At the beginning of sunny August, the Rentalmoose team visited Berlin to celebrate the launch of rentalmoose.com. Naturally, The Moose came with us.
Whilst the team was working hard and applying final tweaks to the online platform, The Moose enjoyed a sightseeing trip around the fascinating city. He visited some of the city’s well-known tourist hotspots, as well as the under-the-radar locations mentioned in this Rentalmoose travel guide.
The Moose posing with street art on the Berlin Wall, located at the East Side Gallery.
Getting around the city by car was extremely convenient, especially considering Berlin’s size. We would go as far as to say that Berlin is one of the best cities to explore by car in this part of Europe. Parking is widely available practically anywhere, and we haven’t been stuck in a traffic jam during the entire weekend.
We’ve had no trouble finding on-street parking right by the famous Berlin Wall at East Side Gallery, empty spots practically in front of the Brandenburg Gate, as well as spaces right next to busy restaurants and bars along Kurfuerstendamm.
In addition, The Moose used an electric scooter to cover short distances.
The Moose at Victory Column.
Rentalmoose visited some of the spots mentioned in the Discover Central Europe travel guide. He tried what could be the world’s best Gemüsekebap at Mustafa’s, attempted to enter the legendary Berghain nightclub, and admired the world’s finest automobiles at Classic Remise.
On top of all this, he also spent time strolling the streets of Kreuzberg and photographing some of the city’s best murals and street art. Berlin is a truly diverse city with an exciting underground culture waiting to be discovered. The mild heat in the middle of the summer made exploring the city even more pleasant.
Rentalmoose’s charming style and magnetic appeal attracted both tourists and locals. The Moose ended up making new friends all over the city. As photo opportunities kept popping up across town, Rentalmoose was busy interacting with the joyful people of Berlin.
After two days out exploring Berlin, the Rentalmoose reunited with the rest of the team to celebrate as the website went live. Months of prepping and hard work paid off, though there is still a lot of exciting stuff about to be unveiled in the coming months.
880 kilometers (550 miles) in total + returns to Munich
Tags: Travel guide, Day Trips, Germany, Short Distance
Bavaria is considered one of the best places to visit in Europe. Visit fairytale castles, Nazi-hideaway-turned-restaurants, medieval towns and a lot more on the best day trips from Munich.
This travel guide takes you on short day trips from Munich. Alternatively, you can change the itinerary into a single road trip between each milestone. Rentalmoose recommends adding a few days to explore The Black Forest, you won’t regret it!
Planning- Before You Leave
Before setting off on the best day trips from Munich, take a look at some essential information listed below.
When is the best time to visit Southern Germany?
Enjoy the hottest weather when you visit during the Summer. Keep in mind, however, that the tourist season peaks in the heart of Summer (July through August). During that time, some attractions might get overcrowded. If you go during the “shoulder season” before or after the Summer, you may be able to catch the best weather without the hordes of tourists.
Trip Extensions
Munich is only a few hours away from the picturesque Black Forest, one of the most underrated travel destinations within Germany. Extend your trip and drive through the scenic Black Forest High Road, wander around the ruins of a monastery and observe the tallest waterfall in the country, before heading off to Switzerland. Click here for the guide.
You can also head south into the Swiss Alps and explore the glorious mountains, drive up to the top of Europe or ski in the world’s most prestigious resorts. Check out the Swiss Alps Travel guide and plan your ideal road trip.
Why should I book a rental car in Germany?
Germany, especially the southern part of the country, is absolutely perfect to be discovered via a rental car. The toll-free German highway network (Autobahn) is very well-developed and maintained. What’s more, spectacular roadside views are guaranteed around Neuschwanstein, Salzburg and the Eagle’s Nest.
Germany and Austria are both members of the open-borer Schengen zone, therefore border crossing is quick and hassle-free. When driving in Austria, you are required to have a highway vignette. The routes suggested in this guide avoid highways in Austria. In this case, a vignette is not necessary.
For extra peace of mind during your road trip, Rentalmoose recommends adding excess coverage when booking your rental car. Once you’ve picked up the car, don’t forget to take photos of the car to qualify for a 50% discount from the excess coverage fee.
