Compare Europe Explorer by Intrepid Travel vs European Vistas by Expat Explore

Day 1 Barcelona

Hola! Welcome to Barcelona, Spain. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting around 6 pm followed by a vermouth aperitivo to whet your appetite for the adventure ahead. If you arrive early, why not use this time to get your bearings. There are plenty of galleries, cafes and historic corners to keep you busy. Perhaps take the funicular to the top of Montjuic or Tibidabo for panoramic views of the harbour. After the welcome meeting, maybe head out for some tapas with your fellow travellers so you can get to know them – your group leader will have all the best recommendations on where to go.

Day 2 Barcelona / Girona

Say good morning to Barcelona before heading out with your group on a leader-led orientation walk of the city, sampling a favourite local treat along the way. Then exploring the city at your own pace, why not visit Gaudi's La Sagrada Familia Basilica – possibly the most iconic landmark in Barcelona. Or, head to Park Guell – the largest green space in the city, where you can stroll through the gardens and explore more of the incredible architectural work by Gaudi. This afternoon you’ll make your way to the train station, where you’ll head off to the city of Girona. Arriving in the early evening, your leader will take you on a walk through the city. Then, you have the chance to explore at your leisure. This jewel of Catalonia is known for its medieval architecture, sitting alongside the Onyar River. Make sure you get the best local dinner recommendations from your leader tonight!

Day 3 Girona

Head off with your group this morning for a walk along the medieval walls of the city. Originally built by the Romans, and then rebuilt and extended in the Middle Ages, these walls have stood watch over the city since the 14th century. From the walkway along the top, the city of Gerona spreads out beneath you, giving you a birds-eye view over the streets and houses, the river and the iconic cathedral and bell tower of San Felix. This afternoon is yours to explore the city. Why not take a visit to the Arabic Baths or stop at the Rocambolesc Gelateria where you can grab a cup or cone of some of Spain’s finest gelato. Fancy yourself a bit of a TV buff? Several scenes of HBO’s Game of Thrones were filmed in the city! Chat to your leader about joining a Game of Thrones walking tour and find yourself transported to the streets of Braavos and King’s Landing.

Day 4 Nimes / Avignon

Leaving the city after breakfast, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Nimes. Arriving in the town of southeastern France, your leader will take you on a walk through the town, giving you the lay of the land before your free time to explore at your own pace. Why not chat to your leader about visiting the famous Amphitheatre of Nimes – one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in Europe, built around the year AD 100. This evening, take the train to Avignon. When you arrive, check in to your hotel and take a walk around a walled city that was once home to French popes for more than a century.

Day 5 Avignon

Waking up in Avignon, your leader will take you for an orientation walk, through the markets where you’ll find fresh produce that’s locally grown in the fertile soil surrounding the city. After, explore the local sites at your own pace. Maybe comb the city's impressive collection of art, visit the grand Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace) or cross the iconic bridge of Pont St-Benezet. You could even hire a bike to see more of this picturesque valley and head to one of the city's amazing bakeries. There are also many small local bistros that serve up great regional cuisine – why not get some of your travel pals together for a French-inspired feast.

Day 6 Beaune

This morning, you’ll be heading by train to the city of Beaune. In the heart of France’s Burgundy wine region, this little town packs a punch. Following a leader led walk through the town, this afternoon you can explore the town's rich history of food and wine production. Ask your leader about visiting the Caves Patriarche – the largest cellars in the Bourgogne wine region, located in the 17th century former convent of Les Vistandines. Here, you’ll find several million bottles of wine, some of which are from the most prestigious winemaking names in the region. Continuing your exploration of the town, see if you can find a fresh bread vending machine, or visit the incredible Hospices de Beaune. Founded in 1443 and originally a hospital that offered care to the less fortunate, it is now a museum and the host of an annual charity wine auction.

Day 7 Paris

Leaving Beaune, travel by train to the city of light and love – Paris, of course! Rich in museums, art galleries, monuments, fashion and delicious food, Paris offers a wealth of major sights and things to do. When you arrive, check into the hotel and then join your leader for an orientation walk through the famous city streets before exploring at your leisure. Wandering around the Champs-Elysees, the student-filled Latin Quarter, or bohemian Montmartre will give you a good feel for the city. There is so much to do in Paris that it might be a good idea to make a plan before you arrive, so you can get to see all you want! Don’t know where to start? Check in with your leader for tons of advice and tips on how to make the most of your time in this incredible city.

Day 8 Paris

Enjoy another free day to explore Paris. If you didn’t get the chance already, why not spend today checking out the world-famous Louvre, where you can see the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Maybe climb the Eiffel Tower – or take the lift – for some impressive aerial views of Paris. For a simple picnic lunch of baguette and cheese, The Tuileries, Plantes and Jardin du Luxembourg all make excellent backdrops. Later, you’ll have a second meeting with the new members of your group at 6 pm. After you meet your fellow travellers and trip leader, you might choose to head out for an optional dinner at one of the gorgeous local restaurants or explore the surrounding neighbourhoods and further discover why this city is known for its romantic appeal.

Day 9 Brussels

Leave Paris behind and jump on a train to Brussels, where your leader will take you on a walk around the city, and you can enjoy some traditional Belgian fries. After, explore at your own pace. Maybe wander down to the Manneken Pis (Little Peeing Man) – an iconic symbol of Belgium. If you’re interested in music, a must-see place is The Musical Instrument Museum. Three floors of musical instruments coming from every corner of the world and hundreds of years of musical history in one place. If you feel like a night out, Ilot Sacre is a great place to find good food and fun bars. Perhaps visit the iconic Atomium – a silver structure built in 1958 for the Brussels World’s Fair. As always, you can chat to your leader for advice – it’s why they’re here!

Day 10 Bruges

This morning, enjoy some free time in Brussels, before making your way to the train station in the early afternoon to head to your next destination – Bruges. Arriving mid-afternoon, your leader will take you around the city to give you the lay of the land before you explore at your own speed. Wander along the picturesque river this evening, watching the city illuminate around you in the setting sun. Your leader will be able to give you the best recommendations for dinner spots tonight, or maybe even where you can find the best beer in town.

Day 11 Bruges

Today you have a free day to explore Bruges. This town on the coast of Belgium looks like it's been plucked straight from the pages of a fairytale, and there’s so much to see and explore. Why not take a stroll through the UNESCO Protected Old Town, starting in the iconic Burg square. Right in the centre of town, this square is home to a mix of Gothic, Renaissance and neoclassicism architecture, and features the town hall, which was built in the 14th century. Don’t forget to check out the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which is said to be home to a vial of cloth stained with a drop of the blood of Jesus. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, hunt down the best bowl of moules-frites – a Flemish classic of mussels cooked in white wine and served with a side of crunchy fries.

Day 12 Antwerp - Amsterdam

Bid Bruges a fond farewell as you hop on the train and head to Antwerp. Your leader will take you around the city to help you get your bearings before you have the chance to explore on your own. Why not visit the Het Steen Castle – a medieval fortress in the Old City centre. Built in the early 1200s and with towering walls and turrets, it’s not hard to imagine knights on horseback and princesses wandering through the castle grounds. Then, jump back on the train and cross another border into the capital of the Netherlands – Amsterdam! Arriving in the evening, why not find somewhere for dinner and plan your time in the city. The best way to get your head around Amsterdam is to do as locals do and cycle. Amsterdam is a network of canals, bridges and parks perfect for exploring on a bike. If you’re an art-lover, Amsterdam is home to plenty of museums. One of its best is the Rijksmuseum, which houses one of Rembrandt’s most famous works – 'The Night Watch'. Alternatively, the Van Gogh Museum, which comprises nearly every painting, sketch, print, etching and piece of correspondence that Van Gogh ever produced, including 'Sunflowers'.

Day 13 Amsterdam

This morning, your leader will show you around Amsterdam before your free day to explore. You could visit Anne Frank's House – the former hiding place of the famous child diarist and her family during WWII, which has now been preserved as a museum. Or, perhaps visit the De Waag – a 15th-century building on Nieuwmarkt Square first constructed as a gate for the city’s fortified walls. For a snack, pannekoeken will go down a treat – sometimes sweet, sometimes savoury, but always delicious! You could order some salty fries, taste some of the rich cheeses on offer, or discover the local café culture. A popular activity is to bask in the glory of liquid sunshine – visit the best bars, breweries and beer halls of this brew-loving city with some new travel pals. From a place where nuns used to brew ales, to the mothership of Dutch beer brewing (the original Heineken building) you can go on a tasting tour of the Netherlands’ strong beer history.

Day 14 Berlin

Rise bright and early this morning before jumping on the train to Berlin. Today is a long travel day, so grab a window seat if you can. Berlin has plenty of impressive sites and is known for a great bar scene. Get some of the best recommendations and must-see spots from your leader while you make your way towards the city. Arriving in the evening, your leader will show you around and share all the insider tips and tricks, like where to find the best schnitzel for dinner and the best beers to celebrate a trip well-travelled!

Day 15 Berlin

After yesterday’s late arrival, today is free for you to get your bearings in Berlin. You may like to take a Spree River cruise, visit the multiple museums and galleries at Kulturforum Potsdamer Platz or stop by the impressive Berliner Dom Cathedral. Tonight, you’ll have another meeting with the new members of your group at 6 pm. After, why not join your newfound travel pals for dinner? Berlin’s food is a mix of classic German with Bavarian, Italian and Middle Eastern influences. But who can go past a traditional schnitzel or pretzel together with a stein of beer?

Day 16 Berlin

Set out to discover more of Berlin in detail today, as you’ll have free time to enjoy it as you please. There are plenty of impressive sites for you to check out – the Brandenburg Gate, remnants of the Berlin Wall and the dominating Reichstag building – either on your own, during a bike tour or all at once from the observation deck of the Berlin TV Tower. There are also a couple of unique memorials, like the Jewish Memorial and the Topography of Terror, which are well worth your time. Tonight, maybe explore Berlin’s thriving foodie scene with a few dinner suggestions from your leader.

Day 17 Dresden - Bastei

This morning, say goodbye to Berlin and hop on an early train to Dresden. After checking in to your accommodation, another quick train trip will take you to Rathen, where you can enjoy a hike to the sandstone pinnacles of Bastei. The unique rock formation offers some of Germany’s best views and is home to the remnants of the medieval Neurathen Castle. If a hike doesn’t take your fancy, you’re welcome to join in on the journey to Rathen and spend your time exploring the riverside village or stay in Dresden, immersing yourself in the city’s history and heritage.

Day 18 Prague

Leaving Germany behind, board the train to Prague. When you arrive, check-in at your hotel and then see the highlights of this beautiful city on a leader-led orientation walk. Prague's architecture can be traced from the Middle Ages through to the avant-garde of the Gehry-designed Dancing Building (also called the Fred and Ginger Building). Your walk will finish with a visit to a Czech brewery, where you can sample a pilsner in its homeland. Spend your free afternoon at Prague Castle – the biggest in the Czech Republic – where you'll find the famous St Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane. Continue to wander through the old Jewish Quarter to see what remains of the city's formerly significant Jewish community.

Day 19 Prague

Another day in Prague and so many possibilities! Perhaps learn how the Bohemian artists, writers, dissidents and the Bohemian mentality shaped the nation. Don’t forget to sample some traditional and modern Czech snacks along the way. If you feel like a day trip out of the city, ask your leader to help you organise a trip to Kutna Hora. See the Church of Santa Barbara and Sedlec ossuary or The Church of Bones – a small Roman Catholic chapel that contains the skeletons of between 40,000 and 70,000 people. At night, Prague’s Old Town comes alive with many great restaurants and pubs, some in old vaulted cellars. The nightlife in Prague is also some of the best in Central Europe. Whether you're after dance clubs, beer halls, jazz clubs or underground absinthe bars, there's something for everyone.

Day 20 Bratislava

Leave Prague and travel to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Set along the Danube, Bratislava blends past and present with its charming Old Town and lively boutiques and cafes. You have a free day to explore it all today. You could climb to the top of the tower at Michael’s Gate or UFO Tower for a bird’s eye view of Bratislava, visit the Bratislava City Museum to learn about the country’s communist past or spot as many of the city’s quirky statues as you can. For dinner, maybe seek out some local delicacies like kapustnica (a sauerkraut and sausage soup) – your leader will have the lowdown on the best spots.

