Germany’s Moselle River Valley is home to the Moselle Cycle Path, one of the world’s most scenic bike paths. Stretching more than 300 kilometers (about 190 miles), this relatively flat, off-street route follows the river from Metz, France to Koblenz, where the Moselle River meets the Rhine.
On this stunning cycle path, you’ll pedal along with the Moselle on one side as it curves through the valley; on the other, terraced vineyards climb steep hillsides. Along the way, you pass through quiet villages and small towns where half-timbered houses line cobblestone streets—places that feel far removed from the main tourist trail.
The section between Trier—Germany’s oldest city—and Koblenz is widely considered the most beautiful, and after riding it myself, I can see why. With vineyards, castles, and storybook towns unfolding around every bend, it’s a ride that combines cultural history with some of the most striking landscapes in Europe.
I did my tour with a company called Better by Mosel, but honestly, I can’t recommend them. The bike path itself is incredibly easy to follow, and GPX tracks are freely available online if you want them. Better by Mosel, however, gave us outdated spiral-bound paper books for navigation—something I never once used. They didn’t bother to update our routes when construction forced cyclists to detour on to busy highways. The hotels they booked were low quality, the bikes weren’t well-maintained, and they lacked even basic equipment like water bottle cages.
I priced out what it would have cost to book everything myself, and I realized I would have saved hundreds of Euros while also staying in far nicer accommodations. That’s why I decided to share my own itinerary here—so that if you want to cycle the Moselle Valley on your own, you can do it cheaper, better, and without depending on a disappointing tour company.
Here’s the best 5-day Moselle River Valley Itinerary for cyclists.
Logistics
Bike Rentals:
Fahrradstation, located right next to the main train station in Trier, rents both ebikes and standard bikes for multi-day trips. For a flat rate, the company will pick up your rental bike from your accommodation on the last day of your trip, so you don’t have to worry about bringing it back to Trier.
Prices start at 15 Euros per day for a city/touring bike.
Luggage Transport:
Cycle unencumbered each day by booking a luggage transport service. Gepacktransfer Mosel will pick up your bags each morning from your hotel and drop them off at your next night’s accommodation. Prices start at 11 Euros per person, per stage.
Directions
Better by Mosel used GPS tracks from Esterbauer, you can find them here. We didn’t find these tracks especially helpful—you’d honestly do just as well using Google Maps cycling directions.
Itinerary
Day 1: Trier
Often called “Germany’s oldest city,” Trier was founded over 2,000 years ago as Augusta Treverorum and is still known today as the “Rome of the Moselle.” With around 100,000 residents, it’s the fourth largest city in Rhineland-Palatinate, a lively university town, and the cultural hub of the surrounding region.
The impressive Roman monuments of Trier—such as the amphitheater, Barbarathermen, Kaiserthermen, Konstantinbasilika, Porta Nigra, the Roman Bridge, Igeler Säule, Trier Cathedral, and Liebfrauenkirche—were collectively named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. But beyond these landmarks, the city also boasts hidden gems like the Three Queens’ House, the Franconian Tower, the Steipe, the Red House, the Jerusalem Tower, and the Karl Marx House. Just outside the city, the elegant Monaise Castle near Zewen is also worth a visit.
What to do in Trier at Night
For a memorable evening, stroll along the Moselle promenade in the Zurlauben district. This former fishermen’s quarter, located by the Kaiser Wilhelm Bridge, is lined with cozy inns, restaurants, and beer gardens where you can enjoy authentic Moselle charm. Another must-see is the Karl Marx House on Brückenstraße, birthplace of the famous philosopher and social critic. Keep an eye out for the whimsical pedestrian crossing lights around the city that feature an animated cartoon of Marx.
Where to Stay: Better by Mosel put us in Porta Nigra Victus ($113/night), which had a nice location near the main square but was somewhat shabby inside. Instead, I recommend Mea Hotel Trier ($99/night) which has an equally good location, but more modern conveniences.
Day 2: Trier to Piesport (47km / 29 miles)
This route follows the Historical Cycle Path from Trier to Leiwen, passing through orchards, vineyards, forests, and charming wine villages. The first section runs near the main road, but from Longuich onward, the trail follows a former Moselle Valley Railway line converted into a peaceful bike path.
