Winding through a section of Southern Germany, you’ll find the picturesque Romantic Road, or Romantische Straße, as it’s referred to in German. Spanning 285 miles (460 km), Germany’s Romantic Road will take you through historic charming towns and past some of the most scenic countryside in Bavaria.

This scenic German byway connects you to a plethora of stunning sights, from quaint German cottages to fairytale castles. Whether you are looking to spend 4 days or a week driving Germany’s Romantic Road, one thing is for sure: you won’t fall short on places to see and explore. The following itinerary guides you through a 5-day road trip filled with medieval villages, enchanting castles, and breathtaking landscapes.

Romantic Road Germany Planning Tips

Where Does Germany’s Romantic Road Start & Finish?

While this route can be tackled either North to South or South to North, the most popular approach is to start in the North. Begin your journey in the town of Wurzburg and conclude in Fussen, which is nestled next to the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s fairytale vision.

Map of Romantic Road Germany

The above map illustrates the route of Germany’s Romantic Road. You can follow the link to access the interactive map, allowing you to zoom in and out for a better understanding of the towns along the route.

Highlights of the Romantic Road in Germany

Several towns along the Romantic Road make perfect stopping points for photos or meals, while others may require one to two days for exploration. Below are the highlights and most popular stops:

• Wurzburg
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber
• Nordlingen
• Dinkelsbühl
• Augsburg
• Wieskirche
• Neuschwanstein Castle (outside of Fussen)

There are 28 towns in total along the Romantic Road, each offering unique beauty and charm waiting to be discovered.

Getting To Germany’s Romantic Road

The Romantic Road Germany begins in Wurzburg and ends in Fussen.

To arrive at the start of the Romantic Road in Germany, head towards Wurzburg. Our road trip commenced by flying into Frankfurt International Airport (FRA), which is just over an hour from Wurzburg.

You can rent a car in Frankfurt to start your journey along Germany’s celebrated Romantic Road. After several days of scenic driving and exploration, you’ll reach the end of the Romantic Road in Fussen.

Located approximately 1.5 hours from Fussen lies the vibrant city of Munich. Should you wish to avoid backtracking to Frankfurt, Munich serves as a convenient location to conclude your trip and return your rental car.

Following your time in Fussen, allocate at least a day or two to discover Munich, the capital of Bavaria, before flying to your next European destination. While you can find an entire guide for things to do in Munich, Germany, make sure not to miss:

• Visiting Marienplatz to experience the famous Glockenspiel
• Exploring the expansive and beautiful English Garden (Englischer Garten)
• Enjoying the Bavarian atmosphere at Hofbraeuhaus tavern
• Checking out the many beer gardens and museums.
• See our complete guide here

Best Time to Visit & Drive Germany’s Romantic Road?

While June – September is regarded as the prime time to visit Bavaria, these months also coax a surge of tourist traffic. If you plan on visiting during summer, booking accommodations ahead is advisable.

Conversely, late spring and early autumn are excellent shoulder seasons for travel when tourist numbers are lower and prices tend to be more manageable. Consider a detour to explore nearby Garmisch Partenkirchen, Germany.

How Long Does It Take to Drive the Romantic Road?

Determining the duration to drive the Romantic Road relies on your personal preferences. It is recommended to allocate a minimum of 4 days for driving and sightseeing along this captivating route. Four days will afford you ample time to capture the highlights; however, if you can extend your stay by an extra day or two, flexibility to explore additional towns and attractions will enrich your experience.

If you have less than four days to spare, focusing on Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Neuschwanstein Castle (just outside Fussen) is essential.

Germany’s Romantic Road Itinerary

Most travelers can only commit a few days to driving the Romantic Road. A span of four to five days is, in our view, the ideal timeframe to explore the main attractions if you wish to cover the complete length. During this period, you’ll be able to see, experience, and do a lot!

Day 1 – Explore Wurzburg

Upon arrival at the Frankfurt airport, secure your rental car and make your way to Wurzburg. Nestled along the banks of the Main River, Wurzburg is characterized by its hilly terrain and is known for both its architecture and status as one of Germany’s leading wine-producing regions—making it the perfect starting point for your Romantic Road journey.

In Wurzburg, you can easily explore its city center, showcasing baroque and rococo architecture, plus a stroll across Alte Mainbrücke, the pedestrian bridge offering picturesque views of Marienberg Fortress and the surrounding area. In warmer months, locals gather on the bridge for social events, sharing drinks, music, and laughter.

Where to Stay in Wurzburg

• Best Western Premier Hotel Rebstock – A highly rated four-star hotel featuring access to a spa, award-winning dining, complimentary WiFi, and a prime location near Sankt Kilian Cathedral.
• Dorint Hotel – Situated between the cathedral and Wurzburg Residenz, this hotel offers a spa, steam bath, swimming pool, restaurant, and free WiFi.

An additional highlight in Wurzburg is the Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After an enjoyable day of exploration and sampling local wines, you will surely be ready for rest as you anticipate the subsequent stop.

TIP: Your GPS may suggest the quickest route to the next city; however, it may not align with the actual Romantic Road. For an authentic experience, consult the map to ensure you navigate through the towns that define the Romantic Road, rather than opting for highways.

Day 2 – Walk the Walled Town of Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber

Located less than two hours from Wurzburg, Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber is a medieval walled town featuring charming cobblestone streets—making it one of the most popular and picturesque stops along the Romantic Road.

