Romantic Getaways in Germany

Taking a ride down the Romantic Road in Bavaria with your sweetheart – can it get anymore, well, romantic than that? The scenic route leads you from the Franconia Wine Country to the foothills of the Alps; on your way, enjoy unspoiled nature, picturesque towns with city walls, towers and half-timbered houses, hidden monasteries, and enchanting hotels.

Guide to the Romantic Road
Photos of the Romantic Road

Neuschwanstein castle, constructed by Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1869, is probably the most romantic building in the world and was the inspiration for Disney’s sleeping beauty castle. Take a horse-drawn carriage up to the fairy tale castle, and then join a tour to marvel at the lavishly decorated rooms of Neuschwanstein. For sweeping views of the castle and the plains beyond, take a short walk up to Mary’s bridge, which crosses a spectacular waterfall.

You too can live like a king and a queen and conjure up your own fairy tale: Stay in one of Germany’s castle hotels. These medieval castles are complete with ancient stone towers, fortified walls, four-poster beds, antique furniture, candlelight restaurants – and all the conveniences of today.

Nestled in the idyllic Neckar river valley, Heidelberg is one of the most picturesque travel destinations in Germany. The city, which was the center of German romanticism in the 18th century, retained much of its original baroque charm until today. Heidelberg has it all for the romantic at heart: enchanting castle ruins, an Old Town with winding streets, charming cafes and historic buildings, and scenic walks in the nearby vineyards.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the best-preserved medieval town in Germany, and its fortified city center is the picture-perfect setting for a blissful vacation. Stroll hand in hand through the narrow cobble stone streets, dine in fine restaurants, walk atop the medieval wall that encircles the old city center, or go to the top of the historical Town Hall for a spectacular view of the Bavarian region.

Pristine beaches, a spectacular dune landscape, traditional thatched-roof houses, gourmet restaurants, and wellness hotels - sounds like your idea of a romantic getaway? Then the island of Sylt, the northernmost tip of Germany, might be the right choice for you and your loved one. Hotel tip: Stay in the exclusive family-run wellness hotel Benen-Diken-Hof, and treat yourself to a couple's massage or a luscious caviar treatment.