Scenic European Train Journey: Cologne to Paris with Family - December 2025

Day 1: Explore Cologne

Cologne, Germany on December 17, 2025

9:00am

Cologne Cathedral

Visit the iconic Gothic Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and panoramic city views from the tower.
EUR0 (Free entry, tower climb €5 per person), 2h0m

11:30am

Breakfast at Café Reichard

Enjoy freshly baked pastries and strong coffee at this popular café located near the cathedral, perfect for a family breakfast.
EUR25, 1h0m

1:00pm

Ludwig Museum

Explore modern art collections including works by Picasso and Warhol, ideal for introducing children to contemporary creativity.
EUR14 per adult, children under 18 free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Lunch at Peters Brauhaus

Taste authentic Cologne dishes in a traditional brewery setting, offering family-friendly meals and hearty regional flavors.
EUR60 for family, 1h30m

5:00pm

Rhine Riverwalk

Stroll along the scenic Rhine river promenade and enjoy festive holiday lights in mid-December.
EUR0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Haxenhaus

Savor traditional German dishes such as pork knuckle and sausages in a cozy family-friendly atmosphere.
EUR75, 1h30m
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Day 2: Frankfurt Highlights

Frankfurt, Germany on December 18, 2025

8:00am

Train from Cologne to Frankfurt

Take a direct train journey of approximately 1 hour for comfortable travel to Frankfurt.
EUR40 per person, 1h0m

9:30am

Breakfast at Café Crumble

Enjoy fresh bakery items and coffee in the city center to energize for the day.
EUR30, 1h0m

10:45am

Städel Museum

Discover a vast collection of European art from the Middle Ages to contemporary, suitable for all ages.
EUR16 per adult, free for children under 18, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kleinmarkthalle

Sample diverse local and international foods in this lively indoor market - a family favorite for food variety.
EUR50, 1h0m

2:30pm

Palmengarten Botanical Garden

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon among exotic plants and winter greenhouse displays, open until 5:00pm in December.
EUR7 per adult, children under 6 free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Evening stroll along the Main River

Take in the city skyline and festive lights on the riverbank walkway.
EUR0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Apfelwein Klaus

Try regional specialties in a warm tavern setting, perfect for families wanting hearty German fare.
EUR70, 1h30m
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Day 3: Charming Bamberg

Bamberg, Germany on December 19, 2025

8:00am

Train from Frankfurt to Bamberg

Travel approximately 2.5 hours on a direct or single transfer train to reach this picturesque town.
EUR50 per person, 2h30m

11:00am

Breakfast at Café Müller

Indulge in local pastries and coffee at a family-friendly café near the old town.
EUR25, 1h0m

12:15pm

Explore Bamberg Old Town

Wander through medieval streets and visit the stunning Bamberg Cathedral and Altes Rathaus, open until 5:00pm.
EUR0 entry to town, cathedral donation suggested, 2h30m

3:00pm

Lunch at Schlenkerla

Taste Bamberg’s famous smoked beer and traditional Franconian dishes in a historic tavern.
EUR60, 1h30m

5:00pm

Walk along the Regnitz River

Enjoy scenic views and photo opportunities by the riverside, beautifully lit at night in December.
EUR0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gasthof Goldener Anker

End the day with hearty German cuisine in a cozy, welcoming environment for families.
EUR70, 1h30m
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Day 4: Nuremberg Christmas

Nuremberg, Germany on December 20, 2025

8:00am

Train from Bamberg to Nuremberg

A quick 40-minute train ride will bring you to Nuremberg, renowned for its Christmas market.
EUR20 per person, 0h40m

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Bar Katz

Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and local pastries in the city center near the Christmas market.
EUR30, 1h0m

10:00am

Nuremberg Castle

Tour the medieval fortress offering great views and historical exhibits, open until 4:00pm in winter.
EUR7 per adult, children under 18 free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bratwursthäusle

Experience famous Nuremberg sausages in a family-friendly eatery near the castle.
EUR60, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit the Christkindlesmarkt

Explore one of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets, perfect for festive shopping and seasonal treats by early evening.
Free entry, 2h30m

5:00pm

Evening Stroll & Hot Chocolate

Enjoy hot chocolate and soak in the festive atmosphere illuminated by thousands of lights.
EUR15, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Essigbrätlein

Dine in this Michelin-starred restaurant offering creative Franconian cuisine with a family-friendly approach.
EUR100, 1h30m
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Day 5: Munich City Tour

