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Road Trips in Germany

Germany is a fantastic destination for a road trip, offering a wealth of scenic routes and picturesque landscapes. The country's well-maintained road network makes it easy to navigate from one destination to the next, and its rich cultural and historical heritage means there's always something interesting to see and experience along the way.

One of the highlights of a road trip in Germany is the opportunity to explore the country's stunning natural beauty, from the rolling hills of the Bavarian Alps to the rugged coastlines of the Baltic and North Seas. For those interested in outdoor activities, Germany is home to a variety of national parks and nature reserves, as well as numerous lakes and rivers that are ideal for fishing, boating, and swimming.

In addition to its natural attractions, Germany is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, and there are many fascinating cities and towns to visit along the way. From the medieval charm of the half-timbered buildings in the Bavarian town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, to the cosmopolitan flair of Berlin, there's something for everyone in this country.

If you're a fan of automotive culture, then a road trip in Germany is a must. The country is home to some of the world's most iconic car brands, including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Porsche, and you'll have the chance to visit their museums and production facilities along the way.

When planning a road trip in Germany, it's important to keep in mind that traffic laws are strictly enforced, and the roads are well maintained, with plenty of rest areas and services available. Additionally, there are many charming hotels and guesthouses dotted along the way, providing a comfortable and convenient base from which to explore the country.

In conclusion, Germany is a destination that offers something for everyone, from breathtaking natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, to automotive heritage and modern cities. Whether you're traveling alone, with family, or with friends, a road trip in Germany is a fantastic way to experience the best that this beautiful country has to offer.

Expect on your itinerary

Urban life Urban life
Value Value
Historical sites Historical sites
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Shopping Shopping
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Security Security

