We'll bicycle along Germany's famous Romantic Road which stretches from central Germany to the Austrian Alps. This route provides a link back in time, extending from the Roman occupation of Transalpine Gaul into the medieval and Renaissance periods. Today some of the best-preserved towns and villages from the 15th through the 18th century are strung out like pearls throughout Bavaria. You'll bicycle through the fairy tale landscape of the brothers Grimm and gain a better understanding of this historic part of central Europe. A visit to the extraordinary Neuschwanstein Castle and crossing the border into the Austrian Alps are memorable highlights. Join us for a perfect combination of cycling, nature, and the occasional spa hotel.
***If this sounds great, but you prefer a shorter tour, join us on our 8-day Bicycling Secret Bavaria tour.
* We are happy to match solo travelers who would like to share a room with someone of the same gender. If no match exists, due to hotel pricing, we will charge 50% of the private room charge. This charge will be collected at the time of the final payment. If a roommate assignment is available it will be refunded at the conclusion of the tour.
** For information about what your tour status means please see our FAQ page.
Bad Mergentheim, Augsburg, Castle Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau, Würzburg, Rothenburg on the Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, Landsberg, Austrian Alps
Keep in Mind: We work hard to maintain consistency across all of our tours, but some trips have unique differences. Here are some things to keep in mind about this tour.
Some small sections of dirt paths but easily rideable on any style of bike.
We use charming and modern hotels but A/C or fans may not always be available since they haven't been needed traditionally. Read more on the use of air conditioning in Europe here.
Separated twin beds are rare in many places; instead there will be two mattresses together that sit on the same base.
Includes
11 days, 10 nights accommodation, meals as noted in itinerary, 1 wine and beer tasting, a guided visit of Neuschwanstein castle; and the usual (see below).
Learn more about what is included and what to expect on your Classic tour at the Classic Tour Style page.
Arrive / Depart
Frankfurt am Main Airport (FRA) / Munich Airport (MUC)
Highlights: Bicycle fitting, Test ride, Würzburg baroque architecture
We gather today in Würzburg, a historic medieval center (dating back as early as the 7th century) that sits on the banks of the Main River. Come a day early to explore the exquisite Baroque palace, churches and gardens dating to the 18th century. After fitting bikes this afternoon we'll gather for introductions and dinner together.
Our ride today takes us through the hills of central Germany to the medieval town of Mergentheim. In the early 20th century the name was changed to Bad Mergentheim in honor of the discovery, a century before, of natural mineral springs in the area. Today the village is dominated by the castle complex on the edge of the historic town. Take time this afternoon to explore this wonderfully preserved medieval town. Our hotel tonight has one of the best restaurants in the city so be sure to save your appetite for dinner.
DAY 3: Ride from Bad Mergentheim to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Highlights: Rothenburg, wine tasting
Today we continue through the rolling hills of central Germany to the medieval village of Rothenburg. Perched high above the meanders of the Tauber River, Rothenburg looks perfectly preserved but the town center surrounded by its 14th and 15th century walls was rebuilt after WWII. This afternoon we will visit a special cellar with a beautiful collection of rare varietals. After which we'll continue our wine education and meet one of the last vintners in Rothenburg, who just so happens to own our hotel.
Take your time to enjoy this fabulous medieval city and the views it offers of the Tauber valley. For those who want some cycling we have a relaxing ride towards Bad Windsheim, another opportunity to explore Bavaria's picturesque countryside. We’ll suggest a fascinating open-air museum which will transport you to the last 700 years of Franconian life. After the ride, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the market center and the streets lined with Gothic and half-timber houses, and take a tour on the walls of the city, or explore them on your own.
Highlights: Medieval towns of Feuchtwangen and Dinkelsbühl
We ride over undulating farmlands from one fairy tale village to another today. In contrast to Rothenburg on the Tauber, Dinkelsbühl is indeed nearly perfectly preserved from the middle ages. As early as the 11th century, the town was a major center at the intersection of two medieval trade routes. Tonight is another opportunity to enjoy the rewards of a good handcrafted German kitchen at our top rated hotel restaurant.
