Top 11 Things to do in Beilstein Germany (Authentic Moselle 2024)

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things to do in beilstein germany
It really is this cute! People don’t understand just how quaint these wine villages along the Mosel River in Germany truly are!

Beilstein Germany Youtube : Walk with Ruby and I on a Cold Spring Day

As I strolled through the charming village with my doodle Ruby, I couldn’t help but feel transported back in time.

This small but picturesque village boasts one of the best-preserved historical appearances on the Moselle, earning it the nickname “Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle” or even “miniature Rothenburg ob der Tauber”.

things to do in beilstein germany

Beilstein is the ideal for a quiet, romantic anniversary trip for people that want to skip the crowds and experience authentic Germany.

But Beilstein’s past is just as important as its present. Just by wandering around the incredibly picturesque side alleys, you can connect to history in a vivid way. You can explore the castle ruins, visit local wineries, and take in the charming atmosphere of this historic town.

But it’s all about Metternich Castle, a castle dating back to the 12th century that lords over the village and will leave you in awe.

And the wine. Of course… wine tasting is a highlight of this Rhineland Pfalz Mosel wine village.

Things to do in beilstein germany castle

Read until the end where I’ll share tips on the best hotels that are inclusive and accessible.

Beilstein Germany Travel Guide

In this Moselle River Valley Germany Guide, I will first share with you some tips about Beilstein such as:

  • How to get to Beilstein
  • How long to stay in Beilstein
  • How to get around in Beilstein
  • Best time of year to visit Beilstein
  • Where to stay in Beilstein

Skip directly to the 11 things to do in Beilstein.

HOW TO GET TO BEILSTEIN MOSEL

By Car: There are stunning back roads in the Mosel River Valley that are worth a drive in all seasons.  What I really want to do is rent a convertible Porsche and zoom through this lowland mountain range and fairytale castle land. Most people will be coming from other cities on the Moselle River such as Trier or Koblenz and the highways are very nice.

When you book your transport online, I personally recommend and always use OMIO. They search for trains, buses, flights and ferries, so you get the easiest way to your destination! 

By Flight: Frankfurt Hahn Airport is 45 minutes away. There are also 3 easy airports close to Beilstein that take about 1.5 hours to drive to get there. The first is Frankfurt International Airport.  The second is Luxemburg International Airport.  And finally, Cologne-Bonn International Airport is also an easy drive.

By Transit: To reach this village on the river Moselle (Mosel in German) you’ll really need a car as there is no train. You can utilize bus connections, but it’s not very convenient.

things to do in beilstein germany

Related Reading:  

HOW LONG TO STAY IN BEILSTEIN

things to do in beilstein germany
From Ruby and I’s last Trip in 2023…

You can take public bus transport to the magical Mosel Valley, but a car is more ideal for exploring the area.

Most people coming to Beilstein may only be here as an afternoon stop on one of the Moselle River boat cruises and that’s totally fine. You can see all of the sights in the space of an afternoon.

However if you really want to soak in the genuine German ambiance I would suggest an overnight stay to see the village in the misty mornings and have it all to yourself.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN BEILSTEIN

One of the best ways to get to know Beilstein is by walking along the Altstadt, or Old Town. From the river Moselle to Beilstein is only 20 feet!

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in into a fairy-tail movie set as you wander through the narrow streets and admire the half-timbered houses stacked upon each other.

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT BEILSTEIN

Year Round Fun – but mid-April through late October is the Best

Mother’s day is my absolute favorite time to visit the Mosel River Valley. The canola oil fields are blooming a brilliant yellow and fruit trees are still in blossom.

The crowds haven’t come yet and you get to enjoy restaurants and wine tastings without reservations. However, the summer season can get quite crowded during the mid-day when the cruise ships have docked.

January through March is the low season and many hotels and restaurants are closed. 

WHERE TO STAY IN BEILSTEIN

things to do in beilstein germany

The absolute best places to stay in Cochem are the Romantic Alte Stadtmauer and the Villa Beilstein.

