Mainz City Tour

City Walk Mainz: Discover the History and Charm of the Rhine City

This walk through Mainz takes you past historic landmarks, beautiful churches, and green parks. Start your walk at Mainz Central Station and discover the rich culture, architecture, and atmosphere of this city on the Rhine. The hike spans about 10.5 kilometers and leads you in a relaxed manner to the highlights of Mainz.

 

Start: Mainz Central Station

Begin your tour at Mainz Central Station, an impressive Neo-Renaissance station that serves as one of the city's major hubs. From here, follow Kaiserstraße, a wide, green boulevard that takes you through the heart of the city.

Church of Christ

Your first stop is the monumental Church of Christ, an impressive Romanesque church from the 19th century with a high dome that dominates the skyline of Mainz. The church is an important religious and architectural symbol of the city.

Electoral Palace and Martinsburg

Next, head to the impressive Electoral Palace, a magnificent Renaissance palace that was once the residence of the Electors of Mainz. Nearby, you can find the remains of Martinsburg, a medieval castle that was part of the city's defense at that time.

Castle Gate and City Hall

Continue to the Castle Gate, a historic gateway to the old town. From here, you walk to the City Hall, an elegant building that often hosts cultural events and concerts.

SMS Mainz and Rhine Waterfront Gallery (Sculpture Shore)

By the banks of the Rhine, you can see the monument honoring the SMS Mainz, a warship that sank in World War I. Continue along the waterfront, past the Rhine Waterfront Gallery, where the Sculpture Shore greets you with modern sculptures along the water. This is a relaxed and artistic part of the route with beautiful views over the Rhine.

Rotary Bridge at Winter Harbor and Yacht Club

A bit further along the Rhine, you will find the historic Rotary Bridge at Winter Harbor, an old swing bridge by the yacht harbor. Here you can enjoy a peaceful view over the boats and the river while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the Yacht Club.

City Park Mainz

Leave the promenade behind and stroll to the green City Park Mainz, a spacious park with flower gardens, ponds, and walking paths. The park is an ideal place to relax during your city walk.

Luther Church and Roman Theater

From the park, you can continue your walk to the impressive Luther Church, a Protestant church with a unique blend of Neo-Gothic and Neo-Romanesque architecture. Nearby, you can admire the remains of the Roman Theater, which was an important cultural center of the city in ancient times.

Fortress and St. Jakob Monastery

Continue to the Mainz Fortress, part of the old city wall and fortifications. Here you can also visit the historic St. Jakob Monastery, a former Benedictine monastery that now serves as a cultural center.

Windmill Hill and St. Stephen's Church

From the fortification, you ascend to Windmill Hill, where you have a beautiful view of the city. Here also stands the famous St. Stephen's Church, a Gothic church known primarily for its impressive stained-glass windows by Marc Chagall. A visit to this church is one of the cultural highlights of Mainz.

Willigis Square and Frankfurt Court

Next, head to Willigis Square, named after the famous Archbishop Willigis. Here you will also find the historic Frankfurt Court, which is now a center for concerts and events.

Seminary for Priests and Augustinian Church

On your way to the old town, you will pass the imposing Priests' Seminary, a historic building that is still in operation today. A little further, you will find the Augustinian Church, a Baroque church with an impressive interior.

Capuchin Church and Cathedral and Diocesan Museum

Visit the Capuchin Church, a small but charming church from the 17th century, before visiting the Cathedral and the Diocesan Museum. The museum offers a fascinating overview of the religious history of Mainz.

Mainz Cathedral and Church of Maria ad Gradus

The absolute highlight of the hike is the majestic Mainz Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in Germany. The impressive Romanesque architecture and the rich history of the cathedral are breathtaking. Nearby is the Church of Maria ad Gradus, of which only the ruins remain, but which was once an important pilgrimage site.

Market, Höfchen Fountain, and State Theater

After your visit to the cathedral, stroll through the charming Market, the main square of the city. Here you will also find the Höfchen Fountain, a beautiful fountain. Continue past the State Theater, an important cultural institution that offers concerts and performances.

St. Quentin's Church and St. Christopher's Church

You continue your walk to St. Quentin's Church, a Gothic church built on the remains of a Roman bathhouse. Next, you will reach the Church of Christoper, which was erected as a memorial for the victims of World War II.

Peter's Church and House Burgundy

Visit Peter's Church, a small but special church in the old town, before heading to House Burgundy, a cultural center that represents the connections between Mainz and Burgundy.

Antoniter Chapel and St. Emmeran

Near House Burgundy is the charming Antoniter Chapel, a small chapel with a peaceful ambiance. You will also pass by St. Emmeran, a historic church dedicated to Saint Emmeran of Regensburg.

Stadioner Hof and back to the station

Conclude your walk at Stadioner Hof, a historic building steeped in history. From here, return to Mainz Central Station and wrap up your city walk.

 

Highlights of the City Walk:

Mainz Cathedral: An impressive Romanesque cathedral.

St. Stephen's Church: Stained glass windows by Marc Chagall.

Rhine Waterfront Gallery (Sculpture Shore): Modern art along the Rhine.

Electoral Palace: A beautiful Renaissance palace.

City Park Mainz: A green oasis in the city.

 

Total Distance and Duration:

Distance: approx. 10.5 kilometers

Duration: approx. 4 - 5 hours (depending on breaks and sightseeing)

 

On this city walk, you will discover the best of Mainz, from historic monuments and churches to green parks and the picturesque banks of the Rhine.