Europe Explorer
Europe Explorer
Europe Explorer
18 Days Starting and ending in Hotel in Amsterdam
Visiting: Amsterdam, Ghent, Paris, Toulouse, Andorra, Barcelona, Sète, Pont du Gard, Avignon, Monaco, Nice, Pisa, Florence, Tuscany, Rome, Siena, Venice, Lucerne, Swiss Alps, Black Forest, Rhine Valley
Tour operator:
Tour code:
EX
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 51
Age range:
10-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Discover the best destinations in Europe on this unmissable 18-day tour! Travel to iconic countries like France, Spain, Switzerland and more in just over two weeks. Experience classic European attractions across glittering Paris, ancient Rome and tantalising Tuscany. Feel the sun on your skin along the French Riviera and marvel at GaudÃ’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Admire breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and take in the fairytale splendour of Germany’s Black Forest. Embark on cruises of the Rhine River, Amsterdam canals and Venice waterways. This is a truly unforgettable European exploration!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Amsterdam- Ghent - Paris
Location: Amsterdam, Ghent, Paris
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to the first day of this unforgettable tour of Europe! This morning, meet up with your tour leader and new travel companions at the hotel in Amsterdam. Then, set off towards today's first stop in Ghent, Belgium. Discover the city at leisure and find a lovely lunch spot during your free time this afternoon. Upon arrival in Paris this evening, embark on an enchanting orientation tour of the iconic "City of Lights". Admire the city's top attractions, including the Arc de Triomphe, the River Seine and the Eiffel Tower! Tonight, enjoy a delicious Parisian group dinner.
Visit Ghent, one of Belgium's oldest cities
See the sights on a driving tour of Paris
Day 2: Paris: Free Day
Location: Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day to explore more of Paris! Embark on today's optional excursions for the ultimate Parisian experience. Join Paris+ for spectacular sightseeing, a macaron tasting at Ladurée, a guided tour of the renowned Fragonard Musée du Parfum and a cruise along the River Seine. Then, the excursion heads up Montparnasse for the most striking panoramic views of Paris. Conclude the excursion with free time in the Latin Quarter. Tonight, experience an optional cabaret show or, alternatively, join the optional evening in Montmartre to see the famous Moulin Rouge and enjoy a three-course French feast!
Day 3: Paris - Toulouse
Location: Paris, Toulouse
Journey from Paris to Toulouse today and enjoy a stop in a small medieval town en route for a wine tasting! Marvel at the views of meandering crops, fantastical forests, lush landscapes and picturesque towns along the road. Explore some of the robust red wines from the region at the wine tasting. Next, head to the fourth biggest city in France, Toulouse! Upon arrival, embark on an orientation tour. Marvel at this gem along the Compostela Pilgrimage route known for its stunning Renaissance architecture and home to an incredible 17th-century canal. This evening, enjoy an included local dinner.
Taste local French wine in Toulouse
Explore Toulouse with a local guide
Day 4: Toulouse - Andorra - Barcelona
Location: Toulouse, Andorra, Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, bid Toulouseadieuas the tour continues south and crosses the northern border into Andorra. After finding a lunch spot, continue on towards Barcelona. The tour's next stop is the capital of the Catalonia region in Spain. Discover Barcelona's famous art and architecture, including the famous Sagrada FamÃlia church and more of Antoni GaudÃ's designs. Enjoy a driving tour visiting some of the top attractions in the city!
Visit Andorra; one of Europe’s smallest countries
Embark on a driving tour of Barcelona city
Day 5: Barcelona: Free Day
Location: Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend today's free time exploring at leisure! For the ultimate Barcelona experience, join the Highlights of Barcelona featuring the Sagrada FamÃlia optional excursion. Marvel at the La Sagrada FamÃlia masterpiece that is yet to be completed and admire the idyllic Palau Güell. Next, head to La Boqueria, one of the most popular food markets in Barcelona, and embark on a tour through the historic Gothic Quarter of Barrio Gótico. Otherwise, enjoy a relaxing day to explore, shop and soak up the sun on the beach. Tonight, join the Flamenco Show optional excursion for a buffet dinner and unlimited drinks!
Day 6: Barcelona - Sète - Pont Du Gard - Avignon
Location: Barcelona, Sète, Pont du Gard, Avignon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Say goodbye to Barcelona and journey towards Avignon. Enjoy a stop in Sète on the way. Explore this French port town and its popular canals on an orientation walk before picking a place for lunch. Then, head to Pont du Gard, a centuries-old Roman aqueduct bridge used in the first century AD for transporting water to the Nemausus Roman colony. Next, journey to Avignon in the heart of Provence which used to be the epicentre of the Roman Catholic world. Tonight, choose to join the Evening in Avignon, including a three-course meal and drinks. Embark on a tour through town to explore the impressive sights, including Palais des Papes!
