Cities of Light

  • From $2,999
  • |
  • 12 Days
  • |
  • 10 Guided Tours
  • |
  • 4 Countries

Cochem, Germany

  • Scenic view of German town and statue

Perched on a hilltop above the city and the Moselle, a 1,000-year-old imperial castle is the signature landmark of Cochem. Its mighty rectangular keep and many small towers strike a dramatic pose against a curtain of green hills. In Cochem’s lively Old Quarter, the market square boasts old timber-framed houses that overlook Martin’s Fountain and the bay-windowed baroque Town Hall. In this historic center, the 15th-century St. Martin’s Church and the Capuchin monastery, which now serves as an artistic and cultural center, are all beautifully preserved. Wine taverns along the river offer a “green wine,” a very young wine.

Shore Excursions

Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.

Illuminated medieval castle at dusk

Cochem Walking Tour & Reichsburg Castle

Explore one of the most picturesque towns on the Moselle, ascending to its hilltop castle for a fantastic panorama.

Included
Illuminated medieval castle at dusk

Cochem Walking Tour & Reichsburg Castle

Duration: 3 hours      

A Stunning Medieval Town Crowned by a Neo-Gothic Jewel

Explore one of the most picturesque towns on the Moselle, ascending to its hilltop castle for a fantastic panorama. You will begin your excursion with a short drive up to the lofty perch of the 1,000-year-old Reichsburg Castle, conquered by Louis XIV in the Nine Years’ War and later purchased and restored in a splendid Gothic Revival style by a Berlin businessman. Return to the town below for a walking tour among impressive landmarks. You will see its medieval town gate and pass various churches, including the 15th-century St. Martin’s. In the market square, admire the bay window of the baroque Town Hall and see the 17th-century Capuchin Monastery, once a haven for friars and today a lively cultural center. After, explore on your own. You might want to taste some of the town’s award-winning mustard from a local 200-year-old mustard mill, the last of its kind in Europe.

* Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.
Cyclists riding along scenic riverside path

Bicycling the Moselle

Follow the meandering Moselle River past small villages, steep vineyards, sun-kissed slopes and lovely vistas.
Cyclists riding along scenic riverside path

Bicycling the Moselle

Duration: 3 hours      

Wind Your Way Along the River Through the Moselle Countryside

Follow the meandering Moselle River past small villages, steep vineyards, sun-kissed slopes and lovely vistas. Unlike some larger European rivers, the Moselle is never in a hurry. It leisurely winds its way around the steep slopes of shale that have been home to viticulture since Roman times. Small vintners still produce the vast majority of Moselle wines, as tradition is usually deemed more precious than profit in this part of Germany. The flat paths along the riverbank are ideal for an invigorating ride by e-bike. Your local guides will assist you with any adjustments your bicycle needs and describe the route from Cochem to the quaint village of Beilstein before you begin. The landscapes along the river and picturesque Beilstein invite you to unwind and soak up the region’s natural beauty on this leisurely ride.

* Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.