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Ehrenbreitstein cable car
The Ehrenbreitstein cable car has been connecting the banks of the Rhine and Moselle in a spectacular way since the BUGA 2011. Even during the four-minute ride, the keyword “
From Prussian bulwark to cultural stage – the history
Today’s Ehrenbreitstein Fortress was built between 1817 and 1828 under Prussian rule on the remains of an Electorate of Trier castle. Its ground plan follows the rocky ridge and is considered a masterpiece of fortress construction: up to 100 cannons were to dominate the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley here. After the end of the German Confederation, the complex lost its military significance and became a depot, military hospital and later a museum. Today, it is home to the Koblenz State Museum, the interactive exhibition “Rhine Romanticism” and changing events – from literature festivals to gourmet nights. The former bastion has long since become a lively cultural campus for young and old. A walk across the moats takes around 45 minutes and offers spectacular views of the Rhine, Moselle and Deutsches Eck.
Arrival with the Koblenz cable car – floating over the UNESCO World Heritage Site
The 890-metre-long cable car starts at the St. Kastor Basilica in the old town. Within four minutes, the glass panorama cabins float almost silently 270 meters above the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. A new generation of energy-saving cabins with photovoltaic roofs has been in operation since 2023. In the peak season, gondolas depart every 30 seconds – so waiting times are rarely a problem. Good to know: Bicycles, baby carriages and wheelchairs travel free of charge. If you arrive early, you can get a seat in cabin 17 with a glass floor – the thrill of looking directly into the abyss makes for unforgettable vacation photos ( <https://www.seilbahn-koblenz.de>). An alternative is bus route 1, but the cable car saves 25 minutes and takes you to your destination.
Admission, combined tickets & family rates – prices 2025 at a glance
A new combined ticket has been available since April 2025: a return trip plus admission to the fortress costs €19 for adults, €11 for children (7 – 17 years) and €46 as a family package (2 adults + max. 3 children). Advance online purchase saves 10% and avoids queues – ideal if you start after a hearty breakfast in the Oberwinter vacation apartment(https://ferienwohnung-oberwinter.de/unsere-ferienwohnungen/). Holders of the Rhineland-Palatinate Card even receive free admission to the fortress. Tip: The evening ticket from 5 p.m. costs just €8 and rewards you with a sunset behind Marksburg Castle.
Highlights on site: interactive exhibitions, skywalk & rock games
Whether you’re a history buff or an adventurer – there’s something for everyone on the 118-metre-high rocky spur. The State Museum presents authentic cells from the former military prison in the permanent exhibition “Behind Lock and Key”. Children love the multimedia treasure hunt via app, where they can find virtual cannonballs and defend themselves against digital attackers. The Skywalk, which opened in 2024, delivers adrenaline: a twelve-meter cantilevered glass platform above the abyss. Less daring? Then the 3-hectare fortress meadow is the perfect place for a picnic (don’t forget your blanket!). The “Casino” restaurant with terrace facing the south tower is ideal for a coffee break and a panoramic view. Here you can try regional classics such as “Debbekoche” or the new fortress gin.
Insider tips for the perfect day trip
Plan at least four hours on site. Early risers take the first gondola at 09:30 and experience the morning light without the crowds. The excursion can be combined with a boat trip to Boppard – the landing stage is located directly at the valley station. Photographers should buy the so-called Blue Hour Pass: This allows you to stay until 30 minutes after closing time, when Koblenz is already lit up. Another family highlight is the Adventure Golf Park on the fortress plateau. Back in Oberwinter, a detour to the marina
Conclusion: Rhine romance within reach – book now!
The combination of soaring views, 1,000 years of history and family-friendly infrastructure makes the Ehrenbreitstein cable car a must-see in the Middle Rhine Valley. From your comfortable base in the Oberwinter vacation apartment, you can reach Koblenz in 30 minutes by car or by train.
