7 romantic towns in and around Rhineland in Germany

A weekend getaway in Germany

Why is Germany one of our preferred destinations for short trips? Well this question is easy to answer. Germany is in the first place very easily accessible by car from Belgium. You don’t have to drive a long way to experience the real and authentic Germany.

Moreover, Germany is a very varied country that has a lot to offer from beautiful, vast nature reserves, historical fairytale castles and authentic villages to gigantic, vibrant cities such as Berlin. Not to mention the delicious regional wines!

I’m especially a big fan of the small picturesque villages with the authentic half-timbered houses. Wandering through little streets and alleys, exploring the local shops and tasting the regional cuisine are my all-time favorite activities during a weekend away.

In past few years we’ve been able to visit quite a few villages and I thought it would be interesting to share the 7 most romantic towns in and around the Rhineland of Germany.

Location

This map shows all 7 romantic towns (red) that are covered in this blog post. I’ll start with the destination closest to Belgium and end at the village furthest away from Belgium.

The last villages are located just outside the official borders of Rhineland, but are all beautiful destinations to combine within a trip to the West of Germany.

A great way to visit all these village inclusive other amazing German towns is through a road trip from Munchen to Amsterdam.

7 romantic towns in and around Rhineland in Germany

1. Monschau

A few years ago I visited the picturesque town of Monschau. It was during a hiking trip with my parents in the Eifel nature reserve. I remember the village was covered in snow and it was so enchanting. We didn’t really have the chance to fully explore Monschau at the time.

A year later Jan and I decided to visit Monschau again, but this time on a beautiful late summer day. We spent a full day exploring everything this fairy-tale town had to offer. And Monschau certainly didn’t disappoint us. The setting of the village with its half-timbered houses, canals, authentic bridges, cozy terraces and panoramic views from the neighboring hills definitely contributed to the romantic vibe.

This destination is therefore definitely recommended for a romantic getaway. If you want to know more about Monschau, be sure to read my blog post about the perfect day trip to Monschau.

If you want to spend more time in Monschau, then these are my favorite places to stay Haus Stehlings, HIER & JETZT in Monschau City, Hotel Lindenhof and Horchem Hotel-Restaurant-Café-Bar.

2. Bernkastel Keus

During one of our first trips as a couple, way before the instagram and blog period, Jan and I traveled to Trier. This was my first introduction to the German countryside. Our weekend in Trier was not that great. Of course there are many great things to do in Trier, but the weather and the accommodation disappointed us a bit. I had already written off Germany in my mind. But a trip to Bernkastel Keus changed my opinion.

This small, charming village along the Moselle in the midst of the vineyards, was able to amaze me and turn my disappointment in Germany around. This was also the place where my love for traditional German towns with authentic half-timbered houses, cobblestone alleys and historical castles began.

The market square of Bernkastel Keus with the medieval houses is one of the most beautiful and therefore one of the most famous along the Moselle. What means that it can get pretty busy there.

Besides admiring the beautiful town market and soak up the local atmosphere in the surrounding narrow streets, we also hiked along the steep wine flanks to Burg Landshut.

This medieval castle is located at the top of the hill and has been transformed into a German wine bar and restaurant. Enjoying a dazzling view over Bernkastel and the river has never been so pleasant with a glass of Moselle wine. 

If you’re looking for a cosy stay in Bernkastel Kues, then I would recommend Burgblickhotel, Märchenhotel or Hotel Doctor Weinstube.

3. Cochem

Cochem is a well-known and slightly larger, but no less romantic, town on the Moselle. This city is mainly known for its beautiful Castle named Reichsburg that proudly stands over the city. This castle was number one on our to do list when we visited Cochem.

A walk to the top along the narrow, cobbled streets with a view over the wine flanks made us excited. When we arrived at the entrance of the castle we heard that we could only enter the castle with a guided group tour.  This was a bit disappointing for us. The beautifully preserved interior and the spectacular view of a stunning river landscape from the gardens of the castle transformed our disappointment into astonishment. A visit to the castle in group may not be the most romantic activity, but I certainly thought it was worth it.

After our visit, we walked down to the centre of the historical city where we found, besides the beautifully, traditional decorated houses, many local beer- and wine bars. The perfect way to end our day in Cochem!

Looking for an amazing stay in Cochem? Be sure to check out Boutique-Hotel Lohspeicher, Hotel Villa Vie Cochem and Hotel Ravene.

4. Bacharach

From the picturesque villages on the Moselle we went further inland.  We passed many green hills and vineyards till we reached the small and colorful town of Bacharach. This village was once one of Victor Hugo’s favorite destinations. And I can fully understand why.

Bacharach isn’t that touristy at all, at least not when we were there. It was so peaceful to stroll through the old town. The authentic half-timbered houses were well kept and decorated with colorful flowers, which led to beautiful images.

From the medieval castle we had a dazzling view of the Rhine landscape. We also saw the ruins of the ancient city wall.

In short, Bacharach is a wonderful place to enjoy the local delights in an enchanting setting. When you’re in Bacharach, don’t forget to taste the famous Riesling wine.

Want to stay a bit longer? In Altkölnischer Hof,  Hotel am Markt, Bacharacher Hof and Hotel zur Post you can enjoy an authentic German stay.

