Grand Europe Tour: 23-Day Journey from Paris to Italy, Alps and Central Europe
Paris - Milan - Rome - Florence - Venice - Prague - Vienna - Budapest - Frankfurt - Amsterdam - Brussels
Grand Europe Tour: 23-Day Journey from Paris to Italy, Alps and Central Europe
Paris - Milan - Rome - Florence - Venice - Prague - Vienna - Budapest - Frankfurt - Amsterdam - Brussels
Departure City
FRANCE, Paris
Returning City
FRANCE, Paris
Number of DAYS
23
Meeting point
Paris
Google Maps
Frecuency
Saturday
PRICE in Euros
3.595,00 €
Description: Grand Europe Tour: 23-Day Journey from Paris to Italy, Alps and Central Europe
Embark on the ultimate 23-day European odyssey, starting from the romantic streets of Paris. This meticulously crafted tour takes you through the architectural wonders of Italy’s art cities, the breathtaking peaks of the Alps, and the historical grandeur of the Imperial Capitals: Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. From the scenic Rhine Valley in Germany to the canals of Amsterdam in Holland, witness the very best of the Old Continent in one seamless, unforgettable journey.
Departure days of the tour
Departures: Saturday
Grand Europe Tour: 23-Day Journey from Paris to Italy, Alps and Central Europe includes:
The Best of Europe: 23-Day Tour includes:
Transportation by modern air-conditioned bus / English-speaking accompanying guide during the tour / Transfer to hotel in Paris / Visits in Paris, Rome, Florence, Venice, Vienna, Budapest, Prague, Amsterdam / Excursion to Versailles in Paris / Boat excursion on the River Seine in Paris, Zurich Lake, St Mark Square in Venice, Traunsee Lake, Danube River in Budapest, Vltava River in Prague, Cruise on the Rhine, from Voledam to Marken in Amsterdam / Transfer to Montmartre District in Paris, Trastevere in Rome, Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence, Grinzing district in Vienna, Old Town Square in Prague, Rembrandplein in Amsterdam / Ticket admission to Eiffel Tower in Paris, Murano Glass Factory in Venice, Prague Castle, Diamond Cutting Factory and Museum in Amsterdam / Train Rapperswil – Zurich, Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa / Cable Car in Lyon, to Grindelwald First / Accommodation at 3* and 4* hotels / Daily breakfast / 1 dinner / Hotel city taxes / Travel insurance.
Price details
| PRICE PER PERSON IN EUROS (SEASON 2026 - 2027) | |
| ADULT | from 3595 € |
| CHILD (3 – 11 years) | from 5295 € |
Itinerary of the city break Madrid & Barcelona:
Day 1. (Saturday) PARIS
Bonjour! Welcome to France! Welcome to Paris! Upon your arrival at the airport, our professional team will be waiting to provide a seamless transfer to your hotel in Paris. After checking in, take the opportunity to relax or begin exploring the charming streets of the French Capital at your own pace. Detailed information regarding your tour’s start, including meeting times and locations, will be available on the reception information boards. Your grand European adventure starts here! Accommodation in hotel.
Day 2. (Sunday) PARIS
Breakfast at the hotel. We depart for the Palace of Versailles, the ultimate symbol of French royal opulence. Enjoy free time to explore the palace and its gardens (entrance not included). Experience the grandeur of the Sun King’s era before we head back to Paris. Our next stop is the charming Montmartre district, the historic soul of Parisian art and Bohemian life. You’ll have free time for lunch, perhaps at a classic French bistro, and a chance to admire the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica with its panoramic views over Paris. In the afternoon, we embark on a comprehensive Paris Sightseeing Tour. Sit back and relax as we drive past the city’s most iconic landmarks: the majestic Eiffel Tower, the legendary Champs-Élysées, the historic Place de la Concorde, and the gothic masterpiece of Notre Dame Cathedral. We’ll also pass the world-renowned Louvre Museum and the Arc de Triomphe, ensuring you don’t miss a single highlight of the City of Light. After returning to the hotel, the evening is yours to enjoy. For a truly unforgettable experience, we offer an optional evening at a world-class Parisian Cabaret. Immerse yourself in the sparkle, music, and glamour of a traditional French show, the perfect way to end your stay in Paris. Return to hotel and accommodation.
