Mainz Old Town: A Self-Guided Walking Tour
4.9 / 5 · 13 traveler reviews
Mainz is where Romans built theatres and fortresses, archbishops wielded power, and Gutenberg revolutionized information with the printing press. On this self-guided walking tour through the medieval old town, you’ll hear all about the Holy Roman Empire’s power, Napoleon’s ambitions, and a remarkable Jewish artist’s gift of reconciliation. The tour begins at the magnificent 1,000-year-old St. Martin’s Cathedral, a powerful symbol of Mainz’s religious importance as the Rome of the North. You'll wander past Heunensäule (Haystack Pillar) in Marktplatz, and through cobblestone squares and narrow alleys to discover vibrant wine houses and meticulously preserved half-timbered buildings. You'll see the city’s impressive hilltop Citadel, and the ruins of the largest Roman amphitheater north of the Alps before the tour concludes on Augustinerstrasse, Mainz’s popular shopping street, where you can easily return to the Old Town or stop for a glass of local Rheinhessen wine.
Your experience
Stop 1
You’ll pass by the impressive Mainz Cathedral, a striking example of Romanesque architecture with over a thousand years of history. However, entry to the cathedral is not included in this tour.
Stop 2
You’ll pass through Leichhof, a charming square near Mainz Cathedral known for its cafés and relaxed atmosphere. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.
Stop 3
You’ll stroll past Kirschgarten, one of Mainz’s most picturesque squares, lined with half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.
Stop 4
You’ll catch a glimpse of the Gutenberg Museum, dedicated to the life and legacy of Johannes Gutenberg and the history of printing. Please note that admission to the museum is not included in this tour.
Stop 5
You’ll pass by the Staatstheater Mainz, a prominent cultural venue known for its performances in opera, drama, and dance. However, entry to the theatre or its performances is not included in this tour.
Stop 6
You’ll pass through Ballplatz, a historic square in Mainz known for its vibrant atmosphere and surrounding architecture. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.
What’s included
- Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- App for Android and iOS
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
- Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Not included
- Smartphone and headphones
- Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour
Meeting and pickup
This tour starts at the Marktplatz in Mainz. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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