Can tourists drive in Germany?
Absolutely! Tourists above the age of 18 can freely drive using a foreign driver’s license for up to 6 months, without the need for an International Driving Permit.
When driving on the German Autobahn, remember to stick to the right lane unless overtaking. Some segments of the Autobahn have no speed limits, it is especially crucial not to block the overtaking lanes on unrestricted segments.
Speed limits are enforced quite strictly in Germany. You may come across well-hidden radars, especially in urban zones. Pay attention to road signs at all times and stay within the limit.
If you do happen to get a speeding ticket, you will be pleased to hear that the fines are rather low.
Getting caught at 11-15km/h (6.8-9.3 MPH) above the limit outside of urban zones will result in a 40 Euro ticket.
Germany, as well as Austria, have right-hand side traffic.
Now that you’re all set, let’s dive into the best day trips in Munich!
Munich
Photography by Ian Kelsall.
This adventure begins in one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. The picturesque city is loved by tourists for its medieval architecture, rich history, plentiful cultural venues, and various outdoor activities. Football fans are in for a treat, as Munich is home to FC Bayern.
This city will serve as the base for your day trips from Munich. Make sure you explore the fascinating city first, before setting off on Munich day trips.
For maximum convenience, Rentalmoose recommends picking up your rental car directly from Munich Airport, Munich Hauptbahnhof Train Station, or the central bus station. Browse through rental companies that support airport pick-up via Rentalmoose.
Don’t forget to take check-in photos using the Rentalmoose app once you’ve picked up your rental car to qualify for a 50% rebate from the excess coverage fee.
Is Munich worth visiting?
Absolutely! Munich is a fascinating historic city that is filled with attractions for history lovers, art aficionados, foodies, photographers and shoppers of all kinds. Also, don’t forget the region’s football culture and intense matches that take place at the world-class Allianz Arena.
When in Munich, you can’t skip a visit to the Marienplatz, a historic square that has been the heart of the city since the 1100s. Admire the golden statue of the Virgin Mary in the middle of the square or grab a coffee at one of the local cafes. Stroll around the area and feel the real medieval vibe.
Foodies should definitely head to the Viktualienmarkt just a walk away from the main square. The former farmer’s market has been around for hundreds of years and has all sorts of deliciousness in store for you, ranging from local Bavarian specialties to exotic fruit.
The market operates between Monday and Saturday from 10 AM onwards. Closed on Sundays.
When visiting Marienplatz and its surroundings, it’s best to drop off your rental car at one of the spacious multi-story car parks located just a short walk away from the heart of the city.
Rates vary between 2 and 6 Euros per hour.
Wandering around the glamorous Munich Residence, the stunning structure was originally built in the 1380s. The vast majority of the residence was destroyed during the Second World War, though it has been carefully reconstructed in the 1980s.
Today, the complex consists of 130 charming rooms and 10 colorful courtyards. Admission costs below 10 EUR per person, tickets can only be purchased by cash or credit card upon entrance.
Oktoberfest
If you’re visiting Munich in the second half of September, be sure to drop by the famous Oktoberfest. The festival is filled with countless food stalls, theme park rides, local souvenir shops, parties, and parades.
Of course, the highlight is beer which is available all over the place. Check for details on the official website.
Experience Bavarian cuisine and hospitality at the Hofbrauehaus. The famous beer hall has been welcoming guests since the late 1500s and is the favorite go-to tavern among locals as well as tourists.
Guests can choose from a variety of local Bavarian dishes and beverages (including non-alcoholic beers).
Rentalmoose order tip:Be sure to try the favorites, such as Pretzels and Wiener Schnitzels.
What are the best hotels in Munich?
Luxury travelers should consider checking into the Mandarin Oriental Munich. The elegant 5-star hotel in the heart of Munich’s Old Town features prestigious rooms and suites, as well as luxurious amenities such as a spa and wellness center and a fine-dining restaurant that offers a mix of exceptional Japanese and Peruvian cuisine.
In the summer, guests can relax at the terrace that offers panoramic views of the area.