Highlights: Ries Basin meteor impact crater, medieval town of Donauwörth, Danube River
The landscape changes today as we pedal across the 12-17 mile wide, nearly circular Ries Basin. Unlike most of the areas we bike, which are a mixture of forests and farmlands, the geology of this area doesn't allow rich forest lands. We are back in the "typical" landscape of Bavaria as we approach historic Donauwörth on the banks of the Danube, western Europe's longest river.
Highlights: Lech River, the Cassian Way, Augsburg, brewery visit
Our ride today takes us up the Lech River valley to Augsburg, which was founded by the Roman emperor Augustus in 15 BC. As you might expect, there is plenty to see here this afternoon. We will visit the award-winning Riegele Brauerei brewery and taste some of their modern beers before a traditional Bavarian dinner.
As we bicycle from Augsburg to Landsberg we are back in the forests and farmlands, which are densely settled with small villages and hamlets all along the way. Under the Holy Roman Empire in the medieval period, Landsberg was a fortified border town separating the duchy of Swabia from that of Bavaria. Historic walls, towers and gates define the architecture of the community, including one of the best town gates in Germany, the "Bavarian Gate."
Highlights: The ancient Claudia Augusta Way, Rosshaupten
Today we continue to parallel the Lech River and the ancient Claudia Augusta Way, which eventually became the medieval trade route that gave its name to the "Romantic Way." Our destination is Füssen. The town sits near King Ludwig's most famous castle, Neuschwanstein, at the foot of the Austrian Alps.
The "faux" medieval Neuschwanstein Castle was built by mad King Ludwig in the late 19th century and is one of the most famous attractions in southern Germany. A predecessor and inspiration for the Disney-style castles that have captured the imagination of children for a century and a half. We'll pedal or walk to the castle for a 35 minute guided visit. After our visit we'll cross the border into Austria to Heiterwang, or nearby Reutte.
Meeting time 2:30 p.m. - on Day 1, meet your fellow cyclists and Tour Leaders at the Day 1 Hotel specified on the itinerary.
Note:
As you are planning, remember that the hotels listed in our itineraries are our primary hotels and are - in rare cases - subject to change. Before you make arrangements, check with us if your tour departure is guaranteed. If your tour departure is out further than 6 months, please also check with us as there might be slight changes to the itinerary.
The below information will help you plan your arrival. For more tips or other routes, you might like Rome2Rio. The fare and timing information listed below is approximate.
We recommend flying into the Frankfurt Airport (FRA).
Arrive at Frankfurt Airport and proceed to Day 1 Hotel
The station for long distance trains is in walking distance to Terminal 1. If you arrive at Terminal 2, you can take the SkyLine or a shuttle bus to move between terminals. Click here for more information.
Train from "Frankfurt (Main) Flughafen Fernbahnhof"* station to Würzburg Hbf (1.5 hours/fares vary)
Taxi from the Würzburg train station to the Day 1 Hotel (5 min/EUR 10). Or walk from the train station to Day 1 hotel click here for map
*The "Main" is part of the city's name and refers to the river Main. It does not denote the main train station. You may also see it written this way: "Frankfurt am Main Flughafen Fernbf"
Look up German train schedules at Bahn.de or Trainline.eu. Questions? See our information on taking trains in Europe here or ask us.
Day 11: Departure Information
Tour ends today in Heiterwang
The tour ends on the final day after breakfast.
Trains from Reutte to Munich are available several times a day.Train tickets will not need to be purchased in advance and Tour Leaders can assist with advice and purchase.
The below information will help you plan your departure. For more tips or other routes, you might like Rome2Rio.
