Grand European Odyssey History & Culture Extravaganza

Welcome to Madrid! Upon your arrival at the airport, we will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel. You'll have some free time to relax until the tour officially starts. Be sure to check the information boards in the hotel reception for details about your welcome meeting with both your guide and fellow travellers. In the evening, we will provide a transfer service to Plaza Mayor and the vibrant neighbourhood of La Latina, renowned for its nightlife and enticing tapas restaurants. You have the freedom to select a dining option that suits your palate, with choices ranging from Indian and Chinese to 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.

Today, we begin with an extensive tour of central Madrid, showcasing some of the city's most iconic landmarks. We'll explore the distinguished Paseo del Prado, the majestic Cibeles and Neptuno fountains, the historical Puerta de Alcal, and the vibrant Plaza de Coln, concluding with a visit to the bustling Plaza Mayor. Our tour continues with a leisurely stroll through Retiro Park, a serene escape in the heart of Madrid, where we'll encounter its picturesque lake and marvel at the elegant Palacio de Cristal. The morning's activities include a visit to the renowned Santiago Bernabu Stadium, the lauded home of Real Madrid. After filling the morning with these sights, the afternoon is yours to enjoy as you please. As the day winds down, we'll arrange a convenient transfer back to your hotel in the evening.

We set off in the morning towards the historic region of Aragon, travelling through the picturesque landscapes of Castile. Our first stop is in Zaragoza, where you'll have the opportunity to admire the remarkable Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. Continuing our journey, we arrive at Poblet Abbey, one of the most well-preserved medieval monasteries in the world, where your entrance is included. We conclude our day by travelling to Barcelona, reaching this vibrant city in the evening.

We will start our day in Barcelona with a panoramic tour of this captivating city, celebrated for its unique blend of modernist architecture and historical charm. As one of Europe's most intriguing capitals, Barcelona offers a glimpse into its vibrant cultural tapestry, set against the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea. Notably, the city has hosted significant events such as the Universal Exposition and the Olympics. In the afternoon, you will have some free time to immerse yourself further in Barcelona's lively atmosphere, perhaps strolling along the famous Ramblas or exploring Gaud's masterpieces. In the evening, we'll arrange a transfer to the seaside location of Maremagnum, a modern complex featuring an array of dining and entertainment options. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely evening stroll and savour dinner from a variety of international cuisines amidst a lively, waterfront setting.

On the fifth day of our journey, well arrange your transfer to the station for a high-speed train ride from Barcelona to Paris. This relaxing journey, taking just over six hours, is included as part of your trip. Upon your arrival in Paris, another transfer will whisk you to your hotel, where you'll settle in and relax. Your guide will make contact in the evening, or you can simply check the hotel receptions information signs for details on any activities or updates. Please note that the train ride will be an independent journey without a guide accompanying you.

On the sixth day of our journey, we delve into the rich tapestry of French history with a visit to the grand Palace of Versailles, though entrance is not included. Renowned for its spectacular gardens, the palace reflects the opulence and power of France's past. Upon returning to Paris, we head to Montmartre, a delightful bohemian district cherished for its lively atmosphere, where artists and painters ply their trades, mirroring the vibrant cultural scene that once thrived in its cabarets. To truly capture the essence of Paris, we will then embark on a panoramic city tour led by a local guide, giving us a glimpse of the city's magnificent avenues and iconic landmarks. Following our exploration, we will return to the hotel. For those interested in an evening out, there is the option of attending a variety show.

We begin our day in the heart of Paris with a visit to the world-famous Eiffel Tower. You'll have the opportunity to ascend to the second floor of this iconic iron structure, with ticket entry included. Following this, well embark on a leisurely cruise down the Seine River, lasting about an hour and fifteen minutes. The afternoon is yours to explore Paris at your leisure, discovering hidden gems or revisiting favourite spots in this enchanting city please note that the return transfer to the hotel is not included. In the event of long queues at the Eiffel Tower, we may adjust our schedule to ensure you have the best experience possible, possibly rescheduling for another convenient time, potentially on Sunday.

Today, we set off to explore the heart of France as we journey through the enchanting Bourgogne region, famed for its scenic vineyards and top-tier wines. Our first stop is the delightful town of Beaune, nestled in Burgundy. Known for its beautifully flower-adorned streets, this charming locale offers the opportunity to visit its renowned hospice and wine museum. After enjoying free time for lunch and a leisurely walk, we continue to Lyon. Prominent as the capital of Roman Gaul, Lyon is perched beautifully on the banks of the Rhne River and boasts a historic centre that is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. We'll take a ride on the cable car up to the majestic Notre-Dame de Fourvire, where you can soak in stunning vistas of the city. Afterward, you are free to explore Lyon at your own pace. Please note that, on occasion, part of our group may stay overnight in Chambry, a picturesque city near Lyon. These travellers will have the evening journey to Chambry and, come morning, the chance to explore this historic city, known for its captivating medieval centre and striking castle.