Traveling on a tighter budget? The Achat Hotel Muenchen Sued might be the perfect choice for you. The 4-star hotel offers modern, well-equipped rooms as well as a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar, all at an affordable price tag. A private car park is available for hotel guests.
Once you’ve spent enough time in the city, begin your Munich day trips.
The Neuschwanstein Castle is a magical structure located less than 2 hours away from the city, making it the perfect destination for a day trip from Munich.
Why is Neuschwanstein Castle famous?
The fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most famous castles in the entire world, commissioned by King Ludwig II in the 19th century.
King Ludwig II was known for fairytale-like buildings, and the Neuschwanstein Castle remains the most famous structure commissioned by him. The king was meant to live in the castle, but he ended up dying before getting the chance to move in.
The magical Neuschwanstein Castle has been a symbol of Germany ever since. It even inspired Walt Disney’s fairytale castle found in Disneyland parks.
Admire the castle and its scenic surroundings from the nearby viewpoint, or head to the Skywalk to observe the view from a different perspective.
Afterward, head to the ticket center in the Hohenschwangau village near the castle, as it is the only place to purchase tickets to the Neuschwanstein Castle.
The admission to Neuschwanstein Castle costs below 15 Euros per person, children younger than 18 can enter free of charge. Walk through the castle’s monumental rooms and decorative chambers.
After a visit to the castle itself, travelers can hike across the monumental mountains surrounding the castle. Hike along the allgaeu hiking trails. Be sure to bring your camera with you, as there will be plenty of scenic viewpoints along the way!
If you’re lucky, you might spot some of the local wildlife too.
After a day of exploration at the Neuschwanstein castle, make your way over to the Austrian border and the picturesque city of Salzburg. The famed city is known for being the birthplace of Mozart, and plenty of attractions in town pay homage to the great composer.
The drive from Munich to Salzburg takes less than 2 hours one way, consider taking the A94 and then the B20, it will cost you just around 10 more minutes but you will avoid Austrian highway tolls (vignette).
The best place to begin your Salzburg exploration is the Old Town, one of the largest UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites on the planet and one of the best-preserved historic districts in this part of Europe.
Stroll around the busy streets, admire the magnificent baroque and medieval architecture or step inside one of the local cafes for a refreshing coffee.
The Old Town (Altstadt in German) is the perfect spot to satisfy your shopping needs, too. Head to Getreidegasse, where the picturesque street is lined with stores selling anything from souvenirs and antiques to high-end clothing and jewelry. The area is filled with eateries and cafes, don’t hesitate to visit some of them for a slice of freshly-baked cake or an aromatic tea.
Parking around Salzburg’s Old Town can be stressful, especially during the weekends when the area gets extremely busy. Rentalmoose recommends dropping off your rental car at this Contipark car park, just a short walk from the heart of town. Most of the city’s best attractions are located within the Altstadt, it’s best to leave your car at the car park and continue exploring on foot.
Stroll around the vibrant Old Town until you reach Mozart’s Residence situated on the Makartplatz. The residence was reconstructed after it had been completely destroyed during World War 2.
Today, Mozart’s Residence is a museum filled with the great composer’s memorabilia, as well as a variety of facts about the artist’s family life and the house itself. A visit is an absolute must, not just for Mozart fans.
Open daily between 9 AM and 5:30 PM.
The Eagle’s Nest
The Eagle’s Nest photographed by John H.
As your day trip from Munich comes to an end, make a slight detour and visit one of the most unique attractions in the region, located in Germany right next to the Austrian border.
The Eagle’s Nest was constructed as a mountain hideaway during the Third Reich era. The eerie structure has since been turned into a unique restaurant atop the mountain. Indulge in regional German cuisine while admiring breathtaking views of the Alps, or enjoy the cool breeze at the outside terrace.
History fans can book a guided tour around parts of the former Nazi hideaway that are off-limits to restaurant guests.
The Eagle’s Nest strategic location makes it impossible to reach by car. Travelers can either hike up to the building (roughly 2 hours one way) or leave their cars at the Documentation Center car park and take the bus up to the end of the road. From there, walk through an eerie tunnel and take the elevator up to the top.
