Looking for a city that blends rich history with laid-back charm? Welcome to Mainz, a vibrant gem on the banks of the Rhine. Wander through the picturesque old town and admire the stunning cathedral that defines the skyline. Catch the beloved Mainzelmännchen as they pop up at the traffic lights and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the river while soaking in the nature and relaxed atmosphere. And don’t forget: this is the hometown of Johannes Gutenberg, the man who changed the world with the invention of the printing press. Mainz is where history meets heart! Servus and welcome to my Mainz Blog!
As always, I want to remind you, that this blog isn’t perfect because everyone travels differently, and all trips involve changes of plans. I want to let you know that everything on this website has been experienced, photographed, and written by me. Since I finance all of my travel expenses on my own, the stories and opinions given are truly my own. If you’re interested in seeing more travel pictures or videos, feel free to check out my Instagram @michellecacija or my Tik Tok @michellecacija.
Index
- The Basics about Mainz
- Things you need to be aware of
- Medical insurance
- Things to do
- Summary of activities
- Where to eat
The Basics about Mainz
When to visit
Mainz is a lovely destination year-round, but the best times to visit are spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild and the city is especially vibrant. Summer offers warm days perfect for riverside strolls, while winter has its charm with festive Christmas markets.
Time Period
In my opinion, one day is enough to explore Mainz. While it’s a beautiful and historic city, the main attractions can easily be seen within a few hours. That makes Mainz ideal for a day trip or a short stopover during your journey through Germany.
Getting there
Getting to Mainz is easy and convenient, even though the city doesn’t have its own airport. Frankfurt International Airport is just about 30 minutes away by train or car. The city is well-connected by Germany’s rail network, and major highways lead directly into town if you’re driving. Whether you’re coming by plane, train, or car, Mainz is super accessible.
Where to stay
If you’re staying overnight, Mainz offers a range of options. From cozy hotels in the old town to well-known international chains. For convenience, look for accommodations near the train station or city center, so you’re within walking distance of all the highlights.
Getting around
Mainz is very walkable, especially the old town, where most sights are located. For longer distances, the local buses and trams are reliable and easy to use. If you prefer even a bit more flexibility, renting a bike is just as easy. You won’t need a car to get around the city center but comfortable shoes are your best travel companion.
What to pack
Pack depending on the season, but always bring comfortable walking shoes because Mainz is a city best explored on foot. In spring and autumn, layering is key: bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings. Summer can get quite warm, so pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat for sunny riverside strolls. In winter, be prepared for cold weather and bring a thick winter coat, hat, scarf, and gloves are essential to stay warm while exploring the city.
Additionaly, consider bringing your own little medication bag, including Band-Aids, pain relief tablets, sleeping tablets or spray, bug spray, aftersun, etc. You never know what you might need it for, and you might feel more comfortable using medication from home rather than in a country where you don’t know the ingredients and languages. If you’re coming from outside Europe, don’t forget to bring a Type C power adapter.
Cost of traveling
Mainz is relatively budget-friendly compared to larger German cities like Frankfurt, Munich etc. Many of the main sights, like the cathedral and riverside, are free to visit. Public transport is inexpensive, though you might not even need it, as the main attractions are all within easy walking distance. When it comes to food, you’ll find everything from affordable street snacks and local bakeries to cozy mid-range restaurants. If you’re just here for a day trip, expect moderate costs, especially if you’re traveling by regional train or using a Germany rail pass.
Things you need to be aware of
Sundays. On Sundays, shops and supermarkets are closed, while restaurants and cafes usually remain open. But if you think that there is nothing to do on a Sunday, you are wrong. Maybe it’s time to explore the museums, the Old Town and the nature in and around Mainz!
Water in Germany. You can safely drink tap water in Germany as it’s clean and meets the World Health Organization standards.
Toilet situation. Unfortunately, public restrooms typically cost around 50 Cent to a euro in Germany (and many other European countries). So, make sure to carry a few coins with you and always use the restroom before leaving your accommodation, a restaurant, or a café. In Mainz specifically, I actually didn’t see any public toilets, so planning ahead is especially important there.
Tipping. In Germany, tipping is very common. It’s customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants, cafes, and for taxi services.
Currency. The currency in Germany is the Euro. While a few years ago, Mainz was still very cash-oriented, they now accept cards almost everywhere. It’s still advisable, though, to bring some cash with you.
Medical insurance
I highly recommend getting travel medical insurance while you’re traveling. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. SafetyWing offers two flexible plans tailored to your travel needs — whether you’re a short-term adventurer or a long-term expat, you’ll have reliable coverage anywhere in the world.
SafetyWing is especially great for remote workers and digital nomads, offering continuous global coverage even if you’re hopping between countries. Of course, it’s also a solid option for frequent travelers or those constantly on the go. But if you’re only traveling occasionally or just for a short holiday now and then, there might be better-suited alternatives.
