Bonn & the Rhine in Flames

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Holiday Highlights

  • Stay in one convenient hotel in culture-rich Bonn
  • Ride up the Drachenfels on the cog railway
  • Visit to Schloss Drachenburg Villa
  • Time in historic cities of Bonn and Cologne
  • Ride on the iconic Schwebebahn suspension railway

Tour itinerary

A rail tour offers a great group getaway to many destinations in Europe. The holiday begins as soon as you board Eurostar - sit back and enjoy the journey with fellow travellers to your chosen Continental city. We have created a relaxing 5-day rail break to Bonn, a charming city straddling the Rhine. This is a perfect short group trip, especially for first time rail holidaymakers. Bonn is one of Germany’s oldest cities and has a rich history, including a period as the temporary capital of West Germany. Why not visit at the high point of the cultural calendar for the ‘Rhein in Flammen’ festival when you can expect great rail journeys, river cruises and fireworks!!

This itinerary can be taken anytime and whilst your trip may not coincide with the Rhein in Flammen festival, you can choose to visit during one of the many events being held to celebrate 250 years since Beethoven’s birth. Ideal for families or groups with a particular interest in music!

Day 1 – Travel to Bonn

Mid-morning Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels Midi to connect with an InterCity Express train to Cologne for another change to Bonn. Enjoy a 4-night stay at the InterCityHotel Bonn on a bed and breakfast basis, located adjacent to the station.

Day 2 – Drachenfels Cog Railway and a Tour of Schloss Drachenburg

Morning tram ride to Königswinter to ride up the Drachenfels hill ‘Dragon Rock’ on the famous cog railway. After lunch you head to Schloss Drachenburg. Here you will take a guided tour of this impressive 19th Century Villa. With its vaulted ceilings and intricately painted murals, this Villa is well worth a visit. Late afternoon tram ride back to Bonn.

Day 3 – ‘Rhein in Flammen’ Boat Cruise and Firework Display

Spend the morning and early afternoon exploring Bonn, famously known as the birthplace of Ludwig Van Beethoven. A visit to this world renowned composer’s house is a must. Late afternoon you will take a boat cruise along the majestic Rhine. During the cruise you will bear witness to the beautiful “Rhein In Flammen” firework display. Enjoy Europe’s largest river boat parade and marvel at the ever-changing kaleidoscope of lights erupting above the river as shimmering cascades of colour plunge into the romantic Rhine Valley.

Day 4 – Wuppertal’s Schwebebahn

Morning train to Wuppertal. Return trip on the Schwebebahn hanging railway, opened in 1901 and in almost continuous service above the city since. An integral part of the Wuppertal transport system, this train is made even more fascinating by the fact the wheels are on the roof! Continue to Cologne for lunchtime arrival and afternoon at leisure to visit the famous gothic Cathedral or explore the city. Early evening return to Bonn.

Day 5 – Return home to London

Mid-morning departure from Bonn for travel home on the same route as outward travel. Arrive in London late afternoon.

Selected Hotels

Intercity Hotel, Bonn

Please note - hotels can be subject to change

Price Includes

All rail travel as stated in standard class

Unlimited travel on local transport in Bonn city area

Excursions as detailed

Accommodation in a good quality hotel on a bed and breakfast basis

Price per person

Price available upon request

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