Private cars can’t go further than the Documentation Center. What’s more, the Eagle’s Nest is seasonal and remains closed in winter.
Did you know that one of the oldest cities in all of Bavaria lies just 2 hours north of Munich? The city’s historical significance dates over 900 years back. It’s a perfect destination for a day trip from Munich.
Is Nuremberg worth visiting?
Most definitely! The charming medieval city was bombed during World War II and has been carefully reconstructed. Today, it looks better than ever. The historic streets are absolutely perfect to get lost in.
Begin by exploring the heart of the city’s historic district. Drop off your rental car at the Hauptmarkt car park (current rates on the website) and explore the area on foot. Get a photo by the Weinstadel (photographed above), a medieval wine warehouse.
Admire the structure’s facade and wander around the area, as the warehouse itself is not open for public viewing.
For a panoramic view of the heart of Nuremberg, walk to the Kaiserburg Castle in the northern part of the Old Town. Apart from stunning views of the area, the 11th-century castle has major historical significance.
The castle used to be one of the most important buildings of the Holy Roman Empire and remains one of the city’s landmarks. Photograph the exterior or step inside for a tour revealing the castle’s fascinating secrets. Current admission costs can be found here.
Bratwurst Roeslein
Foodies will find themselves in paradise in Bratwurst Roeslein, the world’s biggest sausage restaurant located in the heart of Nuremberg’s old town.
The eatery has been serving delicious sausages ever since it first opened in 1431 and remains one of the best spots to get a taste of real Franconian cuisine, both traditional and with a modern twist.
Open daily between noon and 8 PM.
Explore the less-comfortable, infamous part of German history at the Nazi Party Rally Grounds in the southeastern part of Nuremberg. The vast majority of the large complex can be explored by visitors, guests can also gather insight at the exhibition located inside the Documentation Center.
The Rally Grounds serve as a reminder of the horrendous part of German history during World War II.
Stuttgart is on the bucket list of many tourists as it can be considered the birthplace of the automobile. The city is home to the headquarters and factories of two German automotive tycoons: Mercedes Benz and Porsche. The city also offers a wide array of attractions beyond automobiles. The attractions make Stuttgart perfect for a day trip from Munich.
An absolute must-see in Stuttgart is the famous Mercedes Benz Museum. The museum consists of over 1500 exhibits covering 16 500 square meters in total. Learn about the automobile first invented by Carl Benz in 1886 and the invention’s fascinating journey to the modern era.
The engaging exhibits make the museum an exciting spot worth visiting, not just for die-hard petrolheads.
Continue your journey through automotive history when you visit The Porsche Museum. Although much smaller than the Mercedes Benz Museum, it is just as captivating.
Admire more than 80 iconic Porsche automobiles. Some date all the way back to the 1800s, whilst others are among the rarest in the world.
Porsche enthusiasts (or Porschephiles, if you will), can even book an unforgettable drive in a modern Porsche. Details available here.
Art enthusiasts can’t skip paying a visit to the Staatsgalerie. The gallery first opened in the 1840s and holds some of the best artwork in the entire country. Inside, guests can find temporary exhibitions as well as a permanent collection of pieces by artists such as Salvador Dali, Rembrandt, Picasso or Henri Matisse.
The museum in itself is worth mentioning as well, as the artworks are placed inside a monumental Neoclassical building with a Post-Modern extension added in the 1980s.
Passau is a cute historic city situated by three rivers, hence it’s often referred to as “The City of Three Rivers”. Located minutes from the Austrian border, Passau is another perfect day trip from Munich.
The charming town is famous for its architecture, which is a mix of gothic and baroque styles, as well as its stunning natural setting between mountains and on the banks of three rivers.
Drop off your rental car here and stroll around the historic part of town on foot.
Step inside the local Glass Museum, which hosts the world’s largest and most diverse collection of Bohemian glass. Admire the collection all week between 9 AM and 5 PM. Admission costs below 10 Euros per person as of 2020.
Continue wandering around the picturesque heart of Passau until you reach the Cathedral of St Stephen. The monumental baroque church is magnificent both inside and out.
