Romantic European (Small Groups, Start Amsterdam, End Paris, 19 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 19-day journey through Europe's most captivating cities and landscapes. From the charming canals of Amsterdam to the romantic allure of Paris, this multi-day tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Explore iconic landmarks, indulge in local delicacies, and enjoy unique experiences in each destination. With expert guides and comfortable accommodations, you'll discover the heart of Europe in style and comfort. Whether cruising along the Danube in Budapest, marveling at the art in Florence, or savoring the culinary delights of Paris, this tour promises an enriching and memorable adventure. Join us for an extraordinary exploration of Europe's treasures, where every day brings new discoveries and unforgettable moments.
Included
18 night accommodation
6 Dinner with Wine (DW)
18 Breakfast (B)
2 Lunch with Wine (LW)
Amsterdam: Toast to the travels ahead during your Welcome Dinner of modern European cuisine at a local restaurant.
Budapest: Enjoy a scenic dinner cruise and take in the city's night time beauty as you float along the Danube.
Venice: Savour a Venetian Celebration Dinner with wine in a restaurant in the heart of this historic city.
Tuscany: Enjoy a tasting of locally made wines and sample delicious Tuscan snacks in the underground cellar of Machiavelli's home. While here you will visit the Italian gardens and be privy to a private opening of the office where he wrote 'The Prince.'
Umbria: Explore the art of Italian cooking with Chef Lorenzo followed by a tasty lunch.
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: Rendezvous with your newfound friends at La Coupole for a rousing dinner with wine.
San Casciano in Val di Pesa: Experience an enchanting lunch time concert presented by the Prima Materia Association, the visionary creators of the Community Music project, Musicatoio. This initiative has rapidly evolved into one of the region's most impactful socio-cultural programmes, committed to enriching the community by harnessing the transformative power of music. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 Quality Education & 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities.
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: Explore Prague with your local expert, walk the courtyards of the Castle and visit the imposing St. Vitus Cathedral. The city is then yours to explore. Maybe take a river cruise through the heart of the city or walk in the footsteps of kings along the Royal Route? Czechs are passionate about their beer, so be sure to try the local pilsners together with hearty Czech cuisine.
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 a local food lover 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.
Budapest: Enjoy a tour of the Liszt Music Academy with a student, followed by an enchanting recital. Producing incredible musical talent, the university was founded by piano virtuoso and composer Franz Liszt in 1875.
Vienna: Be pampered with traditional coffee and cake. An experience like no other, this cosy café provides companionship, and promotes well-being and support for the community, in addition to crafting delicious treats.
Tuscany: Meet your Local Expert for a guided visit through the house of the Italian Renaissance diplomat and writer, Niccolo Machiavelli, with a special opening of his private office where he wrote 'The Prince.'
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. This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
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. 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. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 15: Affordable and Clean Energy & Life on Land.
Amsterdam: Cruise along the waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
Wurzburg: Stand on the statue-lined Alte Mainbrucke and see the Marienburg fortress.
Wurzburg: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Würzburg Residence.
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.
Vienna: Join your Local Expert for a city tour that reveals both the renowned sights and hidden gems of Vienna's historic core. Travel along the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche.
Rome: Discover the history, the construction and the legends of the iconic Colosseum as you stroll around the exterior of this amazing structure.
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.
Florence: See the historic neighbourhood of the Santa Croce Basilica and witness local craftspersons at work during a gold and leatherwork demonstration.
Lucerne: See the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge.
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.
Budapest: Stroll through the alleys of the Old Town of Buda with a Local Expert.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
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.
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.
Paris: Experience the magic of Paris with Insight Vacations as you explore its iconic sights, landmarks, and charming streets. Meander along the picturesque banks of the River Seine, delving into the rich history of its beautiful bridges and renowned landmarks, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe. Whether from the comfort of your coach or a scenic vantage point, immerse yourself in the timeless stories that bring this enchanting city to life.
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.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Amsterdam
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
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- Soestdijk Palace
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Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Amsterdam. Spend your day at leisure exploring the charming streets and canals. In the evening, join your Travel Director for a delightful Welcome Reception. Get acquainted with fellow travelers as you embark on a canal cruise through the heart of the Old City, followed by a sumptuous dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2 – Day 2: Amsterdam to Würzburg
- Amsterdam
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Relax as you journey through the picturesque Rhine Valley, arriving in Würzburg. Witness the grandeur of the Marienburg Fortress, a significant baroque palace. Upon arrival, explore the Würzburg Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a Local Expert. Be captivated by the intricate decorations and lavish staterooms.
Day 3 – Day 3: Würzburg to Prague
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Prague
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- Rothenburger Tor
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Begin your day with a visit to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a beautifully preserved town on the Romantic Road. Continue eastward, passing through Pilsen, famous for its beer, before reaching the enchanting city of Prague. In the evening, consider a river cruise through the city's heart for a unique perspective.
Day 4 – Day 4: Explore Prague
- Prague
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- Jerusalem Synagogue
- St. Vitus Cathedral
- Prague Castle
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Discover Prague with an Insight Choice. Opt to explore the courtyards of the Castle and visit the impressive St. Vitus Cathedral, or join a Local Expert in the Jewish Quarter to learn about its rich history and savor Trdelník, a traditional pastry. The rest of the day is yours to explore, shop for Bohemian crystal, or enjoy an optional countryside experience.
Day 5 – Day 5: Prague to Budapest
- Budapest
- Prague
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- Shoes on the Danube Bank
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Travel through the scenic Bohemian countryside, following the River Danube to the captivating city of Budapest. In the evening, enjoy a scenic dinner cruise with a Local Expert, taking in the breathtaking views of the city, known as the 'Pearl of the Danube.'
Day 6 – Day 6: Discover Budapest
- Budapest
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- Heroes' Square
- Gellért Hill
- Fisherman's Bastion
- Dohány Street Synagogue
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Explore Budapest's iconic sites, starting with a drive along Andrassy Avenue to Heroes' Square. Stroll through the Old Town of Buda and enjoy panoramic views from the Fisherman's Bastion. Ascend Gellért Hill to see the Liberty Statue and take in the stunning vistas of the city divided by the Danube.
Day 7 – Day 7: Budapest to Vienna
- Budapest
- Vienna
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- Turul Monument
- Mining Museum Csolnok
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Begin your day with a tour of the Liszt Music Academy, followed by a captivating recital. Continue your journey past the Turul Monument, a large eagle statue, as you head towards the Austrian border. Travel through scenic farming country to reach Vienna, the imperial capital.
Day 8 – Day 8: Explore Vienna
- Vienna
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- Burg Perchtoldsdorf
- Wienerwaldsee
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Burgruine Mödling
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Opt for a private tour of the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace and its gardens. Capture the beauty of Vienna as you drive along the Ring Road, admiring architectural masterpieces like the Opera House and Hofburg Imperial Residence. Join a Local Expert for a walk through the historic Innere Stadt, and enjoy traditional coffee and cake at a cozy café.
Day 9 – Day 9: Vienna to Venice
- Venice
- Vienna
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- Venetian Arsenal
- Doge's Palace
- Bridge of Sighs
- Piazza Manzoni
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Travel through the serene landscapes of Styria's forested mountains and the Carinthian Lake District. Pass by the warm waters of Wörthersee before crossing into Italy near Tarvisio. Descend through mountain valleys to the Veneto Plain, arriving in the enchanting city of Venice. Enjoy a private boat transfer to your hotel and unwind with a cocktail at Piazza San Marco, serenaded by musicians. Conclude your day with a magical dinner in the heart of San Marco.
Day 10 – Day 10: Discover Venice
- Burano
- Venice
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- Doge's Palace
- Piazza San Marco
- Bridge of Sighs
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Immerse yourself in the romance of Venice. Visit St. Mark's Square to see the towering Campanile and the Doge's Palace, linked to the ancient prisons by the Bridge of Sighs. Experience a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience by witnessing the artistry of glassblowers at a traditional arts center. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps exploring the Venetian lagoon or shopping in the arcades.
Day 11 – Day 11: Venice to Rome
- Rome
- Venice
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- Fattoria Viticcio
- Parco della Rocca
- Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
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Travel through the Apennine Mountains to the serene landscapes of Tuscany. Visit the house of Nicolo Machiavelli with a special opening of his private office. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a lunchtime concert and wine tasting. Continue to Rome, where you'll have a private after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, marveling at its illuminated Byzantine mosaics.
Day 12 – Day 12: Explore Rome
- Rome
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- St. Clement Basilica
- Capitoline Museums
- Palatine Hill
- Colosseum
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With a Local Expert, visit the Vatican Museums with special priority entry. Admire Michelangelo's masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Cross the Tiber to stand outside the iconic Colosseum, imagining the days of gladiators. The afternoon is yours to explore Rome at your own pace.
Day 13 – Day 13: Rome to Florence
- Orvieto
- Rome
- Florence
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- Rafting Umbria
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Meet Chef Lorenzo at his family farm in Umbria for an engaging pasta demonstration and a delightful lunch with Orvieto Classico wine. Continue your journey to Florence, where you'll settle into your hotel for the night.
Day 14 – Day 14: Explore Florence
- Pisa
- Florence
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- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- piazza della Signoria
- Pieve di Santa Maria
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Join a Local Expert to admire the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower, and baptistery in Florence. Visit the open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces in Piazza della Signoria. Explore the area around Santa Croce Basilica, known for luxury goods. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore or visit Pisa to see the Leaning Tower.
Day 15 – Day 15: Florence to Lucerne
- Lucerne
- Lugano
- Florence
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- Lake Brienz
- Chapel Bridge
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Gotthard Pass
- Fraumünster Church
- Lake View
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Travel north through the Italian Lake District via Lake Lugano. Continue into the Swiss Alps, passing through the Saint Gotthard Tunnel. Arrive in Lucerne to see the Lion Monument, Chapel Bridge, and the baroque Jesuit Church. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this picturesque town.
Day 16 – Day 16: Explore Lucerne
- Lucerne
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- Stanserhorn
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Experience a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on Mount Stanserhorn, ascending via an open-top cable car. Enjoy breathtaking views and learn about local wildlife from a Swiss ranger. Spend the rest of the day shopping for Swiss chocolate or take a horse-drawn carriage ride in the countryside. In the evening, choose from a selection of fine restaurants for your Dine-Around Evening.
Day 17 – Day 17: Lucerne to Paris
- Paris
- Lucerne
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- Tour de l'Orle d'Or
- place de la Concorde
- Champ de Mars
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Les Invalides
- Alsace Adventure Park
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Journey through the picturesque French countryside of Alsace and Burgundy, renowned for their vineyards. Arrive in Paris, the City of Light, and marvel at the Eiffel Tower, the Seine's romantic bridges, and the Arc de Triomphe. With the evening free, explore the vibrant atmosphere of Paris or attend a world-famous cabaret show.
Day 18 – Day 18: Explore Paris
- Paris
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- Musée de Montmartre
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Choose to explore the charming Montorgueil district or join a local food lover to discover hidden gems and sample local delicacies. In the evening, savor refined French cuisine at the iconic La Coupole restaurant, frequented by the legendary Josephine Baker.
Day 19 – Day 19: Departure from Paris
- Paris - Departure day
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Bid farewell to your fellow travelers as your incredible journey comes to an end. Transfers to Charles de Gaulle Airport are provided for your departure.
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