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Jungfrau Express & Treasures of the Rhine

 
4.3 stars(4 reviews)
You are viewing the 2026 itinerary. Select your departure year
20262027
Duration
10 days
From per person
£3,099 £2,799
Tour code
RJR26
Mobility Rating 2
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Explore the Rhine on a scenic cruise through the most breathtaking stretches of the river and a spectacular journey aboard the Jungfrau Express

Experience a journey aboard the luxurious MS Amadeus Cara as we leisurely cruise along the picturesque River Rhine, unveiling history, medieval charm and captivating landscapes.

Starting from Cologne, our cruise leads us south through the picturesque towns of Koblenz and Boppard, before we sail the breathtaking Rhine Gorge where sensational vistas unfold at every turn. We delve into Heidelberg on a guided tour and wander the winding alleys and half-timbered houses of Strasbourg.

The breathtaking landscapes continue after our cruise with a two-night stay in alpine Interlaken and a journey to the 'Top of Europe' on the sensational Jungfrau Express.

Unforgettable Experiences

Spending two nights in Interlaken
Spending two nights in Interlaken
Stay in this alpine wonderland, set between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and surrounded by majestic mountains and picturesque meadows. Wander through picturesque streets, savour Swiss cuisine and relax in the tranquil atmosphere.
Journeying on the Jungfrau Express
Journeying on the Jungfrau Express
Travel to the ‘Top of Europe’ on this iconic train through incredible alpine surroundings and, at the summit, experience jaw-dropping 360˚views of Switzerland’s iconic peaks and the Aletsch glacier from Europe’s highest train station.
Exploring the highlights of Cologne
Exploring the highlights of Cologne
Immerse yourself in the city’s streets, where history blends with modern life. Wander through cobblestone pathways to the famous Gothic cathedral, a timeless masterpiece with intricate details, soaring arches and stunningly designed windows.
Sailing through the Rhine Gorge
Sailing through the Rhine Gorge
Cruise this UNESCO World Heritage site where spellbinding castles emerge, verdant forests stretch as far as the eye can see and vineyard-clad slopes cascade down to the water's edge. We also drift by the dramatic Lorelei Rock, steeped in myth and legend.
Travelling on the Drachenfelsbahn
Travelling on the Drachenfelsbahn
Reach the summit of the majestic Drachenfels on the Drachenfels cog railway. A journey of unparalleled beauty, we wind gracefully up the rolling slopes as the panorama of the Rhine Valley gradually unfolds.
Uncovering Heidelberg’s historic gems
Uncovering Heidelberg’s historic gems
Visit the ‘Jewel of Germany’ on a guided tour, delving into the highlights of this picturesque riverside city as we stroll through the historic Altstadt and visit the imposing Heidelberg Castle, perched majestically atop the verdant hills overlooking the city.

What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1To Cologne where we board our luxurious ship

Your holiday begins this morning as we meet at London St Pancras before boarding the Eurostar to Cologne via Brussels. Arriving in Cologne late afternoon, the elegant MS Amadeus Cara awaits - our home for the duration of this enchanting cruise along the beautiful Rhine River.

Once on board, there's time to settle into your comfortable cabin and begin exploring the ship. After, we are greeted by the friendly crew with a welcome cocktail, the perfect way to begin the holiday.

Later this evening, we gather for our first dinner onboard. With a drinks package included each night of your cruise, you can unwind over a delicious meal as we begin our journey along one of Europe's most iconic waterways.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2Exploring Cologne

After breakfast, we enjoy a guided tour of Cologne. After admiring the Romanesque townhouses, we visit the city's impressive Gothic cathedral - the largest in northern Europe. The intricate spires and magnificent stained-glass windows of this UNESCO-listed landmark are captivating as we marvel at the grand architecture.

Later this morning, we set off on our first sail. Drifting upstream past Bonn, we begin to see the first signs of lush green hills, hinting at the landscapes to come. We enjoy lunch onboard while taking in the views and by late afternoon, we arrive in the charming town of Königswinter, where we journey on the historic Drachenfels railway.

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. Wonderful views across the Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany are revealed as we climb higher. We then head back to our cruise ship for dinner onboard.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY3Picturesque Koblenz and quaint Boppard

There's time at leisure this morning to explore Koblenz, once a Roman stronghold. We recommend strolling to Deutsches Eck at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers where you'll be surrounded by inspiring vistas including the mighty Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. We then begin sailing again after lunch, arriving in the picturesque town of Boppard later this afternoon.

