Splendid Europe - Eurostar Extension, Small Group
Splendid Europe - Eurostar Extension, Small Group
$6750
Splendid Europe - Eurostar Extension, Small Group
14 Days Starting in Rome and ending in London
Visiting: Rome, Vatican, Venice, Ljubljana, Maribor, Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Vaduz, Lucerne, Stanserhorn, Konigswinter, Amsterdam, London
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Follow in the footsteps of the gladiators as you see the Colosseum in Rome, take in the regal history of the Habsburgs at Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna and see the Rhine Valley sights on the road to Konigswinter, on this 2-week guided tour. From the iconic attractions of Rome and the cultural gems of the Vatican, your expert led voyage sets out across Europe, stopping for sunset cocktails and dinner in Venice, and sightseeing in the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana. In Vienna, enjoy the exclusive Insight Choice of Viennese Waltz dance lessons—set to the tunes of Mozart’s masterpieces, or sample sachertorte at a traditional Viennese café, washed down with a specially selected coffee. End your adventure with a private Rhine Castle visit paired with regional wines and a Celebration Dinner in Amsterdam.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Vienna: Visit a traditional coffeehouse to enjoy Viennese specialties of coffee and Sachertorte.
- Vienna: Visit Capuchins' Crypt - the burial place of the Habsburg family in Vienna.
Top Rated Highlights
- Venice: With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.
- Ljubljana: Explore this elegant capital with your Local Expert, to see the castle City Hall, Cathedral of St Nicholas and Triple Bridge.
- Maribor: Led by your Travel Director, explore this charming city, the second largest in Slovenia. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of old and new architecture.
- Vienna: Join your Local Expert for a city tour that reveals both the renowned sights and hidden gems of Vienna's historic core. Travel along the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche.
- Salzburg: Join your Local Expert to visit the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace and Residence Square - both locations used in 'The Sound of Music.' You will also see the imposing fortress, the immense cathedral and Mozart's birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse.
- Innsbruck: Nestled amidst majestic mountains, Innsbruck is a beautiful city offering a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. Stroll the streets of the picturesque Old Town, with your Travel Director, learn about its history and admire the Baroque and Gothic architecture.
- Vaduz: Admire the Royal family's residence, Vaduz Castle, which overlooks the capital and is surrounded by year-round snow peaked mountains.
- Lucerne: See the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge.
- Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit.
- Amsterdam: Cruise along the waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
Make Travel Matter
Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft. This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit. 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. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 15: Affordable and Clean Energy & Life on Land.
Authentic Dining
Rome: Savor dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant, offering a perfect exploration of Lazio's typical flavors.
Venice: In St Marks Square at sunset, long after the day-trippers have gone to their mainland hotels, sip cocktails canal-side before dinner at a local restaurant.
Lucerne: Choose from a selection of restaurants on your Dine-Around Evening and hand-pick your preferred ambience, cuisine and drinks for an intimate culinary experience.
Amsterdam: Toast the culmination of your travels during a fabulous Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant.
Insight Choice
Vienna: Visit a traditional coffeehouse to enjoy Viennese specialties of coffee and Sachertorte.
Vienna: Visit Capuchins' Crypt - the burial place of the Habsburg family in Vienna.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To The Eternal City Of Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Meals Included: Dinner
2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a center of celebration. As festivities unfold, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure you make the most of your time as you visit the Eternal City. Welcome to Rome, a glorious city filled with classic antiquities, medieval buildings, renaissance palaces and baroque churches. Transfers depart from Rome's Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport for your hotel.Relax and settle in before joining your Travel Director and getting to know your fellow travelers over a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Exploring Papal Rome
Location: Rome, Vatican, 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 on 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 an exclusive after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes.
Day 3: Rome At Leisure Relaxed Start
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
The day is yours to enjoy Rome at your own pace. 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? As night falls, why not sip on prosecco at a sidewalk cafe in Piazza Navona - the Living Room of Rome - and enjoy life's pageantry pass by?
Day 4: Autostrada Del Sole To Venice
Location: Rome, 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 water taxi and savor a cocktail at sunset whilst you are serenaded by an ensemble of talented musicians, long after the day-trippers have returned to their mainland hotels, before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 5: Venice And 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 6: Venice To Elegant Ljubljana Relaxed Start
Location: Venice, 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 7: Ljubljana To Vienna
Location: Ljubljana, Maribor, 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 8: 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 capitol’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. Explore Vienna with Insight Choice. Choose to visit to a traditional Viennese café to enjoy local specialties of coffee and Sachertorte. Alternatively, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during an inclusive workshop and take to the floor in a Viennese Waltz dance workshop designed to support the visually impaired community.
