Germany

31 tours from £329pp

If you’re looking for a holiday packed full of history and heritage, the warmest of locals and a delicious selection of both Bratwurst and beer, then let us introduce you to the very best of Germany. This iconic country is famous for many things, like its large and leading economy, rich culture, and phenomenal foods – though its scenic beauty and grand architecture are what make this destination so spectacular. World-famous castles such as the fairytale-esque Neuschwanstein Castle, built by order of King Louis II, and the impressive Heidelberg Castle are guaranteed to take your breath away. Discover Germany on a festive break to explore its renowned Christmas markets and enjoy long-standing traditions, or take it on in summertime to see the stunning lakes and deep forests of beautiful Bavaria. Why not indulge in the stunning medieval architecture of Rothenburg ob der Tauber along the ever-popular Romantic Road, immerse yourself in UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Gothic Cologne Cathedral, or taste the incredible wines of the Rüdesheim am Rhein region? Browse our many fascinating tours to begin your Germanic journey today. 

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Autumn Highlights along the Rhine and Moselle
Save up to £100 per person on your river cruise
The Signature Collection The Signature Collection

Meander through the stunning Rhine and Moselle valleys as sensational destinations including Cochem, Koblenz and Cologne come to you.

  • 7 nights cruising on a full-board basis
  • 1 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • Services onboard the ship of a Cruise Director & Manager
  • Welcome drink and Captain's Gala Dinner
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi
  • Local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
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Relax in the lovely town of Valkenburg and enjoy excursions to the wonderful towns and cities of Aachen, Monschau and Maastricht.

  • 4 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • 3 evening meals
  • Local joining points
  • Porterage at the hotel

Departures:

  • 2024
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Join us on a wonderful journey of discovery to Baden-Württemberg in southern Germany and the captivating region of Bavaria.

  • 6 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • 4 evening meals
  • Free selected beer, wine & soft drinks between 6:00pm to 10:00pm in Langenau
  • Local joining points
  • Porterage at the hotel

Departures:

  • 2024
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Join us as we explore this beautiful part of Germany, as we combine cruises on four rivers with tranquil wine villages and dramatic scenery.

  • 6 nights hotel with 6 continental breakfasts
  • 4 evening meals
  • Local joining points
  • Porterage at the hotel

Departures:

  • 2024
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Take in the beautiful woodland scenery, fresh air and charming towns and villages of Germany’s famous Black Forest.

  • 6 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • 4 evening meals
  • Local joining points
  • Free selected beer, wine & soft drinks between 8:30pm and 10:30pm
  • Porterage at the hotel

Departures:

  • 2024
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Come with us as we discover the delights of Germany’s Christmas markets during this exciting holiday!

  • 4 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • 3 evening meals
  • Porterage at hotel
  • Free local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
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Visit two of Germany’s most popular Christmas markets on our Düsseldorf and Cologne Christmas Markets break. Enjoy your stay in a 4-star hotel.

  • 3 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • Convenient local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
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Taking in iconic destinations in Germany, France and Switzerland, this cruise along the mighty Rhine will be one to remember.

  • 7 nights cruising on a full-board basis
  • 1 night hotel
  • Services onboard the ship of a Cruise Director & Manager
  • Welcome drink and Captain's Gala Dinner
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi
  • Local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
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This tour combines the delights of Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands' Christmas Markets with lovely visits to Liege, Valkenburg and Aachen.

  • 4 nights accommodation with continental breakfast
  • Visits to the Liege, Valkenburg & Aachen Christmas markets
  • Local departure by coach or Home Connect service
  • Convenient local joining points

Departures:

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Combine the great cities of the German Rhineland and explore the famous Christmas markets of Bonn, Düsseldorf and Cologne.

  • 4 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • Convenient local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
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Uncover the spectacular scenery and incredible sights of three rivers – the Rhine, Main, and famous ‘Blue Danube’ – on this river cruise.

  • 11 nights cruising on a full-board basis
  • 2 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • Services onboard the ship of a Cruise Director & Manager
  • Welcome drink and Captain's Gala Dinner
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi
  • Local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
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Enjoy a winter escape in captivating Germany, soaking up the snow-dusted scenery and discovering some of the country’s finest castles.

  • 6 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • 4 evening meals
  • 4 packed lunches
  • Drinks inclusive between 18:30 - 22:30
  • Porterage at the hotel
  • Local joining points

Departures:

  • 2025
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Set sail on a magical festive cruise as you meander along the idyllic waters of the Rhine and explore Europe's magical Christmas markets.

