European Adventures
16 Days from $2,350 per person
Embark on a grand adventure through Europe to the charming Dutch city of Amsterdam, historic Prague and the labyrinthine canals of Venice – your highlight will be a Rhine river cruise past hilltop castles, fairytale villages and vineyard-clad hills.
Overview
Embark on a grand adventure through Europe to the charming Dutch city of Amsterdam, historic Prague and the labyrinthine canals of Venice – your highlight will be a Rhine river cruise past hilltop castles, fairytale villages and vineyard-clad hills.
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Day 1: USA - Europe
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included). -
Day 2: Arrive London (2 Nights)
Relax after check-in or take a leisurely stroll through this fascinating city. -
Day 3: London Free Time
The day is yours to explore the delights of London. See the sights, visit a museum or go shopping – the list is endless and the choice is yours. -
Day 4: London – Amsterdam (2 Nights)
This morning meet your Travel Director and traveling companions to board your CostSaver coach and set off from London. Drive through Kent's scenic countryside to Dover. Admire the famous White Cliffs as you sail across the Channel to Calais, France. Continue by road through Belgium to The Netherlands, home of clogs and windmills. Perhaps take a canal cruise in a glass-topped boat and see the city from a unique perspective. -
Day 5: Amsterdam Orientation and Free Time
This morning in Amsterdam enjoy an orientation of the historic city center. Afterwards you will have free time to take in one of the fantastic museums that the city has to offer. -
Day 6: Amsterdam – Cologne – Rhineland
Drive into Germany and marvel at Cologne Cathedral. At Boppard embark on a relaxing cruise along the River Rhine past medieval hilltop castles and steep vineyards. Continue to your hotel where you dine this evening. -
Day 7: Rhineland – Nuremberg – Prague (2 Nights)
Stop in Nuremberg this morning, a historic city where little has changed since the Middle Ages. Drive east across the border into the Czech Republic and arrive in the capital, Prague. -
Day 8: Prague Sightseeing and Free Time
Your Local Specialist brings the history of this city to life during your sightseeing tour. Sights include Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle complex in Europe, the Cathedral of St. Vitus, views of Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square. -
Day 9: Prague – Regensburg – Munich
Cross back into Germany stopping in Regensburg on the River Danube. In Munich, capital of Bavaria, your orientation includes the Marienplatz, renowned for its musical Glockenspiel. You might like to visit a bierkeller and sample the local brew, for which the city is famous. -
Day 10: Munich – Innsbruck – Venice (2 Nights)
Head south towards the mountains and through Austria. Stop in Innsbruck to view the Golden Roof and the Hofburg. Continue across the Brenner Pass, one of the principal alpine highways, into Italy and south to Venice, Queen of the Adriatic. Tonight dine at your hotel. -
Day 11: Venice Orientation and Free Time
Evidence of Venice's glorious Byzantine history is all around as you cruise by private launch to St. Mark's Square. Admire the magnificent Doge's Palace, former home of Venice's ruling elite. Watch the Venetian craftsmen at work creating local specialties at a glassblowing workshop on Giudecca Island. Afterwards you have time to explore amazing narrow alleyways, historic bridges and canals. Later perhaps take the opportunity to cruise to Burano Island, the most picturesque island in the lagoon, for a delicious meal. -
Day 12: Venice – Lake Lucerne (2 Nights)
Traverse the plains of northern Italy and cross the border into Switzerland. Continue along the St. Gotthard route, with its spectacular views. See the chalets dotting the steep hillsides as you approach Lake Lucerne in the heart of central Switzerland. Dine tonight at your hotel. -
Day 13: Lake Lucerne Orientation and Free Time
Your orientation tour of Lucerne includes the medieval wooden Chapel Bridge and the poignant Lion Monument, built to commemorate the Swiss Guards who bravely defended Louis XVl during the French Revolution. There is time afterwards to shop for delicious chocolates and watches, relax or stroll beside the lake. Consider an optional trip up a mountain peak by cable car to admire the magnificent views. Later you might like to join in the fun at a Swiss Folklore Show. -
Day 14: Lake Lucerne – Paris (2 Nights)
Travel north-west through Basel into France, skirting the edge of the Vosges Mountains. Admire charming villages as you pass through the vineyards of Burgundy, France's most famous wine region. Arrive later in the glittering capital, Paris. This evening perhaps take a tour through this dazzling city or consider a Seine cruise.
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Day 15: Paris Orientation and Free Time
Paris probably has more recognisable landmarks than any other city in the world. See many major sights during your orientation including the Champs Élysées, Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. The rest of the day is yours to explore. This evening you might like to celebrate the end of your vacation with a famous Parisian cabaret show.
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Day 16: Depart Paris
After breakfast say farewell to your fellow travelers at the end of your vacation. Return transfers on the last travel day will arrive at Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport at 8 am. Conditions apply.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
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| 12 Jul 18 | 27 Jul 18 |
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$2,350pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 23 Aug 18 | 7 Sep 18 |
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$2,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 30 Aug 18 | 14 Sep 18 |
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$2,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 6 Sep 18 | 21 Sep 18 |
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$2,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 13 Sep 18 | 28 Sep 18 |
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$2,620pp | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Triple Room Discount: $10 p.p.
