Linz am Rhein Cruise Port
Linz am Rhein River Cruise Landing Stage
Linz am Rhein, Germany Port
UN/LOCODE DELRN Port of call Homeport
Linz am Rhein Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Germany |
| UN/LOCODE | DELRN |
| Contact | |
| Address | Rheinanlagen, 53545 Linz am Rhein, Germany |
| Port phone | +49 2644 2526 |
| Website | www.linz.de |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 50.43330, 7.28330 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The river cruise landing stages at Linz am Rhein sit exactly 400 metres from the town’s medieval gate, a flat 5-minute walk along the Rhine River promenade. Located in the Rhine Valley within the northern stretch of the Rhineland-Palatinate, this destination is often called the 'Colorful Town' due to its exceptionally preserved half-timbered architecture. You can realistically explore the entire historic core in under three hours, making it one of the most efficient stops on a Rhine itinerary. This destination is 25 km south of Bonn (roughly 25 minutes by train) and 35 km north of Koblenz (a 30-minute transit). As a dedicated river cruise port, Linz rewards those who appreciate 16th-century aesthetics and slow-paced exploration. However, it punishes travelers with significant mobility issues; the medieval cobblestones here are some of the most uneven in Germany. The incline from the waterfront to the upper St. Was measured. Martin Church at a steady 8% grade. Keep in mind that while the town looks like a film set, it remains a living community where local shops close strictly at midday on Saturdays. Do not expect a bustling shopping scene after 1:00 PM on weekends. If you seek high-energy attractions, you may find Linz too quiet, but for those chasing the quintessential German 'gemütlichkeit,' it is a masterclass in atmosphere.
Linz am Rhein — Port Overview
History
Linz am Rhein first emerged as a strategic powerhouse in 1320 when it was granted town rights by the Archbishop of Cologne, Heinrich II von Virneburg. Its primary purpose was not beauty, but revenue. The town served as a mandatory toll station for shipping traffic navigating the Rhine River, a role solidified by the construction of Burg Linz in 1365. This castle was built specifically to enforce the collection of river taxes and to protect the Archbishop's territorial interests against the rival Counts of Sayn. Throughout the 15th and 16th centuries, the town flourished through the wine and grain trade, funding the construction of the intricate half-timbered houses that define the 'Linz style' today. One pivotal event occurred in 1475 when the town was besieged during the Neuss War, yet the fortified walls largely held, preserving the medieval street layout. The most significant architectural shift happened in the late 19th century when the town rebranded itself as a tourist retreat, leading to the colorful painting of the timber frames that earned its modern nickname. When you walk through the Neutor gate today, you are stepping through the same portal used by 14th-century toll collectors to enter the town from the river docks.
The Verdict
Linz am Rhein rewards the traveler who slows down. While it lacks the blockbuster museums of Cologne or the sprawling fortresses of Koblenz, it offers the most concentrated atmospheric experience on the Middle Rhine. Travelers who benefit most from this port are the ones who arrive with a plan and the flexibility to adapt to the medieval terrain. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern.
Things to Do & See in Linz am Rhein
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marktplatz (Market Square) | Landmark | Marktplatz, 53545 Linz am Rhein | +49 2644 2526 | Open 24 hours | linz.de | Free |
| Rheintor (Rhine Gate) | Historical Site | Rheinstraße, 53545 Linz am Rhein | Open 24 hours | linz.de | Free | |
| Burg Linz (Linz Castle) | Historical Site | Burgplatz 4, 53545 Linz am Rhein | +49 2644 981180 | Daily 10:00-18:00 (Seasonal) | burg-linz.de | EUR €5.00 |
| St. Martin Church | Cultural Site | Am Kirchplatz, 53545 Linz am Rhein | +49 2644 2336 | Daily 09:00-17:00 | Not available | Free |
Marktplatz (Market Square) · Landmark
FreeThis is the architectural soul of the town. When you stand in the center, you are surrounded by timber frames dating back to the 1500s. It is best to walk to the center fountain first to orient yourself. Look up at the Town Hall; the 1517 construction is one of the oldest in the region still in use. Most visitors walk past the 'Alte Kanzlei' (Old Chancellery) without realizing it was the administrative hub of the Archbishop’s toll empire. The square rewards those who look at the details—carved wooden figures on the beams, colorful patterns on the shutters, and the unique 'Linz Red' paint that identifies many of the beams. According to the Romantischer Rhein Tourismus, this is one of the most photographed squares in Germany. It delivers a concentrated dose of Rhineland history in a space no larger than a standard American parking lot.
