Grand European - 21 Days

Leave London behind and travel to medieval Bruges. Meet your Local Specialist to explore its canals, lined with centuries-old gabled houses before joining your Travel Director and travel companions for dinner and drinks in beautiful surrounds. 

Journey through the Dutch countryside to captivating Amsterdam, see the city's iconic sights from the comfort of a canal boat. At this evening's dinner, we’ll Connect With Locals during a Be My Guest experience at the Pauw family dairy farm.

Travel to Germany, arriving at Boppard where you'll board a Rhine cruise past hilltop castles. Admire the magnificent ruined sandstone castle in Heidelberg overlooking the Neckar River en route to your hotel where you'll dine this evening.

Journey through romantic Black Forest landscapes today – tales of the Brothers Grimm are your constant companion as you continue through southwest Germany to the Swiss border. See the mighty Rhine Falls plunging dramatically near the town of Schaffhausen before arriving in the medieval city of Lucerne, your home for the next two nights.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).         

Swiss Folklore Evening with Dinner - CHF 120 pp

Tonight we’ll enjoy a tasty Swiss meal, including the famous Swiss cheese fondue, in a typical restaurant. While enjoying dinner, you can also join in a lively folklore show which includes yodelling, flag-throwing and Alpine horn-blowing. Two drinks are also included.

Swiss Dinner Party in Old Lucerne - CHF 113 pp

Tonight, you'll enjoy a delicious Swiss meal that includes the famous Swiss cheese fondue and a drink in a typical local restaurant. Its riverside location in the heart of old Lucerne will ensure a relaxing evening enjoying the hearty Swiss menu.

See Lucerne's poignant Lion Monument this morning. The mournful mortally wounded lion hewn from sandstone provides a sombre reminder of the brave Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Venture to the flower-lined 14th-century wooden Chapel Bridge, explore Old Town’s colourful façades or consider an exhilarating mountain and cruise Optional Experience. This evening we enjoy dinner at our hotel.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).          

'Swisstainable' Mount Stanserhorn And Lake Cruise - CHF 131 pp

Take a scenic cruise with us across Lake Lucerne to Stans, and one of Switzerland's oldest mountain railways. Travelling by funicular and the world's first Cabrio cable car, we'll reach 1900m (6300ft), where you’ll have free time to admire the stunning Alpine scenery.

Swiss Countryside & Carriages - CHF 83 pp

A chance to get to know the Swiss, you’ll meet local farmers and enjoy a delightful countryside tour in horse-drawn carriages. Soak up the stunning scenery as we trot around a typical rural community, en route to a local homestead where you’ll savour local drinks and snacks. 

Our love affair with the Rhine continues today as we travel to the tiny Principality of Liechtenstein and see its capital, Vaduz, before crossing into Austria. Follow the scenic Arlberg Pass through the Tyrol to Innsbruck, the capital of the Alps where you will see the ornate Golden Roof during an orientation tour. Admire the fascinating crystal installations and browse for precious gifts and souvenirs at the Swarovski Crystal Worlds Store.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).     

Tyrolean Evening With Dinner - EUR 94 pp

Enjoy a delicious meal of traditional Tyrolean cuisine before a lively folklore show, where singers, dancers and musicians dressed in national costume provide an evening of entertainment and fun. Drinks are included.

Salzburg's extraordinary natural beauty has inspired musical greats and epic films. Join a Local Specialist on a guided walking tour of the city that gave birth to Mozart, featuring locations that music and movie lovers will remember from the famous film, 'The Sound of Music'. This evening, we arrive in the beautiful Baroque city of Vienna, our home for the next two nights.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).    

Viennese Dinner with Musical Entertainment - EUR 79 pp

Enjoy dinner in an atmospheric Viennese restaurant, with drinks and traditional musical entertainment included. A unique experience in one of Europe’s most elegant cities.

Join a Local Specialist on a sightseeing tour of one of Europe's most elegant capitals. View the State Opera House, the City Hall, Parliament, the Imperial Boulevards and the Hofburg, the former imperial palace for the Habsburg dynasty. Spend the evening soaking up the melodic charm of what has become the world's music capital, celebrating the talents of old masters and modern icons at open-air concerts, palaces and expansive stages.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).  

Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens - EUR 71 pp

The Imperial Summer Palace of Schönbrunn offers an amazing journey through the centuries of Habsburg rule. It is perfectly preserved and richly decorated with treasures from around the globe. Each room has a story to tell, so of course, you’ll have a Local Specialist to bring it to life and to make the most of your time.

Dinner And Viennese Concert - EUR 134 pp

A wonderful evening of all things Viennese! Enjoy a superb dinner with drinks, followed by a concert of Viennese classical music. With your 'A Class' tickets, you will experience works by Johann Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart performed in a classic, sumptuous setting.

Viennese Concert - EUR 74 pp

You’ll enjoy a wonderful concert of Viennese classical music including some of the most famous works of Strauss and Mozart, performed by some of the most highly acclaimed soloists and dancers in Austria. You’ll receive 'A Class' tickets and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine or juice during the interval. Please note: on occasion a small gift will be offered in place of a glass of sparkling wine.