Munich, Germany on December 21, 2025

8:00am

Train from Nuremberg to Munich

Approximately 1 hour train to vibrant Munich, the Bavarian capital.
EUR30 per person, 1h0m

9:30am

Breakfast at Café Frischhut

Try popular Munich pastries like Schmalznudel and enjoy coffee close to Marienplatz.
EUR30, 1h0m

11:00am

Marienplatz and Glockenspiel

Watch the famous Glockenspiel show at 11am, and explore the lively central square surrounded by historic buildings.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Hofbräuhaus

Enjoy Bavarian specialties in the world-famous beer hall, a fun experience for family to soak Bavarian culture.
EUR70, 1h30m

2:30pm

Deutsches Museum

Visit the world’s largest science and technology museum, an educational delight for kids and adults alike, open till 5:00pm.
EUR14 per adult, children under 6 free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Christmas Market at Marienplatz

Experience Munich’s festive market atmosphere with crafts and treats during December evenings.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Dallmayr

End your day with gourmet Bavarian and international cuisine in an elegant setting.
EUR90, 1h30m
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Day 6: Salzburg Exploration

Salzburg, Austria on December 22, 2025

8:30am

Train from Munich to Salzburg

Approximately 1.5 hour scenic train ride across the German-Austrian border to Salzburg.
EUR40 per person, 1h30m

10:15am

Breakfast at Café Tomaselli

Dine at Salzburg’s oldest café famous for Mozart connections and confectioneries.
EUR35, 1h0m

11:30am

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Explore one of Europe’s largest medieval castles with great views, open until 5:00pm in winter.
EUR12.90 per adult, children under 6 free, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium

Enjoy historic dining at one of Europe’s oldest restaurants with delicious Austrian cuisine.
EUR70, 1h30m

3:45pm

Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Walk through beautiful baroque gardens decorated for the holidays, free and picturesque.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Christmas Market at Domplatz

Visit Salzburg’s lovely Christmas market offering crafts, sweets, and festive ambiance until 8:00pm.
Free entry, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Gasthaus Zwettler's

Family-friendly Austrian meals in a cozy setting to finish the day.
EUR65, 1h30m
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Day 7: Strasbourg Serenity

Strasbourg, France on December 23, 2025

8:00am

Train from Salzburg to Strasbourg

Travel with one transfer, approx. 5 hours, arriving in the capital of Alsace known for its Christmas traditions.
EUR70 per person, 5h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Maison Kammerzell

Dine in a historic half-timbered building serving Alsatian specialties near Cathedral square.
EUR80, 1h30m

3:00pm

Strasbourg Cathedral and Astronomical Clock

Visit the impressive Gothic cathedral and catch the clock’s 4pm mechanical show; open until 6:00pm.
Free entry, clock show included, 2h0m

5:30pm

Explore La Petite France

Wander the charming half-timbered houses and canals, wonderfully decorated for Christmas.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Gruber

Enjoy traditional Alsatian fare in a family-friendly restaurant in the historic district.
EUR70, 1h30m
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Day 8: Magic at Euro Disney

Marne-la-Vallée, France on December 24, 2025

7:00am

Train from Strasbourg to Marne-la-Vallée

Approximately 4 hours by train, arriving early for full day at Disneyland Paris.
EUR80 per person, 4h0m

11:30am

Breakfast at Market House Deli, Disneyland

Start with a quick bite in Disneyland’s Main Street USA themed deli to energize the fun day ahead.
EUR50 for family, 0h45m

12:15pm

Enjoy Disneyland Park

Spend the day exploring rides, shows, and festive Christmas decorations at the park, open until 8:00pm on Christmas Eve.
EUR100 per adult, children 3-11 EUR95, 7h45m

8:30pm

Dinner at Bistrot Chez Rémy

Dine in this Ratatouille-themed restaurant located within the park to end your magical Christmas Eve.
EUR90, 1h30m
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Day 9: Christmas in Paris

Paris, France on December 25, 2025

8:00am

Travel from Marne-la-Vallée to Paris

Short 40-minute train ride to central Paris, perfect to enjoy Christmas Day in the city.
EUR15 per person, 0h40m

9:00am

Christmas Breakfast at Angelina

Famous for hot chocolate and pastries, an elegant spot to celebrate Christmas morning.
EUR80, 1h0m

10:30am

Notre-Dame Cathedral & Ile de la Cité

Visit the historic cathedral area and nearby sites, open for Christmas services and sightseeing.
Free entry, 2h0m

1:00pm

Christmas Lunch at Le Procope

Dine at Paris’ oldest café with a festive menu and a cozy family-friendly atmosphere.
EUR120, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk along the Seine & Visit Louvre Courtyard

