A Fairy Tale Germany Road Trip – The Ultimate One Week Itinerary

It is often said that the Germans build the best cars and they certainly have some amazing roads, so what better way to see this beautiful country than an epic road trip! Below you will find the perfect one-week Germany road trip itinerary along with stunning photos from along the way.

There is a famous route through Germany called the Romantic Road, this is not a particular road but rather a tourism campaign that directs you through some of the most scenic towns in western and southern Germany. The official ‘Romantic Road’ route is signposted and can be easily followed however it is a very full itinerary and also misses some gems that we really wanted to see.

This Germany road trip is our personal take on the perfect Romantic Road itinerary, taking in what we think are the most epic castles and most picturesque towns along the way. The itinerary is planned so as not to feel rushed while still seeing as much as possible, you will have plenty of time to wander around the stunning villages and also get in some proper German bier and pretzels!

Germany Road Trip Overview

• Cologne
• Cochem – 1 night
• Burg Eltz
• Würzburg
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber – 2 nights
• Dinkelsbühl
• Hohenzollern Castle/Lichtenstein Castle – 1 night
• Hohenschwangau – 1 night
• Munich – 2 nights

Recommended stops

Day One – Depart Cologne early + drive 1.5 hrs to Cochem. Spend the day exploring the town and castle.

Night One – Spend one night in Cochem

Day Two – Wake up early and head to Burg Eltz + drive 3 hrs to Würzburg. Spend the afternoon in Würzburg followed by a 45 min drive to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Nights Two & Three – Spend two nights in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Day Three – Spend a full day exploring the highlights of Rothenburg.

Day Four – Depart Rothenburg in the morning + drive 40 min to the town of Dinkelsbühl. Spend a few hours exploring Dinkelsbühl, make sure to leave time for the 2.5 hr drive to Hohenzollern Castle and enough time to explore the castle before it shuts for the day. Option to skip this castle if you are feeling rushed.

Night Four – Spend one night in Sonnenbühl or any town near Hohenzollern/Lichtenstein Castles

Day Five – Start the day by visiting Lichtenstein Castle + drive 2.5 hrs to Hohenschwangau. Visit Hohenschwangau Castle and/or Museum of Bavarian Kings in the afternoon.

Night Five – Spend one night in Hohenschwangau

Day Six – Wake up early and head to the Neuschwanstein Castle viewpoint followed by a visit to the castle itself. Drive 1.5 hrs to Munich in the afternoon. Visit a beer hall/beer garden in Munich.

Nights Six & Seven – Spend two nights in Munich

Day Seven – Spend the morning at Munich Residenz followed by an afternoon of exploring the old city and seeing some of the famous sights, option to include a walking tour or brewery tour.

Day Eight – Head to Munich airport + fly home

Total Driving Time

13h 15min – (depending on traffic and chosen route)

We used the autobahns to save time and fit more in so the travel times are all based on this. The drives themselves are not always particularly impressive but each drive is kept short and the destinations more than make up for it.

Longest Stretch of Driving

3 hours – Burg Elz to Würzburg

Total Kilometers / Miles Covered

1030 kilometers / 640 miles

Germany Road Trip Highlights

The most incredible castles you’ll ever see, stunningly presented medieval towns, beautiful rolling vineyards producing delicious German varietals, scenic hikes through majestic mountain scenery and don’t forget the lively and welcoming traditional beer halls to rest your weary legs at the end of a long day (although you might inadvertently get weary arms from lifting steins!).

Best Photography Locations in Southern Germany

In this Germany road trip itinerary, we hold nothing back. The photo opportunities around this region of Germany are truly endless so, we’ve made sure to include the exact locations and directions on how to take the most stunning photos to remember your trip by.

How Long Will I Need?

We completed this road trip in one week (7 nights, 8 days), this is the minimum time you should allow to follow it. Keep in mind that we started in Europe, if you are flying in from some distance away you will probably need an extra night or two at the beginning to recover and be ready to drive.

There are also so many other towns and attractions to visit that you could easily take much longer if you are able. If you prefer a slower pace then you certainly won’t regret spending an extra night in the towns along the way.

Best Time of Year to Go?

We are big fans of shoulder-season travel in Europe, with less crowds, better prices and reasonable weather. In Germany this would be around May or September with an average high of around 18 and a low of 8 and no increase in rainy days, as high season is actually the rainiest time in this region. Avoid this trip in off season as many of the attractions will be closed.

Nevertheless, we actually ended up doing this trip in the middle of high season (July) as it was the only time we could fit it in. While some areas were quite busy, many tourists were on day trips from the bigger cities, meaning that you can keep your sightseeing to the morning and evening and drive during the middle of the day to avoid the crowds.

High season has temperature highs in the 20s and lows in the 10s. As mentioned, this region can be quite rainy at any time of the year but that’s one of the unknowns of travelling!

