First Class all the way to Cologne

Great Rail Journeys, the UK’s market leader for escorted holidays by rail is highlighting its Cologne Premium tour as the ultimate way to enjoy the best Christmas Markets in Europe.

The four-day itinerary includes First Class rail travel, commencing with Eurostar’s Leisure Select service from St Pancras International to Brussels. Changing there to a high-speed Thalys train, guests arrive in Cologne in time for dinner at the extraordinary five-star Hotel im Wasserturm – the 19th century former water tower that is Great Rail Journeys’ chosen luxury hotel and base for three nights.

Day two is an opportunity to discover Cologne’s six different festive markets that fill the streets and squares around the Cathedral. They offer a multitude of present-buying opportunities, with good food and wine to sample from morning to evening, when the Christmas lights add an extra dimension to the visit.

Perhaps the highlight of the holiday is a full day Rhine excursion – lunch included – with a festive river cruise to Rudesheim, which boasts over 120 stalls at its market. Along the way, sights include the Lorelei Rock and hilltop castles, with Rudesheim’s cable car offering a bird’s eye view of the Rhine Gorge.

The first of a series of ten departures is on 27 November, with the last opportunity on 14 December. Depending on date, the cost is £598 or £648 per person, twin share, including breakfasts each day, the dinner and lunch described, plus food and drink during the Eurostar journeys. A Great Rail Journeys Tour Manager accompanies the group throughout.

For more information and bookings, visit GreatRail.com.