rhine valley road trip

Driving Germany's Rhine: Upper Middle Valley

If you've rented a car in the Rhineland on your adventure through Germany and want to drive along the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, there are a number of great destinations along the way.

For the purpose of this guide, your journey will begin on the German Wine Road in Rhineland Palatinate, which should take a couple of days to explore.

Next, we'll take you up the Autobahn A 61 to Bingen, the gateway to the dramatic natural landscape of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley—a UNESCO world heritage site —which stretches 40 miles from Bingen to the city of Koblenz.

Your subsequent drive along the route B9 through the river valley follows the loops and sways of the Rhine through terraced vineyards. As you travel, you'll see castles perched on steep hills, some of which are in ruins but most are picture-perfect homes to museums, restaurants, and even hotels.

For some excellent photo opportunities, make sure to stop at the Maeuseturm (right behind Bingen) and at the castles of Rheinstein, Reichenstein, and Sooneck.

Bacharach: A Well-Preserved Medieval German Town

The recommended next stop is the city of Bacharach , one of the best preserved medieval towns in Germany. To get your bearings, we recommend taking a walk atop the 600-year old city wall with its original guard towers (one of them houses a hotel), then meandering through the streets of the village which are filled with historic timber-framed houses.

There is no shortage of good and atmospheric restaurants in Bacharach; look out for a "Weinstube," a traditional wine tavern, which serves regional fare and wine from the steep vineyards surrounding the town. Also try to stop at the timber-framed restaurant “Altes Haus” from 1368, the landmark of Bacharach and one of its oldest buildings.

We typically recommend only a day in this city, but if you want to stay a little longer here, how about spending the night in a castle? Castle Stahleck, which towers over Bacharach, has been turned into a hostel—a fantastic option if you travel on a shoestring (private rooms are available).

There are also a number of other fantastic castle hotels in Germany, so do your research before you embark on your journey through the Rhineland so you can best determine whether or not you want to stay in Castle Stahleck or continue your adventure.

The Lorelei Rock

From Bacharach, follow the Rhine until you reach Koblenz ; after a visit at Castle Stolzenfels, built in the 13th century and beautifully renovated to its original splendor, you can cross over to the other side of the Rhine to spend the night in Braubach’s "Landgasthof Zum Weissen Schwanen” (Inn to the White Swan). Located right behind the former village tower, the hotel is set in a former mill from the 13th century; you can even see the preserved wooden mill wheel, which is displayed inside the timber-framed hotel.

From here, it is just a short drive to Germany's famed Lorelei, an impressive slate rock, which soars almost 400 feet above the Rhine and is the site of many famous German legends and folktales.

The Lorelei marks one of the narrowest and deepest sections of the Rhine—a treacherous spot that caused many boat accidents up to the 19th century. According to the legend, the beautiful siren Lorelei was sitting on top of the rock and lured sailors to their deaths.

The best way to experience the majesty of the Lorelei rock is certainly by boat. Many towns along the Rhine offer day trip cruises (such as Bacharach, Braubach, or Koblenz). You can also drive up to the top of the Lorelei to get some good views of the region and buy some souvenirs in the Lorelei Visitor’s Center .

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How to explore germany’s romantic rhine valley: itinerary & tips.

The Romantic Rhine Valley is fairytale Germany, an intoxicating mix of legend, history and beauty. Slicing through forested hillsides and terraced vineyards, the Rhine meanders past idyllic towns and villages with half-timbered houses and Gothic church spires, and medieval castles built by a mafia of robber barons.

The 40-mile stretch of the Rhine Valley between Bingen and Koblenz – the Upper Middle Rhine Valley (Oberes Mittelrheintal) – was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2002. Also known as the Rhine Gorge , this is the highlight of Rhine River cruises.

But do you know that you can explore the Rhine Valley towns, villages and castles without forking out for an expensive river cruise?

Hit the ground running with my tried and tested three-day Rhine Valley itinerary and guide. There’s all you need to know about how to get around, where to stay and the prettiest places to visit

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

• Day 1: Boppard
• Day 2: St. Goar and Rheinfels Castle
• Day 3: Bacharach and Oberwesel

Recommended places to stay

• Über den Dächern Boppards
• Bellevue Rheinhotel

How to get around

IN THIS ARTICLE

What is the Romantic Rhine Route?

The Romantic Rhine route stretches south from Cologne to Mainz. However, the prettiest section of the Rhine River is the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, between Koblenz and Bingen / Rüdesheim.

How I Visited Germany’s Rhine Valley

I explored the Romantic Rhine as a solo traveller, basing myself in the lovely town of Boppard. Over three days, I used river boats and trains to visit St. Goar, Rheinfels Castle, Bacharach and Oberwesel.

How to Get to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley

The Upper Middle Rhine Valley is easily accessible by rail. High-speed trains connect Koblenz and Mainz to Cologne , Frankfurt and beyond

Where to Stay in the Romantic Rhine Valley, Germany

Make it easy on yourself. When exploring the Rhine Valley pick a base and stick with it.

You don’t want to be changing accommodation each night and the distances between the towns and villages along the prettiest stretch of the Rhine River are not huge.

In my view, Boppard is the best place from which to explore the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. It is served by the regional express and the RB or “milk train.”

Thanks to its position on one of the bendiest bands of the Rhine, Boppard is one of the most scenic places in the Rhine Valley. It is also one of the few towns and villages along the Rhine where the railway line doesn’t dissect its attractions and the river.

Boppard is small enough to retain its charm but big enough to support the facilities of a proper town. And if that’s not enough, this is the major wine producer in the region.

A close second is Bacharach . This is a pretty gateway to the Rhine, but it is considerably smaller than Boppard and is cut off from the river by the railway line.

If there is no room at the inn in either Boppard or Bacharach try St. Goar . This is the smallest of these three Rhine Valley bases and is overlooked by the magnificent Burg Rheinfels, one of the mightiest and most accessible castles on the Rhine.

Where to Stay in Boppard

As there is not a huge choice of centrally–located accommodation in Boppard, book as early as possible.

Mid-range apartment: Über den Dächern Boppards

I used this lovely apartment in the centre of Boppard as my base for exploring the Romantic Rhine Valley. The balcony overlooking the market square was a fabulous bonus.

>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES

Splurge: Bellevue Rheinhotel

This landmark Art Nouveau hotel is the swankiest joint in town. Its riverbank location is unbeatable.

If you can’t find somewhere to stay in Boppard, search for accommodation in Bacharach here or St. Goar here .

Getting Around the Rhine Valley Germany

It’s easy to get around the Upper Middle Rhine Valley by train, boat or bike.

Exploring the Rhine Valley by train

The railway line linking the villages and towns on the Rhine’s left bank (e.g. Boppard, St. Goar, Oberwesel, Bacharach and Bingen) is one of the great train journeys of the world. Hourly trains serve every station between Koblenz and Mainz.

It takes 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete the entire journey. Regional express and high-speed ICE trains, which stop at a handful of stations along the line, make this journey in as little as 50 minutes.

I say take the slower train, sit back and enjoy the ride.

You can check train times and prices on DB’s website here .

A Rhineland-Palatinate ticket (Rhineland-Pfalz), valid for unlimited travel for one day on all local transport, is also available. This may be better value, particularly if there is more than one person travelling. Find out more h e re .

The Rheingau Linie connects communities on the Rhine’s right bank, including Rüdesheim. You can interrogate timetables he r e .

Exploring the Rhine Valley by boat

Although the Rhine Valley train line is undeniably scenic, travelling between its communities by boat trumps it in the romance and relaxation states. Think of it as a DIY Rhine Valley cruise.

Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) is the king of the Rhine passenger ship operators. From Easter to October, its vessels link Rhine villages and towns on a set timetable. In winter, its services are less frequent.

Even in high season, these Rhine boat services are not rammed. There is no need to book ahead. Simply buy your ticket from the dock up to 5 minutes before the boat’s departure.

KD boats have three decks; a lower enclosed deck with air-conditioning, a middle deck which has shade and an upper sundeck. There is a friendly waiter service on board and an audio commentary in English and German.

In theory, you can use this as a hop-on hop-off boat service. However, in my experience, the service operated too infrequently for this to be of much value.

Also, it can take considerable time to travel between the villages. For example, the upstream journey between Koblenz and Mainz takes over eight hours. Downstream, this journey time is cut to around six hours.

This is fine if you are just looking for a relaxing river cruise. But it doesn’t leave much time to explore any of the towns and villages along the Rhine River.

KD also operates mini-cruises on the Rhine . See what they have on offer here .

Other operators that ply the pea-green waters of the Rhine River Valley include the Loreley Line and Bingen-Rüdesheimer .

Exploring the Rhine Valley by train and boat

A better option is to combine train and boat to explore the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, going by river one way and taking the train back. To save time, travel downstream by boat (i.e. towards Koblenz) and upstream by train.

A Rhine Valley road trip

But perhaps you are planning a Rhine Valley road trip. If you are driving, you can reach the Rhine Valley by autobahn from either Frankfurt in the south or Cologne to the north. The B9 road cradles the curves of the river between Koblenz and Bingen.

Exploring the Rhine Valley by bike

Hardy cyclists are a common sight in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. In most towns and villages, you can rent a bike for the day.

One of the best sections for cyclists is between Bingen and Bacharach where a bike path hugs a scenic section of the Rhine.

German trains accommodate bikes, subject to available space.

Crossing the Rhine River

No bridges cross the river between Koblenz and Mainz. Instead, small family-run car and passenger ferries cross-cross the Rhine about every three miles.

Some of the most useful connections are between St. Goar and St. Goarshausen, and between Bingen and Rüdesheim.

Exploring the Rhine River on an organised excursion

Another way to see the Rhine Valley is to join an organised excursion. This is a good option if you are not staying in the Middle Rhine Valley, are short on time or simply want someone to take care of all of the arrangements for you.

Day tours are also one of the best ways to meet other travellers . This can help to prevent loneliness if you are travelling alone.

Here are a few options to consider:

Rhine Valley Castles Boat Tour from Rüdesheim

This highly-rated 90-minute boat trip from Rüdesheim takes in the castles and scenery of the Middle Rhine Valley.

>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK THE PRICE

Rhine River Cruise from Frankfurt

Choose between a half-day or full-day trip to explore the Rhine Valley from Frankfurt which includes Loreley and Rüdesheim.

Upper Middle Rhine Valley Castle Boat Tour from Koblenz

This two-hour boat trip concentrates on the Rhine Valley sights around Koblenz, including the famous Marksburg Castle

When is the Best Time to Visit the Rhine Valley?

The best time to visit the Rhine Valley is between April and October. At this time of year, the weather is warm and reliable and the river boats are operating a full service.

I toured the Rhine Valley in July when the temperatures were balmy and visitor numbers were not huge. If you want to avoid the crowds of the summer months, consider visiting in spring or autumn when temperatures are still mild. Winter months can be chilly, some restaurants and hotels will be closed and the riverboats operate a scaled-down service.

A 3-Day Rhine River Itinerary: Four Scenic Places to Visit

Using Boppard as your base, this Rhine Valley itinerary allows you to see the best of this spectacular corner of Germany in three days. Epic scenery, Gothic churches, medieval castles, dramatic castles and wine-tasting; there is something for everyone.

DAY 1: BOPPARD

Have a relaxing first day of your Rhine Valley itinerary exploring your home for the next three days. Boppard is not only an excellent base from which to explore the Rhine Valley, but it is also a wonderful destination in its own right.

Hugging the river and surrounded by rolling hills and forests, this tranquil small town is rich in history, with well-preserved half-timbered houses, Gothic churches and Roman remains.

Best things to do in Boppard

• Visit the Church of St. Severus
• Stroll along Boppard’s Rhinefront promenade
• Admire the town’s medieval buildings
• Take the chairlift to Sesselbahn for sensational views (not for the faint-hearted!)
• Explore Boppard’s Roman legacy by visiting the best-preserved fort in Germany
• Go wine-tasting

DAY 2: ST. GOAR & RHEINFELS CASTLE

Although St. Goar is a charming town in its own right, its calling card is the magnificent Rheinfels Castle ( Burg Rheinfels ). This is one of the largest and best-preserved castles on the Rhine River and one of the most accessible if you don’t have a car.

How to visit St. Goar and Rheinfels Castle from Boppard

I took the scenic route from Boppard to St. Goar by KD boat. This leisurely journey took 90 minutes, passing other famous landmarks, including the Hostile Brothers Castle, Burg Maus, Burg Katz and the Loreley.

From St. Goar, follow the red and white signs for the nature route that winds its way up through terraces of trees to Rheinfels Castle. This walk takes around 15 minutes.

If you don’t fancy the hike, you can hop on the Burg-Rheinfels-Shuttle, which runs every half hour from St. Goar.

Your admission fee includes an excellent map and guide (although there are guided tours, these are in German). The castle has a good museum with information in English.

When it’s time to head back to Boppard, jump on the next boat. The journey time is around an hour.

DAY 3: BACHARACH & OBERWESEL

Bacharach and Oberwesel are two other Rhine Valley towns known for their well-preserved half-timbered buildings and scenic location.

How to visit Bacharach and Oberwesel from Boppard

I took the train from Boppard to Oberwesel from Boppard. Alternatively, you can travel along the Rhine by boat but factor in travelling time and consider completing the day trip by train.

Best things to do in Bacharach

• Explore Bacharach’s riverside park
• Visit the Protestant Church with its garish capitals
• Take in the town’s half-timbered buildings, including Altes Haus and Old Mint
• Climb the Tall Tower for awe-inspiring Romantic Rhine views

Best things to do in Oberwesel

• Check out the Marktplatz
• Walk along some of the best-preserved town walls in the Middle Rhine Valley
• Learn more about local history at the Kulturhaus and Stadtmuseum Oberwesel
• Visit the “white church” (St. Martin’s Church)
• Relax in the Town Wall Gardens (Stadtmauergarten)

My Experience in the Rhine Valley as a Solo Traveller

The Rhine Valley is a fabulous destination for those travelling alone, even novice solo travellers. With its show-stopping scenery, historic towns and villages, storybook castles and delicious food and wine, there is something for every solo traveller. The region’s excellent public transport infrastructure makes it easy to explore. Safety is at the forefront of female solo travellers’ minds and the Rhine Valley is a safe destination with low levels of crime. At no point in my visit did I feel unsafe. That said, as with any destination, women travelling alone should take standard safety precautions , such as keeping valuables safe and avoiding dark and isolated areas at night.

The Romantic Rhine is 100% Worth Visiting!

This is one of my favourite destinations in Germany. Its landscape of vineyards, rolling hills and picturesque villages is hard to beat. Home to numerous castles, fortresses and other sites, the region has a rich cultural and historical heritage.

For the outdoor enthusiast, the Rhine Valley offers ample opportunities for hiking, cycling and kayaking, to name but a few activities. If wine tasting is more of your thing, this region is rightly famous for its wine, particularly Riesling.

Above all, find a space in your Rhine Valley itinerary for a boat trip. Even if you don’t have time to spend a day on the river, spending just a few hours on one of these boats will make your trip to Germany truly memorable.

Finally, if you have found this article helpful, check out my other guides to these Rhine Valley destinations:

• 12 Best Things to Do in Boppard, Germany
• How to Visit Burg Rheinfels, Germany: King of the Rhine Castles
• 16 Unmissable Things to Do in Bacharach, Germany & Beyond
• 12 Wonderful Things to Do in Oberwesel, Germany & Beyond

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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5 day itinerary of Germany’s Upper Middle Rhine Valley

With its steep-sided banks lined with pretty half-timbered buildings and topped with medieval castles, it’s no wonder that UNESCO declared the 65 kilometer stretch of the Rhine River from Koblenz to Bingen/Rudesheim a World Heritage Site.

This stretch of the Rhine, known as the Upper Middle Rhine Valley (sometimes just called the Rhein Valley), is jaw-droppingly beautiful and offers plenty for the visitor to see and do.

It’s a popular destination for river cruises and many of Europe’s best tour companies visit the region as well – but it’s also perfectly suited to independent travellers.

What's in this Article

Self-drive itinerary of Germany’s Upper Middle Rhine Valley

[ This post may contain compensated links. Please see my  disclosure policy  for more information. ]

The following five-day itinerary of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, Germany, is based on my own self-drive road trip and can be easily adapted to suit your own interests.  

With the region located very close to Frankfurt, a visit to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley is a popular day trip from Frankfurt. In fact, it’s only 90 minutes by road from Frankfurt to the Rhine Valley. ( Click here for details of an organised day tour . ) 

Although I travelled by car, this Rhine Valley itinerary could also be travelled by train. 

Cologne is also a good starting point for the Upper Middle Rhine Valley.  If you’re travelling with your family, this post on Cologne with kids is worth a read.

Upper Middle Rhine Valley Map:

Day 1: Frankfurt to Boppard

Distance: 115 kilometres / 90 minutes by car, or 90 minutes by train

After travelling from Frankfurt, arrive in Boppard and check in to your accommodation. I chose an apartment at Bellevue Rhein Hotel, with a balcony overlooking the Rhine, for my four-night stay. Click here for current prices.

Spend the remainder of your day wandering around the town centre and strolling along the riverside promenade.

Wondering where to eat in Boppard?   The Severus Stube serves hearty, traditional German meals including pork knuckle and Wiener schnitzel, whilst the Bellevue Rhein Hotel’s Le Bristol restaurant offers a good a la carte menu featuring some German favourites in a more formal setting.  I enjoyed excellent meals at both restaurants.

Day 2: Exploring Boppard

After a leisurely breakfast, head to the local Tourist Office (on Market Square ) for sightseeing ideas and maps, explore the shops or visit some of the historic buildings in town.

The Bodobrica Roman Fort , a short walk from Market Square, dates back to the fourth century when Boppard was one of the most important Roman settlements on the Middle Rhine. Although only the ruins of this magnificent structure remain today, it is possible to see what an obstacle it was to potential invaders.

With walls up to ten feet thick and boasting twenty horseshoe-shaped towers, the original fortress covered around 4.7 hectares.

The 55 metres of walls that still stand today are considered the best preserved in Germany.

The twin-towered St. Severuskirche , a 13th century Catholic church, is worth a visit to admire the frescoes inside.

If you wander along the riverside promenade you’ll notice the Elector’s Castle . Initially serving as a fortress to control the town, then a toll station for traffic on the Rhine, today it houses a museum.

The museum contains an exhibition on the town’s medieval and early modern history as well as an extensive collection of bentwood furniture by Michael Thonet, a Boppard local who invented this popular style of furniture.

To work up an appetite before dinner, why not hire bikes and ride along the path that runs beside the Rhine? Bikes and e-bikes can be hired in town. (See the Tourist Office for details).

TIP: Although it’s touted in Boppard’s tourist brochures as one of the attractions of the area, I’d give the Hunsruckbahn a miss. This is a train that travels over the Hunsruck mountains behind Boppard to Emmelshausen, along a line that passes over two viaducts and through five tunnels and promises ‘spectacular views’.

As the railway line goes through forest for much of the trip, I found the views mostly to be blocked by trees and the trip certainly wasn’t as picturesque as the brochure had described it.

On the return journey from Emmelshausen, we disembarked at Buchholz and planned to follow the Hunsruckbahn Wanderweg (walking path) back to Boppard. The brochure promised some good viewing points of the viaducts along the way but we somehow took a wrong turn and ended up on a scrubby, overgrown path that looked rarely used.

We did find our way back to Boppard but were disappointed with the signage along the path.

Day 3: Explore the towns of Bacharach, Oberwesel and St. Goar

Distance: 55 kilometres Boppard to Bacharach and return by car / Trains also run on this line approximately hourly, stopping in each of the towns mentioned

The banks of the River Rhine are dotted with gorgeous villages watched over by castles that are worth a visit.  Today you’ll be touring the Rhine by car,  heading as far as Bacharach , the furthest village from Boppard that you’ll visit today.

As soon as you enter the village of Bacharach through a gate in the old town walls, you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.

The village, with a population of just 1800, is wedged between the Rhine River and steep hills planted with grapevines, and is proudly watched over by Burg Stahleck fortress .

Despite its small size, visitors flock to Bacharach to admire the fairytale-like medieval half-timbered buildings which line the cobbled streets. As you wander the streets you almost expect Hansel and Gretel to appear from the ‘gingerbread’ houses!

To enjoy the best views of Bacharach, join the Footpath Stahleckpfad from the Church of St. Peter and climb the one hundred steps to Werner Chapel , a ruined 13th century chapel.

From there the path continues on to Burg Stahleck , once an important castle and fortress and now a Youth Hostel. A visit here is one of the most popular things to do in Bacharach, Germany as the views over the Rhine and the surrounding vineyards from the courtyard are magnificent.

If you are in need of a reviving drink after the steep walk to Burg Stahleck, the café sells drinks and light refreshments.

It’s possible to walk along part of the original town walls and if you follow the signs from the castle to Steeger Tor , you’ll trace the footsteps of Bacharach’s former residents.

Steeger Tor is just one of the numerous original town gates in Bacharach. The path along the town walls continue on from Steeger Tor, beneath steep slopes planted with grapevines. A climb up the Postenturm (tower) rewards you with great views.

Back in Market Square in the village centre, you’ll see why Altes Haus (the ‘Old House’) is one of the Rhine’s most famous half-timbered buildings. Its brightly coloured façade attracts attention and it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a meal or a drink when you visit Bacharach.

Like to stay the night in Bacharach? Click here for accommodation prices in Bacharach.

Your next stop is the village of Oberwesel , just seven kilometres from Bacharach. The town itself is very neat and compact and offers a few sights worthy of a look.

The medieval town wall, with its 16 fortified towers, is the best preserved in the Middle Rhine region. The wall has been restored over the centuries and it’s possible to walk along large sections of it.

For a town with a population of just over 2,000 you’d hardly expect it to be home to a church as magnificent as the Church of Our Lady . The Gothic exterior is impressive enough but it’s inside that the real treasures can be found.

The walls of the Church are adorned with 25 original medieval paintings, and the interior also features the golden altat, one of the oldest high gothic shrine altars in Germany.

Also in town are the ruins of a Franciscan monastery and a Culture Museum, but the highlight for many – and a must-see when you visit Oberwesel – is Schönburg Castle .

The castle sits high on a hill overlooking Oberwesel and is best reached by car. There is a walking path from the town but it quite steep.

Schönburg Castle dates back to the 12th century but was destroyed in the late 17th century. In 1885 a German-American banker fell in love with the ruins and restored the castle to its former glory. Today it houses a Youth Hostel and a hotel and is regularly featured in lists of the 10 best castle hotels in the world.

Guests of the hotel have access to a private garden but anyone visiting the complex can visit the Tower Museum which is housed in an old gate tower. The top level of the tower is an observation deck providing the views that helped Schönburg’s former residents to defend the castle in years gone by.

If you’re looking for a unique place to spend the night with incredible views, this is definitely of the best places to stay along the Rhine River in Germany.

You don’t need to be staying the night at Schönburg Castle to enjoy the gourmet meals on offer. The restaurant serves both lunch and dinner in two beautifully furnished rooms, and on the terrace (weather permitting). (Closed on Mondays and limited opening times mid-October to mid-January.)

Like to spend the night at Schönburg Castle?   Click here to check current prices here.

TIP: I highly recommend you make Schönburg Castle your lunch stop today. I enjoyed a sumptuous lunch on the terrace overlooking the Rhine. The meal and the views won’t be forgotten in a hurry!

Just seven kilometres from Oberwesel is the town of St. Goar . Like Bacharach, Oberwesel and Boppard, it sits on the western bank of the Rhine.

St. Goar’s main claim to fame is the Lorelei rock , which is just upstream from the town. The Lorelei is a steep slate rock face on the eastern side of the rivee that has inspired many myths and poems over the years.

The most popular myth comes from Heinrich Heine’s 1824 poem “Die Lorelei”, in which he describes Lorelei as a female siren with golden hair. According to the poem, Lorelei sits on the cliff above the Rhine combing her hair and singing, and unwittingly distracts shipmen, causing them to crash on the rocks.

The Lorelei is best viewed on a Rhine River cruise (see more details below).

Another of St. Goar’s attractions is the Rheinfels Castle . Built in 1245 to protect the town’s tax collectors, the castle is the largest on the Rhine.

The sheer size of the castle and its labyrinth of tunnels and trenches (many of which can still be visited today), saw it withstand many attacks over the centuries. Whilst Schonburg Castle was destroyed in 1689 by Louis XIV’s troops, Rheinfels Castle survived.

A museum, located in the former chapel, showcases the military history and cultural importance of Rheinfels. The castle is open daily from early March until late November. Visit the official website for opening hours.

It’s worth spending a bit of time wandering the town’s medieval streets – where you’ll find plenty of touristy souvenirs – but to me the town centre doesn’t have the same ‘kerb appeal’ as Bacharach or Oberwesel.

End your Rhine road trip for today by returning to Boppard.

The video below was taken as we cruised past St. Goar and St. Goarhausen on our Rhine River cruise.

Day 4: Rhine River Cruise and amazing views of the Rhine Bend

During your stay in Boppard you will have seen plenty of river cruise ships plying the Rhine with many of them docking in town for the night. The views from the river give you a real appreciation of the steep banks on either side and the number of castles (many now in ruins) that were built to defend the waterway.

Two-and-a-half hour Upper Middle Rhine Valley cruises depart a couple of times a day from the dock on Boppard’s promenade, travelling as far as the Lorelei (just past St. Goar) before returning.

This is a leisurely way to see the Middle Rhine Valley from the water.

Returning from your cruise, it’s time to see the river from above again and enjoy two of the most spectacular views available.

There are two ways to reach the viewing points at Gedeon’s Corner – either by car or by chairlift. The chairlift ( Sesselbahn in German) starts at the Muhltal station and in 20 minutes you are whisked up over the vineyards to a height of 240 metres.

Just a couple of minutes walk from the top station, you’ll find Gedeon’s Corner viewing point where you get spectacular views of the largest bend on the Rhine.

From Gedeon’s Corner, walk a few more minutes to the Four Lakes View . As the Rhine winds its way through the hills, it appears as four separate lakes rather than a river.

Both viewing points are well signposted and each has a restaurant (with outdoor dining in fine weather) where you can sit and admire the views over a drink or something to eat. A great way to finish your day.

Video: Views of Boppard and the Rhine from Gedeon’s Corner.

Day 5: Boppard to Frankfurt via Kaub and Rüdesheim

Distance: 131 km by car / by train, first travel to Koblenz then to Rüdesheim

Check out of your accommodation and head along the route you travelled on day 3. A few kilometres past Oberwesel you will see the Engelsburg – Kaub ferry crossing point.

The car ferry crosses the Rhine very regularly and within 10 minutes will have you disembarking one the eastern bank at Kaub. The one way fare for a standard sized car and two passengers is around €5.50.

Just after leaving Kaub, you get great views of Bacharach perched on the opposite side of the river. There are a couple of lay-bys where you can pull in to take photos but they are a bit difficult to see, so keep your eyes peeled.

Continue on to Rüdesheim , a larger town and one that’s a popular stop for river cruise ships. Although likely to be pretty busy with tourists, Rüdesheim is well worth a visit.

Wander up the old town’s main street, Drosselgasse , which is lined with traditional wooden buildings adorned with pretty wrought iron and gold signs. The narrow cobbled street is barely wide enough for four people to walk side by side, and is home to a range of souvenir shops, eateries and wine cellars.

At the top of Drosselgasse you’ll find Oberstrasse, home to numerous hotels and restaurants, a range of shops – including a Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas Shop – and the starting station for the Seilbahn (cable car) to Niederwalddenkmal .

> Click here for a map of Rüdesheim

I highly recommend you catch the cable car and spend some time at Niederwald, a beautiful park above Rüdesheim. Here you can admire the beautiful views over Rüdesheim, the vineyards and the Rhine, and visit the Niederwald-Denkmal.

The Niederwald-Denkmal is a UNESCO-listed monument built in the late 1800s to commemorate the unification of Germany after the Franco-Prussian War. Standing 32 metres tall, the monument can be seen from a long distance and is the landmark of the region.

You can either return to Rüdesheim the same way you arrived (by cable car) or take the ‘ring trip’ which includes a chair lift ride over vineyards to Assmannshausen and a boat trip on the Rhine back to Rüdesheim.

If you’re ready for some refreshments before you set off for Frankfurt, stop in at the lovely Rüdesheimer Hof Hotel on Drosselgasse. In good weather you can enjoy a meal or a drink in the courtyard, whilst the restaurant is open year round.

The Rüdesheimer Hof Hotel is also a great choice if you prefer to stay overnight in Rüdesheim. Click here for current prices.

After exploring Rüdesheim, make your way to Frankfurt, just 66 kilometres away, to end your five-day self drive Rhine Valley visit.

More things to do in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley

Visit the rhine castles.

There are a huge number of Rhine Valley castles and you can visit many of these on your Rhine River Itinerary. Aside from Schonberg and Rheinfels Castles mentioned above, a couple of the more popular ones that are open to visitors include Lahnstein Castle and Marksburg Castle.

Keen walkers can hike the Rhine Castles Trail for 200 kilometres between Bingen and Koblenz.

Wine Tasting

The banks on either side of the Rhine provide the perfect growing conditions for grapes, with 65% of the vines producing Riesling.

Local wines are readily available at restaurants and wine bars, in specialty wine shops and cellars.

From Rudesheim, you can enjoy a 1.5 hour Rhine cruise with wine tasting with a local winemaker.   Click here for more information and prices

Day trip to Cologne

The city of Cologne is easily reached on a day trip from Boppard.

Cologne’s impressive cathedral, Kölner Dom , is the main attraction but there are also numerous interesting museums (including a chocolate museum), and an attractive Old Town.

To reach Cologne from Boppard you have the following options:

By car: 123 km / 1 hour 20 minutes

By train: 1 hour 30 minutes

How to get to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley

As mentioned above, the region is easily accessible by both car and train. Another option is to travel on one of the Rhine River ferry services operated by KD Line ferry which runs from April to October between Mainz and Koblenz and stops at 28 towns and villages along the route.

This ‘hop on hop off’ ferry offers a relaxing way to travel along the Rhine.  Click here for more info and current prices

If time is limited and you only have a day to visit the Rhine Valley, you could join an organised day trip from Frankfurt.   Click here for prices and details

Where to stay on the Rhine

Where to stay in Rhine valley Germany : I stayed in an apartment at Residence Bellevue, a sister property to Bellevue Rhein Hotel. The apartment block is located about 150 metres from the hotel itself and both properties are located on the river promenade. 

Although called an apartment, there were no cooking facilities (just a sink, tea/coffee facilities, fridge) but breakfast was available at the hotel’s restaurant.  Our apartment was quite roomy with a separate bedroom and a balcony overlooking the Rhine. I was very happy to have chosen this as my Boppard accommodation.

Click here to check current prices for Residence Bellevue  and for Bellevue Rhein Hotel here .

You can read my review of the Bellevue Rhein Hotel apartment here  

Final Thoughts

I absolutely loved my visit to Germany’s Upper Middle Rhine Valley. The picturesque towns and villages all had their own charm and it was very relaxing watching boats cruise along up and down the Rhine River.

I hope my Rhine Valley itinerary has convinced you to embark on your very own Rhine Valley tour.

For more Germany travel inspiration,  read our Germany travel guide .

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Carolyn's love affair with Europe started on her first visit over 30 years ago and it continues, just as strong, today. She visits Europe annually and enjoys writing about her discoveries and sharing her tips with fellow travellers.

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You are here: Home » Experiential Travel Guides » Rhine Valley 3-Day Itinerary: On and Off the Beaten Path

Rhine Valley 3-Day Itinerary: On and Off the Beaten Path

Last Updated on February 4, 2023 by Audrey Scott

Through sunny days and fog, famous towns and little known ‘burgs, wine cellars and village vintner festivals, this was our time on the segment of the Rhine River known as the Romantic Rhine in Germany.

Half-timbered homes sit as the foot of cobbled streets. Vineyard paths wind into the hills. And foggy moments as castles disappear and re-emerge on hilltops hint at history.

If you have a fear of missing out on the must-see bits of the region, but long for a taste of the lesser-seen local experience, then this article and guide to the Upper Middle Rhine is for you.

Here is all the information we would have wanted to know before our road trip to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley , the 67-km UNESCO World Heritage segment of the Rhine River from the towns of Bingen and Rüdesheim north to the city of Koblenz at the confluence of the Rhine and Mosel Rivers.

Table of Contents

Rhine Valley Itinerary and Places to Visit

We traveled on the Rhine River from south to north, beginning in the town of Bingen and ending in Koblenz. Our recommendation is to spend at least three full days in the area. Ideally, give yourself more time so you can visit the area at a relaxed pace, leaving times for walks and hikes, a bicycle ride, and a few unexpected stops.

