Highlights of Europe - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group, Summer
Highlights of Europe - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group, Summer
$6385
Highlights of Europe - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group, Summer
14 Days Starting in Amsterdam and ending in Paris
Visiting: Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Neuschwanstein Castle, Innsbruck, Veneto, Venice, Rome, Vatican, Florence, Baveno, Stanserhorn, Lucerne, Paris
Tour operator:
Tour code:
E933N126
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Tour Overview
Experience the best Europe has to offer. Cruise along the quaint canals in Amsterdam, and travel from Austria, across the Dolomites into Italy. Join a local home dinner in Rome where your host serves up delicious regional dishes. Enjoy fast-track access to the Vatican museums and view Michaelangelo's famous ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. Then voyage through the Chianti Hills of Florence and the cobbled streets of lakeside Lucerne with a final stop in the city of lights, Paris.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Amsterdam
Welcome to Amsterdam, enjoy a day of leisure. Join your Travel Director for dinner. Mingle and get to know your fellow travelers as you cruise along some of the many quaint, tree-lined canals, to explore the heart of the Old City, before enjoying a pleasant evening of dinner and wine at a local restaurant.
Day 2: The Rhine Valley And Heidelberg
Location: Amsterdam, Heidelberg
Accommodation Name: Marriott, Heidelberg
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take a scenic drive through the Rhine Valley to see quaint villages, hilltop castles and hear the legend of the Lorelei Rock. Follow the Neckar River to Heidelberg and visit Heidelberg Castle with a Local Expert.
Day 3: Mountain-Ringed Innsbruck
Location: Heidelberg, Neuschwanstein Castle, Innsbruck
Accommodation Name: AC, Innsbruck
Meals Included: Breakfast
Skirt the northern Black Forest and head towards the rolling Bavarian Alps. Stop beneath the royal castles of Hohenschwangau and King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein, rumoured to have inspired Walt Disney's iconic castle. Once over the Austrian border, continue to the Tyrolean capital of Innsbruck. Tour the architectural jewels of the city, seeing the Imperial Palace, Golden Roof and the 14th century houses of the Old Town.
Day 4: Across The Dolomites To Venice Relaxed Start
Location: Innsbruck, Veneto, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue your journey, crossing the Italian border and on through the Dolomites. Amongst the hills of Conegliano Veneto, stop at a local family winery in Veneto to discover the art of prosecco production. Savor a tasting of these luxurious sparkling wines. Continue to the romantic city of Venice, Queen of the Adriatic. In the evening, enjoy a dinner with wine.
Day 5: The Magic Of La Serenissima Relaxed Start
Location: Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up ready to embrace this romantic city. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you witness the skill of glassblowers on a visit to a traditional glassblowing workshop. Take a private cruise to St. Mark's Square where the city's former wealth and power is evidenced by the riches of St. Mark's Basilica. Admire the Doge's Palace and its adjoining Bridge of Sighs. With the rest of the day free, why not cruise the Venetian lagoon to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine?
Day 6: The Eternal City Of Rome
Location: Venice, Rome
Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head into the Apennine Mountains and venture through the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria. Follow the course of the Tiber to the Eternal City of Rome. Enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, welcomed by the Rector of the basilica. Gaze in awe at the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics, illuminated for this evening's experience, and see the first sculpture by Bernini. Italian culture is deeply rooted in hospitality with food, friends and family being central to everyday life. For dinner, you’re invited into the home of a Roman local to experience Italian hospitality at its best.
Day 7: Papal And Imperial Rome
Location: Rome, Vatican, Rome
Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
During your two-night stay, join a Local Expert for a tour of the priceless art housed in the Vatican Museums and the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel. Then explore St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world. Cross the River Tiber to see the largest amphitheater of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum and enjoy the afternoon at your leisure.
Day 8: The Chianti Hills To Florence
Location: Rome, Florence
Accommodation Name: NH Firenze, Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive to the Chianti Hills and 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 a virtual open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. A leisurely afternoon gives you time to shop for quality goods, like gold and leather, which Florence is famous for. Alternatively, there is the option to visit the Accademia Gallery with an art historian to see Michelangelo's famed masterpiece, 'David.' In the evening, savor an authentic meal at a local trattoria in the heart of Florence.
Day 9: Lake Maggiore Relaxed Start
Location: Florence, Baveno
Accommodation Name: Simplon, Baveno
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel past Milan, the capital of Lombardy, as you journey north to the beautiful Italian Lake District, a favorite retreat of the rich and famous where Alpine scenery combines with luxuriant subtropical vegetation. Relax and enjoy an afternoon at leisure at this popular resort and beautiful lake. Perhaps choose to take a cruise to the lovely Isola Bella for a guided tour of the incredible palace and stunning Botanical Gardens? Later, the choice is yours for your Dine-Around Evening. Enjoy your preferred dining experience from a selection of hand-picked local restaurants, each offering their own unique cuisine and ambience.
Day 10: The Alps And Onto Lucerne Relaxed Start
Location: Baveno, Stanserhorn, Lucerne
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, enjoy your last moments among the charming Italian Lake District before your travels continue across the Swiss border. 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. Continue to lakeside Lucerne where the afternoon is at your leisure. You may choose to enjoy a cruise on Lake Lucerne with its dramatic vistas.
Day 11: Lakeside Lucerne Relaxed Start
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
The emotive Lion Monument, carved into a limestone cliff, is a memorial dedicated to the heroic Swiss Guards who died defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution, which is a source of great pride to the people of Lucerne. See this beautiful work before strolling across the Chapel Bridge to see the ornate Jesuit Church. 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?
Day 12: Sights And Delights Of Paris
Location: Lucerne, Paris
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through the rural French country side of Alsace and Burgundy regions, famous for their vineyards and wines, to arrive in the vibrant City of Light. During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, 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 13: The Food And Flavors Of Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you can enjoy an Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join an avid 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, enjoy dinner at the historic restaurant La Coupole. Delight in French cuisine and delicious wine.
Day 14: Au Revoir Paris
Location: Paris
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
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Meals
6 dinners with wine and 13 breakfasts are included.
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Activities
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Paris.
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Local Experiences
Join a local food lover on a walk through the streets of Paris, visiting patisseries, boulangeries, and chocolatiers.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided to give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights without missing any commentary.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included, along with all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
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Luggage Handling
Your bags are carried for you and promptly delivered to your hotel door.
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Insight Flourish
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, a local specialty representing the destination.
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Wi-Fi
Stay connected with complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.
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Welcome Dinner
Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in Amsterdam for a delightful Welcome Dinner, served with wine.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
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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 requirements are not included.
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Gratuities for Tour Director and Driver
Gratuities for the Tour Director and Driver are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom, ensuring a comfortable and sanitized journey.
Accommodation
Stay in luxurious hotels such as the Hilton in Amsterdam, Marriott in Heidelberg, AC in Innsbruck, and Marriott Rive Gauche in Paris, offering comfort and convenience 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 a Welcome Dinner in Amsterdam, a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina dinner in Florence, a Dine-Around Evening in Baveno with a selection of hand-picked local restaurants, and a rousing dinner with wine at La Coupole in Paris. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a home-cooked meal with a local host in Rome and a tasting of prosecco at a local winery in Veneto.
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Are there any unique experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several unique experiences such as an after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome, witnessing the traditional craft of glassblowing in Venice, and a journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a solar-powered open-top cable car. You will also have the opportunity to explore the Montorgueil district in Paris or join a local food lover to sample local treats.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides transportation in Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. The coaches are sanitized before the start of the tour and maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented, and hand sanitizer is freely available on board.
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Will I have free time to explore on my own?
Yes, the itinerary includes several opportunities for leisure and exploration on your own. For example, you will have free time in Venice, Lucerne, and Paris to explore the cities at your own pace.
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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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What kind of accommodations can I expect during the tour?
You will stay in a variety of hotels throughout the tour, including the Hilton in Amsterdam, Marriott in Heidelberg, AC in Innsbruck, Room 007 Select in Rome, NH Firenze in Florence, Simplon in Baveno, Astoria in Lucerne, and Marriott Rive Gauche in Paris.
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Are tips and taxes included in the tour price?
Yes, hotel and restaurant tips are included, 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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Will there be any guided tours during the trip?
Yes, the tour includes guided tours with Local Experts at various locations such as Heidelberg Castle, the Imperial Palace in Innsbruck, St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum in Rome, and the Duomo in Florence.
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Is there Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available on the coach and at the hotels where you will be staying, allowing you to stay connected with friends and family.
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What kind of activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as a canal cruise in Amsterdam, a scenic drive through the Rhine Valley, a visit to a traditional glassblowing workshop in Venice, a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome, and a journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn in Switzerland. You will also have the opportunity to explore the Montorgueil district in Paris or join a local food lover to sample local treats.
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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?
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