Inside, among the decorative interior and historic artwork, guests can find the largest pipe organ in all of Europe and the second-largest in the world. The instrument is a spectacular sight, consisting of over 17 thousand pipes and is magical to see and hear.
Every day at noon (except Sundays), concerts take place at the cathedral. Consider arriving early to purchase tickets as they are sold on a first-come-first-serve basis, the ticketing booth opens around two hours prior to the concert.
Enjoy a regional lunch at the Wirsthaus Bayerischer Loewe, one of the best local eateries in Passau. The restaurant is located in the heart of the old town and serves delicious German dishes, such as various types of local sausages, Schweinshaxe, Schnitzel and more!
Open daily until midnight, including Sundays.
Once you’ve ticked off all the best day trips from Munich, it’s time head back. For maximum convenience, drop off your rental car directly at the Munich Airport right before leaving. Car rental companies that support airport drop-off can be found via Rentalmoose.
Don’t have a car you can take on day trips from Munich? No problem!
Don’t forget to book your rental car via Rentalmoose for your day trips from Munich. On our platform, you can find the top rental companies at the best price, along with tens of curated travel guides around the globe. Get your car from Rentalmoose!
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Post your pictures from your day trips from Munich online using #Rentalmoose! Our favorite ones will be featured in the upcoming blog posts.
Tags: Travel guide, Drop-off at another location, Germany, Schwarzwald
This travel guide takes you on a road trip starting in Strasbourg, France, going across the Black Forest region before finishing in Zurich, Switzerland. The scenic drive can be completed in less than 7 and a half hours and is divided into short segments roughly an hour each.
The recommended duration of this road trip is 2 days, with about 3 hours of driving per day.
Planning- Before You Leave
Before setting off to explore the Black Forest in Germany, take a look at some of the essential information listed below.
What is the Black Forest?
The Black Forest (Schwarzwald in German) is an incredible mountainous forest in Baden Württemberg in southwestern Germany. Schwarzwald is the setting of most Grimm Brothers tales and is famous for the Black Forest Cake, a local delicacy.
The Black Forest has various attractions waiting to be explored, from picturesque forests, mountains and waterfalls through to vineyards and cute historical villages with delightful local cuisine.
Best of all, this region isn’t ruined by over-tourism, so it’s the perfect place to discover an authentic part of Germany.
How did the Black Forest get its name?
The Black Forest got its name during the times of Ancient Rome. Romans referred to the forest as “Silva Nigra” (the Black Forest in Latin) because of its density and dark color, and the name remained ever since.
Where is the Black Forest in Germany?
Germany’s Black Forest, or Schwarzwald, is located in the south-west part of Germany, in the Baden Württemberg region. Some of the towns in and around the Black Forest include Baden-Baden, Offenburg, or Freiburg im Breisgau.
When is the best time to visit Germany?
The best time to visit the Black Forest is anytime in Spring (late March to June) and Autumn (September to November), as some of the mountain roads may not be accessible in Winter.
Baden-Baden, the B500 mountain road and Freiburg might get crowded on weekends, so go during the week when it’s much quieter.
Road Trip Extensions
Your trip doesn’t have to end in Zurich! The Black Forest is near two beautiful regions in Germany and Switzerland.
Explore the picturesque region of Bavaria, stroll around the vibrant city of Munich or dine at an old Nazi mountain summit base. Check out the Rentalmoose guide to Munich’s surrounding areas and plan your ideal trip!
Alternatively, you can continue south and discover the monumental Swiss Alps. Indulge in extreme sports in Switzerland‘s most luxurious resort, drive across exciting mountain passes or play a game of golf in Andermatt. Click here for the guide.
Why should I book a rental car in Germany?
Germany is ideal to be discovered by a rental car. The roads are very well-maintained and stunning views along the way are guaranteed. Many rental companies in Strasbourg support drop-off in a different location, browse through available options on Rentalmoose.
Germany, France and Switzerland are parts of the open-border Schengen Zone, which means crossing countries is quick and hassle-free.
