Trier

Understand

Trier is rich in ruins from the Roman Empire (protected by UNESCO), such as the Porta Nigra, the Roman baths and Roman amphitheater. As Trier was founded by the Romans as Augusta Treverorum, it can dispute the title of "oldest German city" with Augsburg, Cologne, Kempten and Xanten. Unlike the somewhat provincial and quaint feel the town exudes today, it was actually one of the centers of power during the Imperial Crisis of the 3rd century AD, and certainly the most important Roman town of the province of Germania.

Besides its ample Roman heritage, Trier is also known as the birthplace of Karl Marx, a fact that the city has had difficulty grappling with during more anti-communist times, but now widely markets for tourism. 300px|thumb|Basilica of Constantine

Get around

Walking is the best way to travel around the city, though a vehicle is good when visiting the stadium. Also there is a scenic overview up the hill by the stadium where you can see the entire city. The city tours take you up there.

See

right|thumb|250px|Roman Amphitheatre thumb|250px|Trier Cathedral

Do

thumb|Interior of St. Paul (Sankt Paulin) Church

Drink

thumb|Karl Marx birthplace, a Baroque building constructed in 1727 and now containing a museum of Marx and Marxism Trier lies at the heart of a famous wine region. In recent decades, vintners have added reds (especially Spätburgunder) and rosés to the traditional whites (especially Riesling). Apart from the standard wines and beers (Trier - Löwenbräu, Cologne - often Gaffel Kölsch, Bitburg - Bitburger), one should definitely try Viez. Viez is a natural, refreshing apple wine, which many prefer with a splash of orange soda Viez/Limo or with half sparkling mineral water Viez-Sprudel because of the tartness. In October, many enjoy freshly pressed apple juice (süßen Viez) or mixing this unfermented juice with half regular Viez. The drink is traditionally served in a white porcelain or stoneware mug holding 0.4 l.

Stay safe

Trier is a relatively safe city. Standard travel safety applies. The railway station can be intimidating at night.