County to Tack onto Germany trip

Doing something close would be best. You have been to France, but have you been to the Alsace and Colmar? Same with Austria, Salzburg and the mountain region are nearby.

Not on your list, but close, would be the Czech Republic, Pilzen and Prague are nice.

I love open-ended, dreaming of travel questions! Well for ease of travel, the Czech Republic is very close to southern Germany. We were surprised by how much we enjoy Prague and wished we'd had more time in the country. Or the Netherlands? You could visit Amsterdam and easily fly home. Or even Belgium. Again, could be easy to get home afterward. If we're just dreaming of favorite countries, I think Ireland is my favorite that's not on your list. Dublin's a unique and enjoyable town and the country has wild, beautiful scenery with very friendly locals. With the English and relaxed locals, it's the least stressful overseas destination I've ever visited!

We very much enjoyed a three week trip that combined Germany and the Netherlands. But I would very much enjoy combining anywhere with the Netherlands. We’ve been to Amsterdam several times and it’s a favorite. I love the museums, the canals, the architecture. Amsterdam was the richest city on the planet in the 17th century. I sometimes wonder whether the perfect continuity of the historic center comes from the fact that they experienced a fairly rapid and meteoric rise and it was all built of a piece, uniformly, richly and in a relatively short period of time. All of the Netherlands is great in my book as we have expanded our visits over the years. And I like the Dutch. I like their open mindedness and tolerance. A lot. Just watch out for the bicycles. English is very widely spoken as well if that’s a factor. When I asked someone how to say Good Morning in Dutch, he smiled and replied, “Don’t bother.” Safe travels.

Go to Poland, it's right next door and very pretty and light on the wallet. As a caveat, I'm from there...so feel free to PM me with any questions. The folks on this forum who went there had positive experiences, so that's also why I would recommend it.

Austria, especially Salzburg and surrounding area are convenient and one of my favorite areas. As mentioned, Strasburg and Alsace are also close and very nice.

The last 3 trips we have returned thru Iceland - a stopover is easy using Icelandair. I don‘t know if they fly into Houston, they do to Denver which is great for me. Lots of unique sites and activities ( expensive however ! )

Staying fairly close is easier than jetting halfway across the continent. I'd consider the Czech Republic if you want to broadly stay in the region of central-ish Europe and go somewhere you have not been.

If you are open to flying and going further afield in Europe, then definitely consider Greece. It's so historically and culturally important, as well as just fun. Fall is a great time, because it gets pretty hot in the summer. Definitely go to Athens, then maybe the Pelopponese - Nafplio is my favorite town. Then you can look at the islands, too - some will be getting pretty quiet by fall, but others will be more lively.

Germany and Czech Rep. will make more of a logical trip, going from Germany to Greece will be totally different. That could be a plus or a minus.

It does depend on where you went in the many countries you mention. If you have not visited the Dolomite Region of Italy (SudTirol) it is quite different from farther south combining its Austrian heritage with Italian enthusiasm. It is easily reached from southern Germany by train or car. Otherwise, I also think the Czech Republic is a good addition.

Poland, Czechia, or Hungary.

Another vote for Poland or Czechia. I absolutely LOVED Krakow, and Prague is an amazing city. Both countries offer more than those places, of course, but just as great starting points and geographically logical from what you have posted. Those would be my first instinct based on your post.

Alternatively, you could consider some of the microcountries. Most people overlook beautiful Liechtenstein, and San Marino is still a favourite memory. The low countries (Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg) would also be nice options.

Finally, there is the option of simply seeing more of Germany or a country you have already visited.

How about considering one or two or all three of the low countries. They're close to where you're planning to be. Unfortunately, I've never visited any of them (yet?).

I agree that the Benelux countries are a good option. They are well connected with Germany by train.

And I also have to mention Denmark, even if it is not that close to Oberammergau.

Excellent ideas. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your ideas with me.