Things to do in Trier

The first time I visited Trier, I didn’t do the German city justice.

Conveniently located as a transit stop on a train journey I was doing, I just spent a couple of hours having a look around the centre. I was so uncommitted, I even dragged my luggage along with me, rather than trying to find a locker at the station.

It would’ve been a cursory look at any city, but it was particularly brief for somewhere that was once one of Europe’s great centres. Foolishly, I didn’t realise there were so many things to do in Trier.

Returning a few years later, I’ve been sure to make enough time to explore it properly.

Founded as early as the 4th century BC, Trier is considered to be one of Germany’s oldest cities.

And although it quickly became an important and strategic base for different ruling groups over the years, it was in the third century that it had a particular elevation.

This was the period when the Roman Empire was ruled with a system called ‘Tetrarchy’, where the government’s power was divided into four domains. One of these areas, called Constantius, had its capital at Trier.

Such was the importance and grandeur of the city that successive rulers would make it their base as battles for territory raged across the region.

Impressive buildings were constructed – a basilica, an amphitheatre, baths, and fortified walls to protect them all.

With all of this, Trier became known as ‘the second Rome’.

While there are other Early Roman monuments in Germany, particularly ones like Saalburg Fort along the Roman Limes, none are as grand or well preserved as the ones in Trier.

And none were as influential as those here, which helped cement Trier’s place on the geopolitical map of Europe at the time.

For more than 1000 years afterwards, well after the Roman Empire fell, the city maintained a significant level of power and influence, and even more grand buildings were constructed in Trier. Some of the older ones were even reworked in the 11th and 13th centuries to give them new life.

What you find when you visit Trier today is a bewitching blend of Roman monuments and more traditional German design, ancient carved-stone complexes interspersed with vibrant pastel paints.

Any one of these things would make a trip here worthwhile, but to find them all together is a real treat – and contained within such a small and dense area is a lovely bonus.

The interesting part of Trier is not large, although I do recommend staying overnight so you can see all the main attractions and hopefully have a bit of time to explore the surrounding landscapes (and taste some of the excellent local wines!).

It’s just over the border and in easy reach of Luxembourg City, so you can even combine the two cities, which have both been designated as World Heritage Sites – but for different reasons.

But, if you do that, please don’t rush. Trier can get busy in the middle of the day with tour groups but is delightfully peaceful at other times, with some good spots in the city centre or closer to the river for a meal and a drink.

When it comes to the main sights in Trier, there’s a lot to cover, even though they’re mostly in the city centre. With so many centuries of history, the hard thing is knowing exactly what you’re looking at and how it fits into the story of Trier.

To make the most of your time here, I would recommend this affordable city tour, or one of these other great options:

Ultimately, though, however you choose to do it, make sure you go beyond the facades to truly appreciate the evolution of the city through the Romans, the Gauls, the enlightenment and, most recently, the Germans.

That’s what I think makes visiting Trier so special.

Early Roman

Considering Trier was once one of the Roman Empire’s four capitals, it’s no surprise some of the best-preserved ruins from the third and fourth centuries are found here.

While some of Trier’s Early Roman sights are obvious, you’ll need to go beyond the city centre to see a few of them.

Porta Nigra

A natural starting point for your Trier explorations is Porta Nigra, an imposing structure that was once the city gates and is the largest monument of its kind in the north of Italy.

It’s really easy to spot, thanks to its sheer size and unmissable Roman design, which has been retained despite several renovation and restoration projects over the years.

As well as being able to walk through it, you can also go up into it – which is one of the best things to do in Trier because you’ll be able to appreciate the detailed carvings as well as the sheer size.

Although the Porta Nigra looks especially beautiful when it’s illuminated at night, history buffs should plan to visit during the day when the museum and upper floors are open.

Moselle Bridge

Another piece of history that wouldn’t look a bit out of place in any Italian city is the Roman Moselle Bridge.

Much like the Porta Nigra, this bridge is among the oldest Roman structures outside of Italy and had been here for centuries before most of Trier’s other historical sites were built.

As well as being a fascinating display of ancient architecture, the area around the bridge and the Moselle River is a lovely spot for a stroll and is among the most peaceful corners of Trier. To top it all off, the views from here are especially gorgeous.

Barbara Baths

As you might have guessed from the name, the Barbara Baths are a former bathing complex that was initially spread over 40,000 square metres.

These public thermal baths were commonplace during the Roman Empire, and this particular location was a popular spot between the 2nd and 5th centuries.

Only a portion of the original site remains today, but the walkway alongside the baths shows mock-ups of what these glamorous baths once looked like.

Regular excavations continue to take place here, so you might even catch a glimpse of a dig in action.

Igel Column

The Igel Column is much more than a well-preserved landmark – it’s actually an incredibly lavish tombstone!

At 23 metres tall, this column symbolises wealth and prosperity, which was extremely important to the upper-class Secundine merchant family buried here. This structure was built out of sandstone and is covered in dozens of engravings and scenes relating to the life of merchants at that time.

