Have you dreamed of going on a road-tripping adventure, but you’re not sure even what country to start in?
Germany is one of the most beautiful countries. Check out our favorite routes, there’s a perfect road journey waiting for you!
1) The Romantic Route: Bavaria
Why you Should Try the Romantic Route
Bavaria is the oldest known holiday route in Germany. Settled amongst lush green meadows and mighty towering castles, the road of Bavaria is one of the most stunning in Germany. Referred to as ‘The Romantic Road,’ it runs between Wurzburg and Fussen and offers over 400km of beautiful roadside scenery.
It starts at Wurzburg, where you can find the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wurzburg Residenz. It’s certainly a sight to marvel at before your departure! We suggest hitting this Route from North to South, there are 28 stops in total, but some are pretty small. You’ll quickly hit 10 spots per day without feeling as though you are rushing through things.
If you don’t fancy making the journey by car. It’s also possible to cycle the Romantic Road. There is a designated cycling path running the whole way through.
Romantic Route Itinerary
Driving Itinerary Distance Driving Time
Frankfurt to Wurzburg 122 km 1 hour 16 minutes
Wurzburg to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 64 km 44 minutes
Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Nordlingen 85 km 1 hour 4 minutes
Nordlingen to Augsburg 75 km 1 hour
Augsburg to Hohenschwangau 102 km 1 hour 23 minutes
Hohenschwangau to Munich Airport 154 km 1 hour 46 minutes
What Makes the Romantic Road Special?
The Route was created in 1950 as a way to rebuild tourism in Germany after the war. Some of its first visitors were Americans who had family members stationed in bases along the Route. Soon after this, tourism here boomed!
One of the most popular attractions along this Route is its stunning fairy tale castles. Neuschwanstein is one of our favorites and resembles a floating castle amongst the craggy mountains.
It certainly inspired a lot of characters. In fact, Walt Disney modeled the Cinderella castle after it!
Activities along the Route
One of the most incredible spots along this Route is the small town of Nordlingen which is built inside a meteorite crater! Did you know that the entire city wall is still intact? So it’s possible to walk the whole way around it.
Another town you shouldn’t miss is Augsburg. It’s one of the oldest cities in Germany and oozes cultural charm. The Mariendom cathedral is one of the most beautiful we’ve seen on our Germany roadside adventures. We’d suggest spending at least half a day here.
Fairytale castles are, of course, a given on the most romantic road in Germany. Our favorites are the castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. Here you can spend hours exploring the history of Bavarian kings that controlled the lands. It’s got some of the most stunning viewpoints out into the deep mystical verdant green forests.
The three most popular medieval towns are Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbuhl and Nordlingen. These cobblestone villages are amongst some of the most frequently explored by tourists. So you’re sure to find plenty of places to stay as a pitstop along the way.
Where to Stay during the Romantic Road?
Hotel Rubezahl
If you’re doing the trip in three days, the first stop we’d recommend is overnight in Neuschwanstein. You can’t miss waking up to the most stunning castle view in the morning! Hotel Rubezahl has the best view of the Castle and a great selection of Alpine-based spa therapies to relax and wind down after exploring.
Burg Hotel Tauber Valley
If you want a traditional sort of stay in one of the romantic village towns. Burg Hotel is a tiny 15-bedroom historic medieval house set in the town of Rothenburg with its own gardens. Breakfast is one of our favorite moments to savor with panoramic views out to the verdant green countryside.
2) The German Alpine Route: Constance to Berchtesgaden
Why the German Alpine Route is Special
The German Alpine Route is the oldest themed Route in the country. It’s got some of the most stunning natural scenery. Actually, the landscape is decorated with rugged snow-capped mountains, beautiful tall-standing castles, and over 20 alpine lakes. It’s a trip of a lifetime!
The Route stretches for 450km through the Bavarian Alps from the town of Lindau to Lake Constance west to east. You’ll pass through glacial valleys, stunning lakes, and mystical castles before reaching Ski resorts offering year-round activities for those with a spirit of adventure.
