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The ultimate Germany road trip planner
Ever dreamt of cruising along roads framed by fairytale castles, pausing in quaint medieval towns, or admiring the majesty of the mighty Alps? Germany has it all – dramatic landscapes, cutting-edge cities, a rich tapestry of history, and roads that make driving an absolute joy.
From Berlin’s lively cultural hotspots to the stark beauty of the northern coast, and from storybook river valleys to the rugged southern mountains, this underrated gem is perfect for unforgettable adventures on four wheels – and we know because we lived in Germany for 5 years and have explored every corner of this fascinating country.
Whether you yearn for enchanting castles, picturesque vineyards, medieval charm, or simply an off-the-beaten-track escape, our guide to the best German road trips will help you plan the ultimate getaway. Buckle up – this is one journey that promises to surprise you at every turn.
Germany Road Trip Map
Getting to Germany
Whether you’re taking a German road trip in a car, motorcycle, campervan, or motorhome, self-driving is absolutely the best way to explore Germany – that’s why there are over 150 themed driving routes in this suprisingly underrated country!
Stopping whenever you want, trying new activities, visiting places you see along the route, and having the freedom to change plans at the last minute is priceless.
Driving to Germany from the UK and the rest of Europe is straightforward thanks to it’s central location on the continent. Once there, you’ll find an excellent network of autobahns to deliver you right where you want to start your road trip.
Fly into the well-located international airports of Frankfurt, Munich, and Hamburg, ideal starting points for your German road trip. We recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.
Are you planning to rent a car in Germany? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a roadtrip in Germany.
For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Germany. We recommend Motorhome Republic, an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.
Use the Park4Night app to find campsites and places to stay along the route, and park for the night on a mountain pass, flower filled meadow of with a glorious view of the sea.
The Mosel Valley
Koblenz – Cochem – Beilstein – Zell am Mosel – Traben-Trarbach – Bernkastel-Kues – Trier
A beautiful river snaking through it, soaring medieval castles dotted across it, and almost vertical vineyards nestled on its hills. It’s the picturesque Mosel (or Moselle) Valley, and this is one of the best roads in Germany for wine lovers!
Punctuated by the small but beautiful Mosel River, the valley essentially stretches from the small city of Koblenz, a fairy-tale German town, to Trier along the water’s edge.
This breathtaking valley is best explored by taking a least a week, the pinnacle of slow travel as you hop from one riverside town to the next.
Kick off your Mosel road trip itinerary in Koblenz, where the mouth of the Mosel meets the Rhine, to walk along the ancient Roman walls or just amble through the Altstadt (old town), before heading to visit the first traditional town of Cochem.
On the way there, avid Instagrammers and history buffs should definitely make a turn at Burg Eltz, one of the most spectacular castles and hidden gems in Germany, to take the requisite snap. Once in Cochem, you’ll slow the pace.
You can marvel at the unique vineyards (a signature of the entire Mosel road trip), where the vines crawl up the hillside at 90-degree angles. If you go in harvest time (September and October) you’ll see the workers strapped into harnesses with spiked boots just to be able to pick the ripe grapes.
Cochem also boasts one of Germany’s legendary castles looming above it, plus it’s the best place to just take a walk along the promenade, stopping in at one of the riverfront cafes for a plate of zwiebelkuchen (onion cake) and a sparkling glass of federweisser, a traditional fizzy grape drink.
Your next few nights should definitely see you stay over in one of the many lovely towns sprinkled along the river: Beilstein for the Burg Metternich castle, a climb up the hill (and more traditional German food) in Zell am Mosel and our favourite stop on the entire itinerary, Traben-Trarbach.
This gorgeous little town used to be two villages, Traben and Trarbach, on opposite sides of the river, which were eventually united with the construction of a short bridge.
Before you hit your final destination of Trier, stay overnight in Bernkastel-Kues, a spa town peppered with wood-timbered houses, many a hot spring, and the ruins of the Landshut Castle.
