Alte Burg
A 13th-century electoral castle on the Moselle, now housing city archives, offering historic charm and scenic river views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Alte Burg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 13th-century electoral castle on the Moselle, now housing city archives, offering historic charm and scenic river views.
"A beautiful historic building that houses history not only within its interior."
📸 Exterior Views
Admire the historic architecture from the outside; interior access may be limited due to archive use.
🚶♀️ Riverside Stroll
Enjoy a walk along the Moselle River for scenic views of the castle and bridge.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Electoral Castle
Koblenz Old Town, Moselle River bank
A 13th-century lowland castle, now housing city archives. Admire its historic architecture from the outside.
Moselle Riverfront Views
Adjacent to the Moselle River
Enjoy picturesque views of the Moselle River and the nearby Balduin Bridge from the castle's location.
Proximity to Old Town
Koblenz Old Town
Easily accessible within Koblenz's charming old town, making it a convenient stop on your exploration.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Alte Burg
Understanding Alte Burg's Role
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Exterior Views
Admire the historic architecture from the outside; interior access may be limited due to archive use.
🚶♀️ Riverside Stroll
Enjoy a walk along the Moselle River for scenic views of the castle and bridge.
📍 Old Town Charm
Explore the surrounding old town for a complete Koblenz experience.
📅 Check for Events
Look for special open days or historical reenactments that might offer interior access.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Exterior Views
Admire the historic architecture from the outside; interior access may be limited due to archive use.
🚶♀️ Riverside Stroll
Enjoy a walk along the Moselle River for scenic views of the castle and bridge.
📍 Old Town Charm
Explore the surrounding old town for a complete Koblenz experience.
📅 Check for Events
Look for special open days or historical reenactments that might offer interior access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Alte Burg as a historic landmark with a picturesque riverside location, noting its role as city archives. While interior access is limited, its exterior charm and proximity to Koblenz's old town and the Moselle make it a worthwhile sight.
"Super"
Andrej Frank
"We're in Koblenz, the second stop on our Rhine and Moselle River tour. The historic Prince Elector's Castle, on the banks of the Moselle next to the Balduin Bridge, looks stunning. But I suspect the restoration hasn't been top-notch. It used to be an archive building and now sits empty. I liked the landscaping."
REMZİ BALAY
"Not badly restored castle, located on the Moselle very close to the old town and Deutsches Eck, cannot be visited from the inside, but is still well received by the city archives, definitely better than an empty building."
Paul P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Alte Burg is located in the old town of Koblenz, easily accessible by foot from the city center. Public transport options include buses and trams that stop near the Moselle River. +1
Parking in Koblenz's old town can be challenging. It's recommended to use public parking garages or consider arriving by public transport.
The nearest train station is Koblenz Hauptbahnhof. From there, you can take a local bus or tram, or enjoy a pleasant walk to Alte Burg.
While the exterior is accessible, interior access might be limited due to the building's use as city archives and potential renovation needs.
Walking is the best way to explore the old town and the Moselle riverfront. Consider a scenic boat tour for a different perspective.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Alte Burg is primarily viewed from the exterior as it houses the city archives. No tickets are typically required for external viewing.
Interior access is generally not available to the public as the building serves as the city archives. However, special events or open days may offer limited access.
Since it's an archive, there are no public visiting hours. The exterior can be viewed at any time.
There is no entrance fee to view Alte Burg from the outside.
Check the official Koblenz tourism website or local event listings for any announcements regarding open days or historical events.
📸 📸 Photography
The banks of the Moselle River and the Balduin Bridge offer excellent vantage points for photographing Alte Burg.
Photography of the exterior is generally permitted. However, always be respectful of the building's function as an archive.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting on the castle and the river.
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas and near historical sites. Check local regulations before flying a drone.
Interior photography is not possible as public access is restricted.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Alte Burg is a 13th-century electoral castle, a lowland castle built on the banks of the Moselle River. It has served various purposes throughout its history and now houses the city archives.
As a lowland castle from the 13th century, it reflects medieval defensive architecture. While much has been adapted, its historical structure is evident.
It's a historical landmark representing Koblenz's past as an electoral seat and its strategic location on the Moselle.
No, Alte Burg is not a ruin. It is a preserved building that currently houses the city archives.
Historically, it served as an electoral castle. Later, it was used as an archive building.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining a visit to Alte Burg with a ride on the Seilbahn Koblenz (cable car) for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Deutsches Eck, and the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. This offers a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Pair your visit with explorations of other historical sites in Koblenz, such as the Deutsches Eck, the Fortress Ehrenbreitstein (accessible via the cable car), or nearby castles like Reichsburg Cochem or Eltz Castle, which are popular day trips from Koblenz.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Alte Burg
While the castle has undergone various transformations over the centuries, its core structure and historical importance remain. Today, it serves a crucial civic function as the city archives of Koblenz. This role ensures its preservation and continued relevance, even if public access to its interior is limited. The building's presence adds a significant layer of historical depth to the charming old town of Koblenz.
Visitors can appreciate the Alte Burg's historical narrative by observing its exterior architecture and its picturesque setting. The castle's proximity to other historical sites, like the Deutsches Eck and the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, allows for a comprehensive exploration of Koblenz's past.
Exploring the Moselle Riverfront
From the riverbanks, you can capture some of the most iconic photographs of the Alte Burg, especially during the golden hour when the setting sun casts a warm glow on the ancient stone. The nearby Balduin Bridge, one of the oldest bridges in Germany, adds to the picturesque charm of the scene.
Beyond the immediate vicinity of Alte Burg, the Moselle riverfront in Koblenz offers further exploration. You can find charming cafes, restaurants with outdoor seating, and opportunities for boat tours that provide a unique perspective of the city and its historical landmarks.
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