#Come2Germany: Rüdesheim am Rhein
One of the many things I love about Europe is how easy and convenient it is to commute via trains.
Although I did miss one train throughout my #Come2Germany trip, I still consider it a success- and goes to show you that if I can get around from city to city, virtually anyone can. I'm the most disoriented person there is and still managed to safely get to my next destination.
The storybook city of Rüdesheim.
All you need is a day or two to fully enjoy this pictutuersqe town. I only spent half a day in Rüdesheim and still managed to do so much without feeling rushed.
The first stop of the day was the Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet- an exhibition that houses one of the most extensive collections of self-playing instruments in the world. The museum features a range of exhibits from fragile music boxes to the gigantic piano-orchestrion.
I've never been to anything like it. Such a quirky and different experience.
During the planning stages of my #Come2Germany trip, I came across a picture on Germany Tourism's Facebook page that blew me away. I immediately added the location to my wish list.
And what's so special about this hotel?
If you look closely, at the bottom of the building, there are six unique guest rooms made from wine barrels.
Yes, wine barrels!
When these old wine barrels couldn't be used for wine production anymore, someone came up with the innovative idea of turning them into hotel rooms.
Inside each barrel are two small beds, living area and a bathroom.
If staying in one of the wine barrel rooms is on your bucket list, make sure you book months in advanced. Due to the limited quantity, availability is not always open.
One of the main attractions in Rüdesheim is taking the cable car, Seilbahn Rüdesheim, to see the Niederwald Monument. The monument is only a small part of the experience. The peaceful and scenic journey up the hill offers the best views of the vineyards, town and the Rhine River.
Absolutely breathtaking!
Walking up to the Niederwald Monument boasts incredible views as well.
The Niederwald monument is located in the Niederwald park, overlooking the scenic Rhine valley. The monument was created between 1870 and 1880 as a commemoration of the historic unification of the German Empire after the Franco-Prussian war came to an end.
The central part of the Niederwalddenkmal depicts the figures of Germania and William I. With its location on the edge of the forest and with scenic vineyards to its southern and western sides, a walk up to the historic monument provides beautiful panoramic views.
After sightseeing for a few hours, it was time to relax and enjoy a nice chilled drink.
My drink of choice: Riesling!
Riesling originated in the Rhine region of Germany and is one of my favorite types of wine.
Rüdesheim am Rhein is one of Germany’s most scenic wine regions. Next to its extensive vineyards, the city’s rich cultural and historic background make it one of the most intriguing places to visit in the country.
After enjoying my glass(es) of wine, I walked around for a bit and stumbled upon a sunset cruise.
I had a couple of hours to spare before my train departure and the cruise seemed like a fun way to pass the time.
As I stepped off the cruise, I was greeted by the most beautiful sunset I've ever seen. I quickly grabbed my camera out of my purse and snapped away. I didn't want to miss capturing this natural masterpiece.
After a few pictures, I put the camera away and just admired the sun until it disappeared below the mountains.
I couldn't have asked for a better way to end my day in Rüdesheim.