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Germany

Cologne

Cologne was raised to a 'colony' (hence the name), with city status by the Romans in 50 AD, and was later absorbed into the Gallic Empire, becoming the capital from 260-271. The city was highly prized by both of these communities, due mainly to its location on the River Rhine, which placed it at the intersection of the major trade routes east and west, and was the basis of Cologne's growth. In addition to this, several saints were martyred in the city and the relics of the Three Magi were acquired from Milan. Cologne then also became a centre of ecclesiastical importance, as well as a pilgrimage centre, meaning the city continued to prosper in the middle ages as a result. Following a slight decline in the city's fortunes, Cologne experienced something of a renaissance in the 18th century with a recipe involving distilling flower blossoms in alcohol. This 'toilet water' achieved worldwide fame as eau de Cologne.

Although Cologne was badly damaged in the Second World War, the Cathedral survived, and extensive restoration work has since taken place throughout the city. In the modern age Cologne has reclaimed its old role as a major trade and business centre - now a radio and television metropolis, and a beer city, with over twenty breweries producing Kölsch, the distinctive local beer. Whilst in Cologne you really ought to visit the vast Cathedral. The foundation stone was laid in 1248, and it was finally completed in 1880. Called "the mother of all German churches", it is one of the largest Gothic structures ever built, and its size reflects its power - it is the seat of the Primate of Germany. The Cathedral was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1996, and today you can see the relics of the Three Magi, and climb the south tower for a spectacular view of the city and the Rhine.

Sightseeing in Cologne
 Cologne's Old Town, which has been carefully restored to preserve its pre-war appearance, is also a joy to discover. It spreads from just south of the Cathedral to the bank of the Rhine. Here you can admire the tall and narrow pastel-coloured houses, set out along the Old Town's winding streets, as you wander to the Rhine Promenade for a stroll along the river. There are many traditional brewery taverns close to the Old Town, all of which serve Kölsch beer - brewed only in Cologne. You may wish to visit at least one of these to sample the beer for yourself.

If you have the time to explore further, Cologne boasts an assemblage of both Roman and medieval remains that is unsurpassed in Germany. For example Eigelsteintor, one of the three surviving magnificent city gates, is a short distance north. The other gates, Severinstor and Hahnentor, are further afield but also worth a visit.

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22 results matching: Escorted Rail Tours to Cologne

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River CruiseRiver Cruise
BaselBaselBaselBaselBasel
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The Romantic Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel
4.4 stars(71 reviews)
2025MayJunJul
2026MayJunJul

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Romantic Rhine River from the North Sea to the Swiss Alps. As we cruise through France, Germany, and the Netherlands bound for Switzerland, we admire stunning forested valleys, charming half-timbered towns, and incredible cities along the enchanting riverbanks. Sail through the spectacular scenery of the...

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8 days from
£2,199 pp
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ClassicClassic
Zell am SeeZell am SeeZell am SeeZell am SeeZell am See
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All Inclusive Austria: Alps, Salzburg & Lake Zell
4.1 stars(187 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct

Explore the beautiful towns and landscapes of the Austrian Alps based in an all-inclusive hotel in St Johann, where dinner and drinks are included each evening. Marvel at views of Austria's tallest mountain on a journey across the Grossglockner High Alpine Road and discover Mozart's hometown of Salzburg with a singing tour guide. Travel through...

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9 days from
£1,999 pp £1,849 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Rhine ValleyRhine ValleyRhine ValleyRhine ValleyRhine Valley
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All Inclusive Rhine Valley & Vulkan Express
4.0 stars(26 reviews)
2025MayJunAugSep

Enjoy an all-inclusive holiday in one of Europe's great regions, the UNESCO-listed Rhine Valley. From a base in the picturesque town of Boppard set beside Germany's Rhine River, set sail for scenic cruise into the picturesque Rhine Gorge. Discover the area's legends while admiring magical views of clifftop castles and lush vineyards. Uncover...

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7 days from
£1,299 pp £1,149 pp
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BudapestBudapestBudapestBudapestBudapest
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Delights of the Danube: Budapest to Passau
4.3 stars(96 reviews)
2025JunJulAug
2026JunJulAugSep

Join us on a luxurious and enchanting cruise on the Danube River. Along the way, we journey through picturesque cities, quaint villages, and renowned vineyards with the chance to indulge in local cuisine and sample some of the finest local wines. After exploring the fascinating cities of Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna, marvel at the delightful...

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11 days from
£2,999 pp
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Glacier Express & St MoritzGlacier Express & St MoritzGlacier Express & St MoritzGlacier Express & St MoritzGlacier Express & St Moritz
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First Class Glacier Express, Zermatt & Matterhorn
4.0 stars(137 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
2026JunJulAugSepOct

Astonishing mountains and serene alpine lakes provide the extraordinary setting for this incredible holiday as we travel in First Class all the way, including on the iconic Bernina Express and Glacier Express. Stylish St Moritz and tranquil Zermatt provide idyllic bases for exploring the jaw-dropping Swiss Alps. Admire the captivating Palü...

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9 days from
£3,149 pp £2,999 pp
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BudapestBudapestBudapestBudapestBudapest
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The Beautiful Blue Danube: Passau Round Trip
4.6 stars(51 reviews)
2025JunAug
2026JunJulAug

Enjoy leisurely cruising through four countries and three capital cities, with plenty of time to admire the delightful river scenery. Experience the enchanting town of Dürnstein, where time seems to stand still with its cobbled streets and charming architecture. We admire the dramatically located Abbey of Melk, perched majestically on the...

