Imagine floating high above the Rhine and Moselle – that’s exactly what you’ll experience with the Koblenz cable car. It takes you up to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress in a spectacular way. More than just a means of transportation, it is an experience you won’t soon forget. The Koblenz cable car is modern, fast and offers you an incredible view. You can take the Koblenz cable car from the banks of the Rhine, just a few minutes away from Koblenz’s old town.
View of the city, rivers and world heritage site
As you float in the Koblenz gondola, you can see the impressive backdrop of the city. It doesn’t get any better than this. Even the German Corner (Deutsches Eck) from above – a real highlight. You can see exactly where the Rhine and Moselle meet, as the two rivers are different colors. The gondola also offers you a panoramic view of the river landscape of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Upper Middle Rhine Valley. During the ride on the Ehrenbreitstein cable car, you have an impressive view. The mighty Ehrenbreitstein Fortress towers high above the river. You get closer and closer to it and travel upwards at 20 kilometers per hour. Unfortunately, the ride comes to an end after around 7 minutes. The cable car is more than just a means of transportation – it is an experience.
History: Koblenz cable car – from BUGA to attraction
The Koblenz cable car went into operation in 2011 – the year of the Federal Horticultural Show. At that time, parts of the garden show were built on the banks of the Rhine, others on the grounds of Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. The Koblenz gondola was created to connect the two locations in an environmentally friendly way. It quickly became one of the city’s most popular attractions. With a capacity of up to 7,800 people per hour and construction costs of around 12 million euros, it is impressive.
Originally, the city planned to dismantle the cable car in 2013 – out of concern for the UNESCO World Heritage status of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley cultural landscape. But things turned out differently: a citizens’ initiative campaigned for its preservation. In a representative survey, 90% of Koblenz residents voted in favor of continued operation. UNESCO also gave the green light: the cable car was compatible with the World Heritage status. Today, it takes millions of visitors up to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.
Special tips: Take the cable car to the fortress in the evening
A ride on the Ehrenbreitstein cable car at sunset is a special experience. In the summer months, the cable car often runs late into the evening – between 10 p.m. and midnight, depending on the season. It’s best to find out the exact times in advance. That way you can make the most of balmy summer evenings.
In the evening, the atmosphere is special, both in the park in front of the fortress and on the grounds of Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. The romantic lighting bathes the historic walls in a soft light. From the upper castle courtyard, you have a fantastic view of the sunset over Koblenz and the Deutsches Eck. More romance is hardly possible.
Surroundings: Discover Koblenz highlights on foot
The area surrounding the Koblenz cable car is beautiful. After the ride, you can explore Koblenz Old Town, which is just a few minutes away. Here you will find cozy cafés, small stores and historic buildings. You can walk to the Electoral Palace in 5 minutes. The magnificent building was built in the style of French early classicism. In front of it is a beautifully landscaped palace garden. Here you can relax after your trip on the Koblenz cable car. The Deutsches Eck is just a few minutes’ walk away – you may have already seen this striking location from the cable car. The Kaiser Wilhelm Monument looks particularly impressive up close. Take a walk along the Rhine and you will find cozy cafés and inviting inns. You can also take a boat tour from here and admire the picturesque landscape from the water.
