European Grandeur - Start Paris, End Amsterdam, Classic Group
European Grandeur - Start Paris, End Amsterdam, Classic Group
European Grandeur - Start Paris, End Amsterdam, Classic Group
26 Days Starting in Paris, France and ending in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Visiting: Paris, Bordeaux, Madrid, Barcelona, Avignon, Nice, Monaco, Florence, Rome, Venice, Ljubljana, Vienna, Salzburg, Lucerne, Königswinter, Amsterdam
Tour operator:
Tour code:
E915MN126
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "European Grandeur - Start Paris, End Amsterdam, Classic Group" tour and experience the best of Europe in style. Begin your journey in the romantic city of Paris, exploring iconic landmarks and indulging in local delicacies. Travel through the picturesque Loire Valley to Bordeaux, and savor the Basque tradition of pintxos in San Sebastián. Discover the vibrant cultures of Madrid and Barcelona, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the French Riviera in Nice. Marvel at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Renaissance splendor of Florence, and the ancient wonders of Rome. Cruise the canals of Venice, explore the charming streets of Ljubljana, and immerse yourself in the imperial history of Vienna. Conclude your adventure with breathtaking views from Mount Stanserhorn and a canal cruise in Amsterdam. This tour offers a perfect blend of guided experiences, local insights, and leisure time, ensuring an unforgettable European adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Paris, enjoy time at leisure to settle into your hotel. During your time here you will see the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Place de la Concorde, the Champs Elysées and Arc de Triomphe. Later, join your Travel Director at a local brasserie in the heart of Paris for a fabulous dinner.
Day 2: Paris, The City Of Light
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your exploration of Paris today begins with an Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join a Local Expert, 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. With the afternoon free, there are countless opportunities to enjoy the lively atmosphere of this glittering city.
Day 3: Onto Bordeaux
Location: Bordeaux
Accommodation Name: Novotel Gare St Jean, Bordeaux
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head southwards towards Châteaux Country. Take a scenic drive along the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region is known as the Jardins de France for the beautifully maintained gardens created on vast estates as outdoor living areas. Visit the majestic Chenonceau Castle, an elegant French château spanning the River Cher. Continue on to the bustling in-land port of Bordeaux with its unique 18th century character.
Day 4: Bordeaux And San Sebastián
Location: Bordeaux
Accommodation Name: Barceló Costa Vasca, San Sebastián
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Join a Local Expert for a guided tour of France's best 18th century architecture. The facades of the quaysides, the Grand Théâtre, Triangle d'Or and magnificent Esplanade des Quinconces all contributed to Bordeaux earning inclusion on UNESCO's World Heritage list. Next, continue to picturesque San Sebastián where you will have the chance to dine with the locals in the evening. In small groups, wander through the Old Town for a progressive dinner, as you enjoy the gastronomic Basque tradition of pintxos. Similar to tapas, enjoy a variety of snack-sized treats to make your meal and be sure to try some of the local Txakoli wine.
Day 5: On To Madrid Relaxed Start
Location: Madrid
Accommodation Name: Riu Plaza España, Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue through the mountains and gorges of the north and emerge from the tunnel in the Sierra de Guadarrama onto the plateau of New Castile and Spain's elegant capital of Madrid. In the evening, why not see the city lit up it all its glory, with a drive along the grand avenues and past the spectacular fountains?
Day 6: Madrid Relaxed Start
Location: Madrid
Accommodation Name: Riu Plaza España, Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy sightseeing with your Local Expert, as they guide you through the most historic neighborhoods in the Spanish capital. Your drive continues through the Old Quarter to discover the origins of the city. Visit the Reina Sofia Museum with an art historian to see Picasso's Guernica.
Day 7: Madrid And Beautiful Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the Castilian plain, past Zaragoza, and continue to the vibrant port of Barcelona. In the evening, why not try delicious local Catalan cuisine and as night descends, view the city from the heights of Montjuic, with lights sparkling below from the mountains to sea.
Day 8: Barcelona, City Of Gaudi Relaxed Start
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join your Local Expert for a view of the Gothic Quarter and the cathedral. Travel by the Ramblas and along the Passeig de Gràcia, adorned with some of the most flamboyant Modernist buildings. Continue through the Eixample district to see Gaudi’s extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerizing Sagrada Família.
Day 9: Avignon, The City Of Popes
Location: Avignon
Accommodation Name: Novotel Center, Avignon
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey to Avignon to see the famous Pont d'Avignon, once spanning the Rhône and immortalized in songs. Walk within the medieval narrow streets of the Old Town to stand in the shadow of the old Palais des Papes, resembling a fortress. Learn about olive oil and enjoy a tasting of the freshest produce. After, indulge in a Farm-to-Table dinner, a delicious insight into traditional French home-style cuisine.
