Search

Rail Escape

Northern Highlights: Amsterdam, Hamburg, Berlin and Warsaw

Nine-day rail journey through Amsterdam, Hamburg, Berlin, and Warsaw

Illustration of Northern Highlights: Amsterdam, Hamburg, Berlin and Warsaw

Rail Escape's Northern Highlights tour is a 9-day, 8-night rail journey starting in Amsterdam and ending in Warsaw. You travel first class between four major Northern European cities, spending two full nights in each before moving on. This relaxed pace allows time to absorb each destination without constant packing. Amsterdam opens with its canal system and World War II history; Hamburg showcases maritime culture and modern architecture; Berlin traces German history through the Brandenburg Gate and East Side Gallery; Warsaw reveals the resilience of its UNESCO Old Town and Royal Castle. All hotels are located near train stations, and breakfast is provided each morning. The package suits first-time rail travellers and history enthusiasts who prefer comfortable hotels and structured itineraries. Excursions, meals beyond breakfast, and local transportation are arranged separately.

What to know before you look closer

  • Hotel accommodations are listed with upgrade options available; your final hotel tier depends on which you select.
  • Many attractions, activities, and entrance fees are not included; the from-price covers rail, hotel, breakfast, and transfers only.
  • Local transportation within cities is not included; you will need to arrange your own transit for sightseeing.
  • Some regional trains operate in second class only, despite the tour being marketed as first class.

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: Amsterdam

    Arrive in Amsterdam

    Welcome to Amsterdam! Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. In the afternoon, consider exploring the iconic canals and bridges that give the city its charming character. Rent a bike or join a guided walking tour to explore the picturesque neighborhoods, such as Jordaan and De Pijp. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Anne Frank House, a sobering reminder of the city's history during World War II.

  2. Day 2overnight: Amsterdam

    Explore Amsterdam Attractions

    Today, immerse yourself in Amsterdam's rich cultural heritage by visiting the renowned Rijksmuseum, which houses an impressive collection of Dutch Golden Age art, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Afterward, stroll through the Vondelpark, a beloved urban oasis, or take a boat tour along the canals for a unique perspective of the city. In the evening, experience the lively nightlife in the Leidseplein or Rembrandtplein squares.

  3. Day 3railovernight: Hamburg

    Depart Amsterdam for Hamburg

    After breakfast, check out of your hotel and make your way to the train station, where you'll catch a train to Hamburg. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the city's waterfront and harbor, a bustling maritime hub. Visit the Elbphilharmonie, a stunning concert hall with impressive architecture, or take a stroll through the historic Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its striking red-brick warehouses.

  4. Day 4railovernight: Hamburg

    Explore Hamburg Attractions

    Begin your day by visiting the Miniatur Wunderland, a captivating model railway exhibition showcasing miniature landscapes and cities from around the world. Afterward, explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, such as the Sternschanze district, known for its alternative vibe and street art. In the evening, indulge in the local culinary scene by sampling traditional dishes like Labskaus (a hearty meat and vegetable stew) or Franzbrötchen (a cinnamon pastry).

  5. Day 5railovernight: Berlin

    Depart Hamburg for Berlin

    After checking out of your hotel, take a train to Berlin, the dynamic capital of Germany. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the stunning Reichstag building, which houses the German parliament. Visit the East Side Gallery, a vibrant open-air gallery showcasing murals painted on remnants of the Berlin Wall.

  6. Day 6overnight: Berlin

    Explore Berlin Attractions

    Delve into Berlin's rich history by visiting the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and the Topography of Terror, a museum documenting the atrocities of the Nazi regime. Afterward, explore the city's lively neighborhoods, such as Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, known for their street art, trendy cafés, and vibrant nightlife. In the evening, experience the city's cultural scene by attending a performance at the renowned Berlin Philharmonic or a show at the iconic Berliner Ensemble theater.

  7. Day 7railovernight: Warsaw

    Depart Berlin for Warsaw

    After checking out of your hotel, take a train to Warsaw, the capital of Poland. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was meticulously reconstructed after being destroyed during World War II. Visit the Royal Castle and the Sigismund Column, iconic landmarks in the heart of the city.

  8. Day 8overnight: Warsaw

    Explore Warsaw Attractions

    Begin your day by visiting the Warsaw Rising Museum, a poignant tribute to the brave citizens who fought against the Nazi occupation during World War II. Afterward, explore the city's parks and gardens, such as the enchanting Łazienki Park, which features picturesque palaces and tranquil ponds. In the evening, indulge in traditional Polish cuisine like pierogi (dumplings) and bigos (a hearty hunter's stew).

  9. Day 9

    Depart Warsaw

    After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, spend the morning exploring any remaining sites or neighborhoods before heading to the airport for your departure.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 1Arrive in Amsterdam and explore its canals and bridges by bike or walking tour.
  • Day 3Train journey from Amsterdam to Hamburg, followed by afternoon exploration of the Elbphilharmonie concert hall and Speicherstadt warehouse district.
  • Day 5Arrive in Berlin and visit the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, and East Side Gallery on the Berlin Wall remnants.
  • Day 7Train journey from Berlin to Warsaw, then explore the reconstructed Old Town, Royal Castle, and Sigismund Column.

Included

  • Welcome Package with travel essentials and detailed itinerary information
  • First-Class Rail Travel throughout (some regional trains second-class only)
  • 4-Star Plus Hotel Accommodation in all cities, near train stations
  • Daily Breakfast at all hotel accommodations
  • Airport Transfers on arrival and departure

Not included

  • International Airfare
  • Excursions, Activities and Entrance Fees
  • Meals Beyond Breakfast
  • Local taxes or fees (e.g. hotel tourism taxes)
  • Personal Expenses
  • Tips and Gratuities
  • Local Transportation

Questions travellers ask

Is train travel included?
Yes. Rail Escape includes first-class rail travel between all four cities (some regional trains operate in second class only). International airfare is not included.
What is the typical daily routine?
You stay two nights in each city. On arrival days, you check in to your hotel and explore. On mid-stay days, you have full days in the city. On departure days, you take the train to the next city. The final day is a morning departure.
Which hotels are included?
The package includes the NH City Centre in Amsterdam, Barcelo Hamburg in Hamburg, Adina Apartment Hotel Hackescher Markt in Berlin, and NYX Hotel Warsaw by Leonardo Hotels. Optional upgrades to higher-tier properties are available in each city.
What meals are included?
Daily breakfast at your hotel is included. Lunch and dinner are not included and must be arranged separately.
Are airport transfers included?
Yes. Rail Escape includes airport transfers on arrival and departure.
Is walking involved?
Yes. The itinerary involves exploring each city on foot, including visits to museums, monuments, and neighborhoods. No specific accessibility information is provided.

Similar journeys