Things to do in Rhine Valley
Discover the best attractions and experiences Rhine Valley has to offer
Historic Monuments
The Rhine Valley is studded with medieval castles, fortifications, and legendary sites that tell the story of centuries along the river.
Burg Eltz
A fairy-tale castle tucked in the hills above the Moselle, superbly preserved and dramatically set in the forest.
Marksburg Castle
A fortress near Braubach that has never fallen to siege, offering a well-preserved glimpse into medieval fortifications.
Schloss Stolzenfels
Renaissance-era castle perched above the Rhine near Koblenz, restored in the 19th century.
Pfalzgrafenstein Castle
A dramatic water castle on an island in the Rhine near Kaub, connected by a stone causeway.
Lorelei Rock
Iconic cliff and cultural landmark famous for legends and panoramic river views.
Museums
World-class museums line the Rhine, from Cologne's modern galleries to archaeological collections along the river.
Wallraf-Richartz Museum
A premier Cologne collection spanning medieval to 19th-century European art.
Museum Ludwig
Renowned for modern and contemporary art, including a comprehensive pop and Picasso collection.
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
Cologne’s archaeology museum with Roman artifacts and ancient history displays.
Religious Monuments
Graced with soaring cathedrals and basilicas, the Rhine towns showcase centuries of religious architecture.
Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral)
Iconic twin-spired cathedral housing impressive gothic architecture and art.
Mainzer Dom (Mainz Cathedral)
Historic bishop’s cathedral with Romanesque and Gothic elements overlooking the Rhine.
Dom zu Speyer
One of the world’s largest Romanesque churches and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
National & Theme Parks
Beyond towns, the region combines theme parks with protected nature areas for outdoor adventures.
Phantasialand
A popular theme park in Brühl with thrilling rides and immersive worlds.
Nationalpark Eifel
A protected nature area offering forests, viewpoints, and hiking through the Eifel.
Neighborhoods
Charming river towns with distinctive Old Towns and scenic riverside promenades.
Koblenz Altstadt
Historic center along the Rhine with lively squares, cafés, and riverside views.
Rüdesheim am Rhein
Picturesque wine town known for its Drosselgasse and vineyard-lined streets.
Bacharach
Medieval town with gates, narrow lanes, and castle ruins perched above the river.
St. Goar
Riverside town gateway to the Rhine Gorge, with scenic towers and wine taverns.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy budget-friendly activities with sweeping river views and easy outdoor possibilities.
Walk the Rhine Promenade in Koblenz
Stroll along the riverfront and take in the scenic bridges and towers.
View the Lorelei Rock
Admire the cliffs and sweeping river panoramas from vantage points near Sankt Goarshausen.
Hike a section of the Rheinsteig
Tackle a segment of this river-side trail for rewarding views without a fee.
Gastronomy
Wine country flavors define the Rhine, with Riesling-inspired tastings and regional specialties.
Riesling wine tastings in Rheingau (Rüdesheim / Eltville)
Sample crisp Rieslings in historic winery cellars along the Rhine.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
Classic Rhine region dish featuring marinated roast served with red cabbage and dumplings.
Rhine fish dishes
Try fresh trout or other river fish prepared in regional styles at riverside taverns.
Nightlife
Evenings along the Rhine range from cozy pubs to lively squares in historic towns.
Koblenz Altstadt nightlife
Historic alleys and riverside bars offer relaxed evenings with local flair.
Cologne Old Town (Kölner Altstadt)
Bustling bars and live music around the old city center by the Rhine.
Mainz Old Town nightlife
Student-friendly bars and cozy pubs near the riverfront and market squares.
Entertainment
Seasonal festivals and cultural performances bring the Rhine towns to life after dark.
Rhine in Flames (Rhein in Flammen)
Spectacular pyrotechnic river festivals with fireworks along the Rhine.
Kölner Philharmonie concerts
World-class classical performances in Cologne’s landmark concert hall.
Theater Koblenz
Seasonal plays and performances in the city’s historic theater.
Sports
Active travelers can hike, bike, and paddle along the river's scenic routes.
Canoeing/kayaking on the Rhine
Paddle along calm stretches or scenic sections of the Rhine.
Hiking the Rheinsteig
A long-distance trail with spectacular river views and hillside vineyards.
Cycling the Rhine Cycle Route (EuroVelo 15)
Ride along dedicated bike paths linking historic towns and villages.
Off the Track
For something different, explore lesser-known corners, castle ruins, and scenic viewpoints off the beaten path.
Drachenfelsbahn to Drachenfels (Königswinter)
Ride the historic funicular to a hilltop viewpoint above the Rhine.
Niederwald Monument and trails (near Rüdesheim)
Explore the monument and surrounding forests with sweeping Rhine panoramas.
Explore Bacharach's medieval lanes
Wander its cobbled streets and discover tiny gates, towers, and historic houses.