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The Rhine Valley in Flames & Moselle

 
4.4 stars(21 reviews)
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202520262027
Duration
8 days
From per person
£2,799 £2,599
Tour code
FRG26
Mobility Rating 1
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Experience the sensational annual Rhine in Flames display as part of the procession on a luxurious cruise along the Rhine and Moselle to explore historic towns and cities

Become part of the sensational Rhine in Flames spectacle during this luxury seven-night river cruise, from Strasbourg to Cologne. Explore charming Rüdesheim before enjoying the stunning firework display illuminating the beautiful Rhine Valley and its fairytale castles. Our ship, the luxurious Amadeus Cara, is decorated to be a part of the festival.

Continuing our journey, we discover Cochem's medieval charm, Bernkastel-Kues' vineyard-draped hillsides, and Trier's historic architecture. This holiday ends with panoramic vistas aboard the Drachenfels railway as we enjoy unforgettable views of the Rhine Valley. Join us and let the Rhine and Moselle be your guide to a spectacular cruise.

Unforgettable Experiences

Participating in the Rhine in Flames
Participating in the Rhine in Flames
Experience this incredible procession, an annual spectacle along the Rhine River where the night sky lights up with sensational fireworks and the river shimmers with reflections of vibrant colours.
Touring Trier
Touring Trier
Discover Trier - a UNESCO World Heritage site, with ancient Roman ruins occupying the same street corner as classic Baroque architecture and brightly coloured townhouses.
Exploring Rüdesheim
Exploring Rüdesheim
Discover this charming wine town and its famous Drosselgasse. While here, choose between a wine tasting excursion or a visit to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet.
Discovering Cochem
Discovering Cochem
Wander the well-preserved, historic charms of Cochem, crowned by the Reichsburg Castle, its skyline reflects a timeless elegance and cobblestone streets wind through timber-framed houses.
Visiting Bernkastel-Kues
Visiting Bernkastel-Kues
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the town’s medieval buildings, architecture, and serene ambience as you meander through lanes adorned with half-timbered houses and centuries-old façades.

Your Floating Hotel, MS Amadeus Cara

Fantastic Onboard Amenities
Fantastic Onboard Amenities
With nightly entertainment in the Panorama Bar, a fitness centre, massage facilities, a putting green, shuffleboard, giant chess, a sprawling Sun Deck, and chef-prepared meals included, each moment is filled with options.
Mouthwatering Cuisine
Mouthwatering Cuisine
Each meal is an event to remember during your cruise itinerary, with regionally inspired breakfast and lunch options, delicious four-course dinners accompanied by complimentary drinks, and a spectacular captain’s gala on the final evening.
Impeccable Service
Impeccable Service
As you drift along the Blue Danube, enjoy first-class service from a highly trained crew, each member on hand to answer your questions, top up your drinks, and ensure your comfort as you sail between destinations.
Comfortable Cabin Options
Comfortable Cabin Options
Whether it’s a Deluxe Suite on the Upper Deck, a Deluxe Stateroom on the Upper or Middle Decks, or a Classic Stateroom on the Lower Deck, every cabin is designed with your comfort in mind
Immersive Ports of Call
Immersive Ports of Call
Extraordinary destinations line the Danube River, and included shore excursions offer insight into the rich histories of Salzburg, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest, along with the stunning scenery of the Wachau Valley.

Discover more amazing experiences

Explore a world of incredible destinations and travel moments, from hidden gems to iconic sights.

The Rhine Valley in Flames

8-day holiday

Experience the sensational annual Rhine in Flames display as part of the procession on a luxurious cruise along the Rhine and Moselle to explore historic towns and cities

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What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1To Strasbourg where we board our ship

Your holiday begins as we meet at London St Pancras for our Eurostar journey to Paris. From here, we continue by rail to the elegant city of Strasbourg, known for its unique blend of French and German culture.

As we step aboard our cruise ship here, we're greeted by our wonderful crew with a cocktail, setting the tone for the incredible experiences to come. With a sense of excitement in the air, we settle into our cabins before enjoying our first dinner onboard.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2Alsatian charm in Colmar and Strasbourg

After breakfast onboard, there is a choice of excursions. The first is a sightseeing trip to Colmar, where you can spend an idyllic morning in this picturesque Alsatian town, with its fairytale charm. Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses and pretty flowers. Explore the historic Old Town's maze of narrow alleys, discover quaint cafes and local markets, and gaze at architectural landmarks like the Maison Pfister.

Alternatively, opt for a tour of Strasbourg, taking in the blend of French and German culture amidst picturesque cobblestone streets and enchanting canals. Wandering through its medieval alleys, marvel at the awe-inspiring architecture of the iconic Cathedral Notre Dame and explore the charming La Petite France district.

