Grand European
23 Days from $5,483 per person
Wander through 17th-century Bruges, the reflective waterways of Amsterdam and medieval Rhineland as you get under the skin of Europe and discover unexpected highlights.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
Overview
Wander through 17th-century Bruges, the reflective waterways of Amsterdam and medieval Rhineland as you get under the skin of Europe and discover unexpected highlights.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
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Day 1: Arrive London (2 Nights)
The bright lights of London are your launchpad to a grand adventure through Europe. Broaden your horizons and explore the culture and heritage of the British capital or spend your day relaxing after your journey.
*Local Host is with you during your stay in London. Your Travel Director will join you on Day 3.
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Day 2: London Sightseeing and Free Time
Join a Local Specialist this morning to see the iconic sights of London. From Big Ben and the imposing Houses of Parliament that stand alongside the Thames, to regal Buckingham Palace at the end of the grand Mall. Spend the day exploring London's bustling city streets, relax in one of the beautiful Royal Parks or visit one of the captivating museums and galleries for which the city is so famous.
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Day 3: London – Bruges
Meet your Travel Director before departing London for mainland Europe. Leave the White Cliffs of Dover behind for the golden fields of France and Belgium, traveling to medieval Bruges. Explore its canals, lined with centuries-old gabled houses before joining your Travel Director and travel companions for a Welcome Reception including dinner and drinks in beautiful surrounds. We stay overnight in a former 17th-century monastery with historical features.
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Day 4: Bruges – Amsterdam
Journey through the Dutch countryside to captivating Amsterdam. See the city's iconic sights from the comfort of a canal boat and dive into culture during a visit to the renowned diamond factory. This evening, we'll connect with locals during a Be My Guest dinner at the Pauw family dairy farm.
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Day 5: Amsterdam – Rhine Cruise – Heidelberg – Rhineland
We travel to Germany, arriving at Boppard where we board a Rhine cruise past hilltop castles. Admire the magnificent ruined sandstone castle in Heidelberg overlooking the Neckar River en route to your Rhineland hotel where you'll dine this evening.
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Day 6: Rhineland – Black Forest – Rhine Falls – Lucerne (2 Nights)
Journey through romantic Black Forest landscapes today—tales of the Brothers Grimm are your constant companion as you continue through south-west Germany to the Swiss border. See the mighty Rhine Falls plunging dramatically near the town of Schaffhausen before arriving in the medieval city of Lucerne, your home for the next two nights.
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Day 7: Lucerne Orientation and Free Time
See Lucerne's poignant Lion Monument this morning. The mournful mortally wounded lion hewn from sandstone provides a poignant reminder of the brave Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Venture to the flower-lined 14th-century wooden Chapel Bridge, explore Old Town's colorful façades or consider an exhilarating mountain and cruise Optional Experience. This evening we enjoy dinner at our hotel.
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Day 8: Lucerne – Liechtenstein – Innsbruck
Our love affair with the Rhine continues today as we travel to the tiny Principality of Liechtenstein and see its capital, Vaduz, before crossing into Austria. We follow the scenic Arlberg Pass through the Tyrol to Innsbruck, the capital of the Alps where we will see the ornate Golden Roof during an orientation tour.
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Day 9: Innsbruck – Salzburg – Vienna (2 Nights)
Salzburg's extraordinary natural beauty has inspired musical greats and epic films. Join a Local Specialist on a guided walking tour of the city that gave birth to Mozart, featuring locations that music and movie lovers will remember from the famous film, “The Sound of Music.” This evening, we arrive in the beautiful Baroque city of Vienna, our home for the next two nights.
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Day 10: Vienna Sightseeing and Free Time
Join a Local Specialist on a sightseeing tour of one of Europe's most elegant capitals. View the State Opera House, the City Hall, Parliament, the Imperial Boulevards and the Hofburg, the former imperial palace for the Habsburg dynasty. Spend the evening soaking up the melodic charm of what has become the world's music capital, celebrating the talents of old masters and modern icons at open-air concerts, palaces and expansive stages.
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Day 11: Vienna – Venice (2 Nights)
Driving through the scenic Austrian Lake District, we cross the Italian border and journey through the Veneto Plains to the Byzantine city of Venice where we'll spend the next two nights.
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Day 12: Venice Orientation and Free Time
Dive into culture and witness the centuries-old Venetian tradition of glassmaking. Navigate the bustling waterways by private launch to the gateway of Venice, St. Mark's Square where we tread in the footsteps of Casanova and Marco Polo and admire the sights and sounds of the Queen of the Adriatic. See the ornate Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. This afternoon is yours to get lost in Venice. Explore the labyrinthine calle in search of the best Campari Spritz in town, watch the sun set over the Grand Canal or consider a cruise to the Island of Burano for a delicious meal.
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Day 13: Venice – Assisi
Journey south to the mystical town of Assisi, where St. Francis was born and laid to rest. Here you'll stroll through the city's streets in the company of a Local Specialist and have an opportunity to visit the Basilica of St. Francis. See the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and enjoy dinner at your hotel tonight.
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Day 14: Assisi – Pompeii – Sorrento
Pass the site of the bloody World War II battle of Monte Cassino en route to the Bay of Naples and the lost city of Pompeii where you'll join a Local Specialist who will share the story of this remarkable ancient Roman settlement that was buried in ash following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. We continue to the coast and the beautiful seaside resort of Sorrento where we will stay the night and dine in our hotel.
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Day 15: Sorrento – Isle of Capri – Rome (2 Nights)
Cross the enchanting blue water of the Bay of Naples to the Isle of Capri and ascend to Capri Town by funiculare where you will join a Local Specialist for a guided walking tour of the town. Spend a leisurely afternoon soaking up la dolce vita in the piazza before sailing back to the mainland. This evening we arrive in Rome, the Eternal City, where we will spend the next two nights.
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Day 16: Rome – Vatican Experience
Delve into the treasures of the Vatican City with a Local Specialist who will take you on a sightseeing tour through St. Peter's Basilica to see Michelangelo's Pietà. Cross the Tiber into Ancient Rome to see the mighty Colosseum and enjoy views of Circus Maximus. Then dive into culture and gain priority access to the Vatican Museums for a guided tour. Admire Michelangelo's magnificent frescoed ceiling when it is less crowded, then enjoy an exclusive after hour's al fresco dinner against the backdrop of St Peter's.
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Day 17: Rome – Florence Sightseeing
Journey north to Florence where you'll join a Local Specialist for an included walking tour to the Piazza della Signoria, the political hub of this once free republic that became a recognized center for art, architecture and culture. See the beautiful marble Duomo and Baptistery with its famous bronze doors, and the picturesque Ponte Vecchio which straddles the Arno. Learn about the quality and workmanship of one of this city's historic industries at a demonstration of Florentine leathercraft. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure admiring the work of great masters in the Uffizi Gallery, climbing the stone steps to Piazzale Michelangelo for iconic views, or relaxing in the Boboli Gardens.
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Day 18: Florence – Pisa – Monaco – Nice (2 Nights)
We drive to the city of Pisa and its Square of Miracles to see the famous Leaning Tower which bears this city's name. From Italy to the sun-kissed landscapes of the French Riviera, we stop in the sophisticated Principality of Monaco before continuing to Nice, our home for the next two nights. Enjoy an orientation drive along the scenic Promenade des Anglais, which for centuries has attracted sun-worshipping aristocrats to its shores, and see Place Massena before spending the evening at leisure.
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Day 19: Nice – Saint-Paul de Vence Excursion
Rub shoulders with artists and actors in the medieval hilltop town of Saint-Paul de Vence, before you dive into culture and savor the heady scents of French perfume at the Fragonard Perfumery. Learn how they create delicate fragrances before returning to Nice to indulge in the laidback seaside atmosphere. Wander along the scenic promenade and embrace café culture on the tranquil shores of the Mediterranean, stroll through the chic city streets shopping at Nice's fashionable boutiques or relax on the beach watching the sun set over the Riviera.
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Day 20: Nice – Avignon – Beaune
We travel north to the Papal city of Avignon, an important pilgrimage site. We stop for views of the magnificent Papal Palace and famous Pont d'Avignon before arriving in the capital of the Burgundy wine-producing region, Beaune. Explore the ancient walls and Old Town, see its characteristic geometrically colored tiled roofs.
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Day 21: Beaune – Paris (2 Nights)
We travel north through the vineyards of Burgundy to Paris, our home for the next two nights. The City of Light shines brightly as you explore its grand boulevards, amble along the Seine or embrace the pageantry of a traditional Parisian cabaret.
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Day 22: Paris Sightseeing and Free Time
Join a Local Specialist soaking up the sights and sounds of one of the world's most romantic cities. See the Champs Élysées and the Eiffel Tower. Visit the world-famous Notre Dame Cathedral and enjoy a stroll through the Latin Quarter. Spend a free afternoon exploring the city before celebrating an unforgettable experience at a Farewell Dinner with wine in a local restaurant.
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Day 23: 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 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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Apr 19 | 23 Apr 19 |
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$6,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 15 Apr 19 | 7 May 19 |
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$6,450$5,483pp | Last Minute DealPromo Code: PPLMDE559 | Call 1-877-622-9109 Book Now | ||
| 6 May 19 | 28 May 19 |
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$6,475pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 13 May 19 | 4 Jun 19 |
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$6,475pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 3 Jun 19 | 25 Jun 19 |
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$6,475pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 10 Jun 19 | 2 Jul 19 |
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$6,475pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 17 Jun 19 | 9 Jul 19 |
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$6,350pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 1 Jul 19 | 23 Jul 19 |
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$6,275pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 8 Jul 19 | 30 Jul 19 |
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$6,275pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 22 Jul 19 | 13 Aug 19 |
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$6,275pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 5 Aug 19 | 27 Aug 19 |
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$6,275pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 12 Aug 19 | 3 Sep 19 | $6,325pp | Request Quote Book Now | ||||
| 19 Aug 19 | 10 Sep 19 |
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$6,325pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 26 Aug 19 | 17 Sep 19 | $6,425pp | Request Quote Book Now | ||||
| 2 Sep 19 | 24 Sep 19 |
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$6,425pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 9 Sep 19 | 1 Oct 19 | $6,425pp | Request Quote Book Now | ||||
| 16 Sep 19 | 8 Oct 19 |
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$6,425pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 7 Oct 19 | 29 Oct 19 |
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$6,350pp | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a room.
Single Room Supplement: from $1,640 per person
Triple Room Discount: $10 per person
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver, $266 per person
Airport Transfers: A return transfer on the last day will arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport at 8 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 Specialist about this at time of booking
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
30 meals: 22 Buffet breakfasts, 2 Dinners, 6 Dinners with local wine.
Insider Experiences
Connect with Loclas
- Go Dutch and share a gezellig Be My Guest dinner, savoring delicious local cheeses, with the Pauw family on their dairy farm near Amsterdam
Stays with Stories
- A former monastery from the 17th century, the NH Brugge has historical features such as stained-glass windows and exposed beams
Dive into Culture
- Explore the centuries-old heritage of the diamond trade in Amsterdam with a visit to a diamond-polishing factory
- Enjoy a private visit inside the Vatican where you will tour the Museo Gregoriano Profano featuring Roman and Ancient Greek antiquities before an exclusive private dinner. Be inspired by the magnificence of Michelangelo and da Vinci at the Vatican Museums
Local Specialist
- For included sightseeing in London, Salzburg, Vienna, Assisi, Pompeii, Capri, Rome, Florence, Paris
Sightseeing Highlights
- VIP admission to the Vatican Museums
- City tour in London, Salzburg, Vienna, Assisi, Pompeii, Capri, Rome, Florence, Paris
- Orientation of Bruges, Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Lucerne, Innsbruck, Venice, Pisa, Monaco, Nice, Avignon
- Visit the Rhine Falls at Schaffhausen, Vaduz—the capital of Liechtenstein, the Sistine Chapel in Rome, Saint-Paul de Vence, Beaune and Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris
- Cruise along the Canals of Amsterdam, the River Rhine, to the Isle of Capri
- View the ancient sites of Rome, the Papal Palace, Pont d' Avignon in Avignon
- See the Lorelei Rock in Rhine Valley, Benedictine Abbey at Monte Cassino, the Vineyards of Burgundy
- Ferry across the Channel from Dover to Calais
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.
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
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. Occasionally, this optional may be offered as a Lunch for CHF68.00.
Adult Price: CHf99
Mount Stanserhorn And Lake Cruise
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.)
Adult Price: CHf112
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: CHf67
Innsbruck
Tyrolean Evening With Dinner
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.
Adult Price: €67
Vienna
Viennese Dinner with Musical Entertainment
Enjoy dinner in an atmospheric Viennese restaurant, with drinks and traditional musical entertainment included. A unique experience in one of Europe’s most elegant cities.
Adult Price: €63
Schönbrunn Palace And Gardens
The Imperial Summer Palace of Schönbrunn offers an amazing journey through the centuries of Hapsburg rule. It is perfectly preserved and richly decorated with treasures from around the globe. Each room has a story to tell, so of course, you’ll have a Local Specialist to bring it to life and to make the most of your time. This optional involves reservations and entrance prepayments. Should you decide to cancel the optional, a 50% cancellation fee will be incurred.
Adult Price: €45
Dinner And Viennese Concert
A wonderful evening of all things Viennese! Enjoy a superb dinner with drinks, followed by a concert of Viennese classical music. Works by Johann Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart will be performed and your 'A Class' tickets and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine or juice during the interval will only enhance the experience. Please note: on occasion a small gift will be offered in place of a glass of sparkling wine.
Adult Price: €103
Viennese Concert
You’ll enjoy a wonderful concert of Viennese classical music including some of the most famous works of Strauss and Mozart, performed by some of the most highly acclaimed soloists and dancers in Austria. You’ll receive 'A Class' tickets and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine during the interval.
Adult Price: €58
Venice
Gondolas & the Grand Canal
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.
Adult Price: €70
Lagoon Cruise to Burano with Food and Drinks
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.
Adult Price: €72
Hidden Venice & St. Mark's Basilica
Experience magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica and its glittering gold mosaics the best way possible - with VIP entrance and a Local Specialist! Then delve into the city’s labyrinth of back alleys and canals, bridges and secret squares - enchanting neighbourhoods that you would never find on your own, all explained and brought to life by a true Venetian!
Adult Price: €34
Sorrento
Amalfi Coast and Positano
Come with us for a drive along the famous Amalfi Coast. You’ll have a chance to visit the exclusive artists’ paradise of Positano, which is magnificently positioned on the Mediterranean coast.
Adult Price: €43
Rome
Roman Evening with Dinner
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.
Adult Price: €62
Inside The Colosseum
With VIP entrance and a Local Specialist at your side, tour the most famous monument to have survived from the classical world, the Colosseum. A symbol of both Imperial might and architectural ingenuity, this amazing structure offers a unique insight into Rome’s tumultuous history, revealing tales of Gladiatorial combat and more.
Adult Price: €48
Roman Delights With Dinner
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.
Adult Price: €51
Piazzas and Fountains of Rome
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!
Adult Price: €33
Florence
Michelangelo's 'David' & Accademia
Enjoy an insight into the world of Michelangelo and his masterpiece, David. We visit 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 reservations and entrance prepayments. If you decide to cancel this optional, a 50% cancellation fee will be incurred.
Adult Price: €47
Tuscan Dinner at Villa Machiavelli
A scenic drive into the Chianti hills, past vineyards, brings us to a delightful hamlet. Our destination is the ancient stone house of Machiavelli, where the great political theorist wrote his immortal work, ‘The Prince’. After a welcome drink and visit of the villa and its wine-cellars, we'll enjoy the best of Tuscan cuisine accompanied by great music and drinks, including of course, Chianti from the Villa’s own vines. This is the essence of all great things Tuscan, past and present, condensed into one memorable evening!
Adult Price: €65
Dinner, Wine And Music In The Tuscan Hills
Join us for a scenic drive through the beautiful Tuscan countryside. We will enjoy a meal at a charming restaurant where a selection of regional favourites is served, accompanied by a selection of local wines and live music. A truly unforgettable experience, with an atmosphere that is the essence of all things Tuscan.
Adult Price: €65
Nice
Corniche Coastline Drive with Meal
You’ll enjoy a scenic excursion along the Riviera corniche roads, with spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe. An unforgettable experience, we’ll continue onwards to a local restaurant where you’ll enjoy a typical meal of specialities from the region, with drinks included.
Adult Price: €72
Paris
Versailles Palace And Gardens
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 and involves reservation and entrance pre-payments. Cancellation within 24 hours will incur a 50% cancellation fee.
Adult Price: €65
Moulin Rouge Cabaret And Dinner
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!
Adult Price: €162
Nouvelle Eve Cabaret And Dinner
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.
Adult Price: €139
Le Grand Louvre
The biggest and best-known museum in the world, The Louvre was once palace to the kings of France. You’ll follow your Local Specialist through the sumptuous maze of galleries to view masterpieces such as Leonardo da Vinci's 'Mona Lisa' and Winged Victory, one of the most celebrated sculptures in the world.
Adult Price: €55
Seine Cruise And Paris Illuminations
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.
Adult Price: €38
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.
From $470 per person on a double share basis Includes one-way Eurostar train ticket from Paris to London Standard Class, London accommodations at the Cumberland and station transfers.
Day 23: Paris – Eruostar™ – London
Transfers are provided to Paris Gare du Nord station, where you'll board the Eurostar™ train to London. The journey time to London St. Pancras International is 2 hours and 15 minutes. On arrival in London you are transferred to your hotel.
MEAL(S): BUFFET BREAKFAST
HOTEL: CUMBERLAND/HARD ROCK
Day 24: Depart London
Enjoy an English breakfast at the end of your vacation.
MEAL(S): FULL BREAKFAST
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.
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, 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, Scotland and Northern Ireland; the Swiss Franc (CHF) in Switzerland; the Swedish Krona (SEK) in Sweden; the Danish Kroner (DKK) in Denmark; the Norwegian Krone (NOK) in Norway; the Czech Koruna (CZK) in the Czech Republic; the Forint (HUF) in Hungary; the Zloty (zł) in Poland; and the Kuna (KN) in Croatia.
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.
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.
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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.
