European Discovery (Small Groups, Start London, End Paris, 16 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a 16-day journey through Europe's most enchanting cities, from London to Rome, with our meticulously planned multi-day tour. Experience the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes of Europe as you traverse through the United Kingdom, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, Italy, and France. This tour offers an immersive experience with visits to iconic landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and hidden gems. Enjoy authentic local cuisine, meet friendly locals, and learn about the traditions and legends that make each destination unique. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, this tour offers something for everyone.
Included
7 Dinner with Wine (DW)
15 Breakfast (B)
Amsterdam: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of Amsterdam for a delightful Welcome Dinner, served with wine.
Salzburg: Relish in the authentic experience of farm-to-table dining.
Lucerne: Choose from a selection of restaurants on your Dine-Around Evening and hand-pick your preferred ambience, cuisine and drinks for an intimate culinary experience.
Paris: Join an avid local foodie on a walk through the streets of Paris. Visit a variety of patisseries, boulangeries and chocolatiers and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.
Paris: Rendezvous with your friends at a typical French bistro for a rousing Celebration Dinner with wine. Bon Appetit!
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
15 nights in twin-share rooms at hand-picked hotels
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Venice: With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.
Rome: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the medieval buildings, including Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches, scattered throughout the city.
Lucerne: During your orientation with your Travel Director, see the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Prague: Stroll through the Jewish Quarter with your Local Expert to hear how the Jewish community has shaped the history of Prague, and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry.
Prague: Visit the imposing St. Vitus Cathedral and explore the atmospheric courtyards of the historic Prague Castle with your Local Expert.
Paris: We walk up and down the "quartier" and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theatres, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighbourhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc's spectacular jardin vertical 'oasis d'Aboukir', the Napoleonic "Egyptian" district etc.
Paris: Join an avid local foodie on a walk through the streets of Paris. Visit a variety of patisseries, boulangeries and chocolatiers and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini's first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.
Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft.
The workshop advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Stanserhorn: Walk along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, with the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora.
London: Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.
Amsterdam: Cruise along the old waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
Wurzburg: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Würzburg Residence.
Wurzburg: Stand on the statue-lined Alte Mainbrucke and see the Marienburg fortress.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the best-preserved medieval town in Germany and a truly enchanting destination. Step back in time and explore the city walls, towers, and gates around the old town as well as the old town itself.
Salzburg: Join your Local Expert to visit the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace and Residence Square - both locations used in 'The Sound of Music.' You will also see the imposing fortress, the immense cathedral and Mozart's birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse.
Rome: Experience Rome through the eyes of a local, as a passionate Roman guides you through vibrant backstreets, showing you how modern life takes place around ancient treasures.
Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the multi-coloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods.
Cinque Terre: Led by your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site with dedicated time to explore two of the five charming fishing villages.
Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit.
Paris: Explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris. See famous landmarks including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower and the facades of the Louvre. Stroll the banks of the River Seine and admire romantic bridges, and enjoy a drive along the Champs Elysées to the Arc de Triomphe.
"One food I really love introducing my guests to is tramezzini sandwiches because they are a real art form in Venice. For the locals it is a quick inexpensive bite to get them through the day...best eaten standing up at the bar!"
"It's magical to see how a group of guests comes together over the course of our trip. I can always tell when that's happening because suddenly the enthusiasm is palpable."
"Paris is truly a delight to all the senses – seeing the iconic architecture, hearing about the history, smelling the wonderful bakeries and tasting the local specialties during our foodie walk."
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: London to Amsterdam via Brussels
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
- More
Begin your journey in London, where you'll meet your Travel Director and board the high-speed Eurostar at St. Pancras Station. Travel through the historic Channel Tunnel to Brussels, and then drive to Amsterdam. In the evening, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception. Enjoy a canal cruise through the heart of the Old City and savor a delightful dinner with wine at a local restaurant.
Day 2 – Day 2: Amsterdam to Würzburg
- Amsterdam
- More
- Würzburg Residence
- Old Main Bridge
- More
Travel through the picturesque Rhine Valley and into Germany, arriving in Würzburg. Take a leisurely stroll through the heart of the Old Town and visit the imposing Würzburg Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a Local Expert.
Day 3 – Day 3: Würzburg to Prague via Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Pilsen
- Prague
- More
- Rothenburger Tor
- Marienberg Fortress
- More
Venture to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the most well-preserved town on the Romantic Road. Continue east to the Czech border, passing the town of Pilsen, renowned for its beer, to reach the Golden City of Prague. In the evening, consider taking a river cruise through the heart of the city.
Day 4 – Day 4: Exploring Prague
- Prague
- More
Spend the day exploring Prague. Choose to walk the courtyards of the Castle and visit the imposing St. Vitus Cathedral or join your Local Expert through the Jewish Quarter. In the afternoon, see the mighty Marienburg Fortress, one of the most important landmarks in Germany. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure.
Day 5 – Day 5: Prague to Salzburg
- Salzburg
- More
Travel through the Czech Republic and over the Austrian border to Salzburg, the city of Mozart and the 'Sound of Music.' A Local Expert will show you the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace. Later, witness the imposing fortress, immense cathedral, and Mozart’s birthplace. In the evening, experience authentic Farm-to-Table dining at a local restaurant in Salzburg.
Day 6 – Day 6: Salzburg to Venice
Day 6: Salzburg to Venice
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Salzburg before heading to the romantic city of Venice, Queen of the Adriatic. Consider visiting the Kehlsteinhaus - the Eagle’s Nest, a unique example of historic architecture in a stunning alpine setting. Your hotel in Venice is perfectly located in one of the quietest, peaceful, and authentic Venetian districts.
Day 7 – Day 7: Exploring Venice
Day 7: Exploring Venice
Embrace the romance of Venice. Visit the immense Campanile and Doge's Palace on St. Mark's Square. Witness the skill of glassblowers on a visit to a traditional arts centre. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Consider cruising the Venetian lagoon to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine.
Day 8 – Day 8: Venice to Rome
- Rome
- More
Travel through the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria, following the course of the Tiber to the Eternal City of Rome. This evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 9 – Day 9: Exploring Rome
- Rome
- More
Explore Rome with a Local Expert. Enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, toss a coin into the spectacular Trevi Fountain, and see the best-preserved monument from the Roman period - the Pantheon. Spend your free time in Piazza Navona, doing as the Romans do. Consider joining a tour inside the Catacombs with our local expert.
Day 10 – Day 10: Rome to Florence
- Florence
- More
Start the day with a visit to the Vatican State, the richest community in the world. Admire the Papal art collection in the Vatican Museums, Michelangelo's famous ceiling in the Sistine Chapel, and Bernini's intricately carved Papal Altar in St. Peter's Basilica. Continue through peaceful Umbria and Tuscany to arrive at the city of Florence. A Local Expert will accompany you to the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city.
Day 11 – Day 11: Florence to Cinque Terre and Rapallo
Day 11: Florence to Cinque Terre and Rapallo
The famous Italian Riviera and the Cinque Terre are a highlight of your journey. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes. With a Local Expert, appreciate the views as you approach one of the picturesque fishing villages. Continue to your resort in Rapallo, where you'll savor authentic Italian cuisine with a delicious dinner.
Day 12 – Day 12: Rapallo to Lucerne via Lake Lugano
- Lucerne
- More
Pass Milan as you head north for the Italian Lake District via Lake Lugano. Continue into the heart of the Swiss Alps, passing through the Saint Gotthard Tunnel, one of the longest road tunnels in the world. Arrive at scenic Lake Lucerne, where you have the rest of the afternoon at leisure.
Day 13 – Day 13: Exploring Lucerne
- Lucerne
- More
Explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-top cable car powered by solar panels take you up the summit. Upon return to Lucerne, see the town's proud Lion Monument, stroll across the covered Chapel Bridge, and see the baroque Jesuit church. The rest of the day is at leisure to shop for fine watches and delectable chocolates. Tonight, enjoy a fine selection of restaurants to choose from for your Dine-Around Evening.
Day 14 – Day 14: Lucerne to Paris
- Paris
- More
Journey through the rural French countryside of Burgundy to arrive in the vibrant City of Light, Paris. During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the imposing facades of the Louvre. Discover the banks of the Seine with its many romantic bridges. With the evening free, there are countless opportunities to enjoy the lively atmosphere of this glittering city.
Day 15 – Day 15: Exploring Paris
- Paris
- More
Your exploration of Paris today starts with an Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district or join an avid foodie to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. In the evening, indulge in refined French cuisine during your Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole, frequently visited by the French entertainer Josephine Baker.
Day 16 – Day 16: Departure from Paris
- Paris - Departure day
- More
Bid farewell to your travelling companions as your journey comes to an end. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport.
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.