Europe's Heartland 2025|2026 - 25 Days (from Paris to Zurich)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of Europe, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. Begin your journey in the romantic city of Paris, exploring iconic landmarks and world-renowned museums. Cruise along the Seine to discover charming towns and medieval castles, each with its own unique story to tell. Delve into the poignant history of the Normandy Beaches and the Somme Battlefields, and savor the flavors of Normandy's culinary delights. Continue your adventure through the picturesque villages and vibrant cities of the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, where you'll experience a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. From the enchanting canals of Utrecht to the medieval charm of Cochem, each day offers new discoveries and unforgettable experiences. Conclude your journey in the scenic landscapes of Switzerland, where fond memories of your European adventure will linger long after you've returned home.
Included
24 breakfasts, 22 lunches, 24 dinners
Airport transfers outside Australia are included
Luxurious suites
Scenic Gem : Royal Suite ,Deluxe Suite ,Suite ,Standard Suite, Scenic Pearl: Royal Owner's Suite ,Royal Suite ,Royal Panorama Suite ,Junior Suite ,Suite ,Standard Stateroom, Scenic Ruby: Royal Owner's Suite ,Royal Suite ,Royal Panorama Suite ,Junior Suite ,Suite ,Standard Stateroom
Expert cruise manager
All sightseeing and activities stated as included.
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Paris
- Paris - Arrival day
- More
- Jardin des plantes
- Louvre Museum
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- More
Begin your journey in the enchanting city of Paris, where the iconic Eiffel Tower and the majestic Arc de Triomphe await your admiration. Explore the world-renowned Louvre Museum, home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, and stroll through the serene Jardin des Tuileries. Upon arrival, settle into your luxurious suite aboard the Scenic Space-Ship, where a warm welcome from the crew awaits. Relax with a drink on the Sun Deck as you prepare for the adventures ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Les Andelys
- Les Andelys
- More
- Château Gaillard
- Les Jardins d'Angélique
- More
Cruise to the picturesque town of Les Andelys, nestled along the Seine. Explore the medieval ruins of Château Gaillard, once the stronghold of Richard the Lionheart, and enjoy panoramic views of the river and countryside. Alternatively, visit the charming village of Lyons la Forêt, surrounded by lush beech forests, and learn about local cider production at Le Pressoir d'or.
Day 3 – Day 3: Rouen
- Rouen
- More
- Rouen Cathedral
- Évreux Cathedral
- More
Discover the vibrant city of Rouen, the capital of Normandy, with its rich history and stunning architecture. Visit the magnificent Rouen Cathedral and explore the charming Old Town, where Joan of Arc was famously tried and executed. Choose from guided tours focusing on the city's medieval past or photography workshops to capture its beauty. In the evening, enjoy a lecture on WWI and indulge in exquisite desserts prepared by a local pâtissier.
Day 4 – Day 4: Rouen and Somme
- Rouen
- More
- Somme 1916 Museum
- Natural History Museum
- More
Embark on a poignant journey to the Somme Battlefields, where you'll visit memorials and museums dedicated to the soldiers who fought in WWI. Alternatively, explore Rouen's Fine Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of artworks. In the evening, savor the flavors of Normandy with a tasting tour of local cheeses, ciders, and Calvados.
Day 5 – Day 5: Honfleur
- Honfleur
- More
- Château de Saint-Germain-de-Livet
- Carmel of Lisieux
- La Lieutenance
- More
Arrive in the charming coastal town of Honfleur, known for its picturesque harbor, Le Vieux Bassin. Explore the cobbled streets and visit the Church of Sainte-Catherine, France's largest wooden church. Stroll through the Garden of Personalities, where busts of notable French figures are displayed. In the evening, attend a lecture on WWII to prepare for tomorrow's historical excursions.