Marktplatz, 53545 Linz am Rhein ·+49 2644 2526 ·Open 24 hours ·www.linz.de
Rheintor (Rhine Gate) · Historical Site
FreeThe Rheintor is the physical bridge between the Rhine River and the town. Built in the 14th century, it was the primary security point for the toll collectors. When you stand under the arch, you are in the same spot where merchants once had their goods inspected and taxed. The gate still features its massive wooden doors and heavy iron hardware. The gate's arch is barely wide enough for a modern SUV, a reminder of how compact medieval security had to be. This is the best place to start your visit to understand the town's defensive layout. The walls extending from the gate once encircled the entire community. It delivers an immediate sense of 'arrival' and historical weight as you step from the modern riverfront into the medieval core.
Rheinstraße, 53545 Linz am Rhein ·Open 24 hours ·www.linz.de
Burg Linz (Linz Castle) · Historical Site
EUR €5.00Constructed in 1365 by order of the Archbishop of Cologne, Burg Linz was never meant to be a romantic residence; it was a tax office with battlements. Its location near the river was strategic for controlling the Rhine River tolls. Today, the main draw is the glass-blowing workshop, where you can watch artisans create traditional Rhenish glassware. It is a good idea to go straight to the workshop to see the furnace in action—it is a sensory experience of heat and precision. Visitor feedback indicates that the artisan workshops are often more rewarding than the focus on the torture museum in the basement. The castle delivers a tangible connection to the town's origins as a gateway for river commerce.
Burgplatz 4, 53545 Linz am Rhein ·+49 2644 981180 ·Daily 10:00-18:00 (Seasonal) ·www.burg-linz.de
St. Martin Church · Cultural Site
FreeThis is the oldest building in the town, consecrated in 1214. St. Martin is a rare example of the Rhenish transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture. Inside, the wall paintings from the 1200s and 1500s are the stars. They were covered by whitewash for centuries and only rediscovered in the 20th century. When you stand in the nave, the silence is a sharp contrast to the Marktplatz below. Even in summer, the temperature inside remains a cool 16°C (61°F). The church delivers a quiet, spiritual depth that the more commercial areas of the town lack. The view from the churchyard over the slate roofs of the town is the definitive photo op for the Rhine Valley.
Am Kirchplatz, 53545 Linz am Rhein ·+49 2644 2336 ·Daily 09:00-17:00 ·Not available
Eating & Drinking in Linz am Rhein
The culinary identity of Linz is rooted in the 'Rheinische Küche' (Rhenish cuisine), which prioritizes hearty, vinegar-marinated meats and local white wines. Unlike the beer-heavy South, here the Riesling is king. Look for the 'Federweißer' in early autumn—this partially fermented grape juice is a seasonal treat usually served with onion tart (Zwiebelkuchen). It is well established that the most authentic local snack is 'Himmel un Ääd' (Heaven and Earth), a dish of mashed potatoes and apple sauce with fried black pudding. Tourists often expect heavy Bavarian bratwurst, but locals here are more likely to eat a 'Halver Hahn'—which sounds like half a chicken but is actually a thick slab of Gouda cheese on a rye roll with mustard. For a genuine drink, ask for the 'Drachenblut' (Dragon's Blood), a local red wine blend inspired by the Siegfried legend of the nearby Drachenfels.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Strünzerbrunnen | Marktplatz 11, 53545 Linz am Rhein | +49 2644 809700 | Wed-Mon 11:30-21:00 | struenzerbrunnen.de | €22.00–€35.00 (~$25.50–$40.50 USD) |
| Alt Linz | Mittelgasse 2, 53545 Linz am Rhein | +49 2644 2206 | Daily 11:00-22:00 | alt-linz.de | €18.00–€28.00 (~$21.00–$32.50 USD) |
| Weinterrasse am Rhein | Rheinstraße 1, 53545 Linz am Rhein | Daily 12:00-19:00 (Weather dependent) | €6.00–€10.00 (~$7.00–$11.50 USD) |
Restaurant Strünzerbrunnen
€22.00–€35.00 (~$25.50–$40.50 USD)This is where you go for the definitive Rhine Valley meal. Order the Sauerbraten; the beef is marinated for days in vinegar and spices, served with a sweet-sour gravy and potato dumplings. The outdoor seating in the Marktplatz is some of the most coveted real estate in town. The honest limitation is the pace; service here is 'German slow,' meaning they expect you to sit for 90 minutes. Don't come here if you have a ship departure in 45 minutes.