It’s the best Route for experiencing a typical Bavarian mountain landscape with dazzling green scenery. You’ll finish at the Berchtesgaden Alps, traveling along Germany’s highest scenic road, the Rossfeld-Panoramic.
German Alpine Route Itinerary
Driving Itinerary Distance Driving Time
Lake Constance to Western Allgau 30 km 30 minutes
Crossing the Oberjoch Pass 65 km 1 hour
Castles and Lake stretch 35 km 30 minutes
Upper Bavaria 73 km 1 hour 10 minutes
Crossing Kesselberg Pass 43 km 45 minutes
Tegernsee and Schliersee 70 km 1 hour 5 minutes
Chiemgau region 66 km 55 minutes
Berchtesgadener Land 35 km 30 minutes
Why You Should Try the German Alpine Route
This Route is one of the most exhilarating drives and not for the faint-hearted! Did you know that the Oberjoch Pass from the lake of Grosser Alpsee to the traditional town of Immenstadt has over 106 bends in a 65km radius! However, the panoramic views make the car sickness totally worth it!
Along the way, you’ll also pass through the healing fields of Pfronten. The medicinal hay, herbs, and plants that grow in its endless meadows are believed to have healing powers!
Activities to Do along the German Alpine Route
A short but worthy detour is a visit to the stunning Scheidegger waterfall. It lies just off the Allgau peaks and is a sight you certainly should not miss if you’re seeking stunning natural scenery.
You’ll pass through some similar spots in the Romantic Road on this Route. We’d suggest stopping off at one of the three lakes halfway through your journey at Weissensee, Hopfensee, or Forggensee. They are perfect for strolling around to stretch your legs or even taking a refreshing dip after a long time spent on the road!
If you’re an adrenaline junkie or prefer to hit the road by bike. In Bad Hindelang, the Oberjoch Pass is famous for being a must-hit spot for motorbikers. It’s got over 106 bends and is over 300m in altitude. That’s a German record!
The Baroque architecture of Oberammergau can’t be missed either on your adventures. It’s one of the most quaint towns we have ever set our eyes on!
Where to Stay the German Alpine Route
Hotel Sommer
Offering an amazing view out to the Neuschwanstein Castle, Hotel Sommer is a great way to start your adventure! It’s located by the Allgau Alps and has the most beautiful panoramic views.
Hotel Bold
Located in the final town of Oberammergau, Romantik Hotel Bold has one of the most stunning scenic views of the Ammergau Alps. It’s got very reasonable prices and is a beautiful place to stay all year round.
3) The Panoramic Black Forest Route
Why You Should Try the Panoramic Black Forest Route
The Black Forest is a mystical dense pine forest decorated with fairytale-like villages in the north of Germany on the border of Switzerland. Known as the B500, it’s referred to as one of the most beautiful driving routes in Europe! It runs almost the entire length of the forest, which is over 150km.
The Route passes through significant points surrounding the forest, including Baden Baden, Kniebes, Triberg, Schluchsee, and Koblenz, where you’ll typically finish in the south. It’s a great route to do all year round. However, be careful in the summer as it gets pretty busy.
It’s possible to do this Route in three days as a round trip, stopping off at different locations on your way, so you’re genuinely seeing all sights in this mystical forest!
Panoramic Black Forest Route Itinerary
Driving Itinerary Distance Driving Time
Baden Baden to Sand Hundseck 25 km 30 minutes
Mummelsee 15 km 15 minutes
Kniebis to Freudenstadt 21 km 30 minutes
Total Route 60 km 2 hours
Interesting facts about the Panoramic Black Forest Route
For foodie lovers, this is the road trip for you. The forest is home to the desert of the same name, the Black Forest cake. Its origins come from the cherry trees you find in the woods. History tells us that a tree would be planted to celebrate newly married couples in the region!
Another fun fact about this Route is that you’ll actually pass by Germany’s largest waterfall, Triberger. At 163m, it’s certainly something to marvel at! It’s a great hiking route if you want to stop and stretch your legs on the driver. The trail is well located and around 3km long as a circular route. So it’s possible to do it all year round.