Day 3. (Monday) PARIS
Start your day with a delicious breakfast before heading to the world’s most famous landmark: the Eiffel Tower. We’ve included your entry ticket to the 2nd Floor, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Parisian skyline. From this vantage point, spot the golden dome of Les Invalides and the sprawling gardens of the Champ de Mars, a true ‘bucket-list’ moment! After descending from the Iron Lady, we take to the water for a scenic Seine River Cruise. Relax on board as you glide past the city’s historic bridges and UNESCO-listed riverbanks. Admire the gothic majesty of Notre Dame, the grand facade of the Louvre Museum, and the elegant Musée d’Orsay from a unique nautical perspective. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy the City of Light at your own pace. Whether you want to indulge in luxury shopping at the Galeries Lafayette, stroll through the Tuileries Garden, or find a hidden gem in the Le Marais district, this is your time to soak in the final charms of Paris. Overnight stay in Paris.
Day 4. (Tuesday) PARIS – BEAUNE – LYON
After breakfast, we bid farewell to Paris and head south into the heart of Burgundy. Our first stop is the picturesque town of Beaune, the celebrated wine capital of the region. Enjoy free time to wander through its cobblestone streets and admire the iconic colourful tiled roofs of the Hospices de Beaune (Hôtel-Dieu). For lunch, we highly recommend tasting the authentic Boeuf Bourguignon (slow-cooked beef in red wine) or the delicate Escargots de Bourgogne. Pair it with a local Chardonnay or Pinot Noir for the ultimate French epicurean experience. We continue our journey to Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage city and the culinary heart of France. Upon arrival, we take a scenic cable car ride up to the summit of Fourvière Hill. Here, you’ll enjoy some free time to visit the stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, which offers the most spectacular panoramic views over the city, the Saône River, and, on clear days, the distant Alps. After that, we head to our hotel for the evening. NOTE: Depending on the season and availability, accommodation may be located in the charming alpine gateway of Chambéry.
Day 5. (Wednesday) LYON – GENEVA – NEUCHATEL – ZURICH
After breakfast, we cross the border into Switzerland, arriving at the sophisticated city of Geneva. Nestled on the shores of Western Europe’s largest lake (Geneva Lake), we will explore the city’s diplomatic heart at the Palace of Nations (UN Headquarters). You’ll also admire the famous L’horloge fleurie (Flower Clock) in the English Garden, a tribute to the Swiss watchmaking tradition, and marvel at the iconic Jet d’Eau, a soaring fountain that is the symbol of the city. Enjoy free time for lunch… don’t miss the chance to try a world-famous Swiss chocolate for dessert. Our journey continues through the breathtaking Three Lakes Region to the medieval town of Neuchâtel. Set against the backdrop of the Jura Mountains, this Yellow Stone city is a hidden gem. Enjoy your free time with a stroll along the scenic Lakeside Promenade, visit the 12th-century Neuchâtel Castle, or explore the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the serene Swiss atmosphere before we head to Zurich, the country’s vibrant financial and cultural hub, for our overnight stay. NOTE: To ensure the best experience, the Geneva – Zurich leg may occasionally be operated by Switzerland’s world-class train network. In this event, the stop in Neuchâtel will be replaced by a scenic rail journey through the Swiss heartland.