In Boppard, there's free time for exploration before dinner this evening. As you wander the cobblestone streets you'll find the town's Roman legacy echoes through its architecture. Admire the half-timbered houses which lead to vineyards scattering the surrounding hills and discover well-preserved Roman fortifications, including the historic town walls and the Roman tower.

If you're up for a bit of adventure, take the chairlift up to the Vier Seen Blick, which translates to Four Lakes Viewpoint (payable locally). From here, you'll be enveloped with panoramic views of the Rhine Valley and the surrounding countryside.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY4Through the Rhine Gorge to Rüdesheim

The morning is spent leisurely onboard, sailing through river landscapes including a highlight of our cruising experience - the romantic Rhine gorge. This section of the Rhine is renowned for its spectacular views and the best place to witness them is from the top deck of our ship. The riverbanks plunge deeper here, and we wind around bends surrounded by endless miles of green vineyards, ancient castles, and picturesque riverside towns. As we sail, we hear the fascinating story of the legendary Lorelei Rock which soars almost 500 feet out of the water.

After lunch, we dock in Rüdesheim where we travel through steeped vineyards aboard a land train, arriving in the centre of this wine town. Here there's a choice of excursions. You may choose to savour the finest varieties at a local wine tasting, or alternatively, you could visit Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet and discover Europe's largest collection of finely tuned mechanical instruments.

After dinner this evening there's time to explore the town's cobbled streets at your own pace and see the half-timbered houses, quaint shops, and wine bars in the Drosselgasse alley.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY5Discovering Heidelberg and Speyer

This morning after breakfast, you can enjoy time to relax and make the most of the ship's facilities. You might choose to relax on the sun deck, taking in sweeping views as we make our way to the city of Mannheim. Alternatively, you can spend some time in the Amadeus Club, an area with a library, games and a bar, the ideal spot to unwind before an afternoon exploring. Arrivng in Mannheim, we journey by coach to Heidelberg for a guided tour. The picturesque university town is known for its Old Town and stunning riverfront which is perfect for a relaxing stroll. Our tour includes a visit to the magnificent ruined, red sandstone castle that towers over the city, providing amazing views of the surrounding forests, river, and cityscape.

Alternatively, you could stay on board and later, take in the sights of the historic German city of Speyer and its famous cathedral at leisure before dinner this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY6A scenic sail to Strasbourg

Today we enjoy a full day cruise to the French city of Strasbourg. Relax onboard as we pass diverse landscapes and natural beauty along the Rhine. We arrive in Strasbourg later this afternoon and after dinner, you can experience the city's unique character at leisure.

Sitting near the border, Strasbourg perfectly represents the blending of French and German cultures. The old town is well worth a visit, and here you'll discover timber-framed houses, cobbled streets, and the iconic cathedral, all creating a fairytale ambience.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY7The enchanting Black Forest or striking Strasbourg

After breakfast, you have a choice of two excursions. The first is a trip into the Black Forest to witness fairytale panoramas. Experience the beauty of Germany's largest nature park filled with rolling hills, picturesque villages and dense forests. As you explore this fairytale setting, you'll learn about the enchanting history and folklore of the region.

Alternatively, you could choose a city tour of Strasbourg. During the tour, you'll discover its history and admire its grand architecture, visiting the UNESCO-listed cathedral and the quaint La Petite France district. Following the excursion, we return to our ship for lunch.

The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to discover more of Strasbourg and you could join our coach into the old town. The picturesque capital of France's Alsace region offers an evening of history and culture, whether you choose to wander the charming streets or relax with a beverage at one of the inviting cafés or wine bars. This evening, we gather for the gala dinner, our final dinner onboard the ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner

Optional Excursions

DAY8Leaving the ship and heading to stunning Interlaken

Disembarking our ship this morning, we say goodbye to our wonderful crew and make our way by rail to the picturesque town of Interlaken, set between two idyllic Alpine lakes in Switzerland.

Our hotel is well located, allowing for a leisurely stroll through the historic streets. When the skies are clear, the view of the valley is incredible, offering a panoramic vista of the stunning Bernese Oberland.

As we settle into our hotel for the next two nights, you can explore the town at your leisure or simply relax and soak up our new incredible surroundings before dinner this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY9To the ‘Top of Europe’ on the Jungfrau Express

We enjoy a highlight of the holiday today, a journey to Jungfraujoch - Europe's highest station. Boarding the sensational Jungfrau Express at Kleine Scheidegg, the train winds its way up the mountain through breathtaking views of the alpine landscape.

