GermanyBavaria

Romantic Road

Germany's fairy-tale route

Distance

460 km (286 miles)

Duration

3-5 days recommended

Best Time

May to October (Christmas markets in December)

Route

WürzburgFüssen

About This Route

The Romantische Straße stretches 460 kilometers through Bavaria, connecting medieval walled towns, baroque churches, and fairy-tale castles. This is quintessential Germany, from the wine country of Franconia to the Alpine foothills, passing through towns that seem frozen in time with half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets.

Must-See Highlights

1

Neuschwanstein Castle

The inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle

2

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Perfectly preserved medieval walled town

3

Dinkelsbühl

Colorful half-timbered houses and town walls

4

Würzburg Residenz

UNESCO-listed baroque palace with stunning gardens

5

Wieskirche

Rococo pilgrimage church in an alpine meadow

Traveler Tips

  • 1

    Visit Christmas markets in late November-December

  • 2

    Try local Franconian wine in northern sections

  • 3

    Book Neuschwanstein tickets online in advance

  • 4

    Stay in family-run guesthouses for authentic experience

  • 5

    The Autobahn runs parallel for faster segments