We visited the area in just over two days and found our pace a bit rushed so we would suggest at least three days to visit the following places.

Bingen am Rhein

We confess that we timed our visit to coincide with the Bingen 11-day wine festival , the longest such festival in the region. What makes this wine festival especially fun is the feel of locals enjoying their own wine and community.

On the evening we spent in Bingen, absolutely everyone was in the streets enjoying the local product — even the mayor, who wanted his photo taken with us.

Many of the local wineries set up stalls on the various squares across town. We recommend that you ask to taste a few wines before selecting the one you wish to commit to by buying a full glass.

This region is mostly known for whites – Riesling, Silvaner, Weissburgunder, and Grauburgunder. Show your curiosity and flash a few smiles. This will likely yield generous samples and a lesson on the different grapes in the area, the characteristics of this wine region, and the varietal in which the vineyard you are chatting with specializes.

Book a hotel in Bingen am Rhein

Just across the river from Bingen, the town of Rüdesheim is the traditional favorite with Rhine River cruise passengers. It's easy to understand why. Rüdesheim’s collection of half-timbered homes and narrow alleyways stuffed with shops make it feel like you’ve stepped into the set of a Grimm Brothers fairytale. Hopefully one with a friendly ending.

Rüdesheim is also a wine town — more specifically of the Rheingau wine region — and is famous for its Rieslings and Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir). There are vineyards spread throughout and surrounding the town.

We suggest that you try one of the terroir Rieslings , called as such for the distinct influence of the local soil and terrain noticeable in some of the wines. Taste a couple of terroir style Rieslings side by side and you'll begin to understand how the expression of a single grape can be influenced by the various minerals present in a specific patch of soil.

Rüdesheim gets busy with visitors, especially with river cruise passengers in the daytime. However, it begins to clear out a bit in the late afternoon and early evening. Consider spending the night here so that you can enjoy the feel of the town without the crowds.

Things to do in Rüdesheim:

Cable Car to Niederwald Monument : Highly recommended. A lot of fun to soar above the vineyards and gaze across the hills to the Rhine River below. At the top, take a walk over to the Niederwald Monument for even more views over the city and river valley. Cost: €7 roundtrip.

Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet : Although we had our doubts — a museum full of mechanical music devices sounds a little yawn-inducing — our host’s excitement about the place motivated us to visit. The history of mechanical musical instruments — including contraptions like full air-powered symphonies in giant organ-sized boxes complete with single-stringed mechanical rotating violins — is almost unbelievable, particularly in light of how much we take for granted about the production of sound and music in today's technology landscape. Cost: €6.50 (includes tour)

Boat Ride from Rüdesheim to see Rhine River Castles (1.5 hours): Traveling the Rhine River by boat is one of the best ways to see the Rhine Valley and its dramatic castles perched high on cliffs. This 1.5 boat ride will take you past Rheinstein and Reichenstein Castles (Trechtingshausen), the fabled Mouse Tower of Binger Loch, and the ruins of Ehrenfels Castle. This is also a beautiful way to take in the Rhine Valley small towns and terraced vineyards all around.

Book a hotel in Rüdesheim

Lorch, a sleepy working wine town, proved our unlikely favorite spot along the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. It wasn’t the most aesthetically pleasing town we visited and we were only there overnight, but there was something about the feel and personal nature of the place that we really enjoyed.

Maybe it was our morning run through the misty vineyards above the river and town that made the whole area feel mysterious, as if the clouds were hiding secrets.

Perhaps it had something to do with the fact that Lorch wasn’t very touristed and featured a slow, relaxed pace. The personal touch and attention also helped, including at a family-run hotel in a converted schoolhouse (the owner went to school there as a child) where we stayed the night.

Top that off with a last-minute decision to drop in on the Perabo winery restaurant for a some appetizers and local terroir wines. A great way to spend an evening.

Kaub am Rhein

The morning drive from Lorch to Kaub is one to take slowly, pulling the car over at every overlook to catch views of castles on hilltops across the river. Kaub itself is a small medieval town that looks over Pfalzgrafenstein , a colorful 14th century castle on an islet set in the middle of the river.

We skipped going inside the castle in favor of a quick walk through town to pick up a coffee and morning snack — all before hopping the car ferry to Bacharach. Try to get here in the morning before 11AM, as we saw bus tours arriving around that time.

Bacharach is another absurdly cute town on the west bank of the Rhine. Among the more sight-loaded towns in the region, Bacharach also features a 1000 year-old castle (Burg Stahleck) perched high on the hill.

Our recommendation: find the walking path behind the church and head up through the woods to get to the castle (now a youth hostel) for a view of the town and river. If you have more time, get lost in the vineyard paths leading to and from the castle. Otherwise, head back down into town to explore the church and wander around the medieval streets and alleys.

Stop by Eis Cafe Italia (Oberstrasse 48) for some Riesling ice cream. Yes, Riesling ice cream! We had our doubts, but it was surprisingly tasty and refreshing and featured hints of fragrant fermentation.

Book a hotel in Bacharach

Lorelei (Loreley) Overlook in Urbar

We confess that we don't get the almost cult-like need to visit Lorelei. It's a pretty rock and segment of the river, and we know about the legend of the mermaid and Heinrich Heine's poem. Despite this, we don't quite understand all the hype.

Perhaps you can blame our literature teachers from high school. That said, we did enjoy — and recommend — the detour from Oberwesel to Urbar for the Lorelei overlook as the road and journey offers beautiful views of the river valley along the way.

Note: If you wish to see a photo of Loreley, it's here .

Oberwesel, Boppard and Braubach

We stopped briefly in — or drove through — the towns of Oberwesel, Boppard and Braubach on our way to Koblenz. If we stayed another day along the Rhine Valley, we would likely have spent it in one of these towns. There's a lesson here: everything in the region takes longer to cover. It's also easy to get stuck. So it was that we ran out of time walking village streets in the early parts of our days there.

Koblenz served as the final stop of our Rhine Valley road trip. It's the largest of the towns along this stretch of the Rhine River. As such, we kept our expectations in check, especially after all the fairy tale half-timbered homes and castles from the day's earlier stops. However, Koblenz surprised us.

Koblenz was originally a Roman town, dating to over 2,000 years ago and making it one Germany's oldest cities. Like Aachen and Cologne, it was under French rule for a spell at the end of the 18th century, and prides itself on still having a bit of French blood coursing through its cultural veins. Much of the city was destroyed during World War II. However, some sections survived while others were rebuilt with an eye to the traditional style, all of which made for pleasant atmospheric walks, especially in the old town.

We ended our visit to Koblenz by walking out to the Deutsches Eck (German Corner) where the Rhine and Mosel Rivers meet. The sun set as we took the cable car up to Ehrenbreitstein, the 19th century fortress across the river.

This aerial view of the Rhine River at dusk seemed a rather fitting close to our journey.

Book a hotel in Koblenz

Avoiding the Crowds Along the Rhine Valley

We’d be lying if we told you this segment of the Rhine River is undiscovered and untouristed. We visited in early September, coming off the high season when river cruises and bus tours are still active.

What we found, however, is that if you wish to get away from the crowds it is not especially difficult. All it takes is moving a block or two in either direction from the beaten tourist thoroughfare and you'll have the streets, castles, and vineyards much to yourself. It's literally that easy.

We also suggest getting an early start to visit some of the more popular towns in the morning before the river cruises and buses arrive (in our experience, around 11AM). You'll have the opportunity to see how the town wakes up — locals stocking up on bread at the bakery, picking up groceries, greeting shopkeepers as they make their way to work. We also tried to begin each of our days with a morning run or walk along the wine paths. Pleasant and mind-clearing.

Hiking and Biking in the Rhine Valley

Although our time was short and we couldn't do this ourselves, we recommend incorporating hiking and bicycling into your trip. There are hundreds of kilometers of hiking and bicycle paths that take you through all of the towns we mention above, as well as through vineyards and other castles tucked higher in the hills and away from the banks of the Rhine.

It's easy to pick up booklets from hotels and local tourist information offices that recommended day hikes and bicycle rides. And with the various options for train and boat transport (see below) you can easily return to your hotel at the end of the day.

The RheinSteig Weg includes 320km of paths along the east bank of the Rhine River. We ran along a very small portion of this through the vineyards outside of Lorch (called the Wein Wander Weg) and it was just beautiful. The paths on this side of the river seem a little less busy than those on the opposite side.

On the west bank of the river you have the RheinBurgen Weg , featuring 200km of hiking and biking paths. You can find some of the recommended day trips listed here .

Note: If you aren't especially picky about your ride, don't worry about bringing your own bicycle with you. Many, if not all, of the tourist offices along the Upper Middle Rhine Valley offer bicycle rental. They also offer the option of electronic-assist bicycles if you are worried about not being able to conquer some of the steep hills in the vineyards. In addition, we noticed many hotels and shops offering Rhine Valley bicycle rentals for €10-€12 per day.

Rhine Valley Transportation Options

The jury is still out for me on whether I would rent a car again to visit this area. While I enjoyed the flexibility of having a car, I was impressed by the public transport and boat options available that allow one to move around without the stress of driving and parking. It's worth noting that I (Audrey) am not a big fan of driving. If you especially enjoy driving, by all means rent a car.

Renting a Car in the Rhine Valley

Pros: Having your own rental car provides the most flexibility to visit little towns and villages along the river. You can take car ferries from select towns to get to the other side of the river, as there are no bridges between Bingen and Koblenz. These ferries are quite reasonable at around €5 for two people and a vehicle.

Cons: Parking in some towns can be a bit tricky. It can also get expensive (10€/half day, for example in Rüdesheim). If you'd like to travel part of the Rhine River by boat (recommended, see below), then you’ll have to find a way to backtrack to pick up your car. Additionally, if you want to sample wines along the way, driving may impact your tasting and consumption options.

Rental car details: We rented a car from Cologne railway station and dropped it off at the Frankfurt railway station. If there's not much difference in the cost, I suggest dropping the car off in Koblenz and taking the train to Frankfurt. Driving in central Frankfurt is stressful, particularly with construction, one-way streets and a hidden drop-off rental car lot at the Frankfurt central train station.

Note: If you are not a German resident, be certain to indicate this when you are booking your rental car. In searches I performed with various rental car companies, I found it much less expensive to rent a car if you are a resident of the United States than if you are a resident of Germany.

Boats Along the Upper Rhine River

There is definitely no shortage of boats going along or criss-crossing the Rhine River, and we recommend taking at least one trip as boats and ferries offer a different visual perspective on the towns and landscape along the Romantic Rhine.

We hopped on one of the KD Boats from Rüdesheim to Lorch (and then took the train to return to Rüdesheim to pick up our car). There are hop-on/hop-off boats that run up and down the Rhine River several times a day, so just check the timetables. You can buy point-to-point tickets, too.

For a budget option, hop car ferries to cross the river. It's a short ride and trips are reasonably priced at just a couple of euros.

If you are really short on time you can also take this one-day boat ride along the Rhine River from Frankfurt that includes almost 5 hours in the Rhine Valley between Rüdesheim am Rhein and Sankt Goarshausen. You can even opt for wine tasting along the way.

Regional Trains in the Rhine Valley

There are regional trains that run up and down both sides of the river. Trains run more frequently on the east bank of the river (Rüdesheim-Lorch-Koblenz). We also know from experience that trains can be faster than a car if you time it well. You can buy a Rheinland-Pfalz ticket that provides unlimited rides in a 24-hour period. Alternatively, point-to-point tickets are quite reasonably priced (e.g., around €2.90 from Lorch to Rüdesheim, one-way).

Taking the train works well with hiking and biking as you can complete a trail and take the train back to wherever you are staying. Just be sure to check the schedule before you go so you aren't spending unnecessary time waiting for a train at the end of the day.

We realize that we only scratched the surface of what there is to see, do, drink and eat along the Upper Middle Rhine Valley in our short time there. However, we hope this guide assists you in your planning and your approach to spending time in the area. 67 kilometers may not sound like much, but there's a lot to unpack and experience in the area.

Disclosure: Our trip around the Rhineland of Germany was supported by the German National Tourism Board (GNTB). As always, the experiences and thoughts expressed here are our own.

About Audrey Scott

23 thoughts on “rhine valley 3-day itinerary: on and off the beaten path”.

This is my favourite part of Europe. My extended family has multiple vineyards in the village of Reil, just south of Koblenz on the Mosel. I love the fairy tail castles and the backdrop of bright green vineyards. It never gets old!

Cam, I remember you guys telling us about your German roots when we saw you in Vancouver a couple of years ago. Unfortunately, we didn’t have a chance to check out the Mosel river on this journey, but we’ve heard that it is also beautiful and has some incredible wines. Our guide in Koblenz was also telling us some good treks in that region…maybe next summer 🙂

The photos took me back in time. I was lucky enough to visit Rüdesheim and Koblenz in 1991. I can still remember the colours. Thank you for the great post.

Steve, glad this post and the photos brought back good memories! If you visited in 1991, that was before reunification. So much has changed in the country since then, but I bet the feel of these towns was quite similar.

I haven’t seen much of the German countryside on blogs recently, so I’m happy to see this! Looks like such a bucolic paradise!

Elaine, glad you enjoyed getting a glimpse of the German countryside and life along the Rhine River! There is certainly a fairytale aspect to this area 🙂

Gotta love the old German towns and castles. Great timing with the wine festival as well.

You can see our priorities to time the visit with the wine festival 🙂

wow really amazing photos and places! I only now north-rhine (Cologne to Bochum). But based on my last summer trip to Lake Constance I’ve realized that Germany has really charming villages. Beautiful

Thanks, Lilly! Glad you enjoyed the photos and learning about a different part of the Rhine Valley. Definitely no shortage of cute towns and villages in Germany 🙂

I love this part of Europe, so picturesque! I bet the river cruise would be pretty relaxing!

The Rhine certainly is picturesque, Rebecca. And this is only a small piece. Time on the river was nice, though we didn’t do a long cruise. We were fans of time on the ground in the hills and vineyards!

Wonderful article. Many years ago I did a similar trip but mainly in the Saar and Mosel regions.

I picked up my rental car in Trier, after taking the train from Frankfurt airport. Four days later I returned the car to Frankfurt airport and guess what? It was much less expensive than picking it up at the airport. Love it.

Thanks, Charles! We would like to return to this area to explore the Mosel region…and its wines. Thanks for the advice regarding your experience with the rental car. Often we assume that picking up and dropping off the car at the same place will be cheaper. It’s always a game to figure out what combination works best in terms of price and convenience.

Very informative article 🙂 And the photos you took are amazing! Germany, and many countries in Western Europe for that matter, are so wonderful, it’s a pity not to travel and enjoy the surroundings.

The fees for renting a bike seem a bit steep though, or is this the typical price hotels ask for?

From what we saw on signs at hotels and bike shops, it seems like the standard price is €10-€15/day for bike rental. Don’t think that’s too high a price, but you could also check at the tourist offices to see if they offer a cheaper price.

Planning a trip for the first week of September and had a question. I see so many talk about the river boats as a good hop on, hop off option but when I check KD’s website (they seem to be the only game in town) there are really only 3 or 4 per day in any direction (not to mention that they seem to only stop at a portion of the stops). Wondering if that is the case or if I am missing something. Also, what seems to be a good time budget for any given town? Looking to stop at least in Bacharach and St Goar but also to poke around here and there.

Garrett, the main boat service going up and down the Rhine is KD. You are right in that there are usually around 4-5 boats running per day but they don’t stop everywhere. What we did was we took a combination of boats and trains (when there wasn’t a boat for a while). Also, some of the towns have ferry service across the river so you could cross with that (this service runs throughout the day) and then catch a train.

Bacharach and St. Goar are relatively small towns, so I’d budget 2-3 hours in each if you’d like to do some walking around, grab a coffee or meal, and not feel rushed.

Enjoy your trip!

Love this region!! Its so beautiful and I have been several times. I’d like to go back and see the Loreley again (it’s my name!)

My wife and I will be making a driving tour of the area this weekend. My concern is that the B9 (west bank of the Rhein) and the B42 (east bank) won’t allow for the dramatic and picturesque views I see in so many photos of the area. Are detours and pull-outs (or pull-ups, as it were) for these viewpoints well-marked? Any suggestions? Thanks!

Hi Ryan, There are lots of well-marked pull-off areas along the roads that go along the Rhine River for views and photographic points. We also often would park the car in a public parking lot in a village and just walk around for the best views. Another suggestion is to take a boat trip to get the viewpoints from the water, either a round-trip or where you can return to your parked car by train. Enjoy your journey to the Rhine Valley!

