moselle valley cruise

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures

Moselle River Cruises

The romantic Moselle winds through an enchanting landscape of castles, picture-book villages and terraced slate hillsides that form one of the world’s richest wine regions. With a settled history that predates the Romans, it is yours to discover on one of our Moselle river cruises.

Cities of Light

• PRICE & BUILD

Paris to the Swiss Alps

Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle

Christmas on the Main & Moselle

Highlights of moselle river cruises.

The Moselle River meets the Rhine at Koblenz, Germany. On the way, it weaves and twists from France, forms a natural boundary between Luxembourg and Germany and follows a sinewy path past breathtaking vistas of sloping vineyards. The Holy Roman Empire had one of its major capitals here, the magnificent city of Trier, and tidy villages emerged on its fertile shores to produce what would become some of the world’s most loved wines. Here are a few sample highlights of what awaits you on a Viking Moselle cruise:

• Trier’s fascinating ruins from its days as a Roman capital
• The fairytale charms of Bernkastel-Kues
• Luxembourg City’s elegant and stately architecture
• Wine-making traditions that date back 2,000 years
• The stunning medieval town of Cochem
• Millennium-old Reichsburg Castle, perched on a hillside
• The quaint Old Town of Koblenz, where the Moselle and Rhine meet
• The refined, sweet flavors of the world’s best Rieslings

Sign up to receive updates from Viking

Stay current with special offers, news and destination-focused content.

Company Information

• Order a Brochure
• Special Offers
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Advisors
• Media Center
• Health & Safety Program
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Manage Cookies

Viking River Cruises

• Mississippi

Viking Ocean Cruises

• Scandinavia
• British Isles & Ireland
• North America
• Caribbean & Central America
• South America
• Mediterranean
• Quiet Season Mediterranean
• Australia & New Zealand
• World Cruises
• Grand Journeys

Viking Expeditions

• Great Lakes
• Longitudinal World Cruises

APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

Moselle River Cruises

Lose yourself in the wonderful landscapes of Germany ’s vineyards located along the Moselle River or relax in the picturesque French countryside . Plenty of river cruise adventures provided by the best river cruise companies in the world are now available.

213 Moselle cruises with 86 reviews

• River Cruise
• Wine tasting

The Rhine & Moselle: Canals, Vineyards and Castles 2024

It was one of my best vacations ever! We had a suite. The room was the perfect size and the bathroom was huge! The meals were excellent with plenty of wine at dinner. They didn't really offer wine or beer at lunch but you could get it if you asked for it. I loved the fact that there were only 120 people on board and we got to know everyone. It is so much better than a huge cruise ship. The guides in port were excellent and very knowledgeable. Our cruise director was very good and kept things moving along nicely as well as making everyone on board feel welcome. My only suggestion for future cruises is to let people know that they offer transfers from the airport. My husband and I were the only ones who knew that they were offered only because we asked in advance. Also, I was surprised that the bar was hardly ever open while we were cruising.

4 Rivers: The Moselle, Sarre, Romantic Rhine, and Neckar Valleys (port-to-port cruise)

Destinations were good. Staff were very nice and helpful. Cabins clean and tidy. Showers only for the slim and agile. Wifi was OK. Food was OK, with no choices. Wine etc was plentiful. English definitely at a disadvantage with some guides and only two TV channels.

The Valley of the romantic Rhine, the Moselle and the Main (port-to-port cruise)

Guila of Croisieurope’s Leonardo da Vinci is wonderful! All crew were very nice. Great value!

The Rhine & Moselle with 2 Nights in Lucerne (Southbound) 2024

Holland & Belgium Tulip River Cruise (Amsterdam - Brussels - Amsterdam)

This was my first canal tour so was not really sure what to expect. I enjoyed the experience although I was not anticipating only 4 English as a first language speaking people on the tour.

Romantic Rhine & Moselle - Nijmegen (Start Amsterdam, End Zurich)

Best cruise yet. Passengers and crew were amazing. On shore activities were good too.

Romantic Rhine & Moselle - Nijmegen (Start Amsterdam, End Basel)

Magnificent Moselle & Rhine (2024) (Frankfurt to Frankfurt, 2024)

Moselle Romance 2024 (27 destinations)

NEW: Moselle Romance 2024 (8 destinations)

Europe's Rivers & Castles 2024 Start Luxembourg, End Nuremberg

Beautiful Moselle

Rhine & Moselle Fairytales 2024

Landscapes of the Rhine and Moselle Dutch Symphony Main

Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards (Start Amsterdam, End Zurich)

Reviews of moselle cruises.

The ship itself was great, rooms and bathroom were a good size for a smaller ship. The food and dining room staff were excellent. Entertainment and on board communication was poor only in French. Need to do a better job it ensure that customers that don’t speak French are informed on whats going on and are seated together in the dining room! The excursions that were provided were good but some were only with a French speaking guide. Overall we had great time on this Cruise!

Food was lovely and almost central to the trip. Took some beautiful photos and enjoyed the explorations on land (esp. Rudesheim where I found the St. Hildegard church). Interesting to talk to our table-mates about history and politics. Beds were too soft. Staff was very helpful and friendly.

Crucemundo people and food were great. Ship was clean and comfortable. We loved having the freedom to go on and off the boat when the boat was docked in port. Would have liked more time in Delft. Sunday and Monday the museums and shops were closed in Rotterdam. Having Tulip in the cruise name is a bit misleading since we don’t see any. Tour radar should not be so strict about the meals as we were brought back to the ship because they had to feed us on board. Transportation should be both to and from Amsterdam, considering you are advertising that the crew starts and ends in Amsterdam. No, Zaandam is NOT part of Amsterdam. We should be offered the optional excursions for purchase at the beginning of the cruise. There should be some minimal criteria for tour guides. Most were great, but a couple were not up to par.

Moselle Tours starting in:

• Amsterdam (35)
• Cologne (13)
• Frankfurt-am-Main (10)
• Strasbourg (8)
• Luxembourg (6)
• 7 Day Tours (23)
• 10 Day Tours (64)
• 2 Week Tours (29)
• 3 Week Tours (13)
• 4 Week Tours (4)
• Spring 2024 (39)
• Summer 2024 (71)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (73)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (1)
• Spring 2025 (28)
• Summer 2025 (48)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (41)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (2)
• April 2024 (18)
• May 2024 (44)
• June 2024 (47)
• July 2024 (50)
• August 2024 (68)
• September 2024 (50)
• October 2024 (54)
• November 2024 (9)
• December 2024 (1)
• March 2025 (5)
• April 2025 (14)
• May 2025 (27)
• June 2025 (38)
• July 2025 (36)
• August 2025 (43)
• September 2025 (33)
• October 2025 (31)
• November 2025 (7)
• December 2025 (2)
• March 2026 (5)

Popular Cruise Ships

• Avalon Imagery II from Avalon Waterways
• AmaPrima from AmaWaterways
• Scenic Opal from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Scenic Crystal from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Scenic Pearl from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• AmaCerto from AmaWaterways
• Avalon Tranquility II from Avalon Waterways
• Scenic Jasper from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Emerald Luna from Emerald Cruises
• Scenic Ruby from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Viking Alsvin from Viking Cruises
• Viking Idi from Viking Cruises

Travel Styles

• Luxury (55)
• Singles and Solo (83)
• For Couples (116)
• Seniors (102)

Moselle River Cruises

Highlights der Mosel mit A-ROSA entdecken

Moselle cruises.

Willkommen in Deutschlands bezaubernder Weinregion: dem Moseltal. Von Frankreich kommend schlängelt sich die Mosel in Richtung Nord-Osten durch Rheinland-Pfalz, bis sie sich in Koblenz am Deutschen Eck mit dem Rhein vermählt. Auf dem Rhein, in Köln, starten unsere Moselkreuzfahrten.

Welcome to Germany’s enchanting wine region: the Moselle Valley. The Moselle winds through Rhineland-Palatinate towards the north-east, until it merges with the Rhine at the Deutsches Eck (German Corner) in Koblenz. Our Moselle river cruises begin on the Rhine in Cologne.

They travel towards the south via Koblenz to Cochem. Here you will find a lot to visit and experience. How about a bike tour through the region? You can have take a break to rest in one of the romantic vineyards and taste the wines that are famous all over the country. This will also take care of any souvenirs for your loved ones at home.

Those who are more interested in history also get their money’s worth in this tranquil place. The Roman era, the Middle Ages and recent history – all of it can be discovered here. As well as the enchanting Old Town with its slanted half-timbered houses and the Reichsburg (Imperial Castle), the Bundesbank-Bunker (former bunker of Germany’s Central Bank, 1964-1988) is also worth a visit. This was one of the most secret places in Germany during the Cold War.

Your Moselle cruise then takes you further: to Trier, via Bernkastel-Kues. This city claims to be the oldest in Germany. The Porta Nigra, perhaps the most famous building in this Roman city, originates from 180 AD and was initially built as a city gate. In the Middle Ages, the gate was then turned into a church. There is also the possibility to go on an excursion to the capital city of our small neighbouring country, Luxembourg, which is just as exciting.

