Snuggled along the scenic and winding Moselle River, the picture-pretty hamlet of Cochem in Western Germany has a population of just 5,000 inhabitants. It is Germany's second smallest district seat, which alludes to laid-back days and even more chill evenings.

Cochem is a prime yet understated stopover for many a river cruise, to include AmaWaterways – being the sterling way to sail – which takes travelers to a dozen big towns and little cities – all with their very own charms and quirks for leisurely but curated day trips and exhaustive explorations. Best of all, the once-price tour package already includes all the amenities and land tours, all within a single booking. No add-on costs whatsoever!

This Cochem trip was ideal for discerning river cruise junkies, as regardless of age, gender, mood, or even attitude, there were myriad of activities to choose from. While the active ones opted for bike tours, some friends chose to stay on the boat for their me-time. Others disembarked with no agenda in mind, perhaps to take a garden stroll, but we opted for a tour of the best of what Cochem had to offer. But mind you, not before our wine testing session.

But we are getting ahead of the story. The Cochem of today owes its eclectic yet Gothic style to Berlin merchant and esteemed citizen Louis Fréderic Jacques Ravené, who dramatically rebuilt the area based on his personal vision of romanticism.

Here are some spots you should visit on your stopover at Cochem:

Starting Line: Cochem Mosaic

A colorful war memorial, the Cochem Mosaic is the frequent meet-up point for many daytrippers – us included. This modern-style piece of art strategically occupies a staircase. It narrates the history of Cochem in a visual manner – from the Roman and Celtic settlements to the establishment of Villa Cochuma in the year 866 and its founding in 1332, plus significant landmarks, such as the magnificent castles, storied bridges and fabled buildings.