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European Highlights

Operated by: Trafalgar

7 Days from $1,778 per person
OCT 2023 - APR 2024
European Highlights

Countries Visited

Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, France ...more Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, France

Locations Visited

Amsterdam, Boppard, Sankt Goar, Heidelberg, Lucerne, Paris ...more Amsterdam, Boppard, Sankt Goar, Heidelberg, Lucerne, Paris
  1. Day 1 Welcome to Amsterdam

    Welcome to the colourful city of Amsterdam. Explore this city of bicycles and boats before joining your Travel Director and fellow travellers this evening, on a scenic canal cruise including a light dinner and welcome drinks.

    meals Welcome Reception
    hotel Mercure City
  2. Day 2 Enjoy a Scenic Cruise in the Rhineland Connect with Locals

    Journey through Germany's Rhine Valley, boarding a cruise past terraced vineyards, historic towns and medieval castles to St. Goar. The old university town of Heidelberg is our next stop, with its impressive Renaissance structures, Baroque Old Town and view of the ruined red sandstone castle that towers above the city. Then we head to our Be My Guest experience where you’ll Connect With Locals over dinner at the family-owned Weingut Wehweck vineyard. Currently owned by the third generation of the family, Herr Philipp Wehweck.We venture to our hotel in Heidelberg.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Leonardo
  3. Day 3 Journey through the Black Forest to Lucerne Dive Into Culture

    Delve into a world of legends and fairy-tales today as you enter the enchanting Black Forest. Here, we’ll Dive Into Culture and witness the fine craft of cuckoo clock making, before visiting the dramatic Rhine Falls at Schaffhausen, the largest waterfall in Europe. We cross the Swiss border, admiring the exquisite alpine setting and arrive on the shores of Lake Lucerne where we will stay for the next two nights.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Astoria
  4. Day 4 Explore Lucerne

    Soak up the relaxed lakeside atmosphere before your morning orientation begins. Cross the solid wooden Chapel Bridge, visit the solemn Lion Monument, commemorating the massacre of the Swiss Guards in 1792 and spend your afternoon shopping in the Old Town for Swiss souvenirs and chocolates. Consider an Optional Experience ascending the surrounding mountains for panoramic alpine views, wander along the tranquil lake shore or stroll around the city admiring the decorative signposts and ornate façades lining the city's streets.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Astoria
  5. Day 5 Off through the Burgundy Wine Region to Paris

    See the changing landscape as you travel into France through Alsace and cross the Maginot Line. Admire the scenic Burgundy Wine Region, famous for its delicious Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grape varieties, before arriving in Paris. Indulge in a free evening to explore the grand boulevards of the French capital. Experience the pageantry of Paris first-hand and opt for an Optional Experience to a Parisian Cabaret.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Renaissance La Défense
  6. Day 6 Explore Magical Paris

    Join a Local Specialist today and delve into the artistic and historic treasures of Paris, including views of the elegant Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. View Notre Dame Cathedral and enjoy a stroll through the Latin Quarter. This afternoon, amble through the city’s stylish gardens, avenues and lanes, admiring the sophisticated atmosphere or consider joining an Optional Experience to the exquisite Palace of Versailles. This evening we enjoy a Farewell Dinner with our travel companions and Travel Director.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Renaissance La Défense
  7. Day 7 Farewell Paris

    After breakfast, say a fond au revoir to your fellow travellers and Travel Director. Find out more about your free airport transfer at trafalgar.com/freetransfers.

    meals Breakfast
European Highlights Amsterdam Paris Guided Tour Map
Price Includes

Whats Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities
  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • Optional Experiences and free time

Dining Summary

  • 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
  • 6 Breakfast (B)
  • 2 Dinner (D)

Be My Guest

  • : Enjoy German hospitality when you join an exclusive Be My Guest dinner with your fellow travel companions.

