Things to Do in Koblenz: The 12 Best Attractions & Tips

5 Facts About Koblenz

1. Koblenz has just under 114,000 residents and is the third-largest city in Rhineland-Palatinate, after Mainz in Rheinhessen and Ludwigshafen
2. Several of Koblenz’s landmarks are part of the UNESCO World Heritage
3. The original Latin name for Koblenz is “Confluentes” (German: the confluent ones)
4. In the local Koblenz dialect, the city is called “Kowelenz”
5. Koblenz was founded by the Romans, making it one of the oldest cities in Germany

Where Is Koblenz in Germany?

Koblenz is located in western Germany, in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, roughly halfway between Frankfurt am Main and Cologne. You can reach both cities from Koblenz in just over an hour by car.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley begins near Koblenz.

Koblenz is also one of two major cities on the Moselle.

More precisely, Koblenz marks the northern end of the river, while the city of Trier marks the southern end.

The 12 Best Things to Do in Koblenz

Koblenz is a relatively small city, so a weekend is plenty of time for a city trip. That said, there are loads of beautiful spots and must-sees to check out.

If you have a bit more time, you should definitely explore the attractions in the surrounding area too. The Middle Rhine Valley with its many castles and fortresses is absolutely worth a day trip. And of course there’s also the stunning Moselle Valley, which makes for a great excursion from Koblenz.

Deutsches Eck and Cable Car

When people think of Koblenz, they immediately think of the Deutsches Eck. This is where two rivers meet — Father Rhine and Mother Moselle — creating a seriously incredible view. It’s no wonder that the Deutsches Eck is the top attraction in Koblenz.

The Deutsches Eck didn’t get its name for geographic reasons, though — but for historical ones. In the 13th century, the Knights of the Teutonic Order settled here.

The spot is also popular because of the statue erected there. Kaiser Wilhelm II put it up in honor of his grandfather and predecessor, likewise named Wilhelm I, who had achieved the unification of Germany after three wars.

When you visit the Deutsches Eck, don’t miss a ride on the cable car. From the panoramic gondolas, you’ll have a spectacular view of the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley and Koblenz’s historic center. One of the gondolas even has a glass floor — fair warning: not great if you’re afraid of heights.

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress

Since we’re already talking about the cable car, we have to mention the other standout attraction in Koblenz right away: Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, perched at the upper end of the cable car at an elevation of 118 meters. From the freely accessible viewing platform, you’ll get the best panorama of the Deutsches Eck and all of Koblenz.

It’s the second-largest preserved fortress in Europe and home to, among other things, the Rhineland-Palatinate State Museum. Inside, you can learn everything about the fortress itself and explore a wide variety of exhibitions. A personal favorite of ours: the exhibition on the history of photography.

Not into museums? No worries. The entire grounds around the fortress are perfect for a long walk. For us it’s the ideal outing — especially if you’re visiting Koblenz with kids.

Koblenz Palace

The Electoral Palace of Koblenz is no less impressive than Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, though it’s far more ornate. The complex was built in 1777, shortly before the French Revolution, making it one of the last examples of French early Neoclassicism.

You wouldn’t know it from the beautiful palace’s appearance — thanks to renovations — but it’s been through quite a lot: after the Revolution, ownership changed hands very quickly, and during World War II it was completely gutted by fire.

Unfortunately, you can only visit the palace from the outside, but you can pass through a gateway into the terrace garden. The palace gardens are beautifully laid out with fountains, winding paths, and flowers.

Balduin Bridge

The Balduin Bridge is the oldest surviving bridge in Koblenz. Construction began in the 14th century and took a total of 85 years to complete.

Like Koblenz Palace, the bridge didn’t escape World War II unscathed, but has been fully restored.

The Balduin Bridge spans the Moselle and looks especially beautiful at sunset. From here you also have a great view of the fortress and the Deutsches Eck — it’s the last bridge before the two rivers merge.

Jesuitenplatz and Schängelbrunnen

The Schängelbrunnen on Willi-Hörter-Platz in Koblenz’s old quarter is one of the city’s absolute must-sees.

The fountain owes its name to the local dialect. The name Jean, which many Franco-German children carried at the time, was usually pronounced simply as “Schang” by the people of Koblenz — and that eventually became the diminutive “Schängel.”

The nickname has stuck, by the way: true Koblenzers are still allowed to call themselves a “Schängel” to this day.

One more thing: keep a close eye on the figure on the fountain, because the little bronze Schängel periodically spits a jet of water several feet into the air.

Walk through the archway behind the fountain and you’ll find yourself on Jesuitenplatz, where another Koblenz highlight is waiting. A carillon there regularly plays well-known songs.

Josef-Görres-Platz

Görresplatz sits in the heart of Koblenz’s historic center. There are plenty of bars, cafés, and restaurants here, and especially in summer you can kick back in the warm sun with an iced coffee.

