Germany Route: 18 Places to See from Rothenburg to Berlin

Explore Germany's most iconic destinations across 5,092.5 km, from the medieval charm of Rothenburg ob der Tauber and dramatic chalk cliffs of Jasmund National Park to world-famous landmarks like Neuschwanstein Castle and Berlin's Brandenburg Gate. This route connects fairytale castles, historic cities, and scenic natural attractions including the Romantic Rhine valley with its 40 medieval castles.

Mode
Places
Start
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
End
Old Bridge
Stops
18
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Rothenburg ob der Tauber — Walled medieval city on a plateau overlooking the Tauber river; visit the Town Hall, seat of city government since medieval times.
  2. Rügen Island — Germany's largest island featuring dramatic white chalk cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming seaside resorts along the Baltic coast.
  3. Jasmund National Park — Star attraction on Rügen Island, famous for unique chalk cliffs.
  4. Cape Arkona — East Germany's northernmost tip; features an old lighthouse and remnants of a Slavic castle.
  5. Romantic Rhine — UNESCO-listed river valley dotted with medieval castles, terraced vineyards, and picturesque villages spanning 65 kilometers of scenic landscape.
  6. Cologne Cathedral — Stunning Gothic church; the city's informal symbol.
  7. Semper Opera — The most widely esteemed cultural institution in Dresden.
  8. Philosopher's Walk — Scenic footpath in Heidelberg walked by philosophers and professors throughout history.
  9. Neuschwanstein Castle — Most photographed building in Germany; nestled in the Bavarian Alps near Fussen; one of Europe's most popular tourist destinations.
  10. Brandenburg Gate & Reichstag — Iconic neoclassical monuments symbolizing German reunification, offering panoramic city views and insights into the nation's complex political history.
  11. Checkpoint Charlie — Historic Cold War site where portions of the Berlin Wall still stand.
  12. Lorelei — The deepest and most narrow section of the Rhine Gorge.
  13. Bingen — Gateway to the Romantic Rhine stretching between Bingen and Bonn.
  14. Twelve Romanesque Churches — Magnificent examples of medieval architecture in Cologne.
  15. Frauenkirche — Stunning historic cathedral in Dresden.
  16. Holstentor — The most famous of the old city gates in Lübeck's Altstadt historic district.
  17. Heidelberg Castle — Historic treasure and iconic landmark of Heidelberg.
  18. Old Bridge — Medieval bridge and historic treasure of Heidelberg.

Useful for your trip

Timing
Visit Rothenburg in December to experience its outstanding Christmas market.
Tip
Climb the steps of Rothenburg's 13th-century Town Hall tower for stunning views of the city.
Tip
Jasmund National Park features unique chalk cliffs rising 528 feet over the sea.
Transport
Experience the Romantic Rhine by riverboat cruise to see the Rhine Gorge, medieval castles, and terraced vineyards.
Tip
Visit the Lorelei, the deepest and most narrow section of the Rhine Gorge featuring a large, treacherous rock.
Tip
Walk through Lübeck's narrow streets in the Altstadt to view historic sites including the cathedral, 12th century Town Hall, and the Holstentor city gate.
Tip
Walk the Philosopher's Walk, a scenic footpath in Heidelberg historically walked by philosophers and professors.
Tip
Neuschwanstein Castle, nestled in the Bavarian Alps near Fussen, is the most photographed building in Germany and inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Timing
Oktoberfest in Munich draws millions of visitors yearly for beer tents, Bavarian food, and festivities.
Tip
In Berlin, visit the Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag, and see remaining portions of the Berlin Wall near Checkpoint Charlie.

Video on this route

10 Best Places to Visit in Germany - Travel Video

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