Every month, we are highlighting a different destination to equip you with inspiration and knowledge you can confidently translate into client recommendations. Today, we’re heading to Germany’s Romantic Rhine and Moselle Valleys, where storybook castles, scenic river landscapes, and charming villages create an unforgettable sense of place.
Our Hot Tip was written by your colleague, Debbie Wilson, CTA, who recently returned from her trip and is generously sharing her firsthand insights and expertise.
But first, if you’re looking to deepen your Europe knowledge even further, you can explore our destination specialist courses focused on Northern, Southern, and Central Europe, available to subscribers 24/7 in our Education Hub.
Here is what Debbie has to say:
I love castles, which is what prompted us to plan a trip to Germany! We decided to spend several days in Koblenz, a perfect base for exploring both the Upper Middle Rhine Valley and the Moselle River area.
The roughly 40-mile stretch of the Upper Middle Rhine between Koblenz and Rüdesheim features about 40 castles and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (note the German spellings: “Mosel” and “Rhein”).
Rhine Cruise
Allow a full day for a leisurely cruise up the Rhine from Koblenz to Rüdesheim on the historic paddle steamer Goethe. This route is a photographer’s dream, with castles lining both sides of the river. If you take the full cruise, leave time to explore Rüdesheim—especially Drosselgasse, a narrow cobblestone lane filled with shops and restaurants. Trains run frequently back to Koblenz (about 1–1.5 hours). TIP: Download the DB (Deutsche Bahn) Navigator app for schedules and tickets.
Koblenz
Koblenz is ideally located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers and is very walkable. Deutsches Eck (German Corner), where the two rivers meet, features a towering equestrian statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I.
One of Germany’s oldest cities, Koblenz celebrated its 2000th anniversary in 1992. We loved wandering Old Town (Altstadt), exploring its squares, alleyways, shops, and cafés. One of our most memorable afternoons was spent sitting at a small café on Jesuit Square on a drizzly day, sipping lattes and beer while a violinist played nearby—it was magical. Don’t feel the need to rush; take time to soak in the atmosphere.
Take the cable car to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for sweeping views of the city and rivers. Originally built by the Prussians for defense, it now offers exhibits, museums, and events.
Burg Eltz
A must-see was Burg Eltz in the Moselle Valley—famously a favorite of Rick Steves. We took a scenic train to Hatzenport, then a bus, followed by a short forest walk. Our first glimpse of the castle was breathtaking.
Unlike many German castles, Burg Eltz has remained intact since the 12th century and is still owned by the same family. The English-language tour was both informative and engaging.
Zell and Trier
I had always wanted to stay in a castle, which led us to the village of Zell. We spent two nights at Schloss Zell, a 16th-century castle just steps from the River Moselle. Our hosts were gracious, and meals in the castle dining room were excellent.
A day trip to Trier was both educational and surprising. Known as Germany’s oldest city, it dates to Roman times and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the Porta Nigra, Roman baths, amphitheater, and Trier Cathedral—the oldest in Germany.
There is so much more I could include—walks along the Moselle, river traffic, Lorelei Rock, and wonderful German food (especially schnitzel), beer, and wine. I highly recommend a trip to the Rhine and Moselle Valleys! Be sure to leave time to relax, explore, and truly enjoy this beautiful and historic region.
Thanks so much, Debbie!
