things we never do on day 1. For show notes, p...

Feb 26, 202615 min

Ep 43 | Germany with Teens: How to Make the Most of a 2-Week Family Trip [Trip Report]

How do you plan a family Germany trip that keeps 3 teenagers engaged? In this episode, I talk with Casey, a mom of 3 teens, who shares highlights and tips from her 2 week family Germany adventure. Discover Casey's tips for finding the perfect mix of sightseeing and family fun, navigating unexpected heat waves and train hiccups, accommodations for 5, and more! For show notes, photos, links, and helpful trip planning resources, visit > https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/podcast-episode-43 Plan y...

Feb 19, 202639 min

Ep 42 | Traveler Q & A: Car vs Train, Itinerary Review & Christmas Market Packing

Today I’m diving into real-world questions from our community and clients to help you navigate Germany with confidence! I first advise a traveler on whether they should rent a car or take the train, then I give feedback on an 18-day itinerary, and finally I share what to pack for a Christmas market adventure. For show notes, photos, links, and helpful trip planning resources, visit > https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/podcast-episode-42 Plan your dream Germany trip the easy way! Custom Itinera...

Feb 12, 202629 min

Ep 41 | The Most Delicious Way to Spend an Afternoon in Salzburg

This week I’m reviewing a Salzburg strudel baking class that our clients consistently rave about. I dive into what actually happens during the session, why it’s a fantastic break from standard sightseeing, and the insider tips you need to know. Spoiler alert: we loved this class! Book your spot in this Salzburg Strudel Class here! For show notes, photos from the class, links, and helpful trip planning resources, visit >https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/podcast-episode-41 Plan your dream Germa...

Feb 05, 202618 min

Ep 40 | How to Plan a Dublin Stopover: Jody's Tips & Picks [Stopover Series]

In this episode I talk with Ireland travel expert Jody Halsted from Ireland Family Vacations about how to create the the perfect Dublin stopover on your way to or from Germany. We talk about where to stay, what to do, where to eat, what to book ahead, easy day trips - and why we LOVE flying to the US from Dublin airport. If you're considering including Ireland or even just Dublin in your Germany trip, you'll love this episode! For show notes, links, and helpful trip planning resources, visit &gt...

Feb 01, 202635 min

Ep 39 | 5 Things to Know Before You Go to Germany

Today I'm sharing 5 "on the ground" essentials to help you skip common rookie mistakes and navigate Germany with ease, so you can stay fully present and enjoy every minute of your trip! For show notes and helpful trip planning resources, visit > https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/podcast-episode-39 Plan your dream Germany trip the easy way! Custom Itinerary Service DIY Germany Travel Planner + Itinerary Review Support the Podcast If you found episode helpful, please leave a 5-star rating and r...

Jan 23, 202618 min

Ep 38 | How to Make the Most of 1 Week in Germany [Trip Report]

If you'd like to maximize a short trip to Germany, this episode is a goldmine! I talk with Doris - a 70-year-old retired mom who plans annual vacations for her family of four - about her 1-week trip to two different regions of Germany. We talk about Doris' first-hand experience with train travel, private guides, accommodations and more. Doris' also shares helpful tips for planning your own unforgettable Germany getaway! For show notes and helpful trip planning resources, visit > https://www.m...

Jan 15, 202637 min

Ep 37 | What First-timers to Germany Need to Know

If you're planning your first trip to Germany, you'll love this episode! I answer the big questions first-time visitors to Germany have about about things like transportation, itinerary planning, cultural etiquette, food, budgeting, etc. Listen in for valuable insights so you can enjoy best of Germany with confidence. For show notes and helpful trip planning resources, visit > https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/podcast-episode-37 Plan your dream Germany trip the easy way! Custom Itinerary Serv...

Jan 08, 202640 min

INVITATION: Free Europe Travel Planning Event!

