The Rhine Valley

The most scenic section of the Rhine Valley, the Upper Middle Rhine Valley — often simply mentioned because the Rhine Gorge — stretches for 65 kilometers from the gorgeous city of Koblenz all the thanks to the town of Bingen am Rhein. it's been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in recognition of its importance in terms of the history, geology, culture, and industry of this region of Germany. Rich in unique flora and fauna because of its microclimate, it is a fascinating section of the Rhine Valley to explore, especially if you extend your visit with a occupy an authentic guesthouse or inn situated in anybody of the various quaint towns and villages that hold close the riverbanks between the Rhine and therefore the cliffs. Notable samples of great bases from which to venture out and explore include the towns of Boppard, Lahnstein, Braubach, and Bacharach, to call but a couple of .

Whether you select to ascertain the Rhine Gorge from the comfort of a car or while cycling or walking along the banks of this mighty river, you cannot fail to be impressed by its steep cliffs, especially in places just like the famous Loreley Rock, an enormous rocky outcrop that rises vertically to a powerful 200 meters tall . Better still, hop aboard a full-day Rhine Valley River Cruise from Frankfurt, which can then whisk you by riverboat to historic Rudesheim and Lorely, stopping for a riverside lunch along the way (a half-day tour option is additionally available). Another great full-day river cruise runs from Cologne to Königswinter and provides variety of great sightseeing opportunities. Along the way, you'll hear plenty from your expert guides regarding the various important old castles and churches you will see , one among which — Drachenfels — you will be ready to visit (alternatively, you'll visit the fun Königswinter Sea Life Aquarium).

The old cathedral city of Mainz lies on the West Bank of the Rhine opposite the mouth of the River Main, just 44 kilometers west of Frankfurt. Located within the midst of the many of the foremost important Rhine Valley attractions, Mainz is a perfect location from which to explore this beautiful region of Germany. South along the Rhine are the picturesque old towns of Worms (famous for its cathedral) and Mannheim (famous for its medieval architecture), while to the north is that the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site of the Rhine Gorge.

The cathedral city of Worms, located on the West Bank of the Rhine, is one among the oldest towns in Germany. A highlight of a visit should be the 11th-century Cathedral of St. Peter (Wormser Dom). With its four round towers and twin domes, this spectacular old building ranks, along side the cathedrals of Speyer and Mainz, together of the best achievements of the High Romanesque style of architecture . The nave is especially impressive, rising some 27 meters tall, while its domes reach heights of 40 meters. Interior highlights include five Late Gothic sandstone reliefs from the old cloister, its fine choir stalls, and an outstanding Baroque altar . Other buildings of note in Worms' Marktplatz are the first 18th-century Trinity Church, with its fine interior, and therefore the 10th-century St. Magnus' Church