Koblenz is a city in western Germany that’s located at the intersection of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Founded as a military post by the Romans in the 1st century B.C., Koblenz was, over the centuries, occupied by a succession of powers who vied for control of this strategic location. Sadly, the city suffered heavily during WWII but it was rebuilt, and today, Koblenz, with its beautiful setting, historic landmarks and wine experiences, is a delight to visit. Its attraction as a tourist destination grew when in 2002, UNESCO declared the Rhine Gorge a World Heritage Site. Koblenz is the northern gateway to the gorge, that’s famous for its dramatic landscapes, castles and picturesque villages. There are many interesting things to do in Koblenz, as well as in the areas surrounding the city, making a visit more than worthwhile.
Panoramic view of Koblenz from the Ehrenbreitstein fortress
I visited Koblenz as part of a rail tour along the Rhine and Moselle rivers in western Germany to visit four of the 17 heritage cities known as Historic Highlights of Germany. Like the other heritage cities, Koblenz is a university town with a rich historical legacy and a vibrant cultural and culinary scene. Another similarity is that Koblenz has a compact old town that’s perfect to explore on foot. Furthermore, the attractions outside the city centre are easily accessible by public transport. Here are ten things to do in and around Koblenz (including a map with pins of the places mentioned below):
1. Wander around the old town
The old town suffered extensive damage during WWII but many buildings of historical importance were restored. In the old town, you’ll find impressive historic monuments and a mix of architectural styles, lively squares and charming streets. The main sights in the old town include:
Liebfrauenkirche (Church of Our Lady)
This imposing church has its origins in the 5th century A.D., though the current structure dates from the 17th century. It features a striking mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles.
Church of Our Lady
Vier Türme (Four Towers)
The intersection of Marktstrasse and Altengraben is marked by four 17th century buildings with beautifully decorated bay windows.
Four Towers 
Street view
Kunstgässchen alley
A lovely medieval alley filled with little stores and cosy cafés.
Kunstgässchen alley
Brunnen Am Plan
A lively square lined by historic buildings, cafés and restaurants.
History column
There are numerous fountains across the old town but this is one of the most interesting ones. Located in Josef-Görres-Platz, the History Column illustrates the history of Koblenz across the ages.
History Column
I especially enjoyed looking out for local craft, fashion and food/wine stores, of which there are numerous scattered across the old town.
Secret Chocolate Lab 
Frl. Diehl caramel shop
2. Schängelbrunnen fountain
As I strolled around the old town, I stumbled upon the Schängelbrunnen fountain in the courtyard of the Rathaus (City Hall). Dedicated to the Koblenz poet Josef Cornelius, who wrote the lyrics to the well-known Schängellied, the anthem of the people of Koblenz, it’s an intriguing fountain as it features a boy spitting.
Schängelbrunnen
I read up about the fountain and learned that it represents the Schängelchen, the children of French occupiers and local Germans in the 19th century. “Why is he spitting?”, you might ask. Perhaps a cheeky way of symbolising the townsfolk’s disdain for authority? The fact that the boy is spitting at the town hall gave me that idea. Haha! The official reading is that it represents the fun-loving and mischievous nature of native Koblenzers.
3. Stroll along the Rhine promenade
During your visit, don’t miss a stroll along the Rhine promenade to enjoy the scenery. Along the way, you’ll pass numerous historical sights, serene parks and places to stop for a refreshment or meal. Don’t miss these sights:
Rhine promenade
Deutsches Eck
At the very tip of the promenade, at the point where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet, stands the imposing 19th century Deutsches Eck monument, with a massive statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I.
Deutsches Eck
Prussian government building
This early-20th century building in neo-Romanesque style once housed the administration of the Prussian government.
Prussian government building
Electoral Palace
The Electoral Palace was once the residence of the Electors of Trier. Built in the Classical style, it’s currently being renovated but it’s possible to enjoy the ornamental gardens. While there, look out for the statue of Father Rhine and Mother Moselle.
The Electoral Palace is currently being renovated but the gardens are accessible. 
Father Rhine and Mother Moselle
4. Visit the Basilica of St. Kastor
Just off the Rhine promenade is the 9th century Basilica of St. Kastor. This beautiful church, Koblenz’s oldest church, is a wonderful example of Romanesque architecture.
Basilica of St. Kastor
5. Hop on the cable-car to Ehrenbreitstein fortress
Just behind the Basilica of St. Kastor is a cable-car station. From here, visitors are whisked up and across the Rhine to the Ehrenbreitstein fortress. Built by the Prussians in the 19th century to guard the Middle Rhine region, it’s one of the largest fortresses in Europe.
Take the cable-car to Ehrenbreitstein fortress.
The cable-car ride provides panoramic views of Koblenz and the Rhine and Moselle rivers. I recommend walking around the fortress to see its impressive walls, enjoy the views and visit the Archaeological Museum.
Inside Ehrenbreitstein fortress.
6. Go on a Rhine river cruise
No trip to Koblenz would be complete without a Rhine river cruise. The Rhine gorge, just south of Koblenz, is an area of steep slopes topped with castles and fortresses, vineyards and picturesque villages. The cruises from Koblenz typically last about 2 hours and the scenery is simply stunning!
Rhine Gorge scenery
7. Enjoy a wine experience
Located in the heart of the Middle Rhine wine region, and in close proximity to the Moselle wine region, Koblenz boasts a good variety of wine experiences. Visitors can hike through the vineyards and stop for a wine-tasting, go on cellar tours or visit a family-owned winery.
There are many family-owned wineries in the vicinity of Koblenz. One I can recommend for a wine-tasting visit is Weingut Göhlen (map). Located across the Rhine river behind the Ehrenbreitstein fortress, this winery has gorgeous gardens, delicious wines and absolutely lovely owners. Try the gorgeous Riesling, Bacchus and Ehrenbreitsteiner (a Spätlese dedicated to the nearby fortress).
The tasting room at Weingut Göhlen
To get there, take bus no.9 from the city centre to Mühlental and walk the rest of the way to the winery. I recommend booking a wine-tasting in advance (possible via the tourist office).
8. Visit Zentralplatz
Just outside the old town, at Zentralplatz, you’ll find a modern building which houses the tourist office, library and Middle Rhine Museum. Step inside to see the spectacular architecture of the library and visit the tourist office for information and tours.
Zentralplatz modern architecture
In the lounge area, there’s an interactive TV screen that illustrates the history of Koblenz in images and videos. The tourist office also has a shop that sells a big variety of local products.
Tourist office shop
9. Indulge in local cuisine and wines
There’s a great variety of restaurants and wine bars (weinstube) where you can taste the local cuisine and wines. For a terrific meal in a cosy setting, I recommend Wirtshaus Alt Koblenz at Brunnen Am Plan square.
Delicious food at Wirtshaus Alt Koblenz
To enjoy some of the local wines, head to Entrée Weinbar or the atmospheric Weinhaus Hubertus.
Weinhaus Hubertus
10. Visit Schloss Stolzenfels
This gorgeous castle, built by the Prussians in the 19th century, is a prime example of Rhine Romanticism. Located about 7km from Koblenz, it served as the summer residence of King Friedrich Wilhelm IV and his family.
Stolzenfels Castle
To get there, take bus no. 670 from Koblenz Hauptbahnhof (central station) to Koblenz Schlossweg. From there, it’s a 20-minute uphill walk to the castle through the beautiful gardens of Peter Joseph Lenné, the chief gardener of the Prussian royals. It’s also possible to reach the castle by car, boat or bicycle. Check at the tourist office in Koblenz for castle tours and tickets.
Two-day Koblenz itinerary
Koblenz can easily be covered in two days. I stayed at the comfortable Four Points Flex by Sheraton Koblenz (located at the central station, a 20-minute walk to the old town) but there are many other accommodations to choose from. Here’s a suggested 2-day Koblenz itinerary:
Day 1:
- Morning: explore the Old Town and Rhine Promenade
- Afternoon: take the cable-car to Ehrenbreitstein fortress
- Evening: wine at a weinstube followed by dinner
Day 2:
- Morning: go on a Rhine river cruise (optional: combine with a visit to Stolzenfels castle)
- Afternoon: wine-tasting at a local winery
How to get to Koblenz
Koblenz is well-connected by road and rail. There are frequent direct train services from major German cities such as Cologne, Frankfurt and Munich. Koblenz is also a popular stop for Rhine River cruise ships.
Note: my visit to Koblenz was made possible in partnership with Historic Highlights of Germany. As always, all views expressed above are mine, and mine only.