Airport Transfers: A return transfer on the last day will arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport at 8:00 am.
Complimentary London Return: Guests are welcome to return to London by motor coach at no extra cost. Additional accommodations will be required as arrival in London will be late afternoon/early evening. Please speak to your Travel Agent about this at time of booking.
Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $127 per person.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Breakfast Daily
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Hotel Tips
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Personal Flight Options
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
Meal Summary
2 Full breakfasts, 12 Buffet breakfasts, 4 Three course dinners, .Sightseeing Highlights
- See the White Cliffs
- See the historic city center
- View the cathedral
- Cruise the romantic Rhine
- See the medieval town
- Walking tour with your Local Specialist includes views of Prague Castle and views of the Charles Bridge
- View the Olympic Stadium and Marienplatz
- View the Golden Roof and Hofburg
- Cruise by private boat to St. Mark's Square. Visit a traditional glassblowing workshop on Giudecca Island
- Drive this scenic alpine route
- Visit the Lion Monument and view the Chapel Bridge
- Sightseeing includes views of the Champs Élysées, Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to Europe must have a current passport valid for six months beyond the conclusion of their trip. You can find information on how to apply for a passport here, and how to renew a passport here. No visa is required for U.S. citizens entering countries in the Schengen Area, the UK, Ireland, or Croatia.
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Currency
The currency for most countries you will visit in Europe is the Euro (€). Several exceptions apply including the Pound (£) in Great Britain and Northern Ireland; the Swiss Franc (CHF) in Switzerland and the Czech Koruna (CZK) in the Czech Republic.
While it’s a good idea to bring some money for when you first arrive, you’ll usually find a better exchange rate in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
English specialties include fish and chips, Yorkshire pudding, sausages, stilton cheese, and scones with clotted cream. Culinary experiences to not to miss include a traditional pub meal, afternoon tea, and full English breakfast.
Traditional German cuisine is rich and delicious. Try specialties including a variety of bratwurst with sauerkraut, cold cuts, spätzle and potato dumplings. For dessert you cannot miss the world famous Black Forest Gateau. Beer is a big part of German culture; sample a variety of German offerings including pilsner, Kölsch and sour beers. In Frankfurt, try the local cider (Apfelwein). Wine is also popular throughout Germany, and world-class whites are produced in the Rhine and Mosel regions.
Dutch cuisine is simple and rustic. You might like to try specialties such as rookworst (smoked sausage), kibbeling (fried fish), and pannenkoeken (Dutch pancakes). And, if you’re feeling adventurous you can try local raw herring prepared with onions and gherkins. For something sweet, try stroopwafels, a delicious chewy cookie made with two thin layers of waffle and sticky syrup filling.
The French have an ongoing love affair with food and wine. Meals are lovingly prepared and consumed leisurely through a bevy of appetizers and main courses, usually accompanied by a number of wines. Boeuf bourgignon (beef stew with wine, herbs and vegetables), coq au vin (chicken cooked with bacon in a white wine and herb sauce) and bouillabaisse (fish stew) are featured on many menus. Cheese lovers will not be disappointed with hundreds of varieties to choose from. And no visit would be complete without a visit to a pâtisserie, with its delicate pastries you will definitely be tempted.
While Italy is most famous for pizza and pasta, few travelers are aware of just how varied the country’s culinary offering actually are. Traditionally, lunch (pranzo) is the most substantial meal of the day. A full meal consists of antipasto (starter), a primo piatto (pasta, rice or soup), a secondo piatto (meat or fish) with a side, or contorno (vegetable or salad), then frutta (fresh fruit). Finish with espresso and maybe a limoncello or grappa. Wine is usually served with the meal, accompanied by mineral water.
Swiss cuisine is a flavorful blend of German, Italian, and French influences and a wide variety of regional offerings. Specialty dishes include fondue and raclette (cheese dipping dishes), sausages and rösti (fried potato), bündnerfleisch (air-dried beef) and fondue bourguigon (cubes of steak with various sauces). Swiss pastries and desserts are excellent. There are also spirits made from fruit; the most popular are Kirsch, Pflümli and Williamine. And don’t miss out on the world-class selection of Swiss chocolate.
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Packing
We suggest bringing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. A few important items to bring include sturdy walking shoes and a waterproof jacket with a hood. Keep in mind that your shoulders and knees should be covered while visiting religious sites. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
Tipping through-out Europe is less common or generous than it is in the United States. Some countries will add a service charge of up to 15%, so be sure to check your bill before leaving extra. In most places it is appropriate to leave a few euros or between 5% and 10% for exceptional service. Keep in mind you will likely want to leave cash on the table to ensure your server receives it.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Lucerne
Alpine Farm & Carriage Ride
Adult Price: CHf67.00 | Child Price: €44.00
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 working farm where you’ll savour local drinks and snacks.
