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European Experience

Operated by: CostSaver

12 Days from $2,032 per person
2023
Italy Venice Gondola Bridge European Experience

Countries Visited

Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy, Vatican City, Switzerland, France ...more Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy, Vatican City, Switzerland, France

Locations Visited

Amsterdam, Cologne, Rhineland, Munich, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Vatican, Florence, Lucerne, Paris ...more Amsterdam, Cologne, Rhineland, Munich, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Vatican, Florence, Lucerne, Paris
  1. Day 1 Arrive Amsterdam (1 Night)

    Your experience of a lifetime begins in the free-thinking capital of the Netherlands. Immerse yourself in Amsterdam's gezelligheid as you soak up the buzz of the city's canals, gabled houses and festive squares. There's no better way to see the capital than from its waterways, so choose an Optional Experience in a glass-topped boat winding through Amsterdam's historic canal ring.

    hotel Ibis Schiphol
  2. Day 2 Amsterdam – Cologne – Rhineland (1 Night)

    Your first stop today is the main cultural centre of the Rhineland and home to the impressive Cologne Cathedral which looms high above the city’s skyline. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe and one of the country’s most-visited landmarks. Suitably inspired by its spires, you’ll board a lazy river cruise down the Rhine past terraced vineyards and fairy-tale castles.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Taste Hockenheim
  3. Day 3 Rhineland – Munich – Innsbruck (1 Night)

    Your first stop today is Munich where you can admire the Glockenspiel in the Marienplatz and the Hofbräuhaus. Continue along the Inn Valley to the Austrian Tyrol and its capital, Innsbruck, where you can 'ooh and aah' at the impressive ski jump and view the famed Golden Roof, constructed from 2,657 copper tiles. Admire the fascinating crystal installations and browse for precious gifts and souvenirs at the Swarovski Crystal Worlds Store. This evening, an Optional Experience could see you enjoy a lively evening of entertainment during a traditional Tyrolean evening.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Bon Alpina
  4. Day 4 Innsbruck – Venice (Marghera) (1 Night)

    Journey through alpine landscapes crossing the Brenner Pass into Italy. Venice bewitches in all her Byzantine glory, softening even the hardest of hearts with her opulence. Highlights include a cruise on a private launch to St. Mark’s Square and views of the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge's Palace. The talents of master craftsmen are the star of the show later as you visit their glassblowing workshop, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. There’s even time for an optional Gondola and Grand Canal cruise – grand palazzi, churches and ornate bridges line your journey.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Palladio
  5. Day 5 Venice – Rome (2 Nights)

    Cross the Veneto plain into Tuscany, travelling through Umbria to Lazio and eventually the 'Eternal City'. If Rome was a person, she would be confident, alluring and complex. You’ll get to know her, and her quirks, over the next two days as you continue to explore Italy. You’ll find reminders of an ancient world, a holy empire and the Renaissance around every turn. You could choose to join a Local Specialist for an optional guided stroll through Rome’s piazzas. Linger in your favourite square, or perhaps enjoy a scoop or three of the local gelato and soak up the effervescent energy of a city that knows how to enjoy life.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Raganelli
  6. Day 6 Rome Sightseeing and Free Time

    You could spend a lifetime exploring Rome and just scratch the surface, but with your Local Specialist on hand you’ll dive right into the city’s heart and soul. Head to Vatican City to watch the pigeons and people tread on holy ground, then visit St. Peter’s Basilica and see Michelangelo’s priceless 'Pietà'. Skip the long queues and choose an Optional Experience to the Vatican Museums. Continue your tour across the Tiber to the Colosseum and other ancient sites, following in the footsteps of Julius Caesar. The rest of the day is yours to explore Rome your way. Consider an optional local dinner followed by a scenic tour of the city by night.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Raganelli
  7. Day 7 Rome – Florence (1 Night)

    Life mimics art in the idyllic Umbrian and Tuscan landscapes you’ve seen in countless films, photographs and works of art. Experience it yourself as your journey heads north to the Renaissance city of Florence. Soak up every detail as you admire the city skyline from Piazzale Michelangelo. There’s time to explore Piazza della Signoria, the Duomo and Giotto's Bell Tower or shop for the bespoke Italian leather goods and fine gold jewellery for which Florence is justifiably famous. You could choose instead to join an Optional Experience revealing the Renaissance heritage of a city which attracted artists, physicists, astronomers and philosophers like Michelangelo, Machiavelli and Galileo.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Miro
  8. Day 8 Florence – Lucerne Region (2 Nights)

    There’s no better backdrop than the Apennines as you wind your way north past Milan and the Swiss border. Press your nose to the window, drinking in the beauty of the St. Gotthard Pass in the Swiss Alps, then continue to Lake Lucerne. You’ll want to put the 'heart' of Switzerland in your pocket and take its history, culture and epic landscapes with you, but for now be contented with an Optional Experience that will see you dive into Swiss folklore and food – fondue anyone?

