Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one and make a purchase, I might make a little extra spending money, at no extra cost to you. As always, all opinions are my own and these products/services have been found useful during our travels and come highly recommended to you from yours truly!
When you think of Germany, you undoubtedly imagine castles like Schloss Neuschwanstein or half-timbered towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber. But what if I were to tell you, that there is more to Germany beyond the most touristy places of other romantic castles and historic towns offering a glimpse into the past? Would you believe me?
I hope so, because I’m about to introduce to you the small historic town of Cochem, located in Rhineland-Palantine, not far from Koblenz which sits along the left bank of the Mosel river making it one of the top attractions in the Mosel Valley!
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How to AVOID Looking Like a Tourist in Europe
Quite off the beaten track in Germany, but not completely unknown to tourists, this picturesque town with his cobbled-stoned allies and half-timbered houses is packed with quaint cafes and restaurants, surrounded by rolling hills of vineyards topped with the an Imperial Castle which is one of the most unique castles in Germany to visit and is as STUPID PRETTY as they come!
Have I wet your taste buds yet?
While the town is certainly small and can be easily seen within a day, there are plenty of reasons to extend your stay. No need to hit this town with a wham-bam-thank-you-ma’am, checked you off my bucket list!
Undoubtedly the reason most tourists flock anywhere is because of the hope they will be transported back to a time when kings and queens ruled, prince charming rode up on his white horse and saved the damsel in distress and towns that are absolutely Disney-eqsue. Thanks a lot Disney for giving me unrealistic hopes & dreams!
Reichsburg Castle (aka Cochem Castle)
Though fall was just getting underway when we visited, autumn is clearly the best time of year to visit Germany as the country in plunged into vibrant reds, yellows and oranges in what is known as a “Golden October”. So it’s rather redundant of me to say as it’s so obvious, but Cochem is one of the best places to visit in Germany in autumn!
The castle we see today perched above the scenic town is not the castle that originally stood there in the 12th century. That castle was destroyed by the French King Louis XIV in 1689. The castle would sit in ruins for 180 years before a wealthy Business man named Louis Ravené decided to buy the ruins and restore it to it’s original Romanesque beauty. Surprisingly, Ravené began reconstruction on the castle the same year that King Ludwig II of Bavaria decided to reconstruct the now famous Schloss Neuschwanstein.
Different days bring different events to the castle. You may find a wine fest going on, a Castle fest (first weekend in August), a Knight’s meal (every Friday & Saturday) and so much more making for some of the best experiences to have in Germany!
Tips for Visiting the Reichsburg Castle
- The castle is only open from March 12 – November 1st (+/- a few days depending on the year) from 9am to 5pm with guided tours.
- Adults cost 6 €, children 3 € (Details here)
- The tour takes about 40 minutes and are in German but come with an English translation card.
- There is no parking at the castle, and highly not recommended to try.
- There is a shuttle bus which takes you up to the castle. (Details here)
Have I suckered you in yet? Is your mouth drooling yet? No, well here’s another picture to make your jaw drop!
Take a Stroll Along the Mosel Promenade
The Mosel river is one of the longest tributaries of the Rhine. Like the Rhine, the Mosel was once an important trading route between France and Luxembourg. The banks of the river are steep and are lined with endless rows of grapevines and castles. Castles were built along the river as a way to collect tolls from merchant vessels coming up and down the rivers.
Meander Through the Historic Town
Put away your map and stroll through the small allies and hang out in the Market Square. Here you’ll find the Rathaus (City Hall) and the pretty St. Martin fountain. Here you’ll be able to stock up on some souvenir goodies or stop and enjoy a cafe! If you love to staying in hotels in the heart of the town, then consider staying at Hotel am Markt, directly in the square. We enjoyed an incredibly comfortable stay here!
Go Wine Tasting
Considering that you’ll be in the heart of the wine region, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the region’s most delicious wines throughout the entire year. During the month of June, there is the Mosel Wine Week where you can try more than 300 wines from 12 wine stands! (But not as once!)
Take a Ride on the Mosel-Wein Express
Not looking forward to doing a bunch of walking? Then hope aboard the Mosel-Wein Express! This small street train is an affordable way to explore Cochem and is packed with fascinating information about the historic town. The ride takes about 30 minutes and begins near the Visitor Center. You can catch the train from under the Main Bridge near a colorful wall mural of the town’s history.
Sample Some Mustard
Yes, mustard. I know, it sounds strange but believe me it’s quite interesting! Just across the river and to the left of the bridge, is the historical mustard mill of Senfmühle. It is one of the oldest mustard mills in Europe and one of the last few mills. There are assorted kinds of exceptional gourmet mustard which still follow historic recipes dating back to the 15th century and select ingredients. Sampling is free!
Overall, I’m glad we went a little out of our way from the Rhine Valley to come here for a day trip! I specifically waited until the fall to come to this town because every picture I have ever seen of the town and castle was stunning in fall foliage. It was just a dreamy and just as magical as any other castle in Germany! I particularly enjoyed the lack of tourists here and visiting Cochem is one of the best things to do in Germany in autumn!
There is plenty more to do and we were sad that we couldn’t squeeze it all in! It’s definitely one of the most breathtaking regions in Germany, so we will return!
If you’re interested in visiting Germany and are looking for more information, I highly recommend using the DK Eyewitness Travel Guide! Without these guides, I would be lost! This is my travel Bible!
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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one and make a purchase, I might make a little extra spending money, at no extra cost to you. As always, all opinions are my own and these products/services have been found useful during our travels and come highly recommended to you from yours truly!
More on the Mosel Valley & Nearby:
The Delectable Town of Bacharach
The Darling Storybook Town of Rüdesheim am Rhine
Liked this post? PIN IT FOR LATER!!
Fantastic post! Cochem looks so pretty. I am amazed how many cute little towns there seem to be in Germany! 😀
There are a plethora of cute towns and I’ve only scratched the surface!
I love all the beautiful scenery that surrounds those little towns!!
The Mosel Valley is definitely a region of Germany I underestimated until I visited Cochem this past May. I can’t wait to get back and explore more of the little towns and villages. It’s such a gorgeous place!
Couldn’t agree more!! It was soooo beautiful I could move there and never get bored!
I especially love the fall view of the castle! So pretty!
I waited all year until the fall just for the pictures 🙂 fall is my favorite season!
What a gorgeous view – seriously postcard-perfect 🙂
You had me at castle. I love exploring castles and Reichsburg Castle is in a very beautiful setting. #wanderfulwednesday
Another beautiful spot in Germany you’ve come across. Each time I see your posts they make me want to visit Germany again. The castle and the riverfront are just so picturesque. Pinned for later! #WanderfulWednesday
Oooh I’m so glad to hear that! You definitely need to go! It’s so amazing!
Literally my jaw hit the floor! Cochem looks like such a beautiful town, and I love that the castle is surrounded by vineyards! I think that I’d be quite at home there, and of course it gives me another “excuse” to visit Germany again! I could also go for some mustard tasting too!
As usual you’ve found yet another perfect German town! This place looks adorable. So green and colorful.. And so much to do! Looks like a great place to visit and such great suggestions! 😀
Terribly adorable this place Cochem! Great post and glad to have you back for #FarawayFiles – cheers from Copenhagen, Erin
Thank you! Glad to finally get back to normalcy!
