Six Questions are numbered and listed in my ramblings below:

So we are flying into Frankfurt for 1 day, debating Hyatt Mainz (using my faster free night)? #1) votes/thoughts?

Next day in Munich via train (buying a 6 day unlimted 2nd class pass for 2 @ 332EU). Want to rent a car for Neuschwanstein, Andechs, Berchtesgaden, Eckbauer, and a few other highlights around the area. Two things: #2) any other must sees in/around Munich? Restaurant suggestions? We are tourists but we are not afraid to venture anywhere, and like to find hidden gems off the beaten trail. Hiking is also a must on this trip. #3) Rental Car - Right now I am looking at Medium Premium - BMW 3er - for aug31, 9am to sept3, 9am. Can't beat the American Airlines AWD with Avis for $260 out of Munich Airport. Any other ideas for rental cars? I dont mind paying double that for something really fun (like Panamera....) #4) Hotels - dont mind boutique, but I am not paying $300 a night. I am Plat with *wood so thinking that might be the way to go? Thoughts?

Next few days in Mosel with local friend.

Then 3 days in Prague via train. Will not have a rental car. #5) Must sees? Hotel Suggestions? Really cool spots to eat?

Next 2 days in Dresden (sept 9 &10). Thinking Westin because it looks nice and 101 EU per night seems pretty fair. #6) thoughts on this Westin? Must sees, Must eats?

Last 3 days just NW of Cologne - street festival with local friends.

Lots of stuff and I know its a ton of questions, but I am looking for any short responses, or even one single hotel/restaurant suggestion in any of the cities named.

This is the best forum, and this is the only group of people I have ever found that work harder than me for a deal. Stoked about my trip - thanks again in advance for your kind assistance!

P.S. VAT tax - when I was in Scotland I had to fill out these crappy forms for a couple of pounds. I think my Visa Signature has some kind of deal where they monitor and refund this. Anyone heard of this? Any other deals for Germany that tie to Visa Signature?