European Odyssey Culture and Charm Unveiled
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Begin your epic 22-day journey in the vibrant streets of Barcelona and conclude in the iconic cityscape of Paris. Over these unforgettable days, you'll explore Barcelona's modernist wonders, stroll through Girona's historic charm, and journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Switzerland's Glacier 3000. Indulge in cultural gems like Geneva's Palais des Nations and Vienna's grand palaces. Experience the timeless allure of Italy, from the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the Renaissance beauty of Florence. Enjoy scenic cruises on Lake Geneva and the Rhine, and soak in the romantic atmosphere of Bruges. This tour captivates with rich history, stunning views, and cultural delights that will linger in your heart.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
22 daysHotel Rating
3-4 star hotelsStarts
BarcelonaEnds
ParisMinimum age
No minimum ageMaximum age
100Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
NoTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Countries
Austria, Belgium, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Germany, Spain, France, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, SlovakiaPassengers
$4,492.00
$400.00
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 1 / Max 65
Trip Type
Large Coach Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Group Size
Min 1 / Max 65Tranportation
N/ALanguage
EnglishLanguage
EnglishRange
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Large Coach ToursPlaces You'll See
Barcelona
Girona
Careers of Lights
Chambéry
Geneva
Gruyeres
Leysin
Interlaken
Lucerne
Zurich
Bellinzona
Como
Milan
Pisa
Rome
Florence
Venice
Innsbruck
Salzburg
Lake Traunsee
Vienna
Budapest
Bratislava
Prague
Pilsen
Rothenburg
Frankfurt
Cruise on the Rhine
Cologne
Amsterdam
Bruges
Paris
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Barcelona
Welcome to Barcelona! We will meet you upon arrival to transfer you comfortably to your hotel. Once you've settled in, take advantage of some free time to start exploring this vibrant city at your leisure. It's the perfect opportunity to soak in the local atmosphere or find a charming caf to unwind. In the afternoon, you'll find essential information about your journey on notice boards located at the hotel reception. This will help you prepare for the exciting adventures in the days ahead. Enjoy the start of your memorable journey! 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.
Day 2 - Barcelona - Girona
On the second day of our journey, we begin with a morning tour of Barcelona, often referred to as the City of Counts. This vibrant metropolis, beautifully positioned along the Mediterranean, is celebrated for its stunning modernist architecture by Gaud, lively Las Ramblas, and a rich history marked by events such as the Universal Exposition and the Olympics. Barcelona stands out as one of Europe's most captivating capitals. As the day draws to a close, we set off from Barcelona, heading north into the captivating region of Catalonia. Our next stop is the historic city of Girona, where we'll take a leisurely walk through its charming old town. Here, you can admire the colourful faades of riverside houses, explore the atmospheric Jewish Quarter, and marvel at the impressive cathedral. A day filled with diverse cultural experiences awaits before we retire for the night.
Day 3 - Girona - Carrieres des Lumieres - Chambery
Today, we will travel from Girona into the heart of Provence, France. Our first stop will be the city of Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its association with Vincent van Gogh. This charming city is steeped in history, and we'll have the opportunity to visit its Roman theatre and charming Romanesque churches. There will also be time for you to explore and enjoy lunch at your leisure.After soaking in the cultural delights of Arles, we will proceed to the Carrires des Lumires, an extraordinary underground art space within a former quarry. This immersive experience captivates with its stunning projection of artworks, accompanied by evocative soundscapes. If high demand makes it impossible to secure tickets for this unique show, we will alternatively visit the Pont du Gard, a strikingly preserved Roman aqueduct.As the day draws to a close, we will reach Chambry, the picturesque capital of Savoy known for its medieval charm, historic centre, and grand castle. We will arrive in the evening, allowing you time to savour the atmosphere of this enchanting city.
Day 4 - Chambery - Geneva - Gruyeres - Leysin
Today, we set off for Switzerland, beginning our adventure in the cosmopolitan city of Geneva. Our guided tour brings us to the Palais des Nations, the European headquarters of the United Nations, where well also have the opportunity to admire the beautifully designed English Garden, featuring its iconic flower clock, and to observe the impressive Jet dEau the tallest fountain in Europe.Our journey continues to the picturesque village of Gruyres, celebrated worldwide for its delicious cheese. Nearby, we'll visit the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory, where you can indulge in a delightful chocolate tasting session. As we head further into the heart of Switzerland, we take scenic routes through charming wooden villages nestled amid stunning mountain landscapes, eventually arriving at the enchanting Chillon Castle on the serene shores of Lake Geneva, with admission included.By mid-afternoon, we make our way to the idyllic resort town of Leysin, offering breathtaking views of the Rhne Valley and Mont Blanc. Known for its excellent winter sports and hiking opportunities, youll enjoy the unique charm of this holiday village. Dinner is included here. Please note that, subject to availability, accommodation may be arranged in another equally charming Swiss town nestled in the Alps, such as Martigny.