Day 6. (Thursday) ZURICH – RAPPERSWIL – ZURICH
After breakfast, we begin a guided sightseeing tour of Zurich, Switzerland’s largest and most vibrant city. We will explore the historic Old Town (Altstadt), where you’ll admire the iconic twin towers of the Grossmünster and the stunning stained-glass windows by Marc Chagall at the Fraumünster Church. We’ll stroll along the world-famous Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most exclusive shopping avenues in the world, and take in the serene views from the Lindenhof hill, the site of the city’s Roman roots. Next, we take to the water for a relaxing cruise across Lake Zurich. From the deck, enjoy the breathtaking postcard views of the snow-capped Alps and the charming, flower-filled villages lining the shore. We will disembark in Rapperswil, affectionately known as the Town of Roses. You will have free time to explore its picturesque medieval castle, wander through the rose gardens, or enjoy a lakeside lunch with a view. To complete this authentic Swiss experience, we return to Zurich on a scenic panoramic train, offering a different perspective of the lush landscapes and sparkling waters. The rest of the afternoon is yours at leisure. Whether you choose to visit the Lindt Home of Chocolate, explore the trendy Zurich West district, or simply relax by the Limmat River, the city is yours to discover. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 7. (Friday) ZURICH – INTERLAKEN – GRINDELWALD – LUCERNE – ZURICH
After breakfast, we head into the heart of the Bernese Oberland to reach the breathtaking Interlaken region. Our destination is the postcard-perfect village of Grindelwald, nestled at the foot of the north face of the Eiger Mountain. After some free time to explore this charming glacier village, we will board a panoramic cable car to ascend the mountain. At the Summit, prepare yourself for awe-inspiring views of the Swiss Alps. You can walk along the Cliff Walk for a thrilling perspective, capture photos of the eternal snows, or simply breathe in the purest mountain air. To complete the experience, a traditional Alpine lunch is included at a mountain restaurant, where you can savour local flavours surrounded by majestic peaks. We descend from the heights and continue our journey to Lucerne, often cited as the most beautiful city in Switzerland. During your free time, you can walk across the iconic Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke), the world’s oldest covered wooden bridge, and visit the poignant Lion Monument. Take a stroll through the medieval Old Town with its painted facades or relax by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Lucerne. In the late afternoon, we return to Zurich for your overnight stay, carrying memories of a day spent in the heights of Europe.
Day 8. (Saturday) ZURICH – BELLINZONA – COMO – MILAN
Enjoy your final Swiss breakfast before we embark on a spectacular journey across the imposing Alps, descending into the sun-drenched landscapes of Northern Italy. Our first stop is Bellinzona, a UNESCO World Heritage town famous for its three majestic medieval castles. You’ll have free time to explore its historic center, where Swiss precision meets Italian flair, and admire the stone walls that have guarded these Alpine passes for centuries. We continue to the world-renowned Lake Como, a jewel of the Italian Lake District. Famous for its dramatic scenery and luxury villas, Como offers the perfect setting for lunch. Take a stroll along the elegant lakeside promenade, soak in the breathtaking views of the deep blue waters framed by emerald mountains, and perhaps enjoy an authentic Italian gelato as you breathe in the sophisticated atmosphere that has captivated poets and stars alike. In the afternoon, we arrive in Milan, the global capital of fashion and design. To start your Italian adventure on a high note, we head straight to the heart of the city: the Piazza del Duomo. You will be mesmerized by the Milan Cathedral (Duomo), a gothic masterpiece of white marble and thousands of statues. Enjoy free time to explore the glass-roofed Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II or simply enjoy the aperitivo culture before we head to our hotel for the evening.
