Discover Trier: Roman monuments, cathedral and trails

When planning a hotel stay in Trier, it is worth choosing a clear focus: cultural sites in the old town, walks or cycling tours can each shape your stay differently. Trier is home to a UNESCO World Heritage ensemble of Roman and Christian monuments. These include the Moselle Bridge, the Imperial Baths (Barbarathermen), the Porta Nigra, the Imperial Baths (Kaiserthermen), the Aula Palatina, the cathedral and the Church of Our Lady. The surviving monuments are considered an outstanding testament to Roman civilization.

Roman architectural history in Trier

The Basilica of Constantine is considered the largest column-free hall building of antiquity. Concerts are held there several times a year; the main organ has more than 6,000 pipes. The frequency of concerts and the program may change. If a concert is part of your plans, check the dates in advance.

The Roman Bridge is freely accessible, although temporary construction work may affect access. Its basalt pillars date from the mid-2nd century; it is considered Germany’s oldest bridge. The market cross erected in 958 stands in the Main Market Square and is considered Germany’s oldest market cross.

The cathedral and city museum

Trier Cathedral of St. Peter brings together European architectural styles from antiquity in a compact space. According to tradition, the Holy Robe is understood to be the garment Jesus is said to have worn at his crucifixion. An animal-spotting activity gives children a way to explore the entire cathedral.

The City Museum Simeonstift displays original sculptures associated with the Steipe, the St. Peter’s Fountain and the market cross in the Main Market Square. Models show Trier around 1800 and after the bombings of the Second World War. Two different views of the city are thus presented side by side: Trier around 1800 and Trier after the bombings. The visitor program includes family tours, upcycling workshops and museum trails. Activities and times may change; check the current program when making specific plans.

Getting around on foot and by bike

The cultural sights of Trier’s old town can be visited on foot. There are opportunities to shop and eat along the way. Walking and hiking options associated with Trier include the Moselsteig and Eifelsteig trails, a wine walk through Trier, and a route from the Porta Nigra to Weißhauswald. There are also premium hiking trails and a certified circular route.

For cyclists, the official stages of the Moselle Cycle Route from Nittel to Trier and from Trier to Mehring are listed. The route is considered mostly flat along its stages, mostly paved and separated from motor traffic. Stages may be revised in future editions; surfaces and traffic conditions may temporarily change. Check the stage route and conditions before setting out on a specific tour.

Wine and Viez

At the Main Market Square, the wine stand presents selected wines from the Moselle, Saar and Ruwer wine-growing regions; at least two wineries are represented each week. The stand is seasonal, and the participating wineries may change. Viez is the traditional cider of the region between the Moselle and Saar. Varieties include pure apple as well as blends with pear, quince or elderberry.

The Viez Route also offers a regional perspective on this culture: it runs for more than 150 kilometers from Merzig to Trier and is used for cycling and hiking tours through villages with traditional rural life. The wine culture at the Main Market Square and the Viez Route offer different starting points for planning your trip: one leads to selected wines from three wine-growing regions, while the other combines a longer route with regional cider culture.

Discover more destinations: Welschbillig, Ehrang, Trassem, Saarburg-Hosteberg, Beuren, Wawern, Wehr, Kahren

For the overview of the wider region: Trier-Saarburg.