Day 6 – Day 6: Normandy Beaches
- Honfleur
- More
- Château Canon
- Bayeux Cathedral
- Botanical Garden
- More
Delve into the history of the D-Day Landings with visits to the Normandy Beaches. Choose from excursions focusing on Omaha Beach, the Bayeux War Cemetery, or the Juno Beach Centre. Alternatively, explore the town of Bayeux and its famous tapestry. Each tour offers a unique perspective on the events of WWII and the liberation of Europe.
Day 7 – Day 7: Caudebec-En-Caux
- Fécamp
- More
- Fisheries Museum
- Labyrinthe des Falaises
- Église Notre-Dame de Caudebec-en-Caux
- More
Explore the quaint town of Caudebec-En-Caux, with its beautiful Notre Dame church. Choose from excursions to the Victor Hugo Museum in Villequier, the Benedictine Palace in Fecamp, or a tour of the Normandy Abbeys. Each option offers a unique insight into the region's rich history and culture.
Day 8 – Day 8: Vernon and Giverny
- Vernon
- Giverny
- La Roche-Guyon
- More
- Château Gaillard
- Biotropica, animal gardens
- More
Visit the charming town of Vernon and journey to Giverny to explore Monet's House and Garden, a haven for art lovers. Alternatively, enjoy a self-guided cycling tour from Vernon to Giverny. In the evening, experience an exclusive concert at Château de La Roche Guyon, set against the backdrop of a historic castle.
Day 9 – Day 9: Conflans-Saint-Honore
- Auvers-sur-Oise
- Chantilly
- More
- Champ de Mars
- Queen's House
- More
Explore the medieval town of Conflans-Saint-Honore, then choose from excursions to the artistic village of Auvers-Sur-Oise, where Van Gogh spent his final days, or the opulent Chantilly Castle. Alternatively, enjoy a kayaking adventure on the River Oise. In the afternoon, relax on board as you cruise back to Paris.
Day 10 – Day 10: Paris
- Paris
- More
- Versailles cathedral
- Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
- Eiffel Tower
- Palais Garnier
- More
Return to Paris for a day of exploration. First-time visitors can enjoy a highlights tour, including the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. Alternatively, discover the trendy Marais District or the opulent Opera Garnier. For a taste of grandeur, visit Château Vaux-le-Vicomte. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, exploring the city's vibrant streets and iconic landmarks.
Day 11 – Day 11: Paris to Amsterdam
- Paris
- Amsterdam
- More
Bid farewell to Paris as you board your included flight to Amsterdam. Upon arrival, embark on your Scenic Space-Ship for a 14-night cruise along the Romantic Rhine and Moselle. Settle into your luxurious accommodations and prepare for the next chapter of your journey.
Day 12 – Day 12: Utrecht
- Utrecht
- More
- Dom Tower of Utrecht
- Zuylen Castle
- More
Sail towards the vibrant city of Utrecht, where you'll explore its charming canals and green spaces. Visit the iconic Domtoren, a beacon in the medieval Old Town, or venture to the fairy-tale De Haar Castle, the largest in the Netherlands. Enjoy a guided tour and admire the castle's stunning architecture and gardens.
Day 13 – Day 13: Veere
Day 13: Veere
- Renesse Strand
- Terra Maris
- More
Arrive in the picturesque village of Veere, known for its historic harbor and Scottish ties. Discover the village's heritage buildings on a guided tour or enjoy a cycling adventure along the dykes. Alternatively, visit the impressive Delta Works, a marvel of engineering designed to protect the region from flooding.
Day 14 – Day 14: Antwerp
- Antwerp
- More
- D'Ursel Castle
- Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal
- More
Explore the vibrant city of Antwerp, renowned as the diamond capital of the world. Visit the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady and the historic Steen Castle. Alternatively, embark on a full-day excursion to the WWI battlefields of Passchendaele and Ypres, or enjoy a craft beer and chocolate pairing experience.
