A 220-mile journey through Germany with views of picturesque historic towns and fairytale castles has been named a “must-do” road-trip for anyone seeking an unforgettable experience. The Romantic Road takes travellers from Würzburg to Füssen through southern Germany and highlights of the route include the 350-room Würzburg Residence, a Unesco World Heritage site, and the stunning walled city of Dinkelsbühl.
A five-day itinerary will allow for enough time to soak in the history and culture on offer, Harry Anapliotis, who has decades of experience in the travel and car rental sector, explained. The CEO of Rental Center Crete said of Germany’s Romantic Road: “The roads are excellently maintained and well-signposted, making it perfect for first-time European road-trippers. Summer brings festivals and outdoor dining opportunities in many towns along the way.”
One of the biggest draws of the route is Neuschwanstein – a castle set atop a rugged hill amidst a landscape of showstopping mountains. King Ludwig II spent the last 17 years of his life building the 19th-century castle – which went on to inspire Walt Disney’s Cinderella’s castle.
The Romantic Road was named by American soldiers in the occupation years after World War II – and these days it is popular with road trippers, coach tours, and cyclists. Travelers can explore the quaint towns of Lauda-Königshofen, Tauberbischofsheim and the spa resort of Bad Mergentheim, and take in the sight of the beautiful Weikersheim Palace.
Other sights include the fairy tale town of Landsberg am Lech, along the Lech river, and the Pfaffenwinkel of churches and monasteries in the Schongau and Steingaden area. Food lovers can try traditional Bavarian food along the route like sausages, sauerkraut, sauerbraten, and maultaschen.
History lovers will enjoy Hohenschwangau, a castle built on the ruins of a 12th-century fortress, or Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which has eye-catching fountains, spires, and churches.
Anapliotis said: “Road trips offer a special kind of freedom that’s hard to find elsewhere. After decades in the car rental industry, I’ve seen how a good road trip can transform a regular holiday into an unforgettable adventure. For summer journeys, aim for late May to early June or September to avoid crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather.”
He encouraged travellers to look beyond tourist hotspots for accommodations and meals, adding: “Often, the most authentic experiences are found just a few miles away at lower prices.”
