Tour Germany by train

See Berlin's railway station on a German tour. (Photo: Gallup Pix/Photodisc/Getty Images )

Touring Germany by rail offers a relaxing way to see the country on a fast, modern and efficient rail network. Custom tours cater to a range of interests. Tours of both major cities and geographical areas such as the Rhine Valley or the Black Forest are available.

City Tours by Train

A tour of Germany's premier cities gives an introduction to German culture and history. You can visit Cologne's cathedral, enjoy the beer halls and old-town charm of Munich or the legendary nightlife in Hamburg. Visit Berlin to see the Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate and remnants of the Berlin Wall. Railbookers offers six-night tours of Cologne, Munich and Berlin, which can be customized to add extra nights, upgrades to first-class train carriages or different cities.

Munich is a highlight of a trip to Germany.

Rhine Valley Tours

Some of Germany's finest scenery is found along the Rhine Valley, and a train tour of the region provides views of fairytale castles, mountain slopes and winding rivers. You will visit pass through German towns and can try some of the wines grown in the vineyards in the surrounding countryside. Great Rail runs a Rhine Valley tour that includes trips on the "little trains" that run on heritage railway lines and accommodations in Konigswinter.

Black Forest Tours

Black Forest rail tours provide a scenic route through mountains, meadows and forests. You will also take in lively German towns and have access to cable car rides. Travelsphere's Black Forest Rail Adventure offers a four-night tour. taking in a journey through "Hell Valley, " the Triberg waterfalls, Lake Titisee and the town of Freiburg, capital of the Black Forest. Make sure that you find time for a coffee and a black forest gateau.

Christmas Markets by Rail

Germany's Christmas markets run across the country throughout December bringing a festive combination of entertainment and shopping to small towns and big cities. You will find ice rinks, grottos and Ferris wheels alongside stalls selling food and crafts. Customize your own rail tour of the markets with Rail Easy and visit some of the best markets in places like Frankfurt, Stuttgart and Trier. More information on the German rail network is on the Bahn website.

Source: traveltips.usatoday.com

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