Long distance hiking in Germany in Sept

I'm looking at doing the Rheinsteig Walk and would love to save money and have more flexibility by booking accomodations independently rather than using a company such as Macs Adventures. Any advice on efficient ways to do this, towns that will make interesting lay-over days, and prefered direction of travel. Lastly, if there's a different trail that you like better, please let me know why you like it better. Thanks!