Your AncestryProGenealogists® research service includes 30 hours of dedicated pre-trip research and planning into your family's origins. An expert genealogist has prepared a written report and images of the records found that inform your personal journey ahead.

A private transfer between your hotel and Frankfurt Airport is provided.

For your added comfort, an English speaking assistant will be waiting for you at the hotel lobby. Your representative will help you to check in and walk you through the welcome package documents, your itinerary and answer your questions.

A Welcome Package with a copy of your itinerary, tickets (if relevant), and any other information that we deem you may find useful, will be provided to you in destination.

Set out on foot with your private guide for a walking tour through the streets of Frankfurt. Despite the ravages of the Napoleonic War, Nazism and obliteration by bombing raids in WWII, Frankfurt's remarkable cultural legacy prevails, making it one of the world's most important historical cities and the financial center of Germany. It's also the birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. A renowned writer and statesman, Goethe's writings, both scientific and non-fiction, are considered to be influential masterpieces, referenced by the likes of Carl Jung and Fredrick Nietzsche. Learn about Geothe's contributions to Germany and the world as you visit his former house, now home to the Goethe Museum. Continue to the "New Old Town", filled with historical alleyways, picturesque courtyards and grand houses, reconstructed post-war to return the historic atmosphere to the heart of Frankfurt. Your private guide will accompany you to Stadthaus am Markt - City Hall on the Market Square where you will find evidence of Frankfurt's earliest settlements. With the discovery of three cultures- the Roman period, the Carolingian period and the High Middle ages - the Archaeological Garden was created to make the many years of history come to life.

Enjoy an afternoon on your own to explore the wonderful city of Frankfurt. You may want to take in the sweeping views of the Frankfurt Skyline from the 650 foot high platform located at the Main Tower - the city's only high-rise open to the public. Head to the Sachsenhausen district to sip Frankfurt's signature drink - apfelwein. This crisp, alcoholic apple cider is locally produced in the region, and it is best enjoyed in one of the oldest apple cider taverns dotting the historic, cobble-stoned streets of the Sachsenhausen district. You might also want to take a stroll and admire the flora at Palmengarten. Spread over 50 acres, this botanical garden houses over 6 thousand species from all over the world. Anyway you chose to spend your afternoon at leisure, you're sure to fall in love with the beauty and history of Frankfurt.

Set along Romerberg in Frankfurt’s historic Old Town, Zum Schwarzen Stern serves modern interpretations of Hessian classics, from schnitzel and regional sausages to seasonal German specialties prepared with fresh ingredients and care. Housed in a traditional building opposite the Romer, the restaurant offers a warm, character-filled setting with intimate dining spaces and a tucked-away conservatory. You’ll settle the bill at the restaurant, and we’ll confirm your reservation subject to availability.

Discover the rich heritage of Heidelberg and Speyer on a privately guided journey through Germany’s most historic sites, from medieval castles to UNESCO-listed cathedrals. Meet your private guide in Heidelberg for a full-day exploration of Germany’s intellectual heart. Begin with Heidelberg’s charming Baroque streets, visit the iconic 13th-century Heidelberg Castle nestled in lush forest, and admire the Old Bridge with its medieval gate and Baroque towers. Discover the Knight St. George, a renowned German Renaissance monument, and see the 17th-century Madonna at the Kornmarkt and the famous Castle Gardens. Afterward, take a short drive to Speyer, an ancient city with a rich history. Explore the Old Gate with its 13th-century tower, the 12th-century Jewish Baths, and the Baroque Trinity Church. Visit Speyer’s UNESCO-listed Romanesque cathedral, dating to 1030, with its unique crypt and imperial tombs. Return to Frankfurt for the evening.

