We depart St Pancras International by Eurostar to Brussels. As we travel in Leisure Select Class, a complimentary meal and drinks are served at our seats. Our journey continues by Thalys to Cologne for a three night stay at the 5-star superior Hotel im Wasserturm, situated in a quiet location but only a short walk from the city's markets. (E,D)

After a relaxing start to the day you are free to explore the varied and wonderful festive markets of Cologne. Nearby you will find the Christmas Market at Neumarkt, Cologne's oldest market, with more than 100 wooden stalls. Rudolfplatz, also close to the hotel, has a fairytale theme and 60 stalls in front of the city's historic Hahnentorburg Gate. The Alter Markt market in the Old Town and the market beneath the spectacular cathedral are also within easy reach, offering lovely settings in which to sample the aromas and flavours of Advent in Germany. The marzipan and sugared almonds are extremely tempting and the sweet smell of glühwein warms any wintry day. (B)

For a wonderful contrast to Cologne's festive markets we make the journey into the scenic Rhine Valley by coach, where we meet a KD Rhine Cruises' ship in St Goarshausen. Travelling upstream past the Lorelei Rock of legend and unspoilt little villages nestled beneath vineyards and hilltop castles, we enjoy lunch on board before arriving in Rüdesheim. Here you have some free time to browse around the 120 stalls of the Christmas Market along the Drosselgasse and the quaint streets of the Old Town. A ride on the cable car up through the vineyards is also a must in good weather for a bird's eye view of the Rhine Gorge. We return to Cologne by coach, where your evening is at leisure. (B,L)

We leave Cologne by train for Brussels. Here we join the connecting Eurostar service to London. A complimentary meal and drinks are served at our seats before our arrival into St Pancras International. (B,E)

E = Eurostar meal, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday