Romantic Route of Germany

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Welcome to Frankfurt, Germany – a dynamic city where tradition meets modernity, creating a unique blend that captivates every visitor. Known as the financial capital of Europe, Frankfurt is not just about skyscrapers and business hubs; it offers a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and culinary experiences that are sure to make your visit unforgettable. Start your journey in the heart of the city at the Römerberg, Frankfurt's historic square. Here, you can admire the traditional half-timbered houses and the iconic Römer, which has served as the city hall for over 600 years. Nearby, St. Bartholomew's Cathedral, with its towering Gothic architecture, offers a glimpse into the city's medieval past and provides a stunning view from its observation deck. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the River Main, where you can enjoy picturesque views and perhaps take a relaxing boat tour. For art and history enthusiasts, the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment) is a must-visit. This cluster of museums along the riverbank includes the renowned Städel Museum, showcasing masterpieces from seven centuries of European art, and the German Film Museum, which delves into the fascinating world of cinema. The Senckenberg Natural History Museum, with its impressive dinosaur exhibits, is perfect for families and science lovers alike. No trip to Frankfurt would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Head to the vibrant district of Sachsenhausen, known for its traditional apple wine taverns. Here, you can savor hearty dishes such as Frankfurter sausages, green sauce (Grüne Soße), and Handkäse mit Musik (a regional cheese specialty). Pair your meal with a glass of Apfelwein (apple wine) for an authentic taste of Frankfurt. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or a foodie, Frankfurt promises a rich and diverse experience that will leave you eager to return.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Würzburg is a city that is in Franconia in northern Bavaria, Germany. Founded in the 10th century, Würzburg served as the home of powerful prince-bishops for many centuries. It is renowned for the Residence, regarded as one of the finest palaces in Europe and a high point of Baroque art (also UNESCO cultural world heritage). Würzburg is also home to one of the oldest churches in Germany, built in the 8th century on top of a former pagan shrine. One of its most famous structures, Festung Marienberg, is a fortress which now surrounds the church Würzburg was the center of the kingdom known as Franconia. In the 19th century, Napoleon merged Franconia with Bavaria, by which the city is ruled to this day The most important sites to see in Würzburg are: • Fortress Marienberg: was long the seat of the bishop-prince. It was built, rather than to defend the city, to defend citizens. • Mainfranken Museum: with collections ranging from prehistory to the present. • The Old Bridge in Würzburg: it was built between 1473 and 1543 to replace the Romanesque Bridge, which had been destroyed by floods. • The Cathedral of St. Kilian: it is a very sober Romanesque style temple and was built between 1040 and 1225. The chapel Schönborn, an added side chapel by the bishops of the same name, is decorated with skulls and bones, both on the inside and the outside. • The Lusamgärtchen: is a small walled courtyard on the north side of the church of Neumünster. The tomb of minstrel Walther von der Vogelweide is located within the garden. There are several old, beautiful churches in town to visit and marvel at, cafes, shops and eating establishments to spend time in as well as taking in a guided tour of the city.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a town in the district of Ansbach of Mittelfranken (Middle Franconia), the Franconia region of Bavaria, Germany. It is well known for its well-preserved medieval old town, a destination for tourists from around the world. It is part of the popular Romantic Road through southern Germany.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Füssen is an enchanting town in Bavaria, Germany, known by the Hohes Schloss and its Basilica and former Benedictine monastery of St. Mang. The famous Neuschwanstein Castle is a few kilometres to the east. There are beautiful lakes with beautiful views and the "Kalvarienberg" which has the "Stations of the Cross" on it. The most important sites to see in Füssen are: • Schloss Neuschwanstein: the mother of all castles known throughout the world. • Hohenschwangau This castle was the home of Louis II, while he was growing up. • Wies: This pilgrimage church is one of the great masterpieces of Rococo world. Has been designated a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO. • Falkenstein: Another castle, this is a ruin, a short drive from Füssen, near Pfronten. • Via Claudia: Ancient Roman road from Donauwörth, in the Alps, to Venice. • Tegelberg: A ski resort, but in summer you can take the elevator to the top.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Munich, located at the river Isar in the south of Bavaria, is famous for its Word-class museums, beautiful parks, the annual Oktoberfest beer celebration and architecture. The beautiful public buildings and monuments are testaments to the imperial aspirations of the Wittelsbach family, rulers of Bavaria from the 12th to the 20th century. Although it was heavily damaged by allied bombing during World War II, many of its historic buildings have been rebuilt and the city center appears mostly as it did in the late 1800s including its largest church, the Frauenkirche, and the famous city hall (Neues Rathaus). An odd mix of proud traditionalism and avant-garde culture will keep you interested and active and the town does stay up until all hours, with its many students and earthly Bavarian joie de vivre.