I am leading a group of 10 persons march 16 through 30 for a Germany tour. We have alotted 2 days for middle rhine and are using a third day to view the Roman ruins in trier.

I cannot find evidence of any boats running at this time except the 4 or so crossing ferries. I dont mind using trains, but would do a short ride if one was available.

We are centering in Bacharach. I also wondered if you went inside any of the castles. Would 2 castles per day be too much for 4 in 2 days? I have noted which ones are open on our dates. Did you have any favorites? I wondered which 4 might be the best considering I have 6 high school students.

Valinda, sounds like you’ve got a great trip ahead for your group. I believe the car ferries should run most of the year since they also shuttle across local people/cars from one side of the river to the other. We only went inside the castle at Bacharach, which is a hostel, and it wasn’t particularly big. We didn’t go inside the others, but I can’t imagine they would be that time intensive. However, they may start to get repetitive so perhaps think about two castles in two days vs. four. You can spend the rest of that time wandering in the village streets or along the river.

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Rhine Valley

Between Rüdesheim and Koblenz, the Rhine cuts deeply through the Rhenish slate mountains, meandering between hillside castles and steep fields of wine-producing grapes. This is Germany’s landscape at its most dramatic – forested hillsides alternate with craggy cliffs and near-vertical terraced vineyards. Idyllic villages appear around each bend, their half-timbered houses and Gothic church steeples seemingly plucked from the world of fairy tales.

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Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Festung Ehrenbreitstein

On the right bank of the Rhine, 118m above the river, this fortress proved indestructible to all but Napoleonic troops, who levelled it in 1801. To prove…

Burg Rheinstein

In the 1820s, privately owned Rheinstein, 6km downriver from Bingen, became the first Rhine castle to be converted – by Prussian royalty (a branch of the…

Pfalzgrafstein

Across the river from the village of Kaub, the boat-shaped toll castle Pfalzgrafstein, built in 1326, perches on an island in the middle of the Rhine. A…

Burg Reichenstein

Looming above the village of Trechtingshausen, 8km downriver from Bingen, mighty Burg Reichenstein harbours a lavish collection of furnishings, armour,…

Mittelrhein-Museum

Spread over 1700 sq metres of the striking glass Forum Confluentes building, Koblenz' Mittelrhein-Museum's displays span 2000 years of the region’s…

Kloster Eberbach

Dating from the 12th century, this one-time Cistercian monastery, in an idyllic little valley 15km northeast of Rüdesheim, went through periods as a…

Oberwesel Kulturhaus

Every April, Oberwesel crowns not a Weinkönigin (wine queen), as in most Rhine towns, but a Weinhexe (wine witch) – a good witch who is said to protect…

Loreley Besucherzentrum

On the edge of the plateau above the Loreley outcrop, 4km southeast of St Goarshausen, this visitors centre covers the Loreley myth and local flora, fauna…

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Exploring the Rhine River Castles & Wine Region – A Romantic Road Trip in Germany

Last updated on May 25th, 2023 at 04:29 pm

If you guys are looking for a romantic getaway or a perfect weekend road trip in Germany , then you’ve hit home. In this 2-day itinerary blog post, we will take you through dozens of medieval castles on the Rhine with fine German Riesling wine and explore the cutest small villages in Germany.

Although overnight Rhine river cruises are more popular here, Gaurav and I preferred driving at our own pace on this road trip in Germany. Having said that, we did sneak in a river cruise for a fraction of the price you would pay otherwise. All that and more information below –

PS: This was such an easy layover trip for us, something you guys should look into when flying via Frankfurt.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

Mosel River region is another popular destination for castles, wines, and the river cruises. If you haven’t heard of the Rhine or the Mosel River then no sweat, I am sure you might have heard of the famous Riesling wine from Germany? Or perhaps the really popular castle Burg Eltz? Or the medieval castles near Frankfurt? This was such an off the tourist trap trip that I highly recommend anyone visiting Europe to add this on your Germany itinerary.

Related: How to spend 3 perfect days in Munich

Transportation in the Rhine River Region

We picked up our  rental car from Frankfurt airport and drove this entire stretch along the Rhine River. I summed up our trip as –

Cruising along the Rhine, chasing castles and wine.

While everyone fancies driving down the German AutoBahn (Highway), don’t forget they do have speed limits as opposed to the popular contrary belief. So watch out for those speed signs on the Autobahn. You can easily start your road trip from either Frankfurt in the south or Cologne or Koblenz in the north. 

In case you do not want to drive, then below are a few other ways to see Rhine Valley region by train or by cruise.

By Train & Cruise:

You can easily cover this region by a combination of Deutsche Bahn trains & K.D. cruises along the Rhine. You will have to take the Inter-city Express trains (ICE) between bigger cities and regional express trains or a cruise ship between smaller towns.

K.D. (Koln-Dusseldorfer) Cruise Ships are part of regional transportation and a perfect way to do a Rhine river cruise on a budget. While taking K.D cruise you can get down at their multiple stops to explore the cute little German towns.

TIP: If you are doing a round trip via ship then check the K.D. cruise schedule for the last ferry out. Otherwise, consider taking the DB train on your return. Some tips on booking transportation (you can buy boat ride tickets at the port) –

• You will need to take the ICE train to either Koblenz or Mainz or Frankfurt from any other big city in Germany.
• From Koblenz hbf change from ICE trains to regional express to get to Boppard hbf and then walk till Boppard K.D. where the K.D. cruises begin.
• Similarly from Mainz hbf change from ICE to regional trains to get to Bingen hbf and then walk till Bingen K.D. port where the cruises begin. 

Private Cruise:

A popular way to see Rhine valley and castles in the German wine region is by taking a Rhine river cruise. If you like to spend overnight on a cruise and can shell a little extra cash then this is a great way to travel. I get motion sick so I preferred mixing trains and a road trip along with a mini K.D. cruise instead.

Rhine River Valley 2-day DIY Itinerary

Below is our itinerary broken down by each day. We hope this helps you plan the most romantic holiday in Germany.

Tip: There is a castle at every bend on Rhine river (no joke) so choose your stops carefully on this weekend trip. Here’s a great map of all the castles on the Rhine .

We collected our rental car at Frankfurt airport and hit the autobahn early in the morning. If you are taking the train instead of driving then head to Mainz or Bingen to start exploring all the castles near Frankfurt.

Stop 1: Mainz

Mainz is a big city close to Frankfurt and known for hosting several festivals along the river. Check out Mainz festival calendar to see if you want to tap on it. We stopped here for a morning stroll through the market on the riverfront

Stop 2: Rudesheim am Rhein, Burg Rheinstein and Reichenstein (Near Bingen)

‘Rudesheim am Rhein’ is a small town in Germany and popular for its Riesling wine (of course!). Take the Rudesheim cable car ride, if you have the time, to Niederwald Monument passing over the German vineyards. 

We skipped the cable car but drove by some of the castles nearby namely  Burg Rheinstein and Burg Reichenstein. Both these castles can be seen on your drive or from the K.D. ferry.

TIP: If you ever dreamed of staying in a castle then this is your chance – Reichenstein castle, built in the 12 th century, is also a castle hotel in Germany. 

Stop 3: Bacharach (Overnight Stay)

Next up we headed to Bacharach, my favorite town, also popular for its Riesling wines (duh!). We chose to spend our first night in Bacharach as it was centrally located on our planned route. And not only that, the quaintness of this small town was as a bonus to stay overnight. We explored the town of Bacharach the next day so more info on that below.

TIP: Another great place to stay overnight would be the town of Oberwesel .

Stop 4: Bacharach to St. Goar Rhine River cruise with K.D.

After checking in our Airbnb in Bacharach and finding street parking for our rental car, we decided to take the afternoon ferry from Bacharach to St. Goar. We could only go till St. Goar to avoid missing the last ferry back for the day. 

The scheduled K.D. river cruise we took had an English speaking tour guide who explained the history and folklore behind all the castles and the Lorelei (rock pictured below) on Rhine River. Burg Katz is another beautiful medieval castle that you will see from St. Goar.

Stop 5: Schloss Rheinfels in St. Goar

Since St. Goar was our last stop we decided to explore the town for an hour before heading back.  Right away, we headed to Rheinfels Castle which was built in the 13 th century. You can either take a shuttle bus to go up to the castle from the town center or hike up a paved path. Given the little time we had, we took the shuttle back and forth.

TIP: For those dreaming of staying in a castle, Burg Rheinfels is another castle hotel in Germany to get pampered like a royal.

On the return boat ride, a glass of wine each made for a perfect companion to relax and enjoy the beautiful views of castles on the Rhine.                 

Stop 1: Explore Bacharach

We woke up at the crack of down to explore Bacharach the next day. That was the best decision ever since we were the only two souls out in the whole town which happens probably never in Europe.

On that note, if you are wondering when to visit Germany, we highly recommend spring or fall i.e. right before or after the summer tourist season hits to avoid the crowd. 

What to see in Bacharach:

• Burg Stahleck Castle: The castle in Bacharach is now turned into a youth hostel. Yes, that means you don’t have to pay a bomb to stay in a castle , grab yourself a bunk bed or a small private room on a budget.
• Hiking: There are a few great hikes in Bacharach taking you through the vineyards. One of those trails takes you up to Burg Stahleck. We hiked to the old post tower to get the below postcard view of the town and the castle.
• Vineyards: You don’t have to go far to explore vineyards in Bacharach, you are already surrounded by it. And if you haven’t noticed already, most of these vineyards are situated on the mountain slopes giving the local wine a fine flavor.
• Ancient ruins: Wernerkapelle is an unfinished gothic ruin still standing tall in Bacharach. There is a trail which goes behind the Bacharach church that leads you here.
• Walk around the town: Bacharach is one of the prettiest towns in Germany with some of the oldest buildings, take some time to leisurely walk around.

Stop 2: Explore Boppard

After breakfast, we drove to the town of Boppard passing by the town of Oberwesel. It was a beautiful Sunday morning in Boppard where farmer’s market and a spring festival was taking place. Boppard is a bigger town so you will find tons of local stores and German food places to try here.

Stop 3: Marksburg Castle

Marksburg Castle is another popular castle in the Rhine valley located on the east side of the river. We were driving on the west side and the only way to cross the river is on a boat (there are no bridges!). So we saw the castle from a viewpoint across the river. TIP: I f you have the time then take a tour of this castle, it is highly recommended by Rick Steves.

Stop 4: Burg Eltz

Ideally, the next stop on our Rhine river road trip was Koblenz but we took a little detour into the Mosel River region to see Burg Eltz . The Mosel river cruises are also a popular road trip in this region and would make for a perfect weekend getaway in Germany. If you have the time explore the nearby town Cochem on the Mosel valley.

TIP: You guy, you have to visit Burg Eltz castle while you are here! More info on how to get to Burg Eltz below –

Getting to Burg Eltz:  Driving is the best way to get here and there is plenty of parking available at Burg Eltz. From the parking lot, you can either take a shuttle bus to the castle or a short hike on the marked trail through the forest to get here. The views are different so I recommend taking both routes, one going up and the other to come back.

TIP: Walk the paved shuttle bus route for the best postcard view of castle Burg Eltz.

Inside Burg Eltz: There is no entrance fee to see Eltz castle’s surroundings. You only have to pay an entrance fee if you want to see the rooms inside the castle. It is very similar to visiting Neuschwanstein Castle near Munich .

Having seen both, we’d say just skip the tour unless you really want to see the room layouts and Eltz family’s belongings. Yes, the family still owns this castle. Instead, spend more time walking around the castle, the river behind it and enjoy the views from the restaurant/bar.

Stop 5: Spend the night at Koblenz

After a long second day, we reached Koblenz just before sunset. Koblenz is a big city in Germany and a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the confluence of Rhine River and the Mosel River takes place.

After checking into our hotel, we did a self walking tour of the old town Koblenz. We ended our walk at the confluence of Mosel and Rhine just in time for sunset. The beautiful riverfront walkway ends at a big statue of Kaiser Wilhelm which opens up to a gorgeous view of the convergence of two rivers.

A few other popular things to do in Koblenz:

• The Koblenz cable car above Rhine River which takes you to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress,
• Schloss Stolzenfels is the other castle in Koblenz which you can tour.
• Visit Basilica of St. Castor.
• Walk around the streets of old town Koblenz.

Return Trip

We had an afternoon flight from Frankfurt, so this time we took the autobahn (highway) to get back to the airport from Koblenz. If you are taking the train from Koblenz then you just need to hop on an ICE train to get to Frankfurt hbf.

Where to Stay in Rhine Valley

Here are some of our recommendations to help you with accommodation in the Rhine Valley. We stayed at Trierer Hof and it was a perfect location to explore old Koblenz town.

Altkölnischer Hof

Hotel am Markt

Guesthouse Mainz

Hotel Königshof

Trierer Hof

Hotel Hohenstaufen

In closing, take it from us and skip the big cities to go explore the Rhine River valley or the Mosel River region in Germany. It has to be one of the most romantic places to visit in Germany!

More on Travel in Europe

• Visiting the Bavarian Castles Neuschwanstein & Hohenschwangau – An easy day trip from Munich
• How to spend 3 fun days in Munich – A self guided itinerary
• 7 Days in Iceland Itinerary – The Ultimate Summer Road Trip Guide
• Roman Holiday Guide – Must see & do things in Rome

If you like this extensive guide do pin it for later and share it with your friends and family!

Happy Traveling!

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24 comments on “ exploring the rhine river castles & wine region – a romantic road trip in germany ”.

This looks like such an amazing road trip! Will definitely be visiting some of these castles when I go back to Germany. Thanks for sharing! KB

Sure thing, I hope you have a fab time when you visit 🙂

The scenery is so beautiful! It looks like you really enjoyed your time there, and got to experience so many different parts of the culture!!!

Yes we did 🙂

Wow, such stunning German countryside and a very detailed post. Burg Eltz looks incredible and you’re right very similar to Neuchweinstein Castle. I’m from Ireland originally and certainly plan on exploring more of Europe when I’m home so this is right up my alley. Gorgeous photos too.

Oh we want to see Ireland so bad! 🙂

I’ve been to Germany once and it was nothing like this. Definitely want to make a trip back there and check out some castles and the wine country. Looks like so much fun!

You must go to the western side of Germany 🙂

This sounds absolutely lovely! I love the idea of castle hopping and tasting wine along the way! Definitely need to visit the Rhine River valley sooner rather than later!

This is such a lovely area of Germany – full of history – but man those castles are something else. I wonder what it was like to live in them when they were built!

Probably felt like a princess 😉 Ah, dreams!

I LOVE the look of this holiday!

There is something so exciting about exploring castles, from the ruined falling down castles in Wales, to the ornate perched-on-cliffs castles in Japan, I always love visited them. Germany’s castles are so dreamy and cool though! BurgEltz looks amaaaazing, was that your favourite?

It’s awesome that this region has wine as well!!

Yes, Burg Eltz was my favorite so far in Germany given its age & ruggedness. I have also been to Neuschwanstein aka Disney Castle and yet I’d say I love Eltz more 🙂

This looked like a great couples adventure and I love that it was a nice 3 day itinerary. My favorite is definitely the views of the castle.

Yeah, we paced it out to make it a truly relaxing trip. Castles are the best part of this region indeed.

Thanks for sharing such a detailed post! We’d love to spend some time travelling around Germany in the future so we’ll definitely think about these spots too!

I’m so glad we could give you some new ideas to visit in Germany 🙂

What a cool trip! My husband and I have been anxious to visit this region, and have been torn between renting a car or going on a river cruise. I think you just convinced us to do it as a road trip so that we can go at our own pace and have some more freedom! 😉

Yeah, that’s the thing I don’t do well with pre-arranged tours and Rhine river cruises seemed like that for me. And given that we could still cruise along parts of the river in addition to our road trip it was a win-win!

I love the Rhine region! I had no idea you could take a short cruise to get between some of the places. I will definitely be looking into that. Koblenz looks like an area I would love.

I know! That local KD river cruise ferries made our trip as well 🙂

This is totally not what I think of when I think of Germany, but its inspiring me to go back and spend more time outside of the cities!

I know right! I am in love with the German countryside 🙂

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Hello from Gaurav & Richa! An adventurous couple who did NOT quit their corporate jobs to travel the world. On the contrary, we're all about balancing that work-travel life. Our goal is to explore as much as we can in our short vacations and yes, we do go to great lengths to find unique experiences and great food to share with you all. Learn more About Us .

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Middle rhine valley scenic route.

