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European Adventures: Wonder and Wanderings
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items I've had the privilege to lead TWO faculty-led programs for university students to Europe - with 11 students in 2023 and 2025. While there was an education course attached to these trips for the students, we were ALL checking off some major bucket li...
Sections
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Freiburg, Germany: Black Forest Basecamp
Munich, Germany: Heart of Bavaria
Staufen, Germany: Ruins, Legends & Ridge Views
Paris, France: The Grand Finale
Strasbourg, France: Fairytales in French
Basel, Switzerland: Borders, Bistros & the Best Chocolate
Freiburg, Germany: Black Forest Basecamp
This university town quickly became our home away from home. Cozy cafés, green spaces, and a sense of community anchored our learning and leisure days.
We all fell in love with Freiburg the first time we spent a week there and my trip leader and I could not wait to return and take another group of students there! Rich in history and culture, yet modern and lively. It's the best of both worlds. A gui...
Freiburg: English Tours of the Old City
⛪ Freiburg Minster — A breathtaking blend of Gothic grandeur and peaceful presence. We marveled at its intricate spire, stunning stained glass, and the sense of history that fills the square. Standing beneath its towering beauty truly makes you feel ...
Freiburger Münster
🌻 Münstermarkt Freiburg — A feast for the senses! 🌿 Stroll through one of Germany’s most charming markets, set against the stunning backdrop of Freiburg’s cathedral. Discover colorful flowers, local produce, artisan cheeses, and the famous “Lange R...
Freiburger Münstermarkt (Freiburg Cathedral Market)
Schlossberg (Castle Mountain) Hike, stroll, or ride the funicular up this iconic hill for unbeatable views over Freiburg’s rooftops and the Black Forest beyond. 🌄 Whether you’re chasing sunset magic, exploring historic fortress ruins, or grabbing a ...
Schlossberg (Castle mountain)
Climb this striking tower atop Freiburg’s Schlossberg hill for panoramic views of the city, the Black Forest, and even the distant Vosges Mountains on a clear day. A favorite for hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking a fresh-air adventure just st...
Schlossbergturm (Schlossberg Tower)
Housed in a former monastery, this remarkable museum showcases centuries of art—from medieval masterpieces and altarpieces to Baroque sculptures and modern works. A must-visit for art and history lovers exploring Freiburg! While we were there, they h...
Augustinermuseum
Step through one of Freiburg’s most iconic medieval city gates! Built in the 13th century, this historic landmark offers a glimpse into the city’s past, with its striking tower, murals, and legends of daring merchants. Don’t miss the views of the cha...
Schwabentor (Swabian gate)
A beloved green oasis west of the city center, Seepark invites you to stroll peaceful paths, relax by the lake, or rent a pedal boat for a gentle adventure. With beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and cozy cafés, it’s a perfect spot to unwind and soak u...
Lake Park (Seepark) Freiburg | Freiburg Tourism
Step into Freiburg’s vibrant history at this striking red Renaissance building on Münsterplatz! Originally a medieval merchants' hall, it once served as the hub of trade and civic life. Today, it’s a photo-worthy landmark that hosts concerts, events,...
Historisches Kaufhaus Freiburg
Step back in time at one of Freiburg’s iconic medieval city gates. This 13th-century landmark blends history with charm, standing tall as a reminder of the city’s past. Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo of its striking tower and archway as you st...
Martinstor (Martin’s gate)
A beautiful blend of old and new! Set in charming buildings from the 16th and 17th centuries, Freiburg’s New Town Hall combines Renaissance architecture with modern city government. Don’t miss its lovely inner courtyard and the peaceful square out fr...
Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall)
Wander through this atmospheric cemetery dating back to the 1600s, where ancient tombstones, moss-covered monuments, and quiet paths tell stories of Freiburg’s past. One grave in particular draws visitors from around the world: that of Caroline Walte...
Alter Friedhof (Old Cemetary)
A favorite local spot for photos, this iconic blue railway bridge connects the city center with Freiburg’s vibrant Stühlinger district. Whether you’re crossing on foot or bike, stop to admire the view of the Black Forest hills and Freiburg’s cathedra...
Wiwilibrucke Blaue Brucke
Wander this picture-perfect cobbled street lined with colorful historic buildings, lush window boxes, and cozy cafés. It’s a hidden gem for photographers and the perfect spot to soak up Freiburg’s old-town charm.
Konviktstraße
Explore the fascinating story of one of Germany’s oldest universities! The Uniseum blends historic artifacts, interactive exhibits, and modern storytelling to showcase the University of Freiburg’s role in shaping science, culture, and society since 1...
