European Discovery - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group

European Discovery - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group

15 Days
From

$8020

European Discovery - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group

15 Days Starting in Amsterdam, Netherlands and ending in Paris, France

Visiting: Amsterdam, Würzburg, Prague, Salzburg, Venice, Rome, Vatican City, Cinque Terre, Lucerne, Paris

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

E812AN126

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $8020

NB: Prices correct on 25-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through Europe's most iconic destinations with the "European Discovery" tour, starting in Amsterdam and concluding in Paris. This classic group tour takes you through nine countries, offering a blend of cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the artistic treasures of Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, wander through the medieval streets of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and savor authentic Austrian cuisine in Salzburg. Discover the romantic allure of Venice, the historical grandeur of Rome, and the picturesque beauty of the Cinque Terre. In Paris, indulge in the city's culinary delights and explore its vibrant neighborhoods. With expert local guides, immersive experiences, and sustainable travel initiatives, this tour promises an unforgettable European adventure.

Highlights

  • Prague: Explore the Jewish Quarter and taste traditional Czech pastry, Trdelník.

  • Amsterdam: Visit the Rijksmuseum with a local art historian to see works by Van Gogh, Vermeer, and Rembrandt.

  • Wurzburg: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wurzburg Residence.

  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Discover the best-preserved medieval town in Germany.

  • Salzburg: Visit the Mirabell Palace gardens and Mozart's birthplace.

  • Venice: Cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace and Bridge of Sighs.

  • Rome: Experience the city's vibrant backstreets with a local guide.

  • Paris: Explore iconic sights like Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the Arc de Triomphe.

Places You'll See

The Eiffel Tower

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Amsterdam

Location: Amsterdam

Accommodation Name: Hilton, Amsterdam

Meals Included: Breakfast

If you choose, you could start the morning by visiting the Van Loon Museum. Later, visit the newly refurbished Rijksmuseum with a Local Expert, Amsterdam's famed treasure trove of Dutch art, housing Rembrandt's ‘Night Watch.'

Day 2: Legends Along The Rhine

Location: Würzburg

Accommodation Name: Maritim, Würzburg

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cross into Germany, through the Rhine Valley and into Würzburg, where there is time to stroll through the heart of the Old Town and down to the Alte Mainbrücke, the 16th century bridge over the River Main, adorned with sandstone statues. With a Local Expert, visit the imposing Würzburg Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at intricate decorations and lavish staterooms boasting with French, Austrian and Venetian influences.

Day 3: Rothenburg And Golden Prague Relaxed Start

Mr Kane!
Panagiotis Myrelis
Steffen Breitung

Location: Prague

Accommodation Name: NH Collection Prague City.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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, perhaps take a river cruise through the heart of the city?

Day 4: Prague, City Of A Hundred Spires

Mr Kane!
Panagiotis Myrelis
Steffen Breitung

Location: Prague

Accommodation Name: NH Collection Prague City.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore Prague with Insight Choice. Choose to walk the courtyards of the Castle and visit the imposing St. Vitus Cathedral. Alternatively, join your Local Expert through the Jewish Quarter and hear about the history, traditions and legends of the Jewish people and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry. In the afternoon, see the mighty Marienburg Fortress - the immense baroque palace of the Prince Bishops and one of the most important landmarks in Germany. Then, the city is all yours to explore. In the evening, why not enjoy an Optional Experience in the Czech countryside?

Day 5: Salzburg, City Of Mozart Relaxed Start

Location: Salzburg

Accommodation Name: Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Center

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey through the Czech Republic and continue south over the Austrian border and onto Salzburg, the city of Mozart and the ‘Sound of Music.’ A Local Expert shows you the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace which includes the fountains and statues where the 'Do, Re, Mi' scene was filmed. Later see Residence Square and its fountain, where Maria sings 'I Have Confidence'. Witness the imposing fortress, immense cathedral and Mozart’s birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse. In the evening, experience authentic Farm-to-Table dining at a restaurant in Salzburg and enjoy the flavors of homemade dishes.