Driving through the scenic Austrian Lake District, we cross the Italian border and journey through the Veneto Plains to the Byzantine city of Venice where we'll spend the next two nights.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).    

Gondolas & the Grand Canal - EUR 96 pp

Cruise by private water taxi along the Grand Canal, passing the city's iconic palazzi. Spot the Rialto Bridge and arrive near St. Mark's Square before switching pace with a gondola ride through Venice's quieter canals.

Today you’ll witness the traditional Venetian craft of glassblowing at a workshop. Watch master craftsmen use centuries-old techniques to shape the delicate glass pieces Venice is famed for. Navigate the city’s bustling waterways by private launch, heading to the gateway of Venice, St. Mark's Square. Tread in the footsteps of Casanova and Marco Polo and admire the sights and sounds of the 'Queen of the Adriatic', taking in the ornate Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. The afternoon is yours to get lost in Venice. Explore the labyrinthine ‘calli’ in search of the best Venice Spritz in town, watch the sun set over the Grand Canal or consider a cruise to the island of Burano for a delicious meal.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).      

Venice's Secrets - EUR 51 pp

Explore the hidden maze of streets which make up this unique city as your Local Specialist gives you a fascinating insight into Venice's past and present. You’ll discover tucked away squares and back streets local Venetians use to side-step the tourist throng and give you a sense of authentic life on the island of Venice.

Lagoon Cruise to Burano with Food and Drinks - EUR 90 pp

Cruise across the Venetian Lagoon to Burano, a small island known for its brightly coloured houses and strong fishing traditions. Wander along quiet canals and browse shops selling handmade lace, a craft passed down through generations. Then sit down to a relaxed dinner featuring local flavours and regional wine, surrounded by the island’s cheerful character and laid-back charm. 

Journey south to the mystical town of Assisi, where St. Francis was born and laid to rest. Here you'll stroll through the city’s streets in the company of a Local Specialist and have an opportunity to visit the Basilica of St. Francis. See the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and enjoy dinner at your hotel tonight.

Pass the site of the bloody World War II battle of Monte Cassino en route to the Bay of Naples and the lost city of Pompeii where you'll join a Local Specialist who will share the story of this remarkable ancient Roman settlement that was buried in ash following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. 

Cross the enchanting blue water of the Bay of Naples to the Isle of Capri and ascend to Capri by funicular railway where you will join a Local Specialist for a guided walking tour of the town. Spend a leisurely afternoon soaking up la dolce vita in the piazza before sailing back to the mainland. Later, you arrive in Rome, the 'Eternal City', where we will spend the next two nights.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).    

Capri Island Cruise & Tour - EUR 60 pp

Spectacular cliffs and the famous turquoise-coloured waters are best experienced with a relaxing cruise around the island to view the beautiful white grotto and unique coastline. Our cruise ends in Capri town, with picture postcard views. Enjoy a lemon granita, a specialty of the island. (This optional is weather-dependent, and may be replaced with a mini bus tour of the island to Anacapri, and a visit of the Villa of Axel Munthe.)

Delve into the delights of Rome with a Local Specialist who will take you on a sightseeing tour of the Vatican City, see pilgrims from across the world and visit the Vatican Museums and marvel at Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Later, cross the Tiber River into Ancient Rome to see the Roman Forum, the walls of the mighty Colosseum and enjoy views of Circus Maximus. Delight in the atmosphere of Rome this evening on an Optional Experience relaxing over dinner.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).      

Piazzas and Fountains - EUR 50 pp

Discover the most enchanting areas of the city with a Local Specialist. Stroll through the maze of narrow streets and picturesque squares in Rome’s historic centre, uncovering famous landmarks and hidden gems in the Eternal City.

Roman Evening with Dinner - EUR 79 pp

Tonight, spend a lively evening with us in Rome. After a short drive, arrive at a characteristic trattoria to relax and enjoy a typical Italian meal, soaking up The Eternal City's unique atmosphere all the while.

Colosseum and Dinner - EUR 134 pp

Explore the Colosseum with a Local Specialist, where gladiators once fought before roaring crowds. Walk beneath its arches and hear how emperors used entertainment to unite the empire. After your visit, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Roman specialities just steps from the city’s ancient heart.

Guided Visit to the Colosseum - EUR 75 pp

With a Local Expert, step back in time to explore the glorious history of the Roman Empire. Admire the Arch of Constantine and tread in the footsteps of gladiators and Roman soldiers. Enjoy priority reserved entrance ahead of the crowds and once inside the mighty Colosseum, hear tales of deadly gladiatorial combat and the mighty Roman Empire.