  • 3 nights cruising on a full-board basis
  • Services onboard the ship of a Cruise Director & Manager
  • Welcome drink and Captain's Gala Dinner
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi
  • Local joining points

Departures:

  • 2025
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With fairy tale castles, rolling vineyards and picturesque villages, it's easy to see why the Rhine Valley is such a popular destination!

  • 6 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • 4 evening meals
  • Local joining points
  • Porterage at the hotel

Departures:

  • 2024
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Set sail on an awe-inspiring cruise down the Rhine towards the Moselle, uncovering the delights of Germany’s remarkable cities along the way.

  • 8 nights cruising on a full-board basis
  • 1 night hotel on bed and breakfast basis
  • Services onboard the ship of a Cruise Director & Manager
  • Welcome drink and Captain's Gala Dinner
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi
  • Local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
    • Jan
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  • 2025
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Get into the festive spirit early as we cruise along this mighty Rhine on this memorable tour, visiting Rüdesheim, Cologne and Koblenz.

  • 4 nights cruising on a full-board basis
  • Services onboard the ship of a Cruise Director & Manager
  • Welcome drink and Captain's Gala Dinner
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi
  • Local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
    • Jan
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  • 2025
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Make it a Christmas to remember as you enjoy a ride on the Swiss Glacier Express, and visit Germany, Switzerland and Austria.

  • 6 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • 4 evening meals
  • Convenient local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
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The perfect way to get into the festive spirit! Explore beautiful Rüdesheim and the wonderful Rhine Valley Christmas Markets.

  • 4 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • 3 evening meals
  • Porterage at the hotel
  • Local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
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Discover some of Germany’s finest Christmas markets, and browse unique gifts, sample delicious treats and make spectacular festive memories!

  • 6 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • 4 evening meals
  • Porterage at the hotel
  • Local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
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Make treasured memories this Christmas and join us on a wonderful cruise along the majestic Rhine, with visits to Cologne, Boppard and more.

  • 6 nights cruising on a full-board basis
  • Services onboard the ship of a Cruise Director & Manager
  • Welcome drink and Captain's Gala Dinner
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi
  • Local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
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  • 2025
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Join our tour to the heart of Germany, where we take in the seasonal scenery of Hannover and the beautiful Harz region.

  • 6 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • 4 evening meals
  • Local joining points
  • Porterage at the hotel

Departures:

  • 2024
    • Jan
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Treat yourself to festive fun as we head to the Salzburg, Innsbruck and Munich Christmas markets, and enjoy Alpine scenery on the way!

  • 6 nights hotel with continental breakfast
  • 4 evening meals
  • Convenient local joining points

Departures:

  • 2024
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Make this New Year the best one yet with a memorable cruise aboard the MS Serenade 1, enjoying visits to Cologne, Koblenz and more.

  • 5 nights cruising on a full-board basis
  • 1 night hotel
  • Services onboard the ship of a Cruise Director & Manager
  • Welcome drink and Captain's Gala Dinner
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi
  • Local joining points

Departures:

  • 2025
    • Jan
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Germany

Germany Highlights

From the largest cities to the tiniest towns, there are exciting places to see up and down Germany. Home to the castle that inspired Walt Disney, the small German village of Hohenschwangau is one of the most-visited places in the country, whilst the outstanding landscapes seen from the tranquil town of Sankt Goar, over the Rhine River, are included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Goar by the Rhine also boasts a unique piece of German history: the largest free-hanging cuckoo clock in the world. These smaller locations are just as iconic and incredible as the larger ones, like the grand city of Cologne or capital city of Berlin. Berlin’s Christmas markets are a special experience; from November all the way into January, these remarkable markets are filled with beauty and nostalgia, each with seasonal delicacies and unique atmospheres. Exploring more of Germany’s history, delve into the Eifel region of western Germany in the old weaving town of Monschau, with its traditional homes and cobblestoned streets, or discover the Baroque Old Town of Heidelberg. With so much to see and do, start planning a fully escorted holiday to Germany with Shearings. 

Book any tour for
only
£25 deposit per person

Local Information

  • Capital Berlin
  • Language German
  • Currency Euro 
  • Tip 10%
  • Time Zone GMT +1 
  • Electricity Type F Two Pin (230V)
View Tours

Must See

Set amongst the hilltop, the breathtaking sight of King Ludwig II’s famous Neuschwanstein Castle is like something from a fairy tale

View Tour

Things to Do & Local attractions?