Today, we'll traverse the stunning landscapes of Switzerland, making our first stop in Geneva. Here, well catch a glimpse of the Palace of Nations, serve as the European headquarters for the United Nations. In the English Garden, admire the captivating flower clock and the impressive Jet dEau, the tallest fountain in Europe. After lunch, we'll continue our scenic journey along the roads flanked by the sparkling waters of Lake Geneva and Lake Neuchtel. This leg of the trip offers splendid views of vineyards nestled against a mountainous backdrop. Well pause in Neuchtel, providing you with an opportunity to stroll along the lake, explore the charming historical centre, or discover the exquisite 10th-century castle. Our day concludes as we arrive in Zurich towards the late afternoon. Do note, depending on our group size, the journey from Geneva to Zurich might be conducted by train, which would mean overlooking the stop in Neuchtel.

Today, we'll delve into Zurich, Switzerland's largest city, celebrated as a major financial hub and cultural centre. Twice recognised for offering the highest quality of life worldwide, Zurich presents a unique blend of heritage and modernity. Our exploration begins with an enlightening tour led by our guide, providing insight into what makes this city so special. Following this, we'll embark on a nearly two-hour scenic cruise across Lake Zurich. As we glide across the tranquil waters, we'll pause briefly at a few delightful villages, each showcasing the charm of Swiss life by the lake. Our journey concludes in Rapperswil, a captivating village known for its medieval castle and picturesque vistas. Here you can wander and soak in the history and beauty of the surroundings. We'll return to Zurich by train, affording you the opportunity to experience the swift and punctual service of the Swiss railway system. Please note that depending on the group size, transfers to and from the city centre may utilise public transport, providing a genuine taste of local commuting.

Today's journey offers remarkable views of towering mountains and serene lakes, as we explore the picturesque Interlaken region. Our first stop is Grindelwald, where we will pause for a coffee before taking a cable car ride up the mountain. At the top, we will walk along a winding path that leads to a suspended bridge. For those feeling adventurous, crossing the bridge promises breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers. Lunch will be served on the mountain, offering a chance to enjoy the scenery at leisure. Later, we will descend and continue to Lucerne, one of Switzerland's most enchanting cities. Here, you'll have time to discover the charming cityscape at your own pace before we return to Zurich. Please note that the guide will suggest an optional full-day excursion that 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 summit provides awe-inspiring vistas of the glacier and the Alps.

Today, we set off bright and early from Zurich, venturing across the majestic Alps to the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland. Our first destination is Bellinzona, a city famed for its trio of medieval castles all recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Perched above the city, these historic fortresses once served as vital alpine strongholds. Enjoy some leisure time to explore Bellinzonas charming streets.Our next stop takes us across the border into Italy, where we'll pause for lunch in the delightful town of Como. Nestled in Lombardy, Como is renowned for its exquisite lakeside gardens and its impressive cathedral. Later in the day, well continue to Milan, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the magnificent Piazza del Duomo. Take some time to admire this breathtaking square before we transfer you to the hotel for the evening.

Today we will proceed to the charming city of Pisa. Our visit includes a delightful ride on a tourist train to the Piazza dei Miracoli, home to one of Italy's most captivating art complexes. Here, you'll have time to marvel at the world-renowned Leaning Tower of Pisa, an architectural wonder that draws visitors from around the globe. Following this, we will continue to Rome, reaching our destination later in the day.

This morning, we embark on a guided three-hour tour of Rome, famously known as the Eternal City. We'll explore its rich history with a stroll through the historic centre and a panoramic bus ride, highlighting some of Western civilisation's most iconic sites. Our journey includes stops at the imposing Arch of Constantine, a look at the exterior of the Colosseum, and the remarkable Imperial Forums. You'll also see the Circus Maximus, where chariot races once enthralled the public, and the impressive Baths of Caracalla. Our tour continues with visits to the exquisite Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the intriguing Pyramid of Cestius, and the historic Castel Sant'Angelo. The tour concludes at Vatican City around 11:00 a.m., where you'll have the option to visit the renowned Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel with our guide. Later in the day, we'll head to the charming Trastevere neighbourhood. Here, you can savour the local cuisine in its welcoming restaurants and soak up the lively ambience. Our day will wrap up with a return to the hotel around 8:30 p.m.

Well depart Rome, heading north through captivating landscapes toward Florence. Our first stop will be at the breathtaking Piazzale Michelangelo, offering panoramic views of this magnificent city. Following some time to savour the scenery, we'll proceed on foot to the heart of Florence. After a pause for lunch, our local expert will lead a guided walking tour through the historic centre, exploring iconic sites like the Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo, and Piazza della Signoria. Florence is akin to an open-air museum, brimming with remarkable art and architecture. After the guided tour, youre free to wander and uncover more of the citys treasures at your own pace. As evening falls, you'll find a plethora of dining options to choose from, with restaurants offering a delightful mix of international cuisines.