As we keep climbing, the views get more spectacular the higher we go. When we reach Jungfraujoch, the vistas from the Sphinx viewing platform are awe-inspiring. At the top, we're close to the stunning Aletsch Glacier - a World Heritage wonder, which stretches as far as the eye can see.

We return to Interlaken via the scenic Swiss mountain village of Grindelwald, nestled in the green valley beneath the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains. You have time to stroll around and take in the traditional wooden chalets, incredible views and charming atmosphere of the village before dinner at our hotel this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY10Homeward bound

Throughout this holiday, the natural beauty along the Rhine has charmed us. From amazing views in Koblenz and Boppard to the fairytale scenes along the Rhine Gorge and renowned architecture in Heidelberg, Speyer and Strasbourg. We marvelled at the majestic alpine peaks in Interlaken, setting the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable journey aboard the Jungfrau Express.

After breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to incredible Interlaken. We head to the railway station and catch our train to London, where we say goodbye.

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.

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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

4.3 stars4.3 / 5 · 4 reviews

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

Paul

5 stars

Submitted 25 Oct 2025

It's a great experience, very well organised and escorted by knowledgeable people. Our only criticisms would be that some excursions from the ship started unnecessarily early, and the predominantly older clientele would have valued more time in bed or at breakfast; the other is that stunning as Interlaken is, our only full day was taken up with the train rides (the whole point, of course) and we would have willingly paid more for an extra day free there.

from Great Rail Journeys
Hi Paul, Thank you for your review. I'm delighted to hear that you had such an enjoyable time on tour with us and found it to be a well organised experience. I appreciate you taking the time to suggest how we can make improvements and I will forward your suggestions on to our Product Team. I do hope that we can welcome you on tour with us again soon. Best wishes, Richard
1 comment

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Sue Tyson

5 stars

Submitted 25 Oct 2025

A really wonderful trip, well organised throughout - excellent Cruise Director and Manager - both going over and above to accommodate individual/ group concerns + needs. Organised visits really interesting, boat very comfortable + meals of very high standard. For the demographic an earlier evening meal start time would be preferable.

from Great Rail Journeys
Hi Sue, Thank you for your review and for posting such stunning photos. I'm delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful holiday taking in a broad range of excursions, and that you enjoyed such exceptional service throughout your tour! I do hope that we can welcome you on tour again in the future! Best wishes, Richard
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Sue Tyson
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JANE C

4 stars

Submitted 13 Oct 2025

From leaving to arriving each step of your journey was planned and guided. The cruise was a 5 star experience , but I have marked it down because the hotel stop in Switzerland was not the four star experience advertised. You could not choose what you wanted for dinner and there was no option if you did not like the food offered. Which I hasten to add I would not even give to my dog. The hotel room was dirty and worn and with very little daylight as window was so small. Breakfast was limited in choice too. We ended up eating out and enjoyed some traditional Swiss meals in local restaurants. I would book holidays with the company again, because the travel support and transfers were well executed . Just a general note if you are younger than 50 this holiday may not be for you , age range was 70- 90 and on the cruise you were forced to sit with strangers during your meal , as a shy couple we found this a little overbearing when forced to make conversation , rather as full time working couple would love to have had the opportunity for downtime at evening meal to reconnect with each other.

from Great Rail Journeys
Hi Jane, Thank you for your review. I'm delighted to hear that you had an enjoyable time on board the Amadeus Imperial and that the travelling was a smooth experience. However, I'm sorry to hear that the Swiss element of your holiday may have fallen below the standards expected of a Great Rail Journeys holiday, and in particular that the dining experience at your hotel in Interlaken was a disappointment. We do value all feedback, therefore I have forwarded this to our Product Management Team. I do hope that we can have the opportunity to welcome you on tour with us again! Best wishes, Richard
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David Jobling

3 stars

Submitted 11 Oct 2025

Cruise on the ship was exellent, crew great,but excursions not so good. The visit to switzerland was poor from start to finish,we had to go by coach to interlaken, we did not have the half price card, out trip up the Harder Klum was expensive 72 swiss franks, food was average in hotel. Finally our homeward journey was long and crouded, with 6 trains and a bus trip in Paris of over 1.5hrs. We left our hotel in Interlaken before 8.20am and arived back at home in York at 11.45pm

from Great Rail Journeys
Hi David, Thank you for your review. I'm glad to hear that you were happy with the service that you received on board the Amadeus Imperial. However, it is disappointing that there were elements of your Swiss visit which fell short of your expectations and I will relay this feedback to our Product Team. Best wishes, Richard
1 comment

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