Grand Europe Adventure Madrid to Vienna

Welcome to Madrid! Once you arrive at the airport, we'll arrange your transfer to the hotel, where you'll have some leisure time before our adventure begins. Be sure to check the information signs in the hotel's reception area for details about our welcome meeting an opportunity to meet your guide and fellow travellers. As evening falls, we'll whisk you away to Plaza Mayor and the bustling La Latina, a vibrant neighbourhood renowned for its nightlife and tempting tapas restaurants. You have the freedom to choose where to dine, with options ranging from Indian and Chinese to traditional Spanish and Middle Eastern cuisines. 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.

Our day begins with an immersive tour of central Madrid, where well explore notable landmarks such as Paseo del Prado, Cibeles, Neptuno, Puerta de Alcal, Plaza de Coln, and the historic Plaza Mayor. Next, well visit Retiro Parka tranquil haven in the heart of the city renowned for its picturesque lake and the stunning Palacio de Cristal. Our itinerary includes entrance to Santiago Bernabu Stadium, the iconic home of Real Madrid, celebrated as one of the finest football clubs worldwide. The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish. Later in the evening, well transport you back to your hotel.

On the morning of our third day, we will depart Madrid, travelling through the scenic landscapes of Castile on our way to Aragon. Our first stop will be in Zaragoza, where well admire the magnificent Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillaran impressive architectural masterpiece that holds great spiritual significance. From there, we will continue our journey to the peaceful Poblet Abbey, one of the world's best-preserved medieval monasteries, with tickets included for your seamless visit. Our day will conclude with an evening arrival in the vibrant city of Barcelona, where the excitement and charm await us.

In the morning, we'll set off to explore Barcelona, often referred to as the City of Counts. This vibrant metropolis, set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, is distinguished by its modernist architecture from Gaud, lively Ramblas, and rich historical narrative marked by events such as the Universal Exposition and the Olympics held here. By evening, we will depart Barcelona and travel north into the heart of Catalonia. Before retiring for the night, well enjoy a stroll through Girona's historic centre, taking in its colourful houses, the ancient Jewish quarter, and the citys magnificent cathedral.

On Day 5, we journey into France, traversing the enchanting region of Provence. Our first stop is Arles, a quaint city with UNESCO World Heritage status due to its significant Roman monuments. Here, you can explore the ancient Roman theatre and charming Romanesque churches, as well as enjoy a leisurely lunch. Following Arles, our itinerary includes a visit to the mesmerising Carrires des Lumires. This unique underground art exhibition presents a fantastic interplay of images, sound, and light within an ancient quarry, offering an unforgettable visual experience. If tickets for this show are unavailable, we will alternatively visit the magnificent Pont du Gard, an iconic Roman aqueduct. As the day draws to a close, well arrive in Chambry. This delightful city, nestled in the heart of Savoy, is famed for its medieval charm, rich history, and stunning architecture, including its grand castle, which you may explore during your evening.

Well set off for Switzerland today, with our first destination being the city of Geneva. Here, we will visit the Palais des Nations, the European headquarters of the United Nations. We'll also stroll through the splendid English Garden to view its iconic flower clock, and admire the Jet dEau, the tallest fountain in Europe. Our journey continues to the enchanting, fortified village of Gruyres, globally celebrated for its cheese. Nearby, youll find some of Switzerland's foremost chocolate factories, including the famous Maison Cailler. Admission to the chocolate factory is included, where you'll indulge in a delightful tasting experience. Continuing along scenic routes, we'll pass through idyllic mountain landscapes and charming wooden villages before reaching Chillon Castle on the shores of Lake Geneva, with entry included. By mid-afternoon, we will arrive in Leysin, a picturesque holiday village offering breathtaking views of the Rhne Valley and Mont Blanc. Known for its winter sports and hiking opportunities, well enjoy an included dinner here. Please note that accommodation may occasionally be arranged in another delightful Swiss village in the Alps, such as Martigny, subject to availability.

Today promises breathtaking alpine vistas, so be sure to pack your warm clothing. Our adventure begins with a cable car ride to Glacier 3000, one of Switzerland's most spectacular sites, offering stunning views of ice and snow all year round. You'll have the chance to walk across a bridge suspended between two peaks, explore the awe-inspiring Ice Cathedral, and enjoy the thrilling Fun Park. After this, we'll make a stop in Interlaken for lunch, a charming town nestled between lakes and mountains. Continuing our journey, we proceed to Lucerne, celebrated as one of Switzerlands most picturesque cities. In the evening, we reach Zurich, where you'll have some time to explore the city centre before we head to the hotel. Please note, if the Glacier 3000 cable car is closed due to weather or other circumstances, we will provide an equally stunning alternative to ensure you still enjoy the magnificent alpine scenery.

We depart Zurich early in the morning and make our way across the majestic Alps, entering the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland. Our first destination is Bellinzona, where you will find three stunning medieval castles that have earned UNESCO World Heritage status. These fortresses, strategically positioned on the hills, are a testament to Bellinzona's historical importance as an alpine stronghold. Here, you'll have some free time to explore the charming streets and perhaps dive into the local culture.Afterwards, we cross into Italy and head to the picturesque town of Como for a lunch break. Como is a gem of Lombardy, celebrated for its enchanting lakefront gardens and a magnificent cathedral. Following lunch, we continue our journey to Milan. Upon arrival, our guide will lead us to the impressive Piazza del Duomo, where you'll have time to appreciate the vibrant surroundings at your leisure before we head to the hotel for the evening.

