Many historical sites of Trier have been declared as a World Heritage by UNESCO in 1986. Many tourists come and see this oldest city of Germany and its historical buildings and ruins of Roman times. Before COVID-19, two million tourists have visited this beautiful city each year.

Here are my top 10 places;

1. Porta Nigra

The name Porta Nigra indicates the darkened colours of its stone; Porta means "gate" and Nigra refers to the black colour. The Porta Nigra is the largest city gate north of Alps. During Roman times, this gate was a part of a system of four city gates such as the Porta Alba (White Gate) in the east, the Porta Media (Middle Gate) in the south and the Porta Inclyta (Famous Gate) in the west, next to Roman bridge across the Moselle. Porta Nigra is the only one which still remains today and on the list of a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Some parts of Porta Nigra had been converted into church. But in 1804, Napoleon Bonaparte visited Trier and ordered to be converted it back to Roman form. The today's appearance of Porta Nigra goes back almost unchanged to the reconstruction ordered by N. Bonaparte.

You can enter the Porta Nigra, including the its upper floors. You will love the view of the city from there. Also, there is a special price for students, do not forget to show your student card :)

2. Aula Palatina

Aula Palatina, also known as The Basilica of Constantine, is a Roman palace basilica. It was built by the emperor Constantine I at the beginning of the 4th century. It is on the list of a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

During the Middle Ages, it was used as the residence for the bishop of Trier. Later in 1856, it became a protestan church. In World War II, enemy forces heavily damaged the building by air raid. After the war, it was repaired but not the historical inner decorations. You can see the brick walls from inside.

3. Electoral Palace

This palace was the residence of the Archbishops and Electors of Trier from the 16th century to the late 18th century. It is attached to Aula Palatina.

I love the mix of architectural styles such as Rococo, Baroque and Renaissance. Also, the garden of the palace is so peaceful which is open to public. The sculptures/statues of the garden were made by Ferdinand Dietz.

I found out that this building now houses federal government and hosts concerts like classical music.

4. Cathedral of Trier, Trierer Dom

When I came to Trier as an Erasmus student, I participated in an orientation program which included city tour as well. The first spot was this huge Roman catholic church which is the oldest church in Germany. Cathedral of Trier is on the list of a World Heritage by UNESCO, as a part of Roman monuments, Cathedral of St. Peter and Church of Our Lady in Trier.

You will notice the Baroque and Gothic elements of the cathedral when you see it. It feels like I'm witnessing the history while sightseeing Trier.

5. Mariensaule

This place is also among my firsts in Trier. In my second day, I went to Mariensaule. I had to walk a lot and when I arrived the Mariensaule, I was so tired... 'till seeing the amazing view of Trier. It was definitely worth all these effort.

There is a huge sculpture of the statue of Mary on the top and beautiful view of the Moselle and city below.

6. Trier Imperial Baths and Barbara Baths

Trier Imperial Baths, known as the Kaiserthermen, is a large Roman bath complex which was constructed in the 4th century.

Barbara Baths, Barbarathermen, is also a Roman bath which was constructed in the 2nd century. It is older than the Kaiserthermen and largest Roman bath north of Alps.

Both baths are on the list of a World Heritage by UNESCO, as a part of Roman monuments.

7. The Trier Amphitheater

It is a Roman Amphitheater in Trier, and as you can guess that it is also on the list of a World Heritage by UNESCO.

When you think of Roman times, what comes to mind first? Gladiator battles...

In this Amphitheater, in the dates of second half of 3rd century, gladiator battles, executions and animal fights were witnessed. It is very close to Trier Imperial Baths.

8. Karl Marx's House

Karl Marx who is the father of communism and modern socialism, was born in Trier in 1818. His house were used for different purposes like a printing house. Later, on May 5th, 1947, the building was opened as a museum of Karl Marx's life and works. Almost 32,000 visitors come to the Karl Marx's House every year.

9. Hauptmarkt, the main square of Trier

With the colorful and historical buildings, the Hauptmarkt is one of favourite places. It has beautiful cafes, restaurants and many stores that you can go shopping.

The Christmas market is set up in this square which is so magical. Also, it hosts some festivals like Altstadt festival.

10. Basilica of St. Paulinus

The basilica, constructed between 1734 and 1753, is a Baroque church. I really love the interior design of this church which was designed by Johann Balthasar Neumann.

It has also a magnificent painted ceiling by Christoph Thomas Scheffler. There are some Rococo elements in the building as well.

Old settlements, ancient Roman theater, baths, churches, the palace, the train station, Karl Marx's house, University of Trier, cafes and of course Porta Nigra are places to be seen. There are also many nightclubs such as Metropolis for those who want to dance and have fun at night.