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Germany

Heidelberg

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.

 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.

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6 results matching: Escorted Rail Tours to Heidelberg

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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Cologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas Markets
German Christmas Markets of the Rhine
4.5 stars(138 reviews)
2025NovDec
2026NovDec

Feel the spirit of Christmas on this cruise along the beautiful Rhine. Discovering Germany at the most magical time of the year we stop at traditional Christmas markets along the way. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savour the flavours that define the season. On board, soak up the natural beauty of the...

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5 days from
£1,199 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Rhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine Gorge
Save £300pp
Treasures of the Rhine
4.8 stars(16 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026SepOct

This beautifully scenic, easy-paced cruise takes us to the amazing towns and cities of the River Rhine. Sailing by the most enchanting landscapes, discover historic Heidelberg and medieval Strasbourg along with the sensational vistas of the glorious Rhine Gorge. From Cologne, we sail south to explore the charming town of Koblenz, enjoy a guided...

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Save £300pp
8 days from
£2,099 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Harz Mountains & the Rhine GorgeHarz Mountains & the Rhine GorgeHarz Mountains & the Rhine GorgeHarz Mountains & the Rhine GorgeHarz Mountains & the Rhine Gorge
Harz Mountains & Rhine Gorge
4.3 stars(113 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

Embark on a voyage of discovery amid half-timbered towns, rolling mountains and gleaming rivers in some of Germany's most picturesque locations. Explore the medieval villages of Wernigerode, Quedlinburg and Goslar and journey to the peak of the Harz Mountains by historic narrow-gauge railway. Uncover the idyllic towns of Assmannshausen and St...

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9 days from
£1,899 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
CologneCologneCologneCologneCologne
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Glacier Express & Treasures of the Rhine
2025Sep
2026Sep

This scenic cruise along the River Rhine is a picturesque journey through captivating towns and cities. Glide past enchanting landscapes and explore the historical wonders of Heidelberg, the medieval charm of Strasbourg, and the breathtaking vistas of the Rhine Gorge. Starting from Cologne, our journey upstream leads us to the delightful town of...

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Save £300pp
11 days from
£4,099 pp £3,799 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Rhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine GorgeRhine Gorge
Save £300pp
Jungfrau Express & Treasures of the Rhine
2025SepOct
2026SepOct

Experience a journey aboard the luxurious Amadeus Imperial as we leisurely cruise along the picturesque River Rhine, indulging in the epitome of cruising excellence. Our enchanting voyage drifts through captivating landscapes, unveiling the rich tapestry of historic Heidelberg and the medieval charm of Strasbourg. We sail the breathtaking Rhine...

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10 days from
£3,199 pp £2,899 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
LucerneLucerneLucerneLucerneLucerne
Lucerne & Treasures of the Rhine

Every bend of the river and every ascent into the mountains unveils new treasures waiting to be discovered on this nine-day holiday. Enjoy a blend of luxurious relaxation and captivating exploration, from the historic streets of Cologne to the serene shores of Lake Lucerne. Step aboard the opulent Amadeus Imperial, our floating hotel on the...

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10 days
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Our customers love our Heidelberg tours
Treasures of the Rhine
02 Jun 2024
Pooler
5 stars
“It was first class. I have already submitted a very detailed review to Great Rail Journeys
Collected by Trustpilot
Harz Mountains & Rhine Gorge
26/Jun
Richard Griffith
4 stars
“This was a good holiday, exploring two contrasting areas of Germany. We loved the unspoilt medieval towns in the Harz area, and the peaceful and scenic Rhine Gorge. However, the rail trip to the Brocken was a huge disappointment, due to last minute cancellations, and having to use a crowded...
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German Christmas Markets of the Rhine
10/Jan
Rose
4 stars
“Me and my husband travelled as part of a group of four and we had a lovely time. The river boat was very clean and well appointed, the boat crew were incredibly courteous, helpful and fun, the food was consistently high quality and always a good choice. We very much enjoyed...
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Latest articles from our journey blog
Wrapped Up Warm: Packing Essentials for Your Winter Holiday in Europe

Wrapped Up Warm: Packing Essentials for Your Winter Holiday in Europe

24/08/2023 · By

Winter in Europe is a magical time, filled with Christmas markets, snow topped mountains, glaciers, and Glühwein. But winter holidays do require a little more thought when it comes to packing than summer holidays. T shirts and swimsuits are easy, but considering the temperatures and the equipment you might need to make the most of a winter holiday is a bit more in depth. To get the right ratio between having everything you need and packing light for travelling can be tricky, but never fear, here’s our handy guide to packing the essentials for a winter holiday in Europe.

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