When it comes to knowing the best places to visit in Germany, leave it to travel legend Rick Steves to provide valuable suggestions. Known for its historic destinations, fairytale towns and villages, and lively beer halls populated by patrons filling their glasses endlessly with golden pilsner, Germany checks all the boxes when it comes to the ultimate European country to visit. For travelers looking to experience the magic of Germany, Steves mentions that the town of Bacharach is known for its wine and “time-capsule quaintness” that’s sure to charm visitors.
Steves has noted how much he loves a Rhine River riverboat tour, because the journey along with the stunning scenery never gets old. While a relaxing boat ride is always nice, the best way to explore the scenic beauty of Germany and the romantic Rhine’s gems is by experiencing the cute little villages and towns along its banks. The town of Bacharach feels as though you’ve entered the pages of a history book, and in one of Steves’ blog posts, he refers to it as “an inviting place to linger.”
Located just a 30-minute train ride away from the city of Mainz, or an hour-long train ride away from Frankfurt, which also hosts an international airport, the Medieval town of Bacharach can easily be reached as a day-trip, or for a relaxing weekend getaway along the Rhine. Better yet, take a scenic riverboat cruise like Steves to truly appreciate the Rhine’s majestic beauty, and disembark as it docks in Bacharach.
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Sip on fine wine and enjoy festival festivities in Bacharach
Church on top of a vineyard hill in Bacharach, Germany – Leamus/Getty Images
To most, Germany is known for its beer, however, Bacharach has put Germany’s wines on the map, drawing tourists to taste its grape harvest in liquid form. Famous for its crisp and fruity Riesling, wine connoisseurs from across the world will enjoy sipping a glass surrounded by the vineyards the grapes are harvested from while visiting Bacharach. Red wine lovers looking for something with depth and full of robust flavors can enjoy a glass of Pinot Noir, also known as Spätburgunder, which Bacharach proudly produces from its grape terraces and ages in oak barrels for months.
In one of Steves’ blog posts, he mentions the deep-rooted history and culture behind Bacharach’s wine culture and production. “The town and its wine date from Celtic and Roman times. Local vintners brag that the medieval Pope Pius II preferred Bacharach’s wine, and had it shipped to Rome by the cartload. Today, tourists drink it on the spot.” Located high among the terraces above Bacharach, you can find a winery that’s been harvesting grapes for generations. Bastian Winery invites guests for wine-tastings and relaxed walks through the vineyard just a short stroll away from Bacharach’s picturesque old town, all while savoring a glass in the midst of stunning views.
Held the first weekend of October to clear the wine barrels for harvest, (a tough job, but someone has to drink it), Bacharach Wine Festival Summer Night is a beloved event that’s a hit with locals. The town even appoints an honorary party mayor, granting them the prestigious title of Bacchus in honor of the ancient Roman wine God.
Put down the map and wander aimlessly in Bacharach’s quaint streets
Old Town street with half-timbered buildings in Bacharach, Germany – travelview/Shutterstock
It may sound cliche, but the best way to explore Bacharach is by putting down the map and getting lost in its streets. In another blog post, Steves mentions that Bacharach’s “time-capsule quaintness” is why so many tourists are drawn there. The streets are filled with old, yet well-preserved half-timbered buildings that look as though they could be from the pages of the gingerbread-themed fairytale, “Hansel and Gretel.”
Towering over the Medieval cobblestone streets of Bacharach, the 12th-century Stahleck Castle stands tall and is home to a laid-back hostel, Jugendherberge Stahleck. It offers free breakfast to guests of all ages, and was where Steves stayed the first time he visited the Rhineland. A local friend of Steves recalls that “as a kid in the ’70s, he and his friends scaled the castle walls to hang out with girls staying in the hostel.” Just a short walk away, high in the vineyards between St. Peter’s Church and Stahleck Castle, the Gothic Werner Chapel is a must-visit to appreciate the restored historic landmark that boasts incredible views of Bacharach and the Rhine below.
Back in town, head to the Altes Haus, one of Bacharach’s most historical and beautiful buildings, with a red and white half-timbered façade. Noted as the oldest building in town, dating as far back as 1368, the building houses a traditional German restaurant with a cozy wooden interior serving up classics like pork schnitzel. Eating a meal here while sipping a cold glass of Riesling will make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.
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