The city's landmark, the Reichsburg Cochem(Imperial Castle), visible from afar, is a true inspiration for all generations. Perched on a steep hilltop above the city, its architecture looks spectacular – as if it was drawn by Walt Disney. Inside, there is a colourful mix of styles from different centuries that encourages you to dream of more adventurous times. There are special ghost tours for children which take them through the castle and offer a moderate scare factor.

The 850-year-old, never-conquered Eltz Castle, which once adorned the 500 DM note, is located in the Eifel a few scenic kilometres away from the banks of the Mosel in Cochem. Although it does not offer separate children's activities, it is a worthwhile family experience. In actual fact, the castle tours through the full splendour of the Middle Ages not only reveal amazing artistic and architectural achievements, they are also an exciting and humorous excursion into German cultural history.

An equally beautiful view of Cochem and the Mosel as the one enjoyed from the Imperial Castle is on offer at Pinner Kreuz. There is indeed a cross on the hilltop above the town – with a sad story behind it, as the cross was erected in memory of a shepherd who died trying to save one of his stray animals. You don't have to climb the steep mountain flanks on foot to reach the vantage point – a comfortable chairlift is a much more family-friendly option.

At Cochem, it's not just about going up the mountain but into it too... with a shuttle bus and to one of the once best-kept secrets in the whole country, namely the former bunker of the Bundesbank. It has been a museum since 2016. A visit is an experience that offers the Eureka effect, especially in the summer heat... as it's only 12 degrees in the bunker, a jumper is always an appropriate part of any outfit.

The world of money is of course less interesting for the little ones – but the pram tours through and around Cochem are more interesting, as there’s lots to see there. Three different routes of different lengths have been set up especially for young families. Playgrounds entice the children along the way, while wonderful views are on offer for the adults.

The Cochem adventure swimming pool is on the route of these tours. The Moselbad has its own children's area with a light-flooded dome. Here, the baby pool, heat meadow and whirlpool guarantee some fun in the water for everyone. A wave machine in another area of the Moselbad gives swimmers a real sea feeling. Families can get close to the water in an even more turbulent way at the Klotti Wildlife and Leisure Park in nearby Klotten. The steepest white-water ride in Rhineland-Palatinate and an inflatable water slide are among the many attractions that can fill an entire day of your holiday.