Hey Germany travelers! Are you dreaming about all of the places you'd love to travel in Europe? My good friend Michelle is hosting a free Europe travel planning event next week (Jan 13-15) called the DIY Trip Summit: Europe Beyond the Crowds and I'm not only thrilled to be a speaker but I'm also excited to invite you to join in! 🎒 You'll get expert tips, free resources, and insider advice at the D.I.Y. Trip Summit . I'll be talking about Germany beyond the crowds and I'll be on a live panel (wi...

Jan 05, 20262 min

Ep 36 | 3 Germany Updates and What's Next for the Podcast and Us

In today's episode I share 3 Germany travel updates you should know about and what's next for us and the podcast. Thanks for listening and have a happy holiday season! Join our email list here so you won't miss the next episode! Plan your dream Germany trip the easy way! Custom Itinerary Service DIY Germany Travel Planner + Itinerary Review Support the Podcast If you found episode helpful, please leave a 5-star rating and review. It helps make our podcast visible to more travelers. Thank you!...

Nov 27, 20257 min

Ep 35 How to Include London in your Germany Travel Plans [Stopover Series]

Get your free Germany Travel Starter Kit here so you can start planning your dream trip with confidence and skip the most common mistakes travelers make! About this Episode Thinking about stopping in London on your way to or from Germany? In this episode, I chat with UK travel expert Tracy Collins about how to make the most of a London stopover. We talk about where to stay, what to eat, must-see sights, and more. Get ready for insider tips, fun stories, and fresh ideas to make your stopover unfo...

Nov 20, 202533 min

Ep 34 Essential Tips for Exploring Germany's Best Christmas Markets

Get your free Germany Travel Starter Kit here so you can start planning your dream trip with confidence and skip the most common mistakes travelers make! About this Episode If you've ever dreamed of visiting Germany during the holiday season, this episode is for you. I recently joined my friend Tracy Collins on the Global Travel Planning Podcast to talk all about Germany's magical Christmas markets. We talk about what makes German Christmas markets so special, how to choose which markets to visi...

Nov 13, 202535 min

Ep 33 Fall Weather in Germany: What to Expect and What to Pack [Field Report]

Get your free Germany Travel Starter Kit here so you can start planning your dream trip with confidence and skip the most common mistakes travelers make! About this Episode Curious what Germany’s fall weather is really like? In this episode, Aaron and I share our on-the-ground field report from the past month we've been doing travel research in southern Germany and Austria. Hear what the weather has been like from late September to early November, what we packed, and our best tips for enjoying y...

Nov 06, 202530 min

Ep 32 Rhine Villages, a Castle Hotel & Antique Treasures: How Sallie Made Her Germany Trip a 25th Anniversary to Remember [Trip Report]

Get your free Germany Travel Starter Kit here so you can start planning your dream trip with confidence and skip the most common mistakes travelers make! About this Episode In this trip report episode, I talk with Sallie, who celebrated 25 years of marriage with a dreamy trip through Germany, Belgium, and Luxembourg! Sallie shares her favorite Germany moments from a unique castle stay and antique finds to exploring Rhine River villages and even a surprise parade. Listen in for how Sallie made he...

Oct 30, 202537 min

Ep 31 Souvenirs That Bring Germany Home With You

Start here to plan your dream Germany trip with confidence, skip the guesswork, and actually enjoy the process! About this Episode If you'd like to bring home souvenirs or gifts from your Germany trip, this episode is for you! I share: 20+ ideas for things that make meaningful, beautiful, unique or delicious souvenirs (or gifts) Tips for where to find high-quality or local items What actually makes a souvenir special...and how to choose ones you’ll love long after your trip For show notes, episo...

Oct 23, 202519 min

Ep 30 Germany by Train vs Car: Pros, Cons & Insider Tips

Plan the perfect Germany trip with less stress and better results with our DIY Germany Travel Planner! -- Train or car - which should you choose for your Germany trip? In this episode I share the honest pros and cons of both, plus insider tips from our own travels. Before you book anything, listen to this episode to find out what’ll make your trip smoother and more fun. For show notes, episode transcript, and helpful trip planning resources, visit > https://www.mygermanyvacation.com/podcast-e...