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9 days from
£1,999 pp
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Wachau ValleyWachau ValleyWachau ValleyWachau ValleyWachau Valley
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The Beautiful Blue Danube: Passau Round Trip - Fly
4.6 stars(63 reviews)
2025JunAug
2026JunJulAug

Experience the convenience of direct flights to and from Munich with our 8-Day Danube river cruise. This effortless itinerary offers the perfect introduction to the must-see highlights of the Danube. Enjoy leisurely cruising through four countries and three capital cities, with plenty of time to admire the delightful river scenery. Discover the...

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8 days from
£1,899 pp £1,599 pp
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Danube RiverDanube RiverDanube RiverDanube RiverDanube River
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The Classic Blue Danube: Passau to Budapest
4.5 stars(26 reviews)
2025JunJul
2026JunJulAug

Embark on a mesmerising journey down the classic blue Danube, where each bend in the river reveals a new tapestry of historic cities, architectural wonders, and cultural richness. We delve into the rich history of the Ottoman and Habsburg empires and wander among inspiring architecture in Budapest. From the picturesque town of Linz to glorious...

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11 days from
£3,099 pp
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Rhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine Gorge
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The Majestic Rhine: Basel to Amsterdam
4.5 stars(208 reviews)
2025MayJunJul
2026MayJunJul

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Europe on this Rhine river cruise from Switzerland to Amsterdam. Experience the spectacular scenery of the majestic Rhine river, including the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with stunning castles, lush forests, and sprawling vineyards. Sail from Switzerland to the waters of...

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Grand Alpine ExplorerGrand Alpine ExplorerGrand Alpine ExplorerGrand Alpine ExplorerGrand Alpine Explorer
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First-Class Grand Alpine Explorer
4.4 stars(41 reviews)
2025JunJulAugSep
2026AprMayJunJulAugSep

Bask in boundless displays of jaw-dropping views on a spectacular First Class holiday through the Alps. Soak up the atmosphere of historic Munich on a beer tour, marvel at the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle and indulge in a sublime Mozart concert dinner in Salzburg after a tour with a singing guide. Enjoy a cruise in the Austrian Lake District...

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14 days from
£4,549 pp £4,399 pp
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The Harz MountainsThe Harz MountainsThe Harz MountainsThe Harz MountainsThe Harz Mountains
The Harz Mountains in Winter
4.6 stars(78 reviews)
2026JanFeb

Join us on a magical winter journey amongst the scenic valleys and mountain peaks of Germany's Harz Mountains. Travel on two heritage steam trains, including the Brocken Railway, and discover World Heritage towns with medieval architecture and cobbled lanes. Our base is Wernigerode, a town with timber-framed buildings and a fairytale castle,...

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7 days from
£1,699 pp
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
AmsterdamAmsterdamAmsterdamAmsterdamAmsterdam
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The Romantic Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel - Fly
2025MayJunJul
2026MayJunJul

Fly to Amsterdam to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Netherlands to Switzerland on a luxury river cruise. Sail through four countries, admiring stunning forested valleys, charming half-timbered towns and historic cities lining this incredible river's picturesque banks before returning by air from Zürich. Marvel at the spectacular scenery...

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8 days from
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Our customers love our Cologne tours
The Harz Mountains in Winter
8/Mar
Hugh Pead
5 stars
“A very enjoyable trip led by a very knowledgeable guide.
Collected by Trustpilot
Interlaken & the Jungfrau Express in Winter
27/Feb
Martyn Leedham
5 stars
“Splendid holiday, well organised and friendly helpful tour manager Andrew
Collected by Trustpilot
Classic Glacier Express at Christmas
8/Jan
Edwin Dayment
5 stars
“what an amazing train journey, thanks!
Collected by Trustpilot
Interlaken & the Jungfrau Express at Christmas
7/Jan
Rosemary
5 stars
“An thoroughly enjoyable trip - the journey , itinerary ,hotels and Tour Manager.
Collected by Trustpilot
All Inclusive Rhine Valley & Vulkan Express
15 Nov 2024
B Atkinson
5 stars
“Hotel and meal options were good Enjoyed the independent roaming useing the travel pass
Collected by Trustpilot
The Majestic Rhine: Basel to Amsterdam
11 Nov 2024
F Poplar
5 stars
“Very well organised, interesting trips and excursions, fabulous food, friendly staff.
Collected by Trustpilot
First Class Glacier Express, Zermatt & Matterhorn
24 Oct 2024
Rob Hewes
5 stars
“Excellent itinerary, and very well lead by our guide. Just a shame that one trip was cancelled due to line damage, and another due to poor weather.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Beautiful Blue Danube: Passau Round Trip - Fly
27 Sep 2024
Martin Sharples
5 stars
“A good mix of excursions and river cruising on a very good vessel. Amadeus crew and food were excellent. If I wanted to be picky I'd say that the contract staff meeting us at the airport were poor and gave incorrect information. It would also be better if GRJ had...
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The Classic Blue Danube: Passau to Budapest
11 Sep 2024
John Hopper
5 stars
“We were impressed with the cruise organisation, with information details and choice of tours. The crew and tour leaders created a very relaxed atmosphere. The evening entertainments – quizzes, folk dancing and singing and the Vienna Philharmonic quartet were all very enjoyable. The evening cruise along the Danube from Budapest...
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