Summary
Welcome to Boppard
Boppard. It is a fun one to say, right? Bo-part. Nestled in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, this area is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts rich history.
Boppard is known as a designated Fremdenverkehrsort (state-recognized tourism resort) and is celebrated for its wine-growing heritage. The Romans first introduced wine cultivation here in 643, and today, over 75 hectares of vineyards flourish in this dynamic wine center of the Middle Rhine.
Tourists can enjoy walking tours led by the local tourism board in various languages from mid-April to mid-October, while also using our guide to explore the top attractions and experience the essence of Boppard.
How to Get to Boppard
Boppard is easily accessible by car, train, or boat.
By car
Boppard is conveniently located just 10 km from the main A60 motorway and is also reachable via the scenic B9 route that stretches along the Rhine River.
By train
Boppard Hauptbahnhof is positioned between Mainz and Cologne on one of Germany’s most picturesque train lines.
By boat
Experience the beauty of the Rhine River with a ride on the Köln-Düsseldorfer Rheinschiffahrt (KD) ferry service, which has stops in Boppard. Rhine River cruises are a well-loved way to enjoy the area, with many routes connecting visitors to the rich landscapes of the Netherlands, France, Germany, Liechtenstein, Austria, and Switzerland.
Follow the Loop in the River
Located in Boppard, the famous loop in the Rhine River, known as Bopparder Hamm, is an incredible sight. The term Hamm derives from the Latin word hamus, which means “hook” — aptly describing its unique curve.
If you’re looking for a fantastic view, trek up to Vierseenblick (Four-Lake View) where the river appears as four distinct lakes. Hikers can reach the viewpoint by foot or take a chairlift (available April to September) for a charming 20-minute ride over lush vineyards and forests. You can also catch glimpses of notable structures such as Burg Liebenstein and Burg Sterrenberg from this vantage point. Alternatively, consider cruising along the Rhine for a captivating perspective of this UNESCO acknowledged site.
After a day of exploration, take a serene stroll along the Rheinallee, a pedestrian promenade hugged by boat docks, stylish cafés, and cozy wine taverns.
Get Medieval at the Castle
Address: Burg Boppard, Rheinallee 31, 56154 Boppard, Germany
Boppard’s Electoral Castle, known locally as Alte Burg or “Old Castle,” stands as one of the few that has withstood the test of time along the Middle Rhine. Built in the 13th century, this castle is an architectural gem positioned right by the water in the heart of the town.
Most castles were historically built high upon hills, but Boppard’s unique location allowed it to enforce tolls on the boats and goods that navigated the Rhine, leveraging its strategic position. As history evolved, the castle underwent numerous renovations, serving various purposes from a hospital during the French Revolution to a police station in the 20th century. Following extensive restorations from 2009 to 2015, it now houses both the Thonet Museum, named after the notable Boppard craftsman Michael Thonet, and the Boppard Museum.
Go Wine Wandering
Address: Zelkesgasse 12, 56154 Boppard, Germany
Phone: +49 6742 2371
Immerse yourself in the alluring world of Boppard’s vineyards, where the art of winemaking was embraced by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago. With a south-facing inclination, the geography is perfect for thriving vineyards.
The vineyards in Boppard Hamm, the largest in the Middle Rhine, are divided into distinct regions, such as Elfenlay, Weingrube, and Mandelstein. Visitors can stroll through these fields and sample a variety of wines, from riesling to müller-thurgau to pinot noir, all produced locally. For those looking for a guided experience, Boppard Tourism offers vineyard tours with tastings.
In Boppard, indulge in local wines at charming wine taverns, such as the historic Weinhaus Heilig Grab, which dates back over 200 years. If you’re visiting in late September, join the renowned wine festival celebrating this year’s harvest.
Admire Roman Ruins
Address: Kirchgasse 5, 56154 Boppard, Germany
The architectural legacy of the Romans is not only evident in the wine production but also in the preserved ruins throughout the city. The best example is the Roman Fortress, known as Römer-Kastell or Römerpark, located just south of Marktplatz. This site showcases original 4th-century Roman architecture.
With 28 semi-circular towers and walls standing up to nine meters high, the fortress is an impressive representation of Roman engineering, despite being reduced in size from its heyday. Visitors can engage with a wall panel that illustrates the ancient Roman town of Bodobrica, giving insight into the history of this remarkable site.
Walk the Town Wall
Boppard has diligently retained substantial medieval elements amidst modernization. The town walls are one such feature, still standing in various locations, including the transformed Ebertor town gate, which has now become a hotel.
These ancient walls once acted as a barrier between the Altstadt (old town) and newer expansions towards the west (Niederstadt or “Lower Town”) and east (Oberstadt or “Upper Town”). Additionally, structures like the Säuerlingsturm tower have been relocated to facilitate modern development.
Get Holy at the Church
Address: Rheinallee 44, 56154 Boppard, Germany
Phone: +49 6742 2315
The Church of St. Severus is a stunning example of late Romanesque architecture. This 13th-century structure was built on historically significant grounds, where Roman military baths and an earlier 6th-century church once stood. Its tall towers make a distinctive mark on the city skyline.
Since the 1960s, numerous restorations have enhanced the church’s condition, prominently featuring a grand cross with a crowned Jesus from 1220. The church’s organ has been refurbished, and the interior was beautifully restored as recently as 2010. Uniquely, the nearby market square was lowered for improved accessibility.
The church is hard to miss, as its five bells ring out across the town at 10:00 and 12:00 each day. St. Severus is not just a church but a registered monument that was bestowed the title of Basilica minor by Pope Francis in February 2015.
Dine with the Locals
Address: u. Marktstraße 7, 56154 Boppard, Germany
Phone: +49 6742 4848
Consistently regarded as the top restaurant in Boppard, Severus Stube (Untere Marktstraße 7) welcomes a lively local crowd to enjoy authentic local German cuisine. Featuring dishes like Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) and Kasseler (smoked pork), guests can savor these meals alongside local wines at reasonable prices.
Situated in a half-timbered building, the restaurant boasts outdoor seating along the narrow cobblestone streets during summer months, providing a charming ambiance.
Given its popularity with both locals and travelers, reservations are advised. While some knowledge of German is appreciated, the staff is typically fluent in English, and menus in English are available.
Ride the Train Up, Up, Up
The Hunsrückbahn is a scenic train that travels through the picturesque landscapes of valleys and forested areas from Boppard to Emmelshausen. This railway is among the steepest in Germany, with a breathtaking six-kilometer ascent from Boppard Hauptbahnhof to Boppard-Buchholz that climbs 336 meters. The picturesque stretch of track is recognized as a protected monument.
For those seeking a more active adventure, you can also hike the less pleasant sections towards Buchholz or Emmelshausen, and then leisurely descend back to Boppard. Relevant hiking maps and information (available in German) can be accessed via this brochure.
Tickets are obtainable at the train station or directly on the train, with prices beginning around 1.85 euros; however, pricing may vary based on the distance traveled. Though Rhenus Veniro operates this line, tickets for Rhineland-Palatinate and Schönes-Wochenende-Tickets (various discounts) are also valid on the Hunsrückbahn.
