Summary
In the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley, Koblenz is a 2,000-year-old city situated where the Moselle converges with the Rhine. This location is historically significant, being the site where the Teutonic Order established one of its earliest commanderies in the 13th century, and where the vast Frankish Empire was divided in the 800s.
To commemorate that history, a prominent statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I was unveiled at the end of the 19th century. An epic journey can be undertaken upriver on the Rhine Castles Trail, where castles and palaces harmoniously coexist with vineyards along the steep valley slopes.
For those preferring local experiences, a ride on the Koblenz cable car is highly recommended, as it transports visitors across the river to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress located on the opposite bank.
Here are the top attractions in Koblenz:
1. Deutsches Eck
The convergence of the Moselle and Rhine Rivers holds significant historical importance in Germany, as it was here that one of the Teutonic Order’s early commanderies was established.
The Teutonic Knights arrived at this location in 1216 at the request of Archbishop Theoderich von Wied of Trier.
In 1897, a large equestrian statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I was erected at this site, nine years after the emperor’s passing.
This original monument was rich with Imperialist symbolism and intended to evoke German nationalistic pride.
However, the 37-meter monument was destroyed during the bombings of World War II, and due to its controversial nature, reconstruction did not occur until 1993, following extensive discussions.
For many years, the empty pedestal served as a symbol of German unity.
2. Koblenz Cable Car
Upon arrival in Koblenz, a decision to take a trip on the cable car is among the first considerations.
This transport system carries visitors across the Rhine to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.
Spanning nearly 900 meters, the system is equipped with 18 gondolas, and its capacity to transport over 7,500 passengers per hour exceeds that of any other cable car globally.
The crossing offers a unique aerial perspective of the World Heritage landscapes of the Upper Middle Rhine and the mighty river itself.
Views are particularly stunning from car 17, which features a glass floor, though this option may not be suitable for individuals with acrophobia. Sunset rides provide especially beautiful lighting conditions.
3. Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
Perched atop a spur 118 meters above the right bank of the Rhine, a fortress has defended this location since the 11th century.
Until the early 1800s, this complex was frequently besieged, dismantled, and exchanged among various powers, including the French, the Archbishop Electors of Trier, the princes of Saxony, and the Prussians, over several centuries.
Following the French withdrawal in 1801, they detonated the stronghold to prevent it from falling into Prussian hands, given its proximity to what was then French territory across the river.
The current fortress was finalized by the Prussians in 1828 and stands as the second largest fortress in Europe.
4. Landesmuseum Koblenz
Located within the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, the Landesmuseum presents a diverse array of exhibitions focused on the cultural history, viticulture, photography, and archaeology of Rhineland-Palatinate.
A highlight includes the Greif (Griffin) cannon, which measures over five meters in length, making it one of the largest cannons cast in the 16th century.
The photography exhibition spotlights works by early 20th-century photographer Jacob Hilsdorf, known for his portraits of notable figures ranging from nobility to the artist Max Liebermann.
Moreover, the museum continually features a variety of temporary exhibitions, covering topics from renowned vintners to emerging German photographers, alongside artifacts like coin hoards unearthed during fortress excavations.
5. Schängelbrunnen
The Schängelbrunnen, located in Willi-Hörter-Platz within the town hall’s courtyard, is a beloved fountain framed by Renaissance and Baroque Jesuit architecture.
Noted for depicting a boy who playfully spits water into the basin, it was designed by sculptor Carl Burger in 1940 and possesses a nuanced meaning related to the city’s anthem, the Schängellied, written in 1914, which details the mischievous adventures of the city’s boys.
The term “Schängel” has French origins: Boys born in Koblenz during the city’s French occupation were referred to as “Jean,” evolving into “Schang” in the local dialect.
The fountain’s Schängel character embodies the endearing roguishness appreciated in this region of Germany.
6. Schloss Stolzenfels
A brief journey upstream leads to one of the most celebrated castles in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley.
Schloss Stolzenfels has origins dating back to the 14th century, yet it was destroyed by the French during the Nine Years’ War at the close of the 17th century.
The ruins remained neglected until the land was bestowed to Frederick William IV of Prussia in 1823, who later reconstructed the castle in an enchanting Gothic Revival style reflective of Romantic ideals of the time.
Reaching the castle involves a delightful trek through gardens along a winding path.
Upon arrival at this picturesque structure, visitors are afforded guided tours that delve into the intricacies of 19th-century society and etiquette, as well as showcasing exquisite wood carvings, all while adhering to the request to wear slippers to protect the fine parquet floors.
7. Basilica of St. Castor
In close proximity to the Deutsches Eck are the pointed Romanesque towers of Koblenz’s oldest church.
Once associated with a monastery, the Basilica belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the significant historical events that have unfolded since its establishment 1,200 years ago.
Notably, it was here in 842 that 110 representatives convened to negotiate the division of the Frankish Empire.
The majority of the architectural features date from the 12th century, and while the church did sustain damage during World War II, the essential structures were successfully restored.
The stunning star vaults that grace the choir and nave remained untouched during the assault.
