Best of Europe

Welcome to London! This morning, meet your tour leader and set off on a city tour. London is a bustling city filled with a variety of cultures, historic relics, art, royal landmarks, and modern architecture! Head to a traditional English pub for an authentic British lunch before diving into the city’s history with a Westminster tour. Witness renowned landmarks such as Big Ben, the Palaces of Westminster, and Westminster Abbey. Admire Buckingham Palace and wave to the British Royal family. This evening, join the Thames, Towers & Tastes optional excursion for a River Thames cruise and tour around the top Thames attractions. Then, tuck into a classic fish ‘n’ chips dinner!

Depart London and journey to Paris, crossing the English Channel into the 'City of Lights and Love'. Upon arrival, your tour leader will guide you through key sites on a relaxing driving tour of the city. Spot iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Arc de Triomphe. This evening, enjoy dinner with the group at a city restaurant before returning to the hotel. Rest up for a day of Parisian adventures tomorrow!

Enjoy a full day of exploration in the captivating French capital! Wander its charming streets at your own pace, or join the optional Paris+ adventure for the quintessential French experience. Featuring a cruise on the Seine River, a macaron tasting, a visit to the Arc de Triomphe and a renowned perfume museum, a sightseeing cruise, a trip to the Montparnasse Tower for panoramic views, and more! Tonight, choose to delve into the beautiful Montmartre neighbourhood with a local guide. End the evening with the optional cabaret show to add a touch of glamour to your Parisian adventure!

Say au revoir to Paris this morning and make a stop in the Champagne region to indulge in a tasting of one of France's most famed exports, Champagne! Next, journey to Luxembourg and enjoy free time to explore the capital of one of Europe's smallest countries. Today’s final destination is Heidelberg, Germany's oldest university town. Renowned for its Altstadt (old town), ruined Renaissance hilltop castle, and beautiful riverside cityscape, enjoy an orientation tour of the city centre with free time to explore the old town afterward. End the night with an included dinner with the group.

Venture to Germany's Schwarzwald (Black Forest) today, home of the delectable Black Forest gâteau, iconic cuckoo clocks, and the tales of Hansel and Gretel. Visit the town of Triberg where you can get a picture with the world’s largest cuckoo clock. Then, arrive on the shores of Lake Titisee and discover the charming spa town of Titisee. Enjoy a leisurely lunch before crossing into Switzerland to marvel at the breathtaking Rhine Falls, Europe's largest plain waterfall. Make the most out of your free time here by exploring this stunning destination or opting for a boat ride to the falls. Later, arrive in Lucerne for an orientation tour, providing a delightful introduction to the city before travelling to tonight's accommodation.

Today offers a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Lucerne region, hailed as one of Switzerland's most exquisite cities. It has postcard-perfect scenery that reflects the quintessentially picturesque Swiss experience with its cobalt lake and well-preserved old town boasting waterfront promenades, covered bridges, and idyllic plazas nestled amidst the majestic Swiss Alps. Beyond its natural beauty and rich history, Lucerne pulsates with modern vitality, offering a vibrant selection of carnivals, concerts, and exhibitions!

Prepare for an adventure spanning four countries in a single day! Depart from Switzerland and journey to the Alpine principality of Liechtenstein, the world's sixth smallest nation. Explore its capital, Vaduz, and soak in the picturesque scenery. Next, venture to Neuschwanstein Castle, a 19th-century German marvel atop a hill, famously inspiring Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle. Admission to the castle is included in the tour package. End the day in Innsbruck, Austria, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere fueled by a sizable student population. Discover the city's highlights with an orientation tour. To experience local culture at its best, join the immersive Tyrol Folk Evening & Dinner tonight!

It’s time for the tour to head south to Italy! This timeless destination is renowned for its centuries of captivating history, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine. En route to Siena, the tour pauses in Modena, famed for its exquisite balsamic vinegar. Enjoy a tasting of this regional specialty before continuing the journey. Upon arrival in Siena, your tour leader will lead a brief orientation tour of the enchanting historic city centre, which is followed by free time to explore the charming streets at leisure.

The highlights of Tuscany await! Today, the tour heads to two iconic destinations, Florence and Pisa. Begin the day with a visit to a local leather factory in Florence, immersing yourself in the artistry of Italian leather crafting. Then, delve into an orientation tour of Florence, and see landmarks like the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the famed Ponte Vecchio. Afterward, enjoy free time to soak the city's charms or opt for the Taste of Tuscany excursion. Then, hop back on the coach and travel to today’s last stop, the timeless Leaning Tower of Pisa! This is a must-see marvel dating back over 800 years. Capture the perfect snapshot before returning to Siena for the evening.

Get ready to be swept off your feet by Rome's grandeur! Today, explore Italy's capital with a local guide, taking in iconic landmarks like the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant atmosphere as you explore its storied streets and don’t forget to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good luck! This evening, enjoy a delicious dinner with your fellow travellers.

Explore Rome your way on today’s free day! Discover ancient ruins, historical landmarks, culinary delights, and religious wonders at your own pace. Or, join the optional excursions to experience some of Rome’s most iconic sites. Step back in time with a visit to the Colosseum or the Roman Forum and immerse yourself in the grandeur of gladiatorial battles and ancient civilisations. Venture to the Vatican City, the world's smallest country, to admire the awe-inspiring collections of the museums, and behold the timeless beauty of Michelangelo's masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel. Due to popularity, these excursions must be booked prior to the start of the tour.