Germany and France accept foreign driving licenses from most countries, however, if your license isn’t in English, German, French or Italian you are required to have an International Driving Permit when driving in Switzerland.
For extra peace of mind during your road trip, add the excess coverage provided by Rentalmoose when booking your rental car.
Once you’ve picked up the car, don’t forget to take photos of the car to qualify for a 50% discount from the excess coverage fee.
When driving on the German Autobahn, remember to stick to the right lane unless overtaking.Some segments of the Autobahn have no speed limits, it is especially crucial not to block the overtaking lanes on unrestricted segments.
Speed limits are enforced quite strictly in Germany. You may come across well-hidden radars, especially in urban zones. Pay attention to road signs at all times and stay within the limit.
If you do happen to get a speeding ticket, you will be pleased to hear that the fines are rather low. Getting caught at 11-15km/h (6.8-9.3 MPH) above the limit outside of urban zones will result in a 40 Euro ticket.
All 3 nations have right-hand side traffic.
Now that you’re all set, it’s time to begin your road trip and explore the Black Forest!
Strasbourg
Strasbourg’s old town.
Your Black Forest itinerary begins over in the French town of Strasbourg. Rentalmoose recommends picking up your rental car directly as you arrive at the airport.
Getting around town is very comfortable by car, as there isn’t heavy traffic, so feel free to explore the city before continuing on to Germany.
What to do in Strasbourg?
Notre Dame Cathedral
A must-see is the famous old town, where you will find the monumental Notre Dame Cathedral. You can go inside, visit the beautiful astronomical clock and admire the views from the viewing point for 2 and 4.6 Euros respectively.
Head over to Le Gruber (click for directions), one of the best restaurants in Strasbourg, where you can try some local specialties such as tarte flambée.
Rentalmoose order tip: Be sure to try Tarte Flambee when in Strasbourg. This traditional pizza-like flatbread is a regional specialty.
Batorama Boat Tours
Afterward, take a short walk to the pier and take one of the sightseeing boat tours through the city. Cruises are operated multiple times a day by Batorama, with tickets starting at 13.5 Euros per person.
Marche de L’Esplanade
If you happen to be in Strasbourg on a Tuesday or Saturday morning, visit Marché de l’Esplanade, a traditional French market with various local vendors and producers.
Cross the Rhine river into Germany and continue past Offenburg towards the fairytale-like town of Gengenbach. Don’t be fooled by the size of this town, its history dates back to the 13th century despite having just 11000 inhabitants!
Drive towards the center and continue to explore it on foot, there are a couple of car parks along Friedrichstrasse.
Why should you visit Gegenbach?
The biggest surprise in Gengenbach is the absence of any tourists, this town is a true hidden gem! Stroll around and admire the historical architecture, step inside any of the local cafes for a slice of Black Forest Cake, after all this is what the Black Forest is famous for.
Gegenbach Wine Festival
If you are planning to visit Gengenbach in Autumn, you can attend the annual wine festival, which takes place on the third weekend of September every year.
After a 40 minute drive on the Autobahn, you will arrive in Baden-Baden, one of the best-known spa towns in the entire world. There are plenty of things to do in Baden-Baden, such as a relaxing session in a thermal bath or shopping in the old town.
What should I see in Baden-Baden?
Lichtentaler Allee
You can begin by exploring Lichtentaler Allee, a lovely park in the heart of the city. The park is over 2 kilometers long, making it perfect for a relaxing stroll.
There is a multi-story car park conveniently located inside a shopping gallery just across the south end of the park (click for directions).
The Old Town
Continue walking south until you reach the famousBaden-Baden Casino, then turn east and you will find vivid old town streets full of colorful restaurants, cafes and all kinds of stores to satisfy your shopping needs.
Caracalla Spa
If you wish to relax during your stay in Baden-Baden, why not try what the city is known for? Pay a visit to Caracalla Spa, a spa and wellness center offering thermal pools and plenty of different treatments.
Ticket prices start at 15 Euros for 90 minutes in the Spa area. Caracalla Spa is open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM.
The Black Forest High Road- one of the best drives in Europe
This part of the road trip begins as soon as you set off from Baden-Baden. Leave the city and follow the B500 up into the mountains.
