Surrounded by rolling vineyards, Traben-Trarbach is an enchanting town set in the heart of Germany’s Moselle wine region. Stroll along grassy riverside promenades, dine at upmarket restaurants and explore a centuries-old castle. Beautiful cycling routes and scenic walking trails immerse you in the natural beauty of the Rhineland-Palatinate region.

Things to do

Traben-Trarbach is a gateway to the picturesque Valley of Dawn and the world-renowned Moselle wine region. Rent a bike and spend the day pedalling through the postcard-perfect vineyards. There are plenty of wineries to stop at along the way, most offering elegant tasting rooms and restaurants with sweeping vineyard views.

Grevenburg is perched high above the town and was once an important stronghold. A 500-metre-long trail known as the Sponheimer Weg winds up to the castle and rewards you with stunning views over the town and the valley. After a day of sightseeing, soak your muscles at Moseltherme, a thermal spa complex fed by underground hot springs.

Mittelmosel-Museum occupies a beautiful baroque villa and showcases gleaming antiques, centuries-old paintings, period costumes and other artefacts. On the left bank of the Mosel is the modern Traben district. Most of the medieval buildings have been replaced with handsome At Nouveau villas, many designed by iconic German architect Bruno Möhring.

Traben-Trarbach is a prime destination for foodies and many restaurants champion traditional Moselle cuisine. Dine on mouth-watering dishes such as pork with creamy Riesling sauce and crispy “dibbelabbes” potato cakes served with asparagus. Of course, your meal should be paired with wine from a local vineyard.

Getting around

Traben-Trarbach is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The town is a 1.5-hour drive from Frankfurt and two hours from Cologne. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore the Moselle wine region at your own pace. Cologne Bonn Airport is a two-hour drive away.