Day 21 Budapest

Transfer from Bratislava to Budapest and enjoy a free day in the self-proclaimed Pearl of the Danube. Perhaps explore the historical Buda Castle and palace complex. Forget about the bustling city and lose yourself in the history of the winding streets of the Castle District, which dates back to the 13th century. In the afternoon, you could take a slow cruise along the Danube for some pretty epic views of the riverside Parliament Building, the Castle District and the bridges linking Buda to Pest. The spectacle is particularly beautiful, especially at sunset and at night.

Day 22 Budapest

Today, you’ll have another meeting with the new members of your group at 6 pm. Before then, the day is yours. Why not stroll around the grand architecture and boulevards to get your bearings? Maybe explore one of the local markets and pick up a langos (a deep-fried Hungarian pastry with an assortment of different toppings). Why not head out to Statue Park to get an insight into the city’s past or take a soak in one of the many thermal bath complexes around town? After the meeting tonight, perhaps get a group of friends together for a Hungarian feast of goulash or stroll to the Jewish quarter and check out some ruin bars – unique nightlife hubs that are great for groups and feature a whole heap of weird and wonderful decor.

Day 23 Vienna

Hop on a train this morning to the cosmopolitan city of Vienna. After dropping your bags at your accommodation, you’re in for a real treat! Stop for kaffe and kuchen (coffee and cake) with your group at Vollpension – a local cafe that empowers older members of the community by providing them with employment and purpose, while bridging the gap between the staff and the younger patrons who visit the cafe. Have a chat with the friendly staff while enjoying your sweet treat in this warm and welcoming environment. 

Day 24 Vienna

You’re free to choose your own adventure today, and Vienna has a lot to offer! Art lovers will be delighted by the vast array of museums, including the Albertina, the Leopold, Kunsthalle Wien and the Museum of Modern Art. Those interested in 19th- and 20th-century Austrian art should visit the Belvedere Palace – home to Gustav Klimt's painting 'The Kiss'. Check out the colourful Hundertwasserhaus or admire the dome of the Secession building. Perhaps visit Hofburg Palace – once the imposing winter retreat of Habsburg royals and now the official residence of the Austrian president, or visit the gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the neo-classical Graben. If you want to see something impressive, head to the State Opera House – one of the world's most important opera houses and the heart of classical Viennese culture. 

Day 25 Salzburg

Travel to Salzburg this morning via train – this Austrian hub on the border of Germany is backdropped by the Eastern Alps and divided by the Salzach River. When you arrive, you’ll have a full free day to explore all this gorgeous city has to offer, from the Old City to the New City. Maybe head to Mirabell Palace and Gardens for a picnic or discover Mozart’s birthplace. Head to the medieval walls of Fortress Hohensalzburg and marvel at the architecture (you can also pay to get inside) or find a great viewpoint and snap some epic photos of the city in the shadow of the mountains, with the fortress looming above on the hill. Tonight, why not ask your local leader for the best spot for dinner?

Day 26 Bled

Travel to the stunning Slovenian resort town of Bled today. Sitting at the edge of the Julian Alps, this place is full of picturesque sights that are sure to take your breath away. When you arrive, follow your leader to the shore of glistening Lake Bled, from which many of the town’s attractions can be seen, and walk along the shoreline. After soaking in the sights with your group, you’ll have a free afternoon to choose your own route. For a taste of the local cuisine, try some Bled cake made of vanilla, custard, cream and pastry (many local cafes and cake shops claim theirs is the best, so if you must, maybe try a few and compare). After settling into your accommodation tonight, why not get together with your group for dinner, feasting on local specialities?

Day 27 Bled

There’s no better place to get active than in Bled! Today you have a free day to enjoy all the fun activities Bled has to offer (calling all nature lovers!) Maybe take a full-day adventure around Triglav Massive – there are many outdoor activities available here to get the blood pumping, such as rafting, caving, canoeing and swimming. Why not hire a bike and head four kilometres out of town to Vintgar Gorge, where you can walk through a beautiful natural canyon. Perhaps explore Bled Castle, perched atop the cliff overlooking the lake, or catch a pletna (small wooden boat) over to the island in the middle of the lake to ring the wishing bell. Your leader will have all the best options, so be sure to chat with them for their recommendations. If you’d prefer to have a relaxing day and just enjoy the beauty of Lake Bled, find a quiet spot near the lake and spend the day reading or people-watching.

Day 28 Venice

Travel by train and local bus through stunning scenery to one of the world's most unique cities today – postcard-perfect Venice. A city of canals, Venice is built over a hundred small islands connected by 400 bridges. When you arrive, head out for an orientation walk with your tour leader – the best way to see Venice is by foot – passing by the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, Palace of the Doge, Piazza San Marco and the Bridge of Sighs. Wander the cobblestone streets and spacious piazzas, crossing bridges and stopping for a gelato on your way, if the moment calls. There are shops, markets, galleries and churches around every corner here, so there’s plenty to explore. Tonight, what better to do than tuck into some iconic Italian cuisine (and maybe a big glass of vino?).

Day 29 Venice

Today you’re free to dive deeper into Venice. You might browse the endless amounts of boutique shops in Piazza San Marco that sell Venetian masks and handmade Murano glassware, sample the sweet Venetian treats on sale at Ca Grifalconi Market or venture back to the stores that line Rialto Bridge. Later, you’ll have a final meeting at 6 pm. After, maybe enjoy an optional dinner with your new travel companions at a local restaurant.

Day 30 Venice

This morning, head out for an orientation walk of the city and marvel at the Classical, Gothic, and Baroque styles of architecture surrounding San Marco Square. Your leader will show you where to get the best cicchetti today, a tasty local snack that Venice is famous for. For lunch, maybe get involved in the lively social scene at a local bácaro or simply watch the world go by at a restaurant perched on the edge of the canals. Then you’re free to explore Venice at your own pace. There are only two ways to get around this city – on foot or by boat. Maybe take the Vaporetto (water bus) over to the island of San Giorgio to climb the bell tower for views over the city. Or fulfil a bucket list favourite and take a journey down the Grand Canal in a Venetian gondola if you haven’t already. 

Day 31 La Spezia

Board a morning train through the scenic north of Italy to the once important naval base of La Spezia (approximately 6–7 hours). La Spezia is known mainly as the gateway to the gorgeous Cinque Terre (Five Lands). The name comes from the five tiny villages – Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore – positioned on a series of coves between sheer cliffs. On arrival in La Spezia there won't be too much time to explore (that’s what tomorrow is for), but after checking into your hotel perhaps get your bearings with a short walk around the pedestrian zone on Via del Prione or head out for dinner with the group.

Day 32 Cinque Terre / La Spezia

Spend today exploring winding footpaths and pastel coloured villages with your included Cinque Terre Pass. Your leader will walk you to two of the five villages, and the pass gives you access to the paths and trains of the area for 24 hours. Please consult your leader on which walking section is right for you, as some have challenging uphill stretches, narrow paths, steep cliffs and foot bridges. Alternatively, take the train between any of the villages, or back to the group's base in La Spezia whenever you want. After working up an appetite, maybe take advantage of an optional pesto class. Focaccia is also a speciality in this area and makes a great start to lunch, if you’d prefer.

Day 33 Florence

Depart La Spezia today and catch a train to Florence (approximately 2.5 hours). On arrival, check into the hostel and go for a brief walk around the immediate area to get your bearings. Florence is one of the most culturally rich and beautiful cities in Italy, known to many as the beating heart of Tuscany. The Medicis, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Brunelleschi, Machiavelli, Donatello and Michelangelo all lived in Florence at the height of their creative reign. Food is a major part of the city's identity and the optional activities on offer reflect this. Maybe explore the city’s culinary history (and taste some local treats) on a Florence Foodies Walk with Urban Adventures. Carnivores might be drawn to try the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, the Florentine Beef Steak, essentially a huge T-bone steak that comes with classic sides.

Day 34 Florence

Enjoy another day in beautiful Florence. It's impossible to see everything in this Renaissance wonderland, so the best idea is to relax and pick a few things you really want to do. Maybe start with a visit to the Galleria dell'Accademia where you can see Michelangelo's famous statue of David, or perhaps stop by the Uffizi, one of the world's oldest art galleries. Active types might want to walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo, which is set on a hill on the south bank of the Arno River, to take in beautiful views of the city – a lovely way to while away the day. There are plenty of optional activities on offer during your time here, so be sure to grill your leader for the details on each so you can get a sense of what interests you.

Day 35 Rome

Take the morning train to Rome (approximately 2 hours). Join your leader on an orientation walk around the city to see icons such as the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. Phew. After all that walking it’s probably time for lunch. Maybe grab a slice of the good stuff and a strong espresso at the Piazza Navona. You can spend your afternoon how you wish and there are plenty of heavy hitters to choose from. Maybe enter the Vatican and check out St Peter's Basilica. Within the Vatican, art lovers could visit the Sistine Chapel to admire the timeless work of Michelangelo, while history buffs may enjoy a jaunt through the ancient halls of the Pantheon. Rome is packed full of trattorias that cater to every taste and budget, so this evening maybe link up with the group for dinner.

Day 36 Rome

Your adventures come to an end today. There are no activities planned and you're free to depart the accommodation at any time after check-out. As there is so much to see in Rome, we recommend you stay a little longer to soak it up. We are happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Please speak to an agent at the time of booking.

Day 1: Amsterdam

Welcome to the start of your tour! Arriving in Amsterdam, you'll meet your tour leader at the hotel. Once you've settled in, we'll head in to the centre of Amsterdam to experience the wonders of this fascinating city with an Amsterdam canal dinner cruise. Get on board and have those cameras at the ready – this is the best way to be introduced to Amsterdam, a city of beautiful 17th Century architecture, and a charm all its own. Watch the city drift past as you sail by, and listen out for tips and interesting insights into the city from your tour leader. The evening is yours free to explore the canals some more, head to Dam Square, and maybe even wander through Amsterdam's iconic Red Light District!

Experiences
Amsterdam Canal Cruise. Sail along Amsterdam's stunning canals at twilight and enjoy a delicious pizza as you cruise.  A perfect  introduction to Amsterdam you will cruise along Amsterdam's atmospheric canals. Choose from different types of pizza, enjoy Ben and Jerry's ice cream,  and you can also upgrade to include unlimited soft drinks, beer and wine.
 

Accommodation
Hampton by Hilton Schipol Airport
Holiday Inn Express Schipol Airport
Park Inn Plaza Amsterdam Airport
Crowne Plaza Amsterdam Schiphol
Lake land Hotel
Other Foods to try
Dutch Kroket, cheese, bitterballen and pastries!
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 2: Amsterdam - Rhine Valley

This morning, we’ll take a look at a cheese-making demonstration, revealing how cheese has been made in the traditional way in these parts for many years. Following that, we’ll learn about that most quirky of Dutch footwear choices – the clog – and see how these traditional shoes are carved. Stopping off at a windmill for a photo stop, you’ll be able to appreciate the iconic scenery of the Netherlands. If the season is right, look out for flowers in the fields! Continuing on to the Rhine Valley, we’ll board a Rhine Valley river boat and cruise the Rhine River. With the highest concentration of medieval castles in all of Europe, this is a memorable trip, especially with all the vineyards, cliff faces and medieval German towns! Once the cruise is over we'll visit a local wine merchants for an included wine tasting - if the harvest has been good, you may even get to try eiswein (ice wine), a very sweet dessert wine that is produced in very small quantities as it can only be harvested when the temperature drops below freezing.

Experiences
River Cruise. Cruise down the Rhine and see the beautiful scenery and the largest concentration of Gothic castles (Sterrenberg, Liebestein, Katz and Fortess Rheinfels).
Rhine Valley Wine Tasting: visit a local wine merchants in one of Germany's most famous wine growing regions, and sample several types of delicious German wine. Popular varieties from the surrounding area and neighbouring regions include Riesling, Spätburgunder and Pinot Noir. The region is also well-known for eiswein (ice wine), a very sweet dessert wine made from grapes harvested in the freezing winter months.