Highlights Along the Way:
- Schweich: A lively town with Celtic and Roman roots, home to the historic ferry tower at the port.
- Longuich: Discover the Roman Villa Urbana and the Old Castle.
- Riol: Take a break at the TRIOLAGO leisure lake.
- Mehring: Visit Villa Rustica, a 2nd-century Roman country estate.
- Detzem: Marvel at the Moselle island and the historic ferry towers of Trittenheim.
- Leiwen: Explore medieval architecture like the Gothic Zehnthof and the rococo-style St. Stephen’s Church.
- Trittenheim: Famous for its vineyards, including the renowned “Apotheke” and “Altärchen.”
- Neumagen-Dhron: Germany’s oldest wine village, with a replica of a Roman wine ship.
- Piesport: Home to one of the largest Roman wine presses north of the Alps, where you’ll end the day.
Where to Stay: Hotel Moselloreley: ($122 night). Hotel Moselloreley is a charming hotel located right on the river. Opt for a river view room.
Day 3: Piesport to Traben-Trarbach (45 km / 30 miles)
Begin along the right bank of the Moselle, heading past Wintrich with its monumental “Cross of Light,” then through vineyards to Brauneberg. Don’t miss the Simultankirche with its unique onion dome and the long avenue of walnut trees.
Continue toward Bernkastel-Kues, a jewel of half-timbered architecture with a romantic market square and centuries of history. The Spitzhäuschen from 1416, the ornate town hall from 1608, and the church tower of St. Michael are among the highlights.
Ideas for Bernkastel-Kues
- Visit the Moselle Wine Museum and vinotheque to discover 2,000 years of winemaking history.
- Stop at Eiscafé Venezia for the best ice cream in the Middle Moselle. It’s a good place to try Spaghettieis, a German treat made of ice cream shaped to look like pasta. Don’t miss the wine flavored sorbets and ice creams here, which are surprisingly refreshing!
- Enjoy the views from Landshut Castle, accessible on foot or via the Burg Landshut Express.
- Sample gourmet delights at the Wajos factory.
- Relive your childhood at Bonbon Willi’s traditional candy shop.
- Take a Moselle river cruise or ride the “little train” for a guided city tour.
After Bernkastel-Kues, the path continues through wine villages such as Graach, Wehlen (with its old sundial), and Zeltingen-Rachtig, home to the Deutschherrenhaus and a charming St. Mark’s Square.
Cross the bridge to see Machern Monastery, now housing museums, a brewery, and a wine bar. Further along, pass Ürzig with its historic sundial and terraced herb garden, Kinheim with its medieval remains, and finally reach Kröv, famous for the “Kröver Nacktarsch” wine.
Your day concludes in Traben-Trarbach, an Art Nouveau treasure. Once Europe’s second-largest wine trading hub after Bordeaux, the city flourished at the turn of the 20th century, leaving behind stunning Belle Époque architecture.
Where to Stay: We stayed in Hotel Golden Traube ($140/night) which was far from most restaurants and things to do. The hotel was also packed with group tours, which made breakfast and checking in/checking out time-consuming.
Instead, I recommend: Moseltraum mit Sonnnenterrasse ($144/night) or Sonnenterasse an der Mosel ($144 per night)
Day 4 Traben-Trarbach to Cochem (54 km / 33.5 miles)
For a quieter start to the day, follow the left bank of the Moselle, away from busy roads. The path takes you past the old monastery courtyard, through the fishing hamlet of Litzig, and on toward Kövenig. From here, continue to the Enkirch barrage and roll into the village of Reil.
Make a stop at the private wine museum of Winery Dr. Schnabel (Dorfstraße 19). In a laid-back atmosphere, you’ll see old tools used by winemakers and coopers, learn about the craft, and enjoy a look at the lovely garden. Don’t miss the traditional fountain game, and of course, the wines are available to taste.
Stay on the riverbank cycle route toward the Zeller Land adventure region. Soon you’ll reach Zell, one of the most famous wine towns on the Moselle, thanks to the renowned “Zeller Schwarze Katz” (Black Cat wine). Zell’s lively promenade, historic half-timbered houses, and bustling wine taverns make it a delightful place for a break.