Day 5 - Leysin - Interlaken - Lucerne - Zurich
Today, prepare yourself for a day surrounded by the breathtaking Swiss Alps. Make sure to dress warmly as we ascend to Glacier 3000 via a scenic cable car journey. Known for its perpetual ice and snow, Glacier 3000 is one of Switzerland's most awe-inspiring locations. Here, you can walk across a suspended bridge connecting two mountain peaks, explore the mesmerising Ice Cathedral, or have fun at the on-site Fun Park. After this exhilarating experience, we'll make our way to Interlaken for lunch, a charming town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Following our stop here, we'll continue our journey to Lucerne, a city that captivates visitors with its picturesque setting by Lake Lucerne and its historical architecture. In the evening, we will arrive in Zurich, where you will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant city centre before we proceed to our hotel for check-in. Please note that if weather conditions or unforeseen events affect the operation of the Glacier 3000 cable car, we will offer an equally stunning alternative to ensure you still enjoy the magnificent alpine landscapes.
Day 6 - Zurich - Bellinzona - Como - Milan
On Day 6, we set off early from Zurich, venturing across the breathtaking Alps to reach the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland. Our first stop is Bellinzona, notable for its trio of medieval castles that have earned UNESCO World Heritage status. These castles, perched on hills overlooking the city, serve as a testament to Bellinzona's historical importance as an alpine stronghold. You'll have some free time to stroll through the charming streets of the city centre.Next, we journey into Italy and arrive in the picturesque town of Como, situated in the heart of Lombardy. Here, you'll find splendid gardens lining the lakefront and an impressive cathedral. We'll pause for lunch, allowing you to soak up the town's beauty. In the afternoon, we continue to Milan, where our guide will lead us to the striking Piazza del Duomo. This vibrant square offers a glimpse into Milan's rich architectural splendour and lively atmosphere. After some time to explore at your own pace, we'll provide a transfer to the hotel for the evening.
Day 7 - Milan - Pisa - Rome
Today, we journey south through Italy to the iconic city of Pisa. Our visit begins with a short ride on a tourist train to the renowned Piazza dei Miracoli, or Square of Miracles. This stunning space is home to one of Italy's most famous sights, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. You'll have time to marvel at this architectural wonder, along with the other historical monuments that make up this remarkable art complex. After this, we continue our travels to Rome, arriving later in the day.
Day 8 - Rome
Begin your day in the Eternal City of Rome with a captivating three-hour guided exploration that unveils the city's enduring legacy. Our journey combines a walking tour of Imperial Rome with a panoramic bus ride, offering a glimpse into one of Western civilization's most significant cities. We'll visit celebrated landmarks such as the Arch of Constantine, the exteriors of the Colosseum and the Imperial Forums, the vast Circus Maximus, the Baths of Caracalla, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the striking Pyramid of Cestius, and the impressive Castel Sant'Angelo. Around 11:00 a.m., our tour will culminate in Vatican City, whereupon our guide will propose an optional visit to delve deeper into the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. As the day draws to a close, we'll escort you to the lively Trastevere area, celebrated for its inviting eateries and vibrant atmosphere. You'll have time to savour this bustling neighbourhood before returning to the hotel around 8:30 p.m.
Day 9 - Rome - Florence
We will depart from Rome, heading north to Florence, enjoying the scenic landscapes along our route. Our first stop in Florence will be the stunning Piazzale Michelangelo, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the city. We'll then transition into a guided walking tour led by a local expert, taking you through Florence's historic centre. Highlights include visits to the iconic Ponte Vecchio, the majestic Duomo, and the lively Piazza della Signoria, all showcasing the city's rich history and architectural marvels. This city is often described as an open-air museum. Following our guided exploration, you'll have free time to delve into the city at your own pace, perhaps indulging in some local cuisine or shopping. As evening falls, you'll find a variety of dining options in Florence's vibrant districts, offering everything from traditional Italian fare to international dishes.
