Weekend in Mainz

Thousand-year-old red sandstone cathedral with Romanesque architecture, tombs of archbishops, and a treasury museum (separate entry fee).

Tip: Climb the west tower for panoramic views of the city and Rhine—€3 entry, steps are steep but worth it.

A thousand-year-old Romanesque cathedral with dark red sandstone, tombs of archbishops, and a quiet cloister. The interior is vast and cool, with stained glass and a large bronze d

Tip: Head to the northeast tower base around 2pm for the best light on the medieval carvings. Free guided tours in German at 2pm on Saturdays.

One of Germany's great imperial cathedrals, with a striking red sandstone exterior and cloisters. Free to enter the main nave.

Tip: Visit mid-morning on a weekday to avoid crowds. The treasury (small fee) is worth paying for.

Romanesque cathedral with centuries of history, free to enter the main nave and see tombs, stained glass, and the cloister.

Tip: Go early on a weekday to avoid crowds; check for free guided tours in English on Saturdays.

A flat, paved walkway along the Rhine with views of the river, bridges, and the citadel on the opposite bank. Benches, grass strips, and a few kiosks.

Tip: Walk east from the Theodor-Heuss-Brücke towards the old harbour for quieter spots. Sunset is best for photos. Bring a picnic—the kiosks overcharge.

A wide riverside walk stretching from the Old Town to the Theodor Heuss Bridge. Benches, trees, and views of the Rhine.

Tip: Bring a picnic and sit on the grassy steps near the Rathaus at sunset—locals do it. No entry fee, but buy wine from a nearby kiosk for €3 a glass.

Long pedestrian walkway along the Rhine river with benches, trees, and views of the river and bridges. Great for a stroll or bike ride.

Tip: Bring a picnic and sit near the old customs house for best sunset views; free open-air cinema in July.

Contemporary art gallery in a former factory building, hosting rotating exhibitions of modern and street art.

Tip: Free entry on the first Wednesday of every month; check their website for late-night openings until 9pm on Thursdays.

A contemporary art gallery in a converted industrial space, showing rotating exhibitions of modern painting, sculpture, and photography. Normally €7, but free on Wednesdays.

Tip: Go on a Wednesday afternoon around 3pm—it's quiet then. Check the website first for current exhibition; some are stronger than others. Allow 90 minutes.

Large archaeological and art museum with Roman artifacts, medieval paintings, and modern works. Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.

Tip: On free days arrive before 11am to avoid queues; the Roman glass collection alone is worth the trip.