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The Ultimate Germany Road Trip Itinerary – Epic Castles, Fairy Tale Villages & Beer Halls

Cologne

This epic journey starts in the city of Cologne. We were keen to just get straight on the road and spend more time in all the beautiful small towns and villages in the countryside so didn’t actually explore Cologne. As previously mentioned, if you have had a long flight then consider spending a night in Cologne so you can wake up fresh and ready to head off the following morning.

→Click here to browse accommodation options in Cologne←

Car Rental in Cologne

Cars can be rented at both the airport and the main train station, depending on how you’ve reached Cologne, keep in mind this is a one-way trip so be sure to check the one-way fee with your chosen provider. Some providers include this in the price when you book but others keep it in the fine print and ask for it when you pick the car up, so check before you book!

Use the search box below to compare prices on car rental options for the dates that you require. We always use this search tool for car rentals because their insurance prices are the most reasonable, they have the best selection of providers and usually the best rates.

Aim to leave Cologne as early as possible so you have as much time as possible in the beautiful valleys of Rhineland.

Cochem

As you leave the motorway for the country roads leading towards your first stop in Cochem you’ll start to see your first views of the beautiful river valleys and numerous vineyards that characterise this area.

The town itself sits on the bank of the Mosel River with picturesque colourful buildings lining the riverfront and vineyards sitting in steep relief on the hillsides surrounding the town. You may not notice all this straight away however as your eyes will be drawn towards the truly impressive castle positioned high in the sky above the town.

I first saw a photo of Cochem years before I ever lived in Europe and it was always a dream to visit this place. I can tell you that the views in person are far better than any photo and the charm of the town made me wish I could stay longer.

Highlights of Cochem

Riverfront Promenade – For me the single best thing to do in Cochem is simply walking along the riverfront! Take in views of the picturesque and colourful historical buildings along the main street, maybe popping in for a glass or two of the delicious local wines. Cross the bridge to the far side of the river for best angle to admire both the town and castle, see below photo.

Mosel River Cruise– One of the most popular things to do in Cochem is to take a panoramic cruise along the beautiful Mosel River, taking in the picturesque scenery as you go. Admire the pretty timbered houses of Cochem, the rolling vineyards and of course the dominating castle as you enjoy a 1 hr cruise.

Tickets include an audio guide in English and German, which will explain the history behind the sites and landmarks. Check prices and availability here.

Cochem Castle (Reichsburg Cochem) – This stunning castle has been traced back to 1130 however it was reconstructed in the current style around 1868. Make your way up on foot to enjoy a (rather steep) walk through the vineyards and sweeping views back over the valley.

Castle Tickets: €7/adults, €3.50/children

Opening Hours: 11am-3pm/winter months, 9am-5pm/summer months

Click here to view more information about the castle’s opening hours.

Market Square – Head one street in from the riverfront and you will find the beautiful old market square. Enjoy a coffee in one of the cafes as you take in the well preserved half-timbered buildings and the tall domed tower of St Martin Church.

Pinnerkreuz Viewpoint – Head up the main street running perpendicular to the river and you will find one of the lesser known but best attractions of Cochem. The Pinnerkreuz viewpoint offers a brilliant view over the town and castle and best of all you can get a cheap cable-car all the way up! Enjoy some drinks at the café on the summit while you take in the spectacular view.

Tour a Winery (Weingut) – This region is famous for its Reislings and the area around Cochem boasts a number of excellent wineries. If you can’t make it to a winery then don’t forget to try a couple of glasses at one of the lovely local restaurants. Book a Mosel Valley wine tour here.

Where to Stay in Cochem

After a big first day you can spend the night relaxing in Cochem ready for an early start to Burg Elz. We recommend staying in town because once you taste the local wine you might not be able to stop at one glass! See below for some great options in Cochem town including where we stayed. Remember to check that they provide parking!

Budget: Stumbergers Hotel

This is where we stayed in Cochem and we were more than happy. Situated right on the river and a short stroll from town, we were really impressed with the exceptional cleanliness and comfort of the room.

Some rooms provide an amazing castle view and there is a lovely restaurant/beer garden on site. Breakfast is included so you can get off nice and early the next day. Free parking is included with your stay. Book your stay at Stumbergers Hotel.

Mid-Range: Union Hotel

If you want to stay right in town then check out Union Hotel. Apart from the great location right near all the best sites and restaurants, it features a deck with river views and an excellent free breakfast. The rooms are clean and very tastefully decorated. Book your stay at Union Hotel.

Splurge: Hotel Germania

Based in an 18^th century historical building right in the town centre, stay here to enjoy the best breakfast in town included in your room rate. The Hotel Germania may also have the best wine in town given it produces its own brand at a nearby vineyard. Try the wine on your private balcony or terrace with castle views or organise a tour to the vineyard. Book your stay at Hotel Germania.

→Browse more accommodation options in Cochem←

Burg Elz

Today is a big day and the sites start off in spectacular fashion with a trip to the jaw-dropping Burg Elz. Visiting this epic castle was a huge highlight of our German road trip!