Day 10: On The Shores Of Nice
Location: Nice
Accommodation Name: Apollinaire, Nice, Radisson Blu, Nice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey along the French Riviera to the elegant town of Nice, where the rest of the day is at your leisure to stroll along the fabled Promenade des Anglais or relax on the beach.
Day 11: Monaco And Pisa
Location: Monaco
Accommodation Name: Villa Neroli, Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to Monaco where you are driven along part of the Grand Prix circuit, before walking with your Travel Director through the old town. See the Royal Palace where the Grimaldi family live, the yacht-filled harbor and visit the cathedral, housing the tombs of the late Prince Rainier and Princess Grace. Cross into Italy and follow the arc of the Italian Riviera before arriving in Pisa. In the Square of Miracles, stop to see the incredible Leaning Tower of Pisa with a Local Expert, from which Galileo is said to have conducted experiments on velocity and gravity. Also see the splendid 11th century cathedral and baptistery, decorated with mosaics and designs in solid marble.
Day 12: Renaissance Florence Relaxed Start
Location: Florence
Accommodation Name: Villa Neroli, Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk with your Local Expert to the marble-clad cathedral and baptistery, where Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise have been recreated in all their glory. The next stop is Piazza della Signoria, still the political heart of Florence and an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Spend time gazing at statues such as Neptune and David along the front of the Palazzo Vecchio. The area around Santa Croce Basilica is famous for the quality of its luxury goods of gold and leather and there's free time to shop or continue exploring.
Day 13: The Eternal City Of Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Relax and enjoy the grand landscapes of the Chianti hills and Umbria, before passing the Apennine Mountains to arrive at the Eternal City, filled with classic antiquities, medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches. In the evening, enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant.
Day 14: Exploring Papal Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
A Local Expert introduces 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. Once inside the Sistine Chapel, admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling. Next door, visit St. Peter’s Basilica to admire Michelangelo's emotive 'Pieta' and see Bernini's intricately carved Papal Altar. The afternoon is yours to shop in the trendy boutiques or relax at a sidewalk cafe before our exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit.
Day 15: Rome At Leisure Relaxed Start
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy Rome at your own pace today. Perhaps take an optional experience to the ill-fated town of Pompeii, frozen in time when it was engulfed by an eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. Alternatively, spend some time in the boutiques of the Via del Corso, the Via Nazionale or the elegant designer stores near the Spanish Steps.
Day 16: Autostrada Del Sole To Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey through peaceful Tuscan landscapes, to descend past Bologna into the fertile Valley of the River Po. Arrive at the glorious city of Venice by boat and savor a cocktail at sunset whilst you are serenaded by an ensemble of talented musicians, before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 17: The Magic Of La Serenissima
Location: Venice
Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up ready to embrace this romantic city. Admire the Doge’s Palace and its adjoining Bridge of Sighs. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you witness the skill of glassblowers on a visit to a traditional arts center, before taking a private cruise to St. Mark's Square where St. Mark’s Basilica exudes the city’s former wealth and power.
Day 18: Venice To Elegant Ljubljana Relaxed Start
Location: Ljubljana
Accommodation Name: Lev Ljubljana
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart Venice by water taxi and continue your journey to the Slovenian capital of Ljubljana. A Local Expert shows you Prešeren square with the Triple bridge, baroque Franciscan Church and and the lively banks of Ljubljanica river. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to the tranquil shores of Lake Bled? Ride in a traditional wooden 'pletna' across the turquoise glacial waters towards the tiny island that rises in the middle.
Day 19: Ljubljana To Vienna
Location: Vienna
Accommodation Name: Hilton Vienna Park, Hilton Vienna Danube Waterfront
Meals Included: Breakfast
Follow the Drava River and cross over the Slovenian border to reach the 700-year-old university town of Maribor. Continue past Graz through Styria's forested mountains and on to Vienna.
Day 20: Vienna And The Habsburgs Relaxed Start
Location: Vienna
Accommodation Name: Hilton Vienna Park, Hilton Vienna Danube Waterfront
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, there is the option to join a private tour of Maria Theresa's Schönbrunn Palace and formal gardens. Later, get your camera ready for a drive around the famous Ring Road. This grand boulevard, built alongside the lines of the old city walls, showcases many of the capital’s architectural masterpieces, including the Opera House, magnificent Hofburg Imperial Residence and Parliament. Later, join your Local Expert for a walk through Innere Stadt, the first district and historic core of Vienna. Visit a traditional Viennese café to enjoy local specialties of coffee and Sachertorte or visit Capuchins' Crypt, the burial place of the Habsburg family in Vienna.
Day 21: Salzburg And Onto Innsbruck
Location: Salzburg
Accommodation Name: AC, Innsbruck
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pass the impressive Benedictine monastery of Melk before reaching the enchanting city of Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart and the iconic musical 'The Sound of Music'. A Local Expert will show you the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace, including the fountains and statues where the 'Do, Re, Mi' scene was filmed. Cross Residence Square with its fountain, where Maria sings 'I Have Confidence' and see the imposing fortress, the immense cathedral and Mozart’s birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse. Perhaps join an excursion to the famous Eagle's Nest? Continue to the mountain ringed Tyrolean capital of Innsbruck to see the Golden Roof and Imperial Palace.
Day 22: Liechtenstein To Lucerne Relaxed Start
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey past flower-filled meadows and picturesque chalet-style villages to the Principality of Liechtenstein. Spend some time in its tiny capital, Vaduz, then cross into Switzerland and through glorious mountains to lakeside Lucerne. On arrival, visit Lucerne'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.
Day 23: Lucerne And Mt Stanserhorn
Location: 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 and glamorous Swiss watches 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 24: Legends Along The Rhine
Location: Königswinter
Accommodation Name: Maritim, Königswinter
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy traveling through Germany and follow the Rhine Valley north to Königswinter.
Day 25: The Canals Of Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Accommodation Name: Apollo, Amsterdam
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Delight in a private estate viewing of one of the famous Rhineland castles and learn more about these living cultural monuments situated along the Middle Rhine over a glass of wine. Continue your travels to Amsterdam. The best way to see this remarkable city is from the water as you cruise through the canal district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the elegant merchant houses from the 16th and 17th centuries, their facades are a reflection of when trade flourished during Amsterdam's Golden Age. Relax as you pass stunning gables, beautiful churches and the iconic Magere Brug, better known as the Skinny Bridge. In the evening, toast your adventure and new-found friends during a Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 26: Depart Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, transfers arrive at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport.
What's Included
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Meals
8 dinners with wine and 25 breakfasts are included.
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Local Experiences
Join local experts for guided tours and unique experiences in various cities, including food tours, museum visits, and cultural activities.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided to ensure you don't miss any commentary from your local expert.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
All hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you don't have to worry about tipping or carrying foreign currency.
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Porterage
Porterage service is included, ensuring your bags are delivered to your hotel room.
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Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available on the coach and in hotels where available.
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights match the itinerary start and end dates.
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Luxury Coach
Travel in comfort on Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as excursions to Pompeii or Lake Bled are not included and can be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and other travel-related documentation costs are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury aboard Insight's air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom, sanitized before the start of your tour and maintained to high standards. Physical distancing measures and hand sanitizer are provided for your safety.
Accommodation
Stay in a variety of comfortable and well-appointed hotels, including the Marriott Rive Gauche in Paris, Novotel Gare St Jean in Bordeaux, and Hilton in Barcelona, among others, ensuring a restful and enjoyable experience throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of dining experiences can I expect on this tour?
You can expect a variety of dining experiences, including dinners with wine, a farm-to-table dinner in Avignon, a pintxos dinner in San Sebastián, cocktails and dinner in St. Mark's Square in Venice, and a celebration dinner in Amsterdam. Additionally, there are opportunities to enjoy local specialties such as Viennese coffee and Sachertorte in Vienna.
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Are there any unique activities included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several unique activities such as a visit to a traditional glassblowing workshop in Venice, a journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a solar-powered cable car, and an after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome. You will also have the opportunity to explore the Capuchins' Crypt in Vienna and visit the Reina Sofia Museum in Madrid with an art historian.
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Will I have free time to explore on my own?
Yes, the itinerary includes free time in several cities such as Paris, Nice, Rome, and Lucerne, allowing you to explore at your own pace. You can also choose optional experiences like visiting Lake Bled in Slovenia or the ill-fated town of Pompeii.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides transportation in a luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. The coach is sanitized before the start of the tour and maintained to high standards, with physical distancing measures implemented. Hand sanitizer is also freely available on board.
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Are tips and taxes included in the tour price?
Yes, hotel and restaurant tips are included in the tour price, so you won't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency. All taxes and porterage charges at hotels are also included.
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Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available on the coach and in hotels where available, allowing you to stay connected with friends and family throughout the tour.
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What kind of expert guidance will I receive during the tour?
You will be accompanied by a Travel Director who will provide insights and commentary throughout the tour. Additionally, Local Experts will guide you through various cities and attractions, offering in-depth knowledge and unique perspectives on the destinations you visit.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour?
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.
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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
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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
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.