Six days in Bavaria with a rental car, driving a loop from Munich to Strasbourg and back again. Looking for advice and inspiration on things we might do or shouldn’t miss.

Exploring Bavaria and Beyond: A Six-Day Road Trip from Munich to Strasbourg and Back

Planning a European adventure can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, especially when trying to optimize your time across diverse regions. If you’re embarking on a six-day journey through Bavaria with a rental car, looping from Munich to Strasbourg and back, this guide aims to inspire your itinerary and highlight some must-see destinations along the route. Whether you’re seeking scenic drives, charming towns, historical landmarks, or outdoor activities, here’s a curated overview to enhance your trip.

Itinerary Overview

Your adventure begins and ends in Munich, progressing in a clockwise direction. From the Bavarian capital, you’ll head south hugging the Alps—possibly venturing into mountainous areas—then traverse westward along the Alpine foothills towards Strasbourg and Colmar, before returning via Stuttgart to Munich. Keep in mind, weather conditions may influence your plans; rainy days are perfect for scenic drives and exploring indoor attractions.

Maximizing Your Experience

Given your interest in avoiding overly touristy spots while still enjoying cultural and scenic highlights, here’s a tailored approach:

1. Alpine Regions and Mountain Escapes
   Start your journey by exploring the southern regions close to the Alps. Consider visiting some less crowded mountain towns like Garmisch-Partenkirchen or Oberammergau, offering beautiful architecture, local crafts, and stunning alpine vistas. If you’re up for a gentle hike, the Partnach Gorge near Garmisch provides accessible natural beauty with impressive waterfalls and rock formations.

2. Quaint Towns and Unique Castles
   On your way westward, seek out picturesque towns such as Füssen, home to the renowned Neuschwanstein Castle—though crowds can be substantial, viewing this fairy-tale fortress from a distance or at quieter times can be worthwhile. For other castles beyond Neuschwanstein, explore smaller but equally captivating sites like Hohenzollern Castle (in neighboring Baden-Württemberg) or Castle Hohenbaden (in Baden-Baden). These often attract fewer visitors and offer stunning panoramic views.

3. Waterfalls and Natural Wonders
   If waterfalls interest you, consider visiting the Triberg Waterfalls in the Black Forest, located along your route towards Strasbourg. These falls are among Germany’s highest and provide lovely hiking opportunities amidst lush scenery.

4. Charming Towns and Cultural Highlights
   Further north, beyond Strasbourg and Colmar, discover towns like Freiburg im Breisgau with its historic old town, or the Alsace region’s quintessential villages such as Riquewihr