The Bertha Benz Memorial Route
The Bertha Benz Memorial Route is one of the most historically significant themed roads in Germany—and one of the most beautiful experiences you can have in a convertible. It follows the historic route that Bertha Benz took in 1888 during the world's first long-distance automobile trip. Today, it combines technical innovation with scenic diversity and cultural depth—an ideal convertible tour for connoisseurs, technology enthusiasts, and road trip fans.
The approximately 200-kilometer convertible route winds through the wine-rich Baden, passing historical cities and quaint countryside. It offers everything that makes a convertible journey unforgettable: winding side roads, noteworthy stops, and the perfect mix of culture, history, and nature. Whether for a relaxed weekend tour or as part of a larger convertible road trip—the Bertha Benz Memorial Route is made for open-top driving.
Route Guidance and Stages of the Bertha Benz Memorial Route
Stage 1: From Mannheim to Heidelberg
The starting point is in Mannheim, where Carl Benz invented the automobile and Bertha Benz set off on her pioneering journey. Here, a visit to the Technoseum or the Benz Memorial at the marketplace is worthwhile. The roads around the grid city are well-developed, making the first kilometers a pleasant convertible tour.
A highlight of this stage is Ladenburg. The old town with its half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and the Dr. Carl Benz Automobile Museum exudes historical charm. The route continues through gentle hilly landscapes to Schriesheim, which, with its vineyards, castle ruins, and wine taverns, is a real insider tip for a stop.
At the end of the first stage awaits Heidelberg—one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. The famous castle ruins, the old town, and the promenade along the Neckar provide perfect backdrops for a stylish stop. Especially in the evening hours, driving through Heidelberg in a convertible is a delight.
Stage 2: From Wiesloch to Bruchsal
The second stage begins in Wiesloch, where Bertha Benz once bought gasoline at a pharmacy—today a unique monument in automotive history. The surroundings are characterized by rural idyll and wide fields—perfect conditions for a peaceful, scenic convertible route.
A next highlight is Bruchsal with its baroque palace, which is one of the most impressive residences in the region. The roads around the city offer both relaxed country roads and well-developed side paths—ideal for a varied convertible trip.
A stop in Weingarten near Karlsruhe is also worthwhile. This small town shines with historical buildings and the proximity to the Kraichgau hillside landscape—scenic terrain for any convertible tour. From here, the route leads through small towns toward the Northern Black Forest.
Stage 3: From Pforzheim back to Mannheim
Pforzheim, also known as the "Gold City," marks the southernmost point of the Bertha Benz Memorial Route. In addition to the well-known jewelry and watch museums, the city offers a vibrant downtown with many stylish pause opportunities. The return journey through the northern Kraichgau goes over both winding and flat sections—a versatile stage on your convertible road trip.
On the way back, a stop in Schwetzingen is worthwhile, famous for its palace with a French garden and the adjoining park landscapes. Especially with the roof down, the avenues and palace streets reveal their full charm.
Just before the end of the route, Hockenheim invites you to visit—not only because of its proximity to the famous track, but also because of its historic old town. From there, it’s just a few minutes back to Mannheim, where the circle of this convertible route closes.
Tips for Your Convertible Tour on the Bertha Benz Memorial Route
For a relaxed trip, three days are advisable, allowing you not only to drive but also to explore and enjoy. Plan short daily stages to ensure time for breaks in the cities. Especially in Ladenburg, Heidelberg, and Bruchsal, the selection of nice cafés, museums, and walking paths is great. Avoid peak traffic times around Mannheim or Heidelberg—especially on weekends or holidays—to experience the open driving feel without traffic jams. If you remain flexible, you can incorporate many spontaneous stops—because the small towns along the route surprise with a lot of charm. In summer, the route is also popular with motorcyclists, so be mindful of defensive driving in narrow passages. For a particularly atmospheric experience, it’s advisable to travel in early autumn—when the vines are full, the light is golden, and the temperatures are pleasant for open driving.
Driving the Convertible on the Bertha Benz Memorial Route
This route is more than just a tribute to a pioneering achievement—it is an invitation to experience history on four wheels. Traveling by convertible on the Bertha Benz Memorial Route brings the past to life while enjoying modern comfort and driving pleasure. Each stage offers new impressions: from baroque palaces to historic old towns to picturesque vineyards.
The mix of technical history, scenic variety, and cultural substance makes the tour a true experience for connoisseurs. Whether you are traveling in a convertible or a roadster—on this route, you can feel why road trips are more than just a means of transportation. The Bertha Benz Memorial Route is ideal for an extensive convertible tour, a compact convertible trip on the weekend, or as part of a larger convertible route through southwestern Germany.