Marktplatz 11, 53545 Linz am Rhein ·+49 2644 809700 ·Wed-Mon 11:30-21:00
Alt Linz
€18.00–€28.00 (~$21.00–$32.50 USD)Tucked just off the main drag, Alt Linz feels like a private club for the town’s residents. The interior is heavily beamed and dimly lit, perfect for escaping a hot afternoon. The Schnitzel is pounded thin and fried to order—no pre-frozen patties here. The Riesling soup is a local specialty you won't find on many cruise ship menus and is a popular item for visitors. Honest limitation: The dining room is small and can feel cramped if you are sensitive to tight spaces.
Mittelgasse 2, 53545 Linz am Rhein ·+49 2644 2206 ·Daily 11:00-22:00
Weinterrasse am Rhein
€6.00–€10.00 (~$7.00–$11.50 USD)Located right at the Rheintor with a direct view of the docks. This is the place for a 'Scheidebecher' (departure drink) before you board the ship. They serve wines specifically from the nearby Leutesdorf vineyards. It’s a simple terrace where the view of the Rhine River does the heavy lifting. Locals come here to debate the speed of the passing coal barges.
Rheinstraße 1, 53545 Linz am Rhein ·Daily 12:00-19:00 (Weather dependent)
Getting There & Around
Linz is almost entirely a pedestrian destination once you enter the town gates. Walking is the only practical way to see the Altstadt. However, if you wish to explore the surrounding Rhine Valley, the train station (Linz Rhein) is the hub. You can buy a 'Rhein-Pfalz-Ticket' for €28.00 (~$32.00 USD) which covers unlimited regional travel for up to five people—excellent value for small groups heading to Bonn or Koblenz. Uber does not operate here; rely on local taxi dispatch like Taxi Erler if needed. Biking is popular along the Rhine River path, and bikes can be rented near the ferry terminal for approximately €15.00 (~$17.50 USD) per day. Navigation tip: The town is built on a slope. If you want to avoid the steepest climb, head to the train station first and take a local bus (Line 565) to the upper town, then walk downhill back to the ship.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Linz am Rhein
Neutor and Rheintor
9:00 AM (20 min)
The two main gates of the medieval fortification. Look for the 'Linz Clappers'—wooden mechanisms used instead of bells during Holy Week.
- Walk from the pier via Rheinstraße. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Check the basalt columns integrated into the walls; they were quarried from the hills you see across the river.
Marktplatz and Old Town Hall
9:30 AM (60 min)
The heart of the town. The Town Hall (1517) features a daily carillon that plays regional folk songs.
- Continue up Rheinstraße for 200m. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- The carillon plays at 11:15 AM, 2:15 PM, and 5:15 PM. Time your visit to be in the square for the 11:15 performance.
Burg Linz (Linz Castle)
10:45 AM (60 min)
The former residence of the Archbishop’s toll collectors. It now houses a glass-blowing workshop and a torture museum in the cellar.
- Walk 3 minutes from Marktplatz. (Free)
- Entry: €5.00 ($5.75)
- Skip the torture museum unless you are a die-hard history buff; spend that time watching the master glassblowers instead.
Lunch Recommendation
Restaurant Strünzerbrunnen
It sits directly on the square but maintains high quality. While others go to the castle cafe, this is where you get the most authentic regional marinade.
Order: Rhenish Sauerbraten (marinated beef), Local Müller-Thurgau white wine
Marktplatz 11, 53545 Linz am Rhein
Cost: €25.00 (~$29.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Linz am Rhein
Old Town Exploration
9:00 AM (120 min)
Comprehensive walk including St. Martin Church and the town walls.
- Walk from pier. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- The view from the St. Martin cemetery offers the best panorama of the Rhine River.
Getting back to the ship
The latest safe departure time from the Marktplatz to guarantee a return to the ship is 30 minutes before the 'all-aboard' time. Since the walk is only 5 minutes, this provides a massive safety buffer. However, if you are in Königswinter, you must depart at least 90 minutes before all-aboard to account for potential train delays on the regional line. A taxi from the train station to the pier takes 3 minutes and costs roughly €8.00 (~$9.00 USD). If you are running late, contact the ship’s guest services immediately using the number on your daily program. River ships generally will not hold for independent passengers as they have strict lock-crossing schedules on the Rhine River. Missing the ship in Linz will require a €60.00 (~$70.00 USD) taxi ride to the next port (usually Koblenz or Cologne).