If you want to get the best pictures free of crowds then make sure you head off early, the opening time of Burg Elz is 9:30am so plan to be there at least an hour prior. We arrived at 8:00am and there were already a few photographers setting up their tripods outside the castle at that time.

Once it opens you can enter and look around the castle, viewing the treasury and armoury with a number of artefacts, then visit café inside to reward yourself for the early rise.

The parking area for Burg Elz is not within site of the castle and it is not allowed to drive down. There is a lovely 1.3km forested trail that winds its way down to the front entrance with some spectacular views along the way. Alternatively, the walk down the paved road is 800m or if you cannot walk this distance there is a shuttle bus that operates during opening hours down the same road.

There are a number of beautiful hikes around Burg Elz anywhere from 35 minutes to 5 hours length. See the castle from a different perspective or hike 9.5km to the nearby Pyrmont castle and get a shuttle bus back.

You must however keep in mind that unless you are extending the itinerary then you still have the longest drive of the trip ahead of you today so make sure to leave some time to explore Würzburg this afternoon.

Opening Times

Early April to Late October

9:30am to 5:30pm

Tickets

Free to view from outside, enter the courtyard and hike the surrounding trails.

Entry to the castle itself costs €11 for adults with discounts for families and children.

See the official website for up-to-date prices and opening times.

Würzburg

When you are finished exploring the beautiful Burg Elz, jump on the autobahn for the journey into Northern Bavaria and the beautiful city of Würzburg. It’s a bit of a drive but once this is behind you then the longest stretch of the trip is done!

Würzburg is located in a beautiful setting, straddling the banks of the river Main and surrounded by hills. The area of Würzburg has had a settlement since the bronze age so it has no lack of history to explore. The beautiful buildings you see today date from the 18^th century however they were all badly damaged during WW2 and had to be carefully reconstructed.

Spend the rest of the day looking around Würzburg, you will have two nights at the next stop so don’t stress about getting there in a hurry. If the weather is nice then don’t miss enjoying a glass of wine on the ‘Old Main Bridge’ with views of the Marienberg Fortress sitting majestically up above the river and fronted by beautiful vineyards; this was our favourite experience in the city.

Highlights of Würzburg

Old Main Bridge (Alte Mainbrücke)

This beautiful arched bridge was built around 1476 and it studded with statues of saints and other important people. It is pedestrian only and has beautiful views back toward the main town and down the river with the Marienberg Fortress up above. You can buy delicious local wine to enjoy on the bridge from a small window in a restaurant at one end.

Marienberg Fortress

Occupying a dominant position above Würzburg, there has been a fortress on this site since the bronze age. The current structure however was built mostly between the 16^th and 18^th centuries. The fortress is surrounded by beautiful vineyards and gardens which you can visit and contains two museums. If you make it out to the fortress, consider walking a little further to the Wallfahrtskirche Mariae Heimsuchung, a beautiful and unique little church (despite the big name!).

The Residenz

Dating from the 18^th century, the Würzburg Residenz is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered a masterpiece of Baroque/Rococo and Neoclassical architecture and art. This is one of the most stunning and elaborately decorated palaces in Germany and shouldn’t be missed. While up on the hill you should also visit the nearby Hofkirche, a really unique and stunning little chapel, free to enter.

Würzburg Market Square

Take a stroll through Würzburg old town and you will come across many other attractions. The outdoor marketplace has vendors selling all sorts of goods and delicious food and is surrounded by a number of other beautiful sites. There are signs around the old town detailing the nearby sites but make sure to check out the Neumuenster and Marienkapelle.

Würzburg Sightseeing Train 

Discover the highlights of the old town on a 40 minute tour by sightseeing train. The journey starts at the the Würzburg Residenz and travels through the historic town centre passing all of the city’s main attractions along the way.

Learn the history of Würzburg from an informative audio guide which is included in the tour. Check prices and availability here.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

After you have finished exploring Würzburg you’ll need to make one more drive to the next overnight stop. You’ll spend two nights here so make sure to choose somewhere nice and with a convenient location.

It’s very difficult to pick a favourite place on this amazing road trip but for us that place would have to be the fairy tale village of Rothenburg. This stunningly well preserved medieval town is an absolute delight to walk around and presents endless photo opportunities.

From walking the medieval walls with views of the countryside, strolling down narrow streets full of half-timbered buildings, to enjoying the sunset over the lush valleys surrounding the town; the hardest thing to do in Rothenburg is taking a break!

The city is believed to have been inhabited since before the 1st century C.E. and parts of the city wall and town can be dated back to the 12^th century. Unlike many other towns in Germany, Rothenburg was not majorly damaged during WW2.

American military commanders knew of the significant history and beauty of Rothenburg and took the extraordinary move of sending a delegation to request the surrender of the town so they could avoid shelling and bombing it.

The German military commander of the town then took the even more extraordinary move of defying Hitler’s orders and surrendered the town to the Americans, thus saving it from destruction and preserving all of the wonderful buildings and history that you can still see today.

