Beethoven monument in Bonn
View of Bonn
Cologne Cathedral
Beethoven birthplace plaque
Maria Laach Abbey
Cologne view
Remagen
Tour highlights:
Exclusive Beethoven-Haus Experience with special recital
Beethoven Festival Performances
Bonn Walking Tour
Scenic Rhine Cruise & Maria Laach Abbey with a private organ recital
Drachenfels & Drachenburg Castle – Ride a historic cogwheel railway to a hilltop castle
Follow in the footsteps of Beethoven on this inspiring journey to Bonn and the Rhine Valley, on the 200th anniversary of his death. Combining musical heritage with cultural exploration, this tour features guided visits to key sites associated with Beethoven and Schumann, exclusive private recitals, and performances at the celebrated Beethoven Festival. Alongside time in Bonn and Cologne, enjoy a scenic Rhine cruise, historic castles, and a visit to Maria Laach Abbey, creating a rich and memorable blend of music, history and landscapes.
Available Departures |
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| 07 - September - 2027 | £ 2990.00 | Travel Info Book Now |
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Provisional Timings St Pancras Departing: 07th September 2027 at 09:01 Returning: 13th September 2027 at 16:51 |
Day 1: London to Bonn
Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris, continuing by rail to Cologne. On arrival, transfer by coach to our hotel in Bonn. Evening welcome drink, followed by dinner with wine.
Day 2: Beethoven’s Bonn & the Schumanns
A morning guided walking tour introduces Bonn’s rich musical heritage. Visit key sites associated with Beethoven's early life, including his birthplace and associated residences, churches where he performed as a young organist, and the former Electoral Palace, where he worked as a court musician. Continue to the Beethoven-Haus for a private guided tour of this important museum, home to a collection of original manuscripts and personal artefacts, followed by an exclusive recital on a period square piano. After free time for lunch, visit the nearby Schumann-Haus, dedicated to Robert Schumann and his relationship with Bonn. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure
Day 3: Cologne & Beethoven Festival
Today, travel to nearby Cologne, one of Germany’s oldest and most vibrant cities. A guided walking tour introduces its rich history, from Roman origins to its importance as a medieval trading centre. The highlight is a visit to the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and masterpiece of Gothic architecture. After free time for lunch, the afternoon is at leisure to explore the atmospheric old town, browse museums or enjoy riverside views. In the evening, attend a performance at the renowned Beethoven Festival (subject to programme schedule).
Day 4: Rhine Cruise, Maria Laach & Wine Tasting
This morning, embark on a scenic cruise along the Rhine from Bonn to Remagen, gliding past vineyard-clad hills, historic towns and river landscapes that have inspired artists and composers for centuries. Following lunch at a local restaurant, continue to the tranquil setting of Maria Laach Abbey, one of Germany’s finest Romanesque monuments. Visit the abbey church and enjoy a private organ recital, allowing you to appreciate its superb acoustics and spiritual atmosphere. Later, visit a local winery to sample regional wines, gaining insight into the traditions and character of Rhineland viticulture before returning to Bonn.
Day 5: Free day in Bonn
Today is free to explore Bonn at your own pace. You may wish to revisit favourite sights, explore museums such as the Bundeskunsthalle, or simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this cultured city. There may also be the opportunity to attend a morning concert as part of the Beethoven Festival (optional and at own expense).
Day 6: Drachenfels & Königswinter
Travel along the Rhine to the picturesque town of Königswinter, set at the foot of the legendary Drachenfels hill. Ascend the slopes by historic cog railway, enjoying sweeping views over the Rhine Valley. At the summit area, visit the striking Drachenburg Castle, a 19th-century villa with fairytale turrets, richly decorated interiors and panoramic terraces. In the afternoon, continue to the Haus der Geschichte (House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany), offering a compelling overview of Germany’s recent past. This evening, return to Bonn for a further performance at the Beethoven Festival (subject to schedule).
Day 7: Departure
Transfer to Cologne for your return rail journey to Paris and onward by Eurostar to London St Pancras.
NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion.
Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 30 travellers.
Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as moderate due to the amount of time spent walking and standing for viewing at attractions. For further information, please visit the mobility page on our website, or call our team if you have any questions prior to booking.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
PLEASE NOTE: As with most trains, passengers are responsible for carrying baggage onto and off the train. Baggage can be stored on overhead shelves or at the entrance to the carriages. Trollies are available at St Pancras and Paris, but bags do need to be carried on to the platform.
Travel Editions recommends a luggage delivery service called thebaggageman, where your suitcase can be picked up from your home before departure and delivered straight to your hotel; therefore removing the worry about carrying your cases onto and off the trains. Please click here for more information and we have arranged a 10% discount exclusive to Travel Editions clients off the thebaggageman service. Tel: 01844 264890
Dorint Hotel, Bonn
