European Discovery - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Small Group
European Discovery - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Small Group
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "European Discovery" tour, starting in Amsterdam and concluding in Paris. This small group adventure takes you through nine captivating countries, including the Netherlands, Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, Italy, Vatican City, Switzerland, and France. Experience the rich history and culture of each destination with guided tours of iconic landmarks such as the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, the Wurzburg Residence in Germany, and the Vatican Museums in Rome. Delight in authentic dining experiences, from farm-to-table meals in Salzburg to a celebratory dinner in Paris. Enjoy unique activities like glassblowing in Venice and exploring the picturesque Cinque Terre. With a focus on sustainable travel, this tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, cultural immersion, and leisure, ensuring a memorable European adventure. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
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
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
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
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
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
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Local Expert Tours
Enjoy guided tours with Local Experts in various cities including Prague, Salzburg, and Rome.
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UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Wurzburg Residence and Cinque Terre.
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Cultural Experiences
Experience cultural activities like glassblowing in Venice and exploring the Jewish Quarter in Prague.
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Scenic Journeys
Travel through picturesque landscapes including the Rhine Valley, the Tauern Mountains, and the Swiss Alps.
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Iconic Landmarks
See iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Vatican Museums.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided for guided tours to ensure you don't miss any commentary.
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Baggage Handling
Baggage handling is included, with bags delivered to your hotel door.
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Complimentary Wi-Fi
Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi on the coach and in hotels where available.
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times for flights that match the itinerary start and end dates.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as river cruises and tours inside the Catacombs are not included.
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Additional Transfers
Transfers for flights outside the scheduled times or for additional nights are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort on a luxurious, air-conditioned 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom, ensuring a relaxing journey through the scenic landscapes of Europe.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Hilton in Amsterdam, Maritim in 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, with the final nights at Le Méridien Etoile in Paris. ...more ...less
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
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes several 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.
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What are some of the dining experiences offered on this tour?
The tour offers a variety of 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.
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Are there any activities that support sustainable tourism on this tour?
Yes, the tour includes activities that support sustainable tourism such as the glassblowing workshop in Venice, which supports the survival of traditional crafts, and the visit to Mount Stanserhorn, which supports conservation efforts and sustainable energy use.
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What are some of the highlights of the Prague visit on this tour?
In Prague, you can choose to explore the courtyards of the Castle and visit St. Vitus Cathedral, or stroll through the Jewish Quarter with a Local Expert to learn about the history and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Vatican City?
During the visit to Vatican City, you will have fast-track entry to the Vatican Museums to admire the Papal art collection, and you will also visit the Sistine Chapel to see Michelangelo's famous ceiling.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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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.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
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Jul 17, 2026 - Jul 31, 2026Friday - Friday
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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.
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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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Terms and Conditions
European Discovery - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Small 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 ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
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Interests:
Activities:
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