Bingen am Rhein is a riverside village in the shadow of undulating green hills. It is known for its architecture, which includes reminders of its fascinating Roman and medieval history. Stroll through the historic center to marvel at the range of buildings that have prevailed against time over centuries.
Gaze up at the impressive Basilika St. Martin and notice the interesting red features of its façade. Enter to see the large nave and inspect works of art from the 16th century.
Walk along the banks of the Rhine River to enjoy hot summer days in this warm part of Germany, which has mild-to-cold winters and a fair amount of rain. The highlight on an island in the river is the Mouse Tower, rebuilt many times after initially being erected by Romans. Hear the legend of a cruel leader eventually eaten by mice.
Cross the adjacent Nahe River on one of the oldest bridges in Germany, the Drusus Bridge. A stone bridge here was initially built by Romans in A.D. 70, before being destroyed and reconstructed several times over the millennia.
Learn the tale of St. Hildegard von Bingen, who was a 12th-century composer, theologian, scholar and healer. The Museum am Strom showcases exhibits relating to the various stages of her life and the feats she accomplished.
Get a sense of the local culture by attending some of the regular events held here. The Bingen Winzerfest is a September wine festival lasting 11 days. Come here for one of the summer Rhine in Flames nights, when the old buildings are illuminated by fireworks and light displays.
The town lies in the Mainz-Bingen district in the province of Rhineland-Palatinate. It is in southwest Germany, not far from other fascinating communities, such as Koblenz, Wiesbaden and Mainz. Fly to Frankfurt Airport and drive west for about 40 minutes to get here.
Bingen am Rhein is a place for extraordinary views, a relaxed pace of life and a multilayered history.
