Breathtaking palaces and fairytale castles — the most romantic road in the world is in Germany

Text by Li Xinyi, MOOK Travel Life Network / HowToTrip, compiled and reported. Information provided by Mook Editorial Department

Does the Romantic Road really exist? Yes, it’s a scenic route that connects all the most romantic and stunning castles, stretching 350 kilometers from the Main River to the Alps. In ancient times, it was a vital route to the Roman Empire, but today it leads to one of Europe’s most dreamlike fairytale castles — Neuschwanstein Castle.

The charming cities along the way have also helped this German travel route remain timeless. Towns such as Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which retains its medieval charm and was spared from destruction during World War II due to its beauty; Augsburg, a 2,000-year-old city home to Germany’s largest Renaissance-style architecture; and Neuschwanstein Castle, which witnessed the rise and fall of a tragic king — Disney even used it as the blueprint for Sleeping Beauty Castle, bringing the world a storybook-like dreamscape.

1. Würzburg

Würzburg suffered extensive damage during World War II but was meticulously rebuilt, becoming the first stop on the Romantic Road. For those who want to experience Germany’s romantic castles, magnificent palaces, and exquisite churches all in one place, Würzburg is undoubtedly the best choice. It is home to the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided tours are required to enter the residence, so it’s recommended to check the schedule in advance before exploring other attractions in the city. The old town of Würzburg is great for walking tours. Aside from visiting the majestic Marienberg Fortress (Festung Marienberg), you can also stroll along the banks of the Main River to the Alte Mainbrücke (Old Main Bridge) to enjoy the scenic views. Finally, walk along Domstraße to see the Dom Sankt Kilian, one of Germany’s finest Romanesque cathedrals, originally built in the 11th and 12th centuries.

2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Located at the intersection of the Romantic Road and the Castle Road, Rothenburg ob der Tauber still retains the charm of a medieval town, with well-preserved walls, gates, and storybook-like houses lining its stone streets. Its ever-changing appearance between day and night never fails to amaze visitors.

3. Augsburg

Augsburg is the oldest city in Bavaria and the second oldest in Germany. Established by the Romans in 15 BC, many Roman-era structures can still be seen today. It was once a major financial hub in Europe and home to numerous wealthy families, hence the abundance of opulent mansions. Among them, the Fugger family stands out for having created one of the world’s earliest social housing projects, which is still in operation today.

4. Füssen

Füssen was once a key trading post between Augsburg and Italy. Most travelers would stay overnight here before continuing their journey, and the frequent commerce brought prosperity to this small town. Today, Füssen marks the southern end of the Romantic Road. Nestled at the foot of the Alps, it boasts magnificent mountain and lake scenery, complemented by the presence of both Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles. Neuschwanstein Castle, the most iconic in Germany, embodies pure fantasy and fairy-tale charm. To catch a glimpse of its splendor, many visitors pass through Füssen, helping the town maintain its vibrancy and liveliness.