Ladies and gentlemen, introducing our two contenders. On the one hand, we have modern, efficient, history-laden Germany – the king of beer-guzzling, Bavarian outfits and neat cities stuffed with historical relics. On the other, we have the lovers of good food and great art, with architecture which tells stories of legends and great empires, and scenic beauty of the Mediterranean one on side, and alps on another – Italy. 

Germany

Berlin

The capital city of Germany owes much of its tourist influx to its World War II and Cold War history. Divided after WWII into zones of the East (Soviet Union) and the West (USA), the city became the centrepiece of the Cold War struggle and has the marks to show for it. Visit the Reichstag, which was the spot for perhaps one of the most iconic photographs in history of Soviet soldiers planting the Communist flag atop its crumbling structure. Or visit the Brandenburg Gate – noted for its similarity to the Arc de Triumphe in France. Most of the notorious Berlin Wall has now been demolished, but you can still see sections of it near the Reichstag and Checkpoint Charlie.

Munich

Easily one of the most popular cities in Germany (although Berlin, Hamburg and Frankfurt give it a worthy competition), Munich is known for its culture and of course, the Oktoberfest. Beyond the beer-guzzling, Munich’s acclaimed arts and culture scene comes alive in its many opera houses and theatres such as the National Theatre. Medieval walls, ancient churches and majestic palaces sit along with teeming marketplaces and entertainment districts for the tourist to enjoy a curious sensation of being in two different eras at the same time.

How to Get There

A flight to Berlin or Munich is always available, courtesy the large fleet of Lufthansa and, of course, the country’s notoriety with both tourists and students. Apart from Lufthansa, carriers such as Turkish Airlines, Etihad, Qatar Airways, Jet Airways and Air India operate a busy schedule to airports in Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt. . If you wish to book your ticket, please search here.

Italy

Rome: Rome was once caput mundi or the capital of the world for a reason. Discover why as you explore the charming streets and majestic sights in this Eternal City. Centuries old basilicas and historic monuments are found in abundance here. The historical Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine are Rome’s most prominent structures. The Pantheon is an architectural marvel that was built to honour the Gods. It’s the largest unsupported and reinforced dome in the world. Locally known as Scalina Spagna, the Spanish Steps are always bustling with locals and tourists. The Trevi Fountain is undoubtedly one of the most iconic fountains in the world. Representative of Baroque style architecture, toss a coin in to the fountain and make a wish.

Venice: Venice is built on an archipelago of 118 islands formed by about 150 canals in a shallow lagoon. These islands are connected by about 400 bridges and the resulting waterways and walkways define beautiful Venice. The most notable sites include St. Mark's Square with St. Mark's Basilica reflects Venetian wealth and power from the 11th century, the Rialto Bridge spanning the Grand Canal and the grand Gothic palace, Palazzo Ducale, the  residence of the Doge of Venice, the supreme authority of the former Republic of Venice.

Milan: Milan is where history and art come together. While here, visit the Duomo, the world's largest Gothic cathedral and the third largest church in Europe and the Piazza del Duomo, a colossal spire cathedral built in the shape of a cross. Art lovers will enjoy the Ambrosiana Library and Picture Gallery with its collection of art from masters such as Botticelli, Raphael and Da Vinci and Santa Maria delle Grazie where Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Last Supper painting is housed.  Don’t leave Milan without taking an excursion to the Italian Renaissance church in the Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica, which is the centre of Christianity and home to the Pope. This is also where you can view the grand Sistine Chapel, the ornate frescoed ceiling by Michelangelo.

How To Get There
Major international airlines including Alitalia, Air France, Air India, Jet Airways and Etihad Airways operate flights from India to Rome. Check for available flights from your city here.

 

Destination	Rome, Italy	Berlin, Germany
Hotels (centrally located)	Rs. 6,528 per night (Standard room atVerona Hotel) Rs. 8,815 per night (Standard room atHotel Colosseum) Rs. 14,251 (Classic room at Hotel Majestic Roma)	Rs. 6,900 per night (single room)
Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner without alcohol)	Rs. 3,000 per day	Rs. 3,200 per day
Local Transportation (public bus)	Rs. 100 per ticket	Rs. 205 per ticket
Miscellaneous	Rs. 3,500 per day	Rs. 2,900 per day

*All prices are approximate and subject to change.

Both Germany and Italy are classic European holiday destinations. This makes them all the more worth exploring for the unique experiences that can be head unlike anywhere else in the world.