Things to do
Old Town
The Old Town (Altstadt), with its labyrinth of narrow alleys and centuries-old charm, is a rare gem in Germany. Unlike many historic city centers that were lost to the devastation of World War II, most of Mainz’s Altstadt was miraculously spared.
At the center of this enchanting district lies the Marktplatz, the main square of both the inner city and the Old Town. From here, your eyes will be irresistibly drawn to the grand silhouette of the Mainz Cathedral of St. Martin, a Romanesque structure with over a thousand years of history, which I’ll delve into more deeply later in this blog. The Marktplatz itself is alive with color and energy, especially on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7 AM to 2 PM, when the weekly market takes over the square. Local farmers and artisans fill the air with the scents of fresh bread, ripe fruit, flowers, and other goods.
Yet the true soul of Mainz reveals itself not in the open square, but in the quieter, hidden corners of the Old Town. Take a stroll through the side streets and let yourself get lost among half-timbered houses that seem to whisper tales of the past. Some of these buildings are now under official historical protection, their delicate wooden frameworks and colorful facades lovingly preserved.
Also while you explore the Old Town, make sure not to miss the Augustinerstraße, arguably one of the most picturesque streets in all of Mainz. Lined with shops, cafés, and architectural marvels, it’s a street where history and daily life blend seamlessly.
St. Martin Dome
No matter where you stand in Mainz’s historic center, your gaze will inevitably be drawn to the silhouette of St. Martin’s Cathedral (Mainzer Dom), the city’s most iconic and unmistakable landmark. Rising proudly over the Old Town, this Roman Catholic cathedral has stood for over a millennium. Since its foundation in the late 10th century, the cathedral has burned down not once, but seven times, and each time it was rebuilt, reshaped, and reimagined. These reconstructions have left their mark: a remarkable blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles coexist in harmony, offering an architectural journey through the ages with every glance.
Step inside, and you’ll find a sacred space rich with history. The interior is home to numerous tombs and funerary monuments of powerful prince-bishops and archbishops who once ruled not just Mainz, but held significant influence across the Holy Roman Empire.
Just next to the dome lies a peaceful cloister courtyard, a tranquil green space enclosed by elegant arcades. And if you want to dig deeper into the cathedral’s layered history, don’t miss the Cathedral and Diocesan Museum, located within the complex. Here, you’ll discover sacred art, ancient manuscripts, and treasures.
Visitor Information: Entrance to the cathedral and the cloister’s garden is free of charge. The museum, however, requires a small admission fee which can be purchased right at the entrance.
Gutenberg Museum
Just a short stroll from the dome lies one of Mainz’s most fascinating cultural treasures: the Gutenberg Museum. Dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg, the visionary son of Mainz who revolutionized the world with the invention of movable-type printing.
Inside, the museum brings the history of printing to life, from Gutenberg’s groundbreaking 15th-century press to the evolution of bookmaking across continents and centuries. Original printing presses, rare manuscripts, and even one of the few surviving copies of the Gutenberg Bible can be found here, offering a rare and moving glimpse into how human knowledge was transformed forever.
Although I didn’t have the chance to visit the museum during my one-day stay in Mainz, I’ve heard that it’s both fascinating and interesting. Next time I’m in the city, a visit to the Gutenberg Museum will be right at the top of my list!
Visitor Information: Entry to the Gutenberg Museum is €10.00 for adults, while students, trainees, and individuals with disabilities (with valid ID) enjoy a reduced rate of €6.00. Children under the age of 3 are admitted free of charge, and young visitors aged 4 to 18 pay just €4.00.
River Rhine
If you’re craving a moment of peace and nature during your time in Mainz, you won’t have to wander far from the Old Town. Just a few steps away lies the River Rhine, flowing gently past the city and offering a serene escape from the city’s buzz.
You can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, cycle beside the shimmering water, or simply find a shady bench beneath the trees. From there, watch the world go by, from colorful container ships and elegant river cruise boats gliding past, to locals walking their dogs or enjoying the day with a coffee in hand.
Mainzelmännchen
If you’ve ever watched German television, chances are high that you’ve met them: the mischievous little Mainzelmännchen. These iconic cartoon figures have been the beloved mascots of Germany’s national broadcaster ZDF, which happens to be headquartered in Mainz. These cheeky little cartoon figures have been entertaining viewers for decades and in Mainz, you’ll spot them not just on screen.
As you walk through the city, keep an eye out for Mainzelmännchen traffic lights. You’ll find them at pretty much every crossing, smiling and waving to guide your way. Sometimes they even pop up at construction sites. And if you’d like to take one home yourself, the ZDF Shop in the Old Town and many souvenir stores across Mainz sell a variety of Mainzelmännchen figurines and gifts.
Summary of activities
- Old Town
- St. Martin Dome
- Gutenberg Museum
- River Rhine
- Mainzelmännchen traffic light
Where to eat
- Wilma Wunder – mixed cuisine (unpaid ad)
Michelle Cacija 
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