Remarkably, the Igel Column has stood the test of time and remains in pretty excellent condition to this day, though it’s lost most of its colour by now.

Amphitheatre

Nothing takes you back to the height of the empire quite like an amphitheatre, a quintessential component of any Roman city.

Located in a relatively peaceful pocket of Trier, you have to use your imagination to go back to a time when this sporting venue played host to thrilling gladiator fights, animal hunts, live entertainers, and even executions.

Luckily, if your visit lines up with the showtimes, you’ll get a taste of it with The Gladiator Valerius show. During this interactive performance, a team of talented actors bring this centuries-old history to life through the journey of a courageous young gladiator named Valerius.

Era of Constantine

Towards the latter end of the Roman Empire came the rise of Emperor Constantine. During his reign, he brought about a great deal of religious change as Christianity began to be more readily accepted, something that can be clearly seen through the architectural developments from that time.

Trier Cathedral

Trier Cathedral is one of the most outstanding landmarks in the city, despite being constructed over 1700 years ago.

Looking like a cross between a church and a fortress, this stunning cathedral has had quite a tumultuous past, having been destroyed, rebuilt and redesigned on multiple occasions.

The Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance-inspired touches are evident inside and out, but the Roman features are still the standout building style.

With so many hidden corners and artistic gems inside, it’s well worth setting aside at least an hour to do this place justice. Even better, it’s also free to enter.

Aula Palatina

The unique and captivating Aula Palatina is probably the Constantine-era building most closely associated with this revolutionary leader.

As soon as you step inside, you’ll be taken aback by the staggering size of this vast basilica, complete with soaring ceilings, red brick walls, an extraordinary organ, and a relatively simple design with minimal artwork inside.

Today, Aula Palatina is a Protestant church. While it’s open to the public, it’s important to be aware that you’ll likely encounter people worshipping during your visit, so make sure you’re quiet and respectful.

Imperial Baths

Despite being smaller in size, the Imperial Baths give the nearby Barabara Baths a serious run for their money.

Not only is this site better preserved, but it’s also home to a maze of underground passageways. This was how hundreds of slaves who worked at the baths would make their way from place to place as they massaged and pampered the wealthy members of society.

The ruins still standing today are a glimpse into the innovation of that period and have to be seen to be believed.

Medieval

The city of Trier continued to undergo significant changes throughout the Middle Ages. Some of the most beloved spots in town boast fine examples of Medieval architecture that have become synonymous with European cities.

I would recommend visiting these ones, which are among the best things to see in Trier.

Church of Our Lady

Sitting alongside Trier Cathedral is the Church of Our Lady, a Gothic basilica that looks considerably different from its next-door neighbour.

Thought to be the earliest building of its kind outside of France, this church is filled with vibrant stained glass windows, frescoes, towering columns, and magnificent sculptures.

A beautifully maintained cloister connects the Church of Our Lady to the Trier Cathedral, so it’s really straightforward to visit the two during a single visit, and it won’t cost you a cent.

Hauptmarkt

Trier’s beating heart, the Hauptmarkt, is the city’s main square and a former marketplace that’s every bit as bustling today as it was during the Middle Ages.

A bunch of superb bars and eateries are dotted around the square, making it one of the best people-watching spots in the city while your feet get some rest.

When it comes to medieval-era buildings, it doesn’t get much better than the Hauptmarkt. No matter where you look, you’ll be greeted with colourful, charming houses and narrow laneways that look like they’ve come right out of the pages of a fairytale.

Kornmarkt

Old meets new at the Kornmarkt, as contemporary buildings are nestled between their medieval, old-world counterparts.

Much like the Haupmarkt (but perhaps on a reduced scale!), there’s always something going on at the Kornmarkt, and it’s become a hub for dining, nightlife, and shopping.

It’s here that you’ll also find St. George’s Fountain, an 11-metre-tall Rococo creation honouring Elector Franz Georg von Schönborn, but it’s better known for being a lively meeting place for locals during the summertime.

If the Haupmarkt is ever a little overcrowded and you fancy somewhere quieter, the Kornmarkt will be your best bet.

More recent

While the earlier historical periods are often the focus, there’s also some fascinating history in the city from more recent times. In fact, some of my favourite sights in Trier are relatively new when compared with medieval masterpieces from the 10th century or Roman ruins that date back almost 2000 years.

Electoral Palace

There’s no Renaissance-style property in Trier that’s as enchanting as the Electoral Palace.

From the opulent exterior and regal statues to the pristine gardens and the water features, this place is fit for a king. However, the Electoral Palace was used as a barracks at one point and was even partly destroyed during World War II, so it’s quite astounding to see how immaculate it looks today after many upheavals.

Unfortunately, you can’t explore the interior of the palace, but the grounds are a fabulous place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Basilica of St Paulinus

Not to be overshadowed by its older alternatives, the Basilica of St Paulinus is a truly majestic church in its own right.