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Ibis Kriens, SwissEver Zug
  9. Day 9 Lucerne orientation and free time

    Turn the page to a land of fairy-tale landscapes and medieval history. You have a full day to see the sights and explore Lucerne, starting with a morning orientation including the Chapel Bridge and the Jesuit Church. No visit to Lucerne is complete without a visit to the Lion Monument, built to commemorate the brave Swiss Guards who died defending Louis XVI during the French Revolution. You may be tempted to do some souvenir shopping, but an Optional Experience into the mountains will be hard to resist. Ascend Mount Pilatus by a cog-wheel railway then embark on a scenic lake cruise.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Ibis Kriens, SwissEver Zug
  10. Day 10 Lucerne Region – Paris (2 Nights)

    It doesn’t get more idyllic than the French countryside and you’ll soak it all up as you continue through the vineyards of celebrated wine regions before arriving in Paris. The 'City of Lights' shines brightly this evening and it will sparkle even more should you choose to join an Optional Experience to cruise down the Seine, seeing the glittering skyline from the water.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Hampton by Hilton Clichy
  11. Day 11 Paris Sightseeing and Free Time

    Audrey Hepburn described it best when she said: 'Paris is always a good idea.' We’re sure you’ll agree. Hit its grand boulevards on a city sightseeing tour with your Travel Director. See the Arc de Triomphe and Champs Élysées then spend the rest of the day discovering the city on your terms. Don’t resist the urge to tread in the footsteps of Picasso and Dalí and visit Montmartre this afternoon, exploring its maze of streets and Artist’s Square. There’s time to shop for artwork and savour some local specialties before considering a real highlight this evening – an optional dinner and cabaret performance.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Hampton by Hilton Clichy
  12. Day 12 Depart Paris

    Say farewell to your Travel Director and travelling companions at the end of an amazing holiday. Find out more about available transfers at costsavertour.com/transfers.

    meals Breakfast
European Experience Amsterdam Paris Guided Tour Map
Price Includes

Dining Summary

  • 11 Breakfast (B)
  • 4 Dinner (D)

Essentials

  • : See the historic city centre
  • : View the Gothic cathedral
  • : Cruise the romantic Rhine
  • : See the Glockenspiel in the Marienplatz and the Hofbräuhaus
  • : Cruise by private boat to St. Mark's Square and visit a traditional glassblowing workshop
  • : Visit St. Peter's Basilica, view the Colosseum and see the ancient sites with your Local Specialist
  • : See Piazza Santa Croce and enjoy panoramic city views from Piazzale Michelangelo
  • : Picture-book scenery
  • : Visit the Lion Monument and view the Chapel Bridge
  • : View the Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower on your sightseeing tour

Dates & Prices

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.

Online Booking Process

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June 2023
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Jun 18 Sun
Jun 29 Thu
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$2,336
July 2023
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Jul 23 Sun
Aug 3 Thu
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$2,258
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August 2023
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September 2023
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October 2023
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Oct 1 Sun
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December 2023
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Dec 10 Sun
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$2,179
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Dec 24 Sun
Jan 4 Thu
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Optional Add-Ons

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.

Amsterdam

Available on Day 1

Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Experience the picturesque countryside of Holland and the charming atmosphere of vibrant Amsterdam on an immersive tour led by our Local Specialist. Visit a centuries-old farm to taste traditionally made Gouda cheese and see how local artisans create handcrafted wooden shoes. Returning to the city, enjoy a private cruise by glass-roofed boat through the historic canal to soak in the iconic sights of Amsterdam.
Adult Price: € 38

Innsbruck

Available on Day 3

Traditional Tyrolean Evening

Immerse yourself in local culture with a lively evening of traditional Tyrolean entertainment in Innsbruck. Singers, dancers and musicians dressed in national costume will dazzle you with a colourful show of folklore and fun, as you enjoy two included drinks and take in the spectacular show.
Adult Price: € 49
Note: This evening may not be available on every departure.

