Nestled in a valley crowned by plump vineyards, Würzburg lures visitors with elegant architecture, subtle art and intimate scenes. Despite its harsh name (but then again, doesn’t every German word sound harsh to the uninitiated ear?), this Bavarian city is part of Germany’s famous Romantic Road and a great start for our south-west Germany road trip.

On arrival, roll your campervan through Würzburg to take in the opulent architecture of its Rococo palaces and Baroque mansions. Make a must-stop at Würzburg Residence, the ultimate statement in Rococo, then head for Alte Mainbrücke to count its 12 statues. Uphill, Marienburg Fortress invites you to hike up for lovely panoramic views.

Although a bit further from the city centre, the Botanic Garden in Würzburg has lush flora and free entry, which makes it worth a visit. As the day draws to a close, catch the sunset on the Forest Wine Trail and, with your campervan neatly parked, enjoy a glass of delicate wine. Didn’t we tell you? Würzburg is Germany’s wine capital.

Heidelberg is one of Germany’s most beautiful cities, attracting visitors with magnetic charm. From the shadow of the Black Forest, it weaves a tapestry of provocatively diverse romantic sights, cultural attractions and outdoor activities, earning a well‑deserved spot on this south‑west Germany road‑trip itinerary.

Begin your exploration of Heidelberg on a vibrant note by diving into the upbeat student scene. Or, soak up a more poetic pace by following in the footsteps of Goethe and William Turner along the Philosophenweg, the path that inspired and soothed them.

Next, park your campervan and explore the Altstadt for a feast of Gothic and Baroque architecture with a side of hearty German food specialities. Save the best for last with a visit to Schloss Heidelberg as you bid the city farewell.

On your way to the next destination on your south‑west Germany itinerary, make a quick stop in Mannheim for more stunning castles and cultural treats.

Sitting at the confluence of the rivers Rhine and Moselle, Koblenz has a history of trade and military might. Today, the 2,000-year-old city is no longer about making war and has, instead, settled into relaxed landscapes and contemporary, trendy activities.

It's still a great starting point for exploring the beautiful Rhine Valley — definitely include a stop in Sankt Goar or Boppard on your way to Koblenz to round off this itinerary.

Once your south-west Germany road trip reaches Koblenz, park your campervan and head straight to Deutsche Eck, the point where the two rivers meet. Explore the past at the fortress-turned-palace Schloss Stolzenfels, then leap into the future at the strikingly modern Kulturbau Forum Confluentes, which houses an art centre and library.

Since all that going between the 'then' and the 'now' can be pretty exhausting, refuel with a delicious meal and then just enjoy the city on foot.

What’s better than finishing a week-long road trip with a soothing spa? Nothing, really — which is why this trip ends in Wiesbaden, the country’s oldest and most famous spa town.

Leave your campervan and head to Kaiser-Friedrich-Therme, where clothes and stress are two things you’ll happily part with. Since Wiesbaden promises a Spastravaganza, carry on the pampering at the Kurhaus, where you can also catch a performance.

After you’ve had your fill of the soaking rituals, switch to a different kind of water experience and take the Nerobergbahn, a funicular powered by water. Don’t skip the stroll to the top of the Neroberg — it’s supposed to be a real treat. If you’re craving more nature, head to Kurpark.

And, since Wiesbaden is great for shopping, go on a spree in the Fußgängerzone. Indulge and enjoy the last days of your south-west Germany road trip.