- How long is the The Rhine Valley by Train and Boat: Cologne to Mainz route?
- This route takes 9 days taking in 6 stops.
- Where does this route start and end?
- The route runs from Cologne to Mainz in Rhine Valley, Germany.
- When is the best time to travel this route?
- The best time to travel this route is May to October.
- How active is this route?
- Activity level: Easy-going. Easy-going and accessible for most fitness levels.
- What transport do I need for this route?
- This is a drive-free route — no car required.
- What budget do I need for this route?
- Mid-range spending — expect comfortable accommodation and a mix of dining options.
- What type of accommodation suits this route?
- Hotels accommodation works well along this route.
- What is the pace of this trip?
- Relaxed — plenty of time to linger at each stop.
- What type of trip is this?
- This route is well-suited to: Scenic, Culture, Food & drink, City hop, Drive-free.
- Are there any practical tips for this route?
- Cologne is a fast ICE hub, so arrive by train rather than a smaller airport. The cathedral and Old Town are a short walk from the Hauptbahnhof. Take the cable car up to Ehrenbreitstein for the best overview, then board a southbound KD boat into the gorge. A combined cable car and fortress ticket saves money. Stay on the river side of town and ride the chairlift in afternoon light. Boppard is a handy base for boats to St Goar and Rheinfels Castle. Evenings are quiet once day trippers leave, so book a Riesling tasting in a village courtyard. Hourly trains to Rüdesheim take only minutes. Time the vineyard cable car for late afternoon, then walk down through the vines. The Loreley day cruise leaves from the Rüdesheim and Bingen quays. Mainz links to Frankfurt Airport in about 30 minutes by S-Bahn or ICE, making it an easy final base before flying home.
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