Visit Sète in the South of France
Visit the Pont du Gard; an ancient Roman aqueduct
Orientation walking tour of Avignon
Day 7: Avignon - Monaco - Nice
Location: Avignon, Monaco, Nice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, take advantage of the opportunity to experience a highlight of this tour and France trips in general! Leave Avignon behind in exchange for French Riviera views en route to Nice. Then, journey to one of the world's most dazzling destinations. After arriving in Monaco this afternoon, enjoy time to explore with your tour leader. Admire must-see attractions like the Prince's Palace, Oceanography Museum, Cathedral of Monaco and the Casino de Monte-Carlo. Later, visit the French village of Eze and enjoy a workshop at the Fragonard perfume factory! Arrive in Nice and embark on an orientation tour of this stunning city’s top attractions, including the Promenade des Anglais.
Scenic French Riviera drive
Visit Nice; a gorgeous French coastal city
Enjoy a perfume workshop in Eze
Experience the glitz and glamour of Monaco
Day 8: Pisa - Florence - Southern Tuscany
Location: Pisa, Florence, Tuscany
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, travel inland towards Italy. Be sure your cameras are charged and ready to capture the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa on a visit! Then, head to Florence. Embark on a walking city tour and learn more about the history of the city. Behold the landmarks that date back to the Renaissance and even as far as Roman times. Visit the Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, the Basilica of Santa Croce, the Florence Baptistry and Michelangelo’s David replica in the Palazzo della Signoria. After, why not enjoy an optional family-style meal of delicious Tuscan dishes? Thereafter, journey to the southern Tuscan hills where the tour touches down for the evening.
See the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
Discover Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance
Day 9: Southern Tuscany - Rome
Location: Tuscany, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Head to the country's capital today. Upon arrival in Rome, enjoy a guided walking tour of the city and its incredible history, including its time as the focal point of the Roman Empire. Marvel at the must-see attractions, including the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. This evening, settle in for an included group dinner.
Explore Rome with a local guide
Day 10: Rome: Free Day
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend today's free time exploring everything you wish! Rome has a lot to discover, including ancient ruins, historical landmarks, religious buildings and a vibrant atmosphere! Be sure to visit the iconic Colosseum to marvel at its stunning city views and be transported back to a time of gladiators, chariots and lions filling the arena. Also, pay a visit to the Vatican City, the world's smallest country and seat of the Pope. Once inside, marvel at the museums, see the Sistine Chapel and take in the splendour of the ornate buildings. The choice is yours!
Day 11: Siena - Venice
Location: Siena, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
The Tuscan town of Siena is today's first stop. Known for its delectable cuisine, fine wine, impressive art and medieval cityscape, Siena is also where the bi-annual Palio horse race is held. Next, travel through Italy towards Venice. This city is an icon of literature, film and art and is sure to captivate any visitor! From the age-old waterways and the masterful artworks to the fantastic food and rich culture, the "Floating City" of Venice is a masterpiece to explore. This evening, enjoy free time to unwind at the hotel or choose to join the optional water taxi cruise along the Venetian canals.
Visit Siena in the Tuscan countryside
Day 12: Venice: Free Day
Location: Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a full free day to discover this memorable city at leisure. For the ultimate Venice experience, join the optional gondola ride! Then, experience more of the city's top attractions on the optional lagoon trip to the colourful islands of Murano and Burano. Here, enjoy glass-blowing and lace-making demonstrations as well as views of the vibrant houses! To experience an unforgettable day in Venice, join both of today's excursions!
Experience the magic of Venice
Day 13: Venice - Lucerne - Swiss Alps
Location: Venice, Lucerne, Swiss Alps
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Next up on this unforgettable trip is the Swiss Alps after crossing into Switzerland. En route to the evening's hotel, stop in the stunning Swiss city of Lucerne. Upon arrival, head out for an orientation tour before exploring with some free time. As the coach continues the climb to this evening's accommodation in the classic Swiss mountain region of Jungfrau, take in the breathtaking alpine views! This renowned destination serves as the perfect introduction to the magical Swiss mountains. This evening, enjoy an included dinner with the tour group and rest up for another exciting day of alpine exploration!
Visit Lucerne, a picturesque Swiss city
Admire the views on a scenic Swiss mountain drive
Day 14: Swiss Alps: Free Day
Location: Swiss Alps
Meals Included: Breakfast
The Swiss Alps and all its splendour awaits today! The options are endless. Embark on the journey to the top of Europe by joining the Jungfraujoch optional excursion, heading all the way up to Europe's highest train station for a host of unmissable experiences! Marvel at the year-round views of impressive glaciers and snowy mountaintops, and visit the Ice Palace for plenty of photo opportunities. Back at lower altitudes, choose to join this evening's optional Swiss Fondue Dinner.