The SPA & wellness area and the fitness centre on board provide relaxation after the excitement of the previous days. Treat yourself to a soothing massage or go in the sauna with a view of the green vineyard. In the morning, you can watch fascinating wafts of mist which form in the river valley like a fairy tale and dance in the rising sun.

On the journey back in the direction of Cologne, along the Rhenish Massif and the lush vineyards, we will make a stop in Koblenz, where you can travel up to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress with the cableway. The former site of the German Federal Garden Show (2011) invites visitors to take a romantic stroll; there are a few rarities ready and waiting for plant enthusiasts. Enjoy the colourful variety of flowers and while away the evening with cocktails and entertainment aboard our ship.

Discover Europe with A-ROSA

• River Cruises in Germany
• River Cruises in France
• River Cruises on the Main
• River Cruises on the Moselle
• Belgium and Netherlands
• River Cruises in Portugal
• River Cruises to the Danube Delta

A-ROSA SERVICE CENTER

We are happy to assist you!

Mon - Sat 9AM-6PM

River Cruises on the Moselle with A-ROSA in 2024

Moselle Discovery 2024

From Cologne to Cochem, Trier-Mehring, Bernkastel-Kues and Koblenz to Cologne.

from  € 1,049  pp

Moselle Romance 2024

From Cologne to Treis-Karden, Bernkastel-Kues, Trier-Mehring, Zell, Cochem and Koblenz to Cologne.

from  € 1,499  pp

Northern Rhine & Moselle Experience

From Cologne to Cochem, Trier-Mehring, Bernkastel-Kues, Koblenz, Nijmegen, Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Emmerich to Cologne.

from  € 2,449  pp

A-ROSA Danube Cruises

Rhine / Main / Moselle

Discover the Rhine

Rhône / Saône

A-ROSA Rhône Cruises

A-ROSA Seinekreuzfahrten

A-ROSA Douro Cruises

OUR OPENING HOURS:

Monday - Friday 09:00 am - 06:00 pm CET

Saturday 09:00 am - 01:00 pm CET

USEFUL LINKS

• Arrival & Departure
• Current Information
• Terms & Conditions

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTION JUST CALL US:

+49 (0) 211 274 032 50 

• River Cruises

River cruises on the Moselle

Discover the charm of germany's historic "wine river".

A river winding through a narrow valley, lined on both sides by idyllic towns, majestic castles, enchanting palaces and beautiful vineyards - the Moselle is undoubtedly one of the most charming river landscapes in all of Europe. Like no other river, you can enjoy a unique blend of history, architecture, culture and culinary delights on a cruise on the Moselle. Even the Romans appreciated the beautiful location of the Moselle valley and its excellent climate. With Trier and Koblenz they founded two of the oldest cities in Germany on the banks of the river. Experience over 2,000 years of history in the old town alleys of the two Moselle cities.

The history of wine on the Moselle also goes back to the Romans. They recognized that the soils of the river valley, combined with 1,600 hours of sunshine per year, offered wonderful conditions. It is no wonder that Rieslings from the Moselle Valley enjoy great popularity far beyond the borders of Germany. In addition, some of the most idyllic small towns in western Germany can be discovered on a cruise on the Moselle. The many preserved half-timbered houses, churches, castles and palaces of the towns on the Moselle exude an inimitable charm. On a Moselle cruise with VIVA Cruises, you will get to know this charm both from the water and on land.

• Arrival and departure

City Highlights

Treis-Karden

Beilstein (Mosel) is one of the smaller communities with about 125 inhabitants, but is still one of the most popular destinations in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate. This is due to the fascinating sights and entertaining events, which arouse the interest of vacationers right away. The climb to Metternich Castle is mandatory for numerous tourists during a stay in Beilstein, because they want to enjoy the fantastic view of the small town. The spur castle dates back to the Middle Ages and is open to visitors from April to November daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for the purpose of sightseeing. Another attraction in Beilstein is the Carmelite Church of St. Joseph, which was built at the transition from the 17th to the 18th century in the Baroque style and has so much to offer in architectural terms. The church is considered a place of pilgrimage. This is due to the oldest exhibit in the church, which is the Black Madonna of Beilstein. The Beilstein Fairy Tale Summer is a popular event, which is held every year in July and August in Beilstein. Especially families with children like to visit this event again and again and have great fun with the fairy tale performances of the puppet theater from Cochem, which take place in the wine museum. Beilstein (Mosel) is a highly recommended destination and is considered an insider tip for tourists looking for an exciting vacation spot outside the big cities, mountain and coastal regions.

Whoever travels the Moselle by boat cannot get enough of the lovely landscape with its sunlit vineyards and idyllic towns. The largest - and most historic - towns on the river include Koblenz and Trier. The enchanting little town of Zell lies pretty much halfway between the two. Zell was founded by the Romans in 70 AD. Today it belongs to the district of Cochem-Zell. The places at the Mosel are coined for centuries by the wine-growing; for Zell this applies quite particularly, because it is the second-largest wine-growing municipality of this region. Riesling is predominantly grown here. Well-known and popular is the "Zeller Schwarze Katz". The square tower and the round tower, which are still preserved from the medieval city fortifications, testify to the long history of the city. In any case, it is worth visiting the small old town with its narrow streets and cozy wine bars. Here you can wonderfully enjoy a cool white wine in the sun. Speaking of sun: The Moselle region is one of the sunniest areas in Germany. A stroll along the Moselle promenade is particularly beautiful. From here you can enjoy a dreamlike view of the narrowest Moselle loop with its steep vineyards.

Traben-Trarbach

Description and info of river cruises on the Moselle

The 7-night cruise "Fairytale Moselle" is a combined Rhine and Moselle cruise. It starts in vibrant Düsseldorf, which is not only a paradise for beer drinkers with its Altbier pubs, but also a hotspot of the German art scene with its excellent museum landscape. And the fact that Düsseldorf is a great place to shop is widely known anyway. Across the Rhine, we first head to Koblenz, where the Moselle section of this cruise begins. With Traben-Trarbach and Bernkastel you can get to know two of the most idyllic places on the banks of the Moselle. Afterwards, the cruise takes you to Trier, the oldest city in Germany. Here, the history of the Romans follows you at every turn. Trier's landmark is the excellently preserved Roman city gate Porta Nigra.  After that, you'll head back downstream along the Moselle, and on your way back to the Rhine, you'll still have the opportunity to visit the imposing Imperial Castle of Cochem. On the Rhine section of this cruise, you'll make a stop in the wine town of Rüdesheim before continuing on to Linz am Rhein. Because of its many colorful houses, this small town is also known as the "Colorful Town on the Rhine." Before returning to Düsseldorf, you will visit Bonn, the former federal capital. The university town with its House of History is worth a visit, especially for people interested in history. Click here to get to the voyage: Moselle Fairytale | River Cruise | VIVA MOMENTS | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

Take a cruise along the Moselle River and glide through the lovely landscape of sunlit vineyards and idyllic villages. The "Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle" Beilstein is definitely worth a side trip, the historic town was not given this romantic epithet for nothing.

Beilstein is framed by two streams that have made their way from the heights of the Hunsrück into the valley. Enjoy the picturesque view of the vineyards from the Reichsburg in Cochem and end the trip with a cable car ride over the Rhine in Koblenz. Click here to get to the voyage: Moselle Short Trip | River cruise | VIVA TIARA | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

With 544 km of river length, the Moselle is the second longest tributary of the Rhine after the Meuse, and undoubtedly Bernkastel and Trier are among the most beautiful resorts on the Moselle. It is not for nothing that our romantic Moselle trip will take you exactly there.

In Düsseldorf we cast off and take course up the Rhine to Koblenz, where we then turn onto the Moselle to head for three Moselle highlights in a row with the Art Nouveau town of Traben-Trarbach, romantic Bernkastel and Trier, the oldest city in Germany (16 BC). Follow in the footsteps of the Romans and enjoy culture and history at the most beautiful - namely summer - time of year on one of our most modern ships, the MS VIVA ONE. Come aboard - we look forward to seeing you. Click here to get to the voyage: Romantic Moselle Cruise | River Cruise | VIVA ONE | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

White river landscapes, silent bustle on the water, and you yourself enjoying a hot tea on deck wrapped in a warm blanket - our winter cruises have their very own magic. On this 4-night cruise on the Moselle River, we'll take you to what is probably the most beautiful river valley in Germany. We depart from historic Koblenz, where the Moselle and Rhine rivers meet at the so-called German Corner. Before we leave Koblenz, you should definitely take a stroll through the old town and a ride on the cable car to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, from where you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the city and the rivers, which is a very special spectacle in winter.

First stop on your Moselle cruise is the 150 inhabitants "large" community of Beilstein, which has two tourist highlights to offer with the Metternich Castle and the Carmelite Church of St. Joseph. The dreamy half-timbered houses and old streets in Zell and Bernkastel form a wintry backdrop in November, reminiscent of times far past and you will certainly not forget so quickly - as well as the impressive layout of the Imperial Castle in Cochem, which you should still visit before it goes back to Koblenz. Click here to get to the voyage: Wintry Moselle | River Cruise | VIVA TIARA | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

Whether just for a weekend or a whole week - VIVA Cruises has cruises on the Moselle with a wide variety of itineraries in its program. You don't have to be a wine lover to experience wonderful days of enjoyment on a Moselle cruise with an overnight stay. History lovers will get their money's worth in the many historic towns. Sporty passengers can go cycling in the valley's vineyards or go kayaking on the river. And gourmets can experience some of the best cuisine in the whole of Germany on the Moselle.