Uniseum Freiburg (Museum of the University of Freiburg)
Wander this charming stretch where the narrow canals and pretty houses bring a dash of Venice to the Black Forest. Don’t miss spotting the quirky little alligator sculpture lounging in the stream — a hidden gem that delights kids and grown-ups alike!
Klein Venedig (Little Venice)
Munich, Germany: Heart of Bavaria
Historic, hearty, and full of charm. Munich gave us big city energy with beer hall vibes and deeply moving moments.
The beating heart of Munich’s Old Town, Marienplatz buzzes with life—from the chiming Glockenspiel to street performers and photo-snapping tourists. We wandered past centuries-old architecture, grabbed soft pretzels from nearby vendors, and soaked in...
Marienplatz: the heart of the city
One of the largest science and technology museums in the world, this spot had something for everyone—airplanes, submarines, timepieces, and even medical marvels. A favorite for the curious-minded, it made us feel like kids again in the best way.
Deutsches Museum
There’s nothing quite like your first group dinner in a cavernous, centuries-old beer hall, complete with oompah music, giant pretzels, and the clatter of steins. Loud, fun, and entirely Bavarian—this was the welcome dinner we didn’t know we needed.
Hofbräuhaus München
This visit left a mark on all of us. The preserved grounds and museum offered a sobering look at one of history’s darkest chapters. Walking through the barracks and memorials was emotional—but also powerful, grounding our trip in remembrance and refl...
Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial
One of Europe’s largest urban parks, this green escape gave us time to decompress. We strolled past hidden beer gardens and shady trails, watched surfers on the Eisbach wave, and held space for a thoughtful group conversation near the river.
English Garden
With its cliffside perch and snow globe looks, Neuschwanstein is the stuff of fairytales. A few of us made the journey, snapping photos from Marienbrücke and pretending to be royalty for the afternoon. Bonus: the train ride there was almost as pretty...
Day Trip from Munich: Neuschwanstein Castle
Staufen, Germany: Ruins, Legends & Ridge Views
Tucked at the edge of the Black Forest, Staufen was a quiet surprise with a dramatic twist. A steep hill led us to castle ruins with panoramic views—and a town steeped in Faustian legend. Cobblestone streets, crooked buildings, and a hauntingly beaut...
It’s a short but steep walk up through vineyards and wildflowers, and the payoff is worth every step. At the top, the ruins of the medieval castle offer open stone archways, crumbling walls, and 360° views over the Rhine Valley and into France on a c...
Castle Ruins (Burgruine Staufen)
Paris, France: The Grand Finale
A city of lights, layers, and long walks. We took in the sights, soaked in the art, and watched the Eiffel Tower sparkle as the trip wound down.
You could spend days here and still not see it all, but we made the most of our hours inside the world’s most iconic museum. From the Mona Lisa’s knowing smile to larger-than-life sculptures and ancient artifacts, every room felt like a scene from a ...
Louvre Museum
Our summit tickets timed with golden hour gave us a front-row seat to the Paris skyline glowing beneath a setting sun. Some of us arrived early to wander nearby markets and parks, while others waited for the sparkle show after dusk. Either way, it wa...
Eiffel Tower
With bridges draped in history and bouquinistes selling vintage prints, our river strolls were some of the most peaceful parts of the trip. The Seine offered a front-row view of some of Paris’s most famous landmarks—and more than a few photo ops.
Seine Riverside Walk in Paris
For those seeking something a little darker, the Paris Catacombs delivered. Descending into the dim tunnels beneath the city, we found rows of carefully arranged bones and centuries of whispered stories. Not for the claustrophobic, but totally fascin...
The Paris Catacombs
Gilded ceilings, mirrored halls, and sprawling gardens that go on forever—Versailles was opulence on overdrive. From the royal chambers to the fountains outside, this optional excursion gave us a grand finale before our actual finale.
Day Trip from Paris: Versailles Palace & Gardens
Strasbourg, France: Fairytales in French
With its half-timbered houses and riverside cafés, Strasbourg looked like it came straight out of a storybook. Part German, part French, and 100% enchanting, it was a perfect blend of cultures—and confections.
Cobblestone streets, flower-filled balconies, and half-timbered houses made this district an absolute dream. We could’ve spent all day here wandering along the canals and pretending we lived in a gingerbread village.
The Petite France District
Towering and intricate, the Strasbourg Cathedral left us speechless. The astronomical clock inside was a highlight, but even just standing outside and craning our necks upward felt like a sacred moment.
The Cathedral of Notre-Dame - Strasbourg
Basel, Switzerland: Borders, Bistros & the Best Chocolate
A smooth hop into Switzerland brought clean streets, world-class art, and sweet treats. Basel blended modern design with Old Town charm, proving you don’t need a passport stamp to feel like you’ve entered a different world.
