The Romantic Road, or Romantische Straße in German, winds through the picturesque southern region of Germany. This 285-mile (460 km) route will lead you through charming historic towns and past breathtaking landscapes in Bavaria. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming German cottages and fairytale castles, making for a truly scenic drive. There are 28 towns in total, some more popular than others but all offer something beautiful to uncover.
Whether you have 4 days or a week, there are plenty of places to discover on this route.
Explore Wurzburg

Würzburg is a charming blend of history, culture, and wine, situated on both sides of the Main River. This former royal capital and university town exudes a lively atmosphere and captivating charm. The Baroque architecture of the city is a testament to its southern German character and Franconian hospitality. St. Kilian Cathedral, the fourth-largest Romanesque church in Germany, is easily recognizable by its two grand towers that can be seen from afar. Würzburg’s famous landmarks include the Würzburg Residence with its Court Gardens (Hofgarten) and Residence Square (recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Marienberg Fortress, and the Old Main Bridge, which spans the Main River for 180 meters and features impressive statues of saints. Nestled amidst picturesque vineyards on the banks of the Main River, Würzburg’s scenic location alone is reason enough to visit this enchanting city.
Read more about the WürzburgRothenburg Ob Der Tauber

Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber is a captivating town located just a stone’s throw away from Wurzburg, making it one of the most beloved destinations on Germany’s Romantic Road. Its cobblestone streets and medieval walls, gates, and towers are steeped in history and provide a sense of stepping back in time.
The town’s half-timbered homes and unique architecture make it an exceptional stop along the Romantic Road. The best way to experience Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber is to take a leisurely stroll around the old town and immerse yourself in its charming ambiance. Don’t miss the opportunity to take in the towering sights of landmarks like Klingentor, capture a photo at the picturesque Das Plönlein (little square), and explore St. James’s Church and the Rothenburg Rathaus
Read more about the Rothenburg ob der TauberNördlingen

Nördlingen is a significant stop on the Romantic Road, along with the other two medieval walled towns, Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Dinkelsbühl. What sets Nördlingen apart is that its old town is located within a vast crater formed over 14 million years ago by a meteorite impact. This unique location adds to the town’s charm, with wall walk and the imposing Gothic structure of Saint George’s Church, boasting a 90-meter spire that you can climb up the 350 steps to enjoy a panoramic view of the town from a bird’s-eye perspective.
Read more about the NördlingenFüssen

One of the main attractions in Füssen is the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, which is located just a short distance from the town. This fairytale-like castle, built by King Ludwig II, is one of the most iconic and visited castles in Europe. Its enchanting architecture and breath-taking surroundings attract tourists from around the world. Apart from Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles, Füssen offers other notable attractions as well. The town itself has a charming old town area with colourful buildings, cobblestone streets, and quaint shops and cafes. Visitors can explore the historic Benediktinerkloster St. Mang, a former Benedictine monastery with a beautiful basilica. The High Castle (Hohes Schloss) is another prominent landmark, housing a museum showcasing the town’s history and artwork.
Read more about the Füssen