Activities to Do on the Panoramic Black Forest Route
Mount Feldberg by Lake Schulsee is the highest peak in the Black Forest. It’s got one of the most stunning 360 panoramic views, so you definitely can’t miss this high point whilst on your driving adventure.
If you want to relax a little after your driving adventure, why not try a spa! The Caracalla Therme Spa is one of the best in Europe. The naturally hot springs are one of the best ways to wind down after an adventurous day. It’s believed the waters have natural healing properties too!
The final spot you shouldn’t miss is a pit stop at the village of Bad Sackingen. We adored this scenic little village, which is also home to the longest covered wooden footbridge in Europe.
Where to stay during the Panoramic Black Forest Route
Hotel Belle Epoque
Located in Baden Baden, this hotel is a refurbished 19th-century villa with the most stunning gardens. Its location is prime for exploring the town in the evening. You’re a short walk away from the thermal baths and Baden’s Lichtentaler Allee, one of the most famous festival halls.
Brenner Park-Hotel & Spa
If you really feel like spoiling yourself on your Germany road trip adventure (we think you should!) Brenner Park-Hotel is the best way to do this. It’s got its very own Michelin star restaurant on-site and the best spa facilities in Baden Baden. It’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime hotel experiences.
4) The Castle Route
Why this Route is Special
The name for this Route really speaks for itself. It’s an endless trail of beautiful historic castles that spans over 780KM.
You’ll start in Koln before journeying to one of Germany’s most beautiful castles, Mespelbrunn. After, you head to the historic town of Stuttgart where we suggest doing an overnight stay, as there are lots for you to do here in the evenings.
You’ll then venture to many more quaint villages with their own towering castles, such as Heidelberg and Koblenz. Eltz Castle is where we suggest stopping off for a tour to discover 850 years of unique history.
The great thing about this Route is that it’s circular. So you’ll explore lots of different sites (and castles) before ending back up in Koln. Not one Castle you’ll stop by is the same.
From Rheinstein Castle, which is built into the hills on the river, to the regal imperial gates of Cochem castle and the stunning white stone of Stolzenfels Castle in Koblenz. There really is a castle for everyone’s taste!
Castle Route itinerary
Driving Itinerary Distance Driving Time
Koln to Frankfurt 180 km 2 hours 10 minutes
Frankfurt to Mespelbrunn Castle 80 km 1 hr 2 minutes
Stuttgart 185 km 2 hours
Stuttgart to Bad Wilbad 60 km 1 hour 10 minutes
Hiedelberg 95 km 1 hour 14 minutes
Koblenz 250 km 3 hours
Castle Routes 40 km 40 minutes
Interesting facts about the Castle Route
A fun fact about Mespelbrunn Castle is that it’s actually built on water! As a result, it’s been described as one of the most stunning castles in Europe, partly because it doesn’t look like a castle at all! Instead, most say that it seems a bit like a gingerbread house with its unique color.
Another interesting Castle fact is that Burg Eltz Castle is the only one to be touched by war. The Castle’s exterior was featured in the famous 1979 movie, “The Ninth Configuration,” so if it looks familiar to all you movie buffs, perhaps that’s why!
Activities to do along the Castle Route
Outside of castle hopping, there’s plenty to explore in the medieval towns you pass by. One of our favorite activities in Stuttgart is a guided ghost tour in the old city. Several city sites are believed to be haunted, so prepare to be spooked on this exciting overnight adventure. It’s a great, fun, and interactive way to unearth the town’s unique medieval history.
Where to Stay on the Castle Route
V8 Hotel
Did you know Stuttgart is a famous car town in Germany? You won’t forget it in this unique hotel stay. Every room is like an automotive exhibition, with innovative design features and car parts as beds. It’s one of the most memorable experiences!
Der Zauberlehrling
This is the best hotel for foodies. If you want to do something cultural whilst staying overnight, then this is a great spot. The hotel has its own cooking school and a Michelin star restaurant. It’s the best spot for travelers seeking comfort with delicious gastronomy delights!
