Nestled at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, you’ll find one of Germany’s oldest cities – Koblenz. It’s a place where wine and Carnival are as deeply ingrained in Rhenish culture as togetherness and cordiality. After their lectures at the relatively small higher education institutions, friends and students spontaneously get together and plan their next excursions.
Facts
114,052 Inhabitants ¹
9,868 Students ²
3 Higher education institutions ²
WELCOME TO KOBLENZ
Koblenz is situated in the northern part of Rhineland-Palatinate. Two rivers flow through the small city – the Rhine and the Moselle. Although Koblenz isn’t very large, there are plenty of things to do. It is located in a region containing numerous destinations for day-long excursions. Four mountains with woods, greens and lakes form the gorgeous backdrop of Koblenz. And the world-famous Loreley is located close by – this massive cliff formation is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Koblenz’s historic city centre is very picturesque. The (“German Corner”), where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers merge in the centre of town, is a popular site for tourists and a meeting place for residents. At the very tip stands a large monument, and up on the hill across the river, one can see Ehrenbreitstein Castle.
Koblenz attracts tourists from all over the world. That explains why you’ll hear snippets of French, Spanish and Asian languages interspersed with “Koblenzer Platt”, a German dialect particular to Koblenz. The city offers many opportunities to learn about German history and become acquainted with the celebrated Rhenish traditions. You can also visit numerous fortresses and castles built during the Roman times.
Tip
It can get really hot in Koblenz in the summer. Luckily for you, you can treat yourself to fantastic ice-creams in one of the many ice-cream parlours in town.
The historic district is located at the centre of Koblenz where you will find numerous well-preserved half-timbered houses. Downtown Koblenz is becoming more attractive all the time. A cable railway was installed several years ago, the promenades along the Rhine have been completely redone and the flowerbeds are constantly replanted with new flowers.
Interview
NATALIA FROM RUSSIA
LIVING IN KOBLENZ
Not only does the quaint historic centre make Koblenz a wonderful place to live in the summer. There’s even a beach where young people like to hang out. The grounds and facilities of the various higher education institutions in Koblenz are small, but have a modern design. Smaller institutions offer students the chance to talk to professors informally, “in passing” so to speak. The atmosphere is very personal.
Besides biking and inline skating, many people in Koblenz enjoy hiking through the region. The best-known route is the Moselle Trail. Walking along the Rhine promenade and the Rhine terraces is probably the most popular activity among residents and tourists alike. As soon as the sun comes out, the inhabitants of Koblenz (or Kowelenzer, as they call themselves) flock to the banks of the rivers. You’re bound to meet people of all ages, sitting at tables, eating and enjoying a local beer or wine from the region. It’s also nice to take a boat ride on the Rhine in good weather.
Koblenz is located in the Rhineland, a region which takes its Carnival festivities very seriously. In fact, it’s one of the major Carnival locations in Germany! Normally people greet each other during Carnival by saying “Kowelenz, olau!” During the week of Carnival, the entire city switches to “party mode” starting on “Weiberfastnacht” (Shrove Thursday) until Ash Wednesday. And on Rose Monday, a huge parade snakes its way through Koblenz’s historic city centre.
There are always occasions to go out and have fun in Koblenz. If you’re new to Koblenz, it might be a good idea to take a pub tour so you can visit many of the smaller locations. You’ll most likely be enjoying nightlife in Koblenz with friends from your higher education institution, yet the city can get a little sleepy in the winter and at weekends. A lot of students go home to visit family on holidays. So when autumn days are grey and dreary, you can finally go to one of the small libraries and devote some time to your studies.
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