Tour California Bucket List: Road Trip Dreams & National Wonders

Meals

Catering depending on selected accommodation

Accommodation

Overnight stays in accommodation of your choice: 2 nights in Palm Springs 2 nights at Sequoia National Park 2 nights at Yosemite National Park 1 night at Lake Tahoe 2 nights in San Francisco 1 night in Morro Bay 2 nights in Los Angeles

Transport

Rental car of the selected vehicle class for the entire duration of the trip Rental car package with unlimited free kilometers, theft & comprehensive insurance

Others

Checked baggage and hand baggage as specified by the selected airline Air traffic tax, airport and flight security fees Rental car of the selected vehicle class for the entire duration of the trip Rental car package with unlimited free mileage, fully comprehensive and theft protection 24-hour emergency hotline during the entire trip Travel insurance certificate for package tours

Flights

Scheduled flights to Los Angeles and back (transfer possible)

Not included:

Optional

Train to flight ticket with Deutsche Bahn Hotel upgrades as per itinerary

Insurance

Guide

Others

Tour guide Visa fees Local taxes and fees Costs for optional excursions and entrance fees Fuel, parking and toll fees as well as fines for possible traffic violations Refundable deposit to be paid on site by the driver’s credit card

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Desert Dreams: Welcome To Palm Springs!
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Desert Dreams: Welcome To Palm Springs!

Can you feel the tingling in your stomach? That’s the feeling when dreams finally come true! Today is the day: your very own American Dream is about to come true. So hop on the plane that will take you to Los Angeles in no time at all. Thanks to the time difference, you arrive on the same day. Crazy, isn’t it? When you get off the plane, the warm California sun is shining on your face and you’re beaming back! Ready for a road trip? Then let’s go! Your rental car is waiting for you at the airport and just a few minutes later you’re stepping on the gas pedal on the highway while Los Angeles gets smaller and smaller in the rear-view mirror. Your destination? Palm Springs or Palm Desert in the Sonora Desert! With 350 days of sunshine a year, Palm Springs is popular with many Hollywood stars for good reason. Will you also enjoy the Hollywood feeling by the pool or will you follow in the footsteps of desert modernism? The retro architecture bears the signature of renowned architects and is the hallmark of the desert city!
Day 2 Day 2: Mojave Desert: Joshua Trees &Amp; The Legendary Route 66!
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Mojave Desert: Joshua Trees &Amp; The Legendary Route 66!

Even late risers like to get up early for the famous Joshua Tree National Park. The bizarre Joshua Trees - a type of yucca tree - are just a stone’s throw from Palm Springs (entrance fee payable locally). In the middle of the Mojave Desert, bright green cacti and giant palm trees tower up into the bright blue sky. And that’s not all: with a bit of luck, you might spot iguanas, coyotes and unusual bird species in the surreal desert landscape, which bears the hallmarks of wind, rain and climatic extremes. So it’s high time to take a closer look at the park! And the best way to do this is on a hike along the Nature Valley Trail: massive boulders, oaks, pines, cacti and the famous Joshua Trees accompany you.
As soon as you get back behind the wheel of your rental car, the next highlight awaits: Route 66! You can’t get more American than that! Turn up the music, let the wind blow around your nose and enjoy the pure road trip feeling.
Day 3 Day 3: Movie Magic Moments: Road Trip To The Vasquez Rocks
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Movie Magic Moments: Road Trip To The Vasquez Rocks

The sun has barely woken you up and you’re already on the road with your sunshine playlist playing. And the sky’s the limit! Are you a Star Trek fan? Then a stop at Vasquez Rocks is a must - after all, this is a well-known film setting from the series. In the park, you will find bizarre rock formations and viewpoints that provide the perfect photo backdrop - an absolute must-see, even for non-fans! The road winds its way up the mountain in endless curves. You stop to enjoy the view of the valley and the mountains and never miss a photo spot.
After an exciting road trip stage, you reach Sequoia. Your stomach must be growling by now - no problem, because there is no shortage of restaurants in the area. Whether typical American or international: there is something for every taste here! Relax at the end of the evening and enjoy the anticipation of your upcoming adventure.
Day 4 Day 4: Sequoia National Park: Big, Bigger, Sequoia Trees!
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Sequoia National Park: Big, Bigger, Sequoia Trees!

The anticipation wakes you up early - gigantic redwood trees and beautiful nature await you! So get behind the wheel and off you go into the national park. In the Giant Forest you will see the impressive giant sequoias. But one in particular stands out: the General Sherman Tree! According to its volume, this is the mightiest tree in the world, almost 85 meters high and with a circumference of a proud 31 meters. You’ve never seen such an impressive tree before. You pull out your camera and realize: It almost doesn’t fit on a photo! Do you fancy a hike? Then there are two hikes to choose from: A short hike to Crescent Meadow or a hike to the summit of Moro Rock, where you have a unique view of the national park. Unforgettable views guaranteed!
Day 5 Day 5: On The Road: Yosemite, Here I Come!
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: On The Road: Yosemite, Here I Come!