The square actually has a long history — the Romans settled here in antiquity.

The main draw on Görresplatz, though, is the history column in the center. In ten images, it tells the story of Koblenz’s 2,000-year history — you’ll see the French Revolution, the Crusades, the Thirty Years’ War, and the Roman era.

Basilica of St. Castor

Koblenz has several well-known churches, but the oldest is the Basilica of St. Castor — also known simply as the Castorkirche. It was consecrated back in 836 AD, which means it hasn’t just witnessed a lot of history — real history was made here too.

You’ll find the Castorkirche very close to the Deutsches Eck, surrounded by a beautiful garden that’s perfect for a short stroll. With its tall towers and light stone facade, the church looks almost like a small castle from the outside.

There’s also a funny story about the inscription on the Kastor Fountain in front of the church. The fountain was originally intended as a monument to a military campaign against the Russians. When a Russian corps later marched into Koblenz, they added their own twist to the inscription.

Four Towers

There isn’t too much to say about the Four Towers — because above all, they’re simply beautiful to look at!

The Four Towers are a group of buildings in Koblenz’s old town at the intersection of Am Plan, Löhrstraße, Altengraben, and Marktstraße. You’ll immediately recognize the historic buildings by the charming oriel turrets that jut out over the street.

Like so many of Koblenz’s points of interest, the Four Towers have a long history. They were built as far back as the 17th century, and over the years they’ve housed everything from a pharmacy to a police station. Today the towers are protected landmarks.

Stolzenfels Castle

When you see Stolzenfels Castle from a distance, you might almost think it’s not real — more like something out of a fairy tale. With its light facade, its position right on the banks of the Rhine, and the flag flying in the breeze — it’s simply a perfect picture!

Stolzenfels Castle originally dates back to the 13th century, but was almost completely destroyed in the War of the Palatine Succession. It wasn’t until 1823 that the current castle was built from the ruins of the old fortress, entirely in the fashionable Romantic style of the era.

The castle has an adjoining park and some stunning gardens. The vista from here over the Rhine and Koblenz’s historic district is simply fantastic — definitely a must for your city trip.

Eye-Roller at Florinsmarkt

The Eye-Roller at Florinsmarkt is one of the most popular photo subjects in Koblenz.

It’s a figure on the wall of the old market hall that sticks out its tongue every hour and half hour.

Sounds crazy? Even crazier are all the legends that surround the Eye-Roller. According to one, it’s said to be a likeness of Johann Lutter Kobern, who was sentenced to death for ambushing a wealthy merchant.

Even on the way to the scaffold, he reportedly stuck out his tongue and rolled his eyes at the judges — and announced that a monument should be built in his honor. And that if it were, the people of Koblenz would always fare well.

How much truth there is to the story, we may never know. Either way, the Eye-Roller is simply fun and an essential part of any Koblenz visit.

Barrage and Mosellum

Just a few hundred meters before the Moselle flows into the Rhine, there’s a massive barrage passed by many ships every day. To protect wildlife, a fish ladder has also been built alongside the two locks.

You can cross the barrage via a steel footbridge. The view is really great, especially in good weather. The barrage also connects two lovely riverside paths along the Moselle, which are perfect for joggers and walkers alike.

While you’re there, pop into the adjacent Mosellum museum. Here you can learn all about fish migration and take a look at the fish ladder in the basement. It’s a great outing especially for families visiting Koblenz with kids.

River Cruise through Koblenz

At the Deutsches Eck, two of Germany’s largest rivers — the Rhine and the Moselle — converge, so a river cruise is naturally one of the best things to do in Koblenz!

Whether at sunset, with live musical entertainment, or simply a relaxed ride, there are various options for boat tours on the Rhine and Moselle. Whichever you choose, a boat tour is a truly special way to experience the sights of Koblenz.

Here’s an overview of the various operators and tours:

View river cruises through Koblenz

Day Trips Around Koblenz

The old town is quite small and you can tick off the most important Koblenz attractions in a short amount of time. If you’re already there, a day trip in the surrounding area is absolutely worth it. Here are our two favorite excursions near Koblenz.

Cochem on the Moselle

Cochem is the smallest county seat in all of Germany, making it perfect for a short day trip — it’s about a 40-minute drive from Koblenz. The little town is simply picturesque with its winding alleyways, old half-timbered houses, and the backdrop of the Moselle and surrounding hills.

The top highlight in Cochem that you simply have to see is the Reichsburg. Built in the 12th century, it towers 150 meters above the Moselle Valley. From up here you have the best view over Cochem, and the old castle itself makes a great photo subject too.

