We will be in Bavaria Sept 2016, before and after Oktoberfest. Total of about 10 days before we leave Germany for Poland. Would like to be in and out of Munich before Oktoberfest. Fly into Frankfurt, go I think directly to Munich and south--Zugspitze, Neuschwantstein, etc. for 3-4 days. Looking for historic, medieval sites and natural wonders. Need help narrowing the itinerary. Also interested in Rothenburg, Bamberg, Nurnberg and Regensburg--is this being redundant? Would likely do these driving north, maybe fly out of Nurnberg to Poland. Would also like to see Eagles Nest. Monasteries, cathedrals--castles over palaces--plus we are in 60s and wanting not to be dead at end of trip. Never been to Germany, have only guide books to go by--love Rick's books, but would love to hear of things he doesn't have room to cover. Hope this isn't too general. Thanks.
I wouldn't bother with the Eagle's Nest, although I enjoyed it - it's just a long ways outside of your scope. Rothenburg, Bamberg, Nürnberg, Regensburg - all worth a visit. Also consider Harburg and Nördlingen on the Romantic Road.
Thanks for the input.
Do think about staying in Frankfurt when you arrive and take the train the next day to Munich. This allows you to purchase the super cheap train tickets (19 € right now) and to get some sleep. The thought of waiting for a train, then sitting on this train for another 3 hours after a trans-Atlantic flight sounds excruciating.
Frankfurt has much to offer in terms of sightseeing, as this was and is a very old and historic city. Medieval churches, wonderful farmers markets, historical Jewish sites, and the cathedral was where the emperors were elected and crowned for centuries. The chapter on Frankfurt in Ricks book needs updating as it doesn't really do the city justice.