Enjoy a scenic transfer from Frankfurt to Cologne today, with a visit to Hessenpark Open-Air Museum en route. Arriving at Hessenpark is like taking a genuine journey back through the ages. Built in 1974, this family-friendly park consists of more than 100 buildings which originated from villages across the region, many of which were carefully re-erected from the original materials. Some of the buildings even feature original furnishings, bringing 400 years of rural existence back to life. Meet with a private local guide and explore the grounds, divided into five groups, with each group representing a Hessian type of settlement typical of its place of origin. For centuries, village life was fundamentally shaped by agriculture. The exhibits on display include the processing of grain and fiber plants, as well as the daily care of animals, which will give visitors insight into the past life of the rural population during each of the four seasons. You can experience first-hand how crafts were practiced in the days of yore - which techniques were used, which devices were needed, which materials were processed, even what the final product was like. Visit the Emigration to America exhibition, with texts and visuals featuring explanations on the wave of emigration, from social and economic hardships to political persecution, also shedding light on the names of important Americans of Hessian origin. After your tour and some free time to explore independently, you'll continue with your transfer to Cologne.

Meet your private guide for an informative half-day walking tour of the beautiful 2,000-year-old city of Cologne. WWII saw the city largely damaged by air raids, leaving much of it in ruins, with nearly all the houses in the old town damaged and most of its churches destroyed. As you set out on this fascinating stroll back in time, Cologne's tumultuous history comes to life along its cobble-stoned lane-ways. Admire the UNESCO-listed Gothic Cathedral, seat of the Archbishop of Cologne, built in stages between the 13th-19th centuries, and later rebuilt after the aerial bombings of WWII. Continue your exploration as you make your way to the Town Hall, boasting a famous facade, and the Town Hall Tower, known as the first "high-rise" building in Cologne. This late Gothic-style tower has approximately 130 stone statues and the famous Platzjabbeck - a wooden face sculpture that sticks out its tongue when the tower clock strikes the hour. Stories of the past come to life as you make your way back along the the banks of the Rhine, making a stop at the colorful Old Market, an experience of daily life that has gone unchanged for generations.

Set out on foot with your private guide, experiencing Cologne's unique beer culture on a tasty walking tour through its spellbinding streets. German tradition shows us that each region or city specializes in its own specific type of beer, whose craft and flavors have been mastered over generations. For Cologne, that beer is Kolsch, and its history dates back to the 18th century. Fast-forward to today, where Kolsch is a defining feature of the city's brahaus - beer hall culture. Get ready to enjoy the subtle varieties of this brew as you visit some of the many local breweries, beer halls and restaurants where you'll be treated to a freshly tapped Kolsch, accompanied by traditional local delicacies. Try Himmel un Aad - a dish that is made up of black pudding and served with mash potatoes, fried onions and sweet apple sauce. You could also try the Kolscher Kaviar. Nothing like Russian Caviar, this is another local favorite consisting of blood sausage and raw onions. At the end of this delicious discovery you'll come away refreshed with a new knowledge of Cologne's famous beer and its finest local delicacies.

Discover your family's past with an on-site Ancestry Genealogist guide who knows the region's records, local historians, and communities. Guided by your Research Report, you’ll explore the places your family once called home. On this day you may walk the land they farmed, visit the church they attended, or meet distant relatives still living nearby. What you find goes deeper than any document ever could.

Explore Duren with your private driver, a river town near Cologne that has survived plague, war, and the devastating Allied bombing of WWII. The ruins of a 13th-century city wall and the Gothic Saint Anne's Church, built on the site of a Frankish royal palace, bring that history into view. The day can be customized around your specific family heritage, with your guide connecting the sites and stories most relevant to your roots across Duren and nearby towns including Bonn, Koblenz, and Eltz.

Meet your private driver and vehicle for a transfer to Bremen. Approximate travel time is 4 hours.

Make your way independently to the city center of Bremen where you'll meet up with your private guide for a walking tour of the city's historical center. A rich tapestry of Hanseatic heritage and cosmopolitan culture has been woven into the fabric of the city over 1200 years. Both modern and historical aspects are very present - the latter includes the impressive UNESCO World Heritage-listed Market Square, with the historical Weser Renaissance Town Hall and the graceful Roland statue. While in the square, your guide will tell you the stories behind the delightful sculpture of the Bremen Town Musicians, which remains a defining monument for the Grimm Brothers’ celebrated fairy tale. Uncover the city’s oldest living quarter at Schnoor, with its exceptional structures in historic Boettcherstrasse, and the imposing cathedral, etched in fascinating history. Cross the Weser River by the Great Weser Bridge to visit the Evangelical Church of Bremen. In 1522 as the Protestant Reformation was introduced throughout Germany, the church was known to be the first place a Protestant prayer took place in Bremen. After your tour your guide will escort you back to your hotel.

