Koblenz
approx. 85 km · approx. 1 hour from Kirchweiler
Koblenz is one of Germany's oldest cities – founded by the Romans at the point where the Rhine and Moselle meet. This unique geographical confluence of two great rivers makes the city an unmistakeable destination. From Kirchweiler it's about 85 kilometres and approximately one hour's drive – time well spent for a varied day trip.
German Corner
The landmark of Koblenz is the German Corner – the spit of land where the Moselle and Rhine converge. Here the monumental equestrian statue of Emperor Wilhelm I stands on a high plinth and offers a wide view over both rivers. The area is freely accessible and invites you to linger.
From the German Corner you can also overlook the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress on the opposite bank – connected in summer by the cable car, which offers a spectacular crossing. The German Corner is also the starting point for walks along both rivers.
Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
High above the German Corner, Ehrenbreitstein Fortress sits on a rock more than 100 metres above the Rhine. It is considered one of the largest preserved fortress complexes in Germany and today houses the Rhineland-Palatinate State Museum as well as further exhibitions. The complex itself is already an impressive architectural monument that testifies to the strategic importance of this location over centuries.
The panorama from the fortress walls over Koblenz, the Rhine and the surrounding hills is remarkable. Events and special exhibitions regularly take place on the fortress grounds – it's worth checking the current programme before your visit.
Koblenz Cable Car
The Koblenz cable car connects the Rhine bank near the German Corner with Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, offering a unique aerial view over the Rhine. The crossing takes just a few minutes and is an experience in itself – particularly impressive is the perspective from above on the confluence of Rhine and Moselle. The cable car operates seasonally; opening times and prices can be found on the current website.
Koblenz Old Town
Koblenz old town is compact, pleasant to explore on foot and rich in historic substance. Münzplatz, Jesuitenplatz with its baroque church and Florinsmarkt are the central squares where city life plays out. Cafés, restaurants and small shops line the pedestrian zones and alleys.
Particularly worth seeing is the Liebfrauenkirche at Florinsmarkt – one of the most beautiful Romanesque churches on the Middle Rhine. Also worth a look is the Electoral Palace, which stands directly on the Rhine and is today used as a cultural event venue.
Rhine & Moselle Experience
Koblenz is an excellent starting point for boat trips on the Rhine and Moselle. From here, excursion boats depart in both directions: up the Rhine towards Boppard and the Loreley, along the Moselle towards Cochem and Bernkastel-Kues. Those who just want a brief view of both rivers from the water will also find shorter cruises. The Rhine gardens – the wide waterfront promenade on the Koblenz side – are ideal for extended walks.
Cultural Mile
Koblenz has a remarkable concentration of museums. The Ludwig Museum in the Electoral Palace shows international art since 1945. The Middle Rhine Museum houses a significant collection on the art and cultural history of the Middle Rhine region. Those interested in Roman history will find archaeological traces in the city area as well as exhibitions on the Roman period.
Eating & Drinking
Koblenz's gastronomy is diverse: in the old town you'll find classic wine taverns and breweries, along the Rhine promenade modern restaurants with river views. Those who want to eat regionally try Sauerbraten, Döppekooche (a regional potato bake) or fish from the Rhine. Koblenz sits at the intersection of two wine regions – both Middle Rhine wines and Moselle Rieslings appear on the wine lists.
Getting Here from Kirchweiler
From Kirchweiler, take the A48 towards Mayen, then continue on the A61 towards Koblenz. The route is about 85 kilometres and can be covered in approximately one hour in normal traffic. Parking in Koblenz city centre is available in several car parks – the car park at the German Corner or on the Rhine bank offer convenient locations for visitors.
Combination Tips
Those who want to extend the trip can combine Koblenz well with a stop in Boppard – a charming small town on the Rhine with Germany's most beautiful Rhine bend. From Boppard there is also a chair lift to the high plateau with magnificent panoramic views. Alternatively, the drive along the Moselle route back towards Cochem turns the day trip into a small round trip through two river valleys.
Koblenz as a day trip from the Vulkan Eifel: our holiday apartment in Kirchweiler is only approx. 85 km away.