Road Trips in Germany

Germany has so much to offer for the visiting tourists that pursuing all options is practically impossible. What's worth seeing and what to pay special attention to? 

In the forefront, you'll surely find Berlin which is able to delight almost everyone, even the most demanding tourists. As the largest German city, it offers travellers multiple possibilities of spending their free time. Shopping, relaxing in a park, a tour around the museums and art galleries, or a stroll among historic landmarks - these are only a few of the plethora of options available in the city centre. You can also pay a visit at the nearby Potsdam, which is equally interesting.

While travelling around Germany, you shouldn't limit yourself to a tour around the capital. Cities such as Hamburg or Frankfurt are as attractive as Berlin itself. Each of them is characterised by magnificent architecture, well-groomed urban greenery, and well-developed road and tourist infrastructure. 

Cologne, a city located on the River Rhine, gained its popularity owing to Europe's biggest Gothic cathedral. It was constructed in the period between 1248 and 1880 and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A big advantage is the fact that the most important urban attractions are located next to one another so you can see the whole area on foot. 

Each lover of motorisation should visit Stuttgart, where you can find the famous Mercedes-Benz Museum that can boast more than 1,500 exhibits. While travelling around Baden-Württemberg, it's also worth visiting Hohenzollern Castle which overlooks the nearby towns. Located at an altitude of 855 metres above sea level, it is visible from a distance of several kilometres. At a stone's throw, you'll also find Heidelberg, with an extensive Old Town, and Konstanz, where the popular Konstanzer Seenachtfest festival takes place on an annual basis. The festival is combined with a firework show by the Bodensee. 

Probably all travellers heard of Bavaria, the largest and the best developed federal state of Germany. It is here where you can find such cities as Munich, Regensburg, or Nuremberg which can boast stunning landmarks that are proofs of their eventful past. A slightly more humble place is Lindau, which in turn enchants travellers with its scenic location near the Bodensee. If you want to see a fairy-tale edifice, you should travel to Schwangau where you'll find Neuschwanstein Castle, visited by around 1.3 million people on an annual basis. 

What other towns to include in your travel plan? Koblenz, with the famous German Corner, Dresden, full of grandly castles and palaces, Lübeck, dominated by 4 Gothic churches, and Schwerin, with a bastion constructed at the turn of the 10th and 11th centuries.

If your thirst for adventure hasn't been quenched yet, you should definitely head for Bremen, which will enchant you with charming narrow streets, or for Münster, which is considered one of the most attractive cities of Westphalia. However, don't forget about the smaller cities such as Wismar or Bamberg, which also have their own charm and unique ambiance that you won't experience even in the most developed metropolises. 

Suggested Road Trips in Germany

• Romantic Road - This scenic route runs for roughly 350 km from Würzburg to Füssen, passing through some of the most picturesque villages and towns in Bavaria. Along the way, you'll encounter stunning medieval architecture, rolling hills, and beautiful landscapes, making it one of the most popular road trip destinations in Germany.

• The Black Forest - Located in southwestern Germany, this scenic drive takes you through the heart of the Black Forest, a region renowned for its rolling hills, dense forests, and clear streams. Highlights along the way include the famous spa town of Baden-Baden and the medieval city of Freiburg.

• The Bavarian Alps - For those who love scenic drives, the roads winding through the Bavarian Alps are a must. This trip takes you through some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in Germany, with breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows. Along the way, you can visit charming villages and towns, such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Berchtesgaden.

Motorists travelling around Germany are approached with great trust by the authorities. It becomes evident in the fact that there are no speed limits on motorways. However, it doesn't mean that German streets are governed by insubordination and that you can break the rules with impunity. It's the other way round. The rules are meticulously enforced. Failing to maintain an appropriate distance during taking over may lead to a ticket amounting up to a few hundred Euros!

Speed limits depend on the road type as well as driver's experience and car weight. Speed limits for vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tons are 50 km/h (in built-up areas), 100 km/h (in rural areas), and 130 km/h (on expressways). Motorists who have less than 2 years of experience mustn't exceed the speed of 90 km/h on expressways and 100 km/h on motorways. Note! Built-up areas are marked with yellow road signs displaying the town or city name. 

A similar situation can be encountered in case of breath alcohol content. When it comes to motorists with small experience who are younger than 21, there is zero tolerance to any breath alcohol content. More experienced drivers are allowed for a greater leeway; however, they will have to face strict consequences if they exceed 0.05%. 

Using a mobile phone during driving is forbidden, but this problem can be solved by using hands-free sets. If your youngest passengers are shorter than 150 cm, remember about a special child seat. Never park your vehicle on the pavement. You can leave your car only in parking lots and on the right side of the street. 

In case of a road check, you'll be asked to show such documents as your ID or passport, driver's licence, liability insurance, registration document, and vehicle inspection certificate. 

The obligatory car equipment includes a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a warning triangle. Only professional drivers are required to carry a reflective vest. Vehicles that are heavier than 3.5 tons should also be equipped with a portable lamp that the driver should use to illuminate the warning triangle if need be. 

Even though using German motorways is free of charge, the situation changes in case of some of the tunnels and cities that are part of the so-called Umwelt Zone, that is the green zone. Before entering the zone, you need to purchase a special vignette with information on the amount of exhaust fumes emitted by your car. The sticker can be bought for a few Euros at an authorised car workshop, motor vehicle diagnostic station, or in the department of traffic and communication.

• Road conditions: Germany is known for its excellent road infrastructure, but it's always a good idea to check for road closures or detours before you set out on your road trip.

• Speed limits: In Germany, it's important to follow speed limits, especially on the autobahns, where speed limits may change frequently.

• Fuel prices: Fuel prices in Germany can vary, so it's a good idea to plan your stops at petrol stations in advance.

• Parking: In larger cities and tourist areas, parking can be limited, so be prepared to park in a parking garage or pay for street parking.

• Language barrier: Although many Germans speak English, it's a good idea to brush up on basic German phrases, especially if you plan to venture off the beaten path.

• Weather: Germany's weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain, snow, or sunshine, depending on the time of year and region you're visiting.

• Maps and navigation: Consider investing in a good map or GPS navigation system, especially if you plan to explore less-traveled roads.

The best time of year for a road trip in Germany depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. Here are some things to consider:

• Summer (June-August): Summer is a popular time to visit Germany, with warm weather and long days perfect for exploring the country. However, this is also the busiest season, with crowds and higher prices for accommodations and activities.

• Spring (March-May): Spring in Germany brings milder weather and blooming flowers, making it a great time to visit botanical gardens and parks. The crowds are generally smaller than in the summer, but the weather can still be unpredictable.

• Fall (September-November): Fall in Germany brings cooler temperatures and changing leaves, making it a great time to visit the country's forests and hiking trails. The crowds are generally smaller than in the summer, but the weather can be unpredictable and some attractions may be closed.

• Winter (December-February): Winter in Germany brings cold temperatures and possible snow, making it a great time to visit Christmas markets and enjoy winter sports. However, some attractions may be closed during this time, and driving conditions can be more challenging.

Overall, the best time for a road trip in Germany may depend on your interests and what you want to experience during your trip. Consider the weather, crowds, and activities you want to participate in before choosing the best time for your road trip.

The cost of a road trip in Germany can vary greatly depending on your travel style, preferences, and budget. However, generally speaking, Germany is a relatively expensive destination, particularly when it comes to accommodations and transportation.

For a budget traveler, the average cost per day could be around 50-100 euros, assuming you stay in budget accommodations like hostels or camping sites, cook your own meals or eat at local restaurants, and limit your activities to free or low-cost options.

For mid-range travelers, you can expect to spend around 100-200 euros per day per person. This would include staying in mid-range hotels or vacation rentals, dining out in local restaurants, and participating in some paid activities like guided tours or excursions.

If you are looking for luxury travel, the cost can easily exceed 300 euros or more per day per person, including staying in high-end hotels or resorts, dining at fine restaurants, and indulging in exclusive experiences.

When it comes to renting a car in Germany, the cost can range from around 30-100 euros per day for a budget car, up to 200-300 euros or more per day for a luxury or specialty vehicle. You'll also need to factor in the cost of fuel, which can vary depending on the vehicle and the current gas prices.

Other costs to consider when planning a road trip in Germany include tolls, parking fees, and admission fees for attractions and activities. These expenses can add up quickly, so it's important to budget accordingly.

Overall, while Germany may be an expensive destination, the country's rich culture, history, and natural beauty make it a worthwhile trip for those who are willing to spend a little extra. With a little planning and budgeting, a road trip in Germany can be an unforgettable experience.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that I recommend for a road trip in Germany:

• Lonely Planet Germany: This guidebook covers all aspects of traveling to Germany, including culture, history, and practical travel information. It includes detailed maps and suggested itineraries for exploring the country.

• Michelin Germany Map: This is a detailed road map of Germany that includes all of the country's major roads and topography, as well as information on rest areas and other points of interest.

• Rick Steves Germany: This guidebook provides comprehensive coverage of Germany's attractions, activities, and culture, as well as practical travel advice. It includes maps and suggested itineraries.

• ADAC TourBooks Germany: This guidebook series provides detailed information on Germany's regions, including suggested driving tours and recommendations for accommodations and dining.

• National Geographic Germany Adventure Map: This map covers all of Germany's topography, including mountain ranges, national parks, and cultural sites. It also includes information on hiking trails and other outdoor activities.

These guidebooks and road maps should provide you with all the information you need to plan and execute a successful road trip in Germany.

Here are some recommended reads before taking a road trip in Germany:

• "A Tramp Abroad" by Mark Twain: This classic travelogue recounts Twain's journey through Germany, providing a humorous and insightful look at German culture and society in the late 19th century.

• "Germany: A Guide to the Must-See Cities in Germany!" by Sam Spector: This guidebook provides an overview of Germany's major cities and their top attractions, making it a useful resource for planning a road trip itinerary.

• "Germania: In Wayward Pursuit of the Germans and Their History" by Simon Winder: This book provides a humorous and irreverent look at German history, culture, and society, providing a unique perspective on the country and its people.

• "The Berlin Wall: A World Divided, 1961-1989" by Frederick Taylor: This book provides a comprehensive history of the Berlin Wall and its impact on Germany and the world, making it a fascinating read for anyone interested in modern German history.

• "The Castle" by Franz Kafka: This classic novel by one of German-speaking most famous writers tells the story of a man who arrives in a small village to work as a land surveyor, only to find himself trapped in a bureaucratic nightmare. It provides a fascinating insight into German society and culture in the early 20th century.

These books should provide you with a deeper understanding of German culture, history, and society, making your road trip in Germany a more enriching and rewarding experience.