Road Trip in Germany: Charming Mainz 🚗💨

Yesterday, right after landing and picking up our rental car, we hit the road straight to Mainz—a picturesque city along the Rhine River. Our German adventure began with a delightful breakfast by the Rhine promenade, watching boats glide by as the morning sun sparkled on the water. ☕🌅 After fueling up, we headed to the iconic Mainz Cathedral (Mainzer Dom). Since it was Sunday, the city felt like our private playground—quiet and peaceful, with most shops closed (typical for Germany!). The cathedral's red sandstone façade stood majestically against the blue sky, and we spent a good hour admiring its Romanesque architecture and intricate details. ⛪✨ Next, we wandered through the Old Town (Altstadt), where pastel-colored buildings and cobblestone streets transported us back in time. The Gutenberg Museum was unfortunately closed (note to self: check opening hours next time!), but we enjoyed the charming squares like Marktplatz, where locals gathered for coffee and conversation. A highlight was stumbling upon St. Stephan’s Church—its pink exterior and mesmerizing blue Chagall windows were absolutely breathtaking. The serene atmosphere inside made it a perfect spot for reflection. 🎨💙 For lunch, we found a cozy Weinstube (wine tavern) and indulged in regional specialties like Handkäse mit Musik (local cheese with onions) and a glass of crisp Riesling—because when in Rhineland, right? 🍷🧀 In the afternoon, we drove along the Rhine River, stopping at scenic viewpoints to snap photos of vineyards and castle ruins dotting the hillsides. If you have extra time, a short detour to Eltville (a nearby wine village) is totally worth it! Pro Tips for Mainz: ✔ Sunday = Quiet Day (plan meals ahead, as many restaurants close) ✔ Parking is easy near the cathedral (look for "Parkhaus Dom"). ✔ Walkable City—no need for a car once you're downtown. Ended the day with pork ribs at Stadtbalkon (still dreaming of that smoky flavor!) and a sunset stroll along the Rhine. 🌇 Mainz may be small, but its blend of history, wine culture, and riverside charm makes it a must-visit on any German road trip! #GermanyTravel #RoadTripGoals #Mainz #RhineValley #Wanderlust