I'm looking for a place to spend a night or two between Rothenburg ob der Tauber and either Gengenbach or Staufen. I think it is probably a bit too far to travel that far in one day, because of the time and transfers it takes just to get out of Rothenburg. I have done traveled there several times before, but was always headed afterward to Frankfurt to fly back home. This time I am doing this at the beginning of my trip and not planning to come back north near the end. When I look on the map I see Stuttgart, but I have no interest in going there. Is there a cute, charming small city/village that you could recommend? I definitely want to go to Staufen, but that is not so easy by train either. Thanks.
Posted by
Greeley, co, usa
2588 posts
Esslingen next to Stuttgart
Posted by
Paradise
7072 posts
I've been to both Gengenbach and Staufen. Gengenbach is more interesting and hass a much better location with better sights nearby.
If you leave Rothenburg around 9 am you can reach either Ulm (NOT a small town but with a very nice old town) by around 12:00 or Esslingen (small) by around 1:00. Either would make for a nice place to spend half a day and an evening before moving on to Gengenbach.
Posted by
Frankfurt, Germany
9222 posts
Esslingen is gorgeous. I think you will enjoy it.
Posted by
Niagara, Ontario
1678 posts
Gengenbach pips Staufen ever so slightly for me.
I haven't done this but I think a nice long day would be to take the scenic train to Staufen via Donauschingen, another change in Freiburg (another good visit, if you have the time). The next train stops in Bad Krozingen. Get off here and walk along the creek to Staufen, about an hour in duration: it's a flat, very pleasant and peaceful walk, you may see some horses along the way.
Return the same way, or take the faster route back to Gengenbach via Offenburg.
Posted by
OP
Castle Rock, Colorado
185 posts
Thanks for the advice. I am going to Esslingen, Gengenbach and Staufen. I happen to love Staufen! I have been there several times before. It is the kind of place I look for.