Discover a magical side of Germany, from hillside villages and majestic castles to ancient forests and bustling markets. This whimsical journey follows in the footsteps of the Brothers Grimm, who collected and preserved them—capturing decades of folklore passed down through generations.
Hanau: Where the Story Begins
Start in Hanau, the Brothers Grimm’s birthplace. In the elegant Philippsruhe Castle, the GrimmsMärchenReich museum brings fairy tales to life with interactive exhibits and multimedia storytelling. A stroll through the town square reveals their legacy through statues and story plaques. Don’t miss a meal at Klara – Küche & Bar, where the pork schnitzel is as memorable as the tales themselves. Consider lodging at PLAZA Hotel Hanau, conveniently located near the town center.
Steinau: Childhood Roots and Virtual Time Travel
Just an hour away, Steinau an der Straße is where the brothers spent much of their youth. Visit the Brothers Grimm House museum to learn about their lives, their famous Children’s and Household Tales, and their love for language. Then, step back in time with the GrimmZeit virtual reality tour—walk the cobblestone streets and experience the town through the eyes of young Jacob and Wilhelm. Their home felt like something out of a fairytale, and indeed felt like a happy place as they described. These were the joyous years before the tragic death of their father, causing them to be the primary caretakers with immense pressure upon them.
Marburg: Academic Inspiration
Marburg, a quintessential university town, was where the brothers studied and first began their scholarly pursuits. The “GrimmDichPfad,” or “Grimm’s Path,” takes you on a 1.5-kilometer fairytale-themed walk through the Old Town, filled with half-timbered houses and interactive displays. Enjoy a hearty lunch at Bückingsgarten, nestled just below the historic Landgrave’s Castle, before exploring its royal halls and sweeping views over the Lahn Valley. Plan for ample time strolling the streets, and taking in contrasting sites from the old castles to modern construction. The charming village is mesmerizing and something out of an animated movie.
Kassel: Tales Take Shape
In Kassel, delve deep into the world of folklore at GRIMMWELT, the world’s largest museum dedicated to the Grimms. Through modern, artistic exhibits, you’ll explore their contributions to both literature and linguistics. After lunch at Alte Wache in Schlosspark, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe to witness the “Path of the Water Features,” a masterpiece of garden architecture powered entirely by gravity. The steep steps offer picturesque views of the city, as the descend leads guests to spectacular waterfalls and eventually into a forest. The recommended place of stay is Best Western’s Boutique Hotel Kurfürst Wilhelm I, built around 1900, offering historical charm and rich character.
Freiburg: A Fairytale Farewell
Highly recommended is a final stop in Freiburg, a lively yet quaint college town. Wander cobblestone streets lined with shops and cafés, and watch children float toy boats along the canals. Each morning, the market square buzzes with farmers selling fresh herbs, local produce, handmade goods—and of course, sizzling German brats. Enjoy true farm to table produce, such as giant peas and carrots. For a toast-worthy finale, visit the Hemingway Bar and try their signature Red Lady cocktail.
Don’t miss the Schauinslandbahn cable car ride over the Black Forest. As you ascend above evergreen treetops and rolling hills, you’ll feel the wonder that must have inspired so many legendary tales.
For lodging, the Courtyard Marriott is ideally located in Freiburg’s Old Town, just minutes from the train station and steps from the lively heart of the city.
The Real Story Behind the Stories
Contrary to popular belief, the Brothers Grimm didn’t author these tales—they were linguists and scholars who collected oral traditions. Their first challenge? Editing some rather gruesome content. They coined “Once upon a time” to ease readers into a story, and “Happily ever after” to ensure a sweet ending.
But some versions still kept their bite—literally. In the original German Cinderella, the stepsisters go to disturbing lengths to win over the prince. One cuts off her toe to fit the slipper; the other, forces her heel into the shoe. The blood gives the shoe its now-famous red tint—represented in statues near the very castles that inspired the tale.
These stories—dark, magical, and morally sharp—captured the essence of a country where ancient forests, medieval towns, and deep-rooted folklore shaped the cultural imagination.
If you’re longing for a journey full of charm, history, and a touch of drama, the German Fairy Tale Route invites you to walk the same roads the Grimms once did—and maybe, just maybe, find your own happily ever after.
