Floriade & the Bavarian Garden Show 2012 

We depart St Pancras International by Eurostar to Brussels. On arrival in the Belgian capital we change trains, continuing by high-speed train to Cologne, and onwards to Nuremberg. Here we stay for five nights at the 4-star Maritim Hotel, situated close to the historic Old Town. We dine together in the hotel this evening. (D)

This morning we enjoy a guided walking tour of Nuremberg's picturesque Old Town, followed by some free time to explore independently. Attractive sights include the Imperial Castle, towering over the quaint half-timbered houses and Gothic churches surrounding it, as well as the lively market square, Hauptmarkt. This is dominated by the beautiful Frauenkirche Church and the Gothic fountain Schöner Brunnen. Other options include the Toy Museum and the Alstadthof, a wonderful courtyard dating back to the 1700s, where you can sample the region's famous Franconian wines. (B)

This morning we travel by train to beautiful Bamberg, situated on the River Regnitz, which is the host city for the Bavarian State Garden Show in 2012. Bamberg comes alive for the show, with a number of different exhibits located across the city, as well as a main site which features a Pyramid Meadow and a Patchwork Garden. During our time in Bamberg, take the opportunity to explore the beautiful city itself. Wandering through the narrow winding lanes and pretty half-timbered houses of the gorgeous Old Town, you will soon discover why it has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. You should visit 'Little Venice', a collection of 19th century fishermen's houses located on the banks of the river. Perhaps sample a local brew at one of Bamberg's many famous brewery taverns, making sure you try the local speciality, 'Rauchbier' - smoked beer! We return to Nuremberg by rail after a full-day in Bamberg. (B,D)

Today you are free to explore Nuremberg at leisure, with a huge number of options available. You could visit the Kaiserburg, the famous castle built on a rock in the north of the city. The imperial castle is the former residence of Holy Roman Emperors. Nuremberg is also home to the German National Railway Museum, with a fascinating collection of exhibits to experience. You can also visit the former Nuremberg Rally grounds, part of which now houses a thought-provoking permanent exhibition on Nuremberg's role in the Nazi era. (B)

This morning we travel by coach to the town of Bayreuth, best known for its association with the composer Richard Wagner, who lived here for the final 11 years of his life. We enjoy a guided walking tour through the historic Hermitage Court Gardens, which include an Orangery, grottoes, the Old Palace and fountain displays. This afternoon we enjoy a journey on the Franconian Switzerland Heritage Railway. The fascinating restored railway runs from Ebermannstadt to Behringersmühle, operating either a steam or diesel service. (B,D)

Today we leave Nuremberg and travel by train to the charming city of Cologne, one of Great Rail Journeys' favourite destinations. On arrival in Cologne we walk the short distance from the station to the 4-star Grand City Hotel Cologne Centre, our base for the final two nights of the holiday. You are free to explore Cologne at leisure this afternoon. Cologne is Germany's fourth largest city and one of the oldest, having been founded by the Romans in 38BC. It boasts many museums and Romanesque churches, and also a pleasant Old Town between the Alter Markt and the River Rhine. Whilst in Cologne you really ought to visit the vast Gothic Cathedral. The foundation stone was laid in 1248, and it was finally completed in 1880. Called "the mother of all German churches", it is one of the largest Gothic structures ever built, and its size reflects its power - it is the seat of the Primate of Germany. The Cathedral was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1996, and today you can see the relics of the Three Magi and climb the south tower for a spectacular view of the city and the Rhine. (B,D)

Today we travel by coach across the border into the Netherlands to enjoy a day at Floriade, the World Horticultural Expo. Floriade is a special event, which takes place every 10 years and will be held in 2012 in the Dutch town of Venlo, just across the border with Germany. Floriade is a fantastic show of the world's most exceptional, exciting and exquisite flowers, plants and trees. Gardens and displays from all over the world feature at the world's biggest and most celebrated horticultural exhibition. We spend a full day at the show before returning to Cologne by coach. (B,D)

We depart Cologne today, travelling by train to Brussels. Here we join the Eurostar service for London, arriving at St Pancras International. (B)

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
Where shown, these meals, are included in the price of your holiday

Once every 10 years, somewhere in the Netherlands, a town is transformed into a fabulous festival of flowers. Floriade is the World Horticultural Expo and takes place in 2012 in the Dutch town of Venlo. Floriade is not only the world's ultimate fl ower show - spread over 5 themed zones across an enormous 66 hectares - it is also a celebration of plants, vegetables, fruit and produce. Gardeners from all over the world offer you the opportunity to enjoy the most exquisite and exceptional examples of horticulture found anywhere on Earth.