Romantic Road Day Trip From Munich: Germany’s Most Magical Road Trip
If you’ve ever dreamed of driving through storybook towns, medieval walls, and fairytale castles, the Romantic Road (Romantische Straße) in Germany is exactly what you’re picturing. Winding through southern Germany, this scenic route connects charming villages, rolling countryside, and iconic landmarks. And the best part? You can experience some of its most magical stops in a single day from Munich. It’s been on my bucket list for YEARS, so I’m so glad I was finally able to make it happen (thanks, Oktoberfest). AND, spoiler...it lives up to all the hype.
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Table of Contents
What is The Romantic Road?
The Romantic Road stretches roughly 360 kilometers (~220 miles) from Würzburg to Füssen, weaving through some of Germany’s most picturesque towns and landscapes.
Originally a medieval trade route, it was later branded as a tourist trail in the 1950s to showcase the quintessential charm of southern Germany and boost tourism after WWII. While many travelers choose to spend several days exploring, it’s absolutely possible to enjoy the (some of the) highlights in one unforgettable day trip from Munich.
I hope to return someday to see the rest of the road!
Romantic Road Day Trip From Munich: At A Glance
Here’s what you can expect on a Romantic Road day trip from Munich. If it looks like your kind of adventure, keep reading for all the details!
- Distance: About 500 km round-trip (from Munich Central Station)
- Duration: 10–12 hours (plan for a full day)
Romantic Road Trip Stops (Day Trip from Munich)
- Stop 1: Rothenburg ob der Taueber
- Stop 2: Dinkelsbühl
- Stop 3: Nördlingen
- Stop 4: Harburg Castle
WAIT! I won’t have a car in Germany!
Although having a rental car makes this day trip the easiest, variations of it can be done without a car.
Several guided day tours run directly from Munich and hit many of the same highlights, often combining stops like Harburg Castle and Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
If you prefer more flexibility, you can also take the Romantic Road coach or train connections between select towns. While you won’t have as much freedom to explore smaller stops, it’s still an incredible and stress-free way to see the region’s highlights. This option will take more planning (with stops and transfers), but it is definitely possible.
Romantic Road Itinerary From Munich
Below is a suggested self-drive itinerary (or inspiration for a guided day trip) that includes some of the most charming and historic spots along the Romantic Road. We left our hotel in Munich around 7:00 am in order to arrive in Rothenburg before the tour buses.
Stop 1: Rothenburg ob der Taueber
- Distance from Munich: ~2 hours 30 minutes
- Parking: We parked in P1 Friedrich-Horner-Weg. There was a pay machine that was affordable and took credit cards. A trail into the town was right next to the parking lot. However, it was already almost full when we arrived at 9:30 am so be sure to have some backup options ready.
Start your adventure in one of Germany’s most iconic medieval towns…Rothenburg ob der Tauber. I recommend driving straight to Rothenburg from Munich since this will be your busiest stop (and most picturesque). By arriving early, you will be able to wander the streets for an hour before the crowds and tour buses show up.
Enclosed by perfectly preserved city walls and filled with half-timbered houses, colorful squares, and cobblestone lanes, it feels like stepping back in time. Walk the city walls for panoramic views, visit the Plönlein (the famous photo spot pictured above), and stop by Käthe Wohlfahrt’s Christmas Village if you’re a fan of festive magic year-round. Be sure to save some time to climb the stairs of the town hall for epic views (seen below) and to wander around the medieval crime museum for a gruesome look into the past.
If you only have time for one major stop, make it this one—it’s the heart of the Romantic Road experience.
Stop 2: Dinkelsbühl
- Distance from Rothenburg ob der Tauber: ~40 minutes
- Parking: We parked at P1 Schwedenwiese. It was large, there were plenty of spaces available, and there was even a nice, clean (and free) bathroom available.
Next up is Dinkelsbühl, a lesser-known gem that’s often described as Rothenburg’s quieter (and arguably more authentic) sister. The colorful facades and peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect place for lunch and an aperol spritz. Grab a table at a traditional Bavarian inn, explore the charming market square, and stroll along the old fortifications. We did need cash for our lunch here, but thankfully, there was an ATM at the edge of town because we were NOT prepared #teamcreditcards.
Fun fact: Dinkelsbühl’s historic center survived World War II almost completely untouched, preserving its medieval character perfectly.
Stop 3: Nördlingen
- Distance from Dinkelsbuhl: ~40 minutes
- Parking: Parkplatz Deininger Tor
Continue south to Nördlingen, a town unlike any other—it’s built inside a massive meteor crater! The circular shape of the city walls gives it a unique layout you can best appreciate from above. Climb the St. George’s Church bell tower (Daniel Tower) for sweeping views of the rooftops and the surrounding Ries Crater landscape.
Or, walk the Nordlingen Loop which will take you completely around the village. It’s a fascinating mix of history and geology wrapped in old-world charm.
Stop 4: Harburg Castle
- Distance from Nordlingen: ~20 minutes
- Parking: Onsite
Just a short drive from Nördlingen, you’ll find Harburg Castle, one of Bavaria’s oldest and best-preserved castles. Perched high above the Wörnitz River, this medieval fortress dates back to the 11th century and looks like something straight out of a fairytale. You can take a guided tour to learn about its history or simply wander the grounds and enjoy the stunning views over the valley below. There is a separate fee for each, and it was cash only.
We just walked around the grounds, but in hindsight, I wish we had gone inside (it just didn’t work out with our schedule). Tours depart every hour on the hour.
Note! The castle is only open from 10am-5pm and is closed during the winter months (mid-November to mid-March)
Bonus! Neuschwanstein Castle
I do NOT recommend adding the Neuschwanstein Castle to this day trip. HOWEVER, I did want to add it as it is an epic stop along the Romantic Road (just save it for another day trip).
This world-famous fairytale castle inspired Walt Disney himself and is one of Germany’s most visited landmarks. Even if you don’t go inside, the views from Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge) are unforgettable. Just be sure to book tickets in advance if you plan to tour the interior, as they often sell out.
Here’s a full guide to visiting!
Final Tips for Your Romantic Road Day Trip & Map!
Whether you drive it yourself or join a guided tour, the Romantic Road is a journey through Germany’s most enchanting landscapes and storybook towns. It’s proof that sometimes the journey itself really is the destination. Here’s a map to check out before going!
- Start early—this is a full day, and you’ll want time to enjoy each stop.
- Bring euros for parking, castle tours, and small cafes along the way.
- Wear comfy shoes. You’ll get your steps in! I wore my Vessis.
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