the wonders of cruising through the picturesque Moselle Valley

While many dream of luxurious cruises across vast oceans, the mere thought of motion sickness can often steer us away. However, consider the charm of a river cruise—a dream vacation brimming with romance. With endless options, it’s an idyllic way to explore enchanting destinations without the worries of sea-induced unease.

mosel river

What to expect

Lush vineyards carpet the steep slopes of the valley, creating a patchwork of vibrant greens that stretch as far as the eye can see. Towering medieval castles perch atop rugged cliffs, casting their ancient shadows upon the tranquil waters below.  A beautiful sight.

Relaxed Pace

Unlike ocean cruises, river cruises tend to have a more relaxed pace, with shorter distances between ports of call. This allows you to truly savor each destination and enjoy leisurely days spent cruising along the tranquil waters of the Moselle, soaking in the scenery and atmosphere.

moselle river route

What is the Moselle Valley famous for?

The Moselle Valley is famous for its postcard-worthy scenery, attracting visitors from around the globe to marvel at its beauty. The combination of rolling hills, terraced vineyards, and historic landmarks creates a truly unforgettable landscape.

The perfect Accommodation

River cruise ships are designed to provide comfort and luxury to passengers. You can expect well-appointed cabins with modern amenities, spacious lounges for relaxation, and panoramic sundecks where you can soak in the beauty of the Moselle Valley as you cruise.

Where to stay in Cochem Germany Hotel Cochemer Jung

River cruises on the Moselle River can be an excellent option for elderly travelers

River cruise ships typically offer comfortable accommodations with modern amenities, making it easy for elderly travelers to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. Cabins are equipped with conveniences such as ensuite bathrooms, cozy beds, and panoramic windows to enjoy the views.

River cruises offer opportunities for travelers to socialize and connect with fellow passengers. Whether it’s sharing stories over a meal, participating in onboard activities, or simply enjoying the camaraderie of like-minded travelers, cruising fosters a sense of community and friendship among passengers of all ages.

Scenic Views from the Ship:

The gentle pace of a river cruise allows elderly travelers to enjoy stunning views of the Moselle Valley without the need for strenuous activities. They can relax on the sun deck or in the comfort of the ship’s lounges while taking in the picturesque landscapes passing by.

Moselle Valley river Cruise in Europe
See the Moselle Valley go on a river cruise why it is ideal for the elderly traveler

Food and Drink

World Class Wines

No visit to the Moselle Valley would be complete without indulging in its world-renowned wines. Home to some of the finest Rieslings in the world, the region’s steep vineyards produce wines of exceptional quality and complexity.

Regional Cuisine

River cruise ships often showcase the culinary specialties of the destinations visited along the Moselle River. You’ll have the opportunity to savor traditional dishes from Germany, France, and Luxembourg, as well as locally sourced ingredients such as fresh fish, artisanal cheeses, and seasonal produce.

Charming villages

Your journey will take you through a series of charming villages that seem straight out of a fairy tale. From the quaint half-timbered houses of Bernkastel-Kues to the cobblestone streets of Cochem, each town along the Moselle exudes its own unique charm and character. You’ll be able to take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleyways, pausing to admire the ornate churches, cozy wine taverns, and bustling market squares that define life in these idyllic communities.

The Moselle runs through and along the borders of, the three countries.

The Moselle Valley (In French :  Moselle / In German: Moseltal) is a region in the North-East of France, South-West Germany, and Eastern Luxembourg.  

The Cities you will find along the river are:  Cochem / Trier / Bernkastel-Kues / Koblenz / Metz / Toul / Pont – a-Mousson / Thionville / Wasserbillig / Remich / Epinal / Schengen / Grevenmacher

Beautiful bridges along the river (some of which are very impressive) are:  Moselle Viaducht / Roman Bridge / Baldwin Bridge / Kurt Schumacher / Pont des Morts / Moselbrücke / Gülser Eisenbahnbrücke / Moselbrücke Ehrang / Moselbrücke Löf-Alken / Viaduc de Vandières (Viaduc de la Moselle) / Moseleisenbahnbrücke in Koblenz (Moseleisenbahnbrücke)

 

Shore Excursions

One of the highlights of a river cruise on the Moselle is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the region. Shore excursions are often included in your cruise itinerary, allowing you to explore charming villages, visit historical landmarks, and sample local cuisine and wines along the way.

Even if you don’t do the river cruise, and you decide to tour the Moselle Valley on your own, do stop at the following two villages:

moselle river

Beilstein

The Moselle region is a famous wine region and whenever you have the opportunity to tour this valley along the river you just have to stop at Beilstein.  This tiny cobblestone village with almost no shops are nicknamed the “Sleeping Beauty of the Mosel” and she is beautiful.  More and more travelers are discovering this beautiful little town.  It is worth a nice stop over for a night or two.

Where to stay when you visit Beilstein

Cochem

Also read about Cochem

As part of your tour along the Moselle River, a stop at Cochem is inevitable. A beautiful village and definitely worth a stop.

When is the best time to go?

Crowds and Prices: The peak tourist season in the Moselle Valley coincides with the summer months (July and August), when the weather is warmest and many travelers visit the region for sightseeing and outdoor activities. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October), when the weather is still pleasant but tourist numbers are lower.

When is the best time to book your cruise?

When should I book?


Numerous cruise lines provide discounts for reservations made several months or even a year ahead, leading to substantial savings. As a rule of thumb, it’s advisable to secure your river cruise at least six months before your intended travel dates, especially if you plan to journey during peak seasons or high-demand periods.

The beauty of going on a cruise on the river:

A few things you need to know:

First of all the cruises are tailor-made for anyone attending between the age of 1 and 99.  Some of the cruises do have an age guideline of 8 or 12 years of age and older, but you can easily check online.

Normally you would also have an option of selecting the group size in which you would feel more comfortable.  For Example a group of 20 people max or a group of more than 50 etc.  It is totally your choice.

There are options to go on “fully guided” or “partially guided” tours and then there are more options…

  • Personalized Service: River cruise ships typically have a lower passenger capacity compared to ocean liners, which means you can expect personalized service from the attentive crew members. From the moment you step on board, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and attentive care to ensure a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience.
  • Onboard Entertainment and Activities: While on board, you’ll have access to a range of entertainment options and activities to keep you engaged and entertained. From informative lectures and cooking demonstrations to live music performances and themed dinners, there’s always something happening on a river cruise ship.
  • Wine Tastings: The Moselle Valley is renowned for its world-class wines, particularly Rieslings. Many river cruise itineraries include visits to local wineries where you can indulge in wine tastings, learn about the winemaking process from knowledgeable vintners, and perhaps even bring home a few bottles of your favorite varietals.

Overall, a river cruise on the Moselle offers a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion, making it an ideal way to discover the beauty and charm of this enchanting region.