The town of Épinal in France has a rich and international history and is best known for its old prints and textiles. In the 1,000-year-old historical centre, you’ll find the charming Place des Vosges lined with Renaissance arcade houses, including the Bailiff’s house built in 1604, the basilica, the covered market and the Chapter Museum. Famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral and surprising German Imperial District, Metz is a charming provincial city situated in the Lorraine region of France. Thionville, formerly a part of the Holy Roman Empire, is full of surprises. Its Fleas Tower houses an archaeological museum, Malbrouck Castle puts on exhibitions and nearby La Grange Chateau makes for an exceptional visit.
In Germany, Bernkastel-Kues is a twin town on the Middle Moselle, well known as a winegrowing centre. It produces some of the very finest Riesling available, from vineyards that climb the steep, slate-rich slopes above the small town. Bernkastel Doktor is one of the most famous vineyards - the name of which supposedly comes from the 14th-century prince-bishop Boemund II of Trier who drank two bottles of wine from the vineyard and was cured of a terminal illness overnight. Over in Cochem, rich history and picturesque landmarks await. The town of half-timbered houses, scurrying streets and medieval gates is on a loop in the river, under the steady watch of the famous Cochem Castle.
Set at the junction of the Rhine River and Moselle River, the ancient city of Koblenz is a picturesque place to wander - whether it’s through little squares and flower-filled parks or around the waters-meet, you’re bound to lose track of time thanks to the areas of outstanding beauty. Meanwhile, Trier, which boasts an impressive 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, is Germany’s oldest city and an important site for ancient art treasures and monuments. Porta Nigra, the Amphitheatre and the famous Imperial Baths, where the Romans went to relax, all bear witness to Trier’s extensive classical heritage. Luxembourg’s Remich is known as the pearl of the Moselle. A small tourist spot on the border triangle between Luxembourg, France and Germany, Remich boasts a picturesque panorama of vineyards and green spaces.
Which cruise lines sail along the Moselle River?