Fancy a new adventure? Perfect, then get behind the wheel of your rental car and off you go. After just a few kilometers, it’s clear: the journey is the destination! Enjoy the freedom on the roads and the untouched nature around you. You let the wind blow around your nose, gaze into the endless expanses and are absolutely certain: this is the American way of life!
And suddenly you’re right in the middle of it! As soon as you enter the national park for the first time, it’s clear: it’s beautiful here. Endless crystal-clear lakes, huge forests and snow-capped mountain peaks as far as the eye can see. How about one of the most beautiful viewpoints first? From Tunnel View you have the best view of the El Capitan rock massif, Bridalveil Falls and Yosemite Valley. It’s like looking through a tunnel into the valley, which is surrounded by countless mountains.
Day 6 Day 6: Scenic Views: Thundering Waterfalls &Amp; Untouched Wilderness
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Scenic Views: Thundering Waterfalls &Amp; Untouched Wilderness

Want to immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness of Yosemite National Park? Let’s go! Discover the mighty Nevada and Vernal Falls on an adventure hike or opt for the Yosemite Falls, which are just a short walk away and boast a crystal-clear lake that reflects the mountains and forests. Another spectacular viewpoint awaits you in the afternoon: Glacier Point. At an altitude of over 2,000 meters, you can look out over Vernal & Nevada Falls and the Half Dome mountain range. The winding drive up to the summit in particular provides plenty of action (optional shuttle also available)! If you still have a little time left, you should definitely pay a visit to the famous sequoia trees! In the Mariposa Grove nature reserve, you can walk among 2000-year-old giants that stretch up to 90 meters into the sky. Wow!
Day 7 Day 7: The Bigger, The Better: North America’S Largest Mountain Lake!
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: The Bigger, The Better: North America’S Largest Mountain Lake!

The Californian sunshine literally invites you to spend the day by the water. But you wouldn’t be in the land of superlatives if you didn’t head for the largest mountain lake in the United States - let’s go! Lake Tahoe welcomes you with crystal-clear water and a fantastic view of the Sierra Nevada. Numerous hiking trails lead through the wild nature around the lake and take you to the most beautiful viewpoints. The scent of pine forest is everywhere. How about a walk to Eagle Rock? Enjoy an impressive view over the lake from the rocky plateau. The water is bright turquoise and you can take a quick dip in the cool water from the beach. You can relax at Sand Harbour or hire a kayak (optional, payable locally) and paddle along the lake. The last must-see for today: Emerald Bay, also known as Emerald Bay, with the small Fannette Island - the perfect photo opportunity!
Day 8 Day 8: San Francisco: Chasing Golden Dreams &Amp; Cable Cars
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: San Francisco: Chasing Golden Dreams &Amp; Cable Cars

You swap idyllic nature for urban jungle. Put the pedal to the metal and off you go again towards the sea!
Suitcases stowed away? Then start your discovery tour in Market Street in Downtown, at the turning point of the famous cable cars. So why not hop on right away and explore the city on the historic rails (optional, payable locally)? Especially recommended: the Powell-Hyde line, which runs from Powell across the city to northern Hyde. Stopover at Union Square - a must! Restaurants, cafés, boutiques and other stores are lined up here. No wonder it’s one of the city’s meeting places! Continue on to one of the most famous photo spots and probably the most winding street in the world: Lombard Street. The red cobbled street winds its way downhill in eight bends - surrounded by a veritable sea of flowers. Of course, one must-see is still missing: the Golden Gate Bridge! At the terminus in Hyde, the iconic bridge shines in all its glory. So, don’t forget your camera!
Day 9 Day 9: Fisherman’S Wharf: Between Sea Lions &Amp; Historic Ships
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Fisherman’S Wharf: Between Sea Lions &Amp; Historic Ships

San Francisco is just waiting to be discovered by you and nothing will keep you in your hotel room. So off you go! Thick fog greets you as you step out onto the street - but don’t worry, it will clear as the day progresses. You make your way to the famous harbor district of Fisherman’s Wharf. From Aquatic Park Pier, you walk along the coastline and catch a glimpse of a very special city landmark: Alcatraz Prison Island. Your path will take you past the Maritime National Historical Park, where several historic ships are moored and can be visited (admission payable on site). The closer you get to Pier 39, the louder the spectacle of the sea lions living in the wild can be heard - a truly entertaining show! Do you like it sweet? Then don’t miss out on a visit to the famous Ghirardelli chocolate factory! You can even taste the chocolate.
Day 10 Day 10: Highway Highlights: Big Sur-Prise &Amp; 17-Mile Drive
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Highway Highlights: Big Sur-Prise &Amp; 17-Mile Drive