Highlights of Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Walking the city walls and gates

The amazingly preserved city walls that surround the entire old city of Rothenburg were first constructed in the 12^th century, with repairs and reinforcements being added as the town grew in wealth.

Every single gate and tower are unique and absolute highlights so I won’t list them individually. Make sure to walk the entire loop, there are informational signs at most of the towers and gates to learn more about the history.

The Castle Garden (Burggarten)

You will actually traverse this garden as you complete the city walls walk but make sure to return for sunset, the views at this time of day are stunning. Walk the perimeter of the garden as you watch the setting sun cast beautiful rays of warm light over the verdant valleys and the picture-perfect town encased within its wall.

The Market Square (Marktplatz)

The market square in the middle of Rothenburg is where you will find some of the most beautiful half-timbered and joyfully coloured medieval buildings in town. The market square also contains The Town Hall (Rathaus) and the Councillor’s Tavern (Ratstrinkstube) with its beautiful clock tower.

Be there on the hour when the clock chimes and you will see the doors open with figures re-enacting the story of the heroic major, who drank almost 4 litres of wine in one go, thus winning a bet and saving his city from destruction.

The Museum of City History (Museum zur Stadtgeschichte)

Situated just outside of the market square, this museum tells the history of Rothenburg and the thirty years war. The museum contains antiques and artifacts, themed rooms showing life in the medieval town and an ancient dungeon underneath the town hall. Make sure you also head up the tower for great views over the surrounding city.

Siebers Tower (Siebersturm)

Although this is a tower and included on the city walls walk, this one deserves particular mention. If you have ever searched the web for Rothenburg this is most likely the first picture you will have seen.

This beautiful tower is the setting of the most delightful street scenes in Rothenburg and is a great place to take some photos and then eat lunch at one of the excellent restaurants on the street while you take in the view.

Top Tip: Seeing as this is such a popular, post-card worthy location, you can bet the hordes will be out in full force. If you’d like a crowd free photo here, then it goes without saying that you’ll need to set the alarm clock for the crack of dawn.

We arrived at around 8am but we were already battling with garbage trucks and school kids to get a clean shot. Bonus points if you get there before 8! Click here for the exact location of the photo above.

Where to Stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

As previously mentioned, if you are following this itinerary exactly then you will spend two nights in Rothenburg to make the most of this amazing town. Why not spoil yourself and pick somewhere special for the two night stay? This is certainly the perfect place for it! Here’s our picks of some of the top places to stay that include parking.

Budget: Hotel-Gasthof Goldener Greifen

You absolutely cannot beat this place for value for money. Situated right on the market square in the middle of Rothenburg and housed in one of the most attractive little buildings in town, this place gives you the perfect location from which to explore.

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast in the amazingly decorated restaurant on site. If you don’t stay here then at least pass by to take a photo! Book your stay at Hotel-Gasthof Goldener Greifen.

Mid-Range: Wildbad Tagungsort Rothenburg O.D.Tbr.

You cannot overstate how beautiful both the inside and outside of this building are! This may be the one chance you get to stay in a palace and experience what it feels like to be royalty.

The hotel is tucked away just outside the old town and will require a short and very picturesque walk to get into town. It has beautiful terraces and riverside gardens to enjoy as well as being a great location from which to take walks through the valley. Book your stay at Wildbad Tagungsort Rothenburg O.D.Tbr.

Splurge: Burghotel

Experience the life of the 12^th century aristocracy in this stunning historic hotel. The building dates back to that era and sits in a prime position on the castles wall overlooking the Tauber valley.

The beautifully decorated common areas give way to rooms with 4 post beds and sweeping valley views. An excellent breakfast is provided each morning to fuel your explorations and when you return you relax with treatments from the onsite spa. Book your stay at the gorgeous Burghotel.

→Browse more accommodation options in Rothenburg ob der Tauber←

Dinkelsbühl

Spend the morning walking around Rothenburg before it gets busy with all the day-trippers, once the crowds start to flood in it will be the perfect time to hit the road!

Your first stop for today is another beautifully preserved medieval town; Dinkelsbühl dates back to the time of the Holy Roman Empire and is another place where you can step back in time for a day. The town is still surrounded by medieval walls and has preserved many of the beautiful old buildings.

If you arrive at the right time you can witness the ‘Kinderzeche’, a re-enactment of when the town was attacked by Swedish troops and as legend has it was saved by the local children. This is worth seeing as there are hundreds of people in traditional Bavarian costumes, a parade through the streets and loads of food and bier!

It really adds to the historical ambience of the town and we can highly recommend it as we accidentally stumbled upon it when visiting the town.

Highlights of Dinkelsbühl

Witnessing the Kinderzeche

As previously described. While potentially difficult to plan your trip around this event, if you happen to be flexible with your holiday dates it is worth keeping in mind. The event lasts for 10 days and it takes place each year during the last weeks of July.