Last updated: 25 June 2023

Have you ever heard of the Middle Rhine Valley?

Did you know there is a scenic driving route that runs through the Rhine valley, from Bingen to Bonn, and you’ll get the chance to see over 40 castles from the Middle Ages and some beautiful scenery along the way? It doesn’t get the name  romantic Rhine  for nothing!

The Middle Rhine Valley scenic drive is formed of 2 parts, the upper part from Bingen to Koblenz and the lower part from Koblenz to Bonn. Roma and I did the 65km upper half of the Middle Rhine Valley scenic drive, we started in Bingen and ended in Koblenz (the route is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002) on our return to London from Switzerland.

One of our favourite aspects of travelling is meeting new people and learning more about the world around us from fellow travellers, which is exactly how we learned about the Middle Rhine Valley scenic drive!

Thanks to Scott from vacationcounts.com ( @vacationcounts ) and Jennifer from sidewalksafari.com ( @sidewalksafari ) that we learned of the Middle Rhine Valley scenic route and decided to check it out during our drive through Germany. And boy were we glad that we spent the time to take the drive because it turned out to be one of the most scenic, spellbinding, and serene drives that we’ve taken since living in Europe.

According to Google Maps, the drive from Bingen to Koblenz is approx 65km and should take just over 1 hour (the blue line below) but we ended up spending about 3 hours making the journey because we kept pulling over to take photos and enjoy some of the fresh air. And that’s what makes this trip so amazing, you literally have one thing to see after another.

And just one piece of advice if you plan on following our route, there are limited parking places along the way in which to pullover to enjoy the view. Some of the places we just pulled over on the side of the road, on a footpath, and yes even the occasional parking lot. However, this was one of the perks of driving early on a Sunday morning, so just something to keep in mind.

Starting the Middle Rhine Valley Drive

Our journey early on a Sunday morning in Mainz on our way to Bingen to start the scenic route, first up was a pitstop at Macca’s (McDonald’s) for a bacon roll and a coffee, nothing good ever happens without coffee. Then we hit the road and followed the 60 until the 9 road turn off to Bingen.

Burg Reichenstein

Once we started the scenic route at Bingen, it was within 10 minutes that we were already looking to pull over at Burg Reichenstein, a 12th century castle which boasts a working drawbridge and portcullis and is open to the public.

Since it was early on a Sunday morning nothing was open so we admired the beauty of this castle roadside.  After a few minutes we were back on the road and heading to our next stop, Burg Sooneck.

Burg Sooneck

Burg Sooneck is a 13th century castle with a pretty interesting history – built, besieged, refusal to be rebuilt, then rebuilt, then besieged again, then left to decay, then rebuilt…and this is just the tip of the iceberg!

We passed signs to the castle so we followed them to, this time, get a little closer to a German castle. You basically need to drive past Burg Sooneck for a few minutes, then take a left, and follow the winding road.

Now here’s the thing with the winding road, it’s basically one road up and the same road down which makes me wonder what traffic must be like during Summer but made me grateful that we were driving up on a Sunday morning. However, if you’re like us and spend all your energy on ensuring that your car stayed on the narrow road then there’s a good chance that you’ll drive straight past the official parking area and keep driving up to the castle on the footpath!

We spent some time enjoying the view and the tranquility before getting back in the car and heading back the way we came, hoping that no one else decided to visit the castle at the same time! Thankfully, we made it back to the main road and continued our journey on the 9 road.

It’s only about 10 minutes of driving before you spot another castle and then you’re quickly searching for a place to pull over!

Ruine Furstenberg

Unfortunately since we were on a main road and there were a few other drivers around, we didn’t have the opportunity to stop as quickly as we would have liked so our photos were taken from a distance. The castle in question was Ruine Furstenberg, a 13th century castle sitting high on the hill overlooking the Rhine region.

After a check quick of Google Maps to ensure that we were still heading in the right direction, we noticed that that we weren’t far from Castle Pfalzgrafenstein so we knew that would be our next stop.

Castle Pfalzgrafenstein

Castle Pfalzgrafenstein (which I’m sure is easy to pronounce in German….) looks like something out of a fairy tale and it’s a castle you don’t need to check if you’re looking at the right one, you know when you see it.

This was one of the stops where there is no designated parking area so you have a make a decision quickly, especially if there are cars behind you. Fortunately for us, the road was empty so we just pulled over on footpath for a few minutes and there were no issues.

Pfalzgrafenstein Castle stands on the tiny Pfalz island in the middle of the Rhine and was built about 800 years as a toll collecting castle! That’s right, a toll collecting castle! Just because you were on the water didn’t mean that you didn’t have to pay your tolls! And they meant it too because apparently a chain (also called a boom) would be strung up across the river forcing boats to submit and pay their levies!

Next time we’re in the Rhine valley we are definitely taking advantage of the ferry which allows visitors to visit the castle.

We spent a bit of time admiring the view and then headed back on the 9 road and continued our journey. We drove for about another 15 minutes before we drove through the town of Oberwesel which was just lovely, so lovely that we just had to stop and admire the view.

There were plenty of empty parking spaces so we had no issue grabbing a space before heading out to take in the view and explore the village for a short time. I think my favourite thing about Oberwesel was simply standing on the footpath looking out over the Rhine and hearing nothing, there was no noise and was just perfectly tranquil.

We spent about a good amount of time just walking around taking photos and really just soaking up the serenity of a quaint village with spectacular views.

We pulled ourselves away from the view to get back in the car and continue our journey but after 10 minutes on the road we arrived in Sankt Goar (St Goar) and it was just too beautiful not to stop, so we did. It’s a good thing we decided to go exploring because guess what we found? Another castle of course!

Once we parked the car we walked down to the shores of the Rhine and just stood there taking in the view when we noticed that high up on the hill was another castle!

Burg Katz, a 14th century castle built by Count William II Katzenelbogen. The castle is now a private residence and not open to the public.

Man, imagine that being your house and giving the pizza delivery driver instructions on how to deliver, “oh trust me, you don’t need a house number…”

One of the best things about visiting St Goar on a Sunday morning was that it was completely empty, we literally didn’t see anyone else so it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. Walking up and down the main street, taking photos, and just sitting down and hearing the church bells in the distance was easily one of the best parts of the drive. We highly recommend that you take some time to stop and visit St Goar.

We bid St Goar a fond farewell and headed back out on the road and continued heading to Koblenz. We drove for about 15 minutes before we saw what looked like to be a ski-lift but that couldn’t be right, we were nowhere near any ski fields so curiosity grabbed hold and we had to stop and investigate.

Boppen Sesselbahn

We used the ski lift as a homing beacon and followed it to arrive at a relatively large carpark in the middle of Boppen. The carpark was deserted expect for one car with 4 passengers who appeared to be getting dressed into warm clothes and hiking gear. We decided to take a walk, nodded politely at the hikers, and kept walking to seek out the mysterious ski lift.

What did we discover? Well, it’s NOT a ski lift at all but a Sesselbahn  (chair lift) which takes you 232 meters up and across 914 meters of spectacular views of the Rhine. Once you arrive at the top there are vantage points with different views and for those interested, the top is a good starting point for hikes through the woods.

Unfortunately the chair lift is closed from November to March every year so we weren’t able to enjoy a trip up the mountain but it did afford us the opportunity to get close to the gondolas and take some photos.

Boppard Chair Lift –  Interesting facts

• Reaches a maximum height of 214 meters
• Length of 914 meters
• Transports up to 600 people per hour
• Total of 80 chairs on the lift
• 20 minute journey each way
• Operates 1st April – 31st October
• Running hours 10:00 -17:00
• Adults 7,50 euro return (4.80 one way)
• Child ( to 14) 4,50 euro return (3.00 one way)

After taking some photos of the chair lift and vowing to return during the Summer months we headed back on the road to our next stop, our final stop before reaching Koblenz.

It only took 10 minutes before we arrived in Braubach, and just like in St Goar and Boppard, we pretty much had the roads to ourselves. However we soon discovered where everyone was because we drove past a church which had pretty much the entire town’s cars parked outside. The choir we heard inside was also a good indicator that church on Sunday was the place to be for Braubach.

We took advantage of the quiet streets and found a carpark and headed down to the Rhine and that’s when we saw it, probably the most interesting looking castle of the entire drive, Marksburg Castle.

Marksburg Castle

If I didn’t know better, I’d say that this is the castle where Shrek rescued Princess Fiona from, but since I do know better I won’t make that comparison. I think the reason why it made such an impression on us was because it looked remarkably well preserved in all its grandeur compared to some of the other castles we saw during our day’s adventure.

Marksburg Castle was built in the 12th century for the town’s protection and it must have been pretty impressive because it’s the only castle in the Rhine valley that was never destroyed, which is probably why it looks so impressive today.

After taking some photos and enjoying a quiet stroll along the Rhine we decided to head up into the town and take advantage of the quiet streets.

We spent about 20 minutes wandering through Braubach before returning to the car and making the final 10 minute drive to Koblenz, thus bringing our scenic drive through the Middle Rhine Valley to an (unfortunate) end.

This is one scenic drive that we can definitely recommend so if you have the opportunity to drive through the Rhine Valley we can say that you won’t regret it.

The world is waiting for you to experience it.

The Essentials

Bingen to koblenz .

• Distance: 65 km (40 miles)
• Driving time: Minimum of just over 1 hour, we took 3
• Castles:  Some castles have entry fees, others are private homes. Otherwise it’s free!
• Insider tips:  Sunday morning is the best time to go, quiet on the roads which makes a quick photo stop all the easier. Take a zoom lens if possible, not always easy to get up close to the castles.

Born and raised in Sydney Australia and currently based in London, I absolutely love exploring the UK and Europe at every opportunity. It still thrills me that all it takes is an hour flight to be in a new country with a completely different history, language, food, and culture that is just waiting to be experienced. We started our blog, Roaming Required, as a way to keep in contact with family and friends, and over the last 10 years, the blog has grown and evolved and it remains a real passion project. We've travelled a lot in the 10 years living in London and there's still plenty more to experience. So, why not join us for the adventure and come roam with us!

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Comments (13)

It is just beautiful this scenic route(: … loved reading about it… very pleasant experience.

We definitely recommend it to you Maria. It’s easy to addition into a road trip.

What a great write up! When I did my Europe trip I went by rail and so I know I missed some amazing road trips and this was one of them – even if I didn’t know it at the time. European castles are the stuff of fairy tales so to see so many on one short stretch of road would have been incredible. Thank you for sharing & Happy Travels 🙂

-Vicki http://www.maketimetoseetheworld.com

Great stuff! Glad Scott\’s advice led to an unexpected adventure 🙂 Where are you headed on your next roadtrip?

Heading off to Belgium in February 😊

Some of our fondest travel memories are form our stay in this area in Sankt Goar. Great castle viewing!

That’s really cool! Sankt Goar was a highlight of the drive!!

Our kids absolutely love exploring castles so we will definitely add this our list of must-do journey’s!

Thanks Kevin! I think your kids will love the drive, just make sure to add in extra time because there’s one thing to see after another 🙂

Looks beautiful and fascinating – an easy drive through Germany right? Roads so well maintained there. Any culinary highlights along the way?

Absolutely, Stefan. The German roads are just great to drive on, makes long distance a breeze.

On this occasion we didn’t have the option to stop for food, given an early Sunday start and the need to head back to London, however that just gives us the reason to return and sample cuisine along the way.

If you get a chance to take the drive, we’d love to hear your thoughts 🙂

Wow, what a comprehensive write-up of this spectacularly scenic stretch of river, chock full of castles. Seeing actual medieval castles (this isn’t Vegas or Disney) up close along this historic driving route should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. I am so happy to have inspired fellow travel bloggers.

Talking travel with people that embrace the concept of work-life-vacation balance always reminds me how rewarding it is to be a part-time traveler. My advice to all is don’t wait until retirement to visit this and what is to me an endless list of destinations that anyone can visit.

-Scott, VacationCounts – Take More Vacation Time Off

Thanks for the comment, Scott! And thanks for your wonderful tip about the Middle Rhine Valley because it was spectacular and just a lovely way to start the new year! It’s absolutely a must do for all travellers

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By Olga Maria

INSPIRING YOUR NEXT TRAVEL DESTINATIONS IN STYLE | AMSTERDAM LIFE

EUROPE , GERMANY , TRAVEL · March 24, 2022

RHINE VALLEY Germany: How To Spend an Amazing Weekend Here

Here’s everything you need to know about how to spend an incredible weekend in the spectacular Rhine Valley of Germany . We’ll cover things like where to stay, what are the best villages and castles to visit, the Rhine Valley whine, and more!

A trip to Germany wouldn’t be complete without seeing the famous Rhine Valley region.

It is located between the cities of Koblenz and Bingen, in the Rhineland-Palatinate and Hesse states of Germany.

Driving along the Rhine river, this UNESCO World Heritage Site will delight you with beautiful landscapes and gorgeous castles at every turn.

How to get to the Rhine Valley

If you are traveling from abroad, the best would be to fly to Frankfurt or Cologne airports.

From there, you can reach the Rhine Valley by car or train. The trip takes around 2 and a half hours by train from either airports or a 1-hour drive from Frankfurt.

My recommendation would be to rent a car, as you’ll be a lot faster and more comfortable.

Where to stay in the Rhine Valley, Germany

The best place to stay, in my opinion, is Sankt Goar .

This is one of the largest towns along the Rhine Valley and home to one of the biggest castles in the area – Burg (castle) Rhinefels.

It is well connected and close enough to the other smaller villages along the Rhine. You can reach the other castles in the area in just a few minutes drive.

This is the place we chose for our stay during our visit here last summer and we were very happy with the choice. We stayed at Hotel & Restaurant Zur Loreley which was great. The hosts were super friendly and welcoming.

Their restaurant is also one of the best in the city, so definitely try it out. It has a beautiful location with a great view of the castle and is just a 2-minute walk to the Rhine bank.

6 Best Things To Do in the Rhine Valley, Germany

1. visit rheinstein castle.

The most impressive site of the Rhine Valley if you ask me, this castle is a definite must-see.

Dating back to the 13th century, the castle fell into ruin through the years and has been rebuilt in the 1800s in the 19th-century Romantic style.

You will love the interior court, its tall, fairytale-like walls as well as the impressive views of the Rhine.

Getting there is quite the workout, as you’ll have to climb uphill from the parking lot. (you cannot reach it otherwise, only by foot). But the views are totally worth it.

2. Walk through the picturesque streets of Bacharach

Next on your list should be stopping in the picturesque town of Bacharach .

This is one of the most popular towns in the Rhine Valley and you can easily see why.

We loved getting lost on the winding streets and admiring the typical German architecture of the houses.

Whether you are traveling by car or cruise boat, Bacharach is the perfect stop for a coffee or lunch along the Rhine Valley.

4. Visit Reichenstein castle

This is probably the largest castle in the area, located in Trechtinghausen, and also one where you can actually spend the night in.

So if you’re looking for spectacular views and the experience of staying in a medieval castle, this is a good one to try.

You can find more information on accommodation and prices HERE .

4. Walk along the Rhine in Sankt Goar

Sankt Goar is a town not to be missed during your trip to the Rhine Valley in Germany.

It’s the perfect place to use as a base for your trip as we’ve already covered but also a great town to explore.

You will love walking through its medieval streets, at the base of the Rhinefels castle, or going for a romantic stroll along the river.

5. Explore the Rhine Valley via a boat tour

If you prefer to explore the area by boat, taking a cruise on the Rhine can be a great idea.

What could be better than feeling the sun and breeze on your face while admiring the vine-covered hills and the majestic castles all around?

HERE you can find all the information to plan your best Rhine Valley boat tour.

6. Go for a wine tasting

You cannot leave the Rhine Valley without trying some of its best wine.

The region is famous for its high-quality Riesling grapes and produces some of the best white wines in Europe.

While we didn’t have enough time to visit a winery during our short stay, this is something we have definitely planned for our next trip to the region.

I did some research for you and found this article about the best wine vineyards in the area.

Hopefully, you’ve enjoyed these recommendations and are now super excited to discover this beautiful region of Germany, the Rhine Valley. Happy travels!

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Rhine Valley

Top ways to experience Rhine Valley and nearby attractions

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10 Things To Do in The Rhine Valley, Germany

In contrast to world-famous destinations such as Heidelberg or Neuschwanstein Castle , the romantic Middle Rhine Valley is still an insider tip among the holiday regions in Germany.

