Epic Road Trip: Troyes to Krems an der Donau

This 850-kilometer route from Troyes to Krems an der Donau crosses three countries and two major river basins. The drive typically takes 8–9 hours via A5/E54 and A7/E56, but savvy travelers stretch it over two days. The legendary A81 through the Black Forest offers a 120-kilometer stretch of undulating curves that tests any driver's skill.

Known for its champagne cellars, half-timbered towns, and the Wachau valley's terraced vineyards, the journey rewards those who seek more than just the highway. For a deeper dive into finding the best stops between cities, read how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

• Estimated driving time: 8h to 9h without stops
• Recommended duration: 2 days with an overnight stay near Stuttgart or Ulm
• Key highways: A5 (France), A5/A8 (Germany), A1 (Austria)

The route transitions from the chalky plains of Champagne to the dense spruce forests of the Black Forest, then into the rolling Swabian Alb, and finally the terraced vineyards of the Wachau valley. Each region offers distinct local products: champagne in Troyes, kirsch in the Black Forest, and Grüner Veltliner wine in Krems.

• Troyes: Visit the Cité du Vitrail and taste bubbly at Maison de la Champagne
• Black Forest: Stop in Triberg for waterfalls and cuckoo clocks
• Ulm: Climb the Ulm Minster (the world's tallest church tower) for panoramic views
• Krems: Sample wine at a heurigen (wine tavern) along the Danube

Driving in Germany imposes strict regulations: winter tires are mandatory from November to March, and the speed limit on the autobahn is advisory (130 km/h) unless posted otherwise. In Austria, headlights must be on at all times. Fatigue zones are well-marked with rest areas every 30–40 km.

For families, the Europapark in Rust (near Freiburg) is a world-class theme park ideal for a half-day break. Pet-friendly hotels are plentiful: many gasthofs allow dogs for a small fee. Always carry a reflective vest and warning triangle in each country.

• €30 fine for no winter tires in Germany/conditions apply
• Best family stop: Europapark (exit Rust on A5)
• Pet-friendly rest: Raststätte Ohringen (A6) has a dedicated pet area

Detour 15 km south of A8 to visit the Hohenzollern Castle, a fairy-tale fortress perched on a mountain. For lunch, the Schwäbische Alb region offers Maultaschen (German ravioli) at Gasthaus Lamm in Metzingen. In the Wachau, the Stift Göttweig monastery offers wine cellars and panoramic views over the Danube.

• Hohenzollern Castle: 20 min detour via B27 from A8
• Recommended lunch: Gasthaus Lamm, Metzingen (traditional Swabian)
• Wine tasting: Weingut Familie Wagner in Dürnstein

Fuel costs vary significantly: France averages €1.80/L for diesel, Germany €1.70/L, and Austria €1.60/L. Fill up in Germany for the best value. Toll roads in Austria require a vignette (€9.90 for 10 days), while French autoroutes are tolled (approx. €60 total). Plan for two refueling stops: one near Strasbourg and another near Munich.

• Total tolls: ~€60 (France) + €0 (Germany) + vignette €9.90 (Austria)
• Fuel consumption estimate: 65–70 L for the entire trip (diesel car)
• Recommended fuel stops: Area of Rest Remiremont (A5), Rasthof Gruibingen (A8)