3 Nights in Cochem, or 2 Cochem / 1 Zell?
 

In September, my wife and I are in Cochem for 3 nights, followed by Trier for 2 nights. I wanted to spend some time in Zell, but it's three hours by boat, which for us is a bit too long. I see that the train does not stop in Zell. Is it worth taking a night away from Cochem to stay 1 night in Zell?

I spent 3 days in Bacharach, and did a day trip to Cochem. I enjoyed walking around, visiting the castle in Cochem, and know many others felt Burg Elz was great. However, I think 2 nights would be tops in Cochem and you should take the extra night to enjoy Zell.

We stayed 5 nights in Cochem, and made day trips to Trier, Luxembourg, Burg Elz, Koblenz, Beilstein.
We stayed also 2 night in Bacharach, and was by boat to St. Goar.

Some people like Zell, some think it looks a little "worn".

Take a look at Bernkastel-Kues. It is one of the more highly rated towns on that part of the Mosel.

Zell is worth a visit but I don't see the need to stay overnight.

Take the train to Bullay (about 7 min.)
Then take a walk or a bike ride (bikes available at Bullay train station) along the flat and easy river path to Zell (maybe 2 mi.) or catch a bus from Bullay to Zell (12 min.) Bullay and Alf (ferry across from Bullay) are good too, especially if you like walking - head up to the Marienburg lookout from Alf for a great view.

A good 1-hour boat ride from Cochem is to Beilstein - precious little town - frequent departures from Cochem.

Bernkastel is terrific. Take the train to Wittlich and the connecting Regional bus from there.

I think Cochem is pretty poor (tatty and onnly a few good restaurants) prefer BernKastel or Trab and Trabach. Suggest leave C alone completely