Day 6: The Tauern Mountains To Venice Relaxed Start

Location: Venice

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Salzburg to shop for local marzipan specialties. Perhaps take the opportunity to marvel at impressive views atop Kehlsteinhaus - the Eagle’s Nest - a unique example of historic architecture in a stunning alpine setting? Later, stunning scenery surrounds you as you travel down the Tauern Mountains to cross the Italian border. Continue to the romantic city of Venice, Queen of the Adriatic, where your hotel is perfectly located in one of the quietest peaceful and authentic Venetian districts.

Day 7: The Magic Of 'La Serenissima' Relaxed Start

Location: Venice

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, prepare to embrace this most romantic city. See the immense Campanile and Doge's Palace on St. Mark's Square, connected to the ancient prisons by the Bridge of Sighs. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you witness the skill of glassblowers on a visit to a traditional arts center. The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps shop in the small arcades or why not cruise the Venetian lagoon to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine?

Day 8: Onto The Eternal City Of Rome

Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: Bettoja Massimo D'Azeglio, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

Head into the Apennine Mountains and the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria. Your journey continues as you follow the course of the Tiber to your hotel in the Eternal City of Rome. This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 9: Rome With The Locals Relaxed Start

Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: Bettoja Massimo D'Azeglio, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rome is about art, antiquity, piazzas and palaces, and your morning walking tour with a Local Expert includes this in abundance. Toss a coin into the spectacular Trevi Fountain and see the best-preserved monument from the Roman period - the Pantheon, before enjoying free time to do as the Romans do, in Piazza Navona. Perhaps join a tour inside the Catacombs with our local expert.

Day 10: The Vatican And Florence

Location: Vatican City

Accommodation Name: Villa Neroli, Florence

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start the day with your Local Expert they introduce you to the grandeur of the city, starting with the Vatican State, the richest community in the world. Visit the Vatican Museums, full of priceless treasures collected by the Popes. Enjoy fast-track entry to avoid the crowds and admire the Papal art collection. Once inside the Sistine Chapel, admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling. Your travels continue through peaceful Umbria and Tuscany, to arrive at the city of Florence. A Local Expert will accompany you to the Duomo, where the Gates of Paradise adorn the baptistery. Continue to Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city. Lined with fountains and statues, it acts as an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Take time to gaze at Neptune and David as you explore the historic city center.

Day 11: The Cinque Terre

Location: Cinque Terre

Accommodation Name: B and B Park Hotel Suiss, Santa Margherita Ligure

Meals Included: Breakfast

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 by boat (weather permitting). Spend time exploring the old medieval quarter or the popular sandy beach. Continue on to your resort in Santa Margherita Ligure. Savor authentic Italian cuisine with a delicious dinner.

Day 12: Across The Alps To Lucerne

Gilda Giorgi
meeta

Location: Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Astoria Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast

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. Travel alongside towering mountains and past rushing torrents, down to scenic Lake Lucerne, where you are leisure for the rest of the afternoon.

Day 13: Lucerne’S Lakes And Mountains

Gilda Giorgi
meeta

Location: Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Astoria Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-top cable car powered by solar panels take you up the summit. Take in the pristine mountain air and, on a clear day, witness views as far as Alsace and the Black Forest in Germany. 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. Upon return to Lucerne, see the town's proud Lion Monument, carved into a limestone cliff and dedicated to the heroic Swiss Guards who died defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Then, take some time to 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: Sights And Delights Of Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey through the rural French country side of Burgundy, famous for its vineyards and wines, to arrive in the vibrant City of Light. 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, see the obelisk in the center of the Place de la Concorde and drive along the Champs Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe. With the evening free, there are countless opportunities to enjoy the lively atmosphere of this glittering city. Why not visit one of the world-famous cabaret shows?

Day 15: The Food And Flavors Of Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your exploration of Paris today starts with an Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join an avid foodie as you head into areas where Parisians go about their daily lives 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.

What's Included

  • Choice Highlights

    Choose between two carefully selected activities in Prague and Paris.

  • Top Rated Highlights

    Explore iconic landmarks such as the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, Wurzburg Residence, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Mirabell Palace in Salzburg, St. Mark's Square in Venice, and more.

  • Make Travel Matter

    Participate in experiences that support sustainable development goals, such as glassblowing in Venice and a conservation talk on Mount Stanserhorn.

  • Insight Choice

    Enjoy guided tours with local experts in Prague and Paris, exploring historical and cultural landmarks.

  • Additional Included Highlights

    Personal radio headsets, hotel and restaurant tips, taxes, porterage charges, and complimentary Wi-Fi are included.

  • Insight Experiences

    Exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome and a visit to the Vatican Museums.

  • Well-being

    Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned coach, equipped with hand sanitizer and physical distancing measures.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Experiences

    Optional experiences such as a river cruise in Prague and a visit to the Eagle’s Nest in Salzburg are not included.

  • Transfers Outside Scheduled Times

    Transfers are only available at scheduled times.

    If your flights are outside these times, you may need to purchase transfers or make your own arrangements.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style and comfort aboard a luxurious, air-conditioned coach with double the standard legroom, ensuring a relaxing journey through the scenic landscapes of Europe, from Amsterdam to Paris.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at the Hilton Amsterdam, Maritim Wurzburg, NH Collection Prague City, Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Center, Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio in Venice, Bettoja Massimo D'Azeglio in Rome, Villa Neroli in Florence, B and B Park Hotel Suiss in Santa Margherita Ligure, and Astoria Lucerne, culminating at Le Méridien Etoile in Paris.

Dining Summary

  • 15 Breakfast (B)
  • 6 Dinner with Wine (DW)

Additional Included Highlights

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

Insight Experiences

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

Travel Director

  • "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."

Well-being

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

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes unique experiences such as witnessing the ancient skill of glassblowing in Venice, exploring Mount Stanserhorn on a solar-powered open-top cable car, and enjoying exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome during an after-hours visit.

  • Are there any special dining experiences during the tour?

    Yes, the tour offers several special dining experiences, including authentic Farm-to-Table dining in Salzburg, a Dine-Around Evening in Lucerne where you can choose from a selection of restaurants, and a Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole in Paris.

  • What are some of the highlights of the Prague visit?

    In Prague, you can choose to walk the courtyards of the Castle and visit St. Vitus Cathedral or explore the Jewish Quarter with a Local Expert, learning about the history and tasting Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry. The city is also yours to explore further, with options like a river cruise or walking the Royal Route.

  • What activities are available in Paris during the tour?

    In Paris, you can explore the Montorgueil district to experience community life or join a local food lover to sample local treats and delicacies. The tour also includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe.

  • How does the tour support sustainable tourism?

    The tour supports sustainable tourism through experiences like the glassblowing workshop in Venice, which helps preserve traditional crafts, and the visit to Mount Stanserhorn, which uses solar-powered cable cars and includes conservation talks by a Swiss ranger.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

Reviews of this operator

Peggy Lindenborn  

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily

02-Nov-2021

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily is a delightful trip and our travel guides and driver, Enzo, Chris and Greg were amazing and made the trip very memorable. We saw so many places and had great experiences along the way! Thanks to them for such a wonderful vacation.!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Spain & Portugal

11-Jan-2023

Great itinerary, good pace, tour director was friendly and very knowledgeable and organised. Bus was very spacious and driver was great. Yes would recommend insight to friends and families

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Jacqueline Thornberry  

Scenic Iceland and the Northern Lights

31-Oct-2021

The number is our group was small which meant we got to know each other. Our tour guide, Laura Spiers, was excellent as was our driver. The food was good, and of course everything we saw in Iceland was beautiful and educational.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Kathryn Ronca  

Enchanting Canyonlands

08-Nov-2021

The trip was fantastic. Everything was well planned and exceeded my expectations. All insight personal were courteous helpful and professional Ann Manual and Kevin were a topnotch team There was attention to every detail and at all times felt safe and always a personal touch to the trip. The motor coach was clean and roomy and there was multiple wipe downs during the day All hotels were top notch and all staff at the hotels and restaurants were helpful and courteous I would recommend this trip as it gave you a fantastic view of the natural wonders of the the West.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Patrick Ong  

Italian Intermezzo

12-Jan-2023

This trip is absolutely amazing! Worth every Penny! Our Tour guide did not Disappoint.

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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