Click here for current dates of the upcoming Kinderzeche festival.

Walk the streets of the old town

As in Rothenburg on the previous stop, one of the best things to do is simply walking the streets of this picturesque town. Walk the walls, taking in the beautiful gate towers and the surrounding countryside and then explore all the streets and alleys of the beautiful old town.

Faulturm

In the north-west corner of town you will find the Debtors’ Prison and Rothenburg Pond, a tranquil and picture perfect area of town to get some nice photos.

Saint Georg’s Minster

If you are a fan of old churches then check out this gargantuan example of medieval architecture. Completed in 1499, this huge church is awe-inspiring from both inside and out, climb the tower for great views over the old town!

Lichtenstein Castle / Hohenzollern Castle

After you’ve had a look around Dinkelsbühl, continue your journey south towards the epic castles and forests of Baden Württemberg. There are two castles to see on this itinerary but don’t rush to see them both today, there is plenty of time in the morning to see one and you will get it free of crowds.

This is another one of those stops where you could easily spend a couple of extra days if you had the time. The hiking opportunities in this part of Germany are amazing and there is some pristine forest and river scenery to enjoy.

There is no fixed location for accommodation here as the castles are out on their own in the countryside, so you can stay wherever you find somewhere nice, within an easy drive from both castles.

If you’re running short on time or just too tired then you could consider skipping Hohenzollern castle as Lichtenstein is arguably the more unique and impressive of the two.

Lichtenstein Castle

I won’t say much about this castle as it is one of those places where a picture speaks a thousand words, so here’s a picture!

We recommend visiting this castle first thing in the morning when it opens, you will have it almost to yourself and get some amazing pictures! Entry is cheap and so is the tour (which is necessary to cross the bridge and enter the castle), however the tour is only in German at the time of writing so it will be purely for the sights.

The surrounding parks and grounds are also beautiful to walk and have some great views over the valley. Seek out the nearby restaurant for a great meal in beautiful forested surroundings.

Tickets: Courtyard with beautiful castle views: €2, Tour the inside of the castle: €8

Opening Hours: The castle’s hours change throughout the year with some months closing it’s doors altogether, click here to view the official website for the most up to date hours.

*Tip* The gorgeous view of Lichtenstein Castle that you see in all the photos can only be seen by paying the €2 to enter the courtyard. It is not possible to view this castle for free/outside of opening hours.

Hohenzollern Castle

There have been three castles on this site, all owned by the House of Hohenzollern, a German Royal Dynasty. The current castle was built in the late 1800s by King Frederick William IV of Prussia as a memorial to his family lineage.

Inside this impressive structure you will find beautifully decorated rooms as well as some interesting historical artifacts such as the crown of Wilhelm II, the last German emperor, and personal items belonging to King Frederick the Great.

Try to visit Hohenzollern Castle in the afternoon following Dinkelsbühl so that you have plenty of time to see Lichtenstein Castle and make it to your next destination tomorrow.

Tickets: €12/adult, €6/children

Opening Hours: Summer hours March 16 – Oct 31: 10am – 5:30pm

Winter hours Nov 1 – March 15: 10am – 4:30pm

Visit the official website for more info on tickets and opening hours.

Where to Stay for Lichtenstein and Hohenzollern Castles

As mentioned previously, there is no specific town we would recommend to stay in this area but we’ve put together a few well-positioned options which make it easy to access both castles. It’s not really worth a splurge here as you will be busy seeing awesome castles for most of your stay and really just need somewhere clean and comfortable to rest your head.

Budget: S-HOF or Ferienwohnung oder Wohnung für Monteure

Both of these properties are in Sonnenbühl, which we found was perfectly positioned for accessing Lichtenstein castle, just a 10 minute drive down a quiet country road.

We stayed in S-HOF and found it to be clean, comfortable and hassle free. The added bonus with both of these properties is that they include a kitchen, meaning you can make a couple of meals if you want to save some money.

Click here to book S-HOF

or

Click here to book Ferienwohnung oder Wohnung für Monteure

Mid-Range: Forellenhof Rössle Hotel & Restaurant

This beautiful property is literally just around the corner from Lichtenstein Castle! It features large modern rooms and an amazing restaurant with a beautiful outdoor eating area surrounded by gardens. Enjoy views of Lichtenstein Castle from the outside of the property or head inside for luxurious spa treatments in rustic surrounds. Book your stay at the Forellenhof Rössle Hotel & Restaurant.

Closer to the action: WachtRaum Reutlingen

If you aren’t one for staying out in the countryside and want to have more dining and drinking options on your doorstep then consider staying in Reutlingen. This is the largest town in the area and still within a reasonable driving distance of both castles.

You will find tastefully decorated themed rooms right on the doorstep of town. This accommodation is excellent value for the price. Book your stay at the WachtRaum Reutlingen.