You will drive along the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse (The Black Forest High Road), one of the best driving roads in all of Europe. This mountain pass goes through the middle of the Black Forest and is very popular among motorcyclists and car enthusiasts.
Be sure to fill up your tank before leaving Baden-Baden, as there aren’t many gas stations later on.
How to find the Allerheiligen Waterfalls?
You can stop at one of the numerous viewpoints along the way to enjoy the panoramic views from above, before arriving at Allerheiligen Waterfalls (All Saints Waterfalls).
You can choose to explore the waterfalls starting at the bottom and hiking along the trail up the mountain, or starting directly at the top near the monastery ruins.
There is a large car park along the B500 near the bottom of the waterfalls (how to find it).
You will see the first waterfall after a couple of minutes of walking, the entire trail is rather steep and lengthy so be prepared to hike for a bit if you want to see all of the waterfalls.
Allerheiligen Monastery Ruins
At the end of the trail (1.3 km length), there are ruins of the Allerheiligen Monastery. You can regain energy at All Saints Abbey, a restaurant next to the Monastery ruins.
The top of the waterfalls, along with All Saints Monastery ruins, can also be accessed by car. Simply park at the spacious Allerheiligen Oberer car park (how to find it).
Triberg Waterfalls seen from the bottom of the trail.
Follow the hairpins along the B500, B28, and B33 for another 90 minutes until you reach the town of Triberg. Access to Triberg Waterfalls is not free of charge, unlike the Allerheiligen.
You can park at Scheffelplatz, where you will need to purchase admission tickets. Entry costs 5 Euros per person but it is definitely worth it.
Triberg- the highest waterfall in Germany
The spectacular waterfall is over 160 meters tall, making it the highest in the country. The water is illuminated until 10 pm daily, it is a truly spectacular sight even after nightfall.
You can head into the village of Triberg for a snack or another slice of the delicious Black Forest Cake, just minutes away from the car park.
The Hexenloch Mill is a favorite lunch spot among bikers and car enthusiasts passing through the Black Forest High Road.
What is the Hexenloch Mill?
The Hexenloch Mill (Hexenlochmühle) is yet another hidden gem you should visit in the Black Forest. The structure was built in the early 1800s and is currently the go-to food spot in the region.
This atmospheric restaurant loved by locals and tourists, it offers authentic, mouth-watering dishes. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor tables and enjoy some German specialties like sausages (Bratwurst) or a pork Schnitzel.
Rentalmoose order tip: In Germany, you can’t go wrong with a fresh Bratwurst (German Sausage) or a juicy Schnitzel (porkchop).
There is also a gift shop inside where you can stock up on souvenirs after your meal.
Freiburg’s reconstructed old town. Photography by Couleur from Pixabay.
Follow the final stretch of the B500 and continue along beautiful vineyards until you reach the city of Freiburg im Breisgau. Drive into the city center and park at the Karlsbau. Just a few steps away, you will find the impressive Freiburg Minster (click for directions).
The Freiburg Minster
The Freiburg Minster is 116 meters tall, so it is impossible to miss. View the immense facade or take a peek inside, where you can climb up to a viewing point atop the tower and get the best views of the city.
The cathedral stands in the middle of the glamorous Münsterplatz square, which is another spot worth a visit while in Freiburg.
The Old Town
Freiburg im Breisgau’s old town has been carefully reconstructed after the Second World War which had left it in tragic shape, however, this is certainly not the case anymore. Walking through the heart of Freiburg will make you feel as if you’ve traveled back to Medieval times, thanks to many historical monuments and cobblestone roads.
The Local Market
You can also attend the local market that trades in the city centre every morning except Sundays. Go to one of the butchers and try Black Forest Ham, another specialty from this region of Germany.
Where to stay in Freiburg im Breisgau?
In order to feel the medieval vibe, Rentalmoose recommends spending the night at the Oberkirch Hotel, situated right at the foot of the Minster. Perfect location and historical decor make this my favorite hotel in Freiburg. The rooms start at 89 Euros per night.
