Considered one of the country’s most beautiful areas, the German Corner (Deutsches Eck) is where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers meet. Here you will find Koblenz, a captivating city that recently celebrated its 2000th birthday.
The area is teeming with history. Julius Caesar conquered it in 1000 BC, it became a part of the Holy Roman Empire in 925 AD, and it was bombed heavily in World War II. Its rich historical context shapes the feel of the city. In many ways, Koblenz is a patchwork of different eras, evidenced by the varying architecture throughout the area.
Its ancient buildings and bountiful history are tempered by an active cultural, food and drink scene. Old Town, which is often referred to as Altstadt, is packed with narrow streets and alleyways. This section adjoins both rivers, so make sure to enjoy the outdoor cafes and indulge in delicious food paired with a beautiful view.Koblenz is in the heart of Germany’s wine region connoisseurs will celebrate the opportunity to enjoy the city’s many wine bars. Shoppers will love milling around Löhrstraße, a stretch of stores that is adjacent to Old Town. The Löhr-Center, an upscale shopping mall, is another popular destination.
Take advantage of Koblenz’s proximity to the water and take a boat tour down the river, where you can taste wine and see castles that dot the shore. Those who are uncomfortable on the water can rent bicycles for the day and ride along the waterside. The ferry will take you to the must-see Stolzenfels Castle. This 13th-century fortress is worth exploring to enjoy its remarkable architecture and impressive art. If you’re looking to explore the modern side of Koblenz’s art scene, visit the Ludwig Museum, which has a large collection of postmodern pieces.
Every August, Koblenz hosts Rhein in Flammen, a weekend-long festival that is filled with concerts and awe-inspiring fireworks displays. The Electoral Palace has beautiful gardens and often presents festivals and concerts throughout the year.
Koblenz is an hour from both the Frankfurt and Cologne airports. Trains run regularly in and out of the city, making it easy to access this ancient German city.