Historic Old Town – Steep Vineyards – Landshut Castle: A Moselle Experience
Bernkastel-Kues is located in the heart of the Middle Moselle—nestled between the hills of the Eifel and the Hunsrück. This twin town connects the historic old town of Bernkastel with the neighboring district of Kues and looks back on over 2,000 years of history. Visitors here will discover a unique blend of culture, nature, and the Moselle way of life.
History
The chronicle of Bernkastel-Kues begins with the Celts, pauses with the Romans, pays a visit to the Merovingians and Franks, and goes on and on.
The town’s most famous son is the polymath Nikolaus von Kues, better known as Cusanus. You can visit his birthplace and the Cusanus Foundation, which he founded, in the Kues district and learn about an important chapter in European intellectual history.
Sightseeing in Bernkastel-Kues
In the alleys of the Old Town, you’ll find magnificent half-timbered houses, the early-Gothic St. Michael’s Church, and the Spitzhäuschen on the historic market square—all popular photo spots. High above the town stands Landshut Castle —the landmark of this Moselle town and a viewpoint offering sweeping views of the Moselle, vineyards, and rooftops.
Neighborhoods
The districts of Wehlen and Andel are also part of Bernkastel and Kues —ideal if you’d like to explore the region with its vineyards, Moselle floodplains, and small village centers beyond the Old Town.
Spa Park on the Kues Plateau
On the Kues Plateau , the spa park—with its health-promoting climate— invites you to stroll, relax, and stay active—featuring modern attractions such as the Skywalk and the Climate Pavilion.
On this page
🧭 Things to Do: What Makes It Special · Discover the Moselle Town · Leisure Tips · Tips for a Day Trip
📅 What’s Happening: Events & Experiences
🗺️ Get Your Bearings: Neighborhoods · Planning & Navigation · Search & Book
Bernkastel-Kues: Four Neighborhoods, One Moselle Experience
The town of Bernkastel-Kues consists of four districts—each with its own unique character: from the famous Old Town to the Moselle floodplains and wine-growing villages, all the way to Kues and its health-promoting plateau. Discover here at a glance what makes Bernkastel, Kues (including the Kues Plateau), Wehlen, and Andel each so special—and quickly find the perfect starting point for your stay.
Events in Bernkastel-Kues
Whether it’s a wine festival, a concert, or a guided tour of the town: There’s always something going on in Bernkastel-Kues all year round. Here you’ll find the major festivals lasting several days, the “Bernkastel-Kues live” cultural program, and all the latest events at a glance.
Today & Coming Up: An Overview of the Next 9 Events
There's something going on in Bernkastel-Kues almost every day—from city tours and themed tours to exhibitions, the wine stand, and various events.
The Biggest Festivals & Events
"Bernkastel-Kues Blossoms!" is the perfect way to kick off the year—a colorful spring festival that invites you to visit this Moselle town in March.
The summer months are packed with excitement: the Summer Stage, the Moselauenfest, and the Middle Mosel Wine Festival invite you to enjoy a lively festive atmosphere right on the banks of the Moselle. In addition, you can look forward to top-notch classical concerts from the Mosel Musikfestival as well as the new “machernbaroque 26” series.
The year culminates with the popular Christmas market—right in the heart of the picturesque alleys of Bernkastel-Kues’s downtown.
Events in Bernkastel-Kues
Whether it’s a wine festival, a concert, or a guided tour of the town: There’s always something going on in Bernkastel-Kues all year round. Here you’ll find the major festivals lasting several days, the “Bernkastel-Kues live” cultural program, and all current events at a glance.
What makes Bernkastel-Kues special?
Bernkastel-Kues embodies the romance of the Moselle with its own unique character: a historic old town with world-famous sights, a history of wine and culture that you can feel everywhere—and experiences set against the backdrop of the river, the steep slopes, and the Kueser Plateau. Discover the landmarks, stories, and leisure activities that make Bernkastel-Kues so unique.
The Landshut Castle Ruins—History with a View
Landshut Castle rises high above the Old Town—the landmark of Bernkastel-Kues. The medieval fortress was built on the foundations of a 4th-century Roman fort and bears witness to the long and significant history of this stretch of the Moselle.
The path up winds through the vineyards and is rewarded with an impressive panoramic view: of the Moselle loop, the rooftops of the Old Town, and the surrounding vineyards. Whether on foot or by the comfortable Landshut Castle Express, once you reach the top, you’ll find history you can touch and a castle restaurant with a special atmosphere.
Those walking to the castle can also stop along the way at the Schützenhaus am Burgberg—located right next to Landshut Castle and offering a unique view of Bernkastel-Kues.
Tip: A visit in the evening isespecially atmospheric, when the light over the Moselle and the vineyards creates a truly special ambiance.
Old Town Charm Around the Market Square and Karlsbader Platz
Narrow alleys, magnificent half-timbered houses, and a historic market square straight out of a picture book—plus Karlsbader Platz, a lively gathering spot: In Bernkastel’s Old Town, you’ll experience pure Moselle romance, with the Spitzhäuschen serving as a popular photo spot.
Did you know that the Spitzhäuschen even had a brief “magical moment” on the big screen? In “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1,” it served as the inspiration and backdrop for a narrow half-timbered house on Diagon Alley.
People & Stories
Cusanus, the legend of the Doctor and more: the stories that have shaped Bernkastel-Kues.
Bernkasteler Doctor – A Vineyard with a World-Class Reputation
Directly above the historic old town lies one of the world’s most famous vineyard sites: the Bernkasteler Doctor. Covering just 3.25 hectares, it is one of the smallest single vineyard sites on the Moselle—and at the same time one of the most exclusive. The steep slope of Devonian slate, the unique sunlight, and the reflective effect of the Moselle River and slate roofs create exceptional conditions here for great Rieslings. Every vine is meticulously tended by hand.
The wines produced here are characterized by mineral structure, crisp precision, and impressive depth. In good vintages, they develop additional complexity and maturity over many years. The Bernkasteler Doctor is still considered Germany’s most expensive vineyard site. The Wegeler Winery cultivates the largest portion of it; its involvement dates back to 1882—including the historic Doctor cellar from 1650.
Legends & Stories
The name Bernkasteler Doctor stems from a legend passed down through the ages: In the 14th century, Boemund II, Elector of Trier, is said to have recovered from a serious illness by drinking a Bernkastel wine. Out of gratitude, he named the vineyard “Doctor”—with the message that is still told today: “Here, an Elector was healed by wine.”
King Edward VII of Great Britain also valued it as “medicine.” Over time, figures such as Emperor Wilhelm II, General Dwight D. Eisenhower, and Konrad Adenauer counted themselves among its admirers. A notable episode occurred in 1955, when Adenauer’s delegation took a 1950 Bernkasteler Doctor Spätlese with them to Moscow for diplomatic talks—a wine steeped in history.
Tip: Every year during the Middle Moselle Wine Festival , the legend of the Bernkastel Doctor comes to life. At the festive “Reception of the Mosella” on the Friday of the wine festival, the Bernkastel Doctor, alongside the Wine Queen, makes his entrance onto the market square in historical garb—an atmospheric highlight that brings the history of the famous vineyard to life in a striking way.
In the Footsteps of the Bernkastel Doctor
As you stroll through the old town and gaze up at the steep rows of vines, you’ll discover a place that uniquely combines winemaking history and Moselle tradition.
Doctor Trail: A dedicated walking tour leads from the Graacher Gate through the vineyards past the Doctor, along the Doctor cellars carved into the hillside, and back to the Old Town. An information board at the vineyard recounts the legend.
Doctor Wine Tour: This guided tour through the old town, which includes two glasses of Doctor wine, lasts about 90 minutes and is one of the town’s most popular tours.
Nikolaus von Kues (Cusanus) – A Great Thinker from Bernkastel-Kues
Nikolaus von Kues (1401–1464), known in Latin as Nicolaus Cusanus, is the city’s most famous son. Born in Kues as the son of a Moselle riverboatman, he became one of the most important philosophers and theologians of the late Middle Ages. As a jurist, cardinal, church reformer, and polymath, he shaped the intellectual life of Europe far beyond his own time.
His magnum opus, *De docta ignorantia*, was written in 1440 in his birthplace on the Moselle and marks an important step from medieval to modern thought.
Follow in his footsteps in Kues: Visit his birthplace on the banks of the Moselle in Kues and the St. Nicholas Hospital (Cusanus Foundation), which he founded in 1458—one of the oldest social institutions in Germany still in operation today. In the chapel and the historic library, history comes to life—and the legacy of the great scholar is brought to life.
Hermann Schroeder – Church Music of International Standing
Bernkastel-Kues is the birthplace of Hermann Schroeder (1904–1984), a prominent musician. Born in Bernkastel, the composer is considered one of the most important Catholic church musicians of the 20th century. Encouraged from an early age by his parents, he received piano and organ lessons and, after graduating from high school, studied theology as well as church and school music in Cologne.
Schroeder served as cathedral organist in Trier, as director of a music school, and later as a professor at the Cologne University of Music. Among his students was Karlheinz Stockhausen. In addition to numerous publications on music theory, he composed an extensive body of work comprising around 40 masses, many motets, Passions, and over 100 organ compositions. He received numerous awards for his work, including the Federal Cross of Merit, First Class.
If you’d like to follow in his footsteps: At his childhood home at Gestade 11A, there is a bust and a commemorative plaque honoring the composer’s life and work.
Leisure & Recreation
The spa park, the Skywalk and a boat trip on the Moselle: enjoy, get active, relax.
Spa Park & Skywalk on the Kueser Plateau — Take a Deep Breath and Relax
On the Kueser Plateau, Bernkastel-Kues reveals its peaceful, expansive side: The town has been a health resort since 2005—and it is right up here that the high altitude, combined with the fresh forest air and the mild Moselle climate, exerts its unique restorative effect.
The centerpiece of the Kueser Plateau is the spa park, a nature-oriented therapeutic and recreational space featuring gardens, seating areas, and opportunities for physical activity. The spa visitor center offers information and event tickets, while the Café & Bistro, complete with a terrace, serves delicious cakes and ice cream specialties.
A real highlight is the Skywalk: the observation deck with sweeping views over the Moselle, the Old Town, and the vineyards—all the way to Landshut Castle.
Tip: If you ’d like to explore even more, start right in the spa park on one of the five loop trails—the Skywalk Trail, the Middle Moselle Creation Trail, the Herzblatt Trail, the Kurschatten Trail, or the Lieser Forest Adventure Trail—across the plateau.
Boat Tours from Bernkastel-Kues – Sightseeing Tours, Day Trips, and Themed Cruises on the Moselle
A boat ride on the Moselle is simply a must in Bernkastel-Kues: From the water, you can enjoy a relaxed view of the vineyards, riverside towns, and the city itself from a whole new perspective. Whether it’s a short round-trip, a multi-stage tour, or a day trip—plus, depending on the season, there are special event and themed cruises, such as those for the wine festival or the Christmas market.
Delights, History & Nature – Experience the Moselle town your way
Bernkastel-Kues has many facets—and something to suit every type of vacationer. Stroll through the medieval old town, browse the small shops, or discover the centuries-old history of this Moselle town.
Taste world-famous Riesling wines, hike the steep slopes, or relax in this renowned spa town.
Experience this Moselle town however you like.
Enjoying Your Moselle Vacation—Food & Drink in Bernkastel-Kues
From fine Riesling wines to traditional wine taverns and cozy restaurants and cafés: Bernkastel-Kues is a treat for all the senses. Discover the diverse cuisine of the Middle Moselle—from typical Moselle specialties like Moselle trout and Winzerbraten to creative culinary experiences right on the river.
Exploring Your Moselle Holiday—Strolling & Shopping in the Old Town
Amid half-timbered houses and vineyards, Bernkastel-Kues is a wonderful place to stroll and browse: Around the historic market square and in the winding alleys of the old town, you’ll find independently owned boutiques, wine shops, galleries, and delicatessens—all brimming with regional character. In between, take a break at a café, a wine tavern, or a wine bar to round off your stroll in a typical Moselle atmosphere.
Gift idea: With its wide selection of participating businesses, the Bernkastel-Kues gift certificate is the ideal present for fans of this Moselle town.
Things to Discover on a Moselle Holiday – Culture & History in Bernkastel-Kues
Medieval half-timbered houses, an imposing castle ruin, and the legacy of a great scholar—Bernkastel-Kues is a living history book on the Moselle.
Stroll through the historic market square with its Renaissance town hall, discover the Cusanus Foundation founded by Nikolaus von Kues, or enjoy a breathtaking view of the town, the river, and the vineyards from the Landshut castle ruins.
All this and much more awaits you in Bernkastel-Kues. You can also find the stories behind them in our town chronicle.
Things to Do on a Moselle Holiday – City Tours & Adventure Tours in Bernkastel-Kues
On a guided city tour, experienced tour guides bring the Old Town to life: from the classic Old Town walking tour to the evening Night Watchman tour and the legendary Doctor Wine Tour.
Prefer to explore on your own? The Wine and Lemonade Hunt takes you from bar to bar in a fun way using a puzzle app; the audio tour lets you discover the city’s highlights at your own pace; and the Wine Backpack — “Walk like a Local,” complete with audiovisual maps and Moselle wines in your backpack—invites you on an unforgettable tour through the Old Town and vineyards.
The perfect experience for every type of explorer.
Relax on the Moselle—Wellness & Well-Being in Bernkastel-Kues
The two wellness hotels in Bernkastel-Kues also open their spa and sauna facilities to day visitors. In addition, local beauty salons and day spas offer personalized pampering programs—so you can easily incorporate a wellness getaway into your Moselle vacation, regardless of where you’re staying.
Tip: If you’d like to enjoy your stay longer, book a full wellness vacation right away. Hotel DEINHARD’s and the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kürfürsten combine wellness with regional cuisine and the finest Moselle wine—for a getaway that truly rejuvenates.
Rejuvenation on the Moselle—Health Resort & Wellness in Bernkastel-Kues
Bernkastel-Kues is more than just a charming little town on the Moselle—since 2005, it has held the state-recognized designation of “health resort with a therapeutic climate.” The clean air, the mild Moselle climate, and the wooded slopes of the Kueser Plateau create ideal conditions for relaxation, recovery, and rehabilitation. With the renowned MEDIAN Rehabilitation Center—the largest rehabilitation facility in Rhineland-Palatinate—as well as the spa park and the spa guest center, Bernkastel-Kues offers everything the body and mind need.
Active Holiday along the Moselle—Hiking Around Bernkastel-Kues
Bernkastel-Kues is the ideal starting point for active days along the Moselle. Trails lead directly from the town up into the steep slopes, past Riesling vineyards with views of the river.
The Moselsteig, a premium hiking trail, winds through the region, making Bernkastel-Kues the perfect place to stop for a night. Those who prefer shorter loops will find varied tours right on their doorstep along the Moselsteig side trails and the Ferienlandwege.
Active Holiday along the Moselle – Cycling Around Bernkastel-Kues
Bernkastel-Kues is the ideal starting point for active days along the Moselle. The Moselle Cycle Route runs right through the region: flat, well-signposted, and lined with vineyards, river views, and Moselle towns along the way.
Those looking for more elevation gain will also find what they’re looking for: signposted routes for touring cyclists—with or without e-bikes—and mountain bikers explore the hinterland, including the Hunsrück and the Eifel, offering unforgettable views of the Moselle landscape.
7 Tips: Enjoy Bernkastel-Kues in Any Weather
Bernkastel-Kues has something to offer no matter the weather. Whether it’s too hot, too wet, or too cold—you’ll always find a great way to enjoy your day here. Cool wine cellars, cozy wine bars, museums, wellness facilities, and more await you. Here are nine tips to make the most of your stay, no matter the weather.
There are numerous parking spaces available in Bernkastel-Kues, as well as the Old Town parking garage —both in Bernkastel and in Kues, and along both banks of the Moselle.
Parking fees apply seasonally (daily during the day); payment can be made at a parking meter or via mobile parking. If you’re staying longer, you can purchase multi-day parking tickets (3 days / week / month) for Kues, Bernkastel, or a combination of both—online or in person at the tourist information office. Additional information is available on EV charging stations as well as regulations for motorcycles, buses, RVs, short-term parking, and accessible parking spaces.
An overview of all parking information in Bernkastel-Kues.
Yes—as an overnight guest in the town of Bernkastel-Kues (including its neighborhoods) , you will receive the Bernkastel-Kues Guest Cardfrom your host. This is contingent upon payment of the visitor’s fee. The fee is €1.70 per person per night, is charged separately by your host (not included in the room rate), and helps help fund the town’s tourism infrastructure and attractions.
With the guest card, you’ll enjoy numerous discounts during your stay—for example, on guided tours, excursions/boat trips, cultural events, recreational activities, museums, dining, retail, as well as at wineries and wine tastings. The guest card is valid only for the duration of your stay, is non-transferable, and is also available in digital form.
An overview of all information regarding the guest card and the guest tax.
Yes—the VRT Guest Ticket is available in the Bernkastel-Kues vacation region. As an overnight guest at a participating lodging facility, you’ll receive it from your host at check-in — at no additional cost.
With this ticket, you can use public transportation in the VRT area free of charge throughout your entire stay, including your arrival and departure days (buses and regional trains RE/RB, 2nd class).
The Bernkastel-Kues Guest Card and the VRT Guest Ticket are two different things:
Bernkastel-Kues Guest Card:
ℹ️ All overnight guests in Bernkastel-Kues automatically receive the guest card from their host.
💳 In addition, a visitor’s fee is charged, which is not included in the price of the overnight stay: €1.70 per night.
✅ It offers discounts and perks,
❌ but not free rides on buses and trains.
👉 All information about the Bernkastel-Kues guest card and guest fee.
VRT Guest Ticket:
ℹ️ Overnight guests receive this from participating accommodations throughout the Bernkastel-Kues vacation region.
💳 The GuestTicket is included in the price of your stay.
✅ It allows for free travel by bus and train on the VRT network,
❌ but does not provide any additional discounts or benefits.
👉 Find all the information about the VRT Guest Ticket and participating businesses in the Bernkastel-Kues vacation region.
Bernkastel-Kues is easily accessible—by car, bus, and train.
By car, you can easily reach it via the B 53. You can access the B 53 via the A1 highway. For those coming from the Hunsrück region, there is a 555-meter-long mountain tunnel that bypasses the town.
You can find information about parking options and parking tickets on the Parking page.
If you’re traveling by train, your best options are the nearest train stations, Wittlich or Traben-Trarbach. From , buses run from there all the way to Bernkastel-Kues. Bernkastel-Kues is not directly connected to the train line. Once you’re there, distances in Bernkastel-Kues are short: The town is easy to explore on foot—and you can quickly reach the surrounding towns by bus or taxi.
Tip for public transit users: With the VRT Guest Ticket, overnight guests staying at participating accommodations in the Bernkastel-Kues vacation region can use buses and regional trains (RE/RB, 2nd class) in the VRT area free of charge—for the duration of their stay, including the day of arrival and departure.
All the information you need about getting to and around Bernkastel-Kues at a glance.
You can get personalized holiday advice at the Mosel Guest Center —the tourist information office in Bernkastel-Kues. The team will be happy to assist you with local tips and information, brochures, room reservations, and questions about group travel.
You can find the address, contact information, and hours of operation on the details page.
Tip: Outside of opening hours, you can also use our digital Wine Queen Mosella and ask your questions online via chat.