I loved that it really feels like you are embedded into a medieval village, especially when the day trippers go home. They have walk-in showers and allergy free rooms if you’re like me and get horrible allergies. They’ve got a nice breakfast and you can make tea or coffee directly in your room.

Best Hotel in Beilstein

Stay in the Best NON-Touristic Mosel Town

  • Views of the River
  • Friendly Staff
  • Great Breakfast

Getting to Know Beilstein

Beilstein is a small town in the district of Cochem-Zell in the Rhineland-Palatinate state of Germany. The town is located on the banks of the Moselle river and is known for its well-preserved historic center and castle ruins. It’s often called a miniature Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

The history of Beilstein dates back to the Roman period, when the area was settled by the Celts around 800 AD.

Let’s dive into the list and discover the best things to do in Beilstein.

TOP 11 THINGS TO DO IN BEILSTEIN GERMANY

Today, Beilstein is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful scenery, historic architecture, and excellent wine.

1. Visit the Metternich Castle

things to do in beilstein germany
Perched above the old town.

The Metternich Castle is a must-visit when in Beilstein and one of many astounding Mosel river castles. The castle ruins offer a great view of the town and the Moselle river. The entrance fee is only a few euros, and it’s definitely worth it. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the climb to the top can be steep.

2. Amble the Altstadt (Old Town) & Climb the Klostertreppe

things to do in beilstein germany

The charming old town of Beilstein is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. With its narrow streets, half-timbered houses, and quaint shops and cafes, it’s one of the best places to visit in Mosel Valley.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the town, admiring the architecture and soaking up the atmosphere. Don’t miss the picturesque Klostertreppe that winds up to the catholic church. There’s a lovely cafe at the top and gorgeous views of the impossibly steep vineyards and the Moselle River.

3. Be Inspired by the Pfarrei-Moselkrampen (St. Joseph’s Church+ Carmelite Monastery)

things to do in beilstein germany

But Beilstein isn’t just a pretty face – it’s also a pilgrimage site. Inside the Baroque Saint Joseph’s Monastery Church, visitors can find the “Miraculous Black Madonna”. This statue has a rich history, originating from Spain in the 12th or 13th century and left behind by the Spaniards after their brief rule over Beilstein following the Thirty Years’ War. It was then taken to France, only to be returned to Beilstein in 1950.

One of the highlights of the monastery church is its impressive organ, built by Balthasar König from Münstereifel/Cologne in 1738. Restoration work in 2002 brought the instrument back to its original sound and character.

🏰 I made a full tour guide of the Rhine River Castles and Castle Ruins with GPS, history and architecture tidbits. The Rhine and Mosel Valleys are like salt and pepper, they go together so well.

4. Taste Wines at Zehnthauskeller

things to do in beilstein germany

If you’re considering what to do in Beilstein, no trip would be complete without a wine tasting. There are multiple wine tastings and cellars here, but the Zehnthauskeller has the best ambiance and outdoor seating.

You can walk through the gatehouse and admire its sturdy stone walls and intricate carvings.

If you happen to be visiting Beilstein during July and August, don’t miss the Beilsteiner Märchensommer (Beilstein Fairy-Tale Summer). This enchanting event features fairy tales performed by the marionette theatre from nearby Cochem at the winegrowing museum. The series of events opens and closes with a traditional version of the Brothers Grimm’s “Sleeping Beauty”, fittingly in keeping with one of the village’s nicknames.

Restaurants in Beilstein

things to do in beilstein germany

I highly recommend the Hotel Haus Lipmann restuarant located at the riverfront, the service is hospitable and the food is traditional German yummy.

5. Go Canoeing

The Moselle River is a great place for canoeing. There are several rental companies in the area, and many offer guided tours. Canoeing is a great way to see the area from a different perspective and get some exercise. Canoeing on the Moselle is good for the entire family and pretty gentle.

🛶 This is my favorite guided canoe trip on the Moselle River. 🛶

6. Moselsteig Long Distance Hiking Trail

things to do in beilstein Germany

The Moselsteig is a 365-kilometer trail that follows the Moselle River from Perl to Koblenz. The trail is divided into 24 stages, and hikers can choose to complete the entire trail or just a section. The trail offers stunning views of the river and surrounding vineyards. 

My favorite here is to walk on the Moselsteig from Cochem to Beilstein due to the dramatic cliffs. Other sections of the Moselsteig include Moselsteig Route in Schweich and the Mosel River Valley walk in Mehring.

7. Cycling and Bike Tours

Beilstein and the surrounding area are perfect for cycling. There are several routes to choose from, including the Moselle River Cycle Path.  Sometimes in high water the bike path will be flooded.  In these spots you’ll have to use the road. 

🚴‍♀️ You’ll love this bike, wine and picnic boat tour departing from nearby Cochem.

8. Go Cruising on the Moselle River

things to do beilstein

A Moselle River Cruise is a great way to see the area from a different perspective. There are several companies that offer river cruises, ranging from short tours to full-day trips. The dock is right across from the gelato shop with current times posted. It changes for each season.

🛳️ This is my favorite Moselle Cruise

9. Adventure at the Nearby Calmont Klettersteig 

things to do in mosel germany

This is perfect For People Who ❤️ Off-the-Beaten Path.  As someone who loves a good adrenaline rush, I highly recommend checking out the Calmont Klettersteig.

This via ferrata, or iron path, is located on the steep slopes of the Calmont mountain and offers stunning views of the Moselle River. The Calmont Klettersteig is not for the faint of heart – it’s a challenging climb that requires strength, endurance, and a head for heights.

But the views from the top are absolutely worth it. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you look out over the steepest vineyards in the world. 

10. Wine Tours in Next Door Cochem

things to do in beilstein germany

Cochem is a renowned wine region in Germany, and a visit to the town would be incomplete without experiencing its wine culture. Wine tasting is one of the top things to do in Cochem Germany.

Wine tasting tours are an excellent way to explore the Mosel Valley wine region.

👉Click here to book my favorite wine tour in Cochem.

You can join guided tours through the valley’s vineyards, wineries, and wine cellars or just go towards a “wineprobe” sign.

11. Day Trips from Beilstein

If you’re looking for things to do in Beilstein Germany that include off-the-beaten path daytrips, I’ve got you covered with my favorites.

Here are a few day trips you can take from Beilstein:

Urzig

ürzig germany

Urzig is a charming wine village located just 45 min from Cochem. It is known for its steep vineyards and the Urziger Wurzgarten vineyard, which produces some of the best Riesling wines in the region.

You can take a stroll through the village’s narrow streets and admire its half-timbered houses, visit the local wine museum, or enjoy a wine tasting at one of the many wineries in the area.

If you read my post about Urzig, it includes all of the family run wineries with a spreadsheet to download.

Cochem

cochem germany

If you’re visiting Beilstein, a day trip to nearby Cochem is a must-do. This charming town is just a short drive away and is full of historic architecture, cute shops, and delicious restaurants. Here are some of the top things to do during your day trip to Cochem:

  1. Reichsburg Castle: This medieval castle is perched high above Cochem and offers breathtaking views of the town and the Moselle River. Take a tour of the castle to learn about its history and enjoy the stunning architecture.
  2. Old Town: Wander through the narrow streets and admire the beautiful half-timbered houses that line them. You’ll find plenty of cute shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.
  3. Cochem Chairlift: Take a ride on the chairlift to the top of Pinner Kreuz mountain for panoramic views of Cochem and the Moselle River. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also hike back down to town.
  4. Wine Tasting: Cochem is located in the heart of the Moselle wine region, so be sure to sample some of the delicious local wines. Many wineries in the area offer tastings and tours.
  5. Moselle River Cruise: Take a relaxing cruise down the Moselle River and enjoy the beautiful scenery from the water. You can even take a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of the region.

Cochem is just a short trip from Beilstein and offers a wonderful day of exploring, learning, and relaxation. Don’t miss out on this charming town during your trip to the Moselle Valley.

To get there drive 10 minutes or take the boat downriver and get off on the Beilstein stop.

Rhine Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Rhine Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just a short drive from Cochem. Visitors can take a scenic drive along the river, stopping at charming villages like Rudesheim or Oberwesel and it only takes 1 hour.

The Rhine Castles hiking trail and cycling along the river entices adventure lovers to visit.

Burg Eltz Castle & Easy Hike

burg eltz

Beyond the Metternach Castle in Beilstein, the most famous fairytale castle in the area is Burg Eltz, which is located about 40 minutes northeast of Beilstein. This fairytale castle is a must-see attraction in the Moselle Valley.  Eltz Castle is one of the most popular castles in the area, and the hike to the castle is a must-do for any visitor.

The hike is approximately 2.5 kilometers long and takes about 45 minutes. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the castle and surrounding countryside.

Burg Eltz Flying Dress Photoshoot

For a unique experience, visitors can book a flying dress photoshoot at Burg Eltz. The photoshoot involves wearing a 18 ft long flowing dress that is thrown into the air for a dramatic effect.  The photoshoot takes place in the castle courtyard and is a great way to capture a memorable moment.

Contact Goddess Lens for booking.

Mosel Valley Map of Beilstein Germany

things to do in beilstein germany
Click here for interactive map.

Click on this Mosel Germany Map and it will open an interactive google maps with everything you need to plan your trip.

Accommodation Options

Hotels and Inns

Looking for a cozy place to rest your head after a day of exploring Beilstein? You’re in luck! There are a handful of places to stay in Beilstein Germany. Mid-range hotels include the Alte Stadtmauer and Villa Beilstein.

Hotel/Inn Name
Click to 👎🏻 Book
Price RangeFeatures
Alte Stadtmauer$ – $$Located in the heart of Beilstein, offers stunning views of the Mosel River.
Villa Beilstein$$ – $$$Situated in a historic building, offers an elevator to rooms.
Hotel Lipmann$$ – $$$A boutique hotel with a wine theme, offers a wine cellar.

Each hotel and inn has its own unique features and amenities, so be sure to do your research and find the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Beilstein Camping and Glamping

If you’re looking to get closer to nature during your stay in Beilstein, camping or glamping might be the way to go. There is one campground across the river you can access by ferry that offers a unique and sustainable travel experience.

Whether you prefer roughing it in a tent or enjoying the comforts of a glamping site, camping in Beilstein is a great way to connect with nature and experience sustainable travel.

FAQ Things to do in Beilstein Germany

Beilstein to Cochem

Beilstein is located approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) southeast of Cochem along the Moselle river. There are several options for transportation between the two towns:

By car: The easiest and most convenient way to get from Beilstein to Cochem is by car. The drive takes around 15 minutes and follows the scenic Moselle river.

By bike: For those who prefer a more active approach, there is a bike path that runs along the Moselle river from Beilstein to Cochem. The route is approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) and takes around 45 minutes to an hour to complete.

By bus: There is a local bus that runs between Beilstein and Cochem, with several stops along the way. The journey takes around 25 minutes.

By boat: During the summer months, there are also several boat tours that run along the Moselle river between Beilstein and Cochem. The journey takes around 1.5 hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

Hotel Haus Lipman?

Hotel Haus Lipmann is a charming, family-run hotel located in the heart of Beilstein, Germany. The hotel features comfortable guest rooms, a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, and a beautiful garden terrace.

READY TO EXPLORE MORE FAIRYTALE GERMANY? HERE ARE MY TOP MOSEL & RHINE VALLEY GUIDES

Love History?  The Kirner Dolomiten hike is stunning and has a free audio tour you can use on your phone.

things to do in beilstein germany

Final Thoughts on Things to do in Beilstein Germany:

There are many ways to experience the romantic beauty of the Moselle Valley in Germany. Visitors can choose from a variety of transportation options, including boats, bikes, trains, and walking tours, to explore the region and take in its breathtaking scenery.

Best Things to do in Beilstein Germany

Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Beilstein has something to offer. From hiking the Moselsteig to visiting the Metternich ruins, visitors can experience the beauty of the Moselle River valley.

Beilstein is a must-visit destination in Germany for people like a more intimate look at German culture. It’s not full of tourists and excitement, but it’s got tons of ambiance.


I hope you enjoyed this travel guide for the best things to do in Beilstein Germany!

Author profile: Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.