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The Rhine Valley is one of Germany’s most scenic areas, alongside the Black Forest. The most beautiful section of the Rhine Valley lies between Koblenz and Bingen, in the Upper-Middle Rhine Valley. Here, the river cuts through the mountains, creating a winding valley of pretty villages with Gothic-style houses and fairytale castles. This section of the Rhine valley is often called the Rhine Gorge or the Romantic Rhine Valley, and is known as one of Europe’s most picturesque landscapes.
One of the most popular ways you can explore the Rhine Valley is by joining a river cruise, or a boat trip for the day. You can also easily explore the area on foot or bike, using the paths alongside the river and the surrounding hiking trails. But, for the ultimate flexibility, hire your own car. Whichever way you explore the Rhine Valley, you’re guaranteed to get stunning views!
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4 Beautiful places to visit in Germany's Romantic Rhine Valley
My husband and I explored the Rhine Valley in our own car, which gave us the flexibility to combine several spots into 4 days. There are so many places you can visit along the Rhine River. If you have longer to spend in Germany, you could even combine it with a trip through Northern Bavaria. However, this post focuses on four of the main towns in the Upper-Middle Rhine Valley.
It’s worth noting that many of the towns and villages along the Rhine river are close to one another. This means that you can easily explore several places in one or two days, especially if you have the flexibility of your own car.
Koblenz
Koblenz is one of Germany’s oldest cities and is most well known for the Deutsches Eck (The German Corner). The German corner is the point at which the Rhine river and the Mosel river meet. Standing on the corner, you get great views over both rivers and across to the hilltop Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.
You can take a cable cable across the river to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for views across Koblenz and the valley. The fortress is Europe’s second largest preserved fortress and it is now used as a museum detailing Germany’s history. Another way to view the Fortress is from the river, by joining a short river cruise from Koblenz. This is a lovely way to spend a warm, sunny day in Koblenz. Make sure that you also spend some time strolling around Koblenz’s Aldstadt (old town), where you will find narrow, cobbled streets, pretty courtyards and cute cafes.
On the other side of the old town, with views across the Rhine river is the Electoral Palace, which was the last residential Palace built in Germany before the French Revolution. Nowadays, the Palace now is used only for private events, however, you can access the terrace and gardens from the riverside.
A short drive out of Koblenz is the Stolzenfels castle. Originally, there was a 13th century fort that stood here, however it was sadly destroyed in battle. As a result, a castle was rebuilt in its place during the 19th century from the ruins of the fort. Today, tourists can visit the castle for a small entrance fee, or simply enjoy the views overlooking the river from the grounds.
Braubach
On the other side of the Rhine river and tucked right under the hillside is Braubach. It is a very small town, and much quieter than Koblenz, so you’ll only need a couple of hours here. But, if you have a bit of extra time, it’s worth it to experience the charm.
Start with a stroll through the town itself, admiring the cute half timber houses and the Phillipsburg Palace. The Palace was built in 1568 as a home for a landgrave who felt that the Marksburg Castle, which sits above the Palace on the hillside, was too ‘uncomfortable’. The Palace now houses the town archives and there’s also a restaurant in the courtyard which is open to the public.
After you have wandered around the small town, follow the signs leading up the hillside to Marksburg Castle. It’s a short, steep climb but the views across the town of Braubach and the Rhine Valley and river are worth it. There is also a car park if you prefer to drive to the castle entrance. In the castle grounds, there’s a cafe and picnic area, or you can pay to visit the castle, which now houses a small museum.
Before you leave Braubach, take a moment to have a stroll along the riverside promenade, or just sit and watch the world go by.
Boppard
Surrounded by rolling hills of vineyards, Boppard is the picture perfect traditional German town.
Within the town there are several historical landmarks, including the ruins of an old castle. Even the old town walls and gates still remain, although they have now been incorporated into newer buildings. Start your visit to Boppard by the church in the market square, where there are several shops and cafes. From the square, spend a bit of time wandering the side streets, admiring the timber-framed buildings and Gothic architecture.
After exploring the town, take a stroll along the promenade, where cafes and restaurants line the riverside. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a drink or lunch with a view of the Rhine river and valley.
Just outside of Boppard is the Fünfseenblick observation tower. The 27.4 meter observation tower, sat on the top of the hill offers breath-taking views across the Rhine Valley. There is also a restaurant here so you can enjoy lunch with a view!
For even more great views of the valley, head further out of town to the Boppard chairlift. And, if you want more of a thrill, head to the summer toboggan run and adventure park, just South of Boppard.
Bingen
Bingen is a pretty town in the South of the Upper-Middle Rhine Valley, known for its impressive architecture. In the centre of Bingen is the Klopp Castle. Unfortunately, the castle was destroyed several times throughout the centuries, and although it was eventually restored in 1897, it was sadly damaged again in WWII. However, the castle was once again restored after WWII and today, you can even climb the tower for views over the town.
Another notable building in Bingen is the St Martin’s Basilica, which was built on the foundations of an old roman temple. This building was also badly damaged in several conflicts over the years but was lovingly restored to its former glory once again.
You can also visit the Drusus Bridge, which is Germany’s oldest stone bridge. The bridge houses a small chapel, and if you borrow the key from the tourist information centre, you can visit it!
Another well-known landmark in Bingen is The Mouse Tower, which was once a former signal tower. The now famous landmark sits on a tiny island in the middle of the Rhine river. This means that, unfortunately, you can’t visit the tower, but you can admire it from the banks of the river.
Away from the sightseeing, Bingen is right in the heart of the famous Rhine Valley vineyards. This means that you are spoiled for choice with wine-tasting experiences!
How to spend one day in the Rhine Valley
Want to visit the Rhine Valley, but only have one day? Don’t worry, if you only have one day to spare, you can still get a taste of the Rhine Valley.
If you only have one day to spend in the Rhine Valley, I would recommend taking a leisurely drive, with a couple of quick stop-offs in the towns along the way. You can drive close to the Rhine river most of the way through the Rhine Valley. It’s a great driving route, especially for the passenger! If you don’t have your own car, the train line also runs parallel to the Rhine river. Or take a river cruise – there are several companies operating day or half day trips if you’re short on time.
