Germany Road Trip: Exploring Stuttgart & Trier's Roman Legacy

From the Alps to the Autobahn: A German Road Trip Begins

Our Western European road trip led us from the breathtaking Italian Dolomites into the heart of Germany. After marveling at the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, our journey continued to explore some of Germany's most captivating cities, starting with the birthplace of the automobile: Stuttgart.

Stuttgart: Gardens, Zoos, and Automotive History

A Green Oasis in the City Center

Our Stuttgart exploration began in the Upper Schloss Garten, a tranquil green space adjacent to the bustling Schlossplatz. This central square, surrounded by stunning architecture, provided a perfect starting point for our day. The unique layout of Stuttgart, with parks cutting through the city, made for a peaceful and scenic walk.

Continuing through the Lower Schloss Garten, we admired the beautiful Natural History Museum before heading to our next destination: Wilhelma.

Wilhelma: A World-Class Zoo and Botanical Garden

Wilhelma is more than just a zoo and botanical garden; it's an immersive experience. The sheer size and diversity of the animal collection, coupled with the meticulously maintained botanical exhibits, make it a must-see. We spent three hours exploring but barely scratched the surface. And of course, no trip to Germany is complete without indulging in some authentic German sausages, which we happily enjoyed at Wilhelma.

Mercedes-Benz Museum: A Journey Through Automotive History

Our Stuttgart adventure culminated at the Mercedes-Benz Museum. This architectural marvel houses a collection of over 1,500 vehicles, showcasing not just automotive innovation but also providing a fascinating glimpse into Germany's history over the past century.

Trier: Unearthing Roman Treasures

Porta Nigra: A Gateway to the Past

Our next stop was Trier, Germany's oldest city, home to remarkably preserved Roman ruins. The centerpiece of Trier is the Porta Nigra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest preserved Roman gateway in the world. Climbing to the top of the gate offered breathtaking views of the city and a palpable sense of history.

Trier's Roman heritage is evident throughout the city, with ruins scattered amidst the charming, classic German architecture. After exploring the Porta Nigra, we enjoyed another round of delicious German sausages, a perfect complement to the historical atmosphere.

Luxembourg: A Glimpse Across the Border

Our German leg of the road trip concluded near the Luxembourg border, where we set up camp in the picturesque village of Vianden. The transition across the border was marked by a shift to French, highlighting the multilingual nature of the region. Vianden, with its iconic castle perched atop a hill, promised more exciting adventures to come.

Continuing the Adventure

Our German adventure was just a part of a larger European road trip. From the French countryside to the Swiss Alps and the Italian wonders of Lake Como, Milan, Venice, and the Dolomites, our journey was filled with unforgettable experiences. Stay tuned for more exciting adventures!