With your private driver, set out on a full day transfer to Hamburg, via the port city Bremerhaven, home to the German Emigration Center. Arriving to Bremerhaven, you'll meet your private local guide where together you'll discover an important chapter of German emigration at the German Emigration Center - Europe's largest theme-museum focused on emigration. With over seven million people arriving in Bremerhaven between 1830 and 1974, driven from their homes and wanting a better life, the departure point from Europe was the exact dock where today the Emigration Center is located. Through interactive exhibits and the professional insight of your guide you'll experience the entire emigration process. You'll also have access to a database of records to discover your own family heritage. Take time to reflect, remember and learn in this impactful monument to living history. Continue with a short stroll to the Schaufenster Fischereihafen along the city's historic fishing port - truly one of the most attractive maritime ports on the North Sea coast. The Fish Hall IV was originally situated where so many fish steamers once landed their catch. The site was built in 1990 with the main aim of giving visitors and locals alike an insight into the fishing history of Bremerhaven. With time at leisure, enjoy the vibrant market square or a meal at one of the many restaurants, cafes or bistros serving the freshest catch of the day prepared by local chefs. Afterward, rejoin your driver for your onward journey to Hamburg.

Meet your private driver and guide for a full-day tour of the seaside city of Hamburg. Start your tour at City Hall, the seat of local government located in the heart of the Old Town. Head along the Jungfernstieg promenade, a great place to soak in the unique vibe of this maritime hub. Next, enjoy a visit to the famous St. Michael’s Church. Built by Roman Catholics and converted to Protestantism during the Reformation, it's considered one of the finest Hanseatic Protestant Baroque churches in existence, and a prominent landmark of this vibrant city. Discover the Reeperbahn, an eclectic and lively spot featuring countless restaurants and theaters. Enjoy a visit to the HafenCity, known most famously for the Elbphilharmonic concert hall and the UNESCO-listed Speicherstadt, the largest, and perhaps the most picture-perfect warehouse district in the world. End your day's discovery with an exploration through the ages as you visit the largest rural cemetery in the world - the Ohlsdorf Cemetery. Established as a non-denominational and multi-regional burial site, it holds a large number of victims of war from many nations. As well as the burial ground, there is also a recreational area with an impressive mausoleum, ponds, sculptures and a funerary museum - an oasis of nature and peace. Conclude your tour with a return transfer to your hotel.

Step into Hamburg’s maritime past at Old Commercial Room, serving Hanseatic cuisine since 1795 beside St. Michael’s Church. North German classics such as Labskaus, lobster bisque, and tender beef roulade reflect the city’s seafaring traditions, paired with a curated international wine list. Distinct spaces including the historic main dining room, the Red Lounge, and the intimate Senate Room offer varied settings for your evening. You’ll settle the bill at the restaurant, and we’ll confirm your reservation subject to availability.

With a private guide and transportation, set out on a half-day tour of the Ballinstadt Emigration Museum, the former emigration station in the Port of Hamburg, gateway to the world for over 5 million emigrants between 1850 and 1934. The original Emigration Hall consisted of other 30 buildings, including dormitories, living areas, dining rooms, a church, synagogue, and rooms for medical examinations. Thousands of people from all over Europe arrived every week, waiting to depart to the Americas. Enjoy a 30-minute introductory lecture, then explore with your guide, uncovering the lives of emigrants through interactive displays, historical documents and exhibits. Take in the multimedia exhibit Simmigrant, which brings you through the role of an emigrant, allowing you to experience all the different stages of the emigration process, following in the footsteps of four generations of people looking for a better life in distant lands. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the family research center to discover your own ancestors' journey using the Ballinstadt database of US census lists and passenger lists from 1850 to 1934. Please let us know in advance if you would like us to arrange a professional Genealogist to assist you with this process. Conclude your tour with a return transfer to your hotel.