Accommodation
Rheinlust
Ibis Bonn
Hotel Weiland
InterCity Bonn
Other Foods to try
The Rheingau, one of Germany's distinguished wine regions, stretches along the Rhine between Lorch and Hockenheim. Try Riesling and Eiswein.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 3: Ulm - Innsbruck

Today, we're off to Innsbruck, Austria, taking a comfort stop in Ulm on the way. This historic German city is famous not only as the birthplace of Albert Einstein, but also for having the tallest church steeple in the world! Innsbruck is one of the few places in the world that really can lay claim to having something for everyone. It's not everywhere that offers extreme sports (thanks to the close proximity of the soaring Nordkette Alps), fascinating historical heritage (courtesy of the legacy of the Habsburgs), and vibrant modern attractions too. Your tour leader will introduce you to the city on a quick orientation tour, and then give you free time to explore further. This evening, you can join the optional Tyrol folk evening and dinner.

Experiences
Visit Ulm. Enjoy a comfort stop in this German city, famous as the birthplace of Einstein and for having the tallest church steeple in the world!
Free time in Innsbruck. Enjoy some free time in this historic city; visit the old town square or take the cable car to the peak of Nordkette.
Optional Excursions
Tyrol Folk Evening & Dinner €45
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Accommodation
AlpinPark Hotel Innsbruck
Other Foods to try
Wiener Schnitzel, beef soup and Apfelstrudel.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 4: Innsbruck - Verona - Venice

Leaving Innsbruck behind us, we journey onward to the enchanting city of Venice, stopping along the way in Verona. The setting for the most famous love story of all time, Romeo & Juliet, one can seek out the balcony where Romeo reportedly wooed his lover. The timeless waterways and artistic masterpieces (more per square kilometre than anywhere else on earth) of Venice make it truly unique – this is a city that will capture your heart and imagination. Being Italian, there’s no shortage of incredible food and culture either! You’ll start your stay in Venice with an orientation tour; see St Mark's Square, the famous Rialto Bridge and the beautiful narrow alleyway. The evening is yours to explore this unforgettable city. If you wish to take part in the true Venice experience, your tour leader can organise a traditional gondola ride along the canals, as well as a water taxi!

Experiences
Comfort stop in Verona. Make the most of your time by strolling around this famous town, where the epic love tragedy Romeo and Juliet was set, and where you can still see the balcony where Romeo supposedly wooed his darling Juliet.
Walking Tour of Venice. Take in the incredible architecture of this legendary city, and get to know see of those famous landmarks in person! From the Rialto Bridge to St Mark's square, it's all here - in the city with more artistic masterpieces per square kilometer than anywhere else on earth!
 
Optional Excursions
Venice Gondola Ride €20
Venice Water Taxi €20
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Accommodation
Elite Residence Hotel
NH Laguna Palace
Hotel Complex Ambasciatori & Delfino
Hotel Venezia
Other Foods to try
Pizza. Thin, crispy, fresh basil and delicious toppings!
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 5: Venice - Lucerne - Lake Lucerne

We're on our way back into Alpine territory once again today as we continue on to Lucerne. Renowned as one of Switzerland's most beautiful cities, this is one place you'll definitely want to have your camera at the ready! All the ingredients for the quintessentially picturesque Swiss experience are here - a cobalt lake and well-preserved old-town complete with waterfront promenades, covered bridges and perfect plazas is surrounded by the natural skyscrapers of the Swiss Alps. It's really no wonder that Goethe, Queen Victoria and Wagner savoured the stunning views that Lucerne has to offer. After a short orientation tour with your tour leader, you'll have some free time to explore at your leisure, before we jump back on the coach and drive to our wellness resort hotel in Weggis, on the shores of Lake Lucerne.

Experiences
Free time in Lucerne. You will have some free time to enjoy this picturesque Alpine city. From the beautiful Chapel Bridge lined with flowers, to the cobalt blue lake and well-preserved old town, Lucerne is a feast for the eyes.
 
