Top 20 Castles around Cochem
Best castles around Cochem are situated along the Moselle River, offering a blend of historical significance and scenic beauty. The region is characterized by its winding river, steep vineyards, and prominent mountain cones, providing natural settings for ancient fortresses. Cochem itself is dominated by a historically rich fortress, serving as a defining landmark. This area provides opportunities to explore medieval architecture and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Best castles around Cochem
- The most popular castles is View of Reichsburg Cochem and the town of Cochem, a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Imperial Castle Cochem, a landmark standing 154 meters above sea level. This Neo-Gothic castle, rebuilt in the 19th century, is a protected cultural monument.
- Another must-see spot is Metternich Castle Ruins, a castle ruin located on a spur 150 meters above sea level near Beilstein. Visitors can explore the partially renovated ruins and enjoy views of the Moselle valley.
- Visitors also love View of Beilstein and Metternich Castle, a viewpoint offering a perspective of the historic village of Beilstein and its castle ruins. This location provides a glimpse into the medieval townscape and the surrounding river landscape.
- Cochem is known for its imperial castles, castle ruins, and reconstructed fortresses. The region offers a variety of castles to see and explore, from well-preserved landmarks to historic ruins.
- The castles around Cochem are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 4600 upvotes and over 800 photos shared across 9 highlights.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
View of Reichsburg Cochem and the town of Cochem
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The plant, which served as a customs castle in the Middle Ages, was probably built around 1100 or in the first half of the 12th century, according to the results of current castle research. After being destroyed in the 17th century, it was rebuilt by the Berlin merchant and later Secretary of Commerce Louis Fréderic Jacques Ravené in the years 1868-77, according to the taste of the castle romance. Burg Cochem is thus a good example of a building designed in neo-Gothic style during the time of historicism. According to the monument protection law of Rhineland-Palatinate, it is a protected cultural monument and registered in the state's monument list. In addition, the plant is a protected cultural property according to the Hague Convention and marked with the blue-white protection mark.
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Beilstein
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Cochem Old Town
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View of the Moselle and Cochem from Reichsburg Castle
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Cochem Imperial Castle
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It is generally assumed that Cochem Castle was built around 1030 under Count Palatine Ezzo, son and successor of Count Palatine Hermann Pusillius.
The castle was first mentioned in documents in 1051, when Richeza, eldest daughter of Count Palatine Ezzo and former Queen of Poland, transferred the castle to her nephew, Count Palatine Henry I, that year.
Even after the Ezzones lost the title of Count Palatine, Cochem remained connected to the Count Palatine.
King Conrad III put an end to a later dispute over the title of Count Palatine in 1151 by occupying Cochem Castle with castle men and finally taking it under his control as a settled imperial fiefdom.
This meant that Cochem Castle became an imperial castle during the Staufer period.
Now imperial ministerials - with the title of burgrave - were appointed to manage the castle and imperial property.
When troops of the French King Louis
After the entire city was occupied by French troops in March 1689, the castle was set on fire and blown up in 1688.
That year, almost the entire city of Cochem fell victim to the destruction of the French troops.
A ruin until 1868, the castle was bought by the merchant Louis Ravené for 300 gold marks - he had it rebuilt (according to his ideas).
The restored castle became the property of the German Reich through sale in 1942 and has been owned by the city of Cochem since 1978.
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Tips from the Community
Beilstein "The Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle" One of the most beautiful towns on the Moselle, also known as the Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle. We Beilsteiners always strive to treat our guests warmly and kindly and to welcome them as friends when they return to visit us again and again, often for decades. Text / Source: Beilstein Mosel, Bachstr. 47, 56814 Beilstein https://beilstein-mosel.de/
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Beautiful view of the valley
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No matter which side you approach Cochem from, the great cityscape is simply fascinating.
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Great view of the castle and Cochem from the bike path. For one of the most beautiful places, but totally overrun by river cruise ships...
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A really beautiful castle. The way up isn't too strenuous either.
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On land or on water, simply sensational!
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Beautiful view of the Moselle, no matter from the castle, the promenade or the apartment directly on the promenade
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Very historic castle and a great view over the city. The arduous ascent is definitely worth it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most prominent castles and ruins to visit around Cochem?
The most prominent castle is Reichsburg Cochem, also known as Cochem Castle, which stands majestically above the town and Moselle River. You can also explore the partially renovated Metternich Castle Ruins near Beilstein, offering views of the Moselle valley.
What makes Reichsburg Cochem a unique historical site?
Reichsburg Cochem, originally built around 1100, served as an Imperial residence and customs castle. After its destruction in 1689, it was romantically rebuilt in the Neo-Gothic style in the 19th century, making it a striking example of historicism. Its elevated position offers panoramic views of the town and river, and it's a protected cultural monument.
Are there any other significant castles near Cochem besides Reichsburg Cochem?
While Reichsburg Cochem is the main attraction in the immediate area, travelers interested in authentically preserved medieval architecture might consider Burg Eltz. It's located about 30-40 minutes from Cochem by car and is known for never having been destroyed or significantly rebuilt.
What kind of tours and activities are available at Reichsburg Cochem?
Reichsburg Cochem offers various guided tours, including landscape garden tours, ghost tours, and night watchman tours. You can also experience falconry performances and 'The Knights' Meal,' a medieval evening program with historical cuisine and entertainment. During Advent, the castle hosts 'Cochem Castle Christmas' with live costumed actors.
What are the best viewpoints to see the castles and the Moselle valley?
For stunning views, visit View of Reichsburg Cochem and the town of Cochem, which offers panoramic vistas of the Imperial Castle and the surrounding area. Another excellent spot is View of Beilstein and Metternich Castle, providing a perspective of the historic village and its castle ruins.
Are there family-friendly activities or castles around Cochem?
Yes, the region is family-friendly. Reichsburg Cochem offers engaging tours and events like falconry performances that can be enjoyed by all ages. The walk up to the castle is also considered an enjoyable experience. The village of Beilstein, with its historic charm and castle ruins, is also a pleasant family destination.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles around Cochem?
The area around Cochem offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy options like the 'Cochem Imperial Castle – View of Cochem Imperial Castle loop' (5.38 km), which you can explore further in the Easy hikes around Cochem guide. There are also road cycling and mountain biking routes available, such as those in the Road Cycling Routes around Cochem and MTB Trails around Cochem guides.
Are there easy walks or beginner hiking trails near Cochem castles?
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails. For instance, the 'Cochem Imperial Castle – View of Cochem Imperial Castle loop' is an easy 5.38 km hike. Other easy options include the 'Hiking loop from Cochem-Zell' (5.11 km) and the 'Hotel Winneburg parking – Winneburg Castle Ruins loop' (4.98 km). You can find more details in the Easy hikes around Cochem guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles and region around Cochem?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views from the castles, especially from Reichsburg Cochem, overlooking the Moselle and the town. The romantic atmosphere of the castles, the well-preserved historic sites like Beilstein, and the charm of the Moselle valley are also highly appreciated.
Is it possible to take photos inside Reichsburg Cochem?
Unusually for German castles, visitors are often allowed to take photos inside Reichsburg Cochem during tours, allowing you to capture the impressive interiors such as the Knight's Hall, Dining Hall, and Trophy Room.
How accessible is Reichsburg Cochem from the town?
The walk up to Reichsburg Cochem from the town takes about 20 minutes and is considered an enjoyable experience. The castle's gardens are freely accessible, offering a pleasant stroll before or after your tour.
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