Weather & Best Time to Visit Linz am Rhein
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: April to October (plus Christmas Market season in December)
18°C–25°C (64°F–77°F). Rainfall is moderate but sudden afternoon showers are common in the Rhine Valley.
What to wear: Layers are essential. Even in summer, the river breeze can be chilly. Wear thick-soled walking shoes—thin sneakers will let you feel every sharp edge of the cobblestones. A compact umbrella is a must for the frequent Rhine Valley 'liquid sunshine.'
Weather risks: Low-lying fog can occasionally delay morning arrivals during October.
Autumn (September/October) is the wine harvest season; the weather is crisp and the vineyards turn gold.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (June–August) | Warm and often humid, with temperatures averaging 24°C (75°F). | Extreme heat radiation from the slate roofs and stone walls. The narrow streets trap heat, creating a 'canyon effect' with limited airflow. | The Marktplatz and the steep climb to St. Martin Church. | Wear a hat and stay on the shaded side of the narrow alleys. Use the public water fountain in the square to dampen a cooling cloth. |
| Shoulder Season (April–May, September–October) | Cool mornings followed by mild afternoons and frequent light rain. | Medieval cobblestones become incredibly slick when damp. Many travelers slip on the rounded 'cat's head' stones near the Rheintor. | The entire Altstadt pedestrian zone. | Footwear with deep rubber lug soles is mandatory. Avoid smooth leather soles or any heel height. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
In Linz, a simple 'Guten Tag' (Good day) when entering a small shop is non-negotiable; failing to do so marks you as a 'rude tourist' immediately. When dining, the most important Rhenish custom is the 'Stammtisch'—if a table has a small sign saying 'Stammtisch,' do not sit there, even if the restaurant is empty. This is reserved for regular local patrons. Splitting a dish is acceptable in casual cafes but considered slightly odd in more formal restaurants like Strünzerbrunnen. Photography is generally welcome, but always ask 'Darf ich?' (May I?) before photographing shop interiors or individual artisans. Tipping is not the 20% American standard; locals simply round up to the nearest Euro for coffee or add 5-10% for a full dinner. One common mistake cruise passengers make is trying to pay with a credit card for small amounts under €10.00; many small shops in Linz remain strictly cash-only for low-value transactions.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Stopping at the very first cafe you see outside the Rheintor gate. |
Wearing thin-soled sneakers or dress shoes. |
Failing to check the train schedule for the return from Königswinter. |
Expecting to find a major pharmacy open on Saturday afternoon. |
Practical tips
Linz is a 'cash is king' town. While hotels and larger restaurants accept cards, many small bakeries and cafes will only take cash or German 'EC' cards. Carry at least €40.00 in small bills and coins for the day. Tipping is straightforward: round up the bill by €1.00–€3.00 for good service. Learn five phrases: 'Guten Tag' (Hello), 'Danke' (Thank you), 'Bitte' (Please), 'Die Rechnung, bitte' (The bill, please), and 'Ein Glas Riesling, bitte' (A glass of Riesling, please). Beware of the 'pigeon scam'—if someone points at a mark on your jacket and offers to clean it, ignore them and keep walking; it’s a pickpocket distraction. For religious sites like St. Martin, there is no strict dress code, but removing hats and speaking in whispers is expected. The best strategy for avoiding crowds is to visit the Marktplatz before 10:30 AM, then head to the upper church as the day-trip trains from Bonn arrive at 11:00 AM.
Cruise Lines Visiting Linz am Rhein
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FAQ — Linz am Rhein
Is Linz am Rhein part of the UNESCO World Heritage Rhine section?
No, it sits just north of the officially designated UNESCO Upper Middle Rhine Valley, which begins at Koblenz. However, Linz offers the same architectural quality and river charm without the strict UNESCO preservation restrictions that sometimes limit modern visitor facilities. This makes the town slightly more 'lived-in' and less like a museum than some southern ports. Destination partners emphasize that the 14th-century core is managed with equal historical rigor, though it is not UNESCO-labeled. For those seeking the UNESCO experience, a morning transit to the Loreley section just 45 minutes south can be arranged in advance.
