The Amazing Trains of Germany

By Stewart Creasey
11 August 2014
Explore Germany's trains on a holiday from Great Rail Journeys. From narrow-gauge railways to high-speed locomotives, Germany is a rail-lover's dream.
Read moreThe Award Winning Leader in Escorted Worldwide Rail Holidays
Enjoying an idyllic location in a wooded valley by the River Neckar, Heidelberg boasts one of the longest and richest histories of all German cities. In 1907 the remains of 'Heidelberg Man' were declared to be the oldest ever discovered in Europe, being at least 200,000 years old. Heidelberg developed largely as the capital of the Palatinate - a position it held for more than five hundred years. During this time a vast wealth and influence became apparent in the city. The castle was built to strengthen Heidelberg's defences, and its world-famous university was established and garnered an impressive reputation.
In the 16th century the city was sacked twice by French troops; the castle was damaged and left to decay as the Palatinate capital was moved to Mannheim. Having lost its position of prominence, Heidelberg was largely forgotten by the time the Romantics discovered it in the late 17th century. To these people, the wistful ruins of the castle only added to Heidelberg's charm. The city soon became the place for poets, writers and artists to be found, and it saw a massive increase in tourism as a result.
Heidelberg's Old Town
Steps were soon taken to preserve the magnificent,
historic Old Town, which has remained undisturbed to this day - it
even avoided damage in the Second World War. Having been admired by
tourists for centuries now, Heidelberg is one of Europe's
best-loved cities.
Discover two of Germany's most picturesque regions on this fantastic two-centre holiday. We explore the halftimbered villages and stunning peaks of the Harz Mountains by heritage railway before visiting the stunning Rhine Gorge, where the legendary Lorelei Rock still casts its spell.
… see more10 days from £1,315 pp
View tour details >Since the days of Lord Byron, the British have been visiting the Rhine, charmed by its riverside castles and vineyards. Our ship navigates the father of German rivers, visiting an array of Christmas Markets en-route.
… see more6 days from £825 pp
View tour details >With its idyllic location and romantic castle, Heidelberg has long been one of Germany's most popular destinations. Discover the city and its Christmas Market, before visiting Frankfurt's own world-famous Christmas Market.
… see more5 days
View tour details >Excellent destination. Fascinating cities and environment. Very well organised and led.
Well organised tour, with good balance between planned activities and free time, excellent hotel facilities, good food, and very comfortable rail and coach travel.