Oct 17, 202526 min

Ep 29 Planning a Paris Stopover: Marcie’s Tips & Picks [Stopover Series]

Plan the perfect Germany trip with less stress and better results with our DIY Germany Travel Planner! -- If you’re planning a stopover in Paris on your way to or from Germany, this episode will help you do it right. I talk with Paris travel expert Marcie Cheung about where we each like to stay, where we like to eat, day trips, what we book in advance, and how to capture those unforgettable Paris moments, even with just a few days. For show notes, photos, episode transcript, and helpful trip pla...

Oct 09, 202545 min

Ep 28 Don't Make these Christmas Market Mistakes!

Plan the perfect Germany trip with less stress and better results with our DIY Germany Travel Planner! -- If you’re dreaming of Germany’s Christmas markets, don’t let common mistakes ruin the magic. In this episode I share 7 pitfalls to avoid so you can plan smarter, enjoy more, and create unforgettable holiday memories. Pair this episode with our DIY Germany Travel Planner and new interactive Christmas Market Planning Map featuring our top markets so you can plan your dream trip with confidence...

Oct 04, 202528 min

Ep 27 Best Day Trips From Munich

Plan the perfect Germany trip with less stress and better results with our DIY Germany Travel Planner! -- Munich is not only a popular destination, it's the perfect base for exploring southern Germany via day trips. In this episode, Cate highlights the best day trips to dreamy castles, relaxing alpine lakes, alpine mountain villages, and even quick jaunts into Austria. Listen in for insider tips and planning advice to help you craft unforgettable day adventures from Bavaria’s capital. For show n...

Sep 25, 202527 min

Ep 26 A Mother-Daughter Trip to Remember with Anna Vogler [Trip Report]

Plan the perfect Germany trip with less stress and better results with our DIY Germany Travel Planner! -- Something I love even more than working with our Germany travel planning clients is hearing about their trips after they've returned home! That's why today I’m talking with Anna, who went on an incredibly special 11-day trip to Germany with her mom. Not only did they visit stunning places like the Black Forest, the Moselle Valley, and Heidelberg, but they also traveled back to the tiny town ...

Sep 18, 202542 min

Ep 25 How We Can Help You Plan Your Dream Trip

Plan the perfect Germany trip with less stress and better results with our DIY Germany Travel Planner! -- Whether you are just starting to plan your trip, nearly finished, or somewhere in between, this episode will help you connect with the right planning resources we offer so you can take your best next step towards feeling confident, prepared, and ready to enjoy the best of Germany. For show notes, episode transcript, and helpful trip planning resources, visit > https://www.mygermanyvacatio...

Sep 11, 202518 min

Ep 24 Five Things You Must Do in Heidelberg

Plan the perfect Germany trip with less stress and better results with our DIY Germany Travel Planner! -- Mulling over a stop in Heidelberg? In this episode I share 5 must-dos in one of Germany’s most beautiful and historic cities. I also share tips for where to stay and how to make the most of your time there...and a funny story about a big mistake Aaron and I once made in Heidelberg. We laugh about it now but we weren't laughing when it happened! For show notes, episode transcript, and helpful...

Sep 04, 202525 min

Ep 23 The Truth About Taking the Train in Germany

Planning your own Germany trip? Get the complete toolkit to do it right ! -- What's it like traveling around Germany by train these days? In this episode I give you the unvarnished truth — the good, bad, and the downright frustrating. From personal stories to practical tips, you’ll learn what to expect, how to avoid common hiccups, and your best next step if you decide to travel by train on your trip. For show notes, episode transcript, and helpful trip planning resources, visit > https://www...

Aug 28, 202529 min
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