Venice

Available on Day 4

Gondolas & the Grand Canal

Join us for a breath-taking cruise by private water taxi along Venice's Grand Canal, catching glimpses of impressive sights such as the Palazzi Barbaro, Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s Square. Later on, you’ll glide gracefully on a gondola along Venice’s dreamy, narrow waterways, discovering the irresistible charm of the world-famous canals.
Adult Price: € 79

Rome

Available on Day 5

Piazzas and Fountains

Discover the most charming areas of the city as you explore quintessential Italian piazzas and fountains with a Local Specialist. Wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets and beautiful squares in Rome’s historic centre, stopping to marvel at highlights such as the Trevi Fountain, The Pantheon and hidden corners of the Eternal City.
Adult Price: € 37

Available on Day 6

Inside The Vatican & Colosseum

We skip the lines at the Vatican Museums for an enlightening tour led by our Local Specialist, which shows not just the remarkable works of art collected and commissioned over the history of the Papacy, but also Michelangelo’s renowned ceiling frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Later, we'll hear tales of gladiatorial combat and more on our visit to the Colosseum, again with a time-saving entrance.
Adult Price: € 90

Available on Day 6

Roman Evening with Dinner

Take your tour to the next level as you embrace the Italian way of living la dolce vita, with a light-hearted evening out in the mesmerising city of Rome. Relax and savour delectable Italian dishes such as the iconic Spaghetti Carbonara and Roman-Style Pizza as you enjoy the delights of Roman music in one of our favourite restaurants in the city.
Adult Price: € 62

Florence

Available on Day 7

Florence's Renaissance Treasures

This tour is all about exploring the jewel in Florence’s crown: its Renaissance heritage. Alongside your Local Specialist, you’ll wander the enchanting streets of the city and soak in must-visit sights including Ponte Vecchio, Mercato del Porcellino and Piazza della Signoria. Take in the Duomo, Florence’s spectacularly designed cathedral, before topping off the day with an Italian treat – gelato!
Adult Price: € 42

Lucerne

Available on Day 8

Swiss Folklore Evening And Dinner

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.
Adult Price: 99 CHF
Note: Occasionally, this optional may be offered as a lunch for CHF 68.00.

Available on Day 9

Mount Pilatus And Lake Cruise

Embrace the great outdoors as we travel to Mount Pilatus, ascending to the towering summit by a thrilling cog-wheel train. Soak in the spectacular views and breathe in pure air, marvelling at the magic of the Swiss scenery. Then, we’ll descend by cable-car before taking a scenic lake cruise. It doesn’t get much better than this!
Adult Price: 113 CHF
Note: On certain departures this Optional may be operated in reverse.

Available on Day 9

Swiss Countryside & Carriages

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 savour local refreshments and uncover the charms of country life.
Adult Price: 72 CHF
Note: Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Paris

Available on Day 10

Seine Cruise and Paris Illuminations

Experience the world-famous 'City of Lights' as Paris transforms in the evening. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the River Seine, taking in views of iconic Parisian sights such as Grand Palais and the Eiffel Tower. Later, kick back for a relaxing drive through this picturesque city that will show off the best Paris has to offer.
Adult Price: € 43
Note: In summer, this trip may take place before sunset.

Available on Day 11

Montmartre Village and Artists' Square

Dominated by the soaring Sacre Coeur Basilica, Montmartre is a must-visit destination in Paris. Join a Local Specialist to explore the winding streets, unusual galleries and world-famous Artist’s Square - once home to the works of Toulouse Lautrec and Picasso. With time to browse, barter for original art and taste local cuisine, this tour uncovers the true joy of the Montmartre lifestyle.
Adult Price: € 37

Available on Day 11

Montparnasse and Latin Quarter

Led by a Local Specialist, you’ll see the 'City of Lights' 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: € 39