The “Upper Middle Rhine Valley” region has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002 and attracts thousands of tourists every year. The narrow valley with the legendary Loreley rock inspires with many castles, great old towns and steep vineyards.

How to get to the Middle Rhine Valley

The Middle Rhine Valley can be easily reached from different directions. The proximity to major German cities such as Cologne or Frankfurt and Main makes it a great destination for day trips. You can arrive by car as well as by train.

With the car, however, you are more flexible on-site, as the sights are spread across the valley. Excursions by ship are available from Mainz or Koblenz.

When is the best time to visit the Middle Rhine Valley?

The Middle Rhine Valley can be visited all year round. Summer and autumn with their warm temperatures are particularly suitable. In autumn the leaves of the trees are brightly coloured and the view of the valley is breathtaking.

How to get around the Middle Rhine Valley

From the airports in Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt Hahn or Cologne-Bonn it is best to take a rental car to visit the Middle Rhine Valley as comfortably as possible. So you are flexible on-site and can target the sights. Another option is to travel by Deutsche Bahn.

Every town in the Middle Rhine Valley has a train station. There are offers for cheap day or multi-day tickets with which you can then comfortably travel from one place to the next.

Some sights – especially the castles – are not directly on the river, so you have to plan time and equipment for short hikes if you don’t have a car.

Budgeting for Middle Rhine Valley

For visiting the Middle Rhine Valley, you should expect to spend roughly 75-100 Euro a day in average per person. That includes accommodation, transport, basic meals in a normal restaurant and entry fees.

10 Things to do in Middle Rhine Valley

In the Middle Rhine Valley, there are many sights that can hardly be visited in a single day.

Depending on the areas of interest, there are various ways to explore the region: by car, train or excursion boat. Particularly active visitors discover the romantic Middle Rhine Valley on foot along with one of the many hiking trails such as the Rhein-Burgen-Weg or the Rheinsteig.

1. Visit the Niederwald monument near Rüdesheim

The Niederwald monument with a huge Germania statue was built after the Franco-German War of 1870/71. Germania looks towards France with her arm raised. You can comfortably go to the monument with a chairlift from Rüdesheim or hike there through the vineyards.

2. Stroll through the old town of Rüdesheim

The old town of Rüdesheim with its cosy squares, old half-timbered houses and many restaurants and wine bars is popular with guests from all over the world. The Rüdesheimer Drosselgasse is particularly famous here, where you can also buy great souvenirs of all kinds

3. Stroll through the old town of Bacharach

Bacharach is an insider tip for a trip to Germany. Under the magnificent Stahleck Castle are the picturesque old town with many winding alleys, cobbled streets and old houses. The city wall around Bacharach is very well preserved with many towers.

4. Make a photo stop at Pfalzgrafenstein Castle

The Pfalzgrafenstein near Kaub is an old toll castle in the middle of the Rhine. With the help of a boat, you can drive over from Kaub and visit the castle. From here you also have a great view of the old town of Kaub and the Hohenstaufen castle Gutenfels on the slopes of the Rhine

5. Discover the city wall in Oberwesel

Oberwesel is also called the “city of towers and wine”. A particularly well-preserved city wall with many high towers winds around the city.

The city is flanked by the imposing churches of Liebfrauen and St. Martin. From the cosy old town, you can also wonderfully reach the Schönburg above the city after a short hiking tour.

6. Marvel at the imposing Loreley rock from the “Maria Ruh” vantage point near Urbar

The Loreley rock is the narrowest point in the Middle Rhine Valley and has always been a dangerous place for boaters.

According to the legend, a bewitchingly beautiful woman, the Loreley, sits high up on her rock and distracts the boatmen so that they crash against the rocks and drown. The best view of the rock is from Loreleyblick Maria Ruh in the Rheinhöhen village of Urbar.

7. Visit the Rheinfels castle ruins via St. Goar

Rheinfels Castle is the largest ruin on the Middle Rhine. Large parts of the imposing fortress can still be viewed today. From the high towers and walls you have a magnificent view of the Rhine Valley, the city of St. Goarshausen and the Katz Castle above.

8. Visit the Marksburg near Braubach

The Marksburg is an impressive sight high above the Rhine Valley. The complex dates from the 12th century and is the only castle on the Middle Rhine that was never destroyed.

9. Visit the Deutsches Eck in Koblenz

The Deutsches Eck in Koblenz is located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. A huge equestrian monument of Kaiser Wilhelm I adorns the square, from which one has a great view of the Prussian fortress Ehrenbreitstein on the opposite bank of the Rhine.

You can also comfortably go to the village in a Godel and see Koblenz and the surrounding region from above.

10. Take a trip on the ship

The best and most convenient way to see many of the above attractions is by boat. Tours are offered daily by various companies in the high season. You can also leave the ship to visit an old town or castle and later continue with another.

Rüdesheim / Bingen or Koblenz / Lahnstein are ideal starting points. From the ship you can see every castle on the Middle Rhine, which is usually not possible by car.

Top Places to Eat at the Middle Rhine Valley

The typical food in the Rhineland is very down to earth and comes from local farmers, bakers or butchers.

• Customs office Bingen (Hafenstrasse 3, 55411 Bingen am Rhein) – In the old customs office in Bingen you sit directly on the Rhine with a great view of the Rheingau and the Niederwald monument over Rüdesheim
• Burg Reichenstein (Burgweg 24, 55413 Trechtingshausen) – here you will find a castle, museum and upscale restaurant in one.
• Romantik Hotel Schloss Rheinfels (Schlossberg 47, 56329 St. Goar) – from the terrace and the dining rooms of Rheinfels Castle you have a great view of the Middle Rhine Valley and the Katz Castle opposite
• Hotel Bellevue Boppard (Rheinallee 41, 56154 Boppard) – upscale restaurant in a great location with a large selection of regional dishes
• Gasthof zum Goldenen Schlüssel (Marktpl. 14, 56338 Braubach) – authentic, home-style restaurant with typical German dishes near the Marksburg

Top Places to Drink at the Middle Rhine Valley

The Middle Rhine Valley, like the neighbouring wine-growing area on the Moselle, is known for its impressive vineyards on very steep slopes above the river, the so-called “steep slopes”. Here the grapes are still often picked by hand and carried up the slope by the helpers.

• A special drink in the region is, therefore, the Asbach Uralt, the oldest brandy in Germany from Rüdesheim.
• In autumn, “Federweißer” is a popular drink for locals and guests from all over the world throughout the region.
• Asbach Visitor Center (Ingelheimer Str. 4, 65385 Rüdesheim am Rhein) – In the visitor center of Asbach GmbH in Rüdesheim you can not only taste fine wines from the famous brandy, but also buy various souvenirs and gifts such as chocolates
• Kaub-Mitte Weinbistro (Marktstrasse 5, 56349 Kaub) – cozy, small restaurant in the center of Kaub with delicious local wines
• Weingut Goswin Lambrich (Auf der Kripp 3, 55430 Oberwesel) – In the old wine-growing village of Oberwesel-Dellhofen, you can expect an authentic atmosphere with a large selection of good wines from the steep slopes of the Middle Rhine
• Loreleyblick Maria Ruh (Loreleystraße 20, 55430 Urbar) – cozy café with its own coffee roastery directly at Loreleyblick Maria Ruh in Urbar
• Maximilians Brauwiesen (Didierstraße 25, 56112 Lahnstein) – Enjoy the self-brewed beer with hearty German brewery food. In good weather in the great outdoor area on the Rhine.

Where to stay at the Middle Rhine Valley

The whole region has a very good tourist infrastructure. Accordingly, there are many hotels in all cities along the Rhine, from simple to luxurious, there is something for every budget. Some castles offer special overnight accommodations. In the villages on the Rhine heights, there are good offers for cheap pensions and Airbnbs.

Hotel: For a double room, the price is from 50 Euro a night, some basic hotels are cheaper if you’re travelling on a small budget

Airbnb: The average cost for 2 people per night is around 60 Euro.

From the west of Germany, not far from Koblenz and Cologne, there is another exciting excursion region: Wallonia in Belgium. Find out in the article “ Wallonia Road trip – Itinerary, Things to do & Tips ” how to spend the perfect days in Wallonia and what there is to see. 

If you on a bigger trip exploring more of Europe check out my guides to France , Germany, Greece, Iceland , Italy , Portugal , Spain and United Kingdom .

Author Bio: Explored by Phil from JOURNICATION Travel Blog . Phil focuses not only on his BIG5 summaries for world-famous or exotic travel destinations, but also writes about the psychological aspects of travelling and financials around it. He grew up in the Middle Rhine Valley and therefore is a local expert for this beautiful region. You can also find Phil on social media at Instagram , Facebook and Twitter .

My Travel Tips and Recommendations

To book flights, I always use flight search engine Skyscanner, I regularly use the Everywhere tool to find the cheapest places to travel. It’s how I get to travel so much all around the world. I find it the easiest way to compare flight prices across airlines and get the best deals. 

Accommodation

For accommodation, I usually book most of my hotels or hostels through  Booking.com.  I love using this platform as it provides me with some amazing deals for accommodation all around the world. Or if you prefer, I also recommend using Airbnb. If you haven’t signed up with Airbnb already, you can use  this link  to get £25 off your first visit!

Travel Insurance

Picking travel insurance that covers you in all eventualities is an essential part of planning a trip for every single person. If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. You never know what’s around the corner. 

You can also find me on social media:  Facebook ,  Twitter,   YouTube  and  Instagram .

Did you know I also vlog my trips? Make sure you subscribe to my YouTube channel so you get alerted when all my travel videos go live… CHECK THEM OUT HERE

Thank you for reading and as always happy adventuring! If you have any questions about the destination please leave these in the comments below.

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I haven’t been to the Rhine Valley in ages but absolutely loved my trip there! Deffo gonna have to book another visit once we can travel again

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Rhine Valley Road Trip: Cologne to Heidelberg, Germany

• Post author By Nathalie
• Post date May 25, 2023
• No Comments on Rhine Valley Road Trip: Cologne to Heidelberg, Germany

After a couple of failed attempts to visit the Rhine Valley, we both had huge smiles as the Lufthansa 747 left the ground on the way to Frankfurt, Germany . We had twice planned this trip having gone through the exercise of researching the locations, choosing and reserving great hotels, and making detailed maps of what to see and do. All this only to have the rug pulled out from under us due to pandemic related travel restrictions.

Of course, to add a little drama, German rail workers and airport workers had been holding strikes at key airports affecting train and airport services in the days leading up to our departure. A couple of days before we left, Berlin Airport was shut down with thousands of stranded passengers. A week prior it was Düsseldorf. Fortunately, our flight to Frankfurt was ok and even though we left almost two hours late we were thrilled. Finally on our way to Germany!

Getting there

We had booked a direct flight with Lufthansa out of Miami to Frankfurt. But it was actually cheaper to connect by train to Cologne via Frankfurt than to get out in Frankfurt without taking the train. Some kind of promotion to promote rail connections which are being increasingly favored to eliminate the carbon emissions of short flights. We came to learn that strikes aside, rail service in Germany is reliable, efficient, and fast.

Once on board our outbound flight to Germany , we waved goodbye to our faithful cat and did our best to get a few hours of shut eye as we dreamed of castles along the Rhine River.

Lufthansa service

It really was nice to get to enjoy some great service with a smile. Hot croissants, expresso, and a nice meal. A big step above our recent experiences with local US airlines.

Arriving in Frankfurt was smooth sailing and connecting to the train was quick and intuitive despite being a long walk from our arrival gate. Before we knew it, we were on the long-distance train traveling at 250 km/h towards Cologne.

One can easily spend weeks in the Rhine Valley and still not see everything. We followed some advice we had heard and preselected some of the more famous castles and picked a few good spots to stay, what follows is a recap of our 12-day adventure around the Rhine, Moselle, and Neckar rivers.

Cologne (or Kohn), Germany

Arriving in Cologne by train from Frankfurt was fast and easy. Only 50 minutes, much faster than by car. The Deutsche Bahn trains are smooth, fast, and run just about every 15 minutes!

The first thing you see exiting the train station is the huge and magnificent Cologne Cathedral. Our jaws literally dropped when we first laid eyes on it. It is enormous.

It’s free to visit, but there are boxes for donations that go towards the restoration and upkeep. We spend many hours there admiring the cathedral as a whole. Be sure to go down into the crypt and treasury.

While it is indeed an effort, we did not regret climbing the 500 or so steps to see the top of the tower. It’s a gorgeous view and you get to see and appreciate the grandeur of the gargoyles and all the ornamentation and decorations that look so tiny from the street below when looking up.

We also wandered around the Old Market Square and visited some other churches and just enjoyed finally being in Germany . We stumbled upon a mouthwatering dessert place where we sampled some delicious Bing cherry pie. For dinner, we found a lively authentic beer garden for our first goulash soup, Wiener schnitzel and of course one of many apple strudels to come.

Heading to Boppard, Germany

After one night in Cologne, we headed off to our first destination along the Rhine River, Boppard.

We chose Boppard mainly for its central proximity to the many castles along the Middle Rhine. It is a charming town quite typical among many along the banks of the river. Our hotel, the Bellevue gave us a nice view onto the Rhine River and even had indoor parking. Parking, even before high season was hard to find on the street. We were happy to have a spot reserved.

We finished our day arriving in Boppard where we would be spending the next three nights at the waterfront Bellevue Rheinhotel, a hotel with a rich history. There were even photos of the Emperor of Japan who had seemingly stayed in our room some years back.

We chose the hotel because it was on the waterfront and had the KD river cruise boat leaving from just a few steps away. Truth be told after visiting, we realize that the KD stops can be found in just about every town and there is a myriad of good options for hotels on the waterfront.

Boppard was a charming town, another good choice could be Bacharach where we also stopped by car to explore.

Brühl Castle

This was one of our favorite castles of the tour. Reminiscent of a French château it brought back memories of our trip to France’s Loire Valley . It is only accessible with a guided tour, but the guide was great and took her time.

The Rococo style castle dates to the 18 th century and is a nice addition to a Rhine Valley trip. One of the most amazing features was the intricate marble staircase.

The gardens were also impressive, and we expect that further into the summer these would have been filled with flowers.

You can also get a combo ticket to visit the adjacent hunting falconry lodge where they trained falcons to hunt herons. Interestingly enough we learned that the herons that were hunted were only marked and not killed. While better than killing I suppose letting them be would be the nicest thing to do!

Drachenburg Castle

Our second castle, Schloss Drachenburg, was really like a fairytale castle complete with turrets with spiral staircases. While it’s built in a medieval style it was built in the late 1800s as a private villa.

As we came to learn, like many of the castles here, we had to find a spot in town to park and then hike up a hill to the castle. At Drachenburg, there was a funicular which we could take up to the castle and even to a viewpoint above.

This was already a full day so we headed off to check into our Boppard hotel for the night.

Famous Rhine Valley Castles

Stolzenfels castle.

Next day, we headed to our next castle, Stolzenfels. You can see the imposing structure from across the Rhine but unfortunately for us arriving at the castle’s gate the castle turned out to be closed. This was despite a conflicting sign saying that it should be open on the day and on the date we were there. Oh well.

We walked up the hill and made it through the main gate which was unlocked and unmanned letting us get some good views of the outside. Sure enough, the ticket office was closed however and the main entry way to the castle was locked. Since we had our days planned out, we opted to just take a few pictures and move on.

Marksburg Castle

For our second stop that day, we crossed over to the opposite side of the Rhine to visit the Marksburg Castle. This is claimed as the only castle on the Rhine that was not completely destroyed during WW2.

This castle is a famous one and a must-see in the Rhine Valley. It retains some original walls and even a ceiling from the year 1200. You can only visit with a guided tour, so we signed up and waited only a few minutes for the tour to start.

Unfortunately, the English tours are fewer and further apart, so we took a German tour and were handed a small paper with information and numbered locations. This served as a good reference and our tour guide knew a little English and gave us some tidbits of information during the tour which was much appreciated.

Koblenz, Germany

Following our castle visit, we headed off to Koblenz where we wandered around looking for parking for a while. There are various zones with numbers. It was confusing and just to be safe we opted for an indoor 24-hour public parking spot. Parking was always reasonably priced here (well perhaps except at the hotels), 1 euro usually got us an hour or more. The inside parking for a half day here was 5 euros.

Much of Koblenz historic center is possible to explore on foot. We wandered around the Palace (which was closed to public) admiring the gardens. The famous Deutsches Eck monument marks the confluence of the Moselle and the Rhine rivers. There are boat tours that cruise both rivers, but we were a bit early in the season in late April and we couldn’t find a tour that fit our schedule.