A cheaper alternative would be the Ibis Budget Hotel around 5km away from the city center, where rooms start at 40 Euros per night. [Click to check availability]
Basel’s iconic historical district with the Rhine in the foreground. Photography by Skeeze from Pixabay.
The route from Freiburg to Basel is nowhere near as exciting as the B500, though it is also unique for tourists from other countries. Drive onto the A5 Autobahn and continue south.
German highways (Autobahn) are famous around the world for their unrestricted segments. About 70% of the German Autobahn network has no speed limit.
That’s right, as soon as you pass this sign you are allowed to drive as fast as you want. The best part of it all? All Autobahns in Germany are completely free of charge. Keep in mind to stay in the right lane, as the left lane is reserved strictly for overtaking.
Don’t forget that unrestricted highways only exist in Germany, in Switzerland the motorway speed limit is 120km/h. Furthermore, Switzerland is known for very strict penalties for speeding and improper parking so be extra careful not to pass the limit.
Drivers in Switzerland can be fined for going just 1km/h over the speed limit!
Speeding is dangerous as on the highways there are unmarked police cars trying to catch speeders. During the night I was driving around 20 km/h over the limit and police was behind me in a regular looking BMW.
After following me for some time they pulled me over and asked questions. As the penalty policy depends how much you earn I told I was a student and had no income. I got minimum 2500 franks and they didn’t let me go till I paid them directly.
Swiss police is strict and they don’t send you penalties home anymore, on-the-spot payment is required.
Please note: In Switzerland, a highway vignette is required in order to drive on motorways. An annual vignette costs 40 Swiss Francs and can be purchased directly at the border. Drivers caught without a vignette could get fined 200 Francs. Read more about the highway vignettes in Switzerland here.
What is the first place you should visit in Basel?
Kunstmuseum
The Basel Kunstmuseum hosts the largest collection of art in the country, including pieces by Van Gogh, Monet, Rembrandt or Picasso. Admission tickets cost 25 Euros and can be bought online or directly at the entrance [museum website].
Why should you visit Basel’s old town?
Basel’s old town has many historical buildings dating all the way back to the 14th century. Explore the area on foot, your rental car can be parked nearby [click for directions].
Muensterplatz
Both banks of the Rhine river are worth seeing, as well as the iconic Münsterplatz square with the enormous medieval church in the heart of it [click for directions].
The Minster can be admired from the inside as well, entrance costs 5 Euros per person and offers panoramic views from the top of the structure.
Basel Zoo
For a family-friendly experience, head over to the Basel Zoo. The attraction’s modern approach to enclosures, as well as over 600 different animals, make this a fun, memorable experience in Switzerland’s best and most diverse zoo.
More information can be found on the Zoo’s official website.
Day tickets to the Basel Zoo start at 21 Swiss Francs for adults.
Pretty streets in the heart of Zurich mark the perfect end of this trip. Photographed by Jörg Vieli from Pixabay
The final leg of the journey will take you to one of Switzerland’s most iconic cities; Zurich. Take the A3 motorway directly from Basel to Zurich, you should arrive in just a little over an hour.
What is the best place to eat in Zurich?
Zeughauskeller
Indulge yourself in the local cuisine at one of Zurich’s top restaurants. I recommend trying out Zeughauskeller in the heart of the city, where you will find specialties such as Rösti or Kanonenputzer.
You can park your car here, within walking distance of Zeughauskeller.
What to do in Zurich?
FIFA World Football Museum
Football fans will find themselves at home at the FIFA World Football Museum, open between 10AM to 6PM Tuesday-Sunday. Directions can be found here.
Lake Zurich Cruise
Another interesting experience is going on a cruise on Lake Zurich. Cruises and boat tours depart near the city center, more information on timetables and pricing can be found here.
Zurich is packed for attractions and points of interest to keep you busy for days! Check out more of our favorites in this blog post, and extend your trip further into the Swiss Alps.
Drop off your rental car directly at the Zurich airport before leaving, car hire options that support drop-off at a different location can be found on Rentalmoose.
Don’t have a car you can take to the Black Forest? No problem!
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