Before you know it, your German road trip is at an end, as it culminates in the beguiling town of Trier. An old Roman city with landmarks like the Porta Nigra black gate, an old-school amphitheatre, the Roman baths, and a towering cathedral, just to name a few.
It’s here that we raised a(nother) glass of perfectly poured Riesling in celebration of the Mosel Valley, one of the best road trips in Germany.
Where to Stay
In Cochem stay at Hotel Villa Vinum for its highly rated service, perfect riverside location, and quirky decor.
In Traben-Trarbach stay at The Goldene Traube for its traditional exterior and modern interior, rooftop terrace, and fabulous breakfast buffet!
In Trier stay at Vienna House Easy for its excellent location close to the old town, modern and funky style, and private parking garage.
Is this your first time visiting Germany? Get all the information you need in our Germany Travel Guide, including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!
German Fairy Tale Road
Frankfurt – Steinau – Alsfeld – Marburg – Kassel – Gottingen – Hamelin – Bremen
This central to north Germany road trip from Frankfurt does not technically start in the city, but Frankfurt is the perfect place to fly into and pick up a rental car. If you’re spending the night, make sure you visit the South Bank, where you’ll find an eclectic selection of restaurants, bars, and clubs.
The Fairy Tale route known as Deutsche Märchenstraße officially starts in the pretty town of Steinau an der Strasse, where the Brothers Grimm lived until they were twelve.
The setting is straight out of their own fairy tales, complete with typical half-timbered houses, twisting cobbled alleys, and the turreted fairy tale castle of Schloss Steinau, which overlooks the whole town. Visit the BrĂĽder Grimm Haus and Museum Steinau, both of which showcase the works of the brothers.
Take the back roads to Marburg, stopping at Alsfeld for Little Red Riding Hood inspiration as you enjoy the gorgeous landscapes and slower pace for a few hours. Marburg’s altstadt is full of medieval houses and the hilltop Landgrafenschloss, a dramatic castle holding exhibits on sacred art and local history.
Lively bars and restaurants line the Marktplatz and the narrow streets surrounding it, making this a great location for an overnight stop.
From Marburg, head to Bad Wildungen, home to the distinctive Friedrichstein Palace, which initially served as a castle and is now a museum. This palace inspired the Brothers Grimm story of Snow White.
Kassel is where the Brothers Grimm spent their teenage years whilst working as librarians for the King of Westphalia, Jerome Bonaparte, the younger brother of the infamous Napoléon.
There is very little left of historic Kassel, but there are two worthwhile attractions to visit: the Brüder Grimm Museum and the Schloss und Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, a tranquil green space and the largest hill park in all of Europe.
En route to Gottingen is Hofgeismar, known for Sababurg Dörnröschenschloss or Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, set in the Reinhardswald Nature Park. The tale of Sleeping Beauty is about a princess cursed by an evil fairy who put her to sleep for 100 years only to be awakened by her Prince Charming.
Gottingen is home to the University of Gottingen, where the Grimm Brothers once served as professors. Make for the traditional and atmospheric central market square, where the statue of Ganseliesel, the Little Goose Girl of German lore, is one of the most kissed statues anywhere in the world – it is said that the kisser is rewarded with good luck!
Hameln (or Hamelin) is next up and one of the most famous fairy tale destinations in Europe. Hameln is the home of the Pied Piper, or Rattenfänger, who rid the town of rats in 1284, only to be cheated out of his payment.
The Pied Piper returned to Hameln a year later and lured away all the children. The story is re-enacted in the town centre every Sunday between May and October and is a fantastic spectacle.
The Weser Renaissance architecture of the Rattenfängerhaus and the Hochzeitshaus makes a fitting historic backdrop for the streets which are thronged with locals dressed the part, stalls selling food, and live music playing.
Finally, on to the Hanseatic city of Bremen, your final stop. Good places to visit in Bremen include the traditional Marktplatz, which is located in the city’s charming Altstadt, the 600-year-old Rathaus or town hall, the Roselius-Haus Museum, and the stunning St. Petri Dom, the 11th-century gothic cathedral.