  • Take a trip back in time and ride nostalgic steam trains through the magnificent Harz Mountains View Tour
  • Explore the dense pine forests, quaint villages and distinctive character of the Black Forest View Tour
  • Get into the festive spirit with a visit to some of Germany’s most magical Christmas Markets View Tour
  • Discover quaint riverside towns and villages, located in between the rolling vineyards View Tour

Food and Drink

Beer

Home to the famous Oktoberfest, beer is a major part of the culture in Germany, with strict Reinheitsgebot regulations governing the ingredients. The most popular beer is by far the Pilsner, which has a very specific recipe and process making it a high quality and beloved beverage. 

Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten is a traditional roast recipe and one of the national dishes of Germany. This delicious dish uses meat (usually beef) which has been marinated for several days, ensuring it is incredibly tender, before adding a thick gravy and potato pancakes. 

German Sausages

They may typically be easy to prepare, but German sausages are far from simple in their taste. With over a thousand different varieties, there is something for everyone, including the famous Bratwurst and Frankfurter Würstchen. 

Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut, meaning sour cabbage in German, is a side dish using raw cabbage, cut up very fine, simply sprinkled with salt, pepper and seeds before leaving to ferment for several days. It has a salty and sour taste which pairs perfectly with sausage and mashed potatoes. 

Planning your Trip

With so much on offer, you might need some inspiration! We’ve hand-picked a selection of favourite destinations and provided an overview of the very best highlights...

Rhine Valley

Rhine Valley Highlights

Rüdesheim 

Known for its wine making, medieval castles, and beautiful scenery, Rüdesheim is the perfect town to indulge in art, history, culture, and gastronomic delights. The Old Town is a charming maze of narrow streets and half-timbered houses, with the Drosselgasse at its very heart – expect to hear cheerful Rhineland music as you wander the streets.  


Koblenz 

Founded by the Romans in 8 BC, Koblenz was a military stronghold for centuries; now, it is a beautiful city with a rich history. The city boasts a unique location at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, and visitors can stand on this meeting point at the Deutsches Eck. With other highlights including Ehrenbreitstein Fortress and a beautiful Old Town, there is plenty to see and do here. 


Mainz 

Located on the western bank of the Rhine, Mainz is well known for its remarkable cathedral, charming Old Town, and as the birthplace of inventor Johannes Gutenberg. Mainz Cathedral can be found in the Marktplatz, and with its outstanding architecture, opulent interior and rich history, it’s no surprise this is the city’s most popular attraction.  


Cologne

Cologne Highlights

Cologne Cathedral 

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cologne Cathedral is the most-visited landmark in Germany. Its two mighty towers dominate the city’s skyline, and the interior is just as impressive with its Shrine of the Three Kings – a large, decorated, triple sarcophagus which is said to contain their bones.  


Old Town 

Expect countless alleys lined with half-timbered houses, historic monuments and delightful cafés as you explore Cologne’s Old Town. Highlights include the Pixies Fountain, the bronze monument of Tünnes and Schäl, and the Groß St. Martin.  


Christmas Markets 

Transforming into a magical wonderland during Christmas, Cologne’s Christmas markets promise to get you into the festive spirit. Wonderful spicy aromas of cinnamon stars, baked apples and roasted almonds will fill the air, and the cosy stalls offer an abundance of traditional goods and handcrafted gifts. 


Monschau

Monschau Highlights

Burg Monschau 

Perched on a hill overlooking the town, Burg Monschau is a castle dating back to the 13th century. Featuring walled walkways and a heavily fortified ring wall, over time the castle has been abandoned, destructed, and renovated – it now houses a lively youth hostel.  


Rotes Haus 

The former residence of the Scheibler family, who were prominent cloth merchants in Monschau, the Rotes Haus is the town’s most-famous landmark. This red brick house stands out amongst the half-timbered buildings, and inside a fascinating museum showcases antiques, artefacts, and fixtures of a bygone era.   


Altstadt 

Nestled on the banks of the River Rur, the Altstadt, or Old Town, is made up of storybook houses, romantic cobbled streets, and quaint shops. A dreamy place for a stroll or to simply watch the world go by, it doesn’t get much more nostalgic. 


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