5. Rhüdesheim am Rhein

Not so long ago, we unexpectedly explored Germany a bit more. This is how we ended up in Rhüdesheim am Rhein. A small picturesque village along the Rhine with an amazing view over extensive wine flanks. Unknown to us, but clearly not to everyone.

Rhüdesheim am Rhein attracts many tourists every year. It’s a place where all Rhine cruise ships pass. It goes without saying that it can get crowded over here especially during high season.

Despite the many tourists, I enjoyed the pleasant bustle during our visit. I especially loved the well-known street Drosselgasse with its many wine bars and local shops.

You definitely shouldn’t come here for the tranquility, but for the great location along the Rhine and the wonderfully vibrant atmosphere.

Best places to stay in Rhüdesheim am Rhein are Hotel Höhn, Hotel Rüdesheimer Hof and Hotel Felsenkeller.

6. Michelstadt

In Michelstadt we experienced the opposite of in Rhüdesheim am Rein. This small city is gorgeous and still completely undiscovered. In the middle of the day we practically had the city to ourselves. We made great use of it and discovered all cobblestone streets and alleys with their authentic half-timbered houses, to the fullest.

In the maze of streets we came across a hidden, super cozy bar with terrace “The Elephant House”. This place is perfect for one or even more romantic moments.

One of the most beautiful places in Michelstadt is definitely the enchanting market square located around the fountain overlooking the stunning town hall.

Michelstadt is definitely the place to be if you like to avoid too touristy places and want to enjoy a little peace and quiet in an authentic and picturesque setting.

Want to stay in Michelstadt for a couple of day, then I would recommend staying in Hotel-Restaurant Drei Hasen.

7. Miltenberg

As icing on the cake we visited one of the most beautiful villages in Bavaria. The town is called Miltenberg and is situated along the Main. Since Bavaria is still relatively unknown to me, I don’t have other Bavarian towns to compare with. But if they are somewhat like Miltenberg, I’ll definitely want to visit them.

The old city centre was jaw dropping. It was a feast for the eyes to wander through the main street with it’s beautiful authentic half-timbered houses on both sides. But the absolute eye-catcher was the market square with the fountain. It’s no wonder that this place often serves as a backdrop for various films.

Via a narrow alley on the market square we made our way up hill to the castle where we had a magnificent view of the old city and the Main.

Miltenberg is called the pearl of the Main and I couldn’t think of a better nickname for this town. This town is definitely worth a visit.

If you’re looking for a unique accommodation in Miltenberg, be sure to check out the famous Hotel Schmuckkästchen or Hotel zum Riesen.

Extra attrations in and around Rhineland

Aren’t you completely convinced yet? Or maybe you are? Well here are a few must sees (purple) that I definitely would recommend on a trip through Rhineland.

Eifel nature reserve

We love to combine culture and nature in our trips. The Eifel National Park is the perfect place to channel your inner adventurer. Walking or even cycling along the most beautiful paths through forests, across open fields and with the most dazzling views. And with a bit of luck you can also spot wildlife.

Burg Eltz

If you are in the area, don’t forget to visit Burg Eltz. One of the most beautiful castles in Germany. I must say that I was astonished when I saw this impressive castle for the first time. It immediately reminded me of a fairy tale. Unfortunately, admiring the interior of the castle is also only possible with a guided tour. So you can’t go exploring yourself.

From the entrance of the castle there are different hiking trails where you have views of the castle from different perspectives. So even if you won’t do the guided tour, you can spend a whole day at the Burg Eltz domain.

Another amazing castle to visit in Germany the Neuschwanstein castle. This one is located in Bavaria so it will take a bit more time to get there. I haven’t visited the Neuschwanstein castle myself, but it’s on my never ending bucket list.

Burg Eltz and Neuschawnstein castle are  2 of the most known landmarks in Germany. And definitely worth a visit.

A lesser know castle located in Central Germany that I would love to visit is the Altenstein Palace in Thuringian Forest. I hear it’s also an amazing place to hike.

Geierlay suspention bridge

This impressive 360 ​​meter long Geierlay suspension bridge in Mörsdorf is a well-known tourist attraction. A trip to this unforgettable and also free attraction is definitely a must do. You just can’t have any fear of heights. From the bridge you have a beautiful view of Mörsdorfer Bachtal.

We crossed the Geierlay suspension bridge during the summer, but I heard that crossing the bridge during the holidays is even more beautiful. The bridge would then be completely decorated with Christmas lights.

Would you like to eplore more of Germany’s famous sights? Be sure to check out these incredible landmarks in Germany.

Holiday park

During a vacation there can also be a day of (un)planned entertainment. Good times are guaranteed for young and old in the well-known amusement park, Holiday Park. From the most spectacular rollercoasters to a fairy tale themed indoor park. There is something for everyone. We had the best day there!

Guided attractions in and around Rhineland

Don’t forget to check out the most fun guided attractions or unique day trips from Getyourguide below. These are perfect if you want to add something extraordinary to your Germany trip.

The best hotels in and around Rhineland

If you’re planning a road trip and want to combine different destinations in one trip, this booking map widget might come in handy. This way you can plan the right accommodation on the perfect location in fucntion of your trip.

Booking.com

These were the 7 most romantic towns in and around the Rhineland in Germany, with the most spectacular sights in the region.

Which romantic town is your favorite? Let me know in the comments.

Thanks for reading

Yours truly,

Sarah

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