Day 1 - London to Cologne
We depart St Pancras International by Eurostar for Brussels. Our journey continues by Thalys to Cologne for a three-night stay at the Hotel Euro Garden which is close to the Rhine, the city's magnificent cathedral and the Christmas Markets. (D)
Day 2 - Cologne's Chrsitmas Markets
You have a free day to enjoy the wonderfully festive atmosphere of Christmas time in Cologne. The city has six markets each with its own unique character offering a special selection of gifts, decorations, arts and crafts as well as traditional stalls selling sausages, wine and beer. Visit the wonderful floating market held on board one of the Rhine cruise ships, the medieval market at the Chocolate Museum with musicians, acrobats and craftsmen or the market in Roncalliplatz beneath the cathedral, which has the biggest Christmas tree in the Rhineland. Make sure you also take the time to discover Cologne, its elegant squares and beautiful Romanesque churches. (B)
Day 3 - Cruising the Rhine Gorge
We travel south by coach to St Goarshausen where we join one of the ships of KD Rhine Cruises for the scenic cruise along the Rhine past vine-covered hills and fairytale castles. Lunch on board is included. We leave the ship in the pretty town of Rüdesheim, where you have time to discover its excellent Christmas Market before we return to Cologne. The market in Rüdesheim includes around 120 stalls within the historic Old Town and the famous Drosselgasse. After exploring the quaint streets why not soak up the hospitable Rhineland atmosphere in one of the town's many taverns? (B,L)
Day 4 - To Brussels and London
We leave Cologne by train for Brussels. Here we join the connecting Eurostar service to St Pancras International. (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday
Hotel Euro Garden, Cologne
The 4-star Hotel Euro Garden is situated just a short walk from Cologne's main railway station and the Cathedral. The hotel benefits from a bar, lounge, and sauna. Room facilities include a telephone, television, hairdryer and a safe.