A sleek, modern museum with a seriously impressive collection, this spot is a must for art lovers. From Renaissance masters to contemporary favorites, every gallery brought a new visual surprise. Even the architecture was worth a pause.
Kunstmuseum Basel
We wandered through quiet cloisters and stepped into Gothic grandeur at the Basel Minster, then turned the corner for peaceful views over the Rhine. It was the perfect blend of serenity and splendor in a city that doesn’t try too hard to impress—beca...
Basler Münster
Salzburg, Austria: Soundtracks & Strudel
Just across the border, Salzburg served up storybook charm with a side of schnitzel. Between fortress views and Sound of Music stops, this alpine gem gave us a magical escape full of melody, mountains, and mouthwatering pastries.
The city’s Old Town oozes baroque elegance, and Mozart’s legacy is everywhere—from statues and museums to music shops and souvenirs. We wandered cobbled streets, peeked into Salzburg Cathedral, and soaked up the city's rhythm where classical meets ch...
Mozartplatz & Monument
Perched high above Salzburg, this 11th-century fortress is one of Europe’s largest preserved castles—and the views are just as legendary as its history. We rode the funicular up to explore grand halls, medieval artifacts, and the quirky Marionette Mu...
Fortress Hohensalzburg
Perfectly manicured flowerbeds, whimsical fountains, and that staircase from “Do-Re-Mi.” Whether you're a Sound of Music fan or just love a good photo backdrop, Mirabell was like walking through a living painting.
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Some opted for a guided tour; others just followed the notes on foot. Either way, the hills (and steps and courtyards) were alive with memories of Maria and the von Trapps. And yes, we may have sung a little. Quietly. Mostly.
The Sound of Music Experience
Travel In Style: What I Wore (and Carried) in Europe
Packing light doesn’t mean sacrificing style. For this two-week European adventure, I embraced a carry-on-only challenge with a capsule wardrobe built around simple, classic pieces that mixed and matched effortlessly. Think timeless neutrals, versati...
I am strictly a carry on only traveler…even when I went on a two-week trip to Europe, it was this back and a backpack! I LOVE this carry on bag!!
SwissGear Sion 21-Inch Expandable Carry-On
The exact backpack I have isn't available anymore as I got it before my first European trip, but this is VERY similar. Same size…it's BIG, but still meets ‘personal item’ qualifications for carry on.
Extra Large Travel Laptop Backpack
I packed this in my carry on luggage and it was my day use bag when we were out and about. Love the extra security in this one with the RFID blocking.
G4Free RFID Blocking Crossbody Daypack
This jacket was perfect for the May trip! Again, a little cooler in the mornings and evenings and we did get sprinkled on here and there. I didn't take an umbrella (I don't like using them), but this jacket kept me warm and dry!
Long Hooded Rain Jacket/Windbreaker
These quickly became my new FAVORITE pair of jeans…at home and in Mexico! Love the raw edge detail. They fit great and are super comfy!
Sidefeel Women's High Waisted Raw Hem Jeans
A good pair of leggings…always a must! I had a couple and loved this pair!
High Waist Leggings with Pockets
Cute tank #2
Crewneck Ribbed Tank
I had four different tanks from the same brand…all with different necklines, which was fun!
Square Neck Ribbed Tank
A nice, lightweight top.
Loose Fitted Crewneck Top
I had this button up in navy. I love the texture and it travels in a PACKED bag so well. It doesn't show wrinkles even after being in a compression bag for days!
Button Down Long Sleeve Textured Shirt #1
Same brand as the navy button down, but slightly different style. Still the great texture that doesn't show wrinkles. Love that the sleeves are loose enough to wear any kind of top underneath - tank, tee, or long sleeve - depending on the weather. It...
Button Down Long Sleeve Shirt #2
Simple long sleeve v-neck tshirt. Soft and perfect weight for wearing by themselves or layered!
Women's Long Sleeve T Shirts - 2 pack
I walked a LOT of miles in these shoes!!
Women's Knit Slip-On Walking Shoes
Another great, versitle item. A nice, lightweight sweater.
Long-Sleeve Lightweight Crewneck Sweater
SUPER comfy stretchy jean! Loved the color and they were perfect for my color palette for this trip.
Strechy Skinny Jeans
You can never go wrong with a dark wash.
Stretchy Skinny Jeans
Other
Germany: Memories of a Nation by Neil MacGregor brings German history to life through objects, art, and personal stories rather than dry timelines. Based on the acclaimed BBC series, it explores how everyday items—from a Gutenberg Bible to a VW Beetl...
Germany: Memories of a Nation