VIVA Cruises not only guarantees its passengers an unforgettable experience on board a Moselle cruise with overnight stay, but also takes care of the well-being of its guests even before the trip. That's why the VIVA Cruises team assists all guests on their journey to and from the port of departure. Whether by car, train or plane.

VIVA All-Inclusive: for you only the best

With VIVA Cruises, "all-inclusive" means that you can  relax  and enjoy. Your physical well-being is taken care of with selected meals and drinks. In addition, we offer you relaxing care products. And if you do need a good connection, use our WLAN. For otherwise good connections - especially to our on-board staff - the included tip.

Welcome with a welcome champagne - to a wonderful stay on board

Full board with breakfast buffet, lunch, dinner (multi-course gourmet menus, served at the place) and snacks with free choice of table and flexible meal times

All-day high-quality, cold and hot non-alcoholic beverages, as well as a exquisite selection of alcoholic beverages; take a look at our bar menu.

High Tea: once per trip a selection of sweet and savory treats such as scones, sandwiches, cupcakes, chocolates and macarons. In addition be suitably diverse teas offered.

Daily freshly stocked mini-bar and reusable water bottle on cabin

Selected beauty products from RITUALS

Free WLAN on board - for undisturbed reception

Tipping fees for the entire crew

The right excursions to go with your river cruise

The guests on board our floating premium hotels are all different. That's why we devise an equally diverse excursion program for each of our fascinating itineraries. Whether you're an epicurean, a nature lover, or an art enthusiast, our selection of experiences will open up new perspectives on every voyage.

Arrival and departure to your VIVA ship

With VIVA Cruises you enjoy the feeling of being in the best hands from the very beginning. That's why our service is not limited to life on board, but begins with the preparation of your trip. 

You need a parking space for your vehicle, plan a convenient arrival and departure by train or would like assistance for a suitable flight? 

If you wish, we will gladly take care of your stress-free arrival and departure as well as transfers. Call us: +49 211 274 032 50 or write us an e-mail to : [email protected]

Our berth in Coblenz is usually located at the Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer . You will receive further information with your travel documents two weeks before departure. If you are traveling to Coblenz with your own car, here is our recommendation for nearby parking garages: Underground car park Görresplatz Josef-Görres-Platz Gerichtsstrasse 1 56068 Coblenz Underground car park Görresplatz | Coblenz At the theater Neustadt 30 56068 Coblenz At the theater | Coblenz

VIVA CRUISES CUSTOMER SERVICE

Do you have any questions or want to book a trip? We are happy to help.

+49 (0) 211 274 032 50

Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Saturday 09:00 - 01:00 pm

[email protected]

ALREADY DISCOVERED?

River cruises in other countries

Discover now

Netherlands

• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions

Welcome to your river cruise along the Moselle

The beauty of the moselle.

Sail through Central Europe

A world of experiences

Uncover the moselle river, a quaint and charming life.

Hearty comfort foods

A land of castles and kingdoms

Rolling vineyards

Featured Itineraries

Seek inspiration from our most popular itineraries to start planning your unforgettable voyage. Explore our latest Moselle river cruises offers  today.

Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards

Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises

• Europe River Cruising 2024
• Europe River Cruising 2025

Your guide to Europe river cruising

Stay up to date and be inspired

Yes, please keep me updated with the latest special offers, travel inspiration, product updates, and event invites.

DATA PROTECTION NOTICE

Cookies help us improve your website experience. By using our website, you agree to our use of cookies.

Rhine & Moselle River Cruise

8 days from only $2,799pp

Price Includes

• Cruise Director
• Useful Info

Personalize your Vacation

Ships available.

FREE Superior drinks package on all European river cruises

find out more

The price you see is the price you pay

• Seven nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite, with river views
• Seven guided tours including Cologne, Koblenz, Bernkastel and Trier
• All meals on board from dinner on your day of arrival through to breakfast on your day of departure, including a welcome dinner and the Captain’s Dinner
• Live classical quartet recital on board

Following embarkation in Cologne, we meander south on the Rhine to Rudesheim, visiting the old town of Koblenz and then to Boppard, known as ‘the Pearl of the Rhine’ en route. Cruising through the Rhine Gorge, we experience spectacular scenery, emerald vineyards and a landscape studded with half-timbered houses and picturesque villages.

Our journey then takes us upstream and then along the Moselle river calling in the delightful town of Cochem and the romantic twin village of Traben-Trarbach. At our furthest port of call, Bernkastel, we also visit Trier, the oldest city in Germany, famous for its Roman amphitheater, baths and the imposing Porta Nigra, the huge fortified gate that formed the eastern border of the Roman Empire.

Cruising back downstream, we have time to relax and absorb the stunning scenery along the Moselle valley, rejoining the Rhine and heading north, to Cologne. Here we take a guided city tour seeing the stunning cathedral with the most intricate stained glass in Europe.

All in all a spectacular and relaxing cruise in some of the finest landscapes that Germany has to offer, appreciated from a most privileged vantage point.

Your Itinerary

• DAY 1 EMBARK IN COLOGNE
• DAY 2 COCHEM
• DAY 3 TRIER
• DAY 4 BERNKASTEL
• DAY 5 KOBLENZ & BOPPARD
• DAY 6 RHINE GORGE & RÜDESHEIM
• DAY 7 COLOGNE
• DAY 8 DISEMBARK IN COLOGNE

EMBARK IN COLOGNE

Arrive in Cologne, where your five-star floating hotel is moored in the picturesque historic center. The friendly English-speaking crew will welcome you and help you to your cabin. After settling into your spacious and well-equipped accommodation, it’s time to familiarise yourself with the many first-class aspects of this floating boutique hotel.

The first morning on board a river cruise is always a thrill, awakening to the peaceful lapping of the water outside as the scenic valley sides slip past your cabin window – there’s no other holiday experience quite like it. Breakfast is a leisurely affair; life on board is unhurried, so you can linger over that extra cup of tea or coffee. You’re cruising some of Europe’s most dramatic and romantic waterways – the mighty River Rhine and its tributary the Moselle. The Sun Deck is perfect for an invigorating mid-morning stroll, watching picture-postcard villages with slanting timber-framed houses pass by. 

After a delicious lunch we glide into our moorings at Cochem, the traditional center of the Moselle wine trade, for an afternoon guided tour. Dominating the scene is a multi-turreted castle crowning a vineyard-covered hillside, but Cochem’s real charm is its jumble of narrow streets lined with pastel-colored buildings and peppered with quirky shops and wine cellars. 

There’s ample time to explore here, immersing yourself in the relaxed ambiance of this quintessential riverside town, before stepping back on board to enjoy the chef’s choices for dinner, served in the splendid ship’s restaurant.

Leaving Cochem, we pass through an impressive series of four locks allowing passage further upstream, through meanders in the river against a backdrop of green valley sides. All around are steep, tree-crested slopes covered in a patchwork of vineyards, crisscrossed by narrow tracks and roads giving workers access to the vines – it’s a miracle that anything can be cultivated on such terrain. The Romans first planted vines in the Moselle during the second century AD and today white varieties such as Riesling thrive in the flinty soils. Before long we approach the delightful town of Zell.

After lunch, we drive to Trier for an afternoon tour of one of Germany’s most fascinating cities – and its oldest. Founded by the Romans, it was the capital of much of their empire, encompassing present-day Spain, France, Britain, and parts of Germany. The city had a population of 80,000 people – an enormous number in ancient times – and the Emperor Constantine lived here. Many of its Roman monuments, including the amphitheater, baths, and bridge, have survived surprisingly intact, but most impressive is the Porta Nigra, a fortified gate made of huge stone blocks that towers above the surrounding medieval buildings. This is the largest and best-preserved Roman city gate north of the Alps and stands as testimony to their architectural genius. Such is the significance of Trier’s Roman heritage and its other buildings, including its Cathedral, the oldest bishop’s church in Germany, that together they form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

We return to our ship, moored in the charming town of Bernkastel, in time for another exquisite meal.

After a delicious breakfast on board, join the expert guided tour of Bernkastel town, a romantic wonder from another age. Wander its cobbled streets to the market square, where you’ll be surrounded by ornate half-timbered houses, many dating from the 15th-century. Most famous is the Pointed House, a jewel of the rustic middle-class building tradition from the Middle Ages and a classic example of a Moselle vintner’s dwelling. You might spot the famous Graacher Tor too, built in 1300, the last remaining gate and now home to a museum of local history.

We have lunch on board as the ship slips its moorings and cruises back downstream. This afternoon, sit back on one of the comfortable deck chairs on the Sun Deck and soak up the atmosphere of this magical river, breathing in the clean air, listening to the rippling water and absorbing the scenery. Another gourmet experience awaits this evening in the ship’s restaurant, possibly followed by a nightcap in the company of newly made friends. 