Day 10 - Florence - Venice
Today we'll traverse the stunning Apennine mountain range, offering marvellous views en route to Venice. Upon arrival, we will cross the Giudecca Canal by boat to reach the enchanting island of Venice. Here, with the guidance of a local expert, we'll explore the iconic St. Marks Square, a hub of Venetian life and history. Our adventure continues with a visit to the renowned Murano Glass Factory, where well witness the intricate craftsmanship that goes into creating their famous glassworks. Afterwards, youll have leisure time to delve into the city's winding canals and charming narrow streets at your own pace. Accommodation this evening will be in the Mestre district, providing convenient access to further explore Venices wonders.
Day 11 - Venice - Innsbruck - Salzburg
Today, we will set off from Venice and journey into Austria. Our first destination is Innsbruck, where you'll have the opportunity to stroll through the charming historic centre and enjoy a leisurely lunch in the capital of the Tyrol region, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. After lunch, we will continue our travels along beautiful mountain routes to the picturesque village of Kitzbhel, renowned as a standout ski resort where snow often graces the landscape year-round. You'll have time to explore this quaint village before we press on to our final stop, Salzburg, arriving there by the day's end. Please note that in cases where traveller numbers are low, we may opt for a scenic train journey from Venice to Innsbruck instead.
Day 12 - Salzburg - Lake Traunsee - Vienna
On the twelfth day of our journey, we will delve deeper into Austria, beginning our morning with an exploration of Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart. This city, known for its enchanting Renaissance and Baroque architecture, is dominated by the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress. From there, we'll travel through the scenic Salzkammergut region, renowned for its stunning lakes and mountainous landscapes, to reach St. Wolfgangan esteemed pilgrimage site. Our route continues to Traunkirchen, nestled along the enchanting Traunsee Lake, where well embark on a scenic cruise to admire the lake's four magnificent castles. Disembarking at Gmunden, a picturesque town renowned for its ceramics, we will then proceed to the capital city of Vienna, arriving in the evening.
Day 13 - Vienna
Today we'll embark on a panoramic tour of Vienna, led by a local guide. This city, known for its breathtaking architecture, is home to majestic avenues, stunning palaces, and expansive parks. Vienna's vibrant city centre is a delight to explore, offering an array of cultural and historical landmarks. In the afternoon, you will have the chance to discover the city at your own pace, whether it's wandering through its renowned museums or enjoying a coffee at a traditional Viennese caf. In the evening, we'll take you to the charming district of Grinzing. Once a separate wine-growing village, this area is now part of Vienna and boasts a quaint atmosphere with its traditional taverns. Enjoy some free time here to sample local culinary delights before we conclude the evening.
Day 14 - Vienna - Budapest
Upon our arrival in Budapest, Hungary's vibrant capital, we will head to the bustling Vci utca, offering you an opportunity to enjoy lunch at one of the many eateries. Afterward, we will embark on a captivating journey through Budapest with a scenic boat trip along the Danube River. This excursion will provide you with unparalleled views of the historic Buda on one bank and the cosmopolitan Pest on the other. Following the boat ride, we will delve into a panoramic exploration of Budapest, often heralded as the "Queen of the Danube." After taking in the city's impressive sights, you'll have some leisure time to continue your exploration at your own pace. In the evening, we present an optional outing for those interested in experiencing a traditional Magyar show, complete with dinner.
Day 15 - Budapest - Bratislava - Prague
Departing early from Budapest, our journey takes us to Bratislava, Slovakias capital, nestled along the Danube River. This city boasts a captivating historic centre, offering plenty of charm. You'll have time to explore and enjoy lunch in this inviting setting. Later, we'll continue our travels to the Czech Republic, reaching Prague in the evening. Here, well escort you to the vibrant Old Town Square, an ideal spot to get your first taste of Prague. This lively area is brimming with a wide array of dining options, featuring cuisines from around the globe, including Czech, Chinese, Indian, and Italian. Following a delightful dinner at one of these restaurants, we'll return to the hotel.
Day 16 - Prague
Today, we delve into the heart of Prague, often celebrated as the Baroque jewel of Europe. Accompanied by our knowledgeable local guide, we will embark on a panoramic tour to discover the city's most remarkable monuments. A highlight of our day is a visit to Prague Castle, with its admission included, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Czech history and architecture. Our journey continues with a delightful boat ride on the Vltava River, providing a unique perspective of the city's stunning landscape. In the afternoon, you are free to explore Prague at your own pace, whether it's wandering through its charming streets, visiting its museums, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Day 17 - Prague - Pilsen - Rothenburg - Frankfurt
We will set off from Prague early in the day, making our way to Pilsen in western Bohemia, a city famed for its brewing tradition. Here, you will have the opportunity to wander through the historic centre, where captivating sights such as the Old Town Square, the cathedral, the Plague Column, and a Renaissance-era town hall await exploration. Following this, our journey continues into Germany as we travel along the Romantic Road, leading us to Rothenburg. This town, one of Germanys most picturesque, seems like it has been lifted straight from the pages of a fairy tale. After spending time soaking in Rothenburgs enchanting atmosphere, we will head onwards to Frankfurt, Germanys financial capital. Upon arrival in the evening, you can explore the historic city centre at your leisure, offering a plethora of dining options that span Indian, Asian, Italian, and international cuisines.