Day 9. (Sunday) MILAN – PISA – ROME
After breakfast, we begin our journey south into the heart of Tuscany. Our first destination is the world-famous city of Pisa. Upon arrival, we’ll hop aboard a charming tourist land train that whisks us directly to the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles). Here, you will have some free time to marvel at the architectural splendour of the Leaning Tower, the majestic Baptistery, and the Cathedral. It’s the perfect opportunity to capture that iconic photograph of one of the world’s most celebrated landmarks. We continue our route towards Rome, driving through some of Italy’s most evocative landscapes. Sit back and enjoy the view as we pass the rolling hills of Tuscany and the rugged beauty of the Lazio region, dotted with ancient olive groves, medieval hilltop villages, and golden vineyards. As the sun begins to set, we arrive in Rome, the Eternal City. After checking into our hotel, you can enjoy your first evening in Rome, perhaps wandering through a local piazza or enjoying an authentic Italian dinner. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 10. (Monday) ROME
After breakfast, we immerse ourselves in the history of the Roman Empire with a comprehensive guided tour of Rome. Accompanied by a local expert, we begin with a panoramic drive followed by an enchanting walking tour through the city’s historic centre. You will marvel at the majestic Arch of Constantine and admire the exterior of the iconic Colosseum and the Imperial Forums. Our route takes us past the Circus Maximus, the ancient Baths of Caracalla, and the splendid Basilica of Saint Mary Major. We’ll also catch sight of the unique Pyramid of Cestius and the fortress of Castel Sant’Angelo as we approach the banks of the Tiber River, concluding our journey at the magnificent Vatican City, at the imposing St. Peter’s Square (Piazza San Pietro). The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. For those wishing to delve deeper into art history, we offer an optional guided visit to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Marvel at Michelangelo’s world-famous frescoes and the vast papal collections. Alternatively, you might choose to stroll through the boutiques near the Spanish Steps or toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome. As evening falls, we head to the vibrant Trastevere district. Known for its narrow cobblestone alleys and ivy-clad buildings, this is the most authentic corner of the city. Enjoy free time for dinner amongst the lively trattorias and bars, soaking in the quintessential Roman atmosphere. We conclude the day with a return to the hotel for our overnight stay.
Day 11. (Tuesday) ROME – FLORENCE
Today, we bid farewell to Rome and travel north through the sun-dappled landscapes of Central Italy to reach Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Our first stop is the famous Piazzale Michelangelo. This hilltop terrace offers a quintessential postcard view of the city’s skyline, featuring the iconic terracotta dome and the winding Arno River, the perfect spot for your first photographs of this historic city. Once we arrive in the city centre, we embark on an enchanting guided walking tour through Florence’s artistic heart. We’ll cross the legendary Ponte Vecchio, the medieval stone bridge famous for its glittering jewellery shops. You’ll admire the architectural grandeur of the Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore) with its magnificent Giotto’s Bell Tower, and explore the Piazza della Signoria, an open-air museum filled with world-class sculptures and the historic Palazzo Vecchio. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may wish to visit a local leather market, indulge in a traditional Florentine steak, or perhaps explore the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery. Wander through the cobblestone streets at your own pace before heading to the hotel for your overnight stay.
Day 12. (Wednesday) FLORENCE – VENICE
Breakfast at the hotel. We depart Florence and cross the ruggedly beautiful Apennine Mountains, heading towards the Adriatic coast. Upon arrival at the Venetian lagoon, we leave the coach behind and board a boat for a scenic crossing to the heart of the city: the legendary St Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco). Arriving in Venice by water is a truly unforgettable experience that captures the unique spirit of this floating masterpiece. Accompanied by an expert local guide, we embark on an enchanting walking tour of Venice. You will admire the exterior of the golden St Mark’s Basilica, the intricate gothic facade of the Doge’s Palace, and the historic Bridge of Sighs. We’ll wander through a labyrinth of narrow alleys and over charming stone bridges as we uncover the secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Following our tour, we delve into local traditions with a visit to a traditional Murano glass factory. Here, you will witness a fascinating live demonstration by a master glassblower, seeing firsthand how molten glass is transformed into exquisite works of art using centuries-old techniques. The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. You might choose to enjoy a romantic gondola ride through the hidden canals, get lost in the quiet calli of the Cannaregio district, or simply enjoy a spritz at a canal-side café. After a full day of discovery, we head to our hotel for the evening. Overnight stay.
Day 13. (Thursday) VENICE – INNSBRUCK – KITZBÜHEL – SALZBURG
Our last italian breakfast. We bid arrivederci to Italy and head north, crossing the breath-taking Brenner Pass into the Austrian Alps. Our first stop is Innsbruck, the stylish capital of the Tyrol region, twice host to the Winter Olympics. Enjoy your free time wandering through the medieval Old Town to admire the famous Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), adorned with over 2,600 gilded copper tiles. For a taste of authentic Tyrol, we highly recommend trying Tiroler Gröstl (a hearty pan-fried dish of potatoes, meat, and onions topped with an egg) or a classic Apple Strudel in one of the riverside cafés. We continue our journey through stunning Alpine scenery to reach Kitzbühel, one of the world’s most exclusive and picturesque ski resorts. You will have free time to stroll through its charming town centre, famous for its brightly coloured medieval houses and high-end boutiques.As the afternoon draws to a close, we make our way to the enchanting city of Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart. Upon arrival, we settle into our hotel for the evening. NOTE: For operational excellence, the journey between Venice and Salzburg may occasionally be taken by train. In this instance, you will enjoy a scenic rail journey through the heart of the Austrian Alps.