Day 15: Swiss Alps - Black Forest
Location: Swiss Alps, Black Forest
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Leave the magical alpine views behind today as the journey continues to Germany. Marvel at the magnificent views as the coach departs Interlaken and heads towards the enchanting German Black Forest. The picturesque towns and impressive landscapes are truly something to behold! Stop at Lake Titisee for pictures and visit Triberg to pick a lunch spot. Behold the biggest cuckoo clock in the world before enjoying free time to explore Freudenstadt and its stunning market square upon arrival. This evening, rest up at the hotel in the Black Forest region and enjoy an included group dinner.
Enjoy a picturesque drive through the Black Forest region
Enjoy a photo stop at Lake Titisee
Visit Triberg, a pretty Black Forest town
See the world’s largest cuckoo clock
Day 16: Black Forest - Rhine Valley - Amsterdam
Location: Black Forest, Rhine Valley, Amsterdam
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey towards the heart of Germany's Rhine Valley today. Enjoy a stop in Saint Goar and embark on a cruise vessel ride to Boppard with incredible scenery along the river. Marvel at the vibrant vineyards, captivating castles, impressive towers and lush forest along the riverbanks. Then, get a true taste of the Rhine Valley with a wine-tasting experience, including famous varietals like Riesling and Gewürztraminer. Finally, journey to the lively city of Amsterdam for an included group dinner. Enjoy the rest of the evening exploring Amsterdam at leisure.
Sail along the Rhine River
Enjoy a Rhine Valley wine tasting
Day 17: Amsterdam: Free Day
Location: Amsterdam
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin the day with an Amsterdam canal cruise! Enjoy this unique and memorable way to discover the city. For the rest of the day, explore Amsterdam as you wish! There are a variety of iconic experiences, such as visiting famous museums, going on a bike ride, relaxing at local cafes and strolling down the charming canals. Or, join the optional Dutch countryside tour and visit a nearby fishing village, Volendam, see the historic windmills of Zaanse Schans and enjoy demonstrations at a local cheese farm and clog factory. This evening, choose to join the Dutch Pancake Soiree for a memorable farewell.
Cruise the canals of Amsterdam
Day 18: End Of Tour In Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, the tour comes to a conclusion after 18 memorable days of exploring Europe. Have one last breakfast with your Europe Explorer family in Amsterdam. Before parting ways, remember to exchange contact details if you'd like to keep in touch or share travel memories and photos. Until we meet you on the European roads again!
What's Included
-
Accommodation
17 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability) -
Transport
Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days) -
Meals
17 Breakfasts, 7 Dinners
*Vegetarian options available for all meals on request -
Tour Leader
Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details
What's Not Included
International flightsTravel to the start point and from the end point is not included. We recommend using Skyscanner to find the best deals on international flights.Travel insuranceFor a relatively small price, travel insurance provides you with peace of mind so that you can enjoy your tour without any worries.
All passengers travelling on an Expat Explore tour are required to have valid travel insurance cover and you are responsible for arranging your own insurance.
Mode of Transport
Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)
Accommodation
17 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)
Traveller Comfort - *COACH* tours
We welcome all travellers on our tours but we would like to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. In light of this, please ensure that you are happy with the below information and level of fitness required.
Expat Explore tries to be as accommodating as possible, however, our tours are unfortunately not designed for people travelling with wheelchairs or severe mobility issues.
Our tours are fast paced because they are designed for you to see the most a destination has to offer. We also want to ensure that you explore as much as possible, which may require long periods without stops on the coach as we drive to a new destination.
We offer walking tours in most cities (up to 3 hours), and a wheelchair is not always a practical option as there are often cobbled streets and stairs on these tours.
For travellers in wheelchairs, you will only be able to store your wheelchair under the coach with the other luggage. Thus, on the long drives between cities you will not necessarily have access to your wheelchair if we make a quick bathroom stop along the way. Please note that travelling with a wheelchair could prove difficult as our coaches don't have wheelchair lifts, as such you will need to be able to board and alight the coach on your own.
With regards to our accommodation, not all hotels have lifts and this means potentially having to carry bags up and down stairs.
For more information regarding traveller fitness please see our Terms and Conditions.
Experiences
Visit Ghent, one of Belgium's oldest cities
See the sights on a driving tour of Paris
Taste local French wine in Toulouse
Explore Toulouse with a local guide
Visit Andorra; one of Europe’s smallest countries
Embark on a driving tour of Barcelona city
Visit Sète in the South of France
Visit the Pont du Gard; an ancient Roman aqueduct
Orientation walking tour of Avignon
Scenic French Riviera drive
Visit Nice; a gorgeous French coastal city
Enjoy a perfume workshop in Eze
Experience the glitz and glamour of Monaco
See the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
Discover Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance
Explore Rome with a local guide
Visit Siena in the Tuscan countryside
Experience the magic of Venice
Visit Lucerne, a picturesque Swiss city
Admire the views on a scenic Swiss mountