MS Switzerland vaart over de Moezel tijdens een 8-daagse fietscruise van Koblenz naar Saarburg langs wijngaarden en schilderachtige rivierlandschappen.

Germany

Bike and Barge Tour Moselle & Saar: Koblenz to Saarburg aboard MS Switzerland

8 days

Bike and Barge Holidays

startdag(en): Saturday

225km

Easy

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8 days · Bike and Barge Tour · Saturday departures · approx. 225 km · Easy

Cycle through more than 2,000 years of history on this 8-day bike and barge holiday along the Moselle and Saar rivers, travelling from Koblenz to Saarburg aboard the comfortable MS Switzerland.

This relaxed, self-guided cycling holiday follows mostly flat, paved cycle paths through some of Germany’s most beautiful wine country. Along the way, you will cycle past vineyard-covered hills, picturesque half-timbered wine villages, medieval castles and important Roman heritage sites. The route is particularly suitable for recreational cyclists and less experienced riders.

Over the course of the week, you will cycle approximately 225 kilometres, while the MS Switzerland takes you and your luggage from one overnight stop to the next. This means you can enjoy a different cycling route every day without having to pack and unpack your suitcase.

Highlights include fairytale-like Cochem, the steep vineyards of Bremmer Calmont, the Art Nouveau architecture of Traben-Trarbach, the medieval market square of Bernkastel-Kues, Roman Trier with its famous Porta Nigra, and the final destination of Saarburg, known as “Little Venice” because of its waterfall and Baroque houses along the water.

no Schepen found

Cycling through wine country, sleeping on the water. On this 8-day bike and barge holiday along the Moselle and Saar, you cycle every day through vineyards, medieval villages and historic wine towns, while enjoying the comfort of a river cruise ship at night.Peddelend door wijnland, slapend op het water. Op deze 8-daagse fiets-en-bootreis langs de Moezel en Saar fiets je elke dag langs middeleeuwse kastelen, wijngaarden en historische wijnsteden, terwijl je overnacht aan boord van een comfortabel rivierschip.

Burg Eltz in het Moezeldal, omringd door dicht bos en groene heuvels – iconische bezienswaardigheid tijdens een fiets- en vaarvakantie tussen Saarburg en Koblenz

Porta Nigra in Trier, indrukwekkende Romeinse stadspoort en UNESCO-bezienswaardigheid langs de Saar- en Moezelroute tijdens de fiets- en vaarvakantie Saarburg–Koblenz

Highlights of this bike and barge tour

Cochem — a fairytale-like town with half-timbered houses, a picturesque old town and an impressive castle overlooking the Moselle.
Bremmer Calmont — home to one of Europe’s steepest vineyard slopes, offering spectacular views over the river.
Traben-Trarbach — a romantic Moselle town renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture.
Bernkastel-Kues — one of the most attractive towns along the Moselle, with a charming medieval market square, half-timbered houses and excellent opportunities to sample local wine.
Piesport & Neumagen-Dhron — Piesport is one of the oldest wine-growing communities along the Moselle, while Neumagen-Dhron is considered Germany’s oldest wine town and is home to Roman heritage and historic wine cellars.
Trier — one of Germany’s oldest cities, with impressive Roman monuments including the Porta Nigra, Constantine’s Basilica and the Roman Amphitheatre.
Saarburg — the atmospheric final destination, famous for its spectacular 20-metre waterfall in the heart of the historic centre and its charming Baroque houses.

Day-to-Day Itinerary

Your bike and barge holiday begins in Koblenz, one of Germany’s oldest cities. Koblenz lies at the famous Deutsches Eck, where the Moselle flows into the Rhine.

Board the MS Switzerland from 4:00 pm and settle into your comfortable cabin. Take some time to explore Koblenz before your journey along the Moselle begins.

After breakfast, the ship takes you towards Alken. From there, you begin your first cycling stage along the Moselle.

The route leads through peaceful river landscapes and picturesque villages towards Moselkern and eventually Cochem. This first cycling day is a wonderful introduction to the Moselle Valley, with vineyards, castles and traditional wine villages along the way.

Today you cycle from Cochem through some of the most scenic sections of the Moselle Valley.

Pass the charming wine village of Beilstein before continuing towards Bremm and the spectacular Bremmer Calmont vineyard. The route then continues to Zell, famous for its wine-growing tradition and the well-known “Zeller Schwarze Katz” wine.

Today’s route takes you through the heart of the Moselle wine region.

Cycle through vineyards and picturesque riverside villages towards Traben-Trarbach, known for its impressive Art Nouveau architecture. Continue to Bernkastel-Kues, one of the most beautiful towns on the Moselle, where a charming medieval centre awaits.

From Bernkastel-Kues, continue cycling through the Moselle wine country.

The route takes you through Piesport and Neumagen-Dhron, two places with a long and fascinating wine-making history. Roman heritage is a recurring theme today, with archaeological remains and historic wine traditions connecting the present with the region’s Roman past.

Your cycling day ends in the Riol/Mehring area.

A shorter cycling stage brings you to Trier, one of Germany’s oldest cities.

Trier is famous for its Roman heritage, including the impressive Porta Nigra, the Constantine Basilica and the Roman Amphitheatre. There is plenty of time to explore the historic city centre before returning to the ship.

Today you leave Germany temporarily and cycle towards Wasserbillig in Luxembourg, located at the confluence of the Moselle and Sauer rivers.

From Wasserbillig, the route continues towards Saarburg in Germany. Your final cycling destination is one of the most atmospheric towns on the Saar.

After breakfast, it is time to say goodbye to the MS Switzerland.

Disembark in Saarburg by 9:00 am. If you have time, explore the town before beginning your journey home.

Please note: For the departure on 24 April 2027, the itinerary differs slightly. Embarkation takes place in Bonn instead of Koblenz.

Route Map: 8-Day Bike and Barge Holiday from Koblenz to Saarburg

The complete route of this 8-day Moselle and Saar bike and barge holiday takes you from Koblenz to Saarburg aboard the MS Switzerland.

The journey starts in Koblenz, where the Moselle meets the Rhine at the famous Deutsches Eck. From here, you follow quiet cycle paths through one of Germany’s most renowned wine regions.

Along the way, you visit atmospheric towns and villages including Cochem, Beilstein, Zell, Traben-Trarbach, Bernkastel-Kues, Mehring, Trier and Wasserbillig in Luxembourg.

The journey ends in historic Saarburg, famous for its spectacular waterfall flowing through the old town.

The route combines easy cycling, vineyards, historic towns, castles and river landscapes — while your floating hotel takes care of your overnight accommodation and luggage.

Routekaart van de Mosel fietsvakantie van Saarburg via Trier, Bernkastel-Kues en Cochem naar Koblenz met duidelijke rode lijn langs de rivier.

The barge

MS Switzerland

Moselle and Saar

Discover the MS Switzerland, a comfortable ship for bike and barge holidays on the Moselle & Saar. French balcony cabins, panoramic lounge, sun deck.

More information

Sights along the route

Saarburg

Saarburg is a photogenic town with half-timbered houses, narrow streets and a spectacular 20-metre waterfall right in the town centre.

The historic watermill, Baroque buildings and atmospheric market square make Saarburg a wonderful final destination for this cycling and river cruise holiday.

Trier

Trier is an absolute must-see on this Moselle and Saar cycling holiday.

The city is filled with Roman history and impressive monuments, including:

Porta Nigra — Trier’s iconic Roman city gate.
Roman Baths — impressive remains of Trier’s Roman past.
Roman Amphitheatre — one of the city’s most important ancient monuments.
Constantine’s Basilica — a remarkable Roman-era building.
Trier Cathedral — one of Germany’s oldest cathedral churches.

Trier is the perfect destination for travellers who want to combine cycling, history, culture and wine.

Burg Eltz

Burg Eltz is one of Germany’s most impressive castles and a particularly attractive option for travellers interested in history, nature and architecture.

Hidden in a densely wooded valley near Moselkern, the castle is remarkably well preserved and is considered one of Europe’s finest medieval castles.

With its towers, half-timbered façades and robust stone walls, Burg Eltz looks like something from a fairytale.

Bernkastel-Kues

Bernkastel-Kues is one of the most beautiful towns on the Moselle.

The historic market square, romantic narrow streets and views over the vineyards of the Michelsberg make this an ideal place for photographs, wine tasting and discovering local specialities.

Cochem

Cochem combines a lively atmosphere with romantic Moselle scenery.

The imposing Reichsburg, traditional half-timbered houses, wine terraces and narrow streets create an unmistakable atmosphere.

The viewpoints above the town are well worth the climb and offer beautiful views across the Moselle Valley.

Koblenz

Koblenz is one of Germany’s oldest cities and an impressive starting point for this bike and barge holiday.

The city’s most famous landmark is Deutsches Eck, where the Rhine and Moselle meet.

Another highlight is Stolzenfels Castle, just south of Koblenz. This romantic white castle rises above the Rhine and is considered one of the most beautiful castles in the Rhine Valley.

Prices and Departure Dates

The following prices are per person based on two people sharing a cabin.

2026 – MS Olympia

Season B: 29 August–5 September / 12–19 September
Season A: 26 September–3 October / 10–17 October

Season	2-person cabin – lower deck	2-person cabin – upper deck	Single cabin
Season A	€1,199	€1,299	€1,449
Season B	€1,449	€1,549	€1,649

2027 – MS Switzerland

Season 2 departure dates:
8 May, 31 July, 14 August, 28 August, 11 September and 25 September 2027.

Cabin	Price per person
2-person cabin – upper deck	€1,649
2-person Eco cabin – upper deck	€1,599
2-person Mini Suite – upper deck	€1,699
2-person cabin – main deck	€1,499
2-person Eco cabin – main deck	€1,449
Single cabin – main deck	€1,649
2-person cabin for single use – upper deck	€2,268.60
2-person cabin for single use – main deck	€2.058.60

Eco Cabins

Eco cabins are located at the rear of the ship. During sailing and when passing through locks, engine and generator noise may be audible.

Supplements

Supplement	Price
2-person cabin for single use	+40%, limited availability

Included

7 nights aboard the MS Switzerland
Accommodation in a comfortable outside cabin with private bathroom
Full board: 7 breakfasts, 6 packed lunches or lunch on board, afternoon coffee and tea, and 7 three-course dinners
Welcome drink
Daily cabin service
All port, bridge and lock feesInformation meeting about the cycling routes
Digital travel documents via the GUIBO app, including GPS routes
Tour guide on board

Not included

Travel to and from Koblenz/Saarburg
Parking costs
Rental bicycle (optional)
Entrance fees and optional excursions
Ferries
Drinks on board
Travel and cancellation insurance
Tips
Personal expenses

Optional extras

Prices per person, including VAT.

Optional service / extra	Price
7-speed rental bicycle (unisex)	€109
8-speed e-bike rental	€241
Bring your own bicycle	€65
UVEX I-VO bicycle helmet (on board)	€50

Practical Information Moselle & Saar Bike and Barge Holiday aboard the MS Switzerland

Information	Details
Trip duration	8 days / 7 nights
Ship	MS Switzerland
Route	Koblenz – Saarburg
Departure day	Every Saturday
Trip type	Individual bike and barge holiday
Difficulty level	★☆☆☆☆ – Easy
Total cycling distance	Approx. 225 km
Daily distances	Approximately 26–48 km per day
Terrain	Mostly flat, paved cycle paths along the Moselle and Saar
Suitable for	Recreational cyclists, couples and active travellers
Embarkation	From 4:00 pm in Koblenz (Bonn on 24 April 2027)
Disembarkation	After breakfast, by 9:00 am in Saarburg
Languages on board	German and English
Travel document	Valid passport or identity card
Bicycle rental	7-speed bicycle or e-bike available
Bringing your own bicycle	Possible on request, subject to limited capacity

A little preparation will help you get the most out of this 8-day Moselle and Saar bike and barge holiday. Below you will find practical information about the MS Switzerland, accessibility, parking, travel requirements and important considerations before departure.

Is This Bike and Barge Holiday Suitable for You?

This bike and barge holiday through Germany and Luxembourg is suitable for recreational cyclists who enjoy relaxed cycling on mostly flat and traffic-free or low-traffic cycle paths along the Moselle and Saar.

The cycling stages range from approximately 26 to 48 kilometres per day, making this a comfortable option for cyclists who prefer sightseeing and enjoying the scenery rather than challenging climbs.

The MS Switzerland has several decks connected by stairs. As a result, this holiday is less suitable for travellers who use a wheelchair or have difficulty climbing stairs.

Would you prefer to bring your own bicycle? This may be possible upon prior request and subject to available space on board.

For e-bikes, the battery must be removable. Tandems and tricycles cannot be accommodated.

For additional safety, we recommend wearing a bicycle helmet on all cycling stages.

Life Aboard the MS Switzerland

During this Moselle and Saar bike and barge holiday, you stay aboard the comfortable MS Switzerland.

While you explore the most beautiful cycling routes during the day, the ship travels to the next overnight destination.

After each cycling stage, you can relax in the lounge, enjoy the sun deck or have dinner on board.

This makes the trip an ideal combination of an active cycling holiday and a relaxing river cruise.

Travel Conditions

All port, bridge and lock fees are included in the tour price.

To participate in this bike and barge holiday, you must have a valid passport or identity card. Always check the current entry and validity requirements before departure.

During the trip, you receive daily practical information about the route and programme.

In exceptional weather conditions, extremely high or low water levels or during lock maintenance, the sailing or cycling programme may be changed.

The safety of all passengers always takes priority.

Starting Your Holiday in Koblenz

Your bike and barge holiday starts in Koblenz, one of Germany’s oldest cities.

Here, the Rhine and Moselle meet at the famous Deutsches Eck.

Before departure, take some time to explore the historic city centre, stroll along the Rhine promenade or visit Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

From Koblenz, the MS Switzerland begins its relaxed journey along the Moselle towards Saarburg.

Parking in Koblenz

If you arrive by car, several public car parks and parking garages are available in and around Koblenz where you can leave your vehicle during the trip.

As parking availability and prices can change, we recommend checking the latest parking information before departure.

Travelling by Train

Koblenz is easily accessible by train from the Netherlands and Belgium.

From Koblenz Hauptbahnhof, you can reach the MS Switzerland’s embarkation point by taxi or public transport.

This makes the holiday a particularly attractive option if you prefer to travel more sustainably.

The End of Your Journey in Saarburg

After eight days of cycling and cruising, your journey ends in atmospheric Saarburg.

This charming wine town is famous for its spectacular waterfall flowing through the historic town centre, colourful half-timbered houses and inviting terraces.

Saarburg provides a beautiful ending to an unforgettable cycling holiday through the Moselle and Saar regions.

Returning to Koblenz

After disembarkation, you can easily travel back to Koblenz by train.

There are regular connections via Trier, making it convenient to return to your car or continue your onward journey.

Why Choose a Moselle & Saar Bike and Barge Holiday?

✔ Stay aboard the comfortable MS Switzerland
✔ Cycle through some of Germany’s most beautiful wine regions
✔ Visit historic towns including Koblenz, Cochem, Bernkastel-Kues, Trier and Saarburg
✔ Enjoy mostly flat cycling routes suitable for recreational cyclists
✔ Discover a new destination every day without having to move your luggage
✔ Combine an active cycling holiday with the comfort of a river cruise
✔ Experience Germany and Luxembourg by bicycle, ship and river

Frequently Asked Questions about the Moselle & Saar Bike and Barge tour

The trip lasts 8 days and 7 nights. You cycle approximately 225 kilometres in total, while staying aboard the MS Switzerland.

The route runs from Koblenz to Saarburg, following the Moselle and Saar regions through Germany and briefly into Luxembourg.

Highlights include Cochem, Beilstein, Bremm, Zell, Traben-Trarbach, Bernkastel-Kues, Piesport, Neumagen-Dhron, Trier and Wasserbillig.

Yes. The route is rated easy (★☆☆☆☆) and consists mainly of flat, paved cycle paths along the rivers.

The daily distances are approximately 26–48 kilometres, making the holiday particularly suitable for recreational cyclists and less experienced riders.

Major highlights include Cochem and its Reichsburg, the steep vineyards of Bremmer Calmont, Traben-Trarbach, Bernkastel-Kues, Roman Trier, the Moselle vineyards and the spectacular waterfall in Saarburg.

The 2026 departures listed on this page operate aboard MS Olympia, while the 2027 departures operate aboard MS Switzerland.

Please check the departure date and ship details when booking.

The package includes 7 nights aboard the ship, an outside cabin with private bathroom, full board, a welcome drink, daily cabin service, port and lock fees, route information, digital travel documents with GPS routes and a tour guide on board.

Yes. An 8-speed e-bike can be rented for a supplement.

Yes, this may be possible upon request and subject to limited capacity on board.

For e-bikes, the battery must be removable. Tandems and tricycles cannot be taken on board.