Mediterranean Journey (Classic, Start London, 16 Days)

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Description

Summary

Starts
London
Duration
16 days
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum age
5 years

Description

Embark on a captivating 16-day journey through the heart of Europe, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. This multi-day tour takes you from the bustling streets of London to the romantic allure of Paris, the scenic beauty of the Loire Valley, and the vibrant cities of Spain. Discover the architectural wonders of Bordeaux, the culinary delights of San Sebastián, and the majestic charm of Madrid and Barcelona. Traverse the picturesque French Riviera, explore the grandeur of Monaco, and marvel at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Immerse yourself in the artistic treasures of Florence, the timeless beauty of Rome, and the spiritual heart of the Vatican. With expert guides, luxurious accommodations, and unforgettable experiences, this tour promises a journey of a lifetime, filled with rich history, exquisite cuisine, and the enchanting allure of the Mediterranean.

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Included

3 Dinner with Wine (DW)

15 Breakfast (B)

1 Dinner (D)

Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of the city for a delightful dinner served with wine.

Paris: Join an avid local foodie on a walk through a local food market - Bastille Marché. Visit a variety of stalls and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.

San Sebastián: Enjoy an evening of pintxos, dining with locals in this Basque tradition. Your delicious dinner includes a wide variety of finger food delicacies, each with their own regional flavour, flair and presentation.

Rome: Toast your Mediterranean journey with delicious Italian cuisine and wine.

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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.

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15 nights in twin-share rooms at hand-picked hotels

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From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.

Rome: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the medieval buildings, including Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches, scattered throughout the city.

Monaco City: Enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit and wander the old town with your Travel Director to see the Royal Palace and the yacht-filled harbour.

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Choose between two carefully selected activities

Paris: Join an avid local foodie on a walk through a local food market - Bastille Marché. Visit a variety of stalls and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.

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.

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.

Vatican: Visit the Vatican Museums, witness the genius of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and see St. Peter's Basilica.

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.

London: Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.

Chateau Chenonceau: Visit the majestic Château de Chenonceau, known as the 'Ladies' Château' it perfectly embodies the elegance of 16th century design in the Loire Valley.

Bordeaux: Your Local Expert will show you the quayside facades, Grand Theatre, Triangle d'Or and magnificent Esplanade des Quinconces.

San Sebastián: Led by your Local Expert, enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter including Plaza de la Constitucion.

Madrid: See the highlights of the city with your Local Expert. Visit the Old Town, travelling along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, past the fountain in the Plaza de Cibeles, the Cervantes Monument and Royal Palace, before crossing the Puerta del Sol.

Barcelona: With your Local Expert, drive along the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to witness some of the finest Modernist architecture as you journey through the Eixample district to see Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerising Sagrada Família.

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.

Monaco City: Explore inside Monaco Cathedral.

Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

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Map

Attractions

photo of Florence, Italy. Palazzo Vecchio (or Palazzo della Signoria ) and Loggia dei Lanzi, twilight scene in Tuscany.Palazzo Vecchio
Remparts d'Avignon
Vado de Las Carretas
photo of Side View with the Bell Tower of the Basilica of San Clemente in the Center of Rome on a Background of Partly Cloudy Sky,Rome Italy.St. Clement Basilica
Grosse ClocheThe big bell of Bordeaux
photo of Michelangelo Capitoline Steps to Piazza Campidoglio on Capitoline Hill, Rome, Italy.Capitoline Museums
Roman ruins in Rome, ItalyPalatine Hill
photo of Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes), once fortress and palace, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe, at morning, Avignon, France.Palais des Papes
photo of view of Archbasilica of St.John Lateran, San Giovanni in Laterano in Rome, the official ecclesiastical seat of the Bishop of Rome, Italy.Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Photo of Plaza de España in Seville Spain.plaza de España
photo of fairytale Chaumont-sur -Loire castle in Loire valley, France.Castle of Chaumont-sur-Loire
Photo of sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the most known building created by Antoni Gaudi.Sagrada Família
Prince's Palace of Monaco
Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence, Quartiere 1, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Tuscany, ItalyBasilica of Santa Croce in Florence
Montjuïc CastleMontjuïc Castle
photo of square of signoria in florence at sunrise, Italy.piazza della Signoria
Pieve di Santa Maria
photo of piazza navona in Rome, Italy. Rome navona square. Ancient stadium of Rome for athletic contests. Italy architecture and landmark. Piazza navona is one of the main attractions of Rome and Italy.Piazza Navona
photo of Miroir d'eau with the Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux in a beautiful summer morning, France.miroir d'eau
François Grimaldi Statue, Monaco-Ville, MonacoFrançois Grimaldi Statue
photo of the water mirror in front of the Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux in a beautiful summer morning in France.place de la Bourse
photo of Promenade du Paillon at morning in Nice, France.Promenade du Paillon
Photo of Museum of the Marine in Madrid,Spain.Naval Museum
Musée de MontmartreMusée de Montmartre

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Day 1: London to Paris

  • London
  • Paris - Arrival day
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Begin your adventure with a warm welcome from your Travel Director in London, before boarding the high-speed Eurostar to the romantic city of Paris. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon of leisure to explore the City of Light at your own pace. In the evening, gather for a delightful Welcome Dinner at a local Parisian restaurant. During your stay, marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre. Stroll along the River Seine, admire the Place de la Concorde, and drive down the Champs Elysées to the majestic Arc de Triomphe.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Day 2: Discover Paris

  • Paris
  • More
  • Musée de Montmartre
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Today, immerse yourself in the vibrant life of Paris with an Insight Choice. Opt to explore the charming Montorgueil district, a hub of community life, or join a Local Expert for a culinary journey through the city's hidden gems, sampling local delicacies. The afternoon is yours to enjoy the lively atmosphere of Paris, with countless opportunities to explore its enchanting streets and attractions.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Day 3: Paris to Bordeaux via Loire Valley

  • Amboise
  • Bordeaux
  • Paris
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  • Castle of Chaumont-sur-Loire
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Travel southward into the heart of Châteaux Country, taking a scenic drive through the Loire Valley, renowned for its stunning gardens and grand estates. Visit the elegant Chenonceau Castle, a masterpiece of French architecture spanning the River Cher. Continue your journey to Bordeaux, a bustling inland port city celebrated for its unique 18th-century character.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Day 4: Bordeaux to San Sebastián

  • Bordeaux
  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • miroir d'eau
  • place de la Bourse
  • More

Join a Local Expert for a guided tour of Bordeaux's exquisite 18th-century architecture, including the Grand Théâtre, Triangle d'Or, and Esplanade des Quinconces. Later, travel to the picturesque city of San Sebastián, where you'll dine with locals in the evening. Experience the Basque tradition of pintxos, sampling a variety of delicious snack-sized treats, and savor the local Txakoli wine.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Day 5: San Sebastián to Madrid

  • Madrid
  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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Journey through the stunning landscapes of northern Spain, passing through mountains and gorges before emerging onto the plateau of New Castile. Arrive in Madrid, Spain's elegant capital, where you can enjoy an evening drive along the grand avenues, witnessing the city's spectacular fountains illuminated in all their glory.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Day 6: Explore Madrid

  • Madrid
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  • Vado de Las Carretas
  • plaza de España
  • Naval Museum
  • More

Embark on a sightseeing tour of Madrid with a Local Expert, exploring the Old Town and the elegant Paseo de la Castellana. Pass by the iconic fountain in Plaza de Cibeles and delve into the city's historic neighborhoods. Visit the Reina Sofía Museum, where an art historian will guide you through the masterpieces, including Picasso's renowned 'Guernica.'

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Day 7

Day 7 – Day 7: Madrid to Barcelona

  • Madrid
  • Barcelona
  • More

Cross the Castilian plain, passing by Zaragoza, and continue to the vibrant port city of Barcelona. In the evening, savor the flavors of Catalan cuisine and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from Montjuic, with its twinkling lights stretching from the mountains to the sea.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Day 8: Discover Barcelona

  • Barcelona
  • More
  • Sagrada Família
  • Montjuïc Castle
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Join a Local Expert to explore the heart of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, visiting the cathedral and wandering through the narrow lanes and old squares. Travel along the famous Ramblas and Passeig de Gràcia, and marvel at Gaudí's extraordinary masterpiece, the Sagrada Família, in the Eixample district.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Day 9: Barcelona to Avignon

  • Avignon
  • Barcelona
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  • Remparts d'Avignon
  • Palais des Papes
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Travel to Avignon to witness the famous Pont d'Avignon, once spanning the Rhône River. Stroll through the medieval streets of the Old Town and stand in the shadow of the imposing Palais des Papes. Learn about olive oil production and indulge in a tasting of the freshest produce, followed by a Farm-to-Table dinner, offering a delicious insight into traditional French home-style cuisine.

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Day 10

Day 10 – Day 10: Avignon to Nice

  • Nice
  • Avignon
  • More
  • Promenade du Paillon
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Journey along the stunning French Riviera to the elegant town of Nice. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, strolling along the famous Promenade des Anglais or relaxing on the beautiful beaches. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and charm of this coastal gem.

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Day 11

Day 11 – Day 11: Nice to Pisa via Monaco

  • Monaco
  • Pisa
  • Nice
  • More
  • Prince's Palace of Monaco
  • François Grimaldi Statue
  • More

Travel to the glamorous city-state of Monaco, where you'll drive along part of the famous Grand Prix circuit. Explore the old town with your Travel Director, visiting the Royal Palace and the cathedral, home to the tombs of Prince Rainier and Princess Grace. Cross into Italy and follow the arc of the Italian Riviera to Pisa. In the Square of Miracles, marvel at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the splendid 11th-century cathedral, and the intricately decorated baptistery.

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Day 12

Day 12 – Day 12: Pisa to Florence

  • Florence
  • Pisa
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  • Palazzo Vecchio
  • Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
  • piazza della Signoria
  • Pieve di Santa Maria
  • More

Walk with your Local Expert in Florence to the marble-clad cathedral and baptistery, where Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise have been recreated. Visit Piazza della Signoria, an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces, and admire statues such as Neptune and David in front of the Palazzo Vecchio. Explore the area around Santa Croce Basilica, known for its luxury goods, with free time to shop or continue exploring.

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Day 13

Day 13 – Day 13: Florence to Rome

  • Rome
  • Florence
  • More

Relax and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the Chianti hills and Umbria as you travel to the Eternal City of Rome. Arrive in this city filled with classic antiquities, medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces, and Baroque churches. In the evening, celebrate the culmination of your Mediterranean journey with a delightful Italian dinner and wine.

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Day 14

Day 14 – Day 14: Explore the Vatican and Rome

  • Rome
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  • St. Clement Basilica
  • Capitoline Museums
  • Palatine Hill
  • Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
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A Local Expert will guide you through the grandeur of Rome, starting with the Vatican State. Visit the Vatican Museums, home to priceless treasures collected by the Popes. Admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling in the Sistine Chapel and explore St. Peter's Basilica. The afternoon is yours to shop or relax at a sidewalk cafe before an exclusive after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes.

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Day 15

Day 15 – Day 15: Leisure Day in Rome

  • Rome
  • More
  • Piazza Navona
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Enjoy a day at your own pace in Rome. Consider an optional excursion to Pompeii, or explore the boutiques along Via del Corso and Via Nazionale. As evening falls, relax with a glass of prosecco at a sidewalk cafe in Piazza Navona, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Rome's 'Living Room.'

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Day 16

Day 16 – Day 16: Departure from Rome

  • Rome - Departure day
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Bid farewell to the magnificent landscapes and cultural treasures of Italy as your unforgettable Mediterranean journey comes to an end. Depart from Rome with cherished memories and a heart full of experiences.

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