Step into the workshop where the modern world began — a private, hands-on session at the Gutenberg Museum, printing with a replica Gutenberg press alongside a specialist curator.
What to expect
A specialist guide escorts your group through the museum's crown jewels, including original Gutenberg Bibles displayed in a darkened vault, before taking you behind the velvet rope into the working print workshop. Under expert instruction, you operate a replica 15th-century press, inking the type and pulling the lever — feeling exactly what Gutenberg's craftsmen felt in 1450. The curator contextualises the invention with wit and scholarship, making this as intellectually thrilling as it is theatrical. You leave with a freshly printed keepsake and a story for the dinner table.
Good to know
The museum is a 10-minute walk from the Rhine embankment. Pre-arrange the private workshop experience by emailing the museum directly — standard admission is walk-in, but bespoke sessions require advance booking. Allow 2 hours for the full experience.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Mainz — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.