The big surprise, the great unknown destination in Germany is undoubtedly Frankfurt. Travellers are drawn to the skyscrapers, sausages and art in this European city, distinguished by both its powerful modernity and its deep cultural identity. Be captivated and discover this place of contagious energy, and much more, on the route through Germany by car that we propose today.
Germany by car: 'Mainhattan
Pick up your vehicle punctually at Frankfurt airport, 15 minutes from downtown. This metropolis, dotted with the tallest buildings in Europe, has earned the nickname 'Mainhattan' among locals. Not only because of these endless vertical buildings but also because of its river, the Main, and for being the financial capital of the country and of the Old Continent. But every coin has two sides: 'Bankfurt' is one. The other is the old town, which takes us directly to the Middle Ages.
After this introduction, let's start our tour of west-central Germany by car.
A historic center that continues to pulsate
Ravaged during World War II, the historic center was reborn from the ashes. The oldest part of Frankfurt, whose vibrant life revolves around the Römerberg square, is one of the most beautiful in Germany.
There we will find the classic 15th century half-timbered houses, which contrast with the pre-Gothic church of San Nicholas. A visit to the baroque Katharinenkirche, where Goethe, the great German playwright, poet and novelist of universal fame, was baptized, is a must on our trip through Germany by car. A few meters away is the cathedral of St. Bartholomew: from its tower you will enjoy breathtaking views of the city. And a little further north, the majestic opera house will completely fascinate you.
Skyscrapers, museums and cider
To the east is the German 'City', with incredible skyscrapers that are a source of great local pride, some created by architects such as the elegant and technologically advanced Norman Foster. The Eurotower (headquarters of the European Central Bank) and the Maintower, 200 meters high and with a spectacular viewpoint, are absolutely unmissable on this route through Germany by car. Cross the river and head to the Museum Embankment, where the most important museums are lined up. There are two that you should visit, as they are two real gems: the Cinema and the Städel, with works by Dürer, Bosch, Rembrandt and Degas. A few steps away we arrive at Sachsenhausen, a cozy residential neighborhood where small trendy stores are interspersed with bars and taverns. Surprise: here the star liquid is not beer, but 'Apfelwein' - cider, Frankfurt's most genuine craft tradition. Accompany this wonderful drink with some good sausages with green sauce.
Germany by car: a cocktail of history, nature and fun
After a few intense days in the big city, we continue our journey through Germany by car to discover charming places that are not so well marked on the maps.
Mainz
An obligatory stop on this route through Germany by car is Mainz, the town that saw the birth of modern printing in the West (15th century). About 50 minutes from Frankfurt and overlooking the Rhine River, it is a very walkable town. The Gutenberg Museum, where the first two bibles printed by the illustrious inventor await in a protected room, is absolutely worth a visit. Visit the Gothic church of St. Stephen, whose main attraction is the magnificent stained-glass windows by Marc Chagall, and then lose yourself in its imposing thousand-year-old cathedral. Nearby are the Kirchgarten houses, as old as they are picturesque. Finish off the day with delicious tapas and local white wines by the river: an unforgettable moment.
Heidelberg
The next destination on this driving tour of Germany is Heidelberg, about an hour south of Frankfurt. This town, with its beautiful cobblestone streets, is home to the oldest university in the country, founded in 1386. We recommend descending into the underground cells of the institution, where, between 1778 and 1914, bad students were imprisoned (note the graffiti). The academic environment is mixed with a constant bustle of bicycles and trips to the beautiful natural surroundings of the town. A visit to the solemn legendary castle overlooking the meandering Neckar River is a must.
Cross it and head into the old town, which is buzzing with fun and traditional beer steins.
We hope you enjoy yourself very much on this route through Germany by car that we have prepared for you. Be sure to check our many offers and travel the country in the most comfortable and safe way.
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