As we transition through the breathtaking Apennines, youll witness the splendid mountain scenery unfold before us. Upon arrival in Venice, we'll cross the Giudecca Canal by boat to reach the enchanting Island of Venice. In St. Marks Square, a local guide will reveal the marvels of this iconic landmark. Following this, we'll visit the Murano Glass Factory to observe age-old glassblowing techniques at work. Youll then have some free time to wander and uncover the city's charms independently. Your accommodation will be in the Mestre district.

Today, we bid farewell to Venice and set off on a journey to Austria. Our first stop is the historic city of Innsbruck. When we arrive, there will be plenty of time for you to explore the enchanting city centre and savour lunch in this renowned Tyrolean metropole, famous for its Habsburg past and vibrant architectural charm. Continuing our adventure, we travel along scenic mountain roads to reach Kitzbhel. This picturesque village is a beloved ski resort known for its stunning scenery and year-round snow activities. You will have some time to discover its inviting streets. Our day concludes in Salzburg, a city steeped in history and music, where we will arrive by the end of the day. Should our group be smaller, our journey from Venice to Innsbruck might be via train, ensuring you still experience the beauty of the Alps.

Today, we delve deeper into the charms of Austria. We begin our day in Salzburg, a city renowned as the birthplace of Mozart. Its splendid Renaissance and Baroque architecture, all watched over by the imposing castle, offers a picturesque start to our day. Our journey continues through stunning landscapes of lakes and mountains until we reach St. Wolfgang, esteemed as a significant pilgrimage destination in Austria. Moving on, we travel to Traunkirchen, nestled on the serene shores of Lake Traunsee. Here, we embark on a delightful cruise, granting us views of four majestic lakeside castles before we disembark in Gmunden. Our final leg takes us to the cultural hub of Vienna, where we arrive in the evening, ready to experience its vibrant allure.

Today, we'll set out on an engaging tour of Vienna, showcasing the city's impressive architecture and vibrant culture with the help of our knowledgeable local guide. We will stroll through its grand avenues, admire its majestic palaces, explore its sprawling parks, and experience the energy of its bustling city centre. In the afternoon, you will have the freedom to explore Vienna at your leisureperhaps delve into its rich history, capture the city's charm through photography, or sample the local cuisine. As the evening draws in, we'll take you to the charming Grinzing district, a former wine village now integrated into the city. This quaint area is famed for its traditional taverns, where you can savour a hearty meal and experience the local hospitality. Enjoy the evening at your own pace, soaking in the delightful atmosphere before returning to the hotel.

Upon our arrival in Budapest, Hungary's vibrant capital, we'll embark on a scenic journey after approximately three hours on the road. Our first port of call is Vci utca, a bustling area where you can enjoy some free time to savour a leisurely lunch amidst its lively atmosphere. Our exploration of Budapest begins with an included boat trip on the majestic Danube River, offering unparalleled views with historic Buda perched on one side and the cosmopolitan allure of Pest on the other. The river's charm truly brings the "Queen of the Danube" to life. After our river journey, we embark on a panoramic tour of this fascinating city. You'll have some free time following the tour to discover more at your own pace. In the evening, consider joining us for an optional Magyar show where a delightful dinner is included, offering a taste of local culture and cuisine.

Departing early from Budapest, we set off for Bratislava, Slovakia's vibrant capital nestled along the Danube. This charming city boasts an enchanting historic centre, perfect for exploring during your free time. You may wish to indulge in a leisurely lunch at one of the local eateries before we continue our journey. Our next destination is the Czech Republic, with an evening arrival in Prague. Upon reaching this picturesque city, we provide a transfer to the Old Town Square. This lively area serves as an ideal introduction to Prague, teeming with energy and offering diverse dining options. Choose from an array of international cuisines, including Czech, Chinese, Indian, and Italian, as you savour dinner in one of the many delightful restaurants. We'll then return to the hotel, ready for tomorrow's adventures in the beautiful city of Prague.

Today, we explore the enchanting capital city of Prague, often hailed as Europe's Baroque masterpiece. Our knowledgeable local guide will lead a captivating panoramic tour, showcasing Prague's most significant landmarks. Highlighting our morning, we'll visit the iconic Prague Castle, with your admission included, providing an insightful glimpse into the city's rich history. Following the tour, we'll embark on a serene boat journey along the Vltava River, offering a different perspective of this beautiful city. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, allowing ample time to delve into Prague's delightful streets, perhaps stumbling upon hidden gems or simply relaxing in one of its charming cafes.

As your time in Prague draws to a close, enjoy a leisurely breakfast while reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and diverse landscapes you've encountered on this journey. With your adventure coming to an end, youll depart with lasting memories from this remarkable exploration of Europe. Safe travels on your onward journey!