A walk through Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber feels like a journey back in time, thanks to the intriguing medieval architecture and half-timbered homes within the sturdy walls, gates, and towers of the old town. Here, you can meander and absorb the town’s splendid sights, like the towering Klingentor, or capture a photo at Das Plönlein (little square), plus visit St. James Church.

Optional Stop at Nördlingen

Optional Stops: On your way to Augsburg, consider stopping for lunch in Nördlingen or Dinkelsbühl if time permits. Both towns are celebrated for their historical significance, notable walls, and striking medieval architecture.

Day 3 – Meander the Streets of Augsburg

Continuing your journey south for about 2 hours and 15 minutes, you will arrive in Augsburg. One of Germany’s oldest cities, Augsburg dates back to 15 BC and exudes a glamorous air unlike others along the Romantic Road. You’ll notice traces of its rich banking and mercantile history in its beautiful fountains, buildings, and churches.

While in Augsburg, indulge in a visit to Augsburg Cathedral and St. Ulrich’s, climb the 253 steps of the Perlachturm for panoramic city views, and stroll Maximilian Street (Maximilianstrasse) to admire the remarkable architecture.

Day 4 – Visit Landsberg am Lech and Wieskirche

After your exploration of Augsburg, it’s time to head towards Fussen, your final location along Germany’s Romantic Road, situated roughly 1.5 hours south. On the way, you will have a couple of intriguing stops, starting with Landsberg am Lech and then Wieskirche.

Landsberg am Lech, perched on the river Lech, features vibrant rows of colorful buildings, offering a peaceful environment for leisurely walks and relaxing in quaint cafes over coffee and cake.

Following your time in Landsberg, continue south to the scenic Bavarian countryside, arriving at the stunning Wieskirche about 40 minutes later. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Wieskirche is adorned in elaborate rococo style, showcasing remarkable church sculptures, stunning ceiling paintings, and intricate gold detailing.

After spending an hour or two appreciating the exquisite details of Wieskirche, you will have a short 30-minute drive to reach your final destination, Fussen.

NOTE: If time is limited to four days, consider skipping either of these stops to maintain your schedule.

Day 5 – Explore the Castles of Fussen

Ready for your final day on Germany’s Romantic Road? The highlight of Fussen lies just outside the town at Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration for Walt Disney’s iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Neuschwanstein and the neighboring Hohenschwangau Castle are often regarded as the main attractions not just of the Romantic Road, but of all Germany. Located atop a hill that provides sweeping views of the valley below, visiting these castles is a must-do for your itinerary.

Built in 1837, Hohenschwangau Castle, alongside Neuschwanstein, completed in 1869, both offer guided tours and vantage points that showcase breathtaking views of the castles and the stunning Bavarian landscape. Plan your day to include tours of both castles and take leisurely walks around the town of Fussen, surrounded by the mesmerizing Alps.

Where to Stay near the castles

The ideal place to base yourself while exploring the castles is in Hohenschwangau. A variety of hotels and dining options are available. Suggested hotels include:

• Luxury: Villa Ludwig Suite Hotel – A highly rated Bavarian boutique hotel situated directly below Neuschwanstein Castle, featuring a Finnish spa, free WiFi, and breakfast included. Some suites even boast castle views.
• Budget: Schlossrestaurant Neuschwanstein – An affordable hotel in a prime location offering complimentary parking, breakfast included, and free WiFi.

What To Do After Driving Germany’s Romantic Road?

After a whirlwind four to five days on Germany’s Romantic Road, you have several excellent options to explore next. You are positioned in one of the most beautiful regions of Germany, practically bordering Austria.

• Munich: Situated less than two hours from Fussen, Munich offers the chance to spend several days exploring the vibrant city. Moreover, if you need to fly out of Germany, Munich is the closest international airport to Fussen.
• Zugspitze: Just under an hour from Fussen, you can visit Germany’s tallest mountain, Zugspitze. A scenic cable car ride to the summit provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps.
• Austria’s Tyrol Region: Discover the picturesque towns, lakes, and landscapes that make up Tyrol, Austria’s southernmost state. Places such as Innsbruck, Kirchbichl, and Kufstein are located just a few hours from Fussen.
• The Italian Dolomites: If you have extra days and wish to deepen your European adventure, consider a drive of about five hours from Fussen to the stunning Dolomite mountains in Italy.

How To Travel Germany’s Romantic Road

• Driving: The most effective way to experience Germany’s Romantic Road is by car, which allows maximum flexibility for exploring at your pace. Check car rental prices from Frankfurt here.
• Bus: Buses are an alternative mode of transport. Deutsche Touring’s Romantic Road Coach provides limited service to selected towns along the route.
• Train: Although traveling the Romantic Road by train is feasible, it can be complicated due to inconsistent connections. Some towns on the Romantic Road have train stations, while others do not.
• Cycling: Cycling is an invigorating option for those looking for an active way to explore. Numerous bike paths along the Romantic Road enhance your journey.

Once you dive into the cities and towns along the Romantic Road, you’ll find that you won’t need your vehicle. Your two feet will be the most efficient way to explore these charming locales. If renting a vehicle, ensure your accommodation offers parking or recommendations for where to leave your car while exploring.

Congratulations on completing your journey along Germany’s Romantic Road!

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These are the must-visit stops along Germany’s Romantic Road. Have you ventured to Bavaria? Share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below.