A tour by rail to the vibrant city of Cologne offers the chance to see Robert Carsen’s production of The Ring at the Opera. The impressive cast includes Greer Grimsley, Evelyn Herlitzius, Mikhail Petrenko and Matti Salminen. A full sightseeing programme takes in some of the most notable attractions of this charming German region.


Mon 7 Jun Morning departure from London St Pancras on your European Rail journey to Cologne via Brussels. On arrival in Cologne, transfer to the 4-star Köln Marriott Hotel in the heart of the city. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel.

Tue 8 Jun This morning we embark upon a sightseeing tour of the city on foot. The highlight is of course the vast Gothic cathedral which dominates the skyline, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cathedral is full of treasures, including the Shrine of the Three Kings, a large gilded sarcophagus dating from the 13th century, and the Mailänder Madonna (Milan Madonna), dating from around 1290. Afternoon at leisure before transferring to the evening performance at the Opera.

Wed 9 Jun A free day to make your own independent exploration of the city. In the late afternoon transfer to the opera house for the second performance in the cycle.

Thu 10 Jun Today we take an excursion to the charming city of Bonn. 2000 years old, the city boasts cobbled streets in its Old Town, an imposing Town Hall and residential palaces which are now used as university buildings. We visit Beethoven’s birthplace which now serves as a museum dedicated to the great composer. Lunch is included in a local restaurant, after which we continue to the UNESCO site of Augustusberg Palace, with extensive baroque gardens. Return to Cologne for an evening at leisure.

Fri 11 Jun Day at leisure to sightsee or relax. Late afternoon transfer to the opera house for your third performance.

Sat 12 Jun Today we make a picturesque journey along the Rhine, setting for many stunning castles, vineyards and villages. We arrive at Marksburg Castle which sits above the town of Braubach, which is also the castle's original name, with a commanding view from the East bank of the Rhine river. Marksburg remains much as it was when it served its original function as the fortified residence of some of German history's more notable names. Lunch is included in the tour. We return to Cologne for an evening at leisure.

Sun 13 Jun This morning enjoy an hour-long panorama cruise along the city’s waterways, which will provide the best views of Cologne. Afternoon at leisure before your early evening performance at the opera.

Mon 14 Jun Morning at leisure for last-minute shopping and sightseeing. Afternoon transfer to the station for your homeward journey.

Rail: European Rail

Rail schedules are subject to alteration. Departures from regional UK rail stations can be arranged on request.