European Dream - End Paris, Classic Group

European Dream - End Paris, Classic Group

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11 Days From

$5140

European Dream - End Paris, Classic Group

11 Days Starting in Venice, Italy and ending in Paris, France

Visiting: Venice, Rome, Florence, Lucerne, Paris

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

N912MZN20

Specialist Group:

Family/Kids

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $5140

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the "European Dream - End Paris, Classic Group" tour, a captivating journey through Italy, Switzerland, and France. Begin in Venice, where you'll cruise to St. Mark's Square and witness the art of glassblowing. In Rome, explore the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum, and enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes. Discover the Renaissance treasures of Florence and savor Tuscan wines at Machiavelli's home. Ascend Mount Stanserhorn in Switzerland for breathtaking views, and explore Lucerne's charming streets. Conclude in Paris, experiencing its iconic landmarks and indulging in French cuisine. With authentic dining experiences, expert-guided tours, and sustainable travel initiatives, this tour offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and culinary delights.

Highlights

  • Paris: Explore the charming streets and heritage landmarks of a car-free, pedestrianized neighborhood, including the Napoleonic "Egyptian" district.

  • Paris: Join a local food lover to sample treats from patisseries, boulangeries, and chocolatiers.

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

  • Rome: Discover the history and legends of the iconic Colosseum.

  • Florence: View the multi-colored marble cathedral and visit Signoria Square.

  • Lucerne: See the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church, and Chapel Bridge.

  • Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a solar-powered cable car for spectacular views.

Places You'll See

The Colosseum, Rome

The Eiffel Tower

The Colosseum, Rome

The Eiffel Tower

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Venice

Location: Venice

Accommodation: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice.

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to the Queen of the Adriatic, known for its unique waterscapes and rich cultural heritage. Transfers depart from Venice Airport and journey to the hotel by water taxi. What better way to start your dream holiday than in true Venetian style? Join your Travel Director for a dinner at a local restaurant. Savor a cocktail at twilight whilst being serenaded by an ensemble of talented musicians, and admire the tranquillity of St. Mark's Square long after the day-trippers have gone to their mainland hotels. Return to your canal-side hotel in the quiet, peaceful authentic neighborhood.

Day 2: The Magic Of 'La Serenissima' Relaxed Start

Location: Venice

Accommodation: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice.

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, prepare to embrace this most romantic city. Visit St. Mark's Square, dominated by its magnificent basilica and overlooked by the great Clock Tower. Also in the square stands the immense Campanile and Doge's Palace which is 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 free. 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 3: Villa Machiavelli And Rome

Location: Rome

Accommodation: Room 007 Select, Rome.

Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a center of celebration between December 24, 2024, and December 31, 2025. As festivities unfold, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure you make the most of your time as you visit the Eternal City. Head into the Apennine Mountains and the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany. Meet your local host for a guided tour through the house of the Italian Renaissance diplomat and writer, Nicolo Machiavelli, with an included special opening of his private office where he wrote 'The Prince'. Visit the Italian garden with views of  Florence and the historic cellar, which has a secret underground tunnel connecting the cellars to the oldest restaurant in Italy. Savor a tasting of wines made from the vineyards surrounding the home, accompanied by delicious samples of local Tuscan fare. Your journey continues as you follow the course of the Tiber to the Eternal City of Rome. Enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes. Gaze in awe at the well preserved Byzantine mosaics, illuminated for this evening's experience, and see the first sculpture by Bernini.

Day 4: Papal And Imperial Rome

Location: Rome

Accommodation: Room 007 Select, Rome.

Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

With your Local Expert, visit the Vatican Museums. Insight provides special fast-track entry to avoid the crowds and admire the Papal art collection. Inside the Sistine Chapel, admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling. Continue inside the cavernous St. Peter's Basilica, mother church of the Catholic faith, to see another Michelangelo masterpiece, the Pietà, as well as the splendid dome. Leave Vatican City to cross the Tiber and stand outside the Colosseum, imagining yourself back in the days of the gladiators. The afternoon is at leisure.

Day 5: Umbria And Onto Florence Relaxed Start

Location: Florence

Accommodation: Hotel Adler Cavalieri, Florence.

Accommodation Name: Villa Neroli, Florence

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Meet chef Lorenzo at his family farm in Umbria. Explore the art of Italian cooking during an entertaining pasta demonstration and delicious lunch accompanied by Orvieto Classico wine. Continue on to your hotel in Florence.

Day 6: Renaissance Florence

Location: Florence

Accommodation: Hotel Adler Cavalieri, Florence.

Accommodation Name: Villa Neroli, Florence

Meals Included: Breakfast

Begin the morning by joining a Local Expert in Florence to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. You also visit the open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces in Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the Renaissance capital. Perhaps take the opportunity to visit Pisa and see the famous Leaning Tower?

Day 7: Across The Alps To Lucerne

Gilda Giorgi
meeta

Location: Lucerne

Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.

Accommodation Name: Astoria Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast

Head north towards 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, before traveling alongside towering mountains and past rushing torrents, down to scenic Lake Lucerne. Upon return in 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.

Day 8: Lucerne And Mt. Stanserhorn

Gilda Giorgi
meeta

Location: Lucerne

Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.

Accommodation Name: Astoria Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-top cable car powered by solar panels take you up the summit. Breathe 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. With the day free, there is plenty of time for shopping for delectable chocolate in the traffic-free Old Town. Perhaps venture into the countryside for a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride and meet the local farmers? At night, you are offered a fine selection of restaurants to choose from for your Dine-Around Evening.

Day 9: Sights And Delights Of Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey through the rural French countryside 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 10: The Flavors Of Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Your exploration of Paris today starts with Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join an local food lover 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 dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole, frequently visited by the French entertainer Josephine Baker.

Day 11: Au Revoir Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: on

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bid farewell to your traveling companions as your journey comes to an end. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport.

What's Included

  • Personal radio headsets

    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

    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.

  • Baggage handling

    We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.

  • Insight Flourish

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

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

    Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

  • Transfers

    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.

What's Not Included

  • International Airfare

    Flights to and from the start and end points of the tour are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is highly recommended but not included.

    Please arrange for coverage before your trip.

  • Optional Experiences

    Some experiences and excursions outside of the scheduled itinerary may incur additional costs.

  • Personal Expenses

    Expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, additional drinks and meals outside of what is included, and shopping are not covered.

  • Visa Fees

    Any required visas or entry fees for specific countries are not included and are the responsibility of the traveler.

  • Airport Transfers Outside Scheduled Times

    If your flights are outside the itinerary start and end dates, transfers are not included but may be purchased separately.

Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 10 Breakfast (B)
  • 2 Lunch with Wine (LW)

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

  • 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.

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.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach featuring double the standard legroom and onboard washroom, ensuring comfort and safety with physical distancing measures and hand sanitizer available throughout the journey.

Accommodation

Stay in charming accommodations such as the Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio in Venice, Room 007 Select in Rome, Villa Neroli in Florence, Astoria in Lucerne, and Le Méridien Etoile in Paris, offering comfort and convenience throughout your European journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as witnessing the ancient skill of glassblowing in Venice, exploring the art of Italian cooking with Chef Lorenzo in Umbria, and enjoying a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome. Additionally, you can journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a solar-powered cable car and enjoy a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger.

  • Are there any special dining experiences during the tour?

    Yes, the tour offers several special dining experiences. In Venice, you will have a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. In Tuscany, you can enjoy a wine tasting and sample Tuscan snacks in the underground cellar of Machiavelli's home. In Paris, you will have dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole.

  • What are some of the highlights of the Paris portion of the tour?

    In Paris, you will explore iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe. You can also choose to explore the Montorgueil district or join a local food lover to sample local treats. The tour also includes a dinner at La Coupole.

  • What activities are available in Venice during the tour?

    In Venice, you will cruise to St. Mark's Square to see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs, and St. Mark's Basilica. You will also witness a glassblowing demonstration and have free time to explore or take a cruise to the island of Burano.

  • How does the tour support sustainable practices?

    The tour supports sustainable practices by including experiences such as the solar-powered cable car ride to Mount Stanserhorn, which supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Additionally, the glassblowing workshop in Venice helps preserve traditional crafts.

  • 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

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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.!

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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

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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.

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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.

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

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    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.

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