Paris to Barcelona European Dream Adventure

Welcome to your tour! Upon your arrival in Paris, we will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy some leisure time at your own pace. In the afternoon, please check the boards at the hotel reception for key information regarding the start of your exciting itinerary. 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.

On the second day of our tour, we'll dive into the grandeur of French history with a visit to the renowned Palace of Versailles. Although admission isn't covered, we encourage you to explore its exquisite gardens. Upon returning to Paris, we'll discover Montmartre, a delightful bohemian district celebrated for its vibrant community of artists and historical cabarets. To truly witness the majesty of Paris, we'll embark on a panoramic city tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. This experience will showcase the city's grand boulevards and iconic landmarks. Following this enriching day, we'll head back to the hotel. For those seeking evening entertainment, you have the option to attend a local variety show to cap off your day in style.

We begin our third day in the heart of Paris with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. You'll have the opportunity to ascend to the second floor of this world-renowned landmark, with entry tickets included. Following this, we'll enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Seine River, taking in the city's stunning skyline over approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. The afternoon is yours to explore Paris at your own pace, delving into its vibrant neighbourhoods or visiting its many museums and cultural sites. Please note that transport back to the hotel is not provided. Should there be long queues at the Eiffel Tower, we may reschedule the visit to another time, potentially on Sunday, for your convenience.

Today we venture into the heart of France, travelling through the enchanting Bourgogne region, celebrated for its picturesque vineyards and world-class wines. Our journey begins in Beaune, a delightful town at the centre of Burgundy, famed for its charming flower-lined streets, historical hospice, and captivating wine museum. You'll have some free time to enjoy lunch and explore the quaint town at your own pace.We then continue to Lyon, once the capital of Roman Gaul, which lies gracefully on the banks of the Rhne River. The historic centre of Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers fascinating insights into its rich past. Our visit includes a cable car ride to the stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvire, from where you can admire breathtaking vistas of the city. You'll have time to explore Lyon further, perhaps by wandering through its atmospheric streets or soaking up the local culture.Please note that for some, the day will conclude in Chambry, a charming city near Lyon. Here, you'll enjoy an overnight stay, with the morning free to explore this medieval-style city, the capital of the Savoy region, known for its beautiful historic centre and imposing castle.

Today we venture into Switzerland, starting with an exploration of Geneva. Our day begins by passing the stately Palace of Nations, the European headquarters of the United Nations. We'll take a leisurely stroll through the elegant English Garden, renowned for its decorative flower clock, and witness the spectacular Jet d'Eau, the tallest fountain in Europe. After indulging in lunch, our journey continues along the breathtaking routes by Lake Geneva and Lake Neuchtel. This scenic drive through the Three Lakes region offers stunning views of sprawling vineyards nestled against a magnificent mountain backdrop. We'll pause in the picturesque town of Neuchtel, where you have the opportunity to explore at your leisureperhaps taking a lakeside walk, delving into the town's historic centre, or visiting the beautiful 10th-century castle. Our day concludes in Zurich, where we arrive in the late afternoon. Please note that depending on the number of travellers, the leg from Geneva to Zurich may be traversed by train, in which case, the stop in Neuchtel will not occur.

Today, we dive into the heart of Zurich, the vibrant and bustling hub of Switzerland, renowned for its financial and cultural significance. Twice acknowledged for offering the world's best quality of life, Zurich promises an enriching exploration. With our knowledgeable guide, you'll traverse the city, taking in its notable landmarks and lively atmosphere. Following this, we embark on a leisurely cruise across the picturesque Lake Zurich, lasting nearly two hours. Our journey will have several brief stops, allowing time to enjoy the charming villages dotting the lake's scenic route. Our final port of call is Rapperswil, a quaint village famed for its striking medieval castle. After disembarking, we'll return to Zurich by train, providing a first-hand experience of the Swiss railway's famed efficiency and punctuality. Note that, depending on the number of travellers, transfers to and from Zurich's city centre may utilise public transport.

Our journey today promises awe-inspiring vistas of towering mountains and pristine lakes as we delve into the picturesque Interlaken region. Our first stop is in Grindelwald, where we can enjoy a warm cup of coffee before ascending the mountain by cable car. From the top, a winding path leads us to a suspended bridge that offers adventurous travellers the chance to savour breathtaking glacier views. Well pause for lunch on the mountain, included in the itinerary, before making our way back down. Next, we head to Lucerne renowned as one of Switzerlands most picturesque cities. There, youll have the opportunity to explore the charming streets and absorb the delightful cityscape before we return to Zurich. For those seeking further adventure, our guide will present an optional full-day excursion. This includes more free time in Lucerne, followed by a rotating cable car ride to the summit of Mount Titlis. At over 3,000 metres above sea level, the panoramic views of the glacier and the Alps are truly breathtaking.

