Fantastic train journey on the Rhine: Legendary route from Cologne to Mainz!

Transparenz: Redaktionell erstellt und geprüft.
Veröffentlicht am

Experience Koblenz on November 9, 2025: historical stopover on the UNESCO Rhine Route with Deutsches Eck and fortress.

Erleben Sie Koblenz am 9. November 2025: historischer Zwischenstopp an der UNESCO-Rheinroute mit Deutschen Eck und Festung.
Experience Koblenz on November 9, 2025: historical stopover on the UNESCO Rhine Route with Deutsches Eck and fortress.

Fantastic train journey on the Rhine: Legendary route from Cologne to Mainz!

The left Rhine route in North Rhine-Westphalia has become one of the most beautiful and historic train connections. It has existed for over 150 years and connects Cologne with Mainz over a distance of 195 kilometers. This impressive route, which begins at Cologne Cathedral, was recently named one of the most spectacular train journeys in the world in Lonely Planet's book “Legendary Train Journeys”. This is great news for all travel lovers and history enthusiasts.

The train journey not only runs through picturesque landscapes, but also through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Middle Rhine Valley. Right at the beginning we go to Bonn, the former capital of West Germany, where the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven can be found. A short stop here is definitely worth it!

From history to romance

After Bonn we continue to Andernach, where the powerful city wall brings back memories of the Middle Ages. One of the most important stops is Koblenz, known for the Deutsches Eck and the impressive Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. The romantic section of the route begins from Boppard. Here, quiet cobblestone streets and steep banks enchant travelers. The section of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley is famous for its numerous castles, including the majestic Rheinfels Castle.

The Loreley, with an old legend about a seductive virgin, is another highlight of this trip. When train travelers arrive at Rüdesheim, there are castle ruins and vineyards to explore, including Ehrenfels Castle and Brömserburg. The picturesque journey ends in Mainz, where the landscape becomes flatter.

Practical travel information

The route from Cologne to Mainz takes from 2 hours and 20 minutes without intermediate stops. Travelers can use the Deutschlandticket on regional trains, which ensures good business. The best time to travel for this impressive tour is late May or early October. A tip for all explorers: Use several local trains to take a short break at different places and explore the surrounding area.

Cologne itself, the fourth largest city in Germany, has over 1.1 million inhabitants and is the largest city in North Rhine-Westphalia. The city is known for its impressive Cologne Cathedral, which plays a key role in the city's history. It was founded in 38 BC. Founded in the 1st century BC and has since experienced a diverse history, from Roman times to the present day. An attractive cultural center with over 30 museums, numerous galleries and universities, it attracts people from all over the world.

This train journey on the Left Rhine route is not only a way to enjoy the natural beauty and historical sites along the Rhine, but also a wonderful introduction to the diverse history of the city of Cologne and its surroundings. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of this unique region!