Whichever option you choose, there is free time in Strasbourg in the afternoon before set sail on our first cruise toward the enchanting town of Rüdesheim.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY3Experiencing Rüdesheim and the Rhine in Flames

This morning we sail into Rüdesheim, famous for its white wine, especially the dry Riesling variety. Stepping ashore, we travel through steeped vineyards aboard a land train, arriving in the centre of the renowned wine town. Here there is a choice of excursions, each promising an insight into the town.

You could experience for yourself why the town is famous for its wine with a tasting, savouring the finest local varieties. Alternatively, you could visit Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet and discover Europe's largest collection of finely tuned mechanical instruments. After your excursion, there is time at leisure to explore the town's cobbled streets at your own pace and see the half-timbered houses, quaint shops, and wine bars in the famous Drosselgasse alley.

Later this afternoon, we begin sailing to St Goar for the spectacular Rhine in Flames display. Arriving after dinner this evening, excitement builds as our ship is decorated with brilliant lights in preparation to be a part of the spectacle. The event is a stunning procession of illuminated boats, fireworks and music along the Rhine River.

We have the best seat in the house from our ship and we celebrate as the sky and river light up in a breathtaking display of colours and sounds that brings together locals and visitors alike. At the end of the procession, we sail to Koblenz where we dock for the night.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY4Cochem – the heart of the Moselle wine trade

This morning is spent cruising through the beautiful scenery of the Moselle river. You could enjoy a beverage as you step out onto the deck to witness the passing views as our ship continues its journey along the river. Sailing into the port of Cochem this afternoon, the stunning Moselle Valley surrounds us with rolling hills, traditional wooden houses and the majestic Reichsburg castle perched on top of a hill. The town itself is a maze of slender alleys adorned with pastel-coloured buildings, boutiques and wine cellars.

On a guided tour after lunch, we explore the Old Town, where we see well-preserved sections of the ancient walls and a former monastery that now houses a cultural centre. Following the tour, you can explore Cochem at your own pace before dinner this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY5A taste of Bernkastel-Kues

We enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Moselle Valley this morning as we continue our cruise. The town of Bernkastel-Kues unfolds as we moor here after lunch. The picturesque vineyards of the Valley climb up the hillsides, while half-timbered houses with blooming flowers add to the enchanting atmosphere. A sightseeing tour awaits us here.

Setting out with our knowledgeable guide, we visit the Old Town where the cobblestone streets are lined with traditional German buildings with half-timbered façades. We also experience the Market Square, a focal point of the town surrounded by colourful buildings. A highlight here is the St. Michael's Fountain, a Renaissance-style fountain adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. We also enjoy an included wine tasting to sample the local Bernkasteler Doctor speciality.

Following our afternoon of exploration, we reboard our ship for dinner and enjoy an evening cruise towards Trier.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY6The ancient city of Trier or fairytale Luxembourg

Waking to views of historic Trier, you have a choice between two excursions this morning. The first option is to explore Germany's oldest city with a local guide. The ancient streets are known for their Roman ruins, medieval buildings, and Baroque churches and we delve into this impressive history on our tour. We visit the immense Porta Nigra which guards the entrance to the north of the city, St Peter's Cathedral with its intricate stone carvings and stained glass windows, and the Church of Our Lady, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Alternatively, you could board the coach for an excursion to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. One of the smallest countries in the world, we discover the local history and attractions on a guided tour. The evening is spent on board, sailing back downstream along the meandering Moselle toward Koblenz.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY7The Drachenfels and Cologne

After a morning of relaxed cruising, we arrive in Königswinter where the Drachenfels railway awaits. This cog railway rises high into the forests, passing the fairytale Drachenfels castle - whose name translates as 'Dragon's Rock', inspiring many of the dragon-related legends still heard today. We experience wonderful views across the Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany as we climb higher.

Back on board later this afternoon, we continue our cruise through beautiful scenery toward Cologne. We celebrate the final evening of our cruise with a Gala dinner before approaching the striking city. From the deck, admire the cityscape of magnificent bridges that span the river and the imposing cathedral.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY8Homeward bound

After breakfast, it's time to disembark and say goodbye to our crew. We make our way to the railway station where we catch our train to London. Here, you can make your way home with memories of our cruise.

From Strasbourg's history to Rüdesheim's fairytale charm we immersed ourselves in fantastic culture. Cochem crowned the Moselle's beauty, while Bernkastel-Kues' quaint streets were a delight to discover. Exploring ancient Trier and the views aboard the Drachenfelsbahn will stay with us.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Departure times

Travel timings in your Holiday Confirmation are provisional and are subject to change. We will confirm your travel times in your final itinerary around 10-14 days before your departure. Eurostar or Flight times will be confirmed to you approximately 30-50 days before departure.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular holiday with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

Trains & Ships

More information on the different trains and ships that are used on this tour.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara Cabin DS | Great Rail Journeys
Deluxe Suites - Upper Deck

Travel in luxury and style when you choose one of our Deluxe Suites. Our largest en-suite cabins, at 26.4 square metres, a walk-out balcony, walk-in wardrobe an river-view lounge area.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara Cabin A1 | Great Rail Journeys
Deluxe Stateroom - Upper Deck

These en-suite cabins are stylish and impressively spacious at 17.5 squre metres, with a panoramic window balcony, walk-in wardrobe and seating area.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara Cabin B1 | Great Rail Journeys
Deluxe Stateroom - Middle Deck

These en-suite cabins are stylish and impressively spacious at 17.5 squre metres, with a panoramic window balcony, walk-in wardrobe and seating area.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara Cabin C1 | Great Rail Journeys
Classic Stateroom - Lower Deck

Our Classic Staterooms offer quality, and elegance with space to relax in comfort at the end of the day. And we recognise the importance of having somewhere inviting to retire to after an engaging day of cruising or excursions. These 16 square metre en-suite cabins offer a wide picture window and large walk-in wardrobe.

Find out more

Enhance your holiday

London Hotels

Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.

Read more

We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.

London hotels
UK rail connections

Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business - there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.

Read more

We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.

For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.

UK train tickets

Reviews

4.4 stars4.4 / 5 · 21 reviews

  1. 5 stars
    (10)
  2. 4 stars
    (9)
  3. 3 stars
    (2)
  4. 2 stars
    (0)
  5. 1 star
    (0)

Stubbs

5 stars

Submitted 8/Oct

We thoroughly enjoyed the cruise. Would recommend.

from Great Rail Journeys
Hi Mr Stubbs, Thank you for your review and for recommending Great Rail Journeys. I'm glad to hear that you had a thoroughly enjoyable river cruise! Best wishes, Richard
1 comment

Collected by Trustpilot

Rosalind Rawling

5 stars

Submitted 7/Oct

Excellent trip, with wonderful food, good company and helpful staff. And the fireworks were great!

from Great Rail Journeys
Hi Rosalind, Thank you for your review. I'm glad to hear that you had such an excellent cruise along the Rhine! Best wishes, Richard
1 comment

Collected by Trustpilot

Jules

5 stars

Submitted 4/Oct

What am amazing river cruise. Every member of staff was so helpful and friendly. The trips were always great fun and the River in Flames was a spectacle not to be missed! Ed and Demi, our cruise managers were great sports and always went the extra mile to ensure that everyone had a fabulous time. A lot of the staff were know to us from previous cruises on this ship which shows that they must be reasonable employers too which make me happy to book with them again. All in all another wonderful holiday with Great Rail.

from Great Rail Journeys
Hi Jules, Thank you for your review. I'm delighted to hear that you had such an enjoyable river cruise and got to enjoy some brilliant excursions along the Rhine. It is also great to see that Ed and Demi worked hard to ensure you had a brilliant time on board the Amadeus Imperial! We look forward to welcoming you on tour with us again in the future. Best wishes, Richard
1 comment

Collected by Trustpilot

Jules
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W Warwick

5 stars

Submitted 3/Oct

So glad we booked this trip .Every person we dealt with was most helpful from the moment we booked to the moment we returned. Our ship was even better than we imagined and the crew always friendly and attentive. The Rhine in Flames was fantastic. We have already recommended GRJ to friends.

from Great Rail Journeys
Hi Mr Warwick, Thank you for your review. I'm delighted to hear that your time on board exceeded your expectations, and that you had exceptional service throughout! Thank you for recommending Great Rail Journeys, and we hope to welcome you on tour again soon. Best wishes, Richard
1 comment

Collected by Trustpilot

Robert

5 stars

Submitted 2/Oct

My 1st cruise. Ship immaculate, food wonderful & tour management attentive & entertaining. Thank you Ed & Demi. Pure luxury & attention to detail.

from Great Rail Journeys
Hi Robert, Thank you for your review. I'm delighted to hear that your first experience of a river cruise was an enjoyable one! Best wishes, Richard
1 comment

Collected by Trustpilot

Y Martin

5 stars

Submitted 2/Oct

This holiday proved a fantastic experience. The ship was fantastic as were the staff, the food and the accommodation. The trips and visits were well organised and very interesting led by very knowledgeable guides.

from Great Rail Journeys
Hi there, Thank you for your review. I'm delighted to hear that your Rhine Valley in Flames & Moselle holiday was such a fantastic experience! Best wishes, Richard
1 comment

Collected by Trustpilot

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