KOBLENZ & BOPPARD

Early this morning, we reach Koblenz. Strategically situated at the confluence of these two great rivers, this 2,000-year-old city, with its mighty fortress towering above, is full of appeal. A knowledgeable local guide accompanies us around its principal monuments and intriguing center, taking in historic squares, highlighting painstakingly restored house frontages and revealing hidden aspects of the city that only locals know. Koblenz is a joy to wander through, pausing to window shop while trying to resist the aromas of fresh coffee and cakes drifting from the numerous traditional cafés.

Returning to our ship for lunch, we proceed to Boppard, also known as the ‘Pearl of the Rhine’ for a guided tour, a famously picturesque town located on a long, looping bend of the river. The black and white spires of the Church of Saint Severus can be seen from a distance, but as we draw closer its bustling quayside comes into view. Captivating cobbled streets, lined by half-timbered houses, tucked-away shops selling traditional goods and characterful restaurants, lead into the town and its main square. Like many riverside settlements in the area, the Romans founded Boppard and their legacy remains in the superbly preserved town walls, the finest in Germany. There’s time to explore or promenade along the river, gazing at views of the vineyard-covered hillsides. Or you can simply pass time on board in anticipation of more fine dining in the ship’s restaurant this evening.

RHINE GORGE & RÜDESHEIM

Leaving Boppard, as the sun crests the surrounding hilltops, expectation rises at what lies in store as we journey through the outstanding natural beauty of the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, at every dramatic turn of the river, towering valley slopes are crowned by the precarious ruins of castles built by princes to display their power and extort tolls from passing river traffic. The Gorge is home to medieval legends, tales of mysterious happenings and dark deeds, most famously the Lorelei – or ‘murmuring rock’ – said to have lured passing boats onto the rocks with its irresistible song. 

The villages drifting by – Saint Goar, Bacharach and Kaub – are synonymous with wine production and one of the many thoughtful details of this cruise is the carefully compiled wine list, from which you can choose fine Rhine and Moselle wines to enjoy with the foods sourced from the region. 

During lunch, we arrive in Rüdesheim, for a guided tour with our local expert. Perhaps the best known of all the wine towns, the picturesque crooked houses slope down from wooded hillsides and terraced vineyards. Meander through the Market Place, Brömserburg Castle and the charming Klunkhardshof, a monumental half-timbered building dating back to the first half of the 16th-century. You’ll also see the Brömserhof, now the home of Siegfried‘s excellent mechanical music museum - a collection of around 350 intricate antique musical instruments and musical boxes from all over the world, many in working order, still playing the delicate sounds of yesteryear.

We slip our mooring early this morning and our ship resumes its voyage downstream as you enjoy another fine breakfast with views of pretty riverside towns, backed by the rolling volcanic hills for which the area is renowned. Passing the last vineyards and half-timbered houses around the pretty town of Linz, it’s not long before we reach the railway bridge at Remagen, captured intact towards the end of the Second World War, thereby arguably shortening the war in Germany.

Not long after, we draw in to the heart of Cologne, in the shadow of the magnificent dual-spired Gothic cathedral for which the city is so famous. It’s a truly monumental building, taking over 600 years to build and featuring myriad religious and art treasures and perhaps the most intricate stained glass windows in Europe.

After lunch, we join a local guide for an informative tour of the city, with time to explore its tree-lined squares and perhaps visit one of its traditional bars, many of which still brew their own beer.

This evening the Captain’s Dinner takes place on board, during which delicious specialties of the regions you’ve visited will be served, hosted by the Captain himself, of course. After dinner, enjoy a final digestif in the bar while reflecting on the memories made on this wonderful cruise through the romantic heartlands of Germany’s most iconic rivers.

DISEMBARK IN COLOGNE

This morning, the crew bids you farewell before you disembark.

Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of single cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement. The price includes:

• Seven nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite, with river views
• Seven guided tours including Cologne, Koblenz, Bernkastel and Trier
• Live classical quartet recital on board 
• Five-star service from an English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides 
• Complimentary on-board tea and coffee 
• Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi
• Services of a Riviera River Cruises cruise director

Meet Cruise Director Anette

Useful Information

• Currency: Euro
• Language: German
• Country: Germany

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship for the duration of your cruise. Please note that speeds may vary.

We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your vacation with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the vacation due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns. 

Enjoy a wine tasting in the Moselle valley - from €12 per person 

Many of the Moselle vineyards we cruise past were first planted by the Romans in the 4th century. Their continued existence proves the enduring quality of the wines, which are testament to a blend of good fortune and an indomitable human spirit. Sample a selection of these with a wine tasting, set against gorgeous wine country.

Both of the above experiences can be booked locally with your cruise director.

You May Also Like

Scroll for more

A PDF copy of this cruise itinerary will be emailed to you. It can be printed or emailed to your fellow travelling companions to assist you in your trip planning.

Your itinerary has been sent!

Thank you. Please check your email to view your itinerary PDF.

Email for an enquiry

Ways to get in touch, success thank you for your enquiry, forgotten password.

Please enter your Email Address below to request a password reset link.

  The form is not valid.

Magazine Download

To download your FREE copy of Discover magazine we just need a few details.

We take your privacy very seriously and won't pass on your contact details to anyone else.

Thank you. Please click below to view the magazine.

Schedule a Call Back

If we are unable to reach you we will leave a voicemail message. We won't try again unless you ask us to.

Request Received

Thank you for scheduling a call back request. We will call the number provided within the time(s) specified.

ACCESS DENIED

You do not have permission to perform this action. For access, please contact the website administrator.

To download your FREE copy of the Guide to River Cruising, we just need a few details.

Thank you. Please click below to view the guide.

You will receive an email confirming your registration shortly.

Vacation added to wishlist!

Sorry, we couldn't update your wishlist.

Please try again, or if this has happened multiple times, check whether your browser is set to allow cookies on this site.

This vacation is already on your wishlist

Would you like to remove it or view your wishlist?

Are you sure?

Are you sure you want to remove this vacation from your wishlist?

Wishlist updated

The vacation has been removed from your wishlist

Your wishlist could not be updated

Something went wrong while trying to update your wishlist. Please try again.

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience

We use cookies and similar technologies on this website for functional, analytical, and marketing purposes., we use first party cookies as part of our site functionality and to analyse site performance and usage. we use third party cookies, from approved and vetted partners, to personalise marketing and advertising. by using this website, you are agreeing to our privacy policy , cookie policy and to cookies being set by this website..

Best Time to Take a Moselle River Cruise (France, Luxembourg, Germany)

Moselle Valley Climate

Autumn cruises on the moselle river valley.

Spring Cruises on the Mosel Valley

Summer Cruises on the Mosel River 

Winter market moselle river cruises, want to go, top france travel destinations.

• French Riviera
• Mediterranean
• Moselle River
• Rhine River
• Rhone River
• Seine River

France Trips by Departure Date

• 2024 France trips (146)
• 2025 France trips (69)
• April 2024 (44)
• May 2024 (81)
• June 2024 (71)
• July 2024 (79)
• August 2024 (78)
• September 2024 (81)
• October 2024 (74)
• August 2025 (43)
• October 2025 (42)

Top Experiences in France

• France Cruises (159)
• France River Cruises (101)
• France Luxury (52)
• France Cultural (43)
• France Food & Wine (38)
• France Barge Cruising (22)
• France Beaches (10)
• France Private Yacht Charter (9)
• France Active (3)
• France Family (3)

France Trips by Duration

• 5 day trips (11)
• 7 day trips (31)
• 8 day trips (64)
• 9 day trips (5)
• 10 day trips (7)
• 11 day trips (13)
• 12 day trips (7)
• 13 day trips (5)
• 14 day trips (6)
• 15 day trips (5)

France Trips by Activity

• France wine tasting (73)
• France village visits (69)
• France biking (67)
• France small ship cruises (55)
• France urban exploration (41)
• France hiking (39)
• France local market visits (38)
• France archaeological site visits (16)
• France small ship sailing (15)
• France christmas market visits (15)
• France cooking classes (7)
• France land & sea exploration (6)
• France wildlife viewing (4)
• France spa relaxation (3)

Why Travel With Adventure Life

Recognized by.

The Valley of the romantic Rhine, the Moselle and the Main

STRASBOURG - FRANKFURT - COCHEM - KOBLENZ - RÜDESHEIM - MANNHEIM - STRASBOURG

Discover breathtaking landscapes along 3 rivers: the romantic Rhine valley, the Moselle and the Main. Impressive and unforgettable, our cruise will let you discover unmissable cities, from old Strasbourg to the Cochem castle, via the Frankfurt Main Tower, the Niederwald monument and Heidelberg.