Available on Day 11

Moulin Rouge Cabaret and Dinner

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

Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Frances Pletcher
Review date: Tuesday, May 30, 2023
Service
The booking process was easy. I had to make payment in full since it was close to travel. It would have been nice to have more details about the trip overall but the reservation process is easy. I booked my airfare through them as well at the same time because I was told that was the only way transfers were included however that was not true- Many others on the trip booked their own airfare and were still able to use the transfers free of charge.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for your very detailed review of your trip. We do provide a great deal of information about what to expect while traveling on our website www.getours.com. We hope that you came home with some happy memories!
Tuesday, May 30, 2023
Vacation
NOTE- this is a cost savers tour. Expect it to be as such. It is an excellent opportunity to see many places on a budget. However, the optional items are almost necessary. They indicate that you can not take the transportation many days if you are not doing the optional things. Which leaves you to need an uber or other public transportation otherwise you are stuck at the hotel. The hotels are mostly far from any city centers. Plan to spend additional for several things. DO your research on the places you will be staying. Most of the days are spent on a coach with many hours of driving. They make a comfort stop at a gas station rest stop, plan to be eating here and waiting in very long lines to use a toilet. We did not have access to the toilets on the bus as they were locked and only used by the driver. Most hotels are 3 star quality. Customer service lacks from which you may be use to depending where you are from. I did not know to pack my own toiletries and washcloths etc. I also did not know I would need to pay to use a restroom facility. Basic information such as these would have been helpful for someone who had never traveled to these areas. The walking tours are nice and you will see a lot but there is little to NO free time as specified in the itinerary. The free time is enough to grab a bite to eat and walk to the coach again. Be prepared for any type of weather! You are out for a good part of the day. Be sure to have good shoes! There is ALOT of walking involved. Most of all just enjoy the experience and use it to see where you would like to go back to and spend more time. It is very fast paced and not enough to throughly enjoy any specific area. Hopefully you will have good tour guides. I will say that definitely has an impact on my review as well.
Tamy Amicone
Review date: Monday, August 22, 2022
Service
I enjoyed working with Lisa. Even though our trip was cancelled for the dates we wanted Lisa made it seem less for the change in dates. We had a trip of a life time due to European Travel
Response from Grand European Travel:
We're sorry your original date had to be rescheduled but happy to see that the new date turned out to be the trip of a lifetime! Thank you for working with us.
Thursday, August 25, 2022
Vacation
There isn't enough space to tell you how much this trip meant to us. The people we travelled with will be friends for life. The opportunity to walk in the Vatican and be able to pray was one of the most emotional times in my husbands and my lives.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Sunday, August 21, 2022
Service
Daniel Pelletier, he is the best, excellent cutomer service
Response from Grand European Travel:
We appreciate your feedback and will be sure to pass along your comments to Daniel. Thank you for your business and we look forward to helping you plan that next trip!
Thursday, August 25, 2022
Vacation
Some night stayed at 2 stars hotel...
Karen Moore
Review date: Monday, July 25, 2022
Service
I booked the trip in 2020. The booking experience at that time was great. The representative was very helpful and answered all my questions. A few months later, I found out the trip was postponed for 2 years, which was completely understandable. As this year's travel date approached, I never heard from anyone at GET, not even for payment. I had to reach out to them several times before getting any kind of response. It made me very apprehensive about traveling with them. Luckily, it all worked out fine.
Vacation
The tickets to the Passion Play and the Moulin Rouge were incredible! Absolutely great seats, much better than I anticipated. This trip was a lot; we covered a lot of ground in a short period of time. Which understandably meant many hours on the coach. There wasn't as much free time to explore the cities on our own as I would have liked. I would recommend, eliminating London from the trip and concentrating on the other cities. Spend a night or 2 in/ near Cologne or Rhineland. Don't spend more than 3 hours on the coach per day.
Mary Nenno
Review date: Sunday, September 22, 2019
Service
We thought the booking was handled in a professional manner and everything went very smoothly. All our questions/concerns were answered a prompt manner as well.
Vacation
Overall we really enjoyed our vacation. Our only comment is that we felt there should be a few more "rest stops" in between destinations. Maybe just 15-20 minutes to get out of the bus and stretch or walk around a bit.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We appreciate your suggestions and will certainly pass them along to our operators. Thank you!
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
Karen Mccartney
Review date: Sunday, September 15, 2019
Service
Rob made it easy and was able to answer all our questions, since was our first visit to Europe.
Vacation
It was a great value. I believe we saw all the major highlights of each city we visited. Our travel director, Howard Hazekamp was extremely knowledgeable. I learned a great deal from his narratives of each site.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Thursday, September 12, 2019
Service
Very helpful. Would definitely recommend them.
Vacation
Wonderful. Our tour director, Howard Hazekamp, was amazing and born for this job. Extremely helpful, congenial, entertaining, and an unbelievable depth of knowledge that makes your vacation so much more enjoyable. He has set a bar I believe would be hard to beat by any other TD.
Maria
Review date: Saturday, August 24, 2019
Service
Alyssa Rucker was so helpful, very professional and was making follow up on any question or issue I have.
Vacation
It was filled with unforgettable moments and new experiences with lasting friendships.
Michelle Mcfadden
Review date: Saturday, July 13, 2019
Service
What a wonderfully planned itinerary. Our travel agent Rebecca K. Was so kind and friendly. Always willing to answer our questions in a timely manner. Cost savers European tour was unbelievably well organized and our tour guide Bernie and driver Erich were the best we had ever had!!! Accommodation were better than expected as well as the food. No hiccups. So happy with the whole process.
Vacation
Trip of a lifetime!!! Comfortably paced even with seeing 7 countries in 14 days. Traveled with husband and 3 teenage boys. The tour guide Bernie was so impressive with his knowledge and kept our interest throughout the whole trip. It’s a great way to get a taste of Europe!!! Food and accommodations did not disappoint!
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are thrilled to see how much you and your family enjoyed The European Experience. Thank you for taking the time to share your memories about your trip of a lifetime!
Monday, July 15, 2019
Thomas Fielding
Review date: Thursday, November 1, 2018
Service
Tour guide was excellent. Coach driver was very professional, excellent driver. Very good experience. Will use get again on our next adventure.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you so much for your comments. We are thrilled you had a great time exploring Europe. We look forward to helping you plan and book your next tour!
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
Vacation
Very good value. Well planned itinerary
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