Grand European Odyssey From Paris to Prague

Upon your arrival in Paris, we will provide a convenient transfer to your hotel to start your journey. You'll have some leisure time to relax and explore the surroundings at your own pace. Later in the afternoon, be sure to check out the information boards in the hotel reception, where you will find all the details regarding the start of your tour. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

We begin our exploration of Paris with a visit to the awe-inspiring Palace of Versailles. Known for its opulent architecture and expansive gardens, this landmark is a testament to the grandeur of French history and is a must-see for any visitor. Please note that entrance fees are not covered. Upon returning to Paris, we head to Montmartre, the quintessential bohemian district renowned for its artistic heritage, with painters and cabarets contributing to its lively atmosphere. Our day continues with a panoramic city tour led by a local guide, showcasing Paris's iconic avenues and monuments, giving you a sense of the city's vibrant culture and history. Later, we return to the hotel, where you'll have the option to attend a variety show if you wish to continue your Parisian adventure into the evening.

Today begins with a visit to one of the most iconic symbols of Paris, the Eiffel Tower. You will have the opportunity to ascend to the second floor of this renowned iron structure, with tickets already included in the tour. Following this, we will set sail on the Seine for a relaxing boat cruise lasting about an hour and fifteen minutes, offering a unique perspective of the city's landmarks along the riverside. The afternoon is yours to explore Paris at your leisure, giving you the freedom to soak up the citys vibrant atmosphere, wander through its charming streets, or visit additional attractions of your choice. Please note that the transfer back to the hotel is not included. If the wait times at the Eiffel Tower are too extensive, we might adjust the schedule to ensure a pleasant experience, even if that means visiting the tower at a different time or on Sunday.

On the fourth day of our tour, we will venture into the heart of France, traversing the celebrated Burgundy region, famed for its beautiful vineyards and exceptional wines. Our journey begins in Beaune, a delightful town nestled in the centre of Burgundy, noted for its vibrant flower-lined streets, historical hospice, and a fascinating wine museum. After enjoying some free time for lunch and a leisurely stroll, we will proceed to Lyon. Once the capital of Roman Gaul, Lyon sits gracefully on the banks of the Rhne River, with its historic centre proudly designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. We will ascend by cable car to Notre-Dame de Fourvire, where we can soak in breathtaking views of the city. You'll then have some free time to explore Lyon at your own pace. Please be aware that on some occasions, part of our group may reside for the night in Chambry, a charming city near Lyon. In such instances, we will travel to Chambry in the evening, where you can look forward to exploring its medieval-style cityscape and the captivating historic centre in the morning.

On our fifth day, we'll set off for Switzerland. Our first stop is Geneva, where we'll catch a glimpse of the iconic Palace of Nations, the European headquarters of the United Nations. We'll also wander through the charming English Garden, home to the famous flower clock, and marvel at the Jet d'Eau, the tallest fountain in Europe. After lunch, our adventure continues as we travel through Switzerland, taking picturesque routes by Lake Geneva and Lake Neuchtel, passing through the Three Lakes region. This scenic drive offers stunning views of vineyards and majestic mountains. We will stop in Neuchtel, giving you the opportunity to stroll by the lake, explore the historic town centre, or visit its splendid 10th-century castle. The day concludes with our arrival in Zurich in the late afternoon. Please note that, depending on passenger numbers from Geneva to Zurich, this leg of the journey might be by train, which would result in no stop at Neuchtel.

Today we delve into Zurich, Switzerland's largest city and a key financial and cultural hub. Known for its outstanding quality of life, Zurich doesnt disappoint. We'll begin with a guided exploration of the city, recognised for its impressive banks and vibrant cultural scene. Following this, we will embark on a picturesque two-hour cruise on Lake Zurich. Along the way, well make brief stops to explore delightful villages dotting the lakeside. Upon reaching Rapperswil, you will be captivated by its medieval castle and charming streets. Well return to Zurich by train, offering a chance to witness the efficiency of the Swiss railway system. Kindly note, depending on the group size, transport to and from the city centre might be via public means.

Today, we embark on a journey through Switzerland's breathtaking landscapes, characterised by towering mountains and serene lakes. Our first stop is the enchanting region of Interlaken, where we will pause in Grindelwald for a coffee break before taking a cable car ride up the mountain. At the top, we will stroll along a scenic path leading to a suspended bridge those with a taste for adventure can cross it for a magnificent view of the glaciers. Lunch is included and will be enjoyed against this stunning alpine backdrop. Next, we head to Lucerne, celebrated as one of Switzerland's most charming cities, where you'll have time to explore its picturesque allure. We then return to Zurich. For an extra thrill, your guide will offer an optional full-day excursion, starting in the morning, which includes free time in Lucerne and a rotating cable car ride to the summit of Mount Titlis. At over 3,000 metres above sea level, the glacier and Alpine views are simply awe-inspiring.

We begin our day by departing from Zurich early in the morning as we journey across the stunning Alps into the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland. Our first stop is the charming city of Bellinzona, celebrated for its three medieval castles, officially recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These impressive fortifications are a testament to Bellinzona's historical role as a strategic alpine stronghold. You'll have time to explore the quaint streets of the town centre at your own pace. Our journey then takes us into Italy, where we pause in the beautiful town of Como for lunch. Nestled in Lombardy, Como is famed for its exquisite lakeside gardens and magnificent cathedral, often heralded as the jewel of the region. Our day concludes in Milan, where we'll guide you through the iconic Piazza del Duomo. Here, you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere and explore before transferring to your hotel for the evening.

We set off for Pisa today, where a charming train ride takes us to the Piazza dei Miracoli. Here, you will have the opportunity to explore one of Italy's most remarkable and enchanting architectural sites, including the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Our journey then takes us south to Rome, arriving in the Italian capital later in the day. As you relax on the drive, anticipate the blend of ancient history and vibrant culture that awaits in this magnificent city.

On our tenth day, we will dive into the heart of Rome with a three-hour guided tour, blending a walk through the history-rich Imperial Rome with a panoramic bus ride. As we explore one of the oldest and most influential cities in Western civilisation, we will visit legendary landmarks including the Arch of Constantine, the exterior of the Colosseum, and the Imperial Forums. You'll gain insight into ancient entertainment at the Circus Maximus and relax near the Baths of Caracalla. Our tour will also encompass the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the Pyramid of Cestius, and the imposing Castel SantAngelo, concluding at Vatican City around 11 o'clock. After our morning venture, youll have the option to discover more of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel if you choose. As the day winds down, we'll transport you to the lively Trastevere neighbourhood, celebrated for its warm, inviting restaurants and vibrant atmosphere. We will return to the hotel by approximately 8:30 p.m.

Today, we set off from Rome towards the enchanting city of Florence, basking in the scenic splendour along our journey north. Upon arrival, we head straight to the breathtaking Piazzale Michelangelo, where the entire cityscape of Florence unfolds before you in an unforgettable panorama. Next, we make our way to the historic centrean open-air museum in its own rightwhere a local expert will guide us through this artistic treasure trove. We will visit iconic landmarks such as the Ponte Vecchio, the majestic Duomo, and the bustling Piazza della Signoria. After a guided exploration, you'll have some leisure time to delve into Florence's rich history and vibrant culture at your own pace. As evening falls, the district's numerous restaurants stand ready to offer diverse culinary delights for dinner.

Today, we will traverse the breathtaking mountain scenery of the Apennines as we make our way to Venice. On arrival, we will board a boat to cross the Giudecca Canal, leading us to the enchanting Island of Venice. With a knowledgeable local guide, we will explore the iconic St. Mark's Square, a testament to Venice's rich history and architecture. Following this, we will visit the renowned Murano Glass Factory, where you can observe traditional glass-making techniques that have been passed down through generations. You will then have some free time to stroll around and soak in the unique atmosphere of Venice at your own pace. Your accommodation for the night will be in the Mestre district.

We set off from Venice and venture into the scenic vistas of Austria. Our first destination is Innsbruck, the charming capital of the Tyrolean region. Here, youll have time to wander through the historic city centre, soaking in its rich architectural beauty before enjoying a leisurely lunch. Post lunch, well drive through breathtaking mountain landscapes, heading towards the picturesque village of Kitzbhel, a renowned ski resort where snow graces the slopes nearly year-round. Youll have some time to explore this enchanting spot at your own pace. Our journey then continues towards Salzburg, where we aim to arrive by the day's end. Please note that if the group is small, we may travel by train from Venice to Innsbruck.

Today, we delve deeper into the beauty of Austria, starting our morning in Salzburg, known as Mozart's birthplace. This city captivates with its Renaissance and Baroque architecture, all set beneath the majestic fortress. Following our exploration of Salzburg, well journey through picturesque landscapes of lakes and mountains to St. Wolfgang, a renowned pilgrimage site. Afterward, we will head to Traunkirchen by the serene Traunsee Lake, where we'll embark on a cruise to admire the splendour of its four castles. Our boat ride will conclude in Gmunden, after which we will continue our journey to Vienna, where we expect to arrive in the evening. You can look forward to discovering the rich cultural tapestry of Vienna soon after we settle in for the night.

We'll begin our day in Vienna with a panoramic tour led by a local guide, showcasing this magnificent city's grand avenues, stunning palaces, and lush parks. In the afternoon, you have free time to further delve into the vibrant city centre, soaking in the rich history and diverse culture at your own pace. As evening approaches, we'll transport you to the Grinzing district, an area known for its charming traditional taverns, nestled within what was once a wine-growing village now part of Vienna. You'll have ample opportunity to enjoy dinner here, surrounded by the authentic Viennese atmosphere.

