Travel the incomparable Bavarian Romantic Road

Castles and cobblestone streets: Germany’s Romantic Road to see and experience

Your next vacation destination is in southern Germany? This splendid Bavarian region hides one of Europe’s most spectacular historic routes along 350 km: the Romantic Road.

Dotted with charming towns with cobblestone streets, medieval cathedrals, and some of the world’s most magnificent castles, Germany’s Romantic Road leisurely follows an old Roman route, perfect for taking your time. If you rent a car in Munich, here’s a list of cities along this iconic route that deserve your attention.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Crowned with turrets in a grand alpine setting, this majestic castle seems straight out of a fairy tale. In fact, it inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and served as a filming location for classics such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and The Great Escape.

This massive castle is the first stop on the Romantic Road. Built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the late 19th century as his personal retreat, it has been open to the public since the 1890s, except during World War II when the Nazis stored looted artworks here. The mountain road leading to the castle is enchanting. Don’t miss the imposing throne room and the richly decorated royal apartments.

Distance from Munich: Neuschwanstein Castle is a two-hour drive from Munich, near the Austrian border, but the 128 km trip is well worth it.

Wies Church

This UNESCO World Heritage cultural site is one of the most beloved stops on the Romantic Road. Nestled in the small village of Wies, this rococo-style church with its sophisticated decoration was built in an oval shape by the Zimmerman brothers, famous architects and artists of the region, in the 1740s.

After parking in the peaceful village, step inside the building and let your gaze wander over the fabulous vault frescoes and white stucco decorations. The highlight is the statue of the Flagellated Savior, created before the church’s construction.

Distance from Neuschwanstein: Only a 30-minute drive (about 25 km) separates these two exceptional sites.

Augsburg

Augsburg is the largest city on the Romantic Road. While less picturesque than other stops, its heritage is well worth a few hours. Once a major Roman trade route, the city is one of Germany’s oldest metropolises.

Stop for lunch at one of the delightful restaurants near the Rathaus (city hall) or shop in Innenstadt. You can admire the baroque Schaezlerpalais, take in views of the city from the 10th-century Perlach Tower, or wander through Fuggerei, the world’s oldest – and likely most charming – social housing complex still in use.

Distance from Wies: The drive between Wies and Augsburg is 88 km, about 75 minutes by car.

Nördlingen

Step back in time in this magnificent fortified medieval town in Bavaria, famous for being the best-preserved in the country. About an hour north of Augsburg, Nördlingen is at the midpoint of the Romantic Road.

Park in one of the city’s free parking areas behind the walls, then stroll through Nördlingen’s cobblestone streets to the large gothic church at the heart of the town. Nearby is Marktplatz, an architectural gem with beautiful homes from different eras. The city once hosted a major medieval market. Weather permitting, walk the town walls for views of Nördlingen and the Franconian countryside.

Distance from Augsburg: You’ll need to cover about 75 km to reach Nördlingen from Augsburg, about a one-hour drive.

Dinkelsbühl

The next stop on our Romantic Road is another charming fortified medieval town. Like Nördlingen, Dinkelsbühl is filled with half-timbered houses from centuries past, all painted in a unified color palette – a requirement from the town’s residents.

The glorious cathedral, Dinkelsbühl’s most prestigious attraction, sits in the town center. But it’s easy to get lost for an hour or two in the lovely surrounding streets. For fresh air and greenery, head to the walls, lined on one side, for a walk or bike ride on the 3 km path.

Distance from Nördlingen: The trip between Nördlingen and Dinkelsbühl is 30 km, just a 30-minute drive.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

If you’ve already traveled the Romantic Road, you know Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of its most popular attractions. This fortified medieval town has served as the backdrop for dozens of famous films over the years. Its beautiful avenues and well-preserved buildings also make it a favorite destination for history-loving travelers in Bavaria.

You’ll find several parking areas outside Rothenburg’s walls to leave your rental car. Enter through one of the city’s gates and get ready to discover the medieval city hall, the colorful houses of Marktplatz, the landscaped castle gardens, and the Plönlein house – a charmingly crooked building said to have inspired Walt Disney for Pinocchio’s village. Are you a fan of Christmas? Don’t miss the picturesque Christmas Museum on Herrngasse.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber also hosts many festivals throughout the year, including the Rothenburg Wine Festival. Check the festival calendar when planning your Romantic Road getaway.

Distance from Dinkelsbühl: It takes only 35 minutes to cover the 50 km separating Rothenburg ob der Tauber from Dinkelsbühl.

Würzburg

The final destination of our Romantic Road journey, Würzburg will not disappoint. An artistic and architectural epicenter, its residence is the jewel of the city. This gigantic baroque palace dates from the 18th century, and its 360 rooms feature the world’s largest fresco, along with a zigzagging imperial staircase. Würzburg also offers other treasures, such as crossing the old medieval main bridge or visiting the impressive cathedral.

If some members of your group are tempted by a wine tasting, you’re in the right place since the city lies in the heart of Franconian wine country. You’ll find many wine bars near the city center, some located in typical wine cellars.

Distance from Rothenburg: The last stretch of the Romantic Road spans 65 km and will take about 45 minutes by car.

If exploring other German routes excites you, head to Frankfurt – just 80 minutes from Würzburg – to discover its incredible museums, or to Berlin for a stroll through the city’s magnificent botanical gardens.