Dive Into Culture

  • Black Forest: Watch as skilled craftsman capture the distinctive sound of the cuckoo demonstrating the centuries' old craft of clock making in the Black Forest.

Iconic Experience

  • Amsterdam: Cruise along the old waterways with your Travel Director and fellow travellers. Discover the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
  • Rhineland: Cruise beneath the semi-ruined castles and terraced vineyards. Sleepy villages slip by as you saunter upstream to the Lorelei Rock where the enchantress lured sailors to their doom.
  • Heidelberg: See the magnificent castle built in red sandstone, overlooking the Student Prince’s town.
  • Rhine Falls: See these spectacular falls.
  • Switzerland: Marvel at the Alpine landscape as you drive past breathtakingly beautiful mountains and valleys.
  • Lucerne: During an orientation with your Travel Director, see the Lion Monument, Old Town Hall and Chapel Bridge, the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe.
  • Paris: Join a Local Specialist to discover the hidden squares and secret lanes of Paris.

Must-see Highlights

  • : Explore Paris with a Local Specialist
  • : Discover Amsterdam and Lucerne
  • : Visit the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen and a cuckoo clock factory in the Black Forrest
  • : View the Lion Monument and the Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris
  • : See the Lorelei Rock and the vineyards of Burgundy
  • : Scenic Cruise along the canals of Amsterdam and the Rhine River

Whats Included

  • : An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • : Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • : All porterage and restaurant gratuities
  • : All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
  • : Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • : Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
  • : Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
  • : Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • : Optional Experiences and free time

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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November 2023
AARP Members Save up to $100
Nov 13 Mon
Nov 19 Sun
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DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,975 $1,778 Save $198
WINTER TRAVEL SALE
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Nov 27 Mon
Dec 3 Sun
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DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,975 $1,778 Save $198
WINTER TRAVEL SALE
December 2023
AARP Members Save up to $100
Dec 17 Sun
Dec 23 Sat
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DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,975 $1,778 Save $198
WINTER TRAVEL SALE
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Dec 23 Sat
Dec 29 Fri
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Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$2,150 $1,935 Save $215
WINTER TRAVEL SALE
AARP Members Save up to $100
Dec 27 Wed
Jan 2 Tue
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DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$2,250 $2,025 Save $225
WINTER TRAVEL SALE
January 2024
AARP Members Save up to $100
Jan 8 Mon
Jan 14 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,975 $1,778 Save $198
WINTER TRAVEL SALE
AARP Members Save up to $100
Jan 22 Mon
Jan 28 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,975 $1,778 Save $198
WINTER TRAVEL SALE
February 2024
AARP Members Save up to $100
Feb 5 Mon
Feb 11 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,975 $1,778 Save $198
WINTER TRAVEL SALE
AARP Members Save up to $100
Feb 19 Mon
Feb 25 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,975 $1,778 Save $198
WINTER TRAVEL SALE
March 2024
AARP Members Save up to $100
Mar 4 Mon
Mar 10 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,975 $1,778 Save $198
WINTER TRAVEL SALE
AARP Members Save up to $100
Mar 18 Mon
Mar 24 Sun
AARP Members Save up to $100
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,975 $1,778 Save $198
WINTER TRAVEL SALE
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.

Lucerne

Available on Day 3

Swiss Dinner by the Lake

Tonight, we'll enjoy a delicious Swiss meal that includes the famous Swiss cheese fondue in a typical local restaurant. Its lakeside location and well-placed terrace will ensure a relaxing evening enjoying the hearty Swiss menu. Two drinks are included.
Adult Price: 95 CHF

Available on Day 3

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.

Lake Lucerne

Available on Day 4

Mount Pilatus and Lake Cruise

A series of cable cars will take us gradually up through the fields and forests to the summit of Lucerne's most well-known mountain. Here you have time to explore, write a postcard, and breathe in the fresh mountain air, before we descend by cable car once more. A cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne will complement this experience.
Adult Price: 113 CHF
Note: On certain departures this Optional Experience may be operated in reverse.

Available on Day 4

Mount Pilatus And Lake Cruise

We’ll ascend by cog-wheel train to Mount Pilatus’ summit, where you’ll have time to explore, admire the views, and breathe the pure air. Then, we’ll descend by cable-car to enjoy a scenic lake cruise.
Adult Price: 113 CHF
Note: On certain departures this Optional may be operated in reverse.

Available on Day 4

Swiss Countryside & Carriages

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 farm where you’ll savour local drinks and snacks.
Adult Price: 72 CHF
Note: Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Paris

Available on Day 5

Moulin Rouge Cabaret and Dinner

It’s world famous for a reason, and this is your chance to see the real-life inspiration behind the award-winning movie. This Parisian institution features 60 dancers and entertainers with over 1,000 costumes to create a dazzling spectacle. You'll enjoy wine, dinner and Champagne during this unforgettable soirée at the original Parisian Cabaret!
Adult Price: € 165

Available on Day 6

Seine Cruise and Paris Illuminations

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. Afterwards, we’ll drive through the City of Lights to see some of the fascinating sights this beautiful city has to offer.
Adult Price: € 43
Note: In summer, this trip may take place before sunset.

Available on Day 6

Versailles Palace and Gardens

Built for the Sun King, Louis XIV, the Palace of Versailles was the envy of every European ruler, but loathed by the French commoners, which lead to the French Revolution. Step inside the opulent world of Versailles and our Local Specialist will take you through the palace’s Hall of Mirrors and State apartments. Then, enjoy free time to wander the symmetrical, tree-lined gardens.
Adult Price: € 73
Note: This optional involves reservation and entrance pre-payments. Cancellation within 24 hours will incur a 50% cancellation fee., , This optional is subject to availability.

Available on Day 6

Montparnasse and Napoleon's Tomb

Take the fastest elevator in Europe to the Panoramic Observation Deck for unbeatable views of the Eiffel Tower and all of the city’s iconic monuments. The highest rooftop terrace in Paris offers a breath-taking 360-degree view, with all of Paris at your feet! We’ll also visit the Dôme des Invalides with our Local Specialist to see Napoleon’s final resting place.
Adult Price: € 51

Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Trusted Customer
Review date: Sunday, October 9, 2022
Service
I will recommend them
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are so happy to hear you enjoyed your European Highlights tour. It sounds like you had a fabulous time. We appreciate your recommendation and taking the time to write a review and leave your feedback. Take care!
Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Vacation
Great experience. MJ our travel director was awesome.
Brian Harris
Review date: Sunday, September 25, 2022
Service
Everything was outstanding from beginning to end. We dealt with several different agents and each provided exemplary service. This was our third trip with GET and each has been great! We would highly recommend GET and will use them again for future trips
Response from Grand European Travel:
Wow! It sounds like your European Highlights tour was absolutely fantastic! We are so glad we were able to help you plan and book this extraordinary tour. We truly appreciate your repeat business as well as your recommendation. We look forward to helping you plan your next adventure. Thank you for your review and kind words! Take care!
Monday, September 26, 2022
Vacation
This trip was perfect for us. We wanted to experience several cities we had not been in before and European Highlights fit the bill. The tour director, bus driver, and wellness director all made the trip a success. The optional experiences really made the trip even better. We are so happy we took this trip.
Kathy Jackson
Review date: Friday, September 9, 2022
Service
The person we booked with on the phone was very informative, answered our many questions, was no pressure to book but helped us decide the trip was exactly what we wanted. We called back the next day and we’re able to quickly and easily book our trip.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Wow! It sounds like your exploration of Europe was fantastic. What a fabulous way to spend a week! We are so excited to hear you enjoyed your trip. Thank you for letting us help you plan and book such a wonderful adventure. We truly appreciate your business and your feedback. Thank you for taking the time to let us know how lovely your trip was. Take care!
Tuesday, September 20, 2022
Vacation
We were able to see and experience so much in a week. Although we only had a couple of days in each country we felt the experiences and the sites were perfectly planned and gave a great experience in each one. In Amsterdam the working windmill and the cruise on the canal where beautiful, relaxing and gave and gave a great window into the country. The Black Forest visit to Cuckoo Clock factory, driving in the Alps, the farm in Switzerland, everything in Lucerne, and Paris topped everything off. What a wonderful time!
Hollis Thornton
Review date: Monday, July 4, 2022
Service
I enjoyed the trip and our tour director MJ was absolutely fabulous. I will definitely do another Trafalgar tour!
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are so glad you enjoyed your European Highlights tour. It sounds like you had a splendid time. Thank you for taking the time to write a review. We appreciate your feedback.
Tuesday, July 5, 2022
Vacation
Enjoyed the experience and the tour director.
Jacqueline Ford
Review date: Sunday, June 26, 2022
Service
This is the third time we have taken a trip with them and we hope to take more trips. We were well taken care of. The driver, guide, and health specialist on this last trip were very impressive, professional, organized, informative, and caring.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for your business. We look forward to helping you plan those future trips!
Tuesday, June 28, 2022
Vacation
Great fun. My husband and I are still raving about our trip and encouraging others to follow our actions.
Barbara Gift
Review date: Sunday, September 29, 2019
Service
Sarah was excellent. She give clear time directions and gave us information about the areas we were traveling through. She was very accomodating to everyone who wanted to do things a bit different and was always ready to help anyone who needed directions or other information about what stores had specific items. Very helpful.
Vacation
The trip was excellent but left little time for rest. Perhaps eliminating one of the stops would have helped. The bus was too old for the extensive time we were in it. We visited one place after another but could not plug in our phones to keep power to take pictures.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Sunday, September 29, 2019
Service
It is always easy to book with GET . The agents are helpful and professional. They resolve any problems quickly.
Vacation
The accommodations and experiences were fabulous. I loved everything we did. However, the itinerary was exhausting. We spent far too long on the bus traveling between locations. The first full day, we spent almost all day on the bus. And the trip from Lucerne to Paris took an entire day with no break before dinner, river cruise and tour of the city. It was very rushed and exhausting. We didn't get to our hotel until after 11:00 p.m. This trip could be greatly improved by adding 1 or 2 days to the itinerary. I would suggest doing perhaps a windmill tour in Amsterdam and then head into Germany part of the way to the Rhine River. Make the river cruise and Heidelberg the next day. Also , add a day between Lucerne and Paris so guests can truly enjoy all the experiences.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Monday, July 2, 2018
Service
Our European Highlights tour was excellent and we will definitely do more of these vacations in the future. I loved being able to see so many countries in a short time. However, that's also hard when you want to do more things, but have to move on. I rated my experience as 4 stars for two reasons: a. there were stops where we had to choose between food, seeing the sites, or using the restroom. Time for necessities like food and restroom breaks need to be carved out separate from exploration and fun time. b. we paid for an optional experience at the Palace of Versailles and it was a disaster. A local guide took half of our group and we spent so much time talking about the lineage of Louis XIV, that not one of us will remember, that we missed the features of the palace. And, we were not given any time at all to see the gardens. That was money wasted, I hate to admit. Our tour guide, Lynda was wonderful and our group got along very well. I do think it was a bit silly to have a seat rotation on the motor coach; we're all adults. Other than those little things, this truly was a trip of a lifetime and I'll be returning to Europe at least annually from now on!
Vacation
The trip was amazing. Just the coordination of events, outings, hotels, sights, and entertainment was worth the price. However, we paid to take the Eurostar back to London and there was a 2 hour delay. So, our plan to have some extra time in London didn't work out well. But, that isn't anyone's fault; just the circumstances of the day.
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