We recommend flying out of the Munich International Airport (MUC)
To get from Reutte to MUC Airport
Walk or taxi (5 min/EUR 10) from the ending hotel to Reutte station
Train from From "Reutte in Tirol" to "München Flughafen Terminal"; 1 change at Munich central station München Hbf to the commuter train S1 or S8 (3 hours 15 min/Fares vary)
Keep in Mind
We work hard to maintain consistency across all of our tours, but some trips have unique differences. Here are some things to keep in mind about this tour.
Some small sections of dirt paths but easily rideable on any style of bike.
We use charming and modern hotels but A/C or fans may not always be available since they haven't been needed traditionally. Read more on the use of air conditioning in Europe here.
Separated twin beds are rare in many places; instead there will be two mattresses together that sit on the same base.
Pre-Trip Planning Checklist
To do right after you booked!
Read through your Reservation Confirmation and After you Book Information (link sent to you by e-mail), it has important information to help you plan your trip!
Check the date on your passport. The expiration date should extend three months past your date of return to your home country.
Refer to your Tour Packet/Itinerary to see step-by-step arrival and departure information for your tour, meeting place and time, if a reservation on a complimentary ExperiencePlus! Shuttle (if applicable) is required, and other important information to help you plan your arrival and departure.
Reserve your flights after you know you have a confirmed tour departure. Please check with our office if you do not know if your trip is confirmed.
Book your pre and post-tour hotel nights.
Begin your chosen training program.
Final payment is due 90 days (120 days for Bike &Barge/Boat tours) prior to the tour start. Please refer to your Invoice and the Final Payment Reminder e-mail we send 10 days prior to the due date for detailed instructions.
We'll email you your access code to Digital Daysheets, Hotel Itinerary, Participant Roster, names and contact information of your Tour Leaders, emergency phone numbers, and other important departure information about 2 weeks prior to your tour start date. All this will be provided to you via a feature called Experiences via the RideWithGPS App (tracks available but not necessary for navigation on Classic, Expedition and Bike & Boat tours).
Day of Your Flight
Get as much sleep on the plane as you can. Pack your one day of cycling gear in your carry-on. See you soon!
What to Expect on Tour
Classic Tour Style
Learn more about what is included and what to expect on your Classic tour at the Classic page.
Rolling hills but not too difficult, picture book scenery, great food, great guides and very compatible group members. I only chose this tour because it fit in the time frame we had. It was one of my favorite tours yet!
Nora B., Junction City, OR - July 2017
Easy cycling, most of it on paths separate from roads. Pleasant farm scenery, prettier approaching mountains at the end of the trip. Many old scenic towns/villages. Very good hotels.
David G., New York, NY - July 2017
The trip was excellent and I can''t think of anything I would change. It was an easy biking cruise through beautiful Bavarian villages. It truly was the "Romantic Road".
Bill S., Whangarie, NZ - July 2017
Another great tour!
Russell B., Arcadia, CA - July 2017
Of the 30 tours we have taken, this one ranks
near the top.
Carolyn and Harold M., Centerville, UT
Like a luxury cruise, only on a bike! What was your favorite experience on this trip?
Too many to count- pedaling in to Fussen and seeing the Alps was amazing. Loved Deutsches Hause hotel in Dinkelsbuhl.
Anne G., Fort Collins, CO
I have been describing it to anyone who will listen as a "must do". We had been to this area of Germany on vacation in the past and have talked about it ever since. We decided that we would make this a once in a lifetime trip but it turns out it will be just the first of a lifetime of cycling trips. We are already looking to schedule our next cycling adventure with ExperiencePlus!
Rich B., Windsor, CO
This was second tour with ExperiencePlus! and was once again very impressed. Love the arrows.
Phillip R., Beverly Hills, NSW
Tour of a lifetime-it is everything that is advertised and more.
Chris L., Orinda, CA
The website description did not do justice to the actual experience.
Nancy and David B., Baltimore, MD
Wonderful, once in a lifetime, trip!!!
Daniel F., Menlo Park, CA
A great, fun trip.
Rod H., Fort Collins, CO
I have told our friends about the scenic countryside, quaint towns, beautiful flowers and gardens, friendliness of the German people, delicious food, perfect cycling on paths and small country roads, good bicycle , super guides, and an overall outstanding experience. Loved the arrows on the roads.
Phyllis M., Hockessin, DE
Fabulous trip. Beautiful scenery - a must!
Susan C., Charlotte, NC
We started looking for our next ExperiencePlus!adventure before we finished this trip.
Scott W., Salisbury, NC
What was your favorite experience on this trip?
Riding bike trails; beautiful countryside; charming villages, litter-free streets; smooth pavements; low to moderate traffic!
Dave F., Columbia, MD
We had a marvellous trip. The tour leaders were nothing short of wonderful.
The path system, scenery, towns, were amazing.
Irwin F., Toronto, Canada
My favorite experience was riding through the foothills of the Alps singing the songs from The Sound of Music on a sunny warm day.
Sari R., Glastonbury, CT
We had a great time. Finished up in Munich with a fine Bavarian beer to celebrate my birthday. Our best to all of you until we ride together again!
Mike H., Sewell, NJ
Riding in Bavaria on the last day in Heidi and Sound of Music country. I felt like I was in a post card. Days like this are why I cycle.
Linda M., Livermore, CA
Great trip. Great tour leaders. Great bikes. Wonderful German scenery, medieval towns, countryside, people.
Gentle terrain includes mostly undulating/flat sections and a rare longer climb (less than 3 km - 2 miles) with an average grade less than 3%.
Rolling Hills
Rolling hills featuring multiple gentle slopes (average grade of 3-4%) usually less than 3 km (2 miles). There may also be an occasional shorter (less than 2 km -1 mile) but steeper climb. Or a longer climb where the average grade is less than 3%.
Hilly
Hilly terrain has climbs up to 3 km (2 miles) with an average grade between 4% and 6%. There may also be climbs longer than 3 km (2 miles), but with an average grade less than 4%.
Very Hilly
Very hilly terrain includes one or more climbs, some of which maintain an average grade (meaning you will have short sections both steeper and less steep in the same climb) of 7% and 8% for no more than 3 km (2 miles). There will also be some longer climbs, but with a lower average grade.
Mountainous
Mountainous terrain includes one or more climbs with an average grade over 8%. Mountainous rides can also include longer climbs (more than 5 km - 3 miles) with an average grade up to 6%.
Level 1 - 1.5
For those desiring gentle rides with a limited amount of climbing.
Level 5, also known as our Expeditions, are multi-week tours designed for strong riders looking for the challenge of riding across countries or continents.
Gentle terrain includes mostly undulating/flat sections and a rare longer climb (less than 3 km - 2 miles) with an average grade less than 3%.
Hilly
Hilly terrain has climbs up to 3 km (2 miles) with an average grade between 4% and 6%. There may also be climbs longer than 3 km (2 miles), but with an average grade less than 4%.
Very Hilly
Very hilly terrain includes one or more climbs, some of which maintain an average grade (meaning you will have short sections both steeper and less steep in the same climb) of 7% and 8% for no more than 3 km (2 miles). There will also be some longer climbs, but with a lower average grade.
Mountainous
Mountainous terrain includes one or more climbs with an average grade over 8%. Mountainous rides can also include longer climbs (more than 5 km - 3 miles) with an average grade up to 6%.
Tour Levels
Level 1 - 1.5
For those desiring gentle rides with a limited amount of climbing.
Level 5, also known as our Expeditions, are multi-week tours designed for strong riders looking for the challenge of riding across countries or continents.
Very hilly
Mountainous
Bicycling Secret Bavaria
Cycling Copenhagen to Hamburg
Cycling Hamburg to Berlin