Can I walk to the Erpeler Ley basalt cliff from the cruise pier?
The cliff is on the opposite bank of the Rhine River. You must take the car ferry (Linz-Kripp), which costs €1.50 (~$1.75 USD) for foot passengers and takes 5 minutes. Once across, it is a steep 45-minute hike to the top. This is only recommended for guests with a full 8-hour port call and high fitness levels. The view from the top is spectacular, looking down on the 'Bridge at Remagen' site. If you have only 4 hours, skip the cliff and stay in the Altstadt to avoid the risk of missing your ship's departure.
What should I do if the shops are closed during my visit?
German shops close early on Saturdays and are entirely closed on Sundays. If you visit on a Sunday, your focus should be on the architecture, the St. Martin Church murals, and the riverside promenade. Restaurants and cafes remain open on Sundays to serve the tourism trade. Square occupancy increases by 30% on Sundays as locals from Bonn visit for coffee and cake, so booking a lunch table in advance is advisable. Most museums, including the glass-blowing workshop at Burg Linz, maintain Sunday hours from April to October.
How do I get from the cruise dock to the Linz train station?
Walk north along the Rhine River promenade (with the river on your left) for approximately 800 metres. The path is paved and flat, taking about 10–12 minutes. The station, Linz (Rhein), is the primary connection for trains to Bonn, Cologne, and Koblenz. Tickets can be purchased at the red 'DB' machines on the platform; they have an English language option. The walking route is well-lit but exposed to wind, so carry a jacket if heading out for an evening train trip.
Is the water in the town fountains safe to drink?
Yes, unless specifically marked with a sign showing a crossed-out glass ('Kein Trinkwasser'). The main fountain in the Marktplatz provides high-quality, potable water that is tested regularly by the local municipality. Visitors should bring a reusable bottle to fill here, as bottled water in local cafes can cost up to €4.00 (~$4.50 USD). It is a simple way to save money and stay hydrated while navigating the steep climb to the upper town. You will find that the water is some of the freshest in the Rhineland.
Are there any public parks for sitting away from the cafes?
The 'Rheinanlagen' is the main public park, stretching along the riverbank directly where your ship docks. It features manicured flower beds, shaded benches, and several monuments. It is the best place for a quiet moment without the pressure to order a drink. There is seating every 50 metres along the promenade. For a more secluded park, head to the 'Tilman-Johl-Park' near the old city walls on the east side of town, which most tourists never find.
What is the specific story of the 'Colorful Town' name?
The name 'Bunte Stadt am Rhein' was a 1920s marketing invention by the local tourism board. They realized that while many Rhine towns had timber frames, Linz had a uniquely high concentration of them in a small area. They encouraged residents to paint the wooden beams in varying shades of red, blue, and green to stand out. It worked, and the name has stuck for a century. When you look at the houses, you'll see the 'Linz Red' is the most common, derived from the iron-rich soil of the nearby hills.
Is there a public elevator to get to the upper part of the town?
No. Linz does not have a public elevator or funicular. The only way to reach the upper St. Martin Church and the high viewpoints is via the stepped or inclined streets. The town is difficult for those with limited mobility. If you cannot manage the 8% grade, your visit will be limited to the flat area between the Rheintor and the Marktplatz. A local taxi to drive you to the top if booked 24 hours in advance can be arranged in advance.
Where can I find the best local wine to take home?
Seek out 'Weinhaus Weiler' on the Mittelgasse. They specialize in Middle Rhine wines that are difficult to find in the US. Look for a 'Spätburgunder' (Pinot Noir) from the Ahr Valley or a dry Riesling from the Leutesdorf slopes. Expect to pay between €12.00 and €18.00 (~$14.00–$21.00 USD) for a high-quality bottle. Most cruise ships allow you to bring local wine on board for consumption in your cabin, but check your specific line's corkage policy if you intend to bring it to the dining room.
What is the 'Bridge at Remagen' and can I see it from Linz?
The Bridge at Remagen was a critical WWII crossing point located just 3 km north of Linz. The bridge itself collapsed in 1945, but the massive stone towers on both banks still stand. You can see the towers on the opposite bank clearly from the car ferry or from the heights of the Erpeler Ley cliff. The towers on the Remagen side now house a Peace Museum. To visit, take the ferry across the Rhine and walk or bike 2 km north. It is a powerful site for history enthusiasts.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.