Be sure to take the cable car over to visit the Koblenz Fortress too for some great views. While there was not a whole lot to see at the fortress itself except for the massive size of the place we did sample the apple cake at the restaurant which was excellent.

We saw the dark clouds forming and thought it best to return to our car park with the return ticket on the cable car (which would actually stop working in case of bad storms). Were we ever glad we did. Rushing to the car we started to head out and shortly after we got pelted with half inch hail stones. Pulling over we hid under the alcove of a gas station to ride it out along with other drivers. Everyone was shocked to see the large hail.

Boppard Old Town

Back in Boppard once the rain had subsided, we got out to explore the Old Town and to visit the historic Church of St. Severus next to the Market Square. The basilica was completed 1236 and built atop ancient Roman baths. There is also a small archeological site with the vestiges of a 4 th century Roman citadel.

While the hotel had a nice dining venue, we also enjoyed trying some of the other local spots in town along the waterfront.

Bacharach, Germany

The next day, we also explored Bacharach, another charming little town along the Rhine and another nice place to stay from which one could take day trips. We climbed up to see the ruins of an old chapel (Ruine Wernerkapelle) on a hill and saw the Kirch St. Peter Church.

In the area there were many hiking trails, some of which went from castle to adjacent castle.

Rhine River Cruise

Just steps from our hotel, there was a KD cruise called the Loreley which did a return trip from Boppard to Sankt Goar. It cruises past many of the castles as well as the Loreley Statue. We enjoyed this different vantage point and it was a great way to take pictures of the Katz Castle and the Maus Castle among others.

Further down the Rhine there is also a small castle on an island, the Pfalzgrafenstein Castle. It was originally built as a toll station for all the navigational traffic.

And of course, there were more castles to see. Some are only available to be seen by appointment, but you can still get some great pictures as you travel along the banks of the Rhine and the Moselle.

Staying in a castle

Everyone should have this on their bucket list! Staying in a castle is something that we had tried in Ireland (link) and very much enjoyed. What’s not to like? It was amazing.

There are venues available for every budget ranging from a hostel in a castle in Bacharach to many converted castles turned hotels up and down the Rhine. You must often book early as these venues are popular and rooms are very limited.

Schoenburg Castle

We stayed at the Schoenburg Castle in a tower room where we had to go up a circular staircase to our room. Climbing the medieval stone steps in our tower was very cool! Like being in a medieval movie.

Our room was literally like a museum with huge antique furniture like what we had seen in many of the actual castle museums we had visited. Even cooler was that as you opened the old vintage dresser drawer, there was a flat screen tv and a mini bar or safe built into the furniture. Modern amenities in a thousand-year-old castle!

As a bonus, staying in the castle gave us a key to the expansive private gardens that we could explore. We felt like royalty opening the big cast iron gate with our private key and entering the gardens that had been visited by royals over the last 1,000 years!

The Schoenburg Castle is located in Oberwesel and is well situated to explore the Upper Middle Rhine Valley which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Upper Middle Rhine Valley

Rheinfels castle and ruins.

Next day we continued along the Rhine and stopped at the Rheinfels Castle and Ruins in St. Goar. This too was a wonderful venue to visit and is also available as a hotel.

Although the rooms are adjacent to the castle, you are literally on the castle grounds. Whether staying or not, it was a great place to stop and spend an hour exploring the grounds and what remained of the 13 th century castle-fortress.

Sooneck Castle

Just up the road is the Sooneck Castle overlooking the Rhine. This castle seems to hang off the side of the cliffs. It was beautiful with the many terraces, overlooks and towers. Very picturesque.

The castle dates back to the 1200s and is a delight to explore. You can do a self-guided tour following the suggested itinerary. There is also a small café on site.

Rheinstein Castle

Also close by is the beautiful Rheinstein Castle. We loved the outside firepit hanging from the tower (which was seemingly also used for discipline). You could climb up the narrow stairs to the top of the tower for some great views. They had a great numbered map to layout the self-guided tour.

Bingen, Germany

Further south down the Rhine is the town of Bingen. We drove down for the day and started off by climbing up to the Kloop Castle and its small tower. The hilltop castle is home to the city council of Bingen. While closed when we visited, there was a museum. There was a restaurant on site which looked good too.

From the tower we got great views of the narrow Mouse Tower on the river. This 14 th century tower served as a signal tower until 1974.

Mainz, Germany

The large town of Mainz is one where we had originally planned to stay in a previous failed attempt at visiting Germany. We drove into town and parked along the waterfront to explore the Old Town and the Mainz Cathedral which was also very impressive.

It’s located near the Old Market Square. This 1000-year-old Roman Catholic cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of Mainz.

We stopped briefly at the old Castle Gate for a few photos and up the hill to the Citadel for some views, but the best parts were the historical center and the cathedral.

Moselle Valley

Cochem castle.

Next, we were off to the Moselle where we visited the Cochem Castle (also called Reichburg Castle). Much of this castle had been rebuilt like many of the castles along the Rhine but there were some parts that were 700 years old such as the Witches’ Tower (so named because it was the only thing standing after the French burned down the castle in 1689).

After climbing up the steep hill to the entrance, we saw that they offered guided tours every 15 minutes that lasted 45 minutes. While nice that the tours were frequent and we didn’t have to wait, it really felt pretty rushed. Somewhat like an amusement ride where once done we were ushered back outside the gate and into the castle courtyard 10 euros lighter and somewhat unsatisfied. Even so, it is a famous and popular venue, and we were happy to have come and seen what we could.

Moselle River Cruise

For lunch we hustled back down the steep slope and boarded a short cruise tour on the Moselle to get more pictures of this beautiful hilltop castle from the water.

There wasn’t much else to see along the Moselle, but the boat serves some appetizing traditional lunch dishes (and of course more apple strudel!). We enjoyed resting our feet a bit and relaxing on deck.

Eltz Castle

A bit further afield but a famous venue for river cruisers (and crowded!) the Eltz Castle is in the woods on top of a hill. You can hike up, but we opted for the shuttle that drives up and down the steep slope and costs only 2 euros. A good investment to save our legs for the stairs and terraces to be climbed inside.

The 850-year-old Eltz Castle comes complete with towers and turrets, just what you would expect from a medieval castle. It’s located high up on the banks of a small river in the Moselle Valley. While the castle can only be visited by guided tours you can roam freely to view the castle’s treasury. Unfortunately, photos were not allowed inside the main castle.

Trier, Germany

The next day we drove out to the oldest city in Germany, Trier. This turned out to be one of our favorite cities on our tour.

We started by visiting the colossal city gate, Porta Nigra, dating back to Roman times (160 – 200 AD). We marveled at the Aula Palatina, an ancient Roman throne hall (built for Emperor Constantine in 300 AD) turned Protestant church attached to a castle! Remnants of Roman baths and a coliseum could be found across the city all within walking distance.

Near the Porta Nigra you’ll also find a Karl Marx statue and you can walk up to his childhood home now turned museum.

Of the three cathedrals we saw in Mainz and Cologne and Trier, the Trier Cathedral impressed us the most. Of course, all were spectacular in their own way. But the intricate details and craftsmanship in the marble and wood inside the Cathedral of Trier were just amazing. The hanging organ was adorned with silver flower decorations and was beautiful. We could have spent hours here and not even seen many of the details.

Near the cathedral was the Old Town Square where we enjoyed another traditional meal and found a cathedral cookie shop filled with treats. One of our favorite cities of our trip.

Burg Landshut

On our way back to our hotel, we also drove up the hill to visit Burg Landshut. This impressive hilltop castle ruin has been converted into a restaurant and offers panoramic views of the Moselle Valley.

We walked around admiring the views of the Moselle and the ancient stone walls which were starting to blend together by now and starting to look somewhat the same. Hard to believe we we’re starting to get castled out. Looking at the pictures when planning the trip from home we were sure we’d want to see them all and they all looked unique, but up close they all started to look quite similar.

Another castle hotel stay

For the Moselle part of our trip, we booked at a wonderful Marriott property, the Schloss Lieser. Being frequent Marriott guests, we were upgraded to a wonderful room that again looked like a museum. The huge balcony overlooking the garden had a couple of nesting pigeons sharing a nook with us between the ghoulish looking decorations along the palace walls.

Our room had antique chandeliers, pottery, and even ceramic room warmers like we saw at the various châteaux. Waking up and having coffee on our private terrace looking into the garden below again made us feel like royalty.

The restaurant downstairs was also headed up by a famous chef. Dinner was served in the former living room of the castle and in what was once a lavish residence.

We were so happy to have the upgraded room and decided we would splurge and enjoy a dinner which was excellent. We had to laugh however when we almost decided to share the €20 rhubarb cake made from the rhubarb from the castle’s gardens. I guess we just assumed it would be large for the price but what came out was about two bites. Well, I guess it is Royal rhubarb and when you’re famous you leave them wanting more. Ha-ha!

Bruchsal Palace

As we headed south to Heidelberg, we stopped at the Bruchsal Palace. We had hoped that this palace would be on the scale of Versailles  or Chantilly but despite the online reviews and pictures it did not compare to either.

Unfortunately, much of the palace had been destroyed in the Second World War and while they have been restoring it many of the murals and decorations were painted on and somehow underwhelming. That combined with the somewhat stony-faced curator that demanded I check my small travel purse before entering the castle (like I might try and steal a painting in it somehow!) all kind of soured us towards the venue and we moved on after a quick visit.

Heidelberg, Germany

Back on the road our next and final stop on our Rhine Valley road trip was the furthest south, the town of Heidelberg. The Heidelberg Castle overshadows the whole town and is simply enormous. We saved this for our second day and opted to cross the river and climb up to the Philosophers’ Way to get views of the castle and the town from across the Neckar.

Heidelberg Castle

The castle is simply outstanding. Some parts date back to the 1200s and despite the castle being ravaged by fire and wars, it’s a must-see. The inner rooms can only be visited with a guided tour which is well worth it. There are English tours many times per day, and we timed our arrival around this.

Even after the tour, you can easily spend hours exploring the gardens and the other venues in the castle such as the Pharmacy Museum showcasing old potions and tools from the Middle Ages. You’ll also find what was the largest wine barrel we had ever seen. Holding a record 221,726 liters it is an impressive site. It even has a dance floor on top of it!

Heidelberg Old Town

Making our way down the steep hill into the town we explored the iconic Old Bridge along with the Brass Monkey statue. Made as a reminder to everyone about equality the idea was that it didn’t matter if you lived in the city or outside the city, we are all equal.

We visited some of the other churches and walked in the Old Town.

We happened to be in town for the asparagus festival and every restaurant had white asparagus special dishes. Much milder that the green asparagus we’re accustomed to, we enjoyed tasting the specials consisting of white asparagus spears with hollandaise sauce and new potatoes. A simple but delicious dish!

And back to Cologne

And with that we headed back to Cologne where we would spend our final day before our early train and plane combo ticket back home.

We had some friends of ours come up to meet us from Berlin by train. Nora and Claudia are fellow scuba divers with whom we’ve developed a friendship over the years. They actually adopted our first prototype Dryfob container. As native Germans, they led us off the tourist track in Cologne and showed us a side of the city that most tourists don’t get to see.

We walked across beautiful parks and enjoyed local food at a local cafe (filled with birch trees). We were thrilled that they took the time to come meet us and to make our final day in Germany so special.

Starting out we were not quite sure what to expect in Germany’s Rhine Valley. Would it be like our castle adventure in the Loire Valley , or like Ireland . It actually turned out to be just different. A unique adventure and something we enjoyed having the opportunity to do.

While we tried our best at a few words in German, most places spoke English well enough that we could get by.

We purposefully left out some of the castles further south with the expectation that one day we would be back to enjoy Munich and Bavaria.

When we planned the trip, we thought that the car would be convenient but in reality, the trains and boats were so plentiful and frequent that with a little more planning and preparation one could certainly do this trip without a car and having to worry about driving and parking.

There are also many charming riverside villages to choose from where one could stay, and many castle-hotels and restaurants to be enjoyed. Part of the fun is taking a chance and trying something new. Germany’s Rhine Valley is a wonderful experience not to be missed.

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• Tags Cultural Trips , Europe , European Road Trips , Germany , Road Trips , Self-Guided Tours

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Rhine River Valley Road Trip

Expect on your itinerary.

Best months to drive

Road trip costs.

How much does it cost to go on a Rhine River Valley Road Trip in Germany?

Rhine River Valley Road Trip Itinerary

Start cologne.

• Fast - The infrastructure and traffic allow an average speed of >80 km/h (or 50 mi/h) on this stage. This means a speedy and smooth ride for you without any unplanned delays.
• Modest - The infrastructure and traffic allow an average speed of >50 km/h (or 30 mi/h) on this stage. This means a reasonably smooth ride for you without unplanned delays.
• Slow - The infrastructure and traffic allow an average speed of well below 50 km/h (or 30 mi/h) on this leg. This means a slow ride for you. Unplanned delays are to be expected at any time.
• CGN - Cologne Bonn Airport
• DUS - Düsseldorf Airport

1 Cologne - Bonn - Königswinter

2 königswinter - unkel, 3 unkel - remagen - linz am rhein, 4 linz am rhein - andernach, 5 andernach - koblenz, 6 koblenz - lahnstein - boppard, 7 boppard - sankt goar, 8 sankt goar - bacharach, 9 bacharach - rüdesheim, 10 rüdesheim - mainz,   mainz, rhine river valley road trip at a glance.

• Start : Cologne
• End : Mainz
• Distance : 226 km
• Stay : 2 days
• Getting there : Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN), Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)
• When to drive : May, June, July, August, September
• More info : More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.

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Europe , Germany , Road Trip · November 4, 2021

The Best Mosel Valley Road Trip, Germany

In the summer of 2021 we spent three weeks on a road trip through Germany , the main focus of our time was the beautiful Mosel Valley located in the Rhine Palatinate region of Germany. We had been told by a few people that you only needed one of two days to see the region but we wanted to focus on traveling a little slower so instead chose to spend 5 days in the Mosel region. Personally, I think 5 days was the perfect amount of time to spend here as it gave us time to really explore the small towns, such as Beilstein and Ediger-Eller, hike through the wineries to some incredible viewpoints, visit the castles we wanted to see and take some day trips to places such as Burg Eltz .

The Mosel Valley is a small region, and thus the best way to experience the area on a road trip is to base yourself in one town and use the days you have to explore the surrounding area. For us, this meant camping in Ediger-Eller, by the Mosel River, and spending days driving, or cycling, to other towns in the region.

In this travel guide I will take you through the best things to see and do in the Mosel valley, some of the best hikes, possible day trips, and how to best enjoy your time in this small, picturesque wine region! 

Please note that this post contains affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase through the link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I make sure to only ever promote products and brands I have used and like, and that all links are to trusted websites.

The Towns of the Mosel Valley

Cochem is the biggest city along the Mosel river and marks the beginning of what is traditionally thought of as the Mosel Valley (or Mosel Tal in German!) Cochem is a thriving city, compared with its neighboring small villages, and is the place to go if you want to have a lot of choices in restaurants, bars, and clubs. Cochem is also where the majority of Mosel valley river cruises depart from. I will talk more about this later but from here you can take dinner cruises, day tours, and trips to the Rhine river region. 

If you are not traveling by car, this is probably the best place to stay in the Mosel Valley. Cochem has the best connections to bus routes (including the cycle bus), boat tours and river cruises, and transport to and from the rest of Germany.

If you are driving from the North on your Mosel Valley Road Trip, Cochem is likely the first village you will come across. It is the best place to stock up on groceries and necessities before continuing on your trip as most of the shops here are bigger and have a better range!

Ediger-Eller

Ediger-Eller was where we based ourselves for the majority of our trip to the Mosel Valley. We were on a camping road trip through the valley and what we loved most about this town is that it was not only a great base for exploring both the northern and southern sections of the Mosel river region, but it was also a great town in its own right. With several restaurants, wineries, and bakeries, swimming spots by the water, bike hire, and canoe hire, the town was always a great place to return to after a day of adventure. 

In Ediger-Eller I would make sure to check out Fatis Backerei und Cafe, Weingut Walter J. Oster, and get breakfast from Moselromantik-Hotel Zum Löwen, and all of the small businesses selling jams and marmalades in notice-board shops hung up on the walls of the village.

Camping in Ediger-Eller, along the Mosel River

The camping site was beautiful, set right by the river with swimming spots and a big grass area for your tents and camper vans. The amenities were always clean and there was even a bar that was open in the evenings, with special events on for sports games. You could really feel the campsite culture here, and after a few days starting to get to know those around you, you begin to understand why people love to stay here for their whole summer holiday.