→Click here to browse more accommodation options near the castles←

Hohenschwangau / Neuschwanstein Castle

Next up you’ll be heading to the lakeside town of Hohenschwangau, the home of the spectacular Neuschwanstein Castle. Don’t stress about leaving super early as this place is best in the early morning or late evening when the giant hordes of day-tourists are at a minimum.

You don’t necessarily have to stay right in town as there are many beautiful guesthouses in the surrounding countryside; we made a tactical decision to stay here as it allowed us to get up super early and walk up to the castle with minimal other visitors.

Hohenschwangau will be a little pricier for your food and drink but there are many options and you can still find some cheap eats scattered around the place. While in town you can visit some of the other sites and take a dip in the serene (but quite chilly) waters of the Alpsee.

Visiting the fairy tale Neuschwanstein Castle is undeniably a highlight of the trip and the best part about a Germany road trip is that you can see it on your terms! We recommend pre-preparing food for a very early breakfast and hiking up before the tour bus crowds arrive.

If you wait until the time that most guesthouses serve breakfast then you will be going up at the same time as everyone else and believe me the endless stream of tour groups will be hot on your tail!

It is not a particularly easy hike up so at least a moderate fitness level will be required, if you are unable to hike steep trails then you will have to wait for the shuttle bus to start operating. I have included a section below on how to reach the best viewpoints of Neuschwanstein.

Highlights of Hohenschwangau

Neuschwanstein Castle

Obviously this one is at the top! The absolute highlight for us was hiking the trail up above the castle to get some amazing views out onto the surrounding countryside. Save your visit to the inside of the castle for later in the afternoon to make the most of your time up in the hills.

See below for a more detailed guide to finding the best Neuschwanstein Castle viewpoints.

Tickets: €13

Hohenschwangau Castle

That’s right there’s two castles! While overshadowed by its more majestic neighbour, this is still a very picturesque and charming castle. The tour inside is well worth it and some say better than the inside of Neuschwanstein. If you’re a photographer then pack a solid zoom lens for some great shots of the castle as you wind your way up the Neuschwanstein trail.

Tickets: €13

Museum of the Bavarian Kings

Perfectly situated on the edge of Alpsee lake is the Museum of Bavarian Kings. The museum is housed inside a beautiful historic hotel and it showcases the history of Bavaria’s most iconic Kings including King Maximilian II and the famous King Ludwig II who was responsible for building Neuschwanstein Castle.

For a perfect day of sightseeing, a visit to this fascinating museum can be easily combined with a visit to one of the castles.

Tickets: €11

Top Tip: Tickets for both castles and the Museum of Bavarian Kings can be purchased at the  Hohenschwangau ticket centre in the town centre. During the summer months, the ticket queues can get quite long. It is possible to reserve a ticket up to 2 days in advance. Click here for more information on reserving your tickets to Hohenschwangau or Neuschwanstein Castle.

Please see the official website for all information regarding opening hours of the castles, purchasing tickets and booking tours.

Alpsee Lake

Visit the lake at the bottom of town for a refreshing swim after your hike up the hill. There are areas for sunbaking and if you’re not a swimmer you can still sit and admire the crystalline waters and surrounding mountains.

Poellat Gorge Trail

If you choose to visit the inside of Neuschwanstein castle then make sure you leave a bit earlier so you can take the scenic route up via Poellat Gorge. This is a beautiful trail running alongside the river and past a number of waterfalls. Again, it is a moderate hike so be prepared, you can always take this trail on the way down for a slightly easier time! Follow signs or ask at your guesthouse for directions.

The Best Neuschwanstein Castle Viewpoints

To find our way up to the best viewpoints of Neuschwanstein we simply used a smartphone with directions from Google maps. The trails are all marked and it is fairly obvious to see the correct route, see the map below for the route we took.

Once you reach the Marienbrucke bridge (the most popular Neuschwanstein Castle viewpoint) you can spend a short while to admire the view but don’t linger too long. Remember you’re trying to beat the crowds and the best views are yet to come!

☞See Google Maps directions for the trail up to the Marienbrucke bridge.

To get to a quieter Neuschwanstein Castle viewpoint with less crowds, continue past the Marienbrucke bridge and you will start down a dirt trail. This appears to be taking you away from the views but don’t worry, it loops back on itself, many times. After 5-10 minutes of walking, you will come to a second smaller viewing platform with a great view overlooking the castle.

We took the above photo directly next to this second viewing platform but bear in mind, it is not an official viewpoint. If you do choose to access this spot, you are doing so at your own risk so please proceed with caution and note that there are no railings or barriers. If you’re travelling with small children, it’s best to stay on the designated platform.

☞See Google Maps for a rough estimate of this lookout.

Even less people continue the hike further up the dirt trail but wow is it ever worth it, just continue following the same trail on wards and upwards to find some more great viewpoints. At this point it is up to you how far you continue, remembering that you have to double back on yourself and come down the same way.

Where to Stay in Hohenschwangau

There aren’t a huge number of accommodation options in this particular town, as it is quite small. You can’t go wrong with staying in the neighbouring towns like Füssen or Schwangau which aren’t too far away from Hohenschwangau.

