Cochem is a small wine town of about 5,300 people on the Moselle River in western Germany, best known for the Reichsburg (Imperial Castle) crowning the hill above and a fairy-tale old town of slate-roofed, half-timbered houses. Its market square, riverside promenade, narrow lanes and three surviving medieval town gates make it one of the most photographed villages on the Moselle, and it sits at the heart of the Riesling wine region. As of 2026 the castle and visitor attractions run on a main season roughly mid-March to early November and can get very busy in summer with river-cruise passengers and day-trippers. It is a compact, walkable place ideal for a half-day to a full day combining the old town and the castle.
Reichsburg (Imperial Castle) on the hilltop: the largest castle on the Moselle, first documented around 1130, destroyed by French troops in 1689 and rebuilt in neo-Gothic style from 1868
The Marktplatz (market square) with its slate-roofed half-timbered houses, the old town hall of 1739, and the St. Martin fountain
The Moselle riverside promenade, the classic viewpoint taking in the river, the castle and the terraced vineyards together
The Sesselbahn single-seat chairlift from the Endert valley up to the Pinnerkreuz viewpoint (about 255 m) for sweeping views over the town and the Moselle bend
The historic town gates (Enderttor, Balduinstor, Martinstor) and small old-town curiosities such as the historic mustard mill (Senfmühle)
Good to know
SeasonThe Reichsburg runs its main season 14 March–1 November 2026, and the chairlift generally operates only from roughly April to early November. Winter castle hours are shorter and the chairlift is usually closed, so always check the current dates before you go.
RulesThe castle interior can only be seen on a guided tour—no self-guided entry. English tours run roughly hourly depending on demand, so check the next English tour time on arrival; booking ahead is wise on peak-season weekends and during Christmas events.
SafetyThe path up to the castle and the old-town cobblestones are steep and slippery when wet, so wear sturdy walking shoes. The Moselle can occasionally flood, so take care in low-lying riverside areas during heavy-rain warnings.
MannersIn this small town many shops and eateries take cash only, so carry euros. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up by about 5–10% is customary, and keep conversation quiet and relaxed in the wine taverns.
RulesIn Germany most shops close on Sundays and public holidays (restaurants and cafés stay open), and some restaurants pause for an afternoon break on weekdays. Plan your meal and shopping times accordingly.
CautionCrime is generally low, but watch for pickpockets in crowded spots such as the market square and cruise landing in peak summer. Be alert to inflated taxi fares or parking charges and to ATM skimming, and keep valuables in front of you.
Practical info
Cochem's station (Cochem/Mosel) on the Koblenz–Trier Moselle rail line sits close to the old town, about 40 minutes from Koblenz by regional or Intercity train, with the riverside centre an easy walk from the platform. The Reichsburg is guided-tour only, roughly 09:30–17:00 in the main season (last admission 17:00), and the chairlift is seasonal—confirm exact opening hours, tour times and ticket prices on the official websites before visiting.
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