A castle, colourful houses, a train AND good wine. Now those are all fantastic reasons to visit. Cochem looks adorable. Thanks so much for sharing it with us on #FarawayFiles
And congratulations on your wedding! Cx
Thank you!! 🙂
Germany has so many beautiful castles doesn’t it? This one looks stunning! I have a soft spot for Neuschwanstein, but I try to go when it’s not too busy! 😀
This makes my heart so happy! I probably would be like a child if I go there myself, won’t stop squealing at the beauty I’m seeing around me. I guess I need to stay there for a whole month to attend the numerous events being held in the castle! 🙂
All aboard the Mosel-Wein express for me! Did you try the wine? In Australia the Moselle (they Frenchify it) variety can be very sweet. You really have a knack of finding the prettiest places in Germany. And big congrats on the wedding. I cannot wait to see the pictures. Thanks for showing us the gorgeous villages of Germany on #FarawayFiles
When I think of Europe I think of these kind of historic picturesque towns, not big cities like Frankfurt.
Thank you for your sweet words! I’m sure I’ll share a picture or two! 🙂
It really is the most wonderful chocolate-box area of Germany. We were on a Main-Rhine river cruise last year and adored the day when we played ‘castle tennis’ – our eyes bouncing from left to right to spot one fabulous castle after another. I can’t remember Reichsburg so I’m so glad to have a look at it now – so pretty.
#farawayfiles
It’s not located on the Rhine, but less than an hour away on the Mosel River 🙂 hope you can see it for yourself one day!
I’ve just noticed! Got my map out after I’d commented and realised the rivers split at Koblenz so no wonder I didn’t see it. 🙂
Your photos are lovely! I like the castle perched at the top of the hill and the large house/ manor perched midway, with the regular homes at ground level by the river.
Your photo of the castle on the hill with the town houses below is amazing. The tip on tasting the mustard is something I’ll remember if I’m in the town (it’s a bit quirky but I like that sort of thing!)
I like how you have been combing major tourist sites in Germany with more offbeat suggestions — great ideas for a country we return to every few years and where we want to see new things each time.
What a scenic village with the castle on the hill just lovely. I have only been to Munich a long time ago.
Ooooh this is SUCH a beautiful castle!
Cochem is one of my favorite castles in Germany. If you have a little extra time in the area, Burg Elz is another great castle in the neighborhood. #wkendtravelinspiration
Yes, I have already been to Burg Eltz. In fact on this day we tried to go again, but there was crazy traffic to find parking to get to that castle so we skipped it. I would really like to see it again! Thanks for the tip nonetheless! 🙂
Such a pretty place and one I want to visit but I’ll leave the mustard tasting for hubby . With the castle and beautiful scenery this place would be a photographers dream location.
What a blessing to be able to visit all these beautiful castles in Germany. When I lived in Romania we weren’t allowed to travel anywhere outside the borders and now it’s quite expensive to go to Europe from California. Reichsburg Castle is definitely a photographer’s dream. #TheWeeklyPostcard
How strange to hear that at one time you couldn’t leave Romania! We’ll be headed there as part of out Honeymoon road trip!
You had me from the first photo, haha. And I was definitely sold when I saw wine tasting! 😀 I need to make Germany a priority, so many beautiful places to see. #TheWeeklyPostcard
You do! Needs to be on your 2017 Bucket List!
Germany is my favourite country to travel to and I also loved Cochem! Thanks for the great read.
First of all, Cochem is gorgeous year round, but how awesome is it that you were able to catch it when all of the leaves had turned?! The Moselle area is definitely one of my favorite areas in Germany. I’ve been blessed to find myself living right where the Moselle and Eifel regions meet, so my husband and I take day trips out to the river all the time. Did you get a chance to take a boat ride down the river while you were there?
-Stacy
http://www.eifelmausi.com
No we didn’t! 🙁 We really fell in love with the region though so we will be back! 🙂
This is gorgeous! Thinking of making Cochem our base for the first couple of nights and it’s awesome to read up on it beforehand. Have a great weekend! Yet another snowstorm here that’s closed roads. The planes are even freezing to the tarmac at the airport so hunkered down inside trying to get a handle on where we are going! Combing through your site as it has the BEST info, thanks!
It’s a great place to start! Burg Eltz is also nearby!