Swap churches for canals today as the tour ventures to Venice, the famous "floating city" which is home to famous sights like the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Square. The afternoon is yours to explore as you wish. Opt for the Evening in Venice optional excursion for an unmissable way to experience this magical city. This excursion includes a water taxi cruise, a traditional gondola ride and dinner. Venice is truly best experienced from the canals!

Journey towards Zagreb in Croatia today with a delightful stop in Ljubljana, Slovenia's charming capital. Often hailed as a hidden gem of Europe, Ljubljana boasts a captivating castle, remarkable architecture, and natural wonders beyond its small size. Later, arrive in Zagreb and embark on an orientation tour to acquaint yourself with Croatia's capital city. Discover an interesting blend of Habsburg and Communist architecture as you dive into Croatia's rich history while glimpsing everyday life in this charming city. Later, check into tonight's hotel with time to freshen up before enjoying an included dinner with the group.

Budapest beckons! Today, the tour will cross into Hungary and head to what is said to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe! Nestled along the historic Danube River, Budapest boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, alongside its famed natural geothermal springs. Delve into the city's charm with a guided driving tour, unravelling Hungary's rich history amidst its top attractions. Later, enjoy free time to explore at leisure. Consider indulging in the optional Danube Dinner Cruise, an enchanting experience offering unparalleled views of Budapest's illuminated skyline and historic landmarks from the tranquil waters — a truly unforgettable way to cap off your day in this mesmerising city!

Farewell Budapest, it’s been magical! Today, travel to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, and enjoy an orientation tour of this city that is surrounded by mountains, vineyards, ski runs, and wilderness. Take in the sights and spot Bratislava's iconic castle perched above the city. Then, onwards to Vienna, Austria's capital, where history and culture intertwine seamlessly. Join a local guide for a comprehensive walking and driving tour, unravelling Vienna's rich artistic and musical legacy. From the classical brilliance of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven to its imperial grandeur, magnificent concert halls, cafés, restaurants, and nightlife, Vienna captivates with its timeless charm and vibrant modern culture!

Enjoy a free day to uncover the treasures of Vienna! Steeped in imperial grandeur, Vienna served as the heart of the formidable Habsburg monarchy from the 16th to the 18th century. History enthusiasts can marvel at the opulent palaces of this era during an optional tour of Schönbrunn Palace before enjoying coffee at a Viennese Café. For classical music lovers, indulge in an optional excursion to experience the timeless melodies of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the greatest composers of the Viennese classical period. This captivating concert will be held in the Schönbrunn Palace Orangery! Before, enjoy a three-course dinner. Alternatively, get lost in the city's charm – wander cobbled streets, discover hidden cafés, or visit museums showcasing Vienna's artistic legacy.

Today, journey to the Czech Republic, where the enchanting city of Prague awaits! Renowned for its stunning mix of Baroque, Gothic, Art Nouveau, and Cubist architecture, Prague captivates visitors with its city views, charming bars, winding cobblestone streets, and hidden courtyards. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history as a local guide leads an insightful walking tour to uncover Prague's iconic landmarks. Enjoy a free afternoon to further explore the city and its famous beer culture at your own pace. This evening, opt for the traditional Czech folk show, a lively celebration featuring music, dance, and a delectable four-course meal, promising an unforgettable night of cultural immersion and culinary delights!

The tour's first stop today is the German city of Dresden. Rebuilt after WWII, Dresden boasts a unique story of resilience and restoration. Wander the streets of this picturesque reborn city, sampling local German delicacies like Bratwurst along the way. Afterward, continue to Berlin, the capital of Germany. This captivating city blends history and modern energy, leaving behind a turbulent past. Upon arrival, set off on a driving tour of the city, pausing at poignant landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, and Checkpoint Charlie. End the day with an included group dinner tonight.

Seize the opportunity to delve deeper into Berlin's rich history today! The solemn presence of the remaining section of the Berlin Wall serves as a poignant reminder of the city's past divisions, yet the vibrant street art that now adorns it gives it a sense of peace and purpose. Explore the multitude of free museums and galleries that offer invaluable insights into Berlin's modern history and enrich your understanding of this dynamic city. For an in-depth exploration, consider joining the optional Berlin+ excursion, which includes iconic landmarks such as the East Side Gallery, Hackescher Markt, the Berlin TV Tower, and more.

Say Auf Wiedersehen to Germany this morning as the tour continues to the Netherlands! En route to Amsterdam, witness the scenery transform into a picturesque scene of windmills and waterways. Arrive and indulge in a taste of local cuisine during an included dinner. Then, seize the opportunity to explore Amsterdam's famed cafés, bars, and restaurants during your free time tonight, soaking in the lively atmosphere and vibrant culture of this iconic city.

Start the day with an unforgettable canal cruise, offering breathtaking views of Amsterdam's bridges and enchanting architecture. The rest of the day is free to explore Amsterdam’s charming streets and world-renowned museums as you wish! For an authentic Dutch experience, consider joining the optional countryside excursion. Explore a local farm to witness the traditional craftsmanship of Dutch cheese and clogs before venturing to the historic villages of Volendam and Zaanse Schans, where iconic windmills dot the landscape. End the day with the optional Dutch Pancake Soiree to add a taste of traditional Dutch cuisine to your trip!

The final day of the tour has arrived but the adventure is not over just yet! There is one more stop before travelling back to the UK, the Belgian city of Bruges. Renowned for its picturesque beauty and stunning architecture, Bruges exudes an enchanting atmosphere reminiscent of a fairytale. Enjoy free time in this city described as the 'Venice of the North' before embarking on the final leg of the journey back to London, crossing the English Channel along the way. As the tour comes to a close, take the opportunity to exchange contact details with your newfound friends and travel companions so you can keep in touch. Wishing you a safe journey home!