Best months to drive

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VII VIII IX X XI XII
 

Discover Road Trips in Germany

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Germany Road Trip Germany Road Trip
Germany Road Trip
Europe - Germany
3,137 km 70 km/h 20 days roadtrip
Rhine River Valley Road Trip Rhine River Valley Road Trip
Rhine River Valley Road Trip
Europe - Germany
226 km 53 km/h 2 days scenic
Romantic Route Road Trip Romantic Route Road Trip
Romantic Route Road Trip
Europe - Germany
373 km 60 km/h 4 days roadtrip
Hanseatic League Road Trip Hanseatic League Road Trip
Hanseatic League Road Trip
Europe - Germany
594 km 44 km/h 7 days roadtrip
German Alley Road Trip German Alley Road Trip
German Alley Road Trip
Europe - Germany
1,348 km 53 km/h 12 days roadtrip
Liebfrauen Road Trip Liebfrauen Road Trip
Liebfrauen Road Trip
Europe - Germany
313 km 47 km/h 4 days roadtrip
Castle Route Road Trip Castle Route Road Trip
Castle Route Road Trip
Europe - Germany
533 km 46 km/h 5 days roadtrip
Munich to Lake Constance Panoramic Road Munich to Lake Constance Panoramic Road
Munich to Lake Constance Panoramic Road
Europe - Germany
261 km 56 km/h 2 days scenic
3 Cultures Central Europe Road Trip 3 Cultures Central Europe Road Trip
3 Cultures Central Europe Road Trip
Europe - Germany
2,304 km 62 km/h 16 days roadtrip
Watzmann Scenic Drive Watzmann Scenic Drive
Watzmann Scenic Drive
Europe - Austria
116 km 54 km/h 1 days scenic
Six Mountain Passes Road Trip Six Mountain Passes Road Trip
Six Mountain Passes Road Trip
Europe - Germany
264 km 49 km/h 2 days scenic
Danube River Road Trip Danube River Road Trip
Danube River Road Trip
Europe - Austria
350 km 46 km/h 3 days roadtrip
German Alps Road Trip German Alps Road Trip
German Alps Road Trip
Europe - Germany
827 km 58 km/h 8 days roadtrip
4 Mountain Passes Panoramic Road 4 Mountain Passes Panoramic Road
4 Mountain Passes Panoramic Road
Europe - Austria
131 km 49 km/h 1 days scenic
Fairy Tale Road Trip Fairy Tale Road Trip
Fairy Tale Road Trip
Europe - Germany
716 km 69 km/h 5 days roadtrip
Nibelungen Road Trip Nibelungen Road Trip
Nibelungen Road Trip
Europe - Germany
407 km 59 km/h 5 days roadtrip
Black Forest Road Trip Black Forest Road Trip
Black Forest Road Trip
Europe - Germany
211 km 40 km/h 2 days scenic
German Barock Road Trip German Barock Road Trip
German Barock Road Trip
Europe - Germany
304 km 49 km/h 3 days roadtrip
To the Lakes Panoramic Road To the Lakes Panoramic Road
To the Lakes Panoramic Road
Europe - Germany
163 km 54 km/h 2 days scenic
Garmisch Partenkirchen to Salzburg Road Trip Garmisch Partenkirchen to Salzburg Road Trip
Garmisch Partenkirchen to Salzburg Road Trip
Europe - Germany
260 km 52 km/h 3 days scenic
Oetztal Transalp Road Trip Oetztal Transalp Road Trip
Oetztal Transalp Road Trip
Europe - Germany
302 km 52 km/h 2 days scenic
Europe to Central Asia Overland Road Trip Europe to Central Asia Overland Road Trip
Europe to Central Asia Overland Road Trip
Europe - Germany
8,297 km 77 km/h 24 days roadtrip
Boleslawiec County Road Trip Boleslawiec County Road Trip
Boleslawiec County Road Trip
Europe - Poland
109 km 38 km/h 2 days scenic
Wetterstein Scenic Loop Wetterstein Scenic Loop
Wetterstein Scenic Loop
Europe - Germany
215 km 48 km/h 1 days scenic
Riedbergpass im Allgäu Panoramic Road Riedbergpass im Allgäu Panoramic Road
Riedbergpass im Allgäu Panoramic Road
Europe - Germany
34 km 51 km/h 1 days scenic
Oberjochpass im Allgäu Panoramic Road Oberjochpass im Allgäu Panoramic Road
Oberjochpass im Allgäu Panoramic Road
Europe - Germany
41 km 47 km/h 1 days scenic
Ammersattel Panoramic Road Ammersattel Panoramic Road
Ammersattel Panoramic Road
Europe -
54 km 44 km/h 1 days scenic
Scharnitz Pass Panoramic Road Scharnitz Pass Panoramic Road
Scharnitz Pass Panoramic Road
Europe - Germany
47 km 49 km/h 1 days scenic
Kesselberg Panoramic Road Kesselberg Panoramic Road
Kesselberg Panoramic Road
Europe - Germany
35 km 45 km/h 1 days scenic
Achenpass Panoramic Road Achenpass Panoramic Road
Achenpass Panoramic Road
Europe - Germany
42 km 61 km/h 1 days scenic
Spitzingsattel Panoramic Road Spitzingsattel Panoramic Road
Spitzingsattel Panoramic Road
Europe - Germany
38 km 33 km/h 1 days scenic
Ursprung Pass Panoramic Road Ursprung Pass Panoramic Road
Ursprung Pass Panoramic Road
Europe - Germany
40 km 57 km/h 1 days scenic
Rossfeld Panoramic Road Rossfeld Panoramic Road
Rossfeld Panoramic Road
Europe - Germany
28 km 32 km/h 1 days scenic

Road Trip Highlights 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

Most important traffic regulations in Germany

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. 

Germany: required documents and car equipment

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. 

Toll roads in Germany

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.

When taking a Road Trip in Germany

Best Time for taking a Road Trip in Germany

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:

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.

How expensive is a Road Trip in Germany

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.

Guidebooks and Road Maps for Road Trip in Germany

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

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

Good Reads before taking a Road Trip in Germany

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

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.

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