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

• The combination of three rivers , the enchantment of the Rhine , the grace of the Moselle and the charm of the Main .
• Frankfurt and the Main Tower
• Koblenz , at the confluence of the Rhine and the Moselle

THE CROISIEUROPE DIFFERENCE

• All meals included - DRINKS INCLUDED with meals and at the bar
• Refined French cuisine - Gala dinner and evening - Welcome cocktail
• Free Wi-Fi onboard
• Headsets are included for excursions
• Official welcome from the captain and crew
• Onboard activities
• Travel assistance and repatriation insurance
• All port fees included

Passengers are welcome to board our ship at 6:00 p.m. After comfortably settling into your cabins, we'll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail. Our ship will sail through the night.

Join us for the excursions proposed : CLASSIC : Guided tour of Frankfurt. DISCOVERY : Frankfurt "Mainhattan” and the Main Tower. Panoramic tour of Frankfurt and ascent of the Main Tower. Back on board. Enjoy an evening of entertainment. Our ship will sail through the night.

Morning spent cruising. Join us for the excursions proposed : CLASSIC : Guided tour of the castle of Cochem. DISCOVERY : Panoramic hiking in Cochem.

In the morning, our ship will sail on the Moselle. In the afternoon, explore the old city of Koblenz in the company of our hostess. Back on board.

In the morning, our ship will sail to Rüdesheim. Join us for the e xcursions proposed : CLASSIC : Small train stopping at a wine tasting cellar, followed by a visit to the Museum of Mechanical Musical Instruments. DISCOVERY : Hiking through the vineyards in Rüdesheim.

In the morning, our ship will sail towards Mannheim. Join us on an excursion for both packages : Tour of Heidelberg with a visit to the castle and the old city. Tonight is our gala dinner and evening.

Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services.

Sales Useful info

Included : What you need to know before your departure

Not included Useful info

• Child discount (2-9 years) : - 20%

Shore Excursions

Mandatory information

Formalities Some administrative formalities to take into account in order to prepare your trip

For navigational safety reasons, the company and the captain are the only authorized persons who can modify the cruise itinerary.

(1) Depending on mooring availabilities, the stopover in Rüdesheim may be preceded by a stopover in Bingen ; the schedule of excursions may be modified.

Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.

How to Experience the Best of Germany’s Moselle Valley

When the opportunity presented itself for us to spend 7 days cruising through the Moselle Valley with Avalon Waterways, we jumped at it.

The Moselle River is one of Western Europe’s significant rivers. It originates in the Vosges mountains of northeastern France and meanders through Luxembourg and Germany before joining the Rhine River at the town of Koblenz.

Stretching approximately 339 miles in length, the river has played a vital role in the region’s history and commerce for centuries.

The Moselle Valley, particularly in Germany, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. It is characterized by steep vineyards, quaint medieval towns, and castle ruins perched on hilltops. Historically, the valley has been a crucial transit and trade route, with settlements dating back to ancient Roman times.

One of its significant highlights is the production of Riesling wines, with the region boasting some of the world’s steepest vineyards. Hello, who doesn’t love a good Riesling? I sure do!

Our itinerary started in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg, and ended in Frankfurt, Germany. Along the way, we stopped in Remich, Bernkastel, Traben-Trarbach, Cochem, Mendig, Koblenz, and Rudesheim.

The itinerary delivered everything we hoped it would. Spectacular landscapes, picturesque towns, terraced vineyards, hilltop castles, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the best rieslings in the world, and daily adventures.

Cruising the Moselle Valley with Avalon Waterways

Table of Contents

We took the 7-day Moselle River Cruise in partnership with Avalon Waterways to experience their Moselle Active & Discovery experience.

This tour type is designed to give you more flexibility, and the ability to combine your interests with the ease of group travel. Of course, in an upscale way by river cruising.

The Active & Discovery experience is a reinvention of European river cruising that focuses on being active. The idea is that you spend more time walking, hiking, biking, and exploring than you do sitting on a bus.

Of course, this is right up our alley, and how we already love to explore Europe! Having been to Germany several times, we were also excited to explore a region that is much less visited.

What really sets Avalon Waterways apart is their choice of 3 included excursion types on the Active & Discovery itineraries.

This includes a classic track, active track, and discovery track with the flexibility to mix them up along the way. We were always welcome to forego any of those in exchange for free time as well.

As strong independent travelers, we loved the concept of mixing tracks depending on the destination. We were very excited to see how it would work, as European river cruises are generally associated with a slower pace and only city tours.

The secret’s out, we loved it!

Read on for a full overview of our experience with Avalon Waterways on the Moselle River in Europe.

The Avalon Difference

So, what makes an Avalon Waterways river cruise different from any other cruise? Well, the answer came to me the second we set foot on the ship. They don’t call it the Imagery II for no reason.

The entire ship has floor-to-ceiling windows. There are no sectioned off spaces. No walls blocking your view. Every single space on this ship is designed to give you the absolute best vantage point possible of your surroundings.

The Gorgeous Avalon Rooms

The rooms are beautiful and the suites offer floor-to-ceiling windows that open completely to convert your room into a balcony! They also place the beds to face the giant windows, so you never miss a moment during your cruise.

The Aft Deck is Open to Everyone

They offer a Club on the aft complete with a 24/7 coffee and snack bar. It also featured a vitamin water dispenser and a water bottle refill station.

The club allows you to sit inside, again with floor-to-ceiling windows – or you can enjoy the back deck. In all the river cruises we have taken, six to date, we have never been able to visit this space.

We learned during our orientation that this space is normally reserved for high-end suites in other ships. With Avalon, they opted to make it a public space for all to enjoy, which was really appreciated.

Daily Included Happy Hour

Yes, you read that correctly. Every day, Avalon Waterways offers an included happy hour for all guests. The selection includes a nice selection of mixed drinks, cocktails, wine, and beer.

It’s worth mentioning that they also include delicious wine and beer, along with non-alcoholic drinks at all meals.

Day 1 – Arrival in Luxembourg & Transfer to Remich

We actually flew into Luxembourg a day early and spent a night at the Le Royal. This gave us time to explore the city before joining up with our Avalon Waterways itinerary. Luxembourg City was just as charming as we remembered from our previous visit in 2017.

We were also told you could fly into the Frankfurt airport and transfer to Remich from there.

Our morning was relaxed and allowed us to catch a late breakfast before grabbing a transfer from the hotel to Remich to embark on the Imagery II.

Our afternoon was spent getting settled on the ship, walking along the river, enjoying happy hour, dinner, and an introduction to the week ahead.

Day 2 – Remich, Luxembourg and Trier, Germany

Our second day started with a lovely lunch in the panoramic dining room and a reasonable departure time. We would be spending our morning exploring the quaint port town of Remich, Luxembourg.

Long considered the ‘Pearl of the Moselle’, it is a small town that rests on the border triangle of Luxembourg, France, and Germany. It’s a place that offers sweeping panoramic views of green spaces, vineyards, and classic European architecture.

From then on, we were officially immersed in the German wine country !

Hiking the Vineyards of Remich

The valleys that line the Moselle River are particularly known for wine production, and Remich is no exception. Seeing as one of the major draws to Avalon’s Active & Discovery cruises is the chance to get out and move, we opted to start our exploration with the Active option.

This would have us joining a hike from the port, through the city of Remich, and up into the steep vineyards above the city center. Leaving the ship, we set off on foot through the small town, learning some history along the way.

As we climbed up and away from the river, we found ourselves surrounded by rows of grapes that contribute to the famed Moselle wines. Not to mention the beautiful views of the town below us.

It was here that our tour guide shared some of the wine history of Remich with us, ultimately leading us to the small family winery of L&R Kox for a wine tasting.

This medium-sized winery has been a family business for over 100 years, and they strive to offer roughly 50 different varieties of wine! In contrast, most wineries offer an average of 8 varieties. This has to do with their ability to grow several types of grapes and experiment with mixing them.

While we of course sampled from the famed staple of Riesling, we also enjoyed several varieties of white wines including the pinot blanc varieties.

I have to say we enjoyed the sparkling Crémant de Luxembourg the most. This sparkling wine, like champagne, is produced only in Luxembourg under strict rules and is only available in the Moselle region.

Highlights of Ancient Trier

After enjoying a relaxed afternoon sailing on the Moselle River, we arrived in the oldest city in Germany , Trier. This city was the northern territory capital of the Roman Empire for more than four centuries, earning it the title ‘Rome of the North’.

Today the city features some spectacular, and well-preserved ancient world sites, including Constantine’s Throne Room.

We were bussed from the port to the city center where we set off on foot to explore and learn about this ancient city. This beautiful old city is a fascinating blend of half-timbered houses, stone structures, and modern German architecture.

Our highlight was undoubtedly seeing the massive Porta Nigra. This is a well-preserved Roman city gate that now holds UNESCO World Heritage status. Seeing it up close in the beautiful evening light was a magical experience.

Day 3 – Bernkastel and Traben Trarbach, Germany

Heading into our third day, we enjoyed a relaxed morning. This meant enjoying the views along the Moselle River and a later breakfast. By 10 a.m., we had arrived in one of the sparkling gems of the Moselle Valley, the town of Bernkastel.

Bernkastel Walking Tour

While this walking tour was part of our hike up to Landshut Castle, I feel it’s important to share more about this town! We’ve been to Germany many times before; however, this was our first experience in one of its classic half-timbered villages.

The small towns in the Moselle Valley have a completely different feel to the ones we’ve explored in Bavaria.

Bernkastel, with its ancient marketplace, feels like a journey back in time. Architectural marvels like the Town Hall highlight the town’s Renaissance-era significance.

The uniqueness is further emphasized by buildings like the Spitzhäuschen. This structure dates back to the 15th century and almost seems to defy architectural norms with its design.

Beyond architecture, the town’s essence is deeply tied to wine. The Moselle Wine Museum offers a history of winemaking in the region and celebrates Bernkastel’s role in that history.

Hike to Landshut Castle

After our walking tour of the town, we began our hike to Landshut Castle. We followed a trail from town that would take us through a beautiful park and up to the castle ruins.

We passed through towering trees, a lush forest, and a waterfall as we navigated a consistent grade to the top of the hill.

As we approached the top, the trees began to thin, and we suddenly found ourselves surrounded by vineyards. This is when the castle came into view. The hike took our group around 40 minutes to reach the top from the town center.

At the top, the ruins of Landshut Castle offered us some incredible panoramic views of the surrounding area. At this point, our guide disappeared. He then suddenly reappeared dressed in a costume to begin our tour of the castle.

We learned that Landshut Castle boasts a history that stretches back to the 9th century. It served as a place of refuge and defense, playing a significant role in the region’s tumultuous past. Over the centuries, it has witnessed numerous conflicts, changes in rulership, and the ebb and flow of empires.

Unfortunately, in 1692, a devastating fire reduced much of the castle to ruins. Despite its battered state, Landshut Castle remains a symbol of the region’s rich heritage. It offers visitors a glimpse into medieval life and the strategic importance of riverfront castles in the Moselle region.

Leaving the castle, we descended on a different path. This time down the steep slopes through thick rows of grape vines and back to the river Moselle.

Top Deck BBQ

Arriving back on the ship and learned that the Sky Grill would be open! This meant one thing, we would be able to enjoy a top-deck BBQ complete with good old-fashioned American hamburgers.

I feel this is worth mentioning mainly because it is unique to river cruising in Europe! Also, it was just a fantastic experience overall. We enjoyed a traditional BBQ atmosphere. The wine was flowing, and we were able to enjoy unobstructed views of Bernkastel and the Landshut Castle.

Traben Trarbach Evening Visit

After a relaxed afternoon of sailing, we arrived at another town along the Moselle River. The story of Traben-Trarbach is a tale of two towns, bisected by the Moselle but united in spirit.

Historically significant in the wine trade, Traben-Trarbach’s prosperity in the early 20th century is reflected in its Art Nouveau structures. This gives the town a unique architectural identity.

But amidst this modernity, the Bridge Gate stands as a relic from medieval times. It offers a stark contrast and a window to the town’s varied history.

So of course, we had to hop off the ship after dinner to explore a little! There wasn’t an organized tour, but we were able to explore on our own.

We just wandered to town along the river promenade and enjoyed some of the unique architecture of the town.

On our way back to the ship we spotted a beaver swimming in the river which only added to the awe of witnessing one of the most spectacular sunsets we’ve seen in a long time. It was the perfect way to end our day in the Moselle Valley.

Day 4 –  Cochem, Germany

Day four started with rest and relaxation as we spent the morning just cruising along the Moselle River. This meant we enjoyed a sleep-in, and late breakfast, followed by coffee on the top deck. This is the best place to enjoy the views.

After lunch, we arrived in the charming German town of Cochem.

Walking Tour of Cochem

Cochem is a historic town located on the banks of the Moselle River. While the star of the show is the Reichsburg Cochem Castle, we really enjoyed our walking tour.

Cochem’s old town is characterized by its traditional half-timbered houses and narrow winding alleys both of which offer insights into the town’s medieval heritage.

Our walking tour highlights the most prominent buildings, squares, and shops while allowing us time to admire the beautiful architecture. Being able to enjoy a walking guided tour in each port in addition to our selected activity was certainly a highlight of our trip!

Reichsburg Castle Visit

After our walking tour, we hopped on a small bus to traverse the winding and steep road up to the Reichsburg Castle for a private Avalon Waterways tour.

The medieval castle was initially constructed in the 12th century and was rebuilt in the Neo-Gothic style in the 19th century after falling into ruins.

Today, you can visit this beautifully restored castle both on the inside and outside. Our tour took us through the many rooms, parlors, and courtyards while our guide offered fascinating stories and history about the people who occupied the castle through the years.

We’ve toured a lot of castles in Europe, but this was one of the best preserved and impressive castles that we’ve seen. Their collection of artifacts and period furniture was also extensive.

It was easy to imagine what it would be like to live there, enjoying the courtyards, gardens, and stunning views over the Moselle Valley.

Day 5 – Koblenz, Germany

Day five started early for us, as we had signed up for the optional excursion to Mendig to learn about the massive volcano that sits beneath the surface in Germany. Who knew?!

In the afternoon, we would rejoin the regular itinerary in the popular destination of Koblenz. Today we would also officially enter the Rhine River, as Koblenz sits at the confluence of the Moselle and Rhine rivers.

Something worth noting, if an excursion is offered to visit the Burg Eltz Castle during your stop in Koblenz, we would highly recommend that you take it. The is one of the most famous fairy tale castles in Germany , yet it sees far fewer visitors than others.

Magma and Monks in Mendig Optional Tour

This optional excursion ended up being extremely interesting and we were glad that we opted to do it. After leaving the ship, we headed for the town of Mendig, where we would pay a visit to the Lava Dome.

This interactive museum gave us a fascinating history of the volcano region of Germany. We learned about the earliest volcanic history up until the present day, including that a supervolcano essentially resides beneath this region.

Part of the museum visit includes a show that recreates a volcanic eruption, along with an immersive newscast show to demonstrate how catastrophic another eruption would be in the current era. It was an interesting museum; done in a way we haven’t seen before.

Following the museum visit, we walked down the street for a visit to the Lava Cellar. This basalt cave system was formed during early eruptions and was later discovered when the area was settled.

While it was originally used as a basalt mine, the consistent temperatures lent the cellar to be the perfect place for storing beer, so it was transformed in the mid-19 th century.

After resurfacing, we learned more about the mining history of the basalt caves. Many of the tools sit as a living museum to this day.

As our guide shared stories, we enjoyed locally baked German pretzels and bottles of the famous Vulkan Beer.

We ended the tour with a visit to the Maria Laach Abbey, a German Romanesque monastery that was founded in 1903. Monks still reside here, producing handicrafts and growing organic agricultural products.

Overall this was one of the most fascinating day trips we’ve taken in Germany. Seriously, who knew there was a sleeping volcano under Germany?

Lahnstein Brewery Tour

Despite this trip focusing on the famed German wine valleys, we couldn’t visit Germany without enjoying some of its famed brews, too! This is how we ended up in the picturesque village of Lahnstein, a place filled with narrow lanes and picturesque half-timbered houses.

It is here that we enjoyed a full tour and tasting at the Lahnsteiner Brauerei. This local brewery was founded in 1667 and is a 10th generation owned brewery with proud brewing traditions blended with new craft brews.

While they brew a nice beer, the most intriguing part of our visit was that the brewery actually resides in and around an old castle! The family purchased and restored the property as their main brewery, and our visit came with a tour of the towers.

Touching back on craft brews, Lahnsteiner Brauerei is one of the leaders in breaking from German traditions with beer and experimenting with brews like sours, IPA, and fruit-infused drinks. It will be interesting to see how this scene progresses in the German beer industry in the years to come.  

Day 6 – Rudesheim, Germany

Day six started with another slow morning, followed by a spectacular scenic sail through the Romantic Rhine Gorge. This stretch of the Rhine River features beautiful views of castles, vineyards, villages, and natural landscapes.

The beauty of the Rhine River is undeniable, so it’s easy to see why it’s a popular choice among river cruisers in Europe. The fact that we were able to experience the quiet charm of the Moselle River before joining up with the Rhine, is what really made this trip so sweet.

After enjoying a traditional German lunch on board, we arrived in Rudesheim, Germany.

Rudesheim Cable Car Experience

Rüdesheim’s cable car ride is an experience that offers a scenic journey from the heart of the town to the Niederwald Monument, set atop the hill.

Additionally, we were pleasantly surprised that the cable cars are not enclosed! So, you have open views all around you and no dirty windows.

As the car glided above the vineyards, we were treated to panoramic views of Rüdesheim, the Rhine River, and the surrounding landscape.

Arriving at the top we were met with rain, but it didn’t deter us from taking in the impressive Niederwald Monument, a symbol of German unity. There are plenty of trails at the top, too, along with cafes and souvenir shops.

Our visit was short because there was little shelter from the rain, but we made the most of it before heading back down to explore the town.

Exploring Rudesheim on Foot

After the cable car experience, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to spend some time exploring Rudesheim. This charming wine town is set on the banks of the Rhine River in the Rhine Gorge and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The hallmark of this town is the Drosselgasse, a vibrant and narrow alleyway filled with wine taverns, traditional shops, and live music.

We spent the better part of 2 hours wandering the streets, window shopping, and stopping in for live music at various places before heading back towards the ship.