Another landmark can be found in the city’s central town square – a statue of the Bremen musicians and heroes of the Brothers Grimm story, The Town Musicians of Bremen.
If you have time, extend your trip and head to the modern and progressive port city of Hamburg. Explore the historic districts, edgy culture, and extraordinary commercial past with our one day Hamburg itinerary.
Where To Stay
In Frankfurt stay at the Kempinski Hotel Frankfurt Gravenbruch for its proximity to the airport and city centre, fantastic spa, and beautiful surroundings.
In Marburg stay at The Vila Vita Rosenpark for its central location, excellent regional restaurant, and stylish bedrooms.
In Bremen stay at Atlantic Grand Hotel for its perfect riverside location, bike rental from reception, and ultra-stylish bathrooms.
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Baltic Coastal Route
LĂĽbeck – Wismar – Rostock – Stralsund – RĂĽgen
A road trip along Germany’s Baltic coast promises pristine white-sand beaches, charming Hanseatic towns, and stunning nature reserves, all rolled into one enchanting journey. This lesser-explored region is full of cute fishing villages, historic UNESCO sites, and chic seaside resorts.
Whether you’re a history buff eager to delve into coastal history or simply love kicking back on the beach with fresh seafood, the Baltic coast of Germany makes for an unforgettable adventure.
Start your trip in Lübeck, a medieval Hanseatic city famous for its UNESCO-listed Altstadt and Gothic brick architecture. Wander the winding lanes around the Holstentor, sample the city’s legendary marzipan at Café Niederegger, and soak up Lübeck’s café culture.
If you enjoy a dose of seaside charm, make time for neighbouring TravemĂĽnde – its sandy shoreline and resort vibe are perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
Next, head east towards Wismar, another Hanseatic treasure. Centuries-old gabled houses ring its striking Marktplatz, and the Nikolaikirche showcases remarkable brickwork that testifies to the city’s maritime past. Here, you can spend a day exploring the bustling harbour or hopping on a boat tour around Wismar Bay.
Following the coastline, you’ll reach Rostock. Pause in Warnemünde, its coastal district, where a towering lighthouse overlooks a wide sandy beach that’s beloved by surfers and sunbathers alike. Spend your time meandering through the old fisherman’s quarter of Warnemünde, sampling fresh fish from local stands, or immersing yourself in Rostock’s lively student scene.
Further north, Stralsund dazzles with its panoramic view of the RĂĽgen Bridge and colourful gabled houses. This UNESCO-listed city is brimming with culture. Visit the Ozeaneum for an immersive exploration of Baltic marine life, then stroll the medieval streets at sunset for picture-perfect snaps.
No Baltic road trip would be complete without crossing to Rügen, Germany’s largest island. Known for its rugged chalk cliffs and golden beaches, Rügen captivated us with its natural splendour. We spent a few days exploring Jasmund National Park and marvelling at the famous Königsstuhl rock formation, and cycling through the island’s beech forests.
If you have a few extra days visit the fascinating Hanseatic city of Hamburg, full of maritime history alongside some of Germany’s most iconic modern architecture.
Where to Stay
In LĂĽbeck stay at Fisher’s Loft Hotel for its modern loft-inspired design, creative vibe, and central location in the heart of the UNESCO-listed old town.
In Rostock stay at Radisson Blu Hotel Rostock for its sleek modern design, stunning Baltic waterfront views, and prime central location that puts the city’s historic charm and vibrant culture right at your doorstep.
In Stralsund stay at Hotel Alter Hafenspeicher for its historic warehouse charm, artfully updated interiors, and prime location in a dynamic maritime district.
More German Travel Ideas
The Romantic Road
Wurzburg – Weikersheim – Rothenberg – DinkelsbĂĽhl – Augsburg – Fussen
One of the best southern Germany road trips is along the scenic route known as the Romantic Road or Romantische Strasse. This Bavaria road trip stretches for 340km from Wurzburg to Fussen, passing through some of Germany’s prettiest landscapes, fairy tale towns and villages.
The official Romantic Road route has 29 stops, but doing all of them is intense, and after a while, the highlights all blend together into one! To cover the route in full, we took a week, but you could easily spend longer! This gave us enough time to pop into most of the official stops and spend a bit longer at the most interesting places, which we have covered here.
The first stop on Germany’s Romantic Road is Wurzburg, an attractive city that was almost totally destroyed in World War Two. Highlights include the Marienberg Fortress, Wurzburg Cathedral, the Old Main Bridge (which crosses the River Main), and the stunning UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wurzburg Residence.
Wurzburg and the Franconia region are also well-known for their wines, and you’ll see vines planted in front of the Marienberg Fortress and in the surrounding countryside, so be sure to stop for a wine tasting and sample a local drop.
After exploring Wurzburg, head south to the fairytale town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, one of the most beautiful places in Germany that visitors flock to worldwide.
We recommend stopping in the charming town of Weikersheim en route. There’s a beautiful palace to visit and a small but very picturesque Altstadt.
In Rothenburg, brightly painted half-timbered houses line the Insta-worthy cobbled streets, and the medieval city walls with their watchtowers ooze romanticism.
Other highlights include St. Jacob’s Cathedral, the castle gardens, the views from the tower of City Hall, the open-all-year Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas store and the German Christmas Museum.
Along the way to the next stop of Augsburg you will pass the popular medieval town of DinkelsbĂĽhl, known for its beautiful architecture and the sweet treat schneeball or snowball, a delicious deep-fried short-crust pastry you must try!
Augsburg, which was a free imperial city from 1276 to 1803, is one of the oldest cities in Germany. The beautiful Gothic Augsburg Cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is one of the most important religious buildings in the region.
Augsburg’s town hall, known as the Rathaus, is another highlight due to its beautiful 16th-century Renaissance architecture. The highlight of the interior is the Golden Hall, a ceremonial hall that features six portals, wall frescos, and splendid coffered ceilings, all of which are literally covered in gold.
One of Augsburg’s most famous landmarks is the Fuggerei, the world’s oldest social housing project, founded in 1516. The project consists of a small town within Augsburg with narrow streets, small houses, and gardens. It is a unique look into the history of housing and gives visitors a glimpse into how the lower class used to live in Germany.
In Fussen, explore the old town and head to Schwangau to visit Germany’s most famous schloss, Neuschwanstein Castle, built by mad King Ludwig. If you have a few extra days, enjoy some city life by heading to Munich, where you’ll find fantastic Bavarian culture and a lively social scene.
Where to Stay
In Wurzburg stay at Hotel GrĂĽner Baum for its great location, traditional Franconian decor, and outstanding breakfast.
In Rothenburg stay at Hotel Herrnschloesschen for its gorgeous and unique decor, fantastic restaurant, and beautiful garden.
In Fussen stay at Hotel Das RĂĽbezahl for a real treat. This luxury hotel has amazing views across the Alps and both Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles. There is also a fantastic spa and restaurant, making this the perfect hotel to end your German road trip.
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The Black Forest
Baden-Baden – Mummelsee – Triberg – Titisee-Neustadt – Freiburg im Breisgau
A road trip through the Black Forest is like stepping into a living fairytale, where ancient woodlands, charming villages, and breathtaking vistas make for an incredible journey. At the heart of this experience lies the legendary Black Forest High Road (Schwarzwaldhochstraße), one of Germany’s most celebrated scenic routes.
Your adventure begins in Baden Baden, a sophisticated spa town known for its thermal baths and elegant streets. After savouring a leisurely breakfast at a local café and perhaps indulging in a restorative spa treatment, you’re ready to hit the road.
As you embark on the Black Forest High Road, the scenery transforms dramatically – lush, dense forests give way to rolling hills and panoramic views. Once a favourite among royal travellers and early tourists, this road carries with it the echoes of history and the promise of discovery.
A must-see along the route is the enchanting Mummelsee. Nestled high within the forest, this shimmering lake is steeped in legend and mystery. Local lore speaks of forest spirits that call this serene body of water home, adding an element of magic to your visit.
Make sure to stop at one of the rodelbahns, a summer toboggan on rails that is great fun. They are often built into the sides of hills to best use your weight and kinetic energy to hurtle the toboggan along the tracks. There are brakes but it’s more fun without!
Whether you choose to take a leisurely lakeside stroll, rent a paddle boat for a closer look, or simply relax with a picnic while soaking in the views, the Mummelsee offers a peaceful interlude amid your adventure. We enjoyed the view with the local speciality of Schwarzwaelder Schinken (smoked ham) finely chopped on buttered farmhouse bread and a locally brewed Honig Bier (honey beer).
Further along, the quaint town of Triberg beckons. Famous for its majestic waterfall, the highest in Germany at 163 metres, Triberg offers both natural wonder and a taste of local craft traditions. The roaring falls provide a spectacular backdrop as you explore the town’s narrow streets lined with charming shops and workshops where master artisans create iconic cuckoo clocks.
After climbed to the top of the falls using the staircases and bridges provided and took the back route through the forest to the small Bergsee Lake. On the edge of the lake we stopped at CafĂ© BergseestĂĽble for kaffe und kuchen, a traditional German custom of coffee and cake. And of course we had homemade Black Forest cake – chocolate cake with cherry and kirsch filling and lashings of whipped cream between each layer! As you wander back to town, visit the beautiful Wallfahrtskirche Maria in der Tanne, a Baroque pilgrimage church with an ornate interior.
No Black Forest road trip would be complete without a stop at Titisee-Neustadt. This picturesque town, set beside the sparkling Titisee Lake, has a lively but relaxed vibe. There are lots of activities going on around Titisee – you can hike around the whole lake, paddle board, kayak, swim and spend a day at Badeparadies Schwarzwald, aspa and water paradise ideal for families.
Finish your road trip in the vibrant city of Freiburg, which offers a refreshing contrast with its sun-drenched streets, a blend of historical charm and innovative green living. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Freiburg Minster with its soaring spires, then wander through the cobbled alleys of the old town where bustling markets and quaint cafés invite you to pause and enjoy the moment.
In Baden-Baden stay at Hotel Der Kleine Prinz for its charming boutique atmosphere, refined decor, and prime location just steps away from the city’s renowned thermal baths and cultural attractions.
In Triberg stay at Gasthaus Staude for its authentic Black Forest hospitality, inviting rustic charm, and great famous close to the waterfalls and scenic trails.
In Freiburg stay at Boutiquehotel Oberkirch im Zentrum for its unbeatable central location, chic design and intimate boutique ambience.
Germany’s Castle Route
Köln – Frankfurt – Mespellbrunn Castle – Stuttgart – Bad Wildbad – Heidelberg – Koblenz – Eltz Castle – Rheinstein Castle – Cochem Castle – Köln
This South Germany itinerary covers a whole mix of destinations in a fabulous circuit, visiting some of Germany’s best castles on the route. Starting and finishing in the graceful city of Cologne (Köln in German), this road trip covers the southwest of the country.
It takes you south as far as Stuttgart before circling back north towards the Mosel Valley. To make the most out of this road trip, we suggest three to four days, which will give you time to enjoy the castles as well as the wine in the Rhine region – perfect for a long weekend.
This part of the country is one of the best places to visit in Germany, and you’ll get to see some of Germany’s prettiest castles, the stunning and verdant forests, the Rhine River, as well as a number of picturesque cobbled towns. Stay off the autobahns for the best driving through beautiful landscapes and scenery.
Start your castle road trip in Koln, making sure to visit the simply stunning cathedral, and head southeast towards Frankfurt. Spend some time in the Altstadt, wandering around the pretty and atmospheric streets.
From here, head towards Mespellbrunn Castle. It’s located pretty much in the middle of nowhere, however, it’s a stunning castle, which looks a lot like the Sleeping Beauty tower, located on a lake.