You’ll notice that the prices in this area are a fair bit higher, but keep in mind you’re paying for the convenience of waking up with the most famous castle in the world at your doorstep.

Budget: Hotel Garni Schlossblick

With its great ratings and excellent location, it’s no wonder this traditional hotel is in such high demand. We chose to stay here and we were very happy with that choice!

Situated in a central location, within short walking distance to all attractions, and a lovely breakfast included (all for a reasonable price), you won’t regret booking a room at Hotel Garni Schlossblick. Book your stay at Hotel Garni Schlossblick.

Mid-Range: Villa Ludwig Suite Hotel

This highly rated hotel provides a comfortable stay within walking distance to the castles of Hohenschwangau. Villa Ludwig Suite Hotel features modern rooms, a spa and hot tub with castle views, and a buffet breakfast.

The rooms feature a flat screen TV, Wi-Fi connection, a balcony (with some rooms boasting castle views). Underground parking is available but comes at an extra cost. Book your stay at Villa Ludwig Suite Hotel.

Splurge: Hotel Das Rübezahl 

Offering a perfect view of Neuschwanstein Castle, a lovely spa to relax at and a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine, Hotel Das Rübezahl makes a great choice for those seeking some extra comfort.

This hotel is located in the neighbouring town of Schwangau, only 1 km from the castles which allows for easy sightseeing access. There is also a pool, a fitness centre, bar and free parking is included in your stay. Book your stay at Hotel Das Rübezahl.

→Click here to browse more hotels in Hohenschwangau←

Munich

Oktoberfest, stunning palaces and massive pretzels – these are a few things that likely come to mind when you think of Munich. Even if you don’t visit during the world-famous Oktoberfest, don’t panic, there are still plenty of steins and pretzels to go around throughout the whole year!

Apart from its notorious beer drinking culture, Munich is known for its elaborate and grandiose palaces. The Residenz is by far one of the most impressive palaces we have ever seen and a visit inside is an absolute must.

Get ready to spend the last 2 days of your Germany road trip, soaking up all things Bavarian in the beautiful city of Munich. Below I have listed a number of tours, tickets and attractions around the city. You likely won’t have time for all of them, but I’ve included them so you have options to choose from.

The Best Tours and Tickets in Munich

Munich Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours 

If you’re staying in Munich for a few days, it’s worth looking into the double-decker hop-on hop-off tour. You can buy a ticket for 1 or 2 days and get on and off the bus at your own pace, as many times as you like.

Discover Munich’s iconic sites with 3 different tours and 13 stops to choose from, all included for one price. Check prices and availability here. 

Munich CityTourCard 

If you choose not to get the hop-on hop-off pass, the Munich CityTourCard makes a good option too. For a reasonable price, this card will give you the flexibility to travel around Munich using unlimited public transportation without having to buy a new ticket each time.

This ticket also includes a wide range of discounts at selected attractions around the city. Click here for more info and to buy your CityTourCard.

Free 3-Hour Walking Tour

Join this free popular 3-hour walking tour to see the highlights of Munich’s old town led by an expert guide. This informative tour will pass through the most famous attractions of Munich and you’ll learn fascinating stories and facts behind each one as you go.

Some of the highlights of this tour include a stroll through the Viktualienmarkt outdoor market, the famous Marienplatz square, the Hofbräuhaus beer hall, and some of the city’s most beautiful cathedrals.

Tickets: €2 – It’s a popular tour so a small pre-booking free applies per person.

Book your 3-hour walking tour here.

Highlights of Munich

Beer Halls, Beer Gardens and Breweries

Munich is home to hundreds of beer gardens and plenty of awesome beer halls to choose from but if you’re short on time, there’s no way you can see even half of them. Below you’ll find a few of our favourite ones from our time spent in Munich.

These are the classic, most famous ones that are guaranteed to give you that proper German beer drinking experience you’re looking for.

Hofbräuhaus – A visit to Munich isn’t complete without at least one trip to the Hofbräuhaus. Dating back to 1589, it’s the oldest and largest beer hall in Munich featuring traditional Bavarian food, the largest beers you’ve ever seen and live “oompah” music.

There is literally no better place in the world to experience true Bavarian beer drinking culture than right here at the Hofbräuhaus. So, get your stein drinking face on and get ready for a lively night out at the world’s most famous beer hall.

Augustine Keller Biergarten – Dating back to 1812, this is Munich’s oldest beer garden! Relax outside among the trees in the warmer months and enjoy a fresh stein of traditional Bavarian beer straight from the wooden barrels. Deliciously large, salty pretzels among other classic German snacks can also be purchased here.

Munich Brewery and Beer Hall Tour – If you’d prefer to sit back and let an experienced guide take you to the most iconic beer halls and breweries of Munich, then this is the tour for you.

On this 3 hour guided tour, you will learn history of the beer making capital of the world and get an exclusive look inside the oldest breweries and beer halls in the city.

