A few years ago, I traveled through the southern part of Germany from Frankfurt to Munich, visiting many small towns and cities along the way. Armed with a backpack, a camera, and a 49 euro Deutsche Bahn train pass this year, I embarked on another adventure, this time delving into several cities along the Rhine River and the northern regions of this picturesque country. Due to inclement weather conditions, I spent one day in Dallas before flying to Frankfurt. The first stop on my itinerary was Mainz, which offers a charming blend of historic landmarks, cultural treasures, and scenic landscapes. (42 photos)