European Whirl (Winter Season)
15 Days from $3,050 per person
The 'tring tring' of Dutch bicycles launch your Europe adventure, from picture-perfect Amsterdam and vine-clad hills along the Rhine with their fairy-tale medieval castles, to the magnificent open-air museum that is Rome. Mountains and monuments dot your route as you meander through the heart of Europe against the mesmerizing backdrop of the Alps and tranquil lakeside settings en route to Paris.
This page shows Winter Season departures and itinerary; click here to see the main season version of this tour!
Overview
The 'tring tring' of Dutch bicycles launch your Europe adventure, from picture-perfect Amsterdam and vine-clad hills along the Rhine with their fairy-tale medieval castles, to the magnificent open-air museum that is Rome. Mountains and monuments dot your route as you meander through the heart of Europe against the mesmerizing backdrop of the Alps and tranquil lakeside settings en route to Paris.
This page shows Winter Season departures and itinerary; click here to see the main season version of this tour!
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Day 1: USA - Europe
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included). -
Day 2: Arrive London (2 Nights)
Relax after your journey or spend time exploring this exciting city.
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Day 3: London Sightseeing
Join a Local Specialist this morning for a tour of the iconic sights of London, including Big Ben, the imposing Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.
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Day 4: London – Eurostar™ – Brussels – Amsterdam
Meet your Travel Director before traveling to London's St. Pancras International where we will board the Eurostar™ for a high-speed train journey to Brussels and a luxury coach journey to Amsterdam. Enjoy an orientation of this historic Dutch capital center before joining your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a Welcome Reception dinner cruise on its charming canals.
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Day 5: Amsterdam – Rhine Cruise – Heidelberg – Rhineland
We arrive in Boppard where we board a cruise along the Rhine past the vineyard-clad hills and fairy-tale medieval castles perched above charming riverside towns to St. Goar. Arriving in the Baroque city of Heidelberg, explore its magnificent sights before traveling to our Rhineland hotel.
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Day 6: Rhineland – Munich – Innsbruck
Crossing the Swabian Alps, on the edge of the Black Forest, we arrive in the Bavarian capital of Munich. Our orientation drive takes us past the Olympic Stadium and neo-Gothic City Hall, which dominates Marienplatz. Driving across the Austrian border, we arrive in Innsbruck, the capital of the Alps. Admire Emperor Maximilian's famous Golden Roof with its ornate faҫade and perhaps consider an evening of traditional Tyrolean entertainment to soak up the sights and sounds of this region.
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Day 7: Innsbruck – Venice
Meandering through the emerald-green landscape along the Brenner Pass, we journey into Italy and across the Dolomite Mountains en route to the enchanting city of Venice. We cruise on the beautiful Venetian Lagoon by private launch to the gateway of Venice, St. Mark's Square, viewing the ornate Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. We gain a fascinating Cultural Insight into the centuries-old craft of Venetian glassblowing before spending the afternoon at leisure to soak up the romantic atmosphere. Get lost in Venice, cross bridges and discover hidden 'campi' where locals share their daily stories over a glass of Venetian Spritz.
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Day 8: Venice – Rome (2 Nights)
Traveling south across the Veneto Plain, we pass by Bologna and the dramatic Apennine Mountains, continuing through the green and golden fields of Lazio before reaching Rome, the Eternal City.
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Day 9: Rome Sightseeing
We venture to the Vatican City, visiting St. Peter's Basilica with a Local Specialist to view Michelangelo's Renaissance masterpiece, the Pietà. We journey to Ancient Rome to view the iconic Colosseum and Circus Maximus, once the site of exhilarating chariot races centuries ago. The afternoon is yours to explore the city on your terms.
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Day 10: Rome – Florence Sightseeing
From Rome, we travel north through the rolling countryside of Tuscany and along the Arno valley to the Cradle of the Renaissance, Florence. Delve into the rich de' Medici heritage of this beautiful medieval city with your Local Specialist. Visit what was once the political hub of the city, Piazza della Signoria, with its impressive sculptures and stunning palazzi. View the imposing Duomo with its Brunelleschi dome and Baptistery renowned for its bronze doors filled with relief sculptures. This evening enjoy true Tuscan hospitality with a local family on their private estate on the outskirts of Florence.
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Day 11: Florence – Lucerne (2 Nights)
Drive via the picturesque Italian Lakes District, across the snow-capped Alps into beautiful Switzerland where we'll spend the next two nights in the beautiful medieval lakeside city of Lucerne.
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Day 12: Lucerne Orientation
This morning, view the mournful, mortally wounded lion hewn from rock to commemorate the Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending Louis XVI. Walk along the flower-lined 14th-century covered Chapel Bridge, crossing the River Reuss. Or join an Optional Experience to one of the surrounding peaks for breath-taking views of the Swiss countryside. We have some time later to discover the best Swiss chocolate in town.
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Day 13: Lucerne – Paris (2 Nights)
Crossing the border into France this morning, we travel past the picturesque vineyards and quaint country towns of Burgundy en route to the City of Light. Spend some time this evening strolling along the Seine and grand boulevards in search of a cozy bistro for fine French cuisine or perhaps consider an Optional Experience to a colorful Parisian cabaret.
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Day 14: Paris Sightseeing
Join a Local Specialist today for a sightseeing tour of this romantic city. View the sophisticated Champs Élysées, Place de la Concorde and the 19th-century Arc de Triomphe, honoring those who fought for France. We'll ascend to the second level of the Eiffel Tower for panoramic views of the city—the Seine, gardens and symmetrical streets stretching out below. Our European Whirl almost at its end, we spend the evening with our travel companions and Travel Director enjoying a delicious Farewell Dinner in a local bistro.
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Day 15: Depart Paris
Today bid farewell to your fellow travelers and Travel Director at the end of your vacation. A return transfer will arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport at 8am. 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
- Festive Celebrations
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
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Festive Celebrations
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18 Dec 18 | 1 Jan 19 |
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$3,495pp | Call 1-877-622-9109 | ||
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Festive Celebrations
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25 Dec 18 | 8 Jan 19 |
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$3,425pp | Call 1-877-622-9109 | ||
| 29 Dec 18 | 12 Jan 19 |
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$3,295pp | Call 1-877-622-9109 | |||
| 5 Jan 19 | 19 Jan 19 |
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$3,095pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 9 Feb 19 | 23 Feb 19 |
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$3,050pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 9 Mar 19 | 23 Mar 19 |
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$3,175pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 16 Mar 19 | 30 Mar 19 |
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$3,175pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 23 Mar 19 | 6 Apr 19 |
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$3,175pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 30 Mar 19 | 13 Apr 19 |
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$3,250pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 30 Mar 19 | 13 Apr 19 |
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$3,250pp | Request Quote Book Now |
- Festive Celebrations: Christmas and/or New Year Celebrations have been arranged for these departures.
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $117 per person.
Airport Transfers: A return transfer on the last day will arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport at 8:00 am.
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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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
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Hotel Tips
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Most Meals
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Personal Flight Options
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
Meal Summary
18 meals: 13 breakfasts, 5 dinners.
Included Highlights
BE MY GUEST
- Join a local family who will host you at their private estate on the outskirts of Florence. Enjoy warm Italian hospitality and delicious homemade dishes prepared from local produce.
CULTURAL INSIGHT
- Witness the exquisite craft of glassblowing, a delicate tradition that generations of Venetian craftsmen have perfected over the centuries
LOCAL SPECIALIST
- For included sightseeing in London, Rome, Florence and Paris
HIDDEN TREASURE
- Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure
Sightseeing Highlights
- City tour in London, Rome, Florence, Paris
- Orientation of Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Munich, Innsbruck, Venice, Lucerne
- Visit St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, the Eiffel Tower in Paris
- Cruise along the canals of Amsterdam, the River Rhine
- View the canals in Amsterdam, the Golden Roof in Innsbruck, St. Mark's Square in Venice, the ancient sites in Rome, the Chapel Bridge in Lucerne
- See the Lorelei Rock, the vineyards of Burgundy
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.
Florence
Michelangelo's 'David' & Accademia
Adult Price: € 40
Enjoy an insight into the world of Michelangelo and his masterpiece, David. We have fast track entry to the Academy of Fine Arts and its Michelangelo collection, where you’ll learn all about the life and works of this immortal Renaissance genius through the expert commentary of our Local Specialist.
This optional involves reservation and entrance pre-payments. Cancellation within 24 hours will incur a 50% cancellation fee.
Innsbruck
Tyrolean Evening With Dinner
Adult Price: € 67
You’ll enjoy a delicious meal of traditional Tyrolean cuisine before a lively folklore show, where singers, dancers and musicians dressed in national costume provide an evening of entertainment and fun. Drinks are included.
Lucerne
Alpine Farm & Carriage Ride
Adult Price: 67 CHF
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.
Mount Pilatus And Lake Cruise
Adult Price: 112 CHF
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 descent by cable-car to enjoy a scenic lake cruise. On certain departures this Optional may be operated in reverse.
Swiss Folklore Evening And Dinner
Adult Price: 99 CHF
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.
Paris
Nouvelle Eve Cabaret And Dinner
Adult Price: € 139
Join us for dinner with wine included at one of the most prestigious cabaret shows in town, where you’ll watch an evening of exciting acts, stunning tableaux and wonderful entertainment – including the world famous Can-Can. A Parisian night you’ll never forget.
Moulin Rouge Cabaret And Dinner
Adult Price: € 162
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!
Notre Dame And Latin Quarter
Adult Price: € 33
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.
Seine Cruise And Paris Illuminations
Adult Price: € 38
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.
Versailles Palace And Gardens
Adult Price: € 65
Built for the Sun King, Louis XIV, the Palace of Versailles was the envy of every European ruler. Your Local Specialist will take you through the State apartments and famous Hall of Mirrors, with free time to stroll the symmetrical tree-lined gardens. Please note: this optional is subject to availability.
Rome
Roman Evening with Dinner
Adult Price: € 61
This easy-going evening in Rome begins with a beautiful drive to see amazing city sights. We arrive at one of our favourite restaurants, where you'll enjoy a warm welcome and delicious dinner of local cuisine with drinks and music.
Explore Ostia Antica
Adult Price: € 42
Join us on a journey along the Mediterranean coast and visit the excavations of Ancient Ostia, the former harbour of Rome. These ruins offer perhaps a more complete picture of Roman urban life than either Rome or Pompeii. See the remains of the baths, theatre, apartment houses, drinking room, mosaics and wall paintings at this beautiful site, mirrored by cypress trees and umbrella pines.
Piazzas and Fountains of Rome
Adult Price: € 33
Starting with a lovely drive and continuing on foot, you'll discover hidden backstreets, piazzas and fountains of the 'Eternal City' with a Local Specialist. Along the way, you'll marvel at the timeless Pantheon, the best-preserved Roman temple in the world. Many additional highlights are revealed on this relaxed tour that also offers free time in a gorgeous Baroque square with street artists, trattorias and gelaterias!
Roman Delights With Dinner
Adult Price: € 47
Spend an evening getting to know Rome. We’ll take you via coach where you’ll have the chance to see some of the city’s much-loved sights. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a delicious light dinner of Italian specialities, alongside local music and drinks.
Inside The Vatican & Colosseum
Adult Price: € 79
We skip the lines at the Vatican Museums for this tour that shows not just remarkable works of art collected and commissioned over the history of the Papacy, but also Michelangelo’s amazing ceiling frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Later we hear fascinating tales of gladitorial combat and more on our visit to the Colosseum, again with time-saving VIP entrance.
This optional involves reservation and entrance pre-payments. Cancellation within 24 hours will incur a 50% cancellation fee.
Venice
Gondolas & Grand Canal
Adult Price: € 69
On arrival in Venice, a private boat will be waiting to take you to St Mark's Square, where you’ll enjoy a gondola ride while being serenaded by local musicians. Later, private water taxi's will take you along Venice's Grand Canal, where you’ll admire the magnificent palazzos and Rialto Bridge.
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.
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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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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 or the UK.
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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, Scotland and Northern Ireland and the Swiss Franc (CHF) in Switzerland.
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.
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.
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.
In Austria you’ll find hearty cuisine, but nothing beats the desserts. Try delicious treats like Viennese Sachertorte (dense chocolate cake) and apple strudel.
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.
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.
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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.
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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.