From Mespellbrunn Castle, keep heading southeast towards Stuttgart, a beautiful city full of green and open spaces. Be sure to spend plenty of time here exploring the town and its elegant buildings.
It’s worth stopping overnight and taking advantage of the fantastic restaurants, bars and beer gardens which line the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town.
From Stuttgart, start to head back north-west. Spend time visiting the lovely Bad Wildbad in the Black Forest and maybe indulge yourself in one of the many thermal baths there.
Head for historic Heidelberg and visit the imposing Heidelberg Castle before crossing the wide River Neckar on the famous old bridge. This is another great town for an overnight stay.
Stop by the pretty and very German town of Koblenz before heading to Burg Eltz Castle. If you’re looking for a quintessential fairytale castle, then Eltz is it! When you’re done swooning over Eltz, head to the small complex of Rheinstein Castle high on the banks of the Rhine (or Rhein in Germany) River.
Make for your last stop in Cochem on the gorgeous Moselle and the impressive Cochem Castle. Stay for the night and try some of the delicious wine produced in this region, or take a guided tour of a vineyard with a wine tasting.
This is a fully packed itinerary covering all the best bits of Germany and some truly magical castles. I’m sure you’ll agree, this makes a fantastic German road trip!
Where to Stay
In Koln stay at Hotel Lyskirchen for its ideal old town location, boutique vibe and modern rooms.
In Bad Wildbad stay at Mokni’s Palais Hotel and Spa for some of that thermal action, as well as old-fashioned elegance and service.
In Heidelberg stay at Ninetynine Hotel Heidelberg City for funky and modern design, super-comfortable beds and a lively, sociable bar.
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The German Alpine Road
Lindau – Bad Hindelang – Pfronten – FĂĽssen – Oberammergau – Garmisch-Partenkirchen – Bad Tölz – Rottach-Egern – Oberaudorf – Aschau im Chiemgau – Reit im Winkl – Berchtesgaden
Starting at Lake Constance (Bodensee) and winding its way through the diverse and spectacular Bavarian landscape to Lake Koningssee, following the Alps from west to east, the German Alpine Road, or Deutsche Alpenstrasse, is simply spectacular and has to be one of the most scenic road trips in Germany.
On this South Germany road trip, the oldest tourist route in Germany, you’ll explore picture-perfect towns, alpine lakes and meadows, historic castles, and fantastic driving roads, perfect for whatever your means of transport.
Starting in the pretty harbour town of Lindau on Lake Constance, take the twisting road of the Rohrbach ascent into the Allgäu peaks for spectacular views and the Scheidegg waterfalls in the Rohrach Gorge.
Continue through Oberstaufen, stopping for a dip in the cold and clear waters of Grosser Alpsee, to the traditional German town of Immenstadt before crossing the Oberjoch Pass. With 106 bends, this is one of the most scenic and exciting drives of the whole route – make sure you allow enough time to stop for photos!
As you continue east, you’ll step into the fairytale world of King Ludwig II on a tour of the castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau and the Museum of the Bavarian Kings. Three lakes on this part of the route – Weissensee, Hopfensee, and Forggensee – offer gorgeous scenery.
Upper Bavaria, the land of drama, adventure, and extreme sports, is next on the route. Here, you can explore the summit of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, take in Linderhof Palace, swim in the beautiful Eibsee, and discover the many intricate Baroque churches and monasteries, like the Church of Wies. Oberammergau, home of the famous ten-yearly Oberammergau Passion Play, is also in this region and well worth visiting.
The next part of the route runs through the Tölzer Land, beside Lake Walchensee, across the fabulous Kesselberg Pass, and on to Lake Kochelsee. After Benediktbeuern with its abbey, Bad Heilbrunn, Bad Tölz, and Lenggries, the route climbs to the Sylvenstein reservoir, where you’ll have fantastic views.
