Driving through Franconia in a convertible
Franconia is a paradise for convertible fans: gentle hills, expansive vineyards, medieval towns, and historic castles shape the landscape. The route leads from Würzburg through Volkach, Kitzingen, Bamberg, Coburg, Kulmbach, and Bayreuth to Nuremberg. Each stage offers varied routes, impressive views, and numerous opportunities for breaks where culture, cuisine, and nature meet.
Start in Würzburg – Residence, Wine, and Open Roads
The tour begins in Würzburg, a city known for its magnificent residence and historic old town. The streets through the city and along the Main River are perfect for the first kilometers with an open top. Those with time should definitely visit the residence with its court garden or drive along the Old Main Bridge, where wine taverns and street cafés invite you to linger.
From Würzburg, the route goes out into the vineyards towards Volkach. This stretch is ideal for enjoying the first impressions of the Franconian landscape: gentle hills, green vines, and picturesque half-timbered villages line the road.
Second Stage: Volkach – Kitzingen – Bamberg
Volkach is situated near the Main River and is a popular destination for wine lovers. The small town center, historical buildings, and inviting wine taverns make Volkach an ideal stopover. The route then continues to Kitzingen, a town also shaped by viticulture, which features the distinctive leaning tower of St. John's Church as a landmark.
The drive to Bamberg opens up new perspectives: the city, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage, combines half-timbered, Baroque, and medieval architecture. Notably worth seeing is the Old Town Hall, which sits like an island in the Regnitz River. With the convertible, the city can also be explored on the small streets around the old town.
Third Stage: Bamberg – Coburg – Kulmbach
From Bamberg, the tour continues to Coburg. The city is known for the Veste Coburg, one of the largest castle complexes in Germany. The approach to the castle offers winding roads and beautiful views of the city and the surrounding area. Coburg itself is vibrant, featuring charming squares and cafés that invite you to relax.
The drive to Kulmbach takes you through the so-called "Beer Land Franconia." Here, there are numerous opportunities to sample local specialties. Near Plassenburg, which overlooks the city, a visit to the brewery museum is worthwhile to learn more about the history of beer. The stretch between Coburg and Kulmbach impresses with varied roads that include both open roads and winding passages through the hilly countryside.
Fourth Stage: Kulmbach – Bayreuth – Nuremberg
From Kulmbach, the journey continues to Bayreuth, the city of Wagner. In addition to the Margravial Opera House, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage, Bayreuth offers numerous parks and gardens ideal for a short walk. With the convertible, the streets around the city can be explored comfortably, while stunning views of the Fichtelgebirge and the surrounding valleys are always on offer.
The final stage leads to Nuremberg. The city combines history, culture, and modern living. The Imperial Castle, the Albrecht Dürer House, and the old town invite exploration. Here too, drives through the old town and along the Pegnitz River can be enjoyed. Nuremberg crowns a tour that showcases Franconia at its finest.
Tips for Your Convertible Tour Through Franconia
The route through Franconia can be comfortably completed in two or three days to allow ample time for sightseeing and breaks. In particular, the cities of Bamberg, Coburg, and Bayreuth are worth longer stays. Since the region is rich in castles and historic buildings, it is advisable to have map material or an app for orientation on hand. Near Volkach and Kitzingen, you'll find numerous wine taverns offering regional specialties. Also, make sure to pack enough clothing for variable weather, as it can be cooler at higher elevations. The roads are mostly well-maintained; however, winding country roads especially between Coburg, Kulmbach, and Bayreuth provide pure driving pleasure.
Conclusion: Experience Franconia – Nature, Culture, and Enjoyment
The convertible tour through Franconia combines gentle vineyard landscapes, historic towns, and impressive castles into a varied experience. The route from Würzburg through Volkach, Kitzingen, Bamberg, Coburg, Kulmbach, and Bayreuth to Nuremberg traverses varied landscapes that are even more intense with the top down. Being on the road in a convertible means enjoying every curve, experiencing nature and history up close, and feeling the freedom on the roads of Franconia.