Hamburg’s unique architecture exudes the city’s undeniable maritime charm. Old edifices dating back to the days of the inception of the Hanseatic League seamlessly blend with new structures that reflect the timeless soul of a city that was built on the rich tradition of seafarers and sailors. Meet your private driver for a one-way transfer to port, where you'll embark a scenic hour-long harbor cruise, soaking in the beauty of this mesmerizing port city from a different perspective. Sail the waterways meandering among the red-brick warehouses of the UNESCO-recognized Speicherstadt, feel in awe of the striking Elbphilramonie in HafenCity and marvel at Hamburg’s impressive collection of bridges, locks, and cargo terminals.

A private transfer between your hotel and Hamburg Airport is provided. If you are first arriving to the airport, please note that your driver will meet you in the Arrivals Hall after you exit the luggage carousel area.

Conveniently located in the heart of Frankfurt adjacent to the city's celebrated opera house, the elegant Sofitel Frankfurt Opera is inspired by the grand Baroque-style mansions of 17th and 18th century Paris. Surrounded by the beautiful greenery of Taunusanlage park, Wilhelmina style buildings and haute couture boutiques, the hotel draws inspiration from the local culture while celebrating innovation and the French art of living to offer a one-of-a-kind, lavish hotel experience. The 151 rooms and suites are spacious and comfortable. Quality furnishings combine modernity with classic luxury, and rooms offer views over either the opera house or the park. At the unpretentious restaurant enjoy regional German cuisine with a French accent, complemented by an exclusive selection from the renowned vineyards of Germany, France and elsewhere. Serving as a sophisticated lounge during the day, traditional bar in the evening and concert venue on Thursdays, venture into the hotels feelgood bar where you'll find first-class drinks, outstanding cocktails and superior bar food. Allow yourself to be swept away on a voyage of deep relaxation at the hotel Spa, with massage techniques from many different cultures, luxurious beauty products from France and the priceless commodities of leisure and relaxation.

The Excelsior Hotel Ernst is Cologne’s Grand Hotel next to the Cathedral, focusing on providing individualized services to respond to the unique needs of every guest. As Grand Hotel in the heart of Cologne, the property actively participates in urban life and is committed to art and culture. Each of the beautifully appointed guest rooms provide all the modern amenities needed to make your stay truly unforgettable. The hotel has two restaurants and a piano bar serving French and East Asian cuisine, as well as delicious cocktails accompanied by live piano music. There is also a sauna and fitness area available to guests to maintain physical fitness while away from home.

Located in the heart of Bremen with a gorgeous position by Hollersee lake, Hommage Parkhotel Bremen is an enchanting place of subtle elegance with a touch of aristocratic luxury. For Bremen locals, it is an institution and the city’s parlor and living room; it forms an indispensable part of the city’s landscape and hosts people celebrating the important events in life. Parkhotel Bremen is a charming, unique mix of a cosmopolitan, grand-hotel ambiance with the intimate atmosphere of a family-run, boutique hotel. Guestrooms feature high quality contemporary furnishings, designed with the ideal blend of elegance, function, and comfort. Guests from all over the world appreciate the hotel’s indisputable elegance, a variety of comfortable rooms styled by renowned designers, delectable offerings and warmhearted hospitality. Dine on site, rejuvenate in a 13,000 sq.ft. wellness area with outdoor swimming pool, steam bath and ice grotto.

Located on the western side of the Inner Alster Lake shore in Germany, The Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten is in the heart of the prime retail and commercial district of Hamburg. Founded in 1897, the property is the essence of historical European tradition and offers an experience rich in spectacular charm and luxury. All rooms and suites have been thoughtfully designed with great attention to detail to meet the highest standards. Many rooms offer a breathtaking view over the Inner Alster Lake. From seasonally inspired menus to culinary experiences that will satisfy any craving, dining at Fairmont Vier Jahreszeiten is nothing short of spectacular. Settle into your beautiful room at Fairmont Vier Jahreszeiten and enjoy your home away from home.