We will depart from Vienna and make our way to Budapest, Hungary's vibrant capital, which we'll reach after approximately three hours of travel. Our first stop will be the bustling Vci utca, a vibrant pedestrian street known for its shops and eateries, where you'll have some free time to enjoy lunch. Post-lunch, well embark on a scenic boat trip along the majestic Danube River. From the river, enjoy views of historic Buda on one side and the lively energy of Pest on the othera view that's sure to impress. Continuing our day, we'll take you on a panoramic tour of Budapest, often referred to as the "Queen of the Danube," to explore its most notable landmarks. You'll have additional free time afterward to delve deeper into the city at your own pace. In the evening, we offer an optional excursion to experience a traditional Magyar show, complete with dinner, for those interested in diving deeper into Hungarian culture.

We depart Budapest early, setting our sights on Bratislava, Slovakia's charming capital nestled along the Danube. Here, youll have ample time to explore its captivating historic centre and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Continuing our journey through Europe, we make our way to the Czech Republic, arriving in Prague by evening. Once settled, we'll transfer you to the vibrant Old Town Square, a perfect starting point to discover the city's enchanting ambience. With a plethora of dining options offering international cuisine whether you fancy Czech, Chinese, Indian, or Italian you'll find something to suit your palate. After dinner, we regroup and head back to the hotel to rest for the night.

Today, we'll explore the enchanting city of Prague, one of Europe's Baroque treasures. Our local guide will enrich your understanding of this historic capital with a panoramic tour showcasing its most celebrated monuments. A highlight of the day is a visit to the majestic Prague Castle, with your entry already arranged. Following this, we will embark on a delightful cruise along the Vltava River, offering a unique perspective of the city's stunning architecture. The afternoon is yours to delve deeper into Prague's charm. Take the opportunity to wander through its picturesque streets, discover hidden cafes, or visit fascinating local attractions at your own pace.

We begin day 19 by departing early from Prague, heading towards Pilsen in western Bohemia. This city is internationally celebrated for its beer. You'll have some leisure time to wander through Pilsen's historic centre, where intriguing sights await, such as the Old Town Square, the impressive cathedral, the Plague Column, and the Renaissance-era town hall.After your visit, we'll cross into Germany, tracing part of the Romantic Road to reach Rothenburg. This town, with its fairy tale charm, is often regarded as one of Germany's most picturesque villages. Take in the character and beauty of this medieval town before we continue onward to the bustling city of Frankfurt, Germany's financial hub.Upon arriving in Frankfurt in the evening, you'll have free time to explore the historic city centre. It's brimming with a variety of dining options, ranging from Indian and Asian to Italian and international cuisines, ensuring a delightful culinary experience to wrap up your day.

Today, we embark on a captivating journey along the Rhine, beginning with a scenic cruise from Rdesheim to St. Goar. This stretch of the river is famed for its enchanting vistas, where you can admire quaint villages and watch the rolling landscapes transition around you. Following our cruise, we continue to the vibrant city of Cologne, renowned for its stunning Gothic cathedral, which is truly a marvel of medieval architecture. Later, we set off towards the Netherlands, arriving in Amsterdam in the evening. A city celebrated for its intricate canal systems and artistic heritage, Amsterdam promises a warm welcome. Relax and enjoy the evening at your leisure, exploring this charming city at your own pace.

Today, we'll discover the quintessential charm of Holland, known for its iconic landscapes and quaint villages. Our day begins with a visit to Zaanse Schans, where you'll be enchanted by traditional Dutch houses, serene canals, and picturesque windmills. Next, we continue to Volendam, a delightful fishing village offering scenic views and a taste of authentic Dutch life.From Volendam, we board a short boat trip to the island of Marken, now connected to the mainland by a dike. Here, you can admire the charming houses originally built on stilts as a safeguard against floods, reflecting the region's rich maritime heritage.In the afternoon, we explore Amsterdam with a guided tour that showcases the city's diverse attractions. We'll see the famous windmills and the Rembrandt statue, experience the modern sophistication of the South District, and delve into the artistry of diamond cutting at Museum Square. Our exploration concludes with a stroll through the city's heart, where you'll have free time to wander along Amsterdams enchanting canals, visit local markets, or relax in a caf.

We journey towards Bruges today, a picturesque medieval city often referred to as the "Venice of the North" thanks to its charming canals. As you wander the enchanting cobblestone streets, you'll be surrounded by historic buildings and romantic bridges that create a truly magical atmosphere. For those feeling adventurous, you might want to climb the Belfry Tower to enjoy breathtaking views over this captivating city. Savour some Belgian chocolate or perhaps indulge in a locally brewed craft beer during your visit. Later, we continue our travels to Paris, arriving by the end of the day, ready to embrace the vibrant culture and allure of the French capital.

As our journey draws to a close, we will enjoy breakfast together before saying our farewells. The memories we've created over these past weeksfrom the iconic landmarks to the cultural experienceswill surely stay with you for a lifetime. As you prepare to leave Paris, take some time to reflect on the incredible highlights and friendships you've made along the way. We hope your travels continue to be filled with wonder and discovery.