By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network, Li Xinyi, compiled and reported. Information provided by Mofo 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 fairy-tale castles — the route to Neuschwanstein Castle.
The cities along the way, each with their own unique charm, have helped keep this German travel route enduringly popular. Towns like Rothenburg, which retains its medieval character, were spared from destruction during World War II thanks to their beauty. Augsburg, a 2,000-year-old city, boasts Germany’s largest Renaissance architecture. And then there’s Neuschwanstein Castle, witness to the rise and fall of a tragic king, which inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and brings to life a fairytale-like story scene.
Marienberg Fortress stands on a hill in Würzburg, serving a defensive purpose. (Image provided by Mofo Editorial Department)
1. Würzburg
Würzburg suffered extensive damage during World War II but was meticulously rebuilt and has become the first stop on the Romantic Road. For those wanting 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. Entry to the Residence requires a guided tour, so it’s recommended to check the available tour slots in advance before exploring other sights in the city. The old town of Würzburg is pedestrian-friendly, where you can visit the solemn and majestic Marienberg Fortress (Festung Marienberg), stroll along the banks of the Main River to the Alte Mainbrücke (Old Main Bridge), and admire the picturesque riverside scenery. Finally, walk along Domstraße to see the Dom Sankt Kilian (St. Kilian's Cathedral), one of Germany’s finest Romanesque cathedrals, originally built in the 11th and 12th centuries.
The Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features frescoes in its Staircase Hall painted by master artist Tiepolo. (Image provided by Mofo Editorial Department)
2. Rothenburg
Rothenburg is located at the intersection of the Romantic Road and the Castle Road. It still retains the charm of a medieval town, with well-preserved city walls and gates, and storybook houses lining the stone streets that look different in daylight and at night — a sight that never fails to amaze visitors.
From May 25 to 28, Rothenburg will hold the “Der Meistertrunk” (The Master Draught) festival. (Image provided by Mofo Editorial Department)
3. Augsburg
Augsburg is the oldest city in Bavaria and the second oldest in Germany. Established by the Romans as early as 15 BC, many remnants of Roman architecture can still be seen today. It was once a major financial hub in Europe, home to numerous wealthy families, making the city filled with opulent mansions. Among them, the Fugger family stands out for having built the world’s earliest social housing complex, which still operates to this day.
Augsburg Town Hall is the largest Gothic building of the Renaissance period. (Image provided by Mofo Editorial Department)
4. Füssen
Füssen was once a trading post between Augsburg and Italy. Most travelers would stay overnight here before continuing their journey, and the frequent commercial activity made this small town prosperous. Today, Füssen is the southern endpoint of the Romantic Road. Nestled at the foot of the Alps and surrounded by magnificent mountain and lake scenery, it is also home to the New and Old Castles of Neuschwanstein. Neuschwanstein Castle, the most iconic castle in Germany, embodies fantasy and fairytale elements. To see this masterpiece, most tourists pass through Füssen, helping the town maintain its liveliness and prosperity.
Füssen is located at the foot of the Alps. The yellow building in the lower right corner of the image is the Hohes Schloss (High Castle). (Image provided by Mofo Editorial Department)
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