Mainz Old Town: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Mainz , Germany

Mainz Old Town: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Active

(9 reviews)

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

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.

Available options

Mainz Old Town: A Self-Guided Walking 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

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Pass by

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 not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

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.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Mainz

Mainz is a vibrant city along the Rhine River, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively festivals. As one of Germany's oldest cities, it offers a unique blend of ancient Roman heritage, medieval charm, and modern cultural attractions.

Top Attractions

Mainz Cathedral

A stunning example of Romanesque architecture, Mainz Cathedral is one of Germany's most important religious sites. It took over 300 years to build and features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate carvings.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free entry, €3.50 for tower access

Gutenberg Museum

Dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the printing press, this museum houses a vast collection of historical printing equipment, manuscripts, and books.

Museum 1-2 hours €7 for adults, discounts available

Mainz Market

One of the largest and oldest markets in Germany, the Mainz Market offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of fresh produce, local specialties, and handmade crafts.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for items

Mainz Roman Theater

An ancient Roman theater dating back to the 1st century AD, this site offers a glimpse into Mainz's rich Roman history. It's one of the largest and best-preserved Roman theaters in Germany.

Historical 1 hour €4 for adults, discounts available

Mainz Wine Market Festival

Held annually in August, this vibrant festival celebrates the region's rich wine-making tradition. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, live music, and local cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

Cultural 1-3 days Free entry, wine tastings and food purchases vary in price

Must-Try Local Dishes

Handkäs mit Musik

A traditional German cheese dish made with aged hand cheese, marinated in oil, vinegar, and spices, and served with onions and cucumbers.

Dish Vegetarian, contains dairy

Spundekäs

A creamy cheese spread made with Camembert, cream, and spices, often served with bread or potatoes.

Dish Vegetarian, contains dairy

Mainzer Riesling

A crisp and refreshing white wine produced in the Rhine region, known for its fruity and floral notes.

Drink Vegan-friendly, contains sulfites

Mainzer Schoppen

A local beer served in a small, traditional glass, often enjoyed at festivals and taverns.

Drink Contains gluten, vegan-friendly options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby Rhine Valley Cycling along the Rhine River Bike Trail Wine tasting at local vineyards Strolling through the Old Town's picturesque streets Visiting museums and historic landmarks Attending festivals and events Boat tours on the Rhine River Swimming in the Rhine during the summer

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Mainz, with pleasant weather perfect for outdoor activities and festivals. The city is vibrant and full of life during these months.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken, especially in tourist areas and among younger people

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Mainz is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded tourist areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid using them in poorly lit or isolated areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and ensure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand

Getting there

By air

Frankfurt Airport • 50 km (31 miles)

By train

Mainz Central Station

By bus

Mainz Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with frequent services and clear signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Taxi Europa

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Altstadt (Old Town) Neustadt (New Town) Gonsenheim

Day trips

Wiesbaden

30 km (19 miles) • Half day to full day

The capital of Hesse, Wiesbaden offers a mix of elegant architecture, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural attractions.

Koblenz

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

Situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz is known for its stunning views, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene.

Rüdesheim am Rhein

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

A charming town on the Rhine River, Rüdesheim is known for its picturesque streets, vineyards, and wine culture.

Festivals

Mainz Wine Market Festival • Late August to early September Christmas Markets • Late November to late December Mainz Carnival • February/March (leading up to Lent)

Pro tips

Visit the Mainz Cathedral early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
Explore the Old Town's narrow streets and hidden courtyards to discover charming shops, cafes, and historic landmarks
Try local specialties like Handkäs mit Musik and Spundekäs at traditional taverns and restaurants
Attend a wine tasting at a local vineyard or winery to sample the region's famous Riesling and other local wines
Take a boat tour on the Rhine River to enjoy stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape