The old quarter is dominated by the late-Gothic imperial castle and is dotted with medieval squares and lovingly restored timber-framed houses – architectural gems typical of the Moselle region. But it is not only the fairytale buildings in and around Cochem that remind visitors of its 2,000-year legacy; the town's folk tales and wine traditions are also kept very much alive.

The 1,000 year old castle is Cochem's famous landmark. The historical mustard mill (Senfmühle), built around 1810, is the last one of its kind in Europe. Other places to see are the market square, the baroque town hall, the Martinsbrunnen (a feature of the town's historical water supply), St. Martin's Church, the former Capuchin monastery (now an arts centre) and sections of the old town walls including the town gates: Enderttor, Mäusetor and Balduinstor.

The Wine Museum in Senheim (18km from Cochem) features one of the largest private collections on the theme of wine (10,000 exhibits): accessories, glassware, interesting facts and curiosities. The arts centre (a former Capuchin monastery) has a programme of temporary exhibitions. The Senheim Sculpture Park (15km from Cochem) is an open-air exhibition integrated into the countryside.