We have a 10 night vacation planned for mid-September, flying into FRA. When I booked the (good deal) air tickets, I didn't realize the dates included Oktoberfest. So last half of the trip will be in Munich for a few days, then the final 3 nights in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. But for the first 4 nights I've spent months going back & forth on where to visit.

Right now I've got the Hyatt in Mainz booked for some time in that area. Everything I've booked can be cancelled so am still debating if I should chose another area. We enjoy visiting wineries here in California; initially I was thinking Strasbourg but then decided when in Germany for a only a short time why not stay there. Have thought about Gengenbach to visit the Black Forest. Booked and cancelled Heidelberg; ditto Stuttgart.

Plan to travel by train and avoid renting a car if possible. I have a lot of IHG points, some Club Carlson. However, hotels in Germany seem reasonably priced so using points isn't a necessity. My husband and myself--prefer picturesque towns, museums, castles vs. hiking or outdoor sports. My normal MO is trying to cram as many places into a short time; however, trying to avoid that this trip and stay at least 3 nights in each place. I get it now--each time you pack and move takes a lot of hours of my precious vacation time.

Really am having a hard time making a choice at this point. Appreciate suggestions from anyone who's familiar with Germany.