Day 14. (Friday) SALZBURG – ST. WOLFGANG – LAKE TRAUNSEE – VIENNA
After breakfast, we begin our day in Salzburg, exploring its UNESCO-listed historic centre, admiring the baroque architecture and the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress that dominates the skyline. We then depart for the spectacular Salzkammergut Lake District, journeying through a landscape of emerald-green mountains and crystal-clear waters. Our first stop is the enchanting village of St. Wolfgang, nestled on the shores of Lake Wolfgangsee. You will have free time to explore its charming streets and visit the famous 14th-century Pilgrimage Church with its magnificent winged altar. Our Alpine adventure continues with a relaxing cruise across Lake Traunsee, Austria’s deepest lake. Soak in the serene atmosphere and admire the dramatic mountain peaks reflecting in the water, including the majestic Traunstein. We will also pass the picturesque Schloss Ort, a stunning white castle built on a tiny island. After disembarking, we continue our scenic drive towards the imperial capital, arriving in Vienna in the late afternoon. After checking into the hotel, you may wish to enjoy your first evening in the city of the Waltz. Overnight stay.
Day 15. (Saturday) VIENNA
Following breakfast, we embark on a comprehensive guided tour of Vienna, a city that breathes history and musical heritage. We will drive along the famous Ringstrasse, admiring the architectural grandeur of the Vienna State Opera, the Parliament, the City Hall (Rathaus), and the Burgtheater. You will also see the majestic Hofburg Palace, the former winter residence of the Habsburgs, and the soaring spire of St Stephen’s Cathedral, the spiritual heart of the city centre. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Vienna is a city of endless discoveries, and we highly recommend to visit the Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of Maria Theresa and its spectacular gardens. For art lovers, a visit of the Belvedere Palace to see Gustav Klimt’s masterpiece, The Kiss, or explore the vast collections of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, is a must. In the evening, we include a transfer to the picturesque district of Grinzing, located on the outskirts of the city and surrounded by lush vineyards. This area is world-renowned for its Heuriger (traditional wine taverns). You will have free time for dinner, where you can enjoy local specialities and Austrian wines in a cozy, rustic atmosphere before we return to the hotel for our overnight stay.
Day 16. (Sunday) VIENNA – BUDAPEST
After breakfast, we depart Vienna and cross the border into Hungary, heading towards the spectacular city of Budapest. Often called the Pearl of the Danube, this city is divided by the mighty Danube River into two distinct sides: historic Buda and vibrant Pest. Upon arrival, we head to the bustling Vaci utca, the city’s famous pedestrian thoroughfare. You will have free time to enjoy lunch amongst the charming shops and traditional eateries of the city centre. To begin our discovery, we have included a scenic cruise along the Danube River. This is the ultimate way to witness the city’s architectural splendour, offering unparalleled views of the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Margaret Bridge, and the historic Castle District from the water. Following our cruise, we embark on a panoramic city tour of Budapest. We will visit the Fisherman’s Bastion for a breathtaking view over the river, the Matthias Church, and the Citadel on Gellért Hill. In Pest, we shall see Heroes’ Square, the Opera House, and the majestic St. Stephen’s Basilica. The remainder of the afternoon is yours at leisure to explore the thermal baths or the historic covered market. For your evening meal, you may choose to join an optional traditional folklore dinner. This lively experience features authentic Hungarian cuisine accompanied by spirited Gypsy music and traditional dances, a perfect immersion into the local culture. Return to the hotel for your overnight stay.