Prague
Prague By Night With Dinner Cruise
Adult Price: €57.00 | Child Price: €55.00
Discover the illuminated medieval architecture of Prague by night on an evening river cruise through the Old City, with dinner and drinks included. Later, explore more of this enchanting city with our Local Specialist, enjoying Prague at it's illuminated best.
Paris
Nouvelle Eve Cabaret And Dinner
Adult Price: €139.00 | Child Price: €55.00
One of the oldest and most elegant revue theatres in Paris, Nouvelle Eve is a hidden gem, where you’ll meet the Director and two of the cast members before enjoying a four-course dinner with wine. You will then experience unparalleled Parisian entertainment – including the world-famous Can-Can.
Munich
Bavarian Evening
Adult Price: €65.00 | Child Price: €55.00
Munich is the heart of Bavaria and it's fuelled by some of the best food and drink in the country. See the Hofbräuhaus before you enjoy a selection of traditional Bavarian dishes in a typical local restaurant and absorb the atmosphere of a real Bavarian beer hall.
Lucerne
Mount Stanserhorn And Lake Cruise
Adult Price: CHf112.00 | Child Price: €44.00
Take a scenic cruise with us across Lake Lucerne to Stans, and one of Switzerland's oldest mountain railways. Travelling by railway and Cabrio cable car, we'll reach 1900m (6300ft), where you’ll have free time to admire the stunning Alpine scenery and enjoy some refreshments. (On certain departures Optional may be operated in reverse, ending with the cruise.)
Lucerne
Traditional Folklore Show With Lunch
Adult Price: CHf68.00 | Child Price: €44.00
Enjoy a delicious lunch (including cheese fondue and one drink) as you listen to yodelling and Alpine horn-blowing, during a lively folklore show of typical Swiss entertainment.
Venice
Magical Venice
Adult Price: €70.00 | Child Price: €55.00
We’ll cruise along the Grand Canal by private water taxis admiring the elegant Palazzos and Rialto Bridge before arriving at stunning St. Mark Square. You’ll enjoy a romantic gondola journey along canals full of character and colour, while musicians and singers entertain.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam Discovery And Canal Cruise
Adult Price: €35.00 | Child Price: €55.00
Absolutely the best way to see Amsterdam’s wonderful sights! A private cruise by glass-roofed boat travels the historic canal ring, showing imposing warehouses, stately merchant homes, houseboats & bridges. Then, on foot with our Local Specialist, explore the heart of the city, including the not-to-be-missed coffeehouses and shop-windows of the Red Light District!
Paris
Notre Dame And Latin Quarter
Adult Price: €33.00 | Child Price: €55.00
A guided drive through Paris' bohemian Left Bank with our Local Specialist brings us to amazing Notre Dame to discover one of the world's most famous Cathedrals and the epitome of Gothic architecture. Afterwards, take a stroll through the delightful Latin Quarter, a medieval maze of winding cobblestone alleyways where you'll have free time to enjoy the sidewalk bistros, boutiques and hidden squares.
Paris
Moulin Rouge Cabaret And Dinner
Adult Price: €162.00 | Child Price: €55.00
Enjoy dinner and cabaret, including wine and champagne, at the world-famous Moulin Rouge – the original Paris cabaret. Immortalized by the award-winning film of the same name, this Parisian institution features 60 dancers and entertainers and over 1000 costumes!
Venice
Lagoon Cruise to Burano with Food and Drinks
Adult Price: €70.00 | Child Price: €55.00
Join us as we discover the Venetian Lagoon by private boat. You will enjoy a delicious meal with a selection of drinks on the fishermen's island of Burano, famous for its multi-coloured houses - a real photographer's paradise.
Amsterdam
Dinner In A Historic Dutch House
Adult Price: €63.00 | Child Price: €55.00
Join us for a delicious meal of Dutch specialities, including drinks, in the elegant surroundings of this historic house.
Paris
Seine Cruise And Paris Illuminations
Adult Price: €38.00 | Child Price: €55.00
Paris at night is a city transformed. Enjoy this superb 'City of Light' on a leisurely cruise along the River Seine. Afterwards, as we drive through this amazing city, we’ll stop at some vantage points for you to capture the fascinating sights on camera. In summer, this trip may take place before sunset.
Prague
Traditional Dinner In Prague
Adult Price: €58.00 | Child Price: €55.00
If you appreciate great food and music, join us for an evening at one of our favourite local restaurants. A wonderful opportunity to say goodbye to glorious Prague.
Amsterdam
Dutch Farms, Volendam and Windmill
Adult Price: €30.00 | Child Price: €55.00
On this trip to the reclaimed polderlands around the former Zuider Zee, we start by visiting a cheese farm and wooden shoe-maker. Our next highlight is visiting a working windmill, with a tour by the miller himself! We continue to Volendam for free time in the lovely fishing village with its old harbour, wooden houses and locals dressed in traditional costume.
Prague
Secrets of Jewish Prague
Adult Price: €43.00 | Child Price: €55.00
Explore the cobbled streets of Prague’s ghetto district as you discover the mysteries that abound. We'll visit the moving Jewish cemetery, fascinating synagogues and hear the engaging tales of this slice of Prague’s history.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
