Exploring Germany by car allows you to see the main tourism destinations, discover hidden gems and enjoy breathtaking views.
If you are visiting Germany from overseas the most popular way to get around is by renting a car which can be done in-advance or on arrival at airports and transport hubs.
If you are looking for a European road trip adventure you could also take your own transport, book a tour or you can also buy a car at a car auction Germany online.
Now its time to start planning your itinerary. These are some of the best road trips in Germany that offer unique experiences and memorable adventures.
1. Romantic Road
The Romantic Road is one of the most popular road trips in Germany. It stretches from Würzburg to Füssen and is known for its picturesque villages, medieval towns, and fairy-tale castles.
Highlights of the Romantic Road
• Würzburg: Start your journey in Würzburg, known for its stunning Baroque architecture and the UNESCO-listed Würzburg Residence.
•Rothenburg ob der Tauber: This well-preserved medieval town offers cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the famous Plönlein corner.
•Neuschwanstein Castle: End your trip at the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, a fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Würzburg - Würzburg Residence, Marienberg Fortress
Day 2: Rothenburg ob der Tauber - Plönlein, Medieval Crime Museum
Day 3: Dinkelsbühl - St. George's Minster, Historical Old Town
Day 4: Augsburg - Fuggerei, Augsburg Cathedral
Day 5: Füssen - Neuschwanstein Castle, Hohenschwangau Castle
2. Black Forest High Road
The Black Forest High Road, or Schwarzwaldhochstraße, is a scenic route that runs through the Black Forest region. This road trip offers stunning views of dense forests, charming villages, and tranquil lakes.
Highlights of the Black Forest High Road
• Baden-Baden: Known for its thermal baths and elegant spa resorts, Baden-Baden is a great starting point for this road trip.
• Mummelsee: This glacial lake is surrounded by legends and offers beautiful hiking trails.
• Triberg: Home to Germany's highest waterfalls and famous cuckoo clocks.
Suggested Itinerary
3. German Alpine Road
The German Alpine Road, or Deutsche Alpenstraße, runs from Lindau on Lake Constance to Schönau on Lake Königssee. This route offers stunning mountain views, charming villages, and beautiful lakes.
Highlights of the German Alpine Road
• Lindau: Start your journey in the picturesque town of Lindau, located on an island in Lake Constance.
• Garmisch-Partenkirchen: Known for its ski resorts and the stunning Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak.
• Lake Königssee: End your trip at this crystal-clear lake, surrounded by majestic mountains.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Lindau - Lindau Lighthouse, Lake Constance
Day 2: Füssen - Neuschwanstein Castle, Hohenschwangau Castle
Day 3: Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Zugspitze, Partnach Gorge
Day 4: Berchtesgaden - Eagle's Nest, Berchtesgaden National Park
Day 5: Schönau am Königssee - Lake Königssee, St. Bartholomew's Church
4. The Castle Road
The Castle Road, or Burgenstraße, stretches from Mannheim to Prague, passing through numerous castles and palaces.
This road trip is perfect for history enthusiasts and those who love medieval architecture.
Highlights of the Castle Road
• Heidelberg: Home to the famous Heidelberg Castle and the oldest university in Germany.
• Nuremberg: Known for its impressive medieval fortifications and the Nuremberg Castle.
• Prague: The route ends in the stunning city of Prague, known for its historic Old Town and Prague Castle.
Suggested Itinerary
1: Mannheim - Mannheim Palace
2: Heidelberg - Heidelberg Castle, Old Bridge
3: Rothenburg - Rothenburg Town Walls, Plönlein
4: Nuremberg - Nuremberg Castle, Old Town
5: Prague - Prague Castle, Charles Bridge
5. The Fairy Tale Road
The Fairy Tale Road, or Deutsche Märchenstraße, follows the footsteps of the Brothers Grimm.
This route runs from Hanau to Bremen and passes through towns and landscapes that inspired many of their famous fairy tales.
Highlights of the Fairy Tale Road
• Hanau: The birthplace of the Brothers Grimm and the starting point of the Fairy Tale Road.
• Kassel: Home to the Brothers Grimm Museum and the stunning Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe.
• Bremen: End your journey in Bremen, home to the famous Bremen Town Musicians statue.
Suggested Itinerary
Plan the Perfect Road Trip in Germany
Germany offers a variety of road trips that cater to different interests, whether you're drawn to fairy-tale landscapes, medieval castles, or stunning mountain views.
Each route provides a unique glimpse into the country's rich history and natural beauty. So pack your bags, hit the road, and explore the best of Germany. If you are keen to extend your trip view our tips for driving in Europe.