Optional Excursions
Cruise across Lake Lucerne €15
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Accommodation
Wellness Hotel Roessli
Other Foods to try
Luzerner Chügelipastete is the most famous example of local cuisine: a puff-pastry shell filled with diced veal and mushrooms in a creamy sauce.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 6: Lake Lucerne - Burgundy

Before we travel onward to Burgundy, you'll have the morning to enjoy more of the Lucerne region - why not join our Mount Pilatus optional excursion? Whether you take the world's steepest cogwheel railway from Alpnachstad or the panoramic gondolas and aerial cableway from Kriens, you will travel up through lush meadows carpeted with Alpine flowers, past sparkling mountain streams and fascinating rock faces - the Mount Pilatus optional truly offers that unique Alpine experience! We then leave Switzerland behind and head west into France. If Paris is the place for romance, then Burgundy is the place for two other things the French - and France - are well-known for: great food and wine. You will be staying in the capital of Burgundy, Dijon. A place of tremendous wealth and power and one of the great European centres of art, learning and science, there is plenty to do in Dijon. Beyond the food and wine, this is also the place to soak up history, with excellent museums and fabulous Renaissance architecture helping to make this one of the most memorable parts of the entire tour!

Experiences
Burgundy. Enjoy one of the most famous wine regions of France.
Optional Excursions
Panorama Cable Car/Cogwheel Railway to Mount Pilatus €65
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Accommodation
Ibis Dijon Clemenceau
Campanile Dijon Centre Gare
Other Foods to try
Typical foods include cheese, Dijon mustard, Charolais beef and blackcurrants. Beef Burgundy, or Boeuf Bourguignon as it is known locally is the regional dish - a stew prepared with beef braised in red wine.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 7: Burgundy - Paris

The city of lights is our next stop, as we take in the home of some of the world's most famous cultural landmarks, museums, galleries, boutiques and more. On arrival we'll take you on a driving tour of the French capital; get your cameras ready - you’ll be seeing some of the city’s most treasured landmarks, including the Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe! After the driving tour we'll take an included cruise along the River Seine, sailing passed sights including the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, and enjoying a traditional French baguette lunch onboard. The afternoon is then yours to explore the French capital further, with optional excursions available including the Montparnasse Observation Deck for incredible views of Paris, and a traditional cabaret show.

Experiences
Driving Tour. Paris is probably the most sought-after destination in all of Europe, and it's easy to see why. Our driving tour will give you a brief introduction to the history of the city, and some of the famous landmarks. From ancient times to modern, Paris has a wealth of stories to tell. Take notes! There may be many places you'd like to see in more detail later.
Seine River Cruise: enjoy an included lunch onboard as we sail down the Seine, with an included commentary introducing you to the sights you will see on the banks, including the Louvre, Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame.
Optional Excursions
Cabaret Show €70-90
Montparnasse Observation Deck €15
An Evening in Montmartre €40
Montparnasse to Montmartre €60
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Accommodation
Ibis la Defense
B&B Porte Des Lilas
B&B Paris Malakof
Ibis Paris La Villette Cité des Sciences
B&B Paris Italie Porte de Choisy
B&B Hôtel Orly Chevilly
Other Foods to try
It's not all fine dining - visit a boulangerie (bakery) and try simple but delicious baguette, croisants and Jambon-beurre sandwiches.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 8: Brussels - Amsterdam

It's the last leg of our journey already! On our way back to the Dutch capital we stop in Brussels for a comfort stop and the chance to explore the Belgian capital. Sample typical Belgian fare (moules et frites, countless varieties of beer, and of course, that famous chocolate), or wander around. Perhaps grab some last-minute souvenirs for the folks back home? We will also take a photo stop at the incredible Atomium. Originally built for the 1958 World's Fair, this unique structure makes for a truly incredible selfie opportunity! After our comfort stop, we continue on to Amsterdam, where our tour officially ends. We hope you've enjoyed this whirlwind tour of Europe!

Experiences
Comfort stop in Brussels: On our way back to Amsterdam, enjoy the European capital on a comfort stop, you will have the opportunity to see the famous town square and sample the local cuisine, and take a photo of the Atomium.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner