Magical History of Koblenz

Koblenz is one of the oldest and historic cities in Germany, located on the river Rhine. It certainly is a must-see place and we decided it would be the perfect spot to catch up with family as they were on one of the passenger cruises and Koblenz was a stopover for them. 

We planned to arrive early and spend the full day sightseeing. The choices for things to see and do were extensive and when travelling/sightseeing with kids you need to prepare carefully. 

So we made sure we added in a couple of spots for the kids to break free and run around.

We also decided that if we missed anything then we will do it the next morning before we left. 

Many cruise boats sailing up and down the Rhine stop here as there are many palaces, churches and castles to visit.

We opted to stay central, as close to the old town as affordable and chose to explore the famous Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for starters.

This Unesco world heritage site sits high above the Rhine and provides breathtaking views of the river and Koblenz.

The best way to get there is to take the Koblenz Cable Car.

This really was the best way to kick start our day and our boys loved it. 

Below are all the places/areas we visited and places we would recommend you visit when in Koblenz. 

 

Things to do 

 

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress

If you are looking for the most amazing views of Koblenz and it’s rivers then this is the spot. Enjoy the views of Deutsches Eck headland, where Rhine and Moselle join.

To be honest I was looking forward to seeing where the rivers meet as the rivers are meant to be two different colours.

I’d seen pictures so had this image in my head of seeing them mix.

Sadly this didn’t happen, either the images I looked at were photoshopped or it was because it was a cloudy day. I like to think it was the latter.

Built-in the year 1000 by Ehrenbert Conradine this place has many interesting areas to wander around.

There are exhibitions and several museums to explore. If you visit the National Museum you will learn the history of the fortress as well as the people who lived here.

We enjoyed strolling around the unesco world heritage, looking at the impressive buildings, soaking up the history and letting the kids run free. 

However if you would like to learn more then you could take a tour or walking tour with one of their guides.

There are also a couple of restaurants situated within the fortress with specular views. Make sure to also check out Beer garden Schlossplatz, its located on the upper castle courtyard.

The best way to get to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is to take the Koblenz Cable Car.

Koblenz Cable Car 

This is a real highlight, especially for our boys. If you are in a hurry and only have time to do one thing then this is it.

The trip starts from Koblenz old town metres from the Rhine, once you have your ticket the ride takes you 900m up and across the river.

If you are lucky boats and tourist passenger ships could pass under you. Not only do you get a great view of the Rhine the view of the city as you rise is pretty amazing too.

The journey lasts about 5 minutes one way and costs around 25 euros, return, for a family of 4.

The St. Castor Basilica  

The current building as it stands dates back to the 12th century though its history goes right the way back to 836.

If you wander around the grounds outside there are plaques giving information about its rich history.

We spent a little time in the gardens relaxing, having a couple of snacks and allowing the boys to move around. 

Inside is well worth a look, even with the kids. The colours are bright and there are intricate patterns in the ceiling, along with its stunning glass windows and a beautifully designed altar.

The Deutsches Eck

This is where the Moselle River joins the Rhine. Overlooking these rivers is the impressive monument of the first German Emperor, Wilhelm I riding on his horse.

This was erected in 1897 for his part in the unity of Germany. The original statue was destroyed in 1945 and then reinstalled in 1993. 

This is one of the main landmarks in Koblenz and many locals and visitors alike spend time walking around this area or just sitting on the steps watching the passenger and cruise ships park close by. 

 

Görresplatz

Located in the centre of town and only a couple of blocks for the Rhine river. We found this, a perfect spot to spend a little time relaxing and letting the boys run around.

They were very interested in the fountain and its statue, with its 10 three-dimensional scenes representing a part of Koblenz history. 

There are plenty of bench seats to pick from or you can sit on the steps around the fountain.

It’s also surrounded by restaurants and cafes if you are feeling hungry. 

We were here in the summer but in the winter this is where they have the Christmas markets. 

Jesuiteplatz

Only a few minutes walk from Görresplatz is Jesuiteplatz, this plaza is surrounded by beautiful historical buildings. We didn’t spend that long here is we were heading back to our hotel but wanted to have a look.

In the middle of the square is the bronze statue of Johannes Müller, he was a physiologist and biologist. 

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes too. Sadly we missed it but there is, by all accounts, the former Jesuit church. This is in the corner of the square.

The Liebfrauenkirche

This church is truly stunning, it was built in the 17th century though its original origins date back to the 5th century.

Where it has been built and rebuilt. It was reconstructed in 1955 after it had been bombed in 1944.

You can’t miss the white and red brick facade and the onion domes on top of its twin towers. 

Inside there is beautiful artwork, make sure you check up the designs on the ceilings. Around the outside of the church is worth a look too.

Especially the courtyard where there is a fountain and statue known as Familienbrunnen. It’s free to explore too.

Accommodation 

While there are lots of places to spend a night or two, we stayed at the B&B Hotel Koblenz. It’s a little outside of the old town but was worth the stay.

Only a short walkfrom the city center. We opted for the family room and Lukas loved the bunk beds as these were very comfortable.

It had everything we needed and considering we were just sleeping there it was the perfect budget option for us. 

For guests they also serve a buffet breakfast which was included in the room price along with free parking free wi-fi. 

Final Thoughts

Koblenz is well worth a visit, there is so much to see and do in the city. The great thing is that most sights and activities are all within walking distance.

Walking along the Rhine and Mosel river and watching the passenger boats is a must. 

But the highlight for us as a family was the Cable Car across the Rhine and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

If you are thinking about visiting Koblenz, don’t think, just do it you won’t be sorry.