Germany's enviable reputation for good design, efficiency, and common sense is demonstrated most effectively by the country's modern rail network. Since the punctuality and reliability of train services is virtually guaranteed and the passenger rail network seemingly covers every inch of the country, there is no more convenient and comfortable way to experience Germany's many highlights than with a bespoke holiday itinerary from GRJ independent.
Berlin, Germany's laid-back yet innovative capital city, is a tantalising mix of the modern and the historical. As you explore, you'll discover iconic landmarks such as the Berlin Wall, Reichstag Building, Brandenburg Gate, and Checkpoint Charlie. History aside, Berlin's primary aim seems to be the encouragement of hedonism.
Whatever makes you happy, whether admiring fine architecture or artworks, sampling some of the fine beers for which Germany is famous, enjoying the best classical or contemporary entertainments or bargain hunting in an eclectic selection of colourful street markets, you can rely on Berlin to indulge you.
Browse our range of sample itineraries below and then tailor your experience to incorporate your favourite excursions and hotels, allowing you to create your own unique German rail holiday - you can even select the class of your rail and/or air journeys, and the scope of your rail tour of Germany can be as wide or as narrow as you like.
Explore the once-divided German capital, home to some of Europe's most recognisable landmarks and over sixty Christmas Markets, each with their own theme and differing selections of crafts and produce.
… see more4 days from £525 pp
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The refined majesty of Germany's illustrious cities is on full display on this 10-day tour. Uncover the ever-changing face of the German capital Berlin, along with the wealth of iconic sights on offer here including the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag and the remains of the Berlin Wall. Venture to the economic powerhouse of Germany in the city of Munich, a modern metropolis with its dazzling mix of contemporary and historical architecture. Immerse yourself in Germany history with stays in Nuremberg and Freiberg, famous for Kaiserburg Fortress and an impressive viticulture respectively. Explore all this your way with Great Rail Journeys Independent's Grand tour of Germany.
… see more10 days from £1,095 pp
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Discover the imperial cities of Europe, forged by centuries of architectural, historical and artistic influence and each with their own immense cultural heritage. Explore the streets of enigmatic Berlin, venerable Prague and grand Budapest on this majestic adventure into the heart of Europe.
… see more12 days from £1,475 pp
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Explore Germany's vibrant capital from your base in the heart of Berlin, before embarking on the iconic Venice-Simplon-Orient Express as you make your way home.
Experience the wonderful extravagance of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express as you travel through outstanding countryside and glittering cities.
We have a magnificent selection of iconic routes that you can explore on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
Enjoy a range of exciting journeys and claim €200 in on-board credit* on selected routes to truly add that finishing touch to an already exquisite trip.
*Offer valid on selected 2019 routes only, based on twin cabin share
5 days from £2,445 pp
View holiday details >The ease of reaching one destination from another might encourage you to broaden your rail tour of Germany to include further cities; cosmopolitan Munich offers plenty to see and do and provides the perfect base from which to explore beautiful Bavaria, an area of Germany famed for its forests, lakes, and fairy-tale castles as well as the stunning Bavarian Alps.
Cologne, notable for its magnificent twin-spired cathedral, is a history book brought to life and an unmissable destination if you appreciate architecture which encompasses almost every style from Roman times to the modern day. Alternatively, you might like to escape the city for a while and enjoy a little of Germany's abundant natural beauty.
Few regions showcase this quite as effectively as the stunning Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can swap the train for a boat and gently cruise along the Rhine, to admire spectacular views and discover some of Germany's traditional winemaking villages along this stretch of the river.
Germany's many important historic sites, scenic countryside and historically and culturally rich cities, combined with perhaps the most efficient railways in Europe, ensure that the travelling aspects of your independent rail tour are as memorable as the destinations they'll lead you to.
