Autobahn from Stuttgart to Munich

You've probably read some of our comments about A8. The section I drive most often is from Karlsruhe, via Stuttgart to Ulm, and yes, traffic is usually very heavy. You will learn the meaning very quickly of the word "Stau". East of Ulm, I've only driven once, so perhaps someone else can comment.

A8 is perfectly fine from Monday through Thursday and on Saturdays, after 9am and before 3:30pm... Also if we only get to drive 50mph or so due to traffic we call it a congestion.

I will mention the caveat that most of my experiences driving A8 are outside the times mentioned by Andreas. But when it's bad... it's really bad. I would be overjoyed if traffic was moving as fast as 90 km/h!

Don't forget there are also other roads besides autobahns ! The side roads may be a bit slower, but they will also take you through interesting smaller towns, and pretty scenery. You will perhaps get a better feeling of what average German towns look like, many of which don't see many tourists. I have never travelled anywhere with better - marked roads than in Germany. Driving there is so easy. If you want to stick with autobahns, then do so. But don't be afraid to use alternate roads. Navigating is so easy. Just look @ a map, and note the NAMES of the towns (more impt. than the route #) along the way to your destination, and the road signs will be crystal clear and take you right there - whether you are on an autobahn OR on a side road.
Many people find a GPS helpful. I have one, but have never needed it in Germany. Also, in case you haven't heard - if you are on the autobahn and want to pass a car in front of you, just make sure you know that a car travelling behind you @ 100 mph or faster will be up on your bumper fast as lightning - so when you go to pass, DO IT, and don't dawdle in the left lane. Have a good trip.

Driving is easy but so is the train. For that trip I'd take the train, it takes the same time but is more relaxing.

Thanks everyone! We're taking the train for this segment. :)