As we got closer to the dock, we came across a lovely wine garden on the banks of the river. We stopped in for a delicious glass of crisp Riesling, and it was seriously one of the best wines I have ever had! We enjoyed the atmosphere and mingled with the locals before heading back to the ship.

Day 7 – Frankfurt, Germany

We have been to Frankfurt so many times, yet we have never actually been to Frankfurt. This is because one of our main routes when flying east is from Chicago to Frankfurt. I’m talking probably 50 times or more, yet we’ve never left the airport.

This time, we would actually see a bit of Frankfurt for a change! It would be our last official day of cruising the Moselle Valley, Moselle River, Rhine Gorge, and Rhine Valley.

Frankfurt Bike Tour

We couldn’t finish our trip with Avalon Waterways without experiencing one of their signature ways of exploring, by bike. So, we opted to join a guided bike tour around Frankfurt. Spoiler, we loved it!

While we love to bike, and often do a lot at home, we tend to stay away from bike tours when we travel. Simply because we find it easier to take photos and videos while walking. But it was invigorating and fun to pedal around the city and explore the various districts.

Frankfurt is often seen through the lens of its modern skyscrapers and as the host of the European Central Bank. It rarely makes it on people’s lists of must-see European cities. But we quickly learned that it has a historical depth that you shouldn’t overlook.

Our tour took us through both modern and historical Frankfurt, showing us iconic buildings like the Romer, the city’s old town hall, and St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral with its towering spires.

We visited the historical town square, with its colorful houses and classic old German architecture. In contrast, we pedaled over new-age bridges and admired the towering skyline of modern Frankfurt, too.

Frankfurt’s duality, where ancient meets modern, made it a fitting culmination to our journey through the Moselle Valley. I also must say, that I am hungry to return and spend a few days really digging into what Frankfurt has to offer in sites, history, and culinary delights.

Day 8 – Departure Day in Frankfurt, Germany

When we woke up on the last morning, I was immediately reflective of the week we had just experienced. What a joy it was to discover a part of Europe that is not bursting at the seams with tourism. I honestly thought this was something we may never again experience.

It left me refreshed, and hopeful that the tourism love will continue to be spread into some quieter and deserving corners.

We grabbed our last breakfast, said our goodbyes to new friends and staff, and then hopped in a transfer to the airport for a flight back to the Midwest. Auf Wiedersehen, Europe, and until next time.

Our journey along the Moselle River was part of a paid partnership with Avalon Waterways. However, all opinions, stories, advice, and love for Riesling are 100% ours, as always.

You might also like:

• When is the Best Time to Visit Europe? (Not when you think!)
• Ultimate Europe Travel Planner
• The Only Europe Packing List You Need (For Any Season!)

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Mosel River Cruise and Charming Bernkastel Day Trip

By: Author Jim Vail

Posted on Published: 2 November 19  - Last updated: 1 January 24

Home » DIY Travel » Germany » Mosel River Cruise and Charming Bernkastel Day Trip

Are you looking for one of the most charming things to do in Germany? Riding on a Mosel River cruise and exploring the beautiful town of Bernkastel is what you are looking for. Check out our recommendations!

No visit to Germany would be complete without a visit to the Mosel River Valley, taking a Mosel River cruise and a fantastic Bernkastel day trip. The stretch of the river that runs between Trier and Cochem, the middle Mosel, is one of our all time favorite drives in the country, maybe even the world.

I know that sounds over the top, but the terraced vineyards climbing precariously up the steep valley walls, the crumbling towers and fortress ruins overlooking the river, and the quaint half-timbered villages along the banks make some seriously picturesque vistas.

Read our most popular articles on Germany! – Winter in Germany – Bavarian Christmas Markets ( + Itinerary) – Variations of Schnitzel – 5 Things You Didn’t Know about the Hofbrauhaus (Munich) – Fairytale Rothenburg and its Christmas Market

Also, in our opinion, the food and wine from the Eiffel region and the Mosel Valley in particular is some of the best the country has to offer. Whether you decide to take in the views through the windshield of your rented BMW, from the seat of your tandem bicycle, or sipping wine as your river boat cruises slowly on the water, we think you’ll fall in love with the Mosel River Valley as well.

Things To Do Around Bernkastel

About half way between Trier and Cochem lies Bernkastel, right in the heart of the middle Mosel. This is one of the most charming villages on the river. The town has survived throughout the ages with its roots going back to Roman times.

Most of the buildings in town, however, are younger than that having been built in the late middle ages about 400 years ago. And Bernkastel has it all. Multi-storied half-timbered buildings, castle ruins, vineyards perfect for hiking , outside cafes, beer gardens, river boat cruises, and some of the best festivals.

Bernkastel Day Trip

It doesn’t really matter which time of year you come, spring, winter, summer, or fall, Bernkastel old town is ready to show off everything the season has to offer. The flower boxes go up on the windowsills in early spring and bloom all through the summer and late into the fall.

Once the weather turns colder, however, the flower boxes come down and the pine garlands go up transforming the town into a Christmas dream. The narrow lanes and alleys leading to surprisingly open squares that with bubbling fountains, cozy cafes, half-timbered buildings leaning crookedly over the street, and a wineshop or too offering some of the best of the local Riesling.

Some of the main places to see in Bernkastel are:

• Historic Market Square
• Spitzhäuschen
• Graachertor
• Bear fountain
• Candy Maker
• Castle Ruins
• Mosel Wine Museum

Start your walking tour of the old town in the historic market place. While the weekly farmers’ market no longer takes place here, this is the heart of the town and special events may be set up throughout the year.

The market itself is surrounded by some of the most impressive fachwerke (half-timbered) buildings and a richly ornamented fountain in the center of the square. Just off the square besides the Rathaus (town hall), is the Spitzenhausche, or little pointed house, that is the most charming tiny half-timbered house anywhere. Step into the street-front wine bar to try some local vintages.

Leaving the marktplatz, wander along Romerstrasse towards the Graachertor. Shops, wine bars, and restaurants offer up pleasant distractions but the the richly decorated and colorful buildings are the real draw here. The tower itself was built in the 1300s as one of the old arched entries into the town and holds a small museum and a restaurant.

From here the vineyards beckon where walkers can climb up above the town for a view of the rooftops and the river below. Coming back into the town I always take the time for a stop at the historic candy-makers shop in the upper part of the old town. I love to watch the candy being pulled and stretched, molded and shaped, and cut into delectable bite size pieces.

Mosel Wine Festivals

We love a good wine festival, and the best one of all, our favorite is the Middle Mosel Winefest. Held on the first weekend of September, over our Labor day holiday, the Middle Mosel Winefest is a bucket list must.

It starts out with a fabulous parade, has food and wine booths set up all over town, and then a fantastic fireworks show in the evenings. The parade of vintners gives local growers the chance to show off the quality of their wines as they wind through the left bank town of Kues, across the bridge over the Mosel, and then into Bernkastel.

Hold up a tasting glass and try some free samples as the parade marches by. Be careful, though, Mosel wine is clean, semi-sweet, and fruity; easy to drink, maybe too easy when your glass is being constantly refilled. I had never been to a festival where free wine was dispensed in this fashion, and it was so much fun.

Carnival rides and games, festival food, and of course wine tasting is all on offer. The real highlight, though, is the fireworks display each night in which the illuminated battle takes place between the fortress above and the river below. The attacker starts to volley shots at the castle, it retaliates, and the grand finale is the castle burning down. I think I’ve been four or five times, and I still love it!

Other Mosel River Valley Wine Fests

If you can’t be in the Mosel Valley for the big Bernkastel fest, don’t despair, there’s sure to be something going on somewhere along the Middle Mosel region almost any weekend. For example, on the last weekend in May, the town has “Open Wine Cellar Days” when local vintners open their cellars, set up booths, and get to know their customers.

Another of our favorites is the Zeller Long table festival with its 300 meter long festival table winding through the center of the village. No matter what, however, there is sure to be wine tasting, wine festivals, or open wine cellar days on any given weekend throughout the spring summer and fall in one of the villages and towns along the Mosel between Trier and Cochem.

Bernkastel Christmas Market

If you’ve come to Germany for the Christmas markets , you won’t want to miss Bernkastel. The Old Town Bernkastel Christmas Market begins in the last week of November and runs to just before Christmas. Be sure to see the largest advent calendar in the Mosel river valley in the window of the apothecary on the old town market square.

Shop for traditional hand-made Christmas gifts, munch on some sugar roasted almonds, sip on mulled wine, and watch the wonder in children’s eyes at this magical festival. If you’re feeling adventurous, go on the Saint Nicholas Walk, a ten kilometer walk through the city with the jolly old elf himself, with stops along the way for mulled wine, hot chocolate, and other treats.

Other Boat Trips You Might Enjoy around the World: France: The Scandola Nature Reserve Sweden: Tall Ship Sailing Croatia: Rowing on Lake Bled Turkey: Lake Van Botswana: Chobe National Park Uganda: The Kazinga Channel USA: San Juan Island, Washington

Castles on the Mosel

The Mosel River Valley isn’t quite as richly populated with fortresses and castles as, say, the larger and more popular Rhine valley. And it is that small, quaint feeling that makes the Mosel that much better than the Rhine.

