Day Trips in Trier

Rather than spend your entire vacation in Trier, why not take a short trip out of the city? Here some day trips that World 66 recommends.

Stolzenfels Castle in Koblenz

Koblenz, an ancient German city, is located a little over an hour from Trier. It can be reached by both train and car. Trier has a regional bus and train station that is centrally located. Once visitors arrive in Koblenz, they will be met with the striking beauty that this Germany city possesses. After taking a few moments to snap some pictures of the beautiful surroundings, make your way to Stolzenfels Castle.

The castle is located several miles from the center of the city and can be a long walk for a weary traveler. A taxi ride will make the journey seem very quick. Keep in mind that travelers must walk up a steep hill to actually get to the castle. Although the castle is visible from a far distance, it will seem mammoth once visitors arrive at the top of the hill.

Originally constructed in the 13th Century, Stolzenfels went through a major reconstruction in the 1800s that eventually made it the opulent building that it is today. The Neo-gothic castle is complete with a gatehouse, towers and a drawbridge. It's a refreshing change from many of the drab and impersonal castles that are near Trier. Stolzenfels Castle is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Tours take place every two hours starting at 10:30 am and ending at 4:30 pm. It is closed during the month of December and it's always wise to make sure the castle is not closed for renovations before you make the long journey to view the building. This day trip will take most of the day and seniors should consider the amount of walking involved.

Birthplace of Beethoven

Bonn is located about an hour and a half from Trier. The secondary capital of Germany can be reached by train or car. Aside from being laced with history and beauty at almost every corner, Bonn is the birthplace of Beethoven. A museum, Beethoven-Haus, holds important pieces from the life of the great composer. Mementos, manuscripts, and pictures comprise the majority of the collection. The most amazing pieces, however, come in the form of musical instruments. Visitors can't help but imagine Beethoven sitting at the piano and passionately playing. A visit to Beethoven-Haus is something that travelers will look back on and really appreciate how special it was to view personal items of such a historic figure.

Beethoven-Haus is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. Hours of operation change with the season and admission is 4 Euros per adult. There are special family prices.

Fun in Frankfurt

Frankfurt is 120 miles from Trier and can easily be reached by train or car. Frankfurt is a city that has more than its fair share of attractions and activities. For travelers who are just in town for a day trip, the Main Tower is highly recommended. On the very top of this building, which reaches a staggering 200 meters, a 360-degree view of the city is waiting for you. Elevators will take travelers almost to the top. One flight of stairs will need to be climbed in order to get to the observation deck.

Admission cost about 5 Euros per person and the Main Tower is open until 10:00 pm. The view, especially at night, of the city below will take your breath away. Romer market square is wonderful way to start or end your day in Frankfurt. The Romer is in the heart of the Old City and is lined with shops, restaurants and churches. It's a great area to rest and take photos or to have a bite to eat before your journey back to Trier. This day trip to Frankfurt will take the entire day.