Continue downstream and pass through Briedel, a charming wine village, before heading toward Pünderich. Here, you’ll find one of the longest surviving half-timbered structures on the Moselle, the Pünderich ferry house. From the cycle path, you’ll also see the impressive viaduct of the former Moselle railway line.
Next, ride on to Bullay, where the double-deck bridge over the Moselle is a striking sight—it’s the only bridge of its kind in Europe that carries both road traffic and trains.
Cross the bridge to reach Alf, then continue to St. Aldegund, a village with a rich Roman Catholic tradition and several historic chapels. The path then brings you to Ediger-Eller, a village full of medieval character, half-timbered houses, and winding alleys. Don’t miss the Peterskapelle, a jewel of Gothic architecture.
From here, the trail winds through vineyards with stunning views until you reach Bremm. This is where you’ll encounter the famous Calmont vineyard, the steepest vineyard in all of Europe, climbing at gradients up to 68%. It’s an unforgettable sight and a highlight of the day. Keep an eye out for the wine coasters, which farmers use to navigate the steep hills.
Continue on to Neef, where the ruins of St. Matthew’s Chapel add to the scenic charm, and then follow the Moselle through Senheim and Mesenich, two tranquil villages nestled among vineyards and hills.
The final stretch of today’s ride leads you to the enchanting town of Cochem. With its striking Reichsburg Castle perched high above the river, Cochem is one of the most photographed towns on the Moselle. Stroll the old town’s cobblestone streets, admire the half-timbered squares, and enjoy the lively atmosphere along the riverbank.
Cochem also offers plenty of culinary treats—stop by a traditional wine tavern for a glass of Riesling or sample hearty local dishes. As the day winds down, the castle lit against the evening sky makes for a magical finale to your journey.
We stumbled across a really fun wine festival by the river here—if you’re visiting in the summer months, keep an eye out for festivals! Rooftop bars and party boats with German bands are also popular here.
Before leaving, take the chairlift (the Cochemer Sesselbahn) up the mountain for stunning views of the valley.
Where to Stay: We stayed at Weinhaus Grafen ($187/night), which had a great location but very tiny rooms and a bathroom that smelled awful. Instead, opt for Hotel am Hafen, located on the river with spacious rooms and air conditioning.
Day 5 Cochem to Koblenz (49 km / 30 miles)
Today’s stage takes you from Cochem further along the Moselle, past castles, romantic villages, and endless vineyards. Leaving Cochem, the path hugs the river as you cycle past quaint wine towns such as Klotten and Pommern. Both villages are rich in viticulture and dotted with half-timbered houses that seem untouched by time.
Further along, you’ll reach Treis-Karden, a town shaped by centuries of Roman and medieval history. The twin-towered St. Castor’s Basilica dominates the skyline, while narrow lanes invite you to wander.
Continue downstream to Moselkern, gateway to the legendary Eltz Castle, nestled deep in a forested valley. This fairytale fortress, never destroyed in war, is one of Germany’s most iconic castles and makes for a truly unforgettable side trip.
Back on the Moselle, cycle through Kobern-Gondorf, a town that pairs romantic ruins with charming wine culture. From here, the river bends carry you steadily toward the final highlight of your journey.
Your ride ends in Koblenz, dramatically set at the confluence of the Moselle and Rhine. At the famous Deutsches Eck (German Corner), the two great rivers meet beneath the equestrian statue of Emperor Wilhelm I. Stroll through the historic old town, lined with squares, fountains, and cozy cafés, or ride the cable car up to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for sweeping views over the Rhine and Moselle valleys.
My trip coincided with a summer festival, where historic squares were transformed into stages featuring live bands. If you’re lucky, your trip will line up with one of Koblenz’s many festivals.
Make a reservation for an outdoor table at Adaccio, one of Koblenz’s best restaurants, where you can people-watch and toast the end of your cycling journey.
Where to Stay: City Hotel Kurfurst Balduin—this was the best hotel we stayed at on the trip, with a great location and modern rooms.