At a glance
- A Moselle River cruise is absolutely worth it for lovers of wine, walking and whimsical towns packed with history
- Prices vary widely depending on the cruise line – some offer excellent value, especially if you like the idea of seeing lots of places while only unpacking once
- Many river cruises to the Moselle also include the Rhine. If it’s the Moselle part that interests you most, look for itineraries with time in Trier, Cochem and Bernkastel-Kues
Three reasons a Moselle River cruise is worth it
1. It’s the stuff of storybooks
Let’s get real, the Moselle is one of Europe’s prettiest rivers, and that’s really saying something. Winding its way through France, Luxembourg and Germany, the Moselle is flanked by steeply sloped vineyards, half-timbered houses and castles dramatically surveying the scene.
Some towns, like Traben-Trarbach, look like they outlawed new buildings after 1800, and that’s a compliment. These places are like stepping back in time, right into a fairytale.
Exploring the region from the river is the best way to do it because you’ll have access to sites often missed by coach tours, such as the Roman ruins of Trier and the medieval squares of Bernkastel.
2. The wine is outstanding
If you like wine, specifically bright, zesty German Rieslings, you’ll be in your element here. Most Moselle itineraries build in tastings at local wineries, many of which are family-run and have been in the ownership of the same family for hundreds of years.
The wineries and vineyards you’ll have the opportunity to explore aren’t soulless industrial setups; we’re talking small-scale, personal vineyards, with locally-labelled bottles that you’ll struggle to find at home.
Some lines include food and wine excursions, such as guided visits to local markets where you can try flammkuchen (Germany’s answer to pizza), sausages (this is Germany after all) and delicious apple cake.
3. It’s a slow, scenic way to explore
Life has sped up too much these days. In a world where information is now delivered in nanoseconds and every deadline is ‘yesterday’, the Moselle presents an opportunity to return to a comforting, natural pace.
This is a region designed for lingering, and a small-ship river cruise is the best way to do it because you arrive right in the heart of it. And the peaceful charm of the Moselle continues, of course, when you’re sailing. Some of the river’s best stretches – between Cochem and Trier, in particular – are best seen from the water.
If your idea of a dream holiday is scenic strolling rather than an against-the-clock monument marathon, then the Moselle hits the mark.
Three reasons it might not be worth it for you
1. It’s not the cheapest way to travel
As with any river cruise, the Moselle doesn’t come cheap. You can expect to pay anywhere from £1,500 to £3,000 per person for a week here, depending on the line. For the fancier suites on the fanciest lines, you’ll be paying a lot more still.
That said, remember that, unlike other styles of holiday, a river cruise is typically all-inclusive, so while the upfront prices might make you think twice, river cruises do offer great value for money, all things considered.
If you’re on a tight budget and really want to see the Moselle, then Germany’s regional trains are really good and can get you around for a lower cost. It’s not luxurious, and you’ll have to work out your own itinerary, but it’s a good alternative for sampling the Moselle on a budget.
2. Winter can be quiet
Outside the main cruising season from April to October, don’t be surprised to find vineyards, museums and even some cafés closed for winter.
The Moselle is particularly quiet in late winter, once festive celebrations have ended. Earlier in the season, you will still find Christmas markets in towns like Trier and Cochem. They may be smaller than the grand markets along the Rhine or Danube, but they have plenty of charm.
Overall, you’re unlikely to find cruises dedicated solely to the Moselle in winter, though some multi-river Christmas market itineraries include it. In late winter, you'll likely want to steer clear entirely and wait for spring.
3. It’s not for adrenaline junkies
There’s plenty to do on a Moselle River cruise – hiking, cycling, tastings, castle visits – but don’t expect a go-go-go itinerary or anything by way of high-octane nightlife.
These trips are designed for laid-back, slow and gentle enjoyment. There’s nothing frantic about a Moselle cruise. You’ll have quiet evenings, hours of relaxing scenic sailing, and plenty of time to dive into a good book with the best views for company.
If you want clubs, casinos and pool parties, this one’s probably not for you.
What else to know before booking your Moselle cruise
Many river cruises combine the Moselle with the Rhine, giving you the chance to visit bigger-city spots like Cologne, Rüdesheim or even Basel. You’ll often cruise along the Rhine Gorge, known for its dramatic cliffs and castles, before slipping into the more relaxed Moselle. Check out our Rhine River guide here for more on these itineraries.
Plus, discover our other guides to the Moselle:
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