Cochem on the Moselle

Reichsburg Cochem

The landmark of the town, visible from far away, the Reichsburg Cochem sits on a rock above the Moselle valley. The castle's current appearance dates back to a reconstruction in the 19th century, after the original complex was destroyed in the War of the Palatine Succession in 1689. The reconstruction was carried out in the neo-Gothic style, giving the castle its romantic appearance.

Guided tours through the interior of the castle are offered daily and provide an insight into the medieval history of the region. Particularly worth seeing are the knights' hall, the historic living quarters and the view from the castle terrace over the Moselle valley. The walk up to the castle takes about 15 minutes and leads through the historic castle path.

The Old Town of Cochem

Below the castle stretches Cochem's charming old town with its narrow alleys, half-timbered houses and lively market square. Wine bars, cafés and boutiques line up here – ideal for a leisurely stroll without rush. Particularly the area around the market square and Balduinstraße is worth an extended walk.

Despite tourism, Cochem has retained its character: the old town is not overtly kitsch but lives from genuine Moselle hospitality and a natural self-understanding as a wine town.

Moselle Promenade & Boat Trips

The promenade along the Moselle invites extended walks – with views of the gentle vineyard slopes stretching on both sides of the river. In summer there is colourful activity on the water: pleasure steamers, houseboats and canoes enliven the Moselle.

From Cochem, regular boat trips on the Moselle depart, offering one-hour panoramic rides to multi-hour tours with intermediate stops depending on the operator. A boat trip offers a completely different perspective on the vineyards and castles along the river.

Wine Culture on the Moselle

The Moselle is one of Germany's most prestigious wine regions. The Riesling that thrives on the steep slate slopes is considered one of the most complex white wines in the world. In Cochem and the surrounding area there are numerous wineries offering tastings and cellar tours – an experience that goes far beyond mere drinking.

Wine shops in the old town allow a structured introduction to the world of Moselle wines without having to visit a whole winery. Sample various Rieslings from the surrounding area – dry, off-dry and fruity – and let yourself be advised. The winemakers on the Moselle are happy to take time for their guests.

Eating & Drinking in Cochem

Cochem's gastronomic scene is shaped by Moselle cuisine: fish dishes, game from the Eifel forests, regional Sauerbraten and of course Riesling as an accompaniment. Along the promenade and in the old town there is a good selection of restaurants combining regional cuisine with Moselle views.

Particularly recommended is lunch in one of the traditional wine taverns – straightforward, honest and with good house wines. In the afternoon you can relax in one of the cafés on the market square with coffee and cake before heading back to the Eifel valley.

Chair Lift to Pinnerberg

A special feature of Cochem is the chair lift that leads to the Pinnerberg – one of the vineyard hills above the town. At the top, a wide panoramic view opens up over Cochem, the Moselle bend and the surrounding vineyards. The Pinnerberg also has the Pinnerkreuzkapelle chapel and a viewpoint with beer garden.

Getting Here from Kirchweiler

From Kirchweiler, drive towards Ulmen, then via Kaisersesch into the Moselle valley. The route passes through beautiful Eifel landscape and already offers lovely views along the way. Shortly before Cochem the road winds down into the Moselle valley – a picturesque approach. Best to park in one of the car parks on the outskirts of town, from where you can easily reach the old town on foot.

Combination Tips

Those who want to extend a day trip can wonderfully combine Cochem with other Moselle towns. The picturesque Beilstein with its castle ruins is only a few kilometres upstream and is significantly quieter than Cochem. Further south, the Moselle bend at Bremm beckons – one of the steepest stretches of the river, ideal for a short viewing stop. Traben-Trarbach with its Art Nouveau architecture and large wine trading houses is also worth a detour.