This Catholic chapel was built during the 18th century and features some of the most mesmerising artwork you’ll find in any basilica, which is a pretty big statement to make considering how many breathtaking churches there are throughout Europe.

The intricate ceiling painting is undoubtedly the centrepiece of this Baroque building, but the golden finishes and extravagant interior add to its allure. Especially when considering how innocuous the church looks from the outside.

In terms of underrated treasures in Trier, the Basilica of St Paulinus definitely tops the list.

Museums

Between the extensive history and the rich culture, it’s no surprise that Trier has its fair share of exciting museums, from displays showcasing centuries-old artefacts to exhibitions of some of southern Germany’s finest artworks.

Rheinisches Landesmuseum

If the spectacular Roman ruins scattered around the city have inspired you to dig deeper into Trier’s past, the Rheinisches Landesmuseum will be just what you’re looking for.

Some incredible finds from the Middle Ages and the Baroque period make up this archaeological museum. The ancient Roman tombs, statues, and mosaics are the best-loved treasures here.

You could easily get lost and spend hours trawling through thousands of antiquities. Tickets will set you back €8 apiece, and the Rheinisches Landesmuseum is open Tuesday to Sunday between 10:00 and 17:00.

Simeonstift

For a blend of art and history, make sure you allow time in your itinerary for the Simeonstift, Trier’s city museum.

Four floors worth of permanent and temporary exhibits are open to guests at the Simeonstift, housing medieval oil paintings, models of the city during different periods, clothing collections, and antique furniture, to name just a few.

I would recommend spending at least an hour at the Simeonstift to take in the highlights of the museum, and make sure you pick up an audio guide on your way in.

Entry is just €5.50, and you can visit every day except Monday from 10:00 until 17:00.

Karl Marx House

Not only is Trier famed as a former Roman capital, but it’s also the birthplace of Karl Marx, the philosopher best known as the father of communism.

The Karl Marx House is a museum honouring the life and work of Marx, but it’s also the building in which he was born and spent the first year of his life.

Inside, you’ll find information detailing his childhood and ideologies, plus a chair in which many believe Marx died, which is a little eerie.

Stop by any day between 10:00 and 18:00 for €5.

Toy Museum

You’ll be hit with a sense of nostalgia the moment you walk in the door at the Trier Toy Museum. Regardless of your age, you’re bound to get something out of this quaint museum.

Comprising over 5000 pieces, any old-school toy you could think of is probably somewhere inside. Expect to see the likes of dollhouses, train sets, figurines, scale models, marbles, and everything in between here.

Nature

Trier is indisputably most celebrated for its long and colourful history, but it’s also full of picturesque outdoor spots and fantastic hiking opportunities. These are some of the top places to check out when you want to get out and see a different side of Trier.

Moselle River

Running through the heart of Trier is the Moselle River, which also flows through parts of France and Luxembourg.

Just a 10-minute wander from the city centre, this is among the most scenic parts of Trier and is where you’ll find the famous Roman bridge, so you’ll likely come across the Moselle several times during your visit.

There’s a lovely pathway along the banks of the river, which makes for a stunning place for a walk, especially at sunset. Along the way, you’ll spot some quirky 18th-century buildings and the famous Kaiser Wilhelm Bridge… all depending on how far you plan on walking, of course.

Mosel vineyards

It always surprises me that Germany doesn’t have a bigger reputation for wine production because it actually makes some delicious drops – and when it comes to specific regions, the Mosel Valley is exceptionally underrated.

Rieslings are perhaps the area’s most acclaimed export, but plenty of other varieties are produced here, including Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. The wine is simply sublime, and the endless vineyards set on the steep hills of the region are absolutely stunning.

If you want to try some drops, stop by for a tasting at some of the top-rated wineries, including Dr Loosen, Dr Pauly-Bergweiler, and Van Volxem, which boasts the world’s most expensive bottle of wine if you have a few thousand euros to spare.

St Mary’s Column

For sweeping views over Trier and the Moselle, St Mary’s Column is hard to beat.

This column was constructed to honour the Virgin Mary and is easily reached by car, but there’s also a fantastic trail that leads you there from the train station in the centre.

The hike is short but steep and challenging in parts, though it should only take between 1-1.5 hours to complete.

It’s a pretty popular trek, but the path is rarely over-crowded.

Römerpfad hike

If you fancy getting out of the city for the day, make your way to the Römerpfad hiking area, just a 15-minute drive from the centre of town.

The most popular route here will take you around three to four hours to complete and consists of a 10 km loop that brings you past thick forests, waterfalls, dark caves, and Roman ruins. This means that you’ll have plenty of spots to explore along the way, which also makes the hike itself a little less tiring.

Early birds can pull up at Ramsteiner Weg car park, which is the most convenient parking lot, but there are also spaces available at the Ramstein Castle.