Day 18 - Frankfurt - Cruise on the Rhine - Cologne - Amsterdam
On day 18, we embark on a scenic journey along the renowned Rhine River, celebrated for some of its most picturesque stretches. Our cruise takes us from Rdesheim to St. Goar, offering breathtaking views of the river's iconic landscapes, renowned for their natural beauty and historic castles dotting the riverbanks. Following this serene experience, we'll continue our travels to Cologne, a city distinguished by its majestic Gothic cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture. As the day unfolds, we'll make our way to the Netherlands, arriving in the vibrant city of Amsterdam by evening, where the canal-lined streets await your exploration.
Day 19 - Amsterdam
On this day, you'll be treated to the quintessential charm of Holland. Our first destination is Zaanse Schans, a delightful area renowned for its distinctive houses, tranquil canals, and iconic windmills a perfect snapshot of traditional Dutch life. We then venture to Volendam, a picturesque fishing village that offers a glimpse into the maritime heritage of the Netherlands. From there, we'll take a short boat trip to Marken, an area that was once an island and now connects to the mainland via a dike. The unique houses here were originally built on stilts to prevent flooding, adding to its rustic appeal.In the afternoon, we'll return to Amsterdam for a comprehensive guided tour. You'll see the citys highlights, from its symbolic windmills and the statue of Rembrandt, to the sophisticated South District and the historic diamond-cutting industry at Museum Square. The walk through the heart of Amsterdam will leave you free to explore its enchanting canals, vibrant markets, and charming cafs at your leisure. This journey through history and culture will create lasting memories of the Dutch way of life.
Day 20 - Amsterdam - Bruges - Paris
Today, we depart from Amsterdam and head to Bruges, a city often regarded as the "Venice of the North" due to its enchanting canals. This medieval gem is renowned for its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and picturesque bridges, which together create a truly magical ambiance. If you wish, you can climb the Belfry Tower for panoramic views over the city. Take the opportunity to indulge in some of the finest Belgian chocolate or savour a local craft beer while exploring the charming surroundings. After our delightful stop in Bruges, we continue our journey to Paris, where we will arrive by the end of the day.
Day 21 - Paris
Today, we delve into the cultural and historical grandeur of France with a visit to the illustrious Palace of Versailles. This iconic landmark is celebrated for its expansive and beautifully manicured gardensthough admission is not included, the view alone is captivating. After exploring Versailles, we'll return to Paris, where we will head to the enchanting neighbourhood of Montmartre. Known for its bohemian flair, Montmartre has long been a haven for artists, boasting charming streets filled with painters, artists, and the vibrant legacy of cabarets. To truly grasp the magnificent spectacle that is Paris, we will embark on a panoramic tour guided by a local expert, discovering the city's grand avenues and iconic landmarks. Following the tour, we'll head back to the hotel. For those looking to extend the day's enchantment, there's an opportunity to attend an optional variety show in the evening, offering a taste of Parisian nightlife in its finest form.
Day 22 - Paris
Our final day in the enchanting city of Paris promises a mix of iconic sights and leisure. We'll begin with a visit to the renowned Eiffel Tower, where you'll have the opportunity to ascend to the second floor and take in panoramic views of the city (admission included). Following this, we will embark on a serene hour-and-a-quarter boat cruise along the Seine, offering captivating views of Paris from the water. The afternoon is yours to explore the city's attractions on your own terms, allowing you to delve into the charming streets and hidden gems at your own pace. Please bear in mind that transport back to the hotel is not included. Be mindful of your flight schedule in case an additional night's stay is required. Our journey may be concluding, but we hope you leave with a treasure trove of unforgettable memories of your adventure.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.
Post-Tour Accommodation - Paris
Triple
Double
Twin
Single
Pre-Tour Accommodation - Barcelona
Triple
Double
Twin
Single
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Confirmation of the hotels used may not be available until 48 hours before the tour departs.
If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with another solo traveller of the same sex in a twin room - a single room will be provided at no additional cost if there are no suitable travellers to share with.
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