Day one - Hitchin to Hamburg via Brussels and Cologne

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Another Interrail adventure begins with a long journey from home to Hamburg. One delayed train meant a later arrival than planned, but we arrived at our cute hotel just around the corner from the central station. Central Hotel Bel Etage was another jewel discovered on the internet and a good way to start the holiday.

Train travel agrees with me

Today was a day of five trains - the most complicated of our itinerary for this expedition. We booked all the journeys in advance, with hotels selected that will hopefully all turn out to be as good as tonight’s is.

Afternoon tea in the shadow of Cologne cathedral


Train travel is a more relaxing way to travel and everything went to schedule except the penultimate journey from Cologne to the outskirts of Hamburg. At least we were constantly kept informed by the rail company.

A tiring day, but heading for a restful holiday has already begun.

Location: Hamburg, Germany

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