The next section of the route in the Tegernsee and Schliersee region sees you driving through Rottach-Egern, Tegernsee, Schliersee, and Bayrischzell, known for their restaurants and cafés that provide Bavarian hospitality and delicious local food and drink for you to sample. As you continue, the road meanders through the mountains to Chiemsee, and panoramic views are guaranteed.
The German Alpine Route saves the best for last – crossing the 868m high Schwarzbachwacht Pass into the incredible landscape of the Berchtesgaden Alps and Konigsee, widely thought to be the most stunning lake in Germany.
Where to Stay
In Fussen stay at Hotel Sonne for its wonderful old town location, local cuisine, and contemporary decor.
In Bad Tolz stay at Hotel am Wald for its wellness area, panoramic views, and cosy rooms.
In Berchtesgaden stay at Alpenhotel Fischer for its fabulous spa, out-of-town location, and family hospitality.
Want to plan your own road trip? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or check out our favorite Europe road trips for ideas and inspiration!
Iconic German Cities
Berlin – Hamburg – Hanover – Munster – Koln – Frankfurt – Munich
If you really can’t decide which road trip to take and you have a few weeks. then why not consider taking a driving tour of Germany, hopping between some of Germany’s most historic and beautiful cities, and taking in elements of all our road trips on the way?
This Germany road trip from Berlin will take you past or in close proximity to some of the most beautiful places in Germany including fairy tale castles and towns, famous landmarks, stunning rivers, and wine regions.
You’ll drive on fantastic roads and if you choose not to use the autobahns, you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace and be able to enjoy the ever-changing scenery and small historic towns of this surprisingly gorgeous country.
If you’re road-tripping Germany in winter, you’ll love the clear crips days, frosty landscapes and, of course, the traditional Christmas markets that the country is famous for. Fairy lights, gluhwein, traditional artisan gifts, and hearty, warming local food will make your winter road in Germany really memorable.
Don’t forget Germany’s recent history, either. This route will take you close to both Dachau and Bergen Belsen concentration camps, which make for harrowing visits that nevertheless should be taken, lest we forget the past, which must never be repeated.
You’ll also find the opportunity to tour the top car museums of BMW in Munich and Porche and Mercedes in Stuttgart. Why not test yourself and take a drive around the famous Nurburgring on your way past?
Where to Stay – Our Top German Hotels
These are luxurious, treat-yourself hotels known for their sumptuous decor, opulent furnishings, and outstanding service.
In Berlin stay at Hotel Zoo Berlin for its superb Ku’damm location, legendary breakfast and elegant decor.
In Koln stay at Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom for its fabulous cathedral location, love of tradition, and impeccable service.
In Frankfurt stay at Hotel Villa Kennedy for its incredibly gorgeous rooms, comprehensive spa, and superb, discreet service.
In Munich stay in Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski for its high-end location on the fashionable Maximilianstrasse, architectural grandeur, and first-class service.
Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks, podcasts and road trip songs for the journey!
Planning Your German Road Trip
German Road Trip Resources
These are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for travelling in Germany:
Best Time to Visit Germany
The German climate is fairly typical of central European weather.
The high season is considered to be between April to August, when the weather is generally warm. If you want to increase your chances of a dry holiday without rain, take a roadtrip in Germany between July and September. Temperatures during this period fluctuate between 68°F/20°C to 86°F/30°C.
The colder low season German weather starts in November and lasts until late March or early April. Snow is common across the country, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. By late March, snow turns to rain, a sure sign that spring is on the way!
That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t choose to road trip Germany in winter. As a European winter destination, Germany packs a real punch with fantastic Christmas markets, winter activities in Bavaria, and everywhere dusted in snow.
Tips for Driving in Germany
The roads in Germany are well maintained, the autobahns are toll-free and there are excellent regional and minor roads with great services for drivers, making Germany a fantastic place to road trip.
Contrary to popular belief, though, there are speed limits on the autobahn, and many sections have limits between 120km/h (75mph) and 110km/h (68mph) or lower, especially in urban areas.
Whether you’re travelling in your own vehicle or flying in and renting a car, you need to follow these rules when you drive and travel in Germany:
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