Other beautiful sights you shouldn’t miss on a stroll through the old quarter include the three town gates (Enderttor, Balduinstor, and Martinstor), the Baroque town hall, and the market square. Since 2016, you can also visit an old Bundesbank bunker where 150 billion Deutsche Marks in reserve currency were once stored.

Eltz Castle

Eltz Castle is pretty much the epitome of a fairy-tale castle. That’s why it’s one of the most famous castles in Germany and absolutely can’t be left off our list. The castle is located about 30 kilometers southwest of Koblenz.

It rises to 320 meters above a side valley of the Moselle. When you look at the steeply dropping rock faces, it’s hardly surprising that the castle was never conquered.

Beautiful hiking trails lead up to Eltz Castle, and once you arrive at the top you have a direct view of the eight towers, which rise up to 35 meters high. A guided tour also lets you explore about 850 years of history up close.

Hotel Tips for Koblenz

Koblenz is a popular travel destination in Germany, and that’s attracted a great range of places to stay — so you’ll find a wide selection of excellent accommodations here.

Here are our favorite hotels in Koblenz.

If you’re already in Koblenz, a detour to other beautiful spots along the Moselle is also well worth it. Check out our article on the most special places to stay on the Moselle too.

22 Truly Special Hotels on the Moselle

Restaurants and Cafés in Koblenz

When it comes to food, Koblenz has some seriously good restaurants and cafés. You can treat yourself to Italian pizza, Greek food, exotic cocktails, great coffee, homemade cake, and a leisurely breakfast.

Café Pfefferminzje

Café Pfefferminzje has been around for many years and is as much a part of Koblenz as the Schängelbrunnen. In summer, you can make yourself comfortable on the terrace and enjoy a cool drink.

Our tip: Hot chocolate with homemade peppermint syrup — yum!
Visit Café Pfefferminzje

Stadtflair

Getting a seat at Stadtflair isn’t easy — which tells you everything about the quality. The coffee is excellent and the cake selection is fantastic.

You can also have breakfast here, enjoy a Flammkuchen, or just relax with a drink in the evening.

Visit Stadtflair

Oscar natural good food & bar

Oscar hasn’t been open long, but has already made a real name for itself. Here you can get everything from bowls to cakes, as long as it’s sustainably made and healthy.

Our tip: A slice of avocado-lime raw cake for €3.60. Yum!

Visit Oscar natural good food & bar

Gecko Lounge

The Gecko Lounge is tucked underground in a vaulted cellar. The atmosphere is perfect for a fun evening with exotic cocktails you won’t find at just any bar.

There’s a smoking lounge, a restaurant, the cocktail bar with lounge area, and an oriental room.

Visit Gecko Lounge

Restaurant Syrtaki

The best Greek food in Koblenz is at Syrtaki. The staff are super friendly and are happy to offer the occasional complimentary ouzo.

Syrtaki is on the pricier side, but it’s definitely worth it. Afterward, a stroll through the beautiful Koblenz Südstadt is a great way to finish the evening.

Visit Syrtaki

Remos

Remos serves the best pizza in all of Koblenz and the surrounding area. Always freshly made, incredibly delicious, and the price is fair for the portion sizes.

But be warned: The pizzas are enormous. If you’re going with someone, it’s worth sharing one and maybe adding a salad or dessert on the side.

You can also get the pizzas half and half with different toppings, so there’s something to suit every taste.

At lunchtime the place is pleasantly quiet; in the evening you should reserve a table. But even when it’s busy, your food arrives quickly.

Visit Remos

Mikado Sushigrill – All-you-can-eat

Mikado makes a great first impression with its fantastic interior — modern and cozy at the same time.

You order via iPad and have two and a half hours to work your way through all the treats on the all-you-can-eat menu.

Visit Mikado Sushigrill

Papa Umi

Another highly recommended spot for fantastic sushi. There’s no all-you-can-eat here — you order à la carte instead. But aside from the classic sushi, the other dishes are really delicious too.

Make sure to reserve a table, otherwise you won’t get a seat.

Visit Papa Umi

Events and Festivals in Koblenz

Koblenz isn’t just great for sightseeing — if you want to add a little something extra to your city trip, make sure you don’t miss these festivals.

Festungsleuchten

In Koblenz, you know it’s summer when Ehrenbreitstein Fortress really lights up. Every year in late April, there’s a light art festival at the fortress where various artists present the most incredible light installations.

You don’t need to pay a separate admission for the festival — just the regular entrance fee for the fortress.

Old Town Festival in Koblenz

Every year in July, the old town festival takes place on the largest squares in Koblenz — and has been doing so for over 40 years!

Multiple stages, stands with all kinds of treats, and plenty of other entertainment await you. It’s a mix of a funfair and a city festival.

Rhine in Flames

Rhine in Flames is a highlight every year. Along the event promenade on the Rhine and Moselle riverbanks around the Deutsches Eck, a diverse summer music festival is celebrated with a total of seven stages.