Day 15 – Day 15: Arnhem
- Arnhem
- More
- Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45
- Netherlands Open Air Museum
- More
Discover the city of Arnhem, surrounded by lush landscapes and rich history. Visit the Arnhem Airborne Museum to learn about the Battle of Arnhem or explore the Netherlands Open Air Museum for a glimpse into Dutch life of the past. Alternatively, enjoy a biking tour through the scenic countryside.
Day 16 – Day 16: Dusseldorf
- Dusseldorf
- More
- Schnütgen Museum
- Duisburg Inner Harbour
- More
Explore the affluent city of Dusseldorf, known for its blend of old and new. Discover the architectural wonders of Media Harbour or visit the K 21 Museum for contemporary art. Alternatively, enjoy a cycling tour along the Rhine or learn about Dusseldorf's beer traditions with a tasting of Altbier.
Day 17 – Day 17: Moselle River
- Beilstein
- Cochem
- More
Sail along the scenic Moselle River, passing charming villages and vineyards. Relax in the comfort of your suite and enjoy the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, indulge in a Moselle Wine Degustation, sampling local varieties. Arrive in the medieval town of Cochem in the evening.
Day 18 – Day 18: Cochem
- Cochem
- More
- Nürburg Castle
- More
Step into a fairy-tale as you explore the enchanting town of Cochem. Visit the medieval Reichsburg Castle for a guided tour or enjoy a cycling adventure through the picturesque streets. In the afternoon, set sail for Bernkastel, another charming riverside town.
Day 19 – Day 19: Bernkastel
- Trier
- More
- Bundesbank-Bunker Cochem
- Kastellaun Castle
- More
Explore the historic town of Bernkastel, known for its famous Riesling vineyards and the ruins of Landshut Castle. Choose from a walking tour of the town, an excursion to the Roman city of Trier, or a wine tasting along the Moselle. In the evening, enjoy a private classical concert at Liebfrauenkirche in Trier.
Day 20 – Day 20: Koblenz
Day 20: Koblenz
- Marksburg
- More
Discover the historic city of Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet. Enjoy a guided walking tour or visit the impressive Marksburg Castle. Alternatively, explore the charming medieval town of Limburg. Spend the evening in Koblenz, with time to explore the city after dark.
Day 21 – Day 21: Rhine Gorge
Day 21: Rhine Gorge
- Loreley-linie port
- More
Cruise through the stunning Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the hilltop castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock. Arrive in the charming town of Rüdesheim, where you can visit Siegfried's Musikkabinett Museum or enjoy a hike through the vineyards. Spend the evening exploring the town's enchanting laneways.
Day 22 – Day 22: Mannheim
- Mannheim
- Bad Dürkheim
- More
- Heidelberg Palace
- Kriemhildenstuhl
- More
Explore the city of Mannheim and choose from excursions to the historic Heidelberg Castle or the renowned Fritz Ritter Vineyard in Bad Durkheim. Enjoy guided tours and tastings as you immerse yourself in the region's rich history and culture. In the afternoon, set sail for Kehl.
Day 23 – Day 23: Kehl and Strasbourg
- Strasbourg
- More
- Sulzbach Wasserpfad
- Museum Ritterhaus
- More
Discover the charming town of Strasbourg, with its unique blend of French and German influences. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city's highlights, including the Strasbourg Cathedral and Petit France. Alternatively, explore the Alsace Wine Region with a visit to the picturesque village of Mittelbergheim.
Day 24 – Day 24: Breisach
- Colmar
- Freiburg im Breisgau
- More
- Wasserschlössle
- More
Explore the food and wine destination of Breisach, located between the Rhine River and the Black Forest. Choose from excursions to the Kaiserstuhl wine region, the fairy-tale city of Colmar, or the picturesque town of Freiburg. Enjoy tastings and guided tours as you discover the region's culinary delights.
Day 25 – Day 25: Zurich
- Zurich - Departure day
- More
Conclude your unforgettable journey with a transfer to Zurich for your onward flight. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories made during your multi-day tour through the heart of Europe. Safe travels and see you on your next adventure!
Similar tours
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.