Discover the ultimate European Roadtrip
The Romantic Road
Frankfurt - Fussen
The Romantic Road
Stop 1: Frankfurt 1/13
Nowhere else in Germany is the marriage between the past and future as eye-catching as in Frankfurt. Steel and glass dazzle in the bustling business district of Mainhattan (can you see what they did there?), while the old town glitters with medieval treasures. Take in the half-timbered buildings on Römerberg, the main square that’s home to the famous Römer city hall and annual Christmas market, then stroll to nearby St Bartholomäus Cathedral, a coronation site for Holy Roman Emperors for more than 200 years.
The Romantic Road
Stop 2: Würzburg Residence 2/13
Start your journey on the Romantic Road in the stunning town of Würzburg. The magnificent Würzburg Residence palace oozes luxury, with regal interiors and immaculately manicured gardens. The city center itself is a mix of old and new, including around 70 churches – look out for the bright red spire of the Marienkapelle. Just 10 minutes’ drive across the Main river, Marienberg Fortress is a medieval landmark that was home to the local prince-bishops for nearly five centuries. Showcasing inspiring art and an array of amazing sculptures, it also offers jaw-dropping views of the town below.
The Romantic Road
Stop 3: Wertheim Castle 3/13
What it lacks in size, the compact city of Wertheim certainly makes up for in character. Park up in the center and head straight for the illustrious Wertheim Castle, either on foot or by tram. The distinctive red stone walls tower above the city, telling tales from as far back as the 12th century. Take a seat at the Castle Restaurant, enjoying German classics on the sun terrace, before heading back down into the center to browse the high street for souvenirs.
The Romantic Road
Stop 4: Castle of Bad Mergentheim 4/13
The spa town of Bad Mergentheim delivers historic architecture and modern attractions in equal measure. Explore the 12th-century castle of Bad Mergentheim to discover the story of the Teutonic Order knights. Inside you’ll find the epitome of grandeur with stone-carved spiral staircases, embellished ceilings and detailed frescos. Afterwards, head to the nearby wildlife park to see lynxes, wolves and brown bears roaming around the Bavarian hillsides. Finally, end the day with a chilled-out soak in one of the town’s famed thermal spas.
The Romantic Road
Stop 5: Rothenburg ob der Tauber 5/13
Packed full of medieval charm, the town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber serves up a taste of traditional Germany with a fairy tale twist. Go for a stroll around the surviving city walls, known as the Stadtmauer. There’s an unbroken section which stretches for a mile-and-a-half, providing a spectacular walk with views over the Tauber Valley. In the heart of the candy-colored town, explore the quirky range of attractions, from the Kriminalmuseum (Crime Museum) to the eternally-festive German Christmas Museum.
The Romantic Road
Stop 6: Feuchtwangen Marktplatz 6/13
Originally the site of a 9th-century Benedictine monastery, head straight for the Marktplatz to eat, relax and get a feel for this traditional Bavarian city. At the heart of the square is the Rӧhrenbrunnen fountain, which dates back to 1727, while Romanesque cloisters and traditional Franconian style houses border the cobbles. There are a number of museums to browse, including the Frankisches, home to an extensive collection of folk art. If you’re visiting in the summer months, head to the Kreuzgangspiele to enjoy open-air theatrical performances.
The Romantic Road
Stop 7: Dinkelsbuhl 7/13
Orange, yellow, green and pink – the streets of Dinkelsbühl sing with color. Enjoy a stroll through this whimsical city, taking snaps of idyllic scenes and exploring the cultural attractions as you go. Converted from the old town hall, the Dinkelsbühl History Museum is a fascinating stop with more than 600 exhibits showcased inside. Head to the former castle, now called House of the Teutonic Order, which is renowned for its Baroque façade and the intricate Rococo chapel within.
The Romantic Road
Stop 8: Perlach Tower 8/13
Augsburg is filled with the history and heritage you would expect of Germany’s third oldest city. The turquoise onion-dome of Perlach Tower is an iconic part of the skyline – admire the intricate architecture and then head inside. Climb the 250 or so steps and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the colorful city and the rich green countryside beyond. Back on ground level, make your way around the city’s monuments, including the medieval Augustus fountain, sculpted from bronze and marble.
The Romantic Road
Stop 9: Munich 9/13
It may not officially be part of the Romantic Road, but it’s worth a short detour to see Bavaria’s majestic capital. Famed for Oktoberfest, you’ll find more than beer and lederhosen in this heritage-laden city. Browse Kunstareal, Munich’s art quarter, enjoy the buzz of Marienplatz, the city’s main square, wander the famous English Garden and tour museums celebrating everything from Bavarian culture to BMW. An overnight stay will let you make like a local and head for a beer garden to sample the wares of its six – yes, six – world-class breweries.
The Romantic Road
Stop 10: Peiting 10/13
The last stop before you enter the foothills of the Alps, Peiting is a stunning town with a serene atmosphere. Check out Villa Rustica – a Roman countryside villa unearthed in the 1950s – and picnic in one of the city’s four nature parks, strolling along the footpaths and relaxing by the lakeside. If it’s warm, take a towel and go for a dip in the outdoor heated wave pool. Up the tempo and end your stay on a high with a sightseeing flight in a sports plane, soaring high above the Bavarian countryside.
The Romantic Road
Stop 11: Pilgrimage Church of Wies 11/13
Far from your regular church, this building’s majestic interior makes it a must-see. The UNESCO-listed Pilgrimage Church of Wies is simply stunning, offering an insight into the cultural and religious traditions of the local area. The Rococo-style design is positively regal, and is sure to take your breath away as soon as you step through the door. Surrounded by a vast alpine valley and scenic countryside, every aspect of this church is awe-inspiring.
The Romantic Road
Stop 12: Neuschwanstein Castle 12/13
Neuschwanstein Castle looks like it’s been conjured straight from the pages of a fairy tale, both inside and out. The dreamy exterior is set against the backdrop of a stunning alpine landscape, perfect for exploring before you head inside. Take a guided tour to learn more about this 19th-century creation, once home to the reclusive King Ludwig II. When he died in 1886, the doors were opened to visitors and its epic grandeur makes it one of the most popular castles in the world.
The Romantic Road
Stop 13: Füssen 13/13
The final stop on your Romantic Road adventure, Füssen offers the chance to soak up spellbinding views over Bavaria by soaring to the summit of Mount Tegelberg via cable car. When you’re done, you can explore the town’s past as a major center for violin and lute making (aided by the spruce in the nearby forests) at the Füssen Museum, then sample the local delicacies, like traditional Bavarian pretzels or Schweinshaxe – slow-roasted pig knuckle.
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