The appeal of the open road is a prominent part of German culture. Some of the best drives include these:
- The Romantic Road: This well-traveled route, which stretches between the Main River and the beginning of the Bavarian Alps, is dotted with lovely medieval towns.
- The Fairy-Tale Road: The colorful characters of the Brothers Grimm live again along this 595km (370-mile) stretch, beginning in the little town of Hanau and stretching all the way north to Bremen. This is one of the great motor trips of Germany for those who thrilled to those nursery-room favorites.
- Alpine Road: Scenic majesty and architectural charm combine for an unforgettable experience on this 480km (300-mile) road through the foothills of the Bavarian Alps.
- Upper Black Forest: Fairy tales always seem more believable when you're in the Black Forest, and the twisting secondary roads that connect Freiburg with Lake Titisee pass through lots of charming scenery and architecture.
- Mosel Valley: The road along this Rhine tributary passes by some of the country's most famous vineyards. At least a half-dozen of the cities en route are worth visiting as well.
