Romantic European (Small Groups, Start London, End London, 19 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through Europe's most captivating cities and landscapes. From the historic streets of London to the romantic canals of Venice, this journey promises a tapestry of cultural experiences and breathtaking vistas. Discover the architectural wonders of Vienna, the artistic treasures of Florence, and the vibrant energy of Paris. With expertly guided tours, luxurious accommodations, and delectable cuisine, each day offers a new adventure, weaving together the rich history and diverse cultures of this enchanting continent. Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime exploration that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of Europe.
Included
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.
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.
18 nights accommodation included
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.
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.
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 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.
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: London to Amsterdam
- London
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
- More
Embark on a thrilling journey from the bustling city of London as you board the high-speed Eurostar, whisking you through the iconic Channel Tunnel. Arrive in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, where a delightful evening awaits. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner with your fellow travelers, followed by a serene cruise along the picturesque canals, offering glimpses of the city's rich history and architectural marvels.
Day 2 – Day 2: Amsterdam to Würzburg
- Amsterdam
- More
- Würzburg Residence
- Marienberg Fortress
- Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes Mittelrheintal
- More
Relax as you journey through the enchanting Rhine Valley, a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. Arrive in Würzburg, where history comes alive with a visit to the majestic Marienburg Fortress. Explore the opulent Würzburg Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its 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 charming town that seems frozen in time. Continue your journey eastward, passing through Pilsen, famous for its beer, before reaching the enchanting city of Prague. In the evening, consider a leisurely river cruise through the heart of this Golden City.
Day 4 – Day 4: Discovering Prague
- Prague
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- Jerusalem Synagogue
- St. Vitus Cathedral
- Prague Castle
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Immerse yourself in the rich history of Prague with a choice of guided tours. Explore the majestic courtyards of Prague Castle and the awe-inspiring St. Vitus Cathedral, or delve into the fascinating stories of the Jewish Quarter. The afternoon is yours to explore the city's vibrant streets, perhaps indulging in some antique shopping or savoring local delicacies.
Day 5 – Day 5: Prague to Budapest
- Budapest
- Prague
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- Shoes on the Danube Bank
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Embark on a scenic journey through the lush landscapes of Bohemia, following the meandering River Danube to the captivating city of Budapest. In the evening, delight in a scenic dinner cruise, taking in the city's stunning night vistas that have earned it the nickname 'Pearl of the Danube.'
Day 6 – Day 6: Exploring Budapest
- London
- Amsterdam
- Budapest
- More
Discover the architectural wonders of Budapest as you drive along the elegant Andrássy Avenue to Heroes' Square. Stroll through the historic Old Town of Buda, taking in panoramic views from the Fisherman's Bastion. Ascend Gellért Hill for breathtaking vistas of the city, where the mighty Chain Bridge and Elizabeth Bridge span the iconic 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 prestigious Liszt Music Academy, followed by a captivating recital. Journey past the impressive Turul Monument as you make your way to the Austrian border, arriving in the imperial city of Vienna. Enjoy the scenic drive through charming countryside, setting the stage for your Viennese adventure.
Day 8 – Day 8: Vienna's Imperial Splendor
- Vienna
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- Burg Perchtoldsdorf
- Wienerwaldsee
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Burgruine Mödling
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Step into the grandeur of Vienna with an optional private tour of the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace. Capture the city's architectural masterpieces as you drive along the historic Ring Road. Join a guided walk through the Innere Stadt, Vienna's historic core, and indulge in traditional coffee and cake at a cozy café, mingling with locals.
Day 9 – Day 9: Vienna to Venice
- Venice
- Vienna
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- Miniera di Raibl
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Travel through the serene landscapes of Styria's forested mountains and the picturesque Carinthian Lake District. Cross into Italy near Tarvisio and descend into the Veneto Plain, arriving in the enchanting city of Venice. Enjoy a private boat transfer to your hotel, followed by a delightful evening in Piazza San Marco, serenaded by talented musicians.
Day 10 – Day 10: Embracing Venice
- Venice
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- Doge's Palace
- Piazza San Marco
- Bridge of Sighs
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Awaken to the romance of Venice as you explore the iconic St. Mark's Square, with its towering Campanile and the majestic Doge's Palace. Witness the artistry of glassblowers at a traditional arts center, and enjoy leisure time to wander the charming arcades or embark on a culinary adventure to the island of Burano.
Day 11 – Day 11: Venice to Rome
- Rome
- Venice
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- Giotto's Bell Tower
- Frontone Gardens
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Journey through the tranquil Apennine Mountains to the heart of Tuscany. Visit the historic home of Nicolo Machiavelli, where a special opening of his private office awaits. Enjoy a delightful lunch concert and wine tasting before continuing to Rome. In the evening, experience a private after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, illuminated for your enjoyment.
Day 12 – Day 12: Rome's Timeless Treasures
- Rome
- More
- St. Clement Basilica
- Capitoline Museums
- Palatine Hill
- Colosseum
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Delve into the artistic wonders of the Vatican Museums with priority entry, avoiding the crowds. Marvel at Michelangelo's masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Cross the Tiber to stand before the Colosseum, where echoes of ancient gladiators linger. The afternoon is yours to explore Rome's vibrant streets.
Day 13 – Day 13: Rome to Florence
- Orvieto
- Florence
- Rome
- More
- Orvieto subterranea
- Rafting Umbria
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Meet Chef Lorenzo at his family farm in Umbria for an engaging pasta demonstration and a delectable lunch paired with Orvieto Classico wine. Continue your journey to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, where art and history await your exploration.
Day 14 – Day 14: Florence's Renaissance Wonders
- 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 explore Florence's iconic landmarks, including the stunning Florence Cathedral and the open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces in Piazza della Signoria. Visit the area around Santa Croce Basilica, renowned for its luxury goods. The afternoon is yours to explore, perhaps venturing to Pisa to see the Leaning Tower.
Day 15 – Day 15: Florence to Lucerne
- Lucerne
- Florence
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- Chapel Bridge
- Bourbaki Panorama Lucerne
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Gotthard Pass
- Lake View
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Travel north through the picturesque Italian Lake District, crossing into Switzerland via the Saint Gotthard Tunnel. Arrive in Lucerne, where you'll discover the poignant Lion Monument and stroll across the charming Chapel Bridge. Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Lucerne, nestled amidst the majestic Swiss Alps.
Day 16 – Day 16: Lucerne's Alpine Adventure
- Lucerne
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- Stanserhorn
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Ascend Mount Stanserhorn on an eco-friendly open-top cable car, powered by solar panels. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and enjoy panoramic views stretching to Alsace and the Black Forest. With the day free, explore Lucerne's charming Old Town or venture into the countryside for a horse-drawn carriage ride.
Day 17 – Day 17: Lucerne to Paris
- Paris
- Lucerne
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- place de la Concorde
- Champ de Mars
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Alsatian Museum
- Les Invalides
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Journey through the picturesque French countryside of Alsace and Burgundy, renowned for their vineyards. Arrive in the vibrant City of Light, Paris, where you'll marvel at the iconic Eiffel Tower and explore the romantic banks of the Seine. Discover the grandeur of the Place de la Concorde and the Champs Élysées, leading to the majestic Arc de Triomphe.
Day 18 – Day 18: Parisian Delights
- Paris
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- Musée de Montmartre
- Le Cachot
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Explore the charming Montorgueil district, immersing yourself in the vibrant community life. Alternatively, join a local food lover to discover hidden culinary gems and sample delectable treats. In the evening, savor refined French cuisine at the iconic La Coupole, a favorite haunt of the legendary Josephine Baker.
Day 19 – Day 19: Farewell to Paris
- London
- Paris - Departure day
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Bid adieu to your fellow travelers as your unforgettable journey comes to a close. Board the high-speed Eurostar for a swift return to London, where your adventure concludes at the Insight London hotel. Reflect on the memories made and the friendships forged during this extraordinary multi-day tour.
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