We will set off from Zurich early in the morning, traversing the Alps to reach Switzerland's Italian-speaking region. Our first stop is the picturesque town of Bellinzona, renowned for its trio of UNESCO-listed medieval castles. These impressive fortresses, perched majestically on the hills, underscore Bellinzona's strategic significance as a historical alpine stronghold. You will have some time to stroll through the town's charming streets. Our journey continues into Italy, where we'll pause in the delightful town of Como for lunch. This gem of Lombardy is celebrated for its stunning lakeside gardens and grand cathedral. Afterwards, we'll make our way to Milan, where our guide will lead us to the breathtaking Piazza del Duomo. You'll have some time to explore this vibrant area before we transfer you to your hotel to conclude the day's adventures.

Today, we embark on a journey from Milan to Pisa. Once we arrive, a quaint tourist train will whisk us to the Piazza dei Miracoli, or Square of Miracles. Here, you will have the opportunity to marvel at one of Italy's most remarkable artistic complexes, including, of course, the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. After taking in the sights, we will continue our trip to Rome, arriving later in the day to prepare for the next day's adventures.

Enjoy a captivating morning exploring the Eternal City on a three-hour guided tour. We'll delve into the heart of Imperial Rome on foot and admire the ancient wonders during a panoramic bus journey. Experience the rich history and influence of one of Western civilisation's most iconic cities as we visit landmarks such as the Arch of Constantine and the exterior of the Colosseum. We will stroll through the Imperial Forums and admire the panoramic views from the Circus Maximus. The tour takes us past the Baths of Caracalla and the impressive Basilica of Saint Mary Major, alongside the Pyramid of Cestius and the formidable Castel Sant'Angelo. Our morning concludes around 11:00 a.m. at Vatican City, where you will have the option of an in-depth visit to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. As the day winds down, we'll head to the charming Trastevere neighbourhood. Known for its intimate restaurants and vibrant atmosphere, it offers the perfect setting for an evening of leisure. We'll return to the hotel at around 8:30 p.m.

Today, we'll organise your transfer to the airport for your included domestic flight to Madrid. Upon your arrival, you'll be met by another transfer that will take you to your hotel. Your guide will be in touch later in the day, or you can check this evening's details at the hotel reception. Just a reminder: for domestic flights, luggage allowance typically includes one suitcase up to 20kg for checked baggage. Any excess will require direct payment to the airline.

Start your day in Madrid with an enlightening tour that unveils the city's iconic landmarks. We'll traverse central Madrid, passing by notable sights such as Paseo del Prado, Cibeles, Neptuno, Puerta de Alcal, Plaza de Coln, and the bustling Plaza Mayor. Our next stop is the serene Retiro Park, a lush haven in the city's heart where we will enjoy the tranquil lake and the striking Palacio de Cristal. Then, we'll visit the revered Santiago Bernabu Stadium, home to the legendary Real Madrid, often hailed as the world's finest football club. The afternoon is yours to explore the city at your own pace. In the evening, we'll conveniently return you to your hotel after a day filled with Madrids vibrant culture and history.

Today, we depart from Madrid towards the region of Aragon, passing through the picturesque landscapes of Castile. Our first stop is Zaragoza, where we'll admire the impressive Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, a marvellous example of Baroque architecture. Continuing our journey, we arrive at the peaceful Poblet Abbey. This remarkable site is one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in the world, and your entry is included, offering a glimpse into monastic life of the past. Later, we proceed to Barcelona, reaching this vibrant city in the evening.

We begin our morning with a panoramic tour of Barcelona, a city celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere along the Mediterranean coast. As we explore this captivating European capital, you'll encounter the innovative modernist architecture of Antoni Gaud, such as the iconic Sagrada Familia and Park Gell. Barcelona's rich tapestry of history and culture is further woven by landmarks from its Universal Exposition and Olympic past. Following our guided introduction, you'll have the afternoon free to immerse yourself in the city's dynamic streets, perhaps visiting the whimsical shops of the Gothic Quarter or opting for a quiet moment at a local caf. As evening approaches, well offer a transfer to Maremagnum, an impressive hub of entertainment and dining set against the backdrop of the sea near Plaza de Coln. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely walk and indulge in a variety of eateries, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere as you conclude your day in Barcelona.

After breakfast, we bid farewell as our journey concludes, leaving you with a treasure trove of wonderful memories from your travels. Safe travels and we hope to see you again on another adventure.