5) The Fairytale Route: from Manheim to Czech Republic
Why the Fairytale Route is Special
Stretching for 600KM, this is the Route where childhood fairytale stories come alive in Germany. The Route connects where the storytellers Brothers Grimm were born, lived, and studied.
You’ll visit Snow White’s hometown of Bad Wildungen, the house of Red Riding Hood in the forest of Alsfeld, and trace the steps of the Pied Piper in Hamelin. It’s the most iconic driving route in Germany.
Fairytale Route itinerary
Driving Itinerary Distance Driving Time
Frankfurt to Hanau 25 km 30 minutes
Hanau to Steinau 48 km 30 minutes
Steinau to Marburg 143 km 1 hour 55 minutes
Marbug to Kassel 120 km 1 hour 20 minutes
Kassel to Gottingen 125 km 2 hours 7 minutes
Hameln to Bremen 181 km 2 hours 50 minutes
Interesting facts about the Fairytale Route
The Route is actually host to over 20 castles. So if you’re looking to combine your castle sightseeing with fairy tale charm, then this is the perfect Route for you.
Activities to Do on the Fairytale Route
It’s definitely worth it during a fairytale-themed walking tour whilst you’re exploring this historic Route, especially if traveling with a family. The Route’s official website allows you to pick destinations based on your favorite folk tales. So you can discover the real story behind your favorite childhood fairytale, how fascinating!
Where to Stay on Fairytale Route
Münchhausen Palace Schwöbber
Have you ever dreamed of staying in a castle? It’s possible to have this unique experience in the fairy tale town of Hamelin. You can walk in the footsteps of times long past like a princess or baron. It’s like having your very own Castle!
6) The Romantic Rhein Route: Bingen to Koblenz
Why the Romantic Rhein Route is Special
The romantic Rhein route stretches across the UNESCO-listed beautiful Rhine River. Decorated with castles and other historic sites, it’s got some of the most phenomenal views along the river. The 65KM stretch is possible to do in either direction (we even suggest both to truly soak up all its beauty!)
You’ll pass by the Rheinfels Castle in Sankt Goar, defined by the Lorelei rocks that stand out across the river. Before passing through timber-house villages before reaching the Marksburg Castle, without a doubt the greatest standout of this journey!
You can do this trip in a day quite easily. We suggest spending the night in Koblenz to appreciate the beauty of this region.
Romantic Rhein Route itinerary
Driving Itinerary Distance Driving Time
Bingen to Kaub 20 km 47 minutes
Kab to St Goar 12 km 35 minutes
St Goar to Rhens 27 km 27 minutes
Rhens to Koblenz 15 km 15 minutes
Interesting Facts about the Romantic Rhein Route
It’s called the Romantic Rhein route due to its long history of being an area of great influence for writers, artists, and composers.
Activities to Do on the Romantic Rhein Route
We’d definitely suggest stopping by some of the scenic villages along the way. Our favorite was the scenic town of Rudesheim am Rhein. It’s famous for its picturesque half-timbered houses and being the birthplace for Riesling winemaking.
You have to take a ferry across the Rhine from Koblenz to reach Bingen am Rhein. It’s certainly an experience floating across the romantic crystal blue waters! It’s the best way to really soak up all its beauty.
Where to stay on the Romantic Rhein Route
Sander Hotel – Koblenz
The best place to stay in Koblenz is the Old Town. It’s the best spot for sightseeing, shopping and river cruises. It’s all walkable which is a nice break after the driving tours! Sander is a modern hotel with great amenities in this area.
7) Berlin and the Jewels of Eastern Brandenburg
Why this Route is Special
If you want to combine some city exploration with historic culture, then this is a great road trip adventure. Stretching 400KM you’ll start in the busy cosmopolitan city of Berlin before slowing the pace to enjoy the small eastern point of Brandenburg. Spreewald is a real fairytale forest perfect for exploring.
It can be quite a sobering trip too. Brandenburg, one of the landmarks of Berlin was the home of the Nazi-era concentration camp Sachsenhausen, just north of Berlin. It’s hard to believe such a key moment in history existed here amongst the pretty lakes and natural parks full of verdant green beauty and nature. Nonetheless, it’s a key moment in history that shouldn’t be missed.
We’d suggest spending a night or two in this part of Germany to escape the hustle and bustle you might feel from Berlin.
Route Itinerary
Driving Itinerary Distance Driving Time
Berlin to Bradenburg 85 km 1 hour 20 minutes
Berlin to Spreewald 96 km 1 hour 30 minutes
Interesting Facts about the Route
The Spreewald is a unique lace of canals and channels lined by rich verdant forests. It’s as close to natural scenery as you’ll get just outside of Berlin and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. A funny fact about The Spreewald is that it is the home of the Sorb ethnic minority. It’s also a goldmine for gherkin production. Over 40,000 tonnes are produced here every year!
Activities to Do on the Route
It’s possible to canoe or kayak down the meandering waterways of Spreewald. It’s possible to experience a moment in history here by riding down the channel on a traditional Kahn (shallow punt boat). The ferryman still wears the same traditional outfits. You feel as if you’ve stepped back in time with this moment!
Where to stay along this Route
Schloss Neuhardenberg
If you want to stay outside of Berlin for the night, this hotel exists in Schloss Park. It’s the perfect place for enjoying long evening strolls out in nature to take in picturesque surroundings. We think it’s the perfect place for escaping the city for a while.
8) Avenues Route
Why the Avenues Route is Special
This is one of the most quintessential German road trips showcasing the country’s evolution from medieval times, to the industrialization and the environmentally responsible destination it’s showcased as today.
It’s around 1060KM in length and goes along the Harz Mountains and highways of central Germany.
It’s only an hour from Berlin so it’s easy to access if you’re just arriving in the country. A looped journey, you’ll travel through the ancient states of Saxony-Anhalt before passing through stunning countryside sceneries to finish up at the cultural towns of Dresden and Leipzig.
Avenues Route Itinerary
Driving Itinerary Distance Driving Time
Dessau-Rosslau to Harz Mountains 131 km 1 hour 55 minutes
Harz Mountains to Saxony-Anhalt 105 km 1 hour 25 minutes
Quedlinburg 65 km 44 minutes
Quedlinburg to Wartburg 209 km 2 hours 34 minutes
Wartburg to Erfurt 72 km 1 hour 5 minutes
Erfurt to Dresden 200 km 2 hours 50 minutes
Dresden to Leipzig 120 km 1 hour 35 minutes
Interesting facts about the Avenues Route
You really see everything on this adventure. We’d definitely suggest stopping off at the villages of Quedlinburg and Goslar around halfway through your journey. It’s possible to take a steam train to the top of the mountain, which is full of history. It’s got one of the best panoramic views of the countryside.
Wartburg Castle is one of the most stunning we’ve seen. It’s made of over 40,000 tonnes of sandstone! It’s possible to do a guided tour here, we’d definitely recommend this as it’s so full of history.
Activities to Do along the Avenues Route
We’d definitely suggest doing a day tour in Dresden old town. The town was all but wiped off the map by Allied bombings in the Second World War. There’s so much history here and it’s incredible to learn about.
The Residenzschloss Palace in Dresden is an extraordinary example of the Renaissance era and architecture. Occupied from 1485-1918 it now acts as a home to precious gem collections including the Green Vault which is a must view as you’re exploring!
Where to stay on the Avenues Route
Hotel Schloss Eckberg
Fancy a stay inside a castle? This hotel in Dresden offers just that! It oodles in historic charm with modern amenities. It’s a little more expensive but it’s worth it for spending a night living in history.
Final thoughts about Germany Road Trips
So now you’ve seen all the wonderful road trips possible to experience in Germany, what are you waiting for? Pack for your next road trip and choose one of those routes. We’re sure that there is one here to tempt you. Happy exploring and feel free to share with us all your epic adventures!