Taste Munich’s traditional beers and sample traditional German dishes at the oldest brewery. The tour also includes two complimentary beers. Finish off the tour with a liter of beer at the famous Hofbräuhaus, Prost!

Check tour prices and availability here. 

Munich Residenz

The history of this incredible palace can be traced as far back as 1385 when it was initially built as a castle. Over the centuries, it transformed into what it is today, a magnificent palace with beautiful gardens.

The Residenz served as a home for the Bavarian dukes and kings over the 16^th-20^th centuries. The lavishly decorated rooms and well preserved historic paintings throughout the interior is what makes this palace so impressive. Make sure to take a stroll through the particularly impressive Atiquarium Hall, this was a personal favourite.

Bear in mind it’s easy to spend many hours exploring the Residenz, it’s a huge palace with much to see. Besides the Residenz Museum (where you’ll see all of the gorgeous rooms and halls), for an extra cost you could also visit the Treasury which showcases jewels and crowns of the Bavarian rulers.

The Cuvilliés Theatre is another part of the Residenz that is worth checking out. This stunning theatre was originally built in the 18th century for royalty to watch opera productions. During WWII the building was sadly destroyed with very little surviving.

After the war it was restored and is now open to the public, it’s located near the Residenz and can be visited for an additional cost.

Tickets: Residenz Museum €9-adult free-children, Treasury €9-adult free-children, Cuvilliés Theatre €5-adult free-children

Combo ticket for Museum + Treasury €14

Combo ticket for Museum + Treasury + Cuvilliés Theatre €17

Opening Hours: The palace is open daily, take note of the seasonal hours.

April – Oct 18: 9am-6pm, October 19 – March: 10am-5pm

For further information regarding ticket pricing and opening hours please see the official website.

Marienplatz Square

Centrally located in the heart of the old town, Marienplatz has been Munich’s main square since the year 1158! You’ll most likely find yourself wandering in and out of Marienplatz while sightseeing during your 2 days in Munich. So, while you’re passing through there are a few things you shouldn’t miss out on.

Neues Rathaus – Besides being a lively spot to stop at for drinks, food and shopping, take some time to admire the tower that dominates over the square. This is the “Neue Rathaus” or the New Town Hall which was built in 1874 and is home to Munich’s city government as well as the tourism office.

Try and pop into the square to watch the tower’s clock or the “Rathaus-Glockenspiel” come to life with a special show. Watch as over 30 life sized figures tell stories of Bavaria’s past and listen to the sound of the bells chime. You can catch this free show daily at 11am, 12pm and 5pm.

If a panoramic city view is what you’re after, take an elevator to the top of the 85 meter tower for a breathtaking view over the entire city. Admission to the tower costs €4 per person.

Altes Rathaus – On the other side of the square is the Old Town Hall or the “Altes Rathaus”. This building dates to the 15^th century and was in continuous use until the New Town Hall was built. Sadly, this beautiful old building suffered severe damage during the war and was rebuilt to its original design.

Nowadays, it houses the “Speilzeugmuseum” or the Toy Museum which displays a huge collection of historic toys from all over Europe.

Where to stay in Munich

For easy access to Munich’s main attractions, it’s best to book your accommodation as centrally as possible. Below we’ve listed the best options for each price range.

Budget – Buddy Hotel

An excellent choice for those travelling on a budget, the buddy hotel is within walking distance to the city centre and all the main attractions. The rooms may be very small but as your days are filled with sightseeing, you really just need a place to rest your head.

The Buddy Hotel is where we stayed and we found it clean, comfortable and sufficient for our needs. The rooms include a private bathroom, coffee machine and parking is available at an extra cost. No breakfast is included but free croissants are given out every morning. Book your stay at Buddy Hotel.

Mid-Range – Hotel Munich City

All rooms feature modern décor, a private bathroom, a fridge, TV, free WIFI and a lovely buffet breakfast is served each morning. For those looking to attend Oktoberbest, this hotel is in the perfect location with also being close proximity to Munich city centre and the train station. Book your stay at Hotel Munich City.

Luxury – Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München

This 5-star luxury hotel is perfectly located in the old town, only a 5 minute walk from Marienplatz. It features a spa and pool with panoramic city views, tastefully decorated rooms, a gym, and a delicious breakfast served daily.

The excellent reviews on Booking.com state that the staff are very friendly, the rooms are luxurious and comfortable, and the location couldn’t be better. Book your stay at the Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munchen.

→Browse more accommodation options in Munich←

We hope that our one-week Germany road trip itinerary has helped you to plan the most amazing and unforgettable adventure through Southern Germany. We’re pretty certain that if you follow this itinerary, you’ll be in for an epic time!

I know we say this every time, but this road trip was hands down one of our favourites of all the ones we did in Europe. We would love to hear about your experience on this Germany road trip. So if you have done it, feel free to send us a message or let us know about it in the comments below!😊

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