Weekend in Koblenz

A reconstructed medieval castle on the Moselle, now housing the Koblenz City Museum. The exterior and courtyard are free to explore; the museum costs €5 but is small.

Tip: Just visit the free courtyard and tower base – you get the best exterior views from the Moselle footbridge. Avoid the paid museum unless you’re a dedicated history buff.

A long riverside park stretching along the Moselle, with flowerbeds, statues, and benches. Perfect for a quiet walk or picnic without the hubbub of the main promenade.

Tip: Walk past the main tourist zone to the quieter section near the ‘Schängel’ fountain – you’ll find fewer people and better birdwatching. Free public toilets at the playground end.

A massive stone monument at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, with a 37-metre statue of Emperor Wilhelm I. Best for river views and photo-ops.

Tip: Go early morning or at sunset to avoid crowds. The nearby cable car gives skyline views but costs €10.80 return – skip it and just wander the promenades.

A compact city museum in the Forum Confluentes building, covering Roman history, medieval art, and Rhine Romanticism. Entry is €6 but free on first Sunday of each month.

Tip: Go on the first Sunday of the month (free) or combine with the adjacent Koblenz City Library’s free exhibitions. The museum cafe has €3 coffee and good river views.

A massive hilltop fortress overlooking Koblenz, housing museums and panoramic terraces. Entry is free with the Rhineland-Palatinate state museum ticket (€6) but the grounds are free to walk.

Tip: Take the cable car from Deutsches Eck for €10.80 return, but save money by hiking the 30-minute path up through vineyards. Bring water – it’s a steep climb.