8. Rhine Castles Trail
Between Koblenz and the town of Bingen, located less than an hour to the south, more than 20 castles line the riverbanks.
The Rhine Castles Trail passes through three of Germany’s primary wine-producing regions.
This landscape, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, presents an idyllic setting for hiking enthusiasts.
The classic hiking trail ascends along the valley walls, meandering through vineyards and offering stunning vistas of the Rhine at every turn.
Numerous attractions await on this journey, with a mandatory stop in the charming Medieval town of Boppard, as well as time dedicated to Oberwesel, where the formidable Schönburg castle overlooks the Rhine.
9. Electoral Palace
The ceremonious Neoclassical Electoral Palace was constructed by Prince Clemens Wenceslaus of Saxony on the left bank of the Rhine between 1777 and 1793. He was the uncle of French King Louis XVI and was compelled to depart from Koblenz following the French Revolution and the War of the First Coalition, during which the city came under French occupation.
Post-1815, the palace became the property of Prussia and was frequented by Prussian royalty for the ensuing century.
Although it suffered extensive damage in 1944 due to bombings, the structure was swiftly rebuilt, with its façade restored to align with the original 18th-century designs.
Currently, visitors can enjoy the elegant Grand Café, featuring herringbone flooring, while also taking in views of the river from the terraced gardens and observing the monument dedicated to Father Rhine and Mother Moselle.
10. Jesuitenplatz
This square, situated in the heart of Koblenz’s Altstadt, derives its name from the Jesuit order, which was active in Koblenz for nearly 200 years until their expulsion in 1773. The southern border of the square features the Baroque former Jesuit college, constructed at the close of the 17th century, which now serves as the town hall.
Dominating the square are its domed towers, along with a grand portal passageway.
In the southeast corner stands the Jesuit church, built in the 1610s.
Visitors should take a moment to admire the tympanum in the Renaissance portal, showcasing sculptures of St. John the Baptist alongside Ignatius of Loyola and Francis Xavier, the founder and co-founder of the Jesuits.
11. Liebfrauenkirche
A church has existed at this site for 1,600 years, traceable to the conversion of a hall from the reign of Roman Emperor Valentinian by early Christians.
The Liebfrauenkirche is recognizable by its Baroque onion dome towers, which were added in the late 17th century following bombardment by Louis XIV’s troops in 1688. Visitors should take note of the figure of Mary and Child above, as well as the Late Gothic rib vaults found in both the nave and choir, along with the groin vault in the gallery.
Noteworthy components include a 17th-century altar dedicated to St. Nicholas, a 14th-century wooden crucifix, and tombs belonging to local noble families dating back to the Renaissance.
12. Wehrtechnische Studiensammlung
Located in the Langemarck-Kaserne, built in the 1910s, is one of Germany’s largest exhibitions on military technology.
This collection is organized by the government to facilitate training for soldiers and engineers, while also being accessible to the general public.
For those interested in military hardware, this exhibition is a treasure trove: over five floors display a vast array of equipment, beginning with aircraft (notably the Lockheed F-104), tanks (Leopard I and II), helicopters, and heavy artillery on the ground floor, and ascending to lighter displays such as tactical uniforms, firearms, ammunition, and communication technologies.
13. Am Plan
Am Plan is one of Koblenz’s distinguished squares, redesigned in the 1770s at the behest of Clemens Wenceslaus of Saxony.
The square’s historical value is particularly notable in its Baroque architecture along the northern side.
Keep an eye out for the commandant headquarters beneath the towers of the Liebfrauenkirche, which served as the seat of the fortress commander, later transformed into a fire station through much of the 20th century.
Within the square, a plaque commemorates Henriette Sontag, marking the birthplace of one of the 19th century’s renowned sopranos.
The fountain in the square, dating back to 1806, was originally supplied by the aqueduct from the Electoral Palace’s Metternich estate.
14. Kastorbrunnen
Situated outside the Basilica of St. Castor, the Kastorbrunnen is a French-era fountain built in 1812. This fountain is particularly intriguing due to an inscription by French prefect Jules Doazan, which prematurely lauded Napoleon’s conquest of Russia, a campaign that ultimately culminated in disaster.
In 1814, following the defeat of the French army, the Russian commandant in Koblenz humorously added an inscription beneath Doazan’s original message, stating: “Vue et approuvé par nous, le Commandant Russe de la Ville de Coblence” (seen and approved by the Russian commandant of the city of Koblenz).
15. DB Museum Koblenz
The DB Museum Koblenz, a branch of the Deutsche Bahn Museum in Nuremberg, opened in a century-old wagon repair facility in 2001. Visitors on Saturdays can witness vintage locomotives and carriages, with over 20 available for viewing.
While the exhibit includes a small number of steam engines, the museum’s primary focus is on electric rail travel, featuring the prestigious Trans Europe Express, which is available for ride. This collection of preserved train cars exemplifies the luxury rail journeys of the early to mid-20th century.
Additionally, visitors can explore a cross-section of an engine, models, seating arrangements, and historical photographs and posters displayed within the various showcases of the museum.