Journey north to Florence where you'll join a Local Specialist for an included walking tour to the Piazza della Signoria, the political hub of this once free republic that became a recognised centre for art, architecture and culture. See the beautiful marble Duomo and Baptistery with its famous bronze doors, and the picturesque Ponte Vecchio which straddles the Arno. Learn about the quality and workmanship of one of this city's historic industries at a demonstration of Florentine leathercraft. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure admiring the work of great masters in the Uffizi Gallery, climbing the stone steps to Piazzale Michelangelo for iconic views, or relaxing in the Boboli Gardens. 

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).        

Discover Palazzo Vecchio - EUR 56 pp

Marvel at the legacy of the Medici as you visit Palazzo Vecchio, the symbol of Florence’s political power for over seven centuries. With your Local Specialist, visit the magnificent Hall of the Five Hundred, dedicated to the Medici popes. You’ll also explore rooms decorated with masterpieces by Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo and Donatello. Note: Due to temporary exhibitions, on certain dates the Hall of the Five Hundred may be viewed from the balcony.

Dinner in the Tuscan Countryside - EUR 80 pp

This evening, take a scenic drive to experience a fun and relaxed evening at a friendly, typical restaurant in the countryside. The chef will delight our senses with regional dishes, made with freshly-bought ingredients from the local farmers' markets. Your delicious meal will be accompanied by excellent wines from the vineyards for which this area is so well known. In short, a Tuscan dream come true in an authentic setting.

Explore the city of Pisa and its Square of Miracles, see the famous Leaning Tower which bears this city's name. From Italy to the sun-kissed landscapes of the French Riviera, we stop in the sophisticated Principality of Monaco before continuing to the French Riviera, our home for the next two nights.

Rub shoulders with artists and actors in the medieval hilltop town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence before enjoying an afternoon at leisure in the French Riviera to indulge in the laid-back seaside atmosphere. Wander along the scenic promenade and embrace cafe culture on the tranquil shores of the Mediterranean, stroll through the chic city streets shopping at the French Riviera's fashionable boutiques or relax on the beach watching the sun set. Later, perhaps join an Optional Experience to follow the corniche roads above the Mediterranean, discover French fragrance at Fragonard Perfumery and explore the lanes of Nice Old Town with a Local Specialist.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).      

Riviera Corniche and Nice Old Town - EUR 55 pp

Follow the Riviera corniche roads for views over the Mediterranean and one of Europe’s most-loved coastlines. At Fragonard Perfumery, you’ll learn how fine French fragrances are crafted from raw ingredients to finished scents. Then explore Nice Old Town, the Queen of the Riviera, with a Local Specialist and enjoy free time to wander its colourful streets.

Travel north to the Papal city of Avignon, an important pilgrimage site. Stop for views of the magnificent Papal Palace and famous Pont d'Avignon before arriving in the capital of the Burgundy wine-producing region, Beaune. Explore the ancient walls and the Old Town, see its characteristic geometrically coloured tiled roofs.

Travel north through the vineyards of Burgundy to Paris, your home for the next two nights. The 'City of Lights' shines brightly as you explore its grand boulevards, amble along the Seine or embrace the pageantry of a traditional Parisian cabaret.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).      

Versailles Palace and Gardens - EUR 95 pp

Built for the Sun King, Louis XIV, the Palace of Versailles was the envy of every European ruler, but loathed by the French commoners, which lead to the French Revolution. Step inside the opulent world of Versailles and our Local Specialist will take you through the palace’s Hall of Mirrors and State apartments. Then, enjoy free time to wander the symmetrical, tree-lined gardens.

Moulin Rouge Cabaret and Dinner - EUR 224 pp

It’s world famous for a reason, and this is your chance to see the real-life inspiration behind the award-winning movie. This Parisian institution features 60 dancers and entertainers with over 1,000 costumes to create a dazzling spectacle. You'll enjoy wine, dinner and Champagne during this unforgettable soirée at the original Parisian Cabaret! 

Join a Local Specialist soaking up the sights and sounds of one of the world's most romantic cities. See the Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower. View Notre Dame Cathedral and enjoy a stroll through the Latin Quarter. Enjoy a free afternoon exploring the city, then conclude the day with an unforgettable dining experience at a local restaurant.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).    

Seine Cruise and Parisian Icons - EUR 51 pp

Discover the heart of Paris with a cruise along the Seine. Take in the city’s most iconic sights, from the Eiffel Tower to the Grand Palais from a scenic vantage point. Then, sit back and relax as you drive through the enchanting streets of the City of Love, uncovering even more of its timeless landmarks.

Montmartre Village and Artists' Square - EUR 51 pp

Many people go to Paris, but only a few are lucky enough to experience what it’s really all about. Join us for a stroll with our Local Specialist through Montmartre – an artists’ village once home to Picasso and Toulouse Lautrec, tucked away from the modern city. The paint will still be wet on the canvasses, as we watch apprentices work before our eyes in the famous Artist’s Square. Mingle, barter, and stand in awe of Sacré Coeur Basilica in this historic, bohemian neighbourhood.

Today, bid farewell to your fellow travellers and Travel Director at the end of your holiday.  You can, of course, extend your stay.

Departure Transfer: Arrive at Charles de Gaulle airport at 08:00