Amsterdam wears its warmth with pride, and it is this gezelligheid you’ll come to remember long after you visit this leafy Dutch city. There’s time to join an Optional Experience to see the city from its picturesque waterways. Board an optional private canal cruise in a glass-topped boat and watch life in this vibrant city unfold.
It won’t take long to fall in love with the Dutch capital and you’ll have a full day to fall even deeper as you explore its history, culture and art. Your orientation tour will take you past gabled houses, countless canals, and a leafy plein or two. Dodge the trams and bicycles as you explore on your own later or perhaps join an Optional Experience to Volendam where the Dutch traditions of cheese and clog making take centre stage. Later, consider an optional dinner featuring Dutch specialties in a historic home.
From picture-perfect skylines to irresistible natural landscapes – your day begins in Amsterdam but ends in the beautiful Rhine Valley. On your way to the Rhineland, you’ll pass Cologne with its UNESCO-listed cathedral which took over seven centuries to build. Board your river cruise in Boppard, winding your way along the Rhine with not a care in the world other than to capture on camera the medieval towns, breathtaking scenery and fairy-tale castles that line your route.
Frozen in time, the German city of Nuremberg is your first stop today where you’ll have some time to admire its medieval charm before continuing to Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic. Equal to Paris in the beauty stakes, but with a Bohemian flavour that pours out of every historic nook and cranny, Prague will leave you spellbound. This 'City of a Hundred Spires' was saved from bombing during World War II while the rest of Europe’s capitals smouldered. You’ll see first-hand why Hitler decided to spare it when you join an Optional Experience river cruise down the Vltava with the glittering skyline providing a picturesque backdrop for dinner.
Prague had a thousand years to evolve into the captivating city it is today. Your Local Specialist brings this history to life during a sightseeing tour that will include views of the UNESCO-listed Prague Castle, the Cathedral of St. Vitus and Charles Bridge, with its Baroque saints. Visit the Old Town Square with its famous 13th-century Astronomical Clock, then spend some time exploring the city on your own, perhaps returning to the Square to watch the clock’s magical hourly 'Walk of the Apostles' with a toasty Tredelník in hand. Later this evening, there’s an opportunity to sample some of the local cuisine and golden brews of Prague with an Optional Experience traditional dinner.
Return to Germany this morning, stopping in Regensburg at the confluence of three rivers before heading to Munich, the Bavarian capital. Your orientation tour will reveal the elegant Marienplatz, featuring the Old and New Town Halls and the Glockenspiel. Time your visit right and you may just see its story of a royal wedding, jousting knights and the dance of the coopers entertaining spectators. Then, let the battle of the brews begin at an Optional Experience to a local Bierkeller as you enjoy the rousing atmosphere with a crisp stein in hand.
A whistle-stop tour in Innsbruck this morning will showcase Emperor Maximilian’s Golden Roof and the Hofburg, once home to the mighty Habsburg family. Your soul will soar as you drive through Brenner Pass bound for Venice, the 'Queen of the Adriatic'. You’ll arrive just in time to join an Optional Experience private water taxi and gondola ride along the labyrinthine waterways of this island city.
Crossing the lagoon by private launch, you'll see how life is lived both on land and water in this historic Byzantine city. The Winged Lion of Venice watches over the people and pigeons in St. Mark's Square and you'll have an opportunity to view it and the imposing Doge's Palace, which the Venice ruling elite once called home. Take advantage of your time to explore the narrow alleyways, historic bridges and the canals of the city. The delicate art of glassblowing has been practiced in Venice for over 1,500 years and you'll see it first-hand during a visit to a workshop, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Consider taking an optional cruise to Burano Island, the most picturesque island in the lagoon.
You won’t be able to tear your eyes from the soul-stirring alpine scenery as you cross into Switzerland and drive up and over the snow-capped mountains that fringe the world-famous St. Gotthard route. Resist the urge to yodel as you pass lush pastures and Swiss chalets, making your way to Lake Lucerne in the heart of Switzerland. This is the land of cow bells, cheese, chocolate and cable cars. Soak it up before arriving at your hotel where you’ll join your travel companions for dinner.
There won’t be a dry eye in the house when you visit the mournful mortally wounded Lion Monument, hewn from rock to commemorate the brave Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Your orientation of Lucerne will also include the medieval Chapel Bridge which has spanned the Reuss river since the 14th century. There’s time this afternoon for some souvenir shopping, or perhaps to join an optional Swiss lunch and folklore show. You could choose instead to head into the Swiss countryside for an Optional Experience and ascend Mount Stanserhorn followed by a lake cruise.
The adventure continues as you travel through Basel and into France where the beauty of Burgundy is surpassed only by its excellent vintages. Admire the stunning landscapes of France’s most famous wine region, arriving in Paris later with some time to explore the glittering French capital. Dive right into its history, culture and culinary delights, from the iconic Eiffel Tower to croque-monsieurs, from lazing on the banks of the Seine to museums and monuments. You could choose to join an Optional Experience cruise on the Seine, admiring the illuminated skyline at night.
Don’t hold back. Today is your opportunity to dive right into the Parisian way of life, beginning with a sightseeing tour conducted by your Travel Director that will take you past some of its iconic sights, including the Champs Élysées, Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower. We won’t keep you from your own exploration and you’ll have plenty of time to shop on its elegant boulevards, visit an art gallery or stroll along the Seine. Tonight, the ruffle of colourful Can-Can skirts will keep you entranced should you choose to join an Optional Experience to watch an original Paris cabaret.
After breakfast, say farewell to your fellow travellers at the end of your holiday. Find out more about your available transfers at costsavertour.com/transfers.
Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.
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.
Available on Day 3
Your travel dreams are about to become a reality as you enjoy a private cruise down the iconic canals of Amsterdam, marveling at the wondrous sights alongside our Local Specialist. Traveling by glass-roofed boat along the historic canal ring, you’ll discover imposing warehouses, stately merchant homes, houseboats and picturesque bridges from an idyllic vantage point.
Adult Price: € 28
Available on Day 4
You’ve seen the elegant mansions, houseboats and often-crooked homes of Amsterdam, but now it’s time to experience life inside one as we spend the evening in a historic Dutch house. Join us for a unique travel experience as we enjoy a delicious meal of Dutch specialties, including drinks, in the elegant surroundings of this historic house.
Adult Price: € 63
On this trip to the reclaimed polder lands around the former Zuider Zee, we start by visiting a cheese farm and wooden shoe-maker to get a taste of local life. 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.
Adult Price: € 30
Available on Day 6
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 its illuminated best as you view sights such as Charles Bridge and the Astronomical Clock in the evening.
Adult Price: € 57
Available on Day 7
Traveling through the Czech Republic, you’ll discover the ultimate beverage of choice for the locals is a nice cold beer - and no tour of Prague is complete until you’ve sampled some of the delectable pilsners and lagers on offer! Join our local guide and expert to discover a few of the nation’s favorite brews and learn why they’re the biggest beer consumers in the world.
Adult Price: € 37
With enchanting gothic architecture and striking scenery, it’s no wonder travelers from all over the world fall in love with the city of Prague! Top your tour off with an evening of great food and music, with an evening out in one of our favorite local restaurants. A wonderful opportunity to say goodbye to glorious Prague, you’ll toast with your fellow travelers to an unforgettable journey.
Adult Price: € 59
Available on Day 8
Munich is the heart of Bavaria and it's fuelled by some of the best food and drink in the country! Take your tour of Munich to the next level with a visit to the Hofbräuhaus - the most famous tavern in the world - before you enjoy a selection of traditional dishes in a typical local restaurant and absorb the atmosphere of a real Bavarian beer hall.
Adult Price: € 62
Available on Day 9
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 color, while musicians and singers entertain. This is the Venice experience you’ve been dreaming of!
Adult Price: € 70
Available on Day 10
Discover the Venetian Lagoon by private boat, traveling to the heritage-listed fisherman’s island of Burano. Known for its picturesque, technicolor houses and restaurants serving up fresh seafood, this tour is a must for food lovers and photography buffs alike. Enjoy a delicious meal before cruising back to Venice, taking in magic views of the famous city as we return.
Adult Price: € 72
Available on Day 12
Travel through the rolling green hills of Switzerland in style, as you meet local farmers and enjoy a delightful countryside tour in horse-drawn carriages. Soak up the stunning scenery as we trot around a rural community, en route to a working farm where you’ll savor local refreshments and uncover the charms of country life.
Adult Price: 67 CHF
Enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Lucerne, making your way to the picturesque town of Stans before exploring the towering Mount Stanserhorn. Traveling by one of Switzerland’s oldest mountain railways and Cabrio cable cars, we'll reach impressive heights at 1900m (6300ft), where you’ll have free time to admire the stunning Alpine scenery.
Adult Price: 113 CHF
Enjoy a delicious lunch (including cheese fondue and one drink) as you listen to yodeling and Alpine horn-blowing, during a lively folklore show of typical Swiss entertainment.
Adult Price: 68 CHF
Available on Day 13
To truly see Paris in all its glory, you need to see it from the Seine. Enjoy a cruise along this famous river and take in unmatched views of the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. Afterward, we’ll drive through the City of Lights to see some of the fascinating sights this beautiful city has to offer. In summer, this trip may take place before sunset.
Adult Price: € 38
Available on Day 14
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 neighborhood.
Adult Price: € 37
Led by a Local Specialist, you’ll see the 'City of Light' from a new perspective on the Panoramic Observation Deck. You’ll have all of Paris at your feet on the terrace, with unbeatable 360-degree views of the most iconic monuments. Later, you’ll visit the Latin Quarter to stroll through the medieval maze of cobblestone alleyways, with sidewalks bistros, boutiques and hidden squares to explore.
Adult Price: € 38
No tour of Paris is complete until you’ve enjoyed dinner and cabaret at the world-famous Moulin Rouge! The original Parisian cabaret, immortalized in film by Baz Luhrmann, boasts 60 dancers and entertainers, with more than 1000 costumes to admire as you take in the spectacular show. With wine and champagne included, you’ll toast to an unforgettable evening in Paris.
Adult Price: € 165
Ooh, la LA! Get swept away by Can-Can dancers and other dazzling acts at one of Paris’s oldest and most authentic cabaret houses. We’ll dine, pop a few bottles of champagne, and enjoy fun, music and la joie de vivre! Truly a night you’ll never forget.
Adult Price: € 139
Experience the ‘Mode’ in Paris through a picturesque walking tour of the city's hippest haunts, introduced to you by a chic Parisian Fashion Expert. Stroll through the Palais Royal and the "glass tunnels" that run through Parisian buildings, bordered by typical Parisian shops and textile workshops. We'll also stop by Galerie Vivienne, a 19th-century covered passage full of shops.
Adult Price: € 68
Make your Parisian travel dreams a reality, as you explore the famous Montorgueil neighborhood on a foodie walking tour. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll sample some of the city’s finest pastries, bread, charcuterie and cheese – meeting local vendors and artisans along the way! Exploring a beautiful historic neighborhood and sampling authentic French cuisine; this is the life.
Adult Price: € 73