Well it ain't the cologne!>

who's going to Cologne?

You could take an overnight CNL CityNightLiner train from Berlin to Munich - save travel time and the cost of a night in a hotel.

while in Berln, do do a day trip to Potsdam. The palaces and grounds are outstanding.

if you want typical german/austrian fare, the http://www.alter-stadtwaechter.de/near the Brandenburger Tor is very good.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is very touristy but you will get your medieval Germany fix here. It was the place that inspired Disneyland's storybookland, the animation village/home of Pinocchio/Gephetto and chitty chitty bang bang was filmed here...the child catcher's paddy wagon is actually parked outside the medieval crime/law museum which is well translated in English...basically outlines the introduction of law/order and punishment, including torture devices and documented court protocols of witch trials. The very famous Christmas markets are here so you can pick up a handmade ornament to take home. A round snowball pastry is the city's local delicacy, try a mini one with a coffee. There is a Glockenspiel on the marketplace. The city is walled with several picturesque gateways.

Yovowel (sp?) to Potsdam and Sanns Soucci Palacxe - the Prussian Versailles built by Frederck I A K A the Great I believe - set in a sprawling lush park with a delight at every turn - the so-called follies - whimsical structures and also things Chinese, representing an era when folks were fascinated with China motifs. An easy S-bahn trip and the city of Potsdam has a lot to to offer.

Rothenburg is IME best savored after the tour bus hoards have departed - then the city takes on a real sweet medieval feel.

Thank you, friends!