Sure they both have castles, wine, half-timbered houses, but the Rhine is more industrious and bigger in every way, including the tourist crowds. Still, there were a few robber barons along the river banks of the Mosel. Not much remains of most of these forts but even the craggy ruins present a romantic landscape as you wind your way down the river.

One of these typical old ruins is the Burgruine Landshut sitting high above Bernkastel and overlooking the the sweeping curves of the middle Mosel river. Vineyards stretch off into the distance and the shining tiles of the town roofs lie below.

Hiking up to the ruins is a bit of challenge, but the views once there are definitely worth the climb. Take a break in the onsite restaurant in a renovated part of the castle ruins and enjoy the vista laid out before you.

In Cochem, however, is one of the few rebuilt castles along the river. Cochem castle is a real stunner, perched atop a hill in the center of town overlooking the river.

The original castle was built in the middle ages and survived in some form or another until French occupying forces under Louis the XIV burned it to the ground in the late 17th century. The castle was rebuilt in the Neo-Gothic style popular at the time in 19th century as a family residence.

Today Cochem Castle opens its gates for visitors around the world looking for a glimpse into life in Medieval Europe. It houses a large collection of renaissance and baroque furniture and art that can be viewed on one of the 40 minute guided tours.

Power tip: If the climb up to the castle is out of the question, why not hop aboard the vintage bus, Burg Landshut Express, and let the driver do the work for you. Enjoy the view and ride in an old restored bus? Yes, please!

Mosel River Cruise And Boat Tours

Perhaps the most enjoyable way of  seeing the Mosel river valley is take a ride on one of the short river cruises. There are a variety of options for getting out on the river. There are one-hour trips that will take you out of the town a, around the bend and then back to town, intended to give the visitor a view of the surrounding countryside from the water.

Then there are half day trips that will float down river around a bend or too past a few towns and castles, and then back to the starting point. There is enough time on these trips for a glass or two of wine and a small meal aboard. Very cozy, very comfortable, very relaxing.

Longer full day trips can take you from one location on the river to another town where you can disembark, explore, and then return to the boat for a ride back down to the starting point. Check your schedule and makle time for at least a short ride on the river to get a real feel for what life was like moving slowly along the flowing water. 

When is the Best Time To Go On A Mosel River Cruise?

As we’ve said, there’s no bad time to visit the Mosel river valley. However, Fall is, by far, the most popular, and for good reason. Late summer and early fall bring the best weather to the region.

The days are getting shorter, true, but the weather is beautiful and perfect for long hikes or treks along the river or up into the vineyards. The terraced vineyards clinging to the steep slopes of the valley are changing colors carpeting the hillsides in brilliant yellows oranges and reds. Of course, this is harvest time, so don’t be surprised to see local townspeople climbing through the vineyards harvesting grapes for the next years’ wine.

More importantly, this is wine festival season. Vintners are showing off their best at open wine cellar events, festivals, parades, or just on the side of the road. Stop and say hi, meet the locals, and enjoy a glass of crisp, white Mosel wine. Just be sure and have a designated driver.

Bernkastel Tourist Map

Where To Eat

The Eiffel region is the first part of Germany that we ever lived, and we fell in love with its food, especially schnitzel and unique wines. One of our favorite spots in Bernkastel is on a small hill between the old town and the Castle. The Schützenhaus offers some of the best meals and views of the town, vineyards and river below. Sit out on the terrace with a glass of white wine and a cheese plate.

Another great meal can be found at the Am Doktorberg on the edge of the old town tucked away under the vineyards climbing out of the village.

Where To Stay

Most visitors to Bernkastel come for the day and then leave in the afternoon. This makes for some pretty crowded times, especially on the weekend. However, spending the night here should not be missed.

Once the day crowds leave the town becomes much quieter, the vineyards are more inviting, and the whole town is transformed into a twinkling medieval village right out of a fairytale.

How To Get There

Getting around Germany is easy thanks to the excellent and efficient public transportation system. However, there are no trains running through the Mosel so you’ll need to take a bus into the valley.

Otherwise, we always recommend driving yourself. Having your own car allows for last minute changes, a chance to just follow the road, or make an unexpected turn to a new, unplanned adventure.

These are the often the best experiences. Leave the B-49 at Alf to continue up river on the B-421 and then B-53 to make your way to Bernkastel-Kues. Parking can be found in most towns and villages right on the river banks. Expect to pay a small fee of 2-5 euros.

From Frankfurt

By public transportation.

Travel by train to Wittlich and then transfer to the 301 bus direct to Bernkastel-Kues.

Follow the A-3 autobahn in the direction of Cologne (Köln) and switch to the A-48 at exit 39 (Dreieck Dernbach). Stay on the A-48 to exit 4, Kaisersech and head south following the signs to Cochem.

In Cochem get on the scenic route B-49 and wind away upriver towards Trier. Feel free to stop as often as you like along the river for photos, walking, exploring castle ruins, or just being amazed at the scenery. Notable stops along the way are Cochem and Traben-Trauerbach.

Travel by train to Wittlich, and transfer to the 301 bus and ride into Bernkastel-Kues. The old town is just across the bridge from the bus stop.

Take the B-53 northeast and follow the river as it winds its way downstream to Bernkastel-Kues. Notable stops along this stretch of the river are Piesport and Mülheim. Overall driving time from Trier along the river is about one hour. Longer if you stop more often for photos and wine shopping in the small towns along the way.

Where Does The Mosel River Start And End?

One year we were feeling adventurous and decided to take a longer road trip along the Mosel river. We had been to the Deutsches Eck in Koblenz where the waters of the Mosel and Rhine rivers merge. But we had never been up river past Trier. We climbed in the car and took off up river to find the source of the Mosel.

A little past Trier the Mosel takes a turn to the south and forms part of the border between Luxembourg and Germany. Still further south the river runs right into France. By now we realized the scenic parts of the river were behind us. The steep valley walls, vineyards and castle ruins disappear as the land turns to flatter, rolling hills of farmland.

The Mosel river starts as a small spring in the Vosges mountains in the Alsace region of France which, coincidentally, is one of our favorite parts of France. The total length of the river is about 240 kilometers.

The Mosel valley is one of the 13 major wine regions in Germany. It produces mostly white wine using the Riesling grape in a variety of qualities and types. Breaking down all of the intricacies and minutiae of the German wine classification system is a bit too much for this article.

It is important to note, though, that Mosel wine has a slightly sweeter and fruitier quality than most but can be found in a variety of sweetness levels. Typical Mosel wines can be Trocken (dry),  Halbtrocken (half dry), or Liebling (sweet). With athe amount of sugar largely depending on the harvesting of the grapes. Spätlese (late harvest) is a semisweet wine while Auslese (select harvest) is sweeter still.

Later harvesting yields an even sweeter dessert wine known as Beerenauslese made from overripe grapes. One specialty wine the Mosel is known for is Eiswein which is made from grapes that have been allowed to remain on the vine until the first frost. This is a very delicate sweet wine, definitely give it a try while visiting the Mosel region.

As with most things in life, I’ve found my wine preferences have changed over the years. When I first moved to Germany (long ago) my love for wine started with the sweeter fruitiness found in the Auslese wines.

Later, with a little more maturity, I found the dry Halbtrocken Spätlese more to my liking. Now, it’s the drier Trocken Kabinett that I go for almost every time. Regardless of where you are in your own personal wine journey, however, you’re sure to find something to your liking in the Mosel wine region.

Germany is known for its castles, half-timbered houses, medieval cities, festivals, and food, wine and beer. Perhaps the one most accessible region in Germany that has the most to offer in all of these categories is the Mosel river valley. Maybe that’s why the area has always been on the top of our list of places to visit in Germany. Maybe it has got more to do with the beautiful scenery, or calming influence of the slow moving river. No matter what, I find myself being drawn back to the Mosel river and Bernkastel-Kues over and over again.

Author Bio: Jim Vail , is a travel, food, and video creator and a perpetual traveler who has been travel writing for over 15 years. For many years he lived overseas in Germany, Japan, Turkey, South Korea, and the Netherlands, and he’s visited over 90 countries.

Pin the Mosel River 

If You Enjoyed the Mosel River, Check Out These Articles

A Visit to the Oldest Monastic Brewery in the World, Weltenburg Abbey

Gliding Across Lake Königssee, Germany

Discovering The Magnificent Bastei Bridge in Germany

World Heritage Sites - Wartburg Castle, Germany

Splashing About The Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival, Germany

Our Guide To The Top Open Air Museums For Kids In Germany

If you Like Nuremberg, Check Out These Articles

Germany travel blog.

Electric Boat Rentals Bumping Through Giethoorn, Netherlands

The Amazing Fishing Boats of Marsaxlokk

Gondola Training - It's All Wine and Boats

Vineyard-filled vistas, traditional taverns and crumbling castles – this cruise introduces you to the oh-so-romantic towns and landscapes of the Moselle Valley.

TUI RIVER CRUISES - THE MOSELLE VALLEY: VINES & VIEWS

Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

Moselle River Cruises