Today, we'll continue our adventure by heading to the iconic city of Pisa. A unique experience awaits as we'll board a small tourist train to explore the Piazza dei Miracoli, renowned for its magnificent collection of artistic marvels. Here, youll have the opportunity to admire one of Italy's most captivating architectural ensembles, including the famed Leaning Tower of Pisaan impressive testament to medieval European architecture. After soaking in the splendour of this historic site, well make our way to Rome, arriving in the evening. This journey promises both the allure of cultural discovery and the anticipation of new experiences in Italy's capital.

On our tenth day, we will immerse ourselves in the rich history of Rome with a three-hour panoramic tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. This journey will blend a comfortable bus ride with a walking segment through parts of Imperial Rome. We will admire the impressive Arch of Constantine and the Colosseum's external grandeur, among other highlights. Our tour continues past some of the city's iconic landmarks, including the Circus Maximus, the Baths of Caracalla, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the Pyramid of Cestius, and the imposing Castel SantAngelo viewed from the outside. The tour concludes in Vatican City around 11:00 a.m., a significant site for the Catholic Church and an independent state within Rome. Here, you may choose to join an optional visit to delve more deeply into the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. The afternoon is yours to explore as you wish. In the evening, we'll take you to the lively Trastevere district, known for its inviting restaurants and vibrant atmosphere. We will return to the hotel around 8:30 p.m.

Today, we bid farewell to Rome and set off towards the north, traversing the picturesque Italian countryside. Our first stop in Florence is at the captivating Piazzale Michelangelo, renowned for offering panoramic views of the city's iconic skyline. From here, we embark on a leisurely stroll to the historic heart of Florence. After pausing for lunch, join us for a guided walking tour led by a local expert. Together, we'll explore renowned landmarks, including the elegant Ponte Vecchio, the majestic Duomo, and the bustling Piazza della Signoria. The city itself is a masterpiece, resembling an open-air museum. Once our tour concludes, youll have the rest of the time to wander about at your own pace. As evening arrives, youll find a plethora of dining options in the area, with restaurants serving a wide variety of international cuisines for you to enjoy.

Today, we venture across the enchanting Apennine mountains, offering a picturesque start to our journey from Florence to Venice. Upon arrival, we'll embark on a memorable boat ride across the Giudecca Canal, taking us to the heart of the iconic Island of Venice. Accompanied by our knowledgeable local guide, well explore the renowned St. Mark's Square, immersing ourselves in its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Following this, we'll discover the art of Murano glassmaking at a local factory, where you can witness the intricate techniques behind these stunning glassworks. The rest of the day is yours to roam the winding alleyways and canals of this magical city at your own pace. Well be staying in the Mestre district, providing convenient access to all that Venice has to offer.

Today, we travel from Venice into the heart of Austria. Our first stop is Innsbruck, the charming capital of the Austrian Tyrol. You'll have some free time to explore the historic city centre, famous for its vibrant buildings and the Golden Roof, an iconic landmark. It's the perfect opportunity to savour an Austrian lunch amidst the alpine atmosphere.Afterwards, we'll continue our scenic journey through the breathtaking Austrian mountains, making our way to Kitzbhel. Known for its beauty and world-class ski resorts, this picturesque village offers captivating views, with snow often surrounding us for most of the year. You'll have time to wander the quaint streets, soaking up the idyllic alpine scenery.We finish the day by travelling onward to Salzburg, arriving by late evening. Note: Should our group consist of fewer travellers, we may journey by train from Venice to Innsbruck.

We begin our day in Salzburg, celebrated as the city of Mozart. As we explore, the city's Renaissance and Baroque charm unfolds beneath the imposing views of the castle. From here, our journey continues through the picturesque landscapes of Austria, taking us to the serene St. Wolfgang, an esteemed pilgrimage destination. Next, we reach Traunkirchen, nestled beside the shimmering Lake Traunsee. Here, well embark on a delightful lake cruise, tracing the shores and admiring the lakes four magnificent castles, before arriving in Gmunden. Our day concludes with a drive to Vienna, where we will settle in for the evening.

On our fifteenth day, we'll immerse ourselves in the splendour of Vienna with a panoramic tour led by a local guide. We'll traverse Vienna's grand avenues, admire its stunning palaces, and wander through its expansive parks, experiencing the vibrant energy of the city centre. Come afternoon, the choice is yours to delve deeper into the city's charms at your leisure. In the evening, we'll provide a transfer to Grinzing, a quaint former wine-growing village now part of the city. Known for its traditional taverns, it offers an inviting atmosphere to enjoy an evening meal.

As our journey concludes today, start your morning with a leisurely breakfast in Vienna. Reflect on the remarkable experiences we've shared, from the charming streets of Spain to the historic grandeur of Italy and the picturesque landscapes of Austria. Bid farewell with lasting memories of vibrant cultures, stunning architecture, and delightful cuisines. Safe travels on the next leg of your adventure or back home.