🇩🇪 Bamberg, DE to Potsdam, DE 🇩🇪

Day 7: We began the day exploring the charming old town of Bamberg, known for its preserved medieval architecture and network of bridges that earned it the nickname “Franconian Rome.” The town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993 and played a key role in the Holy Roman Empire. The distinctive half-timbered buildings and Bamberg Cathedral offered a rich visual history lesson, all bathed in morning sunlight.

By 10:30 a.m., we hit the road for a long drive northward, stopping midday at Mittelbau-Dora, a former Nazi concentration camp near Nordhausen. Originally built in 1943 to support underground production of the V-2 rocket, the site illustrates the dark intersection of forced labor and wartime technology. Over 20,000 prisoners died here under brutal conditions. The memorial today includes portions of the underground tunnels, barracks, and a museum that documents this harrowing chapter of history.

Later, we took a short break at Münzenberg Castle, a 12th-century hilltop fortress with twin Romanesque towers. It served as a symbol of imperial power during the High Middle Ages and offers panoramic views across the Wetterau region. A scenic and well-preserved spot to stretch our legs.

The final leg of the day took us through busy weekend autobahn traffic to Potsdam, where we arrived at the home of friends Ulrich and Heidi just before 7 p.m. We were welcomed with a hearty spaghetti dinner and a cozy evening of stories and laughter—a perfect end to a full day. Being back in their home, surrounded by familiar faces and warm hospitality, was a highlight for all of us, especially Sebastian, who continues to get a deeper look into life with German families.Read more