The FestungsMusikFest also takes place at the fortress, with free admission.

On the second Saturday in August, the grand finale follows with a spectacular fireworks display over the fortress.

Electronic Wine

Electronic Wine — what this event is about is pretty self-explanatory. Over two days in June, you can expect a blend of wine festival and music festival. With great music, you can sample regional wines and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Shopping in Koblenz

Koblenz has various options for an extended shopping spree. We personally prefer strolling along a nice shopping street, but for rainy days we’ve also listed two shopping centers.

Forum Mittelrhein

The Forum has 80 to 90 stores, all of which tend to be mainstream chains. The shopping center was completed in 2012 and is simply massive, especially from the outside.

Right next door is the Forum Confluentes, so you can easily tack on a quick browse after your visit to the museum.

Löhr Center

The Löhr Center was once the main shopping center in all of Koblenz and the surrounding area. Now it shares that reputation with the Forum Mittelrhein.

Here you’ll find well-known staples as well as plenty of good dining options. Visiting the Löhr Center and the Forum Mittelrhein is a great way to spend a rainy day in Koblenz.

Löhrstraße

Löhrstraße — as the name suggests — is adjacent to the Löhr Center. It forms the main shopping street between the Löhr Center and the Forum Mittelrhein, and from here you can also quickly reach other shopping streets.

You’ll find typical stores like H&M, Deichmann, and TK Maxx, as well as smaller specialty shops where you can browse at your leisure.

Kunstgässchen

Kunstgässchen is a real under-the-radar pick — it’s so tucked away that most people just walk right past it. A real shame, because there are some truly unique little boutiques here where you can find everything from South American art to singing bowls.

If you’re in the mood for shopping well off the beaten retail path, this is exactly the right place.

Getting to Koblenz

Koblenz is situated between several of Germany’s largest cities, such as Frankfurt am Main, Cologne, and Düsseldorf. As a result, it’s very well connected and you’ll find plenty of options for getting here.

Traveling by train is our top recommendation. From most major cities you can find a fast and affordable connection, sit back and relax, and enjoy the ride through the beautiful landscape along the Moselle.

If you don’t mind a longer ride, traveling by bus is also worth considering. With Flixbus you’ll find very affordable tickets for almost any route. Whether you take the train or the bus, your stop is Koblenz Central Station (Koblenzer Hauptbahnhof). From there it’s only about 15 minutes on foot or by regional train to the old town.

You can also travel by car, of course. Super handy: the ADAC Parkinfo App lets you quickly check where parking spots are still available in Koblenz.

Book train tickets

Book bus tickets

Getting Around Koblenz

The old town in Koblenz isn’t too large, and most of the best things to do in Koblenz are easily reachable on foot. If you do need to travel a bit further, you have several options.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Koblenz consists only of buses — there are no trams or subway lines. Buses can take a bit longer when traffic is heavy, but they’re generally quite reliable.

If you just need to get from point A to point B, a single ticket starting at **€2** is usually the best bet. You can buy your ticket directly from the bus driver or at one of the ticket machines at the stops.

VRM timetable information

Koblenz Card

For tourists, there’s also the Koblenz Card — a typical city visitor pass that can save you a few euros.

The card is valid for **24 hours** and includes a ticket for all buses as well as many discounts on museum admission and a free guided tour of Koblenz’s old town. The card costs **€9.80** per person and can be purchased at the tourist information office in the Forum Confluentes.

Getting Around Koblenz by Car

If you want more flexibility, a car is of course ideal. There are plenty of parking garages in downtown Koblenz.

Our tip: The most affordable option is the parking garage at the Forum Mittelrhein: parking here costs €0.60 per 30 minutes and €24 per day.

Outside of the parking garages, finding a spot can be a bit of a chore, as in many larger cities. Current availability is shown directly by the dynamic parking guidance system.

Travel Guides for Koblenz

Want even more information for your trip to Koblenz? Or do you simply prefer having a printed book in hand when you travel?

Here are our three favorite travel guides about Koblenz.

The Reise Know-How books are certainly among the classics of travel guides. Across 144 pages, you’ll find all the important sights in Koblenz, beautiful spots, and restaurant recommendations that make a short trip to Koblenz special — clearly organized and up to date.

Reise Know-How CityTrip Koblenz

The travel guides in this series take you to attractions in Koblenz well off the usual tourist trail — specifically to 111 extraordinary places. They’re entertainingly written and packed with fascinating information and truly beautiful photos.

111 Places in Koblenz That You Must Not Miss

If you’re planning to combine your trip to Koblenz with a stop in other towns of the Moselle region, this travel guide is a great choice. Whether outdoor excursions or urban exploration, you’ll find a little of everything here.

Favorite Places from Koblenz to the Rhine and Moselle