Itinerary - 6 Night Holiday by Rail

Days 1 and 2

Cologne

Travel by Eurostar from London to Brussels which takes 1 hour 51 minutes. Once in Brussels transfer onto the High Speed service to Cologne which takes 1 hour 47 minutes. On arrival in Cologne check-in at the Art'Otel Cologne for a 2 night stay.

Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany and despite heavy bombing during the Second World War; it still has a rich historical core as well as world-renowned museums and an active art scene. The most well-known landmark is the gothic cathedral, one of the largest churches in the world, which was completed in 1880 after 600 years’ work.

See one of the most important collections of modern art in Europe at the Museum Ludwig, discover the home of Eau de Cologne at the Fragrance Museum or try a few samples at the Chocolate museum. Alternatively, enjoy a German beer in the beautifully reconstructed old town or take some time out in one of the many parks scattered across the city.

Day 3

Cologne to Mannheim - The Rhine Valley by Train

After breakfast take the scenic train along the Rhine Valley from Cologne to Mannheim in southwest Germany. Sit back and relax as the train travels along the one of the most beautiful waterways in the world, with views over sweeping vineyards, picture perfect villages and hill top castles. Look out for the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress near Koblenz, and the Marksburg, Stahleck, Katz and Maus Castles. The highlight is the view over the picturesque Pfalz Castle on an island in middle of the river.

On arrival in Mannheim check-in at the Holiday Inn Mannheim City Center for a 2 night stay.

Day 4

Mannheim

Situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar Rivers, Mannheim has an unusual grid layout more often seen in North America. This design, first plotted in 1606, has given the city its nickname of “die Quadratestadt” - the city of squares.

Head to Friedrichsplatz to see the landmark water tower and some of the finest Art Nouveau architecture in Europe. Shop until you drop in 'Planken', the city's liveliest shopping street. Visit the Electoral Palace, the largest self-contained Baroque palace in Germany. Alternatively, take a boat out on the lake at the beautiful Luisenpark.

Days 5 and 6

Basel

After breakfast take the train from Mannheim to Basel. On arrival in Basel check-in at the Swissotel Le Plaza Basel for a 2 night stay.

Spanning three national borders, Basel truly is a cosmopolitan city and is one of the cultural centres of Europe. As well as a wealth of galleries and an annual art festival, the city boasts almost forty museums and twenty-five theatres, among them the Fondation Beyer and the renowned Stadtcasino concert hall. There is also a huge range of restaurants and bars as well as some excellent shopping.

Climb one of the towers of the famous red sandstone Münster for panoramic views of the city and the banks of the Rhine. Or why not spend an evening exploring the winding streets of the pretty old town? You may even spot a famous local tennis player, Roger Federer!

Day 7

Basel to London

Enjoy breakfast in the hotel and spend the morning exploring more of this cosmopolitan city. After lunch, take the TGV train from Basel to Paris and then the Eurostar from Paris to London.