The day is all about the road trip along the famous Highway 1. Experience the feeling that inspired songs like "California Dreaming" - hopefully you have the right playlist! Take your time for the famous 17 Mile Drive and don’t miss out on any of the numerous photo spots! The route winds its way along beautiful coastal golf courses and grand villas - you’ll soon be standing in front of the famous Lone Cypress, a solitary cypress tree perched on a rock in front of Carmel Bay - iconic! Your path leads directly to the next must-see: Bixby Creek Bridge ahead. The reinforced concrete arch bridge was built in 1932 and looks impressive with its 80-metre-high pillars. Not far away is a particularly rare highlight of Californian nature: a waterfall that plunges directly onto a sandy beach, surrounded by turquoise blue water and dark cliffs - wow.
Once you arrive in Morro Bay, you can end the evening on the beach with Morro Rock.
Day 11 Day 11: Los Angeles: Welcome To The City Of Angels!
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Los Angeles: Welcome To The City Of Angels!

Streets lined with palm trees, the radiant sun in the sky, the sound of the sea in the distance and the occasional celebrity who crosses your path - Los Angeles welcomes you with a real program of contrasts! What you’ve only seen in movies and series so far is waiting for you to experience it today. So get in your rental car, put the pedal to the metal and off you go!
See for yourself how the stars and starlets live in the metropolis on the Pacific coast. Take a detour to Beverly Hills, stroll along the famous Walk of Fame and take a closer look at the more than 2,500 shimmering pink stars on the ground. What should not be missed on an L.A. trip, of course? The famous Hollywood Sign! You can enjoy a perfect view of it at the Griffith Observatory.
Day 12 Day 12: California Dreaming: Movie Spots &Amp; Beach Vibes
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: California Dreaming: Movie Spots &Amp; Beach Vibes

Do you already feel like you’re in a movie? At the latest when you stand on the famous Santa Monica Pier and look at the brightly colored Ferris wheel and the rattling roller coaster, this feeling spreads through you! After all, this setting has already served as the backdrop for many films! The view of the Californian coast and the ocean from the wooden bridge is simply stunning and your finger on the shutter of your camera makes for a perfect souvenir photo. Of course, Venice Beach should not be missed on your discovery tour. The Ocean Front Walk is bustling with life - there’s no other place where you can experience the California lifestyle as closely as here! On Muscle Beach, musclemen work out while artists spread out their masterpieces between the graffiti-covered buildings, restaurants and cafés. Street musicians provide the best entertainment while you enjoy a cool drink.
Day 13 Day 13: City Of Stars: Up Close And Personal With The Stars &Amp; Starlets
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: City Of Stars: Up Close And Personal With The Stars &Amp; Starlets

How about a hike on Runyon Canyon to start the day? This trail is also very popular with celebrities. So there’s a good chance you’ll bump into one or two stars who are currently on a hiking tour themselves! Once you reach the top, you also have a wonderful view of the sprawling metropolis. Had enough of sightseeing? Then it’s time to go shopping! Or at least window shopping, because Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is lined with one designer store after the next. But don’t worry: you’ll find plenty of stores with more affordable prices in the surrounding streets. And there is no shortage of restaurants in the area either. Whether typically American or international, there is something for everyone here!
The departure is fast approaching. Full of souvenirs and memories in your luggage, you drive your rental car towards the airport. You quickly drop off the rental car, make yourself comfortable in your seat on the plane and reflect on the adventures of the last few days.
Day 14 Day 14: Home Again: Welcome Back!
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Home Again: Welcome Back!

Slowly you wake up and you are already on the landing approach. Shortly afterwards, the plane touches down and it’s time to say welcome back home! As soon as you pick up your suitcase, your fingers are itching to tell your friends and family about all your unique experiences.

+11

14 days tour

California Bucket List: Road Trip Dreams & National Wonders

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Itinerary of your trip California Bucket List: Road Trip Dreams & National Wonders

Day 1: Desert Dreams: Welcome To Palm Springs!

Day 2: Mojave Desert: Joshua Trees &Amp; The Legendary Route 66!

Day 3: Movie Magic Moments: Road Trip To The Vasquez Rocks

Day 4: Sequoia National Park: Big, Bigger, Sequoia Trees!

Day 5: On The Road: Yosemite, Here I Come!

Day 6: Scenic Views: Thundering Waterfalls &Amp; Untouched Wilderness

Day 7: The Bigger, The Better: North America’S Largest Mountain Lake!

Day 8: San Francisco: Chasing Golden Dreams &Amp; Cable Cars

Day 9: Fisherman’S Wharf: Between Sea Lions &Amp; Historic Ships

Day 10: Highway Highlights: Big Sur-Prise &Amp; 17-Mile Drive

Day 11: Los Angeles: Welcome To The City Of Angels!

Day 12: California Dreaming: Movie Spots &Amp; Beach Vibes

Day 13: City Of Stars: Up Close And Personal With The Stars &Amp; Starlets

Day 14: Home Again: Welcome Back!

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