Travelers Marked on Roadways
Discovering Germany's Hidden Gems with Brown Information Signs on Highways
For over 40 years, the brown information signs on German highways have been guiding drivers to worthwhile tourist destinations, offering a unique way to explore the country's rich history and scenic beauty.
A recent study by Sven Groß of Harz University has shed light on the impact of these signs, revealing that one in six drivers has followed a brown sign to a recommended tourist destination. The study, however, did not discuss any plans for increasing the number of brown signs or expanding their coverage.
These 2.40 x 3.60 meter boards, found along highways in the states of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and other regions in Germany, must be approved by the Autobahn GmbH and adhere to a design guideline by the Research Association for Road and Transport Infrastructure (FGSV).
The study surveyed 1,100 men and women, finding that approximately 96% of drivers notice these brown signs when they pass them. Notable tourist destinations with their own brown signs include the Cologne Cathedral, Neuschwanstein Castle, Heidelberg Castle, Holstein Switzerland, the Eifel, the Steinhuder Sea, the Harz, the Bavarian Forest, Hansapark in Sierksdorf, Affen- and Vogelpark Eckenhagen, Taunus Wunderland, Skihalle Neuss, European Chemical Region, Aischgrund Carp Pond, and Thuringian Dumpling World Heichelheim.
The cost to erect a brown sign ranges from 20,000 to 40,000 euros. Applicants are responsible for maintenance and removal of the signs if they become unsightly after 10 to 15 years. The study did not specify the exact number of drivers who have taken a detour to visit a recommended attraction more than once, nor did it discuss any potential negative impacts of drivers taking detours due to the brown signs, such as increased traffic or delays.
These brown signs are designed to help travelers discover notable tourist sites such as castles, museums, and picturesque towns, highlighting places rich in history and scenic beauty commonly found along routes like the Romantic Road in Bavaria. Key examples are Rothenburg ob der Tauber and The Romantic Road, known for its impeccably preserved medieval architecture, half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks like the Plönlein corner and the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum. It is often described as a fairy-tale town with a romantic atmosphere.
Another prominent attraction is Neuschwanstein Castle in Southern Bavaria, one of Germany’s most iconic and visited castles. Regensburg and The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) are also marked by these signs along major highways.
Sven Groß, the researcher behind the study on highway signage, finds the Thuringian Dumpling World Heichelheim sign interesting. Despite the study not providing information on the specific tourist destinations that have seen the most traffic from these signs, it is clear that the brown signs have played a significant role in promoting tourism in Germany.
[1] Source: https://www.germany.travel/en/discover/destinations/romantic-road.html
- The brown information signs on German highways are instrumental in guiding travelers to explore Germany's charming tourist destinations, such as the Cologne Cathedral, Neuschwanstein Castle, and the picturesque towns along the Romantic Road in Bavaria.
- For those seeking an authentic German travel experience, following the brown signs can lead to captivating attractions like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, known for its medieval architecture, half-timbered houses, and historic landmarks.