Day 17. (Monday) BUDAPEST – BRATISLAVA – PRAGUE
After breakfast, we depart Budapest and travel north-west towards Slovakia. We arrive in its charming capital, Bratislava, nestled along the Danube and the foothills of the Little Carpathian Mountains. You will enjoy free time to explore the beautifully restored medieval Old Town at your own pace. Wander through the narrow pedestrian streets, admire the whimsical bronze statues (like the famous Man at Work), and perhaps walk up to the four-towered Bratislava Castle for a commanding view over the city and the river. Following a leisurely lunch in Bratislava, we continue our journey across the lush landscapes of Central Europe, crossing the border into the Czech Republic. Our destination is Prague, the City of a Hundred Spires and one of the most perfectly preserved medieval cities in the world. To ensure a truly memorable arrival, we take you straight to the heart of the city: Prague’s Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí). As evening falls, the square transforms into a fairytale scene, illuminated by the glow of the Astronomical Clock and the gothic towers of the Tyn Church. You will have free time for dinner amongst the historic buildings, an ideal opportunity to sample a world-famous Czech beer, before we head to the hotel for our overnight stay.
Day 18. (Tuesday) PRAGUE
After breakfast, we begin a full day of discovery in Prague, one of Europe’s most enchanting capitals. Accompanied by an expert local guide, we start our guided tour of Prague at the monumental Prague Castle (Pražský hrad). We have included your entry to this magnificent complex, the largest ancient castle in the world. You will marvel at the gothic splendour of St Vitus Cathedral, wander through the historic Royal Palace, and stroll along the charming Golden Lane, where tiny colourful houses seem frozen in time. From the heights of the Castle District, we descend to the riverbanks for a relaxing boat cruise along the Vltava River. This is the perfect vantage point to admire the city’s skyline, passing under the iconic statues of the Charles Bridge and taking in the panoramic views of the National Theatre and the historic Vyšehrad fortress. It’s a moment of pure serenity in the heart of the city. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Prague is a city meant for wandering, and we suggest you to cross the Charles Bridge, a 14th-century stone bridge at sunset for a truly magical experience. You can also explore the Jewish Quarter (Josefov), visiting the historic synagogues and the poignant Old Jewish Cemetery. And for dinner, savour Bohemian Flavours, relaxing in a traditional cellar pub and trying authentic Czech Goulash paired with a world-class local Pilsner. Overnight stay.
Day 19. (Wednesday) PRAGUE – PILSEN – ROTHENBURG – FRANKFURT
After breakfast, we bid farewell to the Czech Republic and cross into Germany. Our first stop is Pilsen (Plzeň), a city world-renowned as the birthplace of the golden Pilsner lager. You’ll have free time to explore the historic centre and the Great Synagogue, but a visit here wouldn’t be complete without sampling an authentic local brew at its source. Savour the crisp, original flavour that changed the world of beer forever. We continue our journey onto the legendary Romantic Road, arriving at the spectacular Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This is arguably Germany’s best-preserved medieval town, a labyrinth of cobblestone alleys, colourful half-timbered houses, and ancient city walls. Enjoy free time to stroll through the market square and visit the famous Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Village (open year-round!). Don’t forget to try a Schneeball (Snowball), the town’s signature pastry made of shortcrust pastry strips decorated with various toppings. In the afternoon, we arrive in Frankfurt, Germany’s dynamic financial hub. After checking into your hotel, the evening is yours to explore the city’s contrasting skyline. Head across the river to Sachsenhausen District for dinner. It is the best place to try Frankfurt’s famous Apfelwein (apple wine) in a traditional tavern. You may also visit Römerberg, the beautifully restored medieval square, home to the City Hall, for a quintessentially German atmosphere and a classic Frankfurter sausage dinner.
Day 20. (Thursday) FRANKFURT – RHINE – COLOGNE – AMSTERDAM
After breakfast, we continue our journey north towards the legendary Rhine Valley. We begin the day with a relaxing Rhine River Cruise, the best way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage landscape. Sit back on deck and admire the steep vineyards, historic riverside towns, and the fairytale castles perched atop rocky cliffs. Keep an eye out for the famous Lorelei Rock, where legend says a siren’s song led sailors to their fate. Upon disembarking, we travel by road to Cologne, one of Germany’s oldest and most vibrant cities. You will have free time to explore the city centre and stand in awe before the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom). This towering gothic masterpiece, with its twin spires reaching for the sky, took over 600 years to complete and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Europe. It is the perfect backdrop for lunch at a local brewery, perhaps sampling a glass of traditional Kölsch beer. In the afternoon, we leave Germany behind and cross the border into the Netherlands, arriving in the iconic city of Amsterdam. Known for its artistic heritage and elaborate canal system, the city welcomes us for our overnight stay. After checking into the hotel, you can enjoy a quiet evening to rest and prepare for tomorrow’s full discovery of the Dutch capital.
Day 21. (Friday) AMSTERDAM
After breakfast, we head into the Dutch countryside to discover the quintessential spirit of Holland. Our first stop is Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum where you’ll be transported back to the 18th century. Admire the iconic working windmills, visit a traditional wooden clog workshop, and see how world-famous Dutch cheese is made. We continue to the picturesque fishing village of Volendam, famous for its colourful wooden houses and lively harbour. From here, we board a scenic boat for a short crossing to Marken, a former island known for its unique green-painted houses and traditional costumes, a truly authentic Dutch experience. In the afternoon, we return to the capital for a comprehensive guided tour of Amsterdam. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will explore the city’s historic heart. We’ll visit the moving Dam Square, home to the Royal Palace and the National Monument, and stroll along the Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug). The tour will take you through the elegant Canal District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll learn about the city’s Golden Age architecture and the stories behind the narrow, leaning gabled houses that line the water. We will also pass the historic Anne Frank House and the vibrant Flower Market. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure. Amsterdam is a paradise for museum lovers; you might choose to visit the Rijksmuseum to see Rembrandt’s masterpieces, or the Van Gogh Museum. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at a brown café by the canal or explore the boutiques of the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes). Overnight stay.
Day 22. (Saturday) AMSTERDAM – BRUSSELS – PARIS
After breakfast, we depart the Netherlands and cross the border into Belgium, heading to its historic capital, Brussels. We begin our visit in the breathtaking Grand Place (Grote Markt), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning medieval squares in the world. Admire the intricate gold-leaf facades of the Guildhalls and the imposing Gothic Town Hall. Just a short stroll away, we’ll visit the city’s most famous resident: the Manneken Pis. This iconic bronze statue is a symbol of the city’s unique sense of humour and rebellious spirit. You will have free time to explore the Capital of Europe at your own pace. Brussels is a culinary paradise, so make the most of your lunch break by indulging in some world-famous Belgian waffles, crispy frites, or exquisite artisanal chocolates from the elegant Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. For beer enthusiasts, a glass of local Trappist ale in a historic tavern is a must-try experience. In the afternoon, we board our coach for the final leg of our journey, travelling south through the fertile plains of Flanders and across the French border. As the sun begins to set, we arrive back in Paris, where it all began. We check into our hotel for our final overnight stay, reflecting on an incredible journey across the heart of Europe.
Day 23. (Sunday) PARIS
Breakfast at the hotel. Our grand European adventure officially comes to its end. You have the option to extend your stay in Paris to delve deeper into its world-class museums and bohemian districts. Alternatively, why not continue your discovery of Europe with us? We offer a spectacular range of extension packages to Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.
Summary
- Departure city: FRANCE, Paris
- Returning city: FRANCE, Paris
- Cities where we will travel through:
- Countries where the tour goes: AUSTRIA, BELGIUM, CZECH REPUBLIC, FRANCE, GERMANY, HUNGARY, ITALY, NETHERLANDS - HOLLAND, SLOVAKIA, SWITZERLAND
- Nº days of the tour: 23
- Departure day of the tour: Saturday
- Price: from 3595 €
- Tour code: 37849-2300000S0-04-CDGDCG-G
Please note that
Exceptionally, the itinerary and the order of the excursions could be altered and modified for organizational reasons. Depending on hotel availability or in case of last minute reservations, the provided hotels may be replaced by others of the same category (see list of planned hotels at Scheduled Hotels).