I loved staying here as our Mosel Valley Road Trip was all about trying to experience the area as much as we could in a slow and sustainable fashion. This meant that we could have slow mornings walking up and down the river followed by evenings tasting wines in the Weingut’s. It also meant we were quite central and could spend the day time exploring other areas of the Mosel Valley and even towns along the Rhine River.

Beilstein was my favourite of the villages along the Mosel Valley. Just like the setting of beauty and the beast, Beilstein is a little village situated on a hill by the water. It has a castle towering above, colourful, traditional-style houses, and an abundance of plant life. Because of this reason, Beilstein was also my favourite village to look at from the other side of the Mosel river as we cycled down the valley. This is a stop you must visit on any Mosel Valley Road Trip, even if it is just for a short walk and an ice cream!

What to do in Beilstein:

• Visit Metternich Castle
• Get gelato from Bastians Eiscafe

The best things to do in the Mosel Valley

Taking a river cruise down the mosel river.

River cruises are a very popular thing to do in this region. Whether you want something that lasts only a few hours, a hop-on and hop-off style shuttle, an overnight stay, or a week-long cruise, there is likely something that will catch your attention in the Mosel Valley. The majority of river cruises depart from the city of Cochem and either head south towards Trier, or north towards Koblenz where they start to explore the Rhine river region.

Mosel Valley Wine Tasting

Visit a “weingut”.

A “Weingut” translates to “Winery”, and in the Mosel Valley, they often take the form of small bars owned by local wineries where you can go and taste wines and enjoy some light snacks. These are scattered throughout the small villages along the Mosel River and you will find you will be wanting to visit more than once over the course of your stay!

A Guided Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting

When you are in one of the best wine regions in Germany, you can’t miss out on a wine tour! A wine tour, like this one , is a great way to get to know a bit more about the history of the area and the grape varieties you are most likely to find. 

Hiking around the Mosel Valley

Hiking to view points in bremm.

Some of the best viewpoints in the Mosel valley are in Bremm. These are Moselschleife Bremm Aussichtspunkt, Aussichtspunkt Calmont, and Gipfelkreuz. If you want to walk, the hike up from Bremm is beautiful, although quite difficult at times. Otherwise, it is possible to drive up to Gipfelkreuz and from there it is only a short hike down to Aussichtspunkt Calmont. You can access Moselschleife Bremm Aussichtspunkt quite easily by walking from Bremm as it exists at the beginning of the harder hike.

The Calmont Klettersteig

This is an incredible hike that wraps around the hills of the Mosel Valley with the best view over the river. The walk begins at Parkplatz Calmont Klettersteig and continues up past the view point Moselschleife Bremm Aussichtspunkt. As a Klettersteig, this walk is difficult and often involves walking on thin pathways in between grapevines with nothing to stop you from falling. I recommend only doing it in really good weather as it was quite dangerous otherwise! 

Cycling in the Mosel Valley

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the Mosel Valley. It was amazing to be able to stop in all the different villages for a short walk or a coffee, and get to see everything that the Mosel River region has to offer! 

Where to Hire Bikes in the Mosel valley

If you can’t bring your own, it’s very easy to hire bikes in the Mosel valley! There are many shops in each town that hire bikes for half a day, a full day, or multiple days! We hired ours from Freie Tankstelle in Ediger Eller. It was open from 10-6 on a Sunday. For us, this wasn’t quite enough time so I would recommend either taking multiple days or hiring on a weekday when the opening hours are 7 – 6.30 instead!

The Bike Bus

From early spring to late autumn there is a bike bus that drives around the Mosel Valley. This is a great way to see several parts of the region. Here, the buses are equipped with a bike rack so you can start your journey from any of the points along the route. 

https://www.mosel-inside.de/en/middle-mosel/67-regio-radler-bus.html

Castle spotting along the Rhine river

A day trip to the Rhine River region is a great thing to do on your visit to the Mosel Valley! It is only a short drive north to the town of Koblenz, where you can then drive south along the Rhine and castle spot along the way. The Rhine is home to so many picturesque small villages and hundreds of castles!

The Best Castles to Visit from the Mosel Valley

Reichsburg castle.

Reichsburg castle is unmissable as it towers over Cochem. It is a great activity if you are based in Cochem and is only a 15-minute walk from the center of town. 

Metternich Castle

Metternich castle is located above the beautiful village of Beilstein and is more ruins than a still running castle. It is only a short walk from the center of Beilstein and has amazing views over the Mosel Valley. 

Burg Eltz is just outside the Mosel Valley but is worth a visit if you are in the area! It is a 27-minute drive from Cochem, through beautiful forest land. The castle is known as one of the most spectacular in Germany, with a courtyard of many colors and a fairytale demeanor. 

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The Rhine Valley- Top Things to do on a Day Trip From Frankfurt

From postcard views to breathtaking natural beauty, from castles and hills to mouthwatering food, The Rhine Valley has it all for everyone who wishes to go looking. Come with us as we take you through the top things to do there to have an unforgettable time!

Guten Tag Wanderlusters! Get ready to be whisked away to the land of picturesque landscapes, enchanting towns, and centuries-old castles. It’s time to turn our compass needles towards the Rhine Valley.

Just a stone’s throw away from Frankfurt, Rhine Valley has scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage all bundled into one. So, grab your travel hat and passports and get ready to dive into an unforgettable escapade with a list of top things to do there. 

Table of Contents

How to Reach Rhine Valley from Frankfurt

If you love the idea of gazing out of a train window as the scenic landscapes pass you by, taking the train is the way to reach the Rhine Valley. Head to Frankfurt’s main train station, Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, and hop on a direct train to any of the charming Rhine Valley towns. Trains run frequently, so you won’t have to keep waiting long. 

Tour Bus: 

If you are not in the mood to worry about transportation logistics then no need to worry. You’ll find plenty of guided tours that will whisk you away from Frankfurt and take care of everything for you. All you’ll have to do is be there to be mesmerized. Look for Rhine Valley day trips that include transportation, expert guides, and an exciting itinerary that matches our list of things to do there.

Do road trips enchant you? Do you prefer having the freedom to stop wherever your heart desires? Then you must consider renting a car in Frankfurt. The drive to the Rhine Valley is quite smooth and straightforward, so no worry there. And the scenic route will make it all the more fun for you and your loved ones. 

Cruise: 

For a truly magical experience, sail your way to the Rhine Valley. Keep your eyes peeled for river cruises departing from Frankfurt, pick one of your choice and let the gentle waves carry you through the heart of the region. 

Combination of Train and Bike:  

Get your adventure on and go a little extra. Take a train from Frankfurt to one of the towns in the Rhine Valley and rent a bike from there. It is the best way to explore the picturesque landscapes at your own pace, stop for a wine tasting, and soak in the Rhine Valley’s beauty up close.

Top Things to do in Rhine Valley 

Cruise along the river rhine.

The best way to kickstart your Rhine Valley adventure is by taking a relaxing cruise along the River Rhine. Marvel at the rolling hills, lush vineyards, and fairytale castles that dot the landscape. Let the gentle breeze caress your face, and immediately you’ll feel like you’re sailing through a painting. Don’t forget to snap some IG worthy shots, and if you’re lucky, you might spot the legendary Lorelei rock too.

Visit The Old and Charming Medieval Castles

The Rhine Valley is home to some of the most magnificent castles in the continent of Europe. And each has its own unique history. One of them is Burg Eltz, nestled in a deep forest, which will transport you back in time with its fairytale appearance. Another one is Marksburg Castle, situated on a hill, and it also offers magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. 

Revel in Some Wine Tasting Extravaganza

In Vino there is truth and to know more of it The Rhine Valley is the place for you. Because it is very famous for its vineyards and world-class wines. Go to Rüdesheim or Bacharach, where you can indulge in some delightful wine tasting experiences. Sip on refreshing Rieslings and rich Pinot Noirs as you learn about the art of winemaking from the passionate locals. 

Stroll Through Enchanting Fairytale-like Towns

The Rhine Valley is peppered with enchanting, storybook-like towns that seem like they’ve appeared straight out of a fairy tale. Visit Bacharach, a medieval town with half-timbered houses and cobbled streets. And also remember to wander through the romantic streets of Oberwesel. And yes, don’t forget to explore the historic city of Mainz, where you can visit the impressive Mainz Cathedral and the Gutenberg Museum as well.

Get your Adrenaline on with Some Hiking and Biking

Nature lovers, rejoice! The Rhine Valley offers a plethora of hiking and biking trails, catering to all levels of adventurers. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the Rheinsteig trail, which winds through vineyards, forests, and awe-inspiring viewpoints. For two-wheeled enthusiasts, the Rhine Cycle Path offers a fantastic way to explore the region at a leisurely pace.

Take a Detour to the Famous Black Forest

While in the region, you must extend your adventure and take a short detour to the Black Forest. A mere few hours away, this magical woodland boasts fairytale landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and absolutely awesome villages. And of course, once there you must indulge in some delectable Black Forest cake also. 

Experience the Rhine in The Flames Festival

If your visit coincides with the Rhine in Flames Festival, consider yourself lucky! This annual event lights up the night sky with a spectacular fireworks display set against the stunning backdrop of the Rhine River and its castles. It’s a sight you won’t want to miss!

Discover Loreley and its Charms

No trip to the Rhine Valley would be complete without paying homage to the mythical Loreley. According to legend, a beautiful siren named Loreley used to sit on a rock and enchant sailors with her mesmerizing voice, leading to their demise. Visit the Loreley Visitor Center, learn more about the legend, and take in the breathtaking views of the river.

Savor The Famous Rhine Valley Cuisine

You cannot simply imagine leaving without getting a taste of the local cuisine.The Rhine Valley is not only famous for its wines but also for its amazing cuisine. You must try some traditional German dishes like schnitzel, sauerbraten, and bratwurst. Also devour some  local specialties such as Rheinischer Sauerbraten (marinated roast beef) and Handkäse mit Musik (cheese with onions and vinaigrette). And yes, don’t forget to pair your meals with the region’s finest wines for an authentic experience.

Relax with The Rheinfels Spa Experience

After all the exploring, you will definitely want to pamper yourself at one of the area’s luxury spas. Rheinfels Spa, located in Sankt Goar, will provide you a perfect blend of relaxation and rejuvenation. Unwind in its thermal baths, saunas, and steam rooms, all the while gazing at the breathtaking views of the Rhine River. Your body will surely thank you after you’ve treated yourself to a soothing massage or spa treatment.

Live for The Night with The Drosselgasse Nightlife

As the sun sets, the fun at The Rhine Valley only just begins. Head to Rüdesheim’s famous Drosselgasse. It is a lively street filled with charming pubs, wine bars, and live music venues which will make you live for the night like never before. Join the locals in singing traditional German songs and dancing the night away.

Explore the Scenic Drachenfels Hill and Castle

For the lovers of mythology and panoramic views, a visit to Drachenfels Hill and Castle is a must. According to the famous legend, this hill was home to a dragon that was slain by the hero Siegfried. Total Game of Thrones vibes! Also remember to take a short hike up the hill or ride the Drachenfels Railway to reach the top, where you’ll be welcomed by breathtaking vistas of the Rhine Valley.

Attend a Local Festival and Get The Local Feels

All the festival lovers, The Rhine Valley has more to offer to you. There are many festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from wine and food to culture and music. What else could one want for? So remember to check the local calendar for events like the Rheingau Wine Festival, the Rüdesheimer Wine Market, or the Bacharach Wine Festival. And have an unforgettable time.

So Wanderlusters, now you know what to do if you ever find yourself in the Rhine Valley or want to plan a vacation. 

Grab your swimming suits, sunglasses and backpacks and head to this land of scenic beauty. And who knows you might take more than just good memories back with you. 

Some FAQs For You

The prettiest place on the Rhine will obviously depend on your own particular preferences. But some popular scenic spots you might want to check out include Bacharach, St. Goar, and the Loreley Rock.

Absolutely, you can definitely walk along the Rhine River. There are many designated paths and promenades where you can take walks.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, as the saying goes. But both the Danube and Rhine offer stunning landscapes, historic towns, and charming vistas. You can choose as per your own preferences. 

The best time to visit the Rhine River is during late spring to early autumn (May to September). So that you can enjoy pleasant weather and have a good time.

Swimmers, this is good news for you. Swimming is allowed in some areas of the Rhine Valley. But yes it can be dangerous due to strong currents and shipping traffic. 

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The Perfect Mosel Valley Itinerary: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting German Wine Country

• September 22, 2020

Germany wine country was something I didn’t know much about prior to planning our summer 2020 trip to Germany. I stumbled upon the Mosel Valley while drafting our German road trip itinerary from Sweden down to the German Alps, and I began looking at the best places for us to stop along the way. I had heard about the towns of the Rhine Valley, but I had never heard of the Mosel Valley before. However, the more I looked into it I was convinced that we must spend a couple days here and began putting together a Mosel Valley itinerary.

I mean… Wine and vineyards and quintessentially romantic German villages? Count me in!

I was a little bit skeptical to share this magical gem, because I feel like it is still largely off the main tourism trail. While we were there, it seemed that many locals had caught on to how special this sleepy region is, but it seems to still be off the radar of international tourists.

For those of you hearing about this region for the first time, the Mosel River runs through central-western Germany and is home to he most perfect little towns. You could spend days and days town-hopping along the Mosel River and admiring the almost-90-degree vineyards that scale the side of the river. But, if you only have a couple days like us, I’m going to give you the details on all the places you can’t miss!

We really loved Ernst because it felt more local. Historical homes with children playing outside. Winding cobblestone streets. And if you want to the backside of the town, there are plenty of vineyards you can wander through and explore! You don’t need much time here, but the parking along the main road is free, and I found it to be really charming.

We didn’t spend much time in Zell, but we did make a stop here for a wine tasting. Zell is home to Zeller Schwarze Katz , or “Zell’s Black Cat.” The photo of the towns black cat mascot is on every bottle of wine, and has origins on folklore tales of the town. While wandering through Zell, you’re bound to come across many variations of black cat statues, sculptures, figurines souvenirs, and paintings of the iconic black cat (usually holding a glass of riesling).

I’d highly recommend stopping into this town for a tasting like we did. Although the black cat obsession may seem a bit silly,  we loved the wine sourced from “black cat mountain” so much we bought a few bottles to bring home.

traben-trarbach

The last stop on my Mosel Valley itinerary is Traben-Trarbach, which dates back to 830. And this one is really charming! This is a great place to unwind at the end of your day Mosel Valley town-hopping, and you’re guaranteed to find a great glass of wine here. For hiking enthusiasts, there are some great trails around here too that take you into the vineyards.

How to get around the Mosel Valley

Mosel Valley by Car: In the interest of time, we opted to drive around the Mosel Valley. Driving alongside the Mosel River was beautiful, and we found the region easy to navigate by car. You’ll normally find Mosel Valley parking lots along the river side at the foot of each town. In less popular towns, parking is typically free. However, you’ll have to pay a small amount in more popular towns, like Cochem or Beilstein, so make sure you have change for the parking meters. 

Mosel Valley by Bike: We saw many people biking in the Mosel Valley from town-to-town. If we had more time, I would have loved this option. There were bike paths alongside the river connecting the towns, which meant it was easy and safe to bike.

Mosel Valley by Foot:  If you’re feeling adventurous and have a lot of time to spend in the regions, you’ll find lots of Mosel Valley hiking paths leading through the vineyards and connecting the towns.

Things to Do near the mosel valley

Burg eltz castle.

get ready to fall in love with german's wine country with this mosel valley itinerary!

I was so pleasantly surprised by the Mosel Valley and I hope you use this Mosel Valley itinerary to have the best time in German wine country!

Heading down to German Alps?  Check out my guide!

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Moscow to Kostroma via Elektrostal

Moscow to kostroma road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Moscow to Kostroma. If you're planning a road trip to Kostroma, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Moscow drive for about 1 hour

11:07 am   Elektrostal stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:07 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

1:50 pm   Vladimir stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:50 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

4:25 pm   Ivanovo stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:25 pm drive for about 1 hour

6:31 pm  arrive in Kostroma

driving ≈ 5.5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Elektrostal Vladimir   (2 answers) Ivanovo

What are some things to do in Kostroma?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Kostroma.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Kostroma to Moscow drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Moscow to Kostroma . Or get a full Moscow to Kostroma flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Moscow well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Moscow!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Moscow to Kostroma

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions