Mainz sits on the Rhine in western Germany, where the river meets the Main, and it makes a relaxed stop for travellers interested in books, history and wine. It is the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, and the city keeps his memory alive at the Gutenberg Museum, which tells the story of the printing revolution and its wider effects on how knowledge spread.
What to see
- The Gutenberg Museum is the natural first stop for anyone curious about the history of print.
- The medieval Old Town rewards an unhurried walk through its streets and squares.
- The Romanesque cathedral stands at the heart of the old city and is well worth a look inside and out.
Eating, drinking and the rest
The area is known for its wine, and a glass of local Riesling in one of the lively wine taverns is an easy way to end an afternoon of sightseeing. Mainz is also famous for its vibrant carnival, which gives the city a very different character when it takes over the streets.
A visit suits those who enjoy museums, walking through old quarters and a convivial evening out. Plan a few hours for the museum and the cathedral, and leave time to wander the Old Town and settle in at a tavern by the river.