Enjoy beautiful views of the Seine river and Louvre’s iconic glass pyramid from outside; museums may be closed but area is lovely for strolls.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Explore Christmas Markets at Champs-Élysées

Shop festive goods and enjoy seasonal treats from open-air Christmas markets, open through late evening during the holidays.
Free entry, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Les Deux Magots

Historic Parisian café serving classic French cuisine, a perfect end to Christmas Day with family.
EUR90, 1h30m
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Day 10: Paris Sightseeing

Paris, France on December 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de Flore

Enjoy a classic Parisian breakfast in one of the city’s most famous cafés before a day of sightseeing.
EUR40, 1h0m

9:30am

Eiffel Tower Visit

Pre-book tickets to visit the Eiffel Tower observation decks and enjoy panoramic views of Paris.
EUR25 per adult, children under 4 free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Café Constant

Enjoy classic French bistro dishes in a friendly, casual dining setting near the Eiffel Tower.
EUR70, 1h30m

2:00pm

Musée d'Orsay

Explore Impressionist masterpieces housed in a former railway station, open 9:30am-6:00pm on Fridays (closed Tuesdays).
EUR16 per adult, children under 18 free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Seine River Cruise

Take a scenic cruise to see Paris’ landmarks illuminated at night, relaxing for all ages.
EUR15 per adult, children discounted, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte

Enjoy a simple yet delicious steak-frites meal famous in this lively Parisian spot.
EUR80, 1h30m
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Day 11: Paris Museums & Parks

Paris, France on December 27, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Ladurée Champs-Elysées

Start the day with exquisite pastries and coffee from this renowned Parisian pâtisserie.
EUR50, 1h0m

9:30am

Louvre Museum

Visit the world’s largest art museum. Book tickets in advance for easier entrance. Open 9am-6pm, closed Tuesdays.
EUR17 per adult, under 18 free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Café Marly

Enjoy lunch with views of the Louvre’s courtyard and Museum Pyramid in an elegant bistro.
EUR90, 1h30m

2:30pm

Tuileries Garden & Place de la Concorde

Relax and walk through these grand Parisian gardens, beautifully decorated for winter holidays.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur

Take metro to Montmartre, explore the artistic district and visit the basilica, open until 6pm.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Moulin de la Galette

Historic restaurant in Montmartre with traditional French cuisine and lovely atmosphere.
EUR90, 1h30m
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Day 12: Versailles Day Trip

Versailles, France on December 28, 2025

8:00am

Train from Paris to Versailles

Short 1-hour RER C train ride to the Palace of Versailles, open 9am-5:30pm.
EUR7 per person for train, 1h0m

9:30am

Breakfast at La Petite Venise, Versailles

Enjoy breakfast at this charming café inside the Versailles park grounds.
EUR30, 1h0m

10:30am

Palace of Versailles Tour

Explore the opulent rooms, Hall of Mirrors, and expansive gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
EUR20 per adult, children under 18 free, 3h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at La Capucine

Dine nearby the palace with classic French cuisine suitable for families.
EUR70, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Versailles Gardens

Stroll the grand gardens decorated with fountains, sculptures, and seasonal lightings.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to Paris

Take the train back to Paris in the early evening to rest and prepare for departure.
EUR7 per person, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner nearby hotel in Paris

Choose a relaxed family-friendly restaurant close to your accommodation for convenience after a busy day.
EUR70, 1h30m
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Day 13: Relax & Last Paris Sights

Paris, France on December 29, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Enjoy organic breads and fresh coffee in a calm environment.
EUR40, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Musée Rodin

Explore beautiful sculptures and gardens in this peaceful museum open 10am-6pm (closed Mondays).
EUR13 per adult, under 18 free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Les Cocottes

Sample creative French dishes served in cast iron pots, great for family dining.
EUR70, 1h30m

2:30pm

Shopping or Leisure in Le Marais

Explore boutiques, art galleries, and vibrant streets of the historic Marais district.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Place des Vosges

Unwind in one of Paris’s oldest squares with beautiful architecture and gardens.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Bouillon Pigalle

Enjoy classic French comfort food in a fun, lively atmosphere to celebrate your trip’s end.
EUR75, 1h30m
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Day 14: Departure

Paris, France on December 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast near hotel

Light breakfast at a nearby café before departure.
EUR25, 1h0m

9:30am

Travel to Airport

Arrange transport to Paris airport for your flight home or next destination.
EUR50 taxi or EUR10 train, 1h0m
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