Day 9: Salzburg And On To Innsbruck
Location: Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck
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 10: Liechtenstein To Lucerne Relaxed Start
Location: Innsbruck, Vaduz, 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 11: Lucerne And Mt Stanserhorn
Location: Lucerne, Stanserhorn
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, 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, 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 12: Legends Along The Rhine
Location: Lucerne, Konigswinter
Accommodation Name: Maritim, Königswinter
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy traveling through Germany and follow the Rhine Valley north to Königswinter.
Day 13: The Canals Of Amsterdam
Location: Konigswinter, Amsterdam
Accommodation Name: Grand Amrâth, Amsterdam
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 14: Return To London
Location: Amsterdam, London
In the morning, travel to Brussels for your high-speed Eurostar train journey. On arrival, you are transferred to your London hotel where your trip ends.
What's Included
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Dining
The tour includes 2 Dinners, 12 Breakfasts, and 3 Dinners with Wine.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels throughout the tour, including Radisson Blu GHR in Rome and Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio in Venice.
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Transport
Transfers from Rome's Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport to your hotel are included, as well as travel by luxury coach and high-speed Eurostar train.
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Guided Tours
Local Experts provide guided tours in various cities, including Rome, Venice, and Vienna.
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Exclusive Experiences
Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit in Rome.
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Make Travel Matter Experiences
Participate in experiences that support sustainable practices, such as a glassblowing workshop in Venice and a conservation talk on Mount Stanserhorn.
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Well-being Measures
The tour ensures well-being with sanitized luxury coaches, physical distancing measures, and hand sanitizer available on board.
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Additional Included Highlights
Personal radio headsets, hotel and restaurant tips, taxes, porterage charges, and complimentary Wi-Fi are included.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as a visit to Pompeii or Lake Bled are not included in the tour price.
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Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending locations of the tour are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks outside of the included dining are not covered.
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Transfers Outside Scheduled Times
Transfers are only included at scheduled times.
If your flights are outside these times, additional transfers may be purchased.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with a luxurious, air-conditioned coach featuring double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Enjoy scenic journeys by water taxi in Venice and a high-speed Eurostar train from Brussels to London, ensuring a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Radisson Blu GHR in Rome, Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio in Venice, Lev Ljubljana, Hilton Vienna Park, AC Innsbruck, Astoria in Lucerne, Maritim in Konigswinter, and Grand Amrâth in Amsterdam, offering a blend of modern amenities and local charm.
Dining Summary
- 2 Dinner (D)
- 12 Breakfast (B)
- 3 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
- Vatican: Visit the Vatican Museums, witness the genius of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and see St. Peter's Basilica.
- 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.
- Rhineland: The beautiful scenery of the Rhine River is punctuated by the many castles dotted along its banks. Delight in a private estate viewing of one of these Rhineland castles and learn more about these living cultural monuments located along the Middle Rhine.
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 an exclusive after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience witnessing the skill of glassblowers in Venice, and a journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a solar-powered open-top cable car in Switzerland.
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Are there any special dining experiences during the tour?
Yes, the tour offers several authentic dining experiences including a Welcome Dinner in Rome, cocktails and dinner in Venice's St. Mark's Square, a Dine-Around Evening in Lucerne, and a Celebration Dinner in Amsterdam.
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What are some of the highlights of the Vienna visit?
In Vienna, you can choose to visit a traditional coffeehouse to enjoy Viennese specialties or visit the Capuchins' Crypt. There is also an option to join a private tour of Maria Theresa's Schönbrunn Palace and a city tour that includes the Ring Road and the historic core of Vienna.
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What activities are available in Venice?
In Venice, you will admire the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs, witness a glassblowing demonstration, and take a private cruise to St. Mark’s Square. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy cocktails at sunset while being serenaded by musicians.
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What can I expect during the visit to Lucerne and Mount Stanserhorn?
In Lucerne, you will visit the Lion Monument and have leisure time to explore the city. At Mount Stanserhorn, you will take a solar-powered open-top cable car to the summit, enjoy scenic pathways, and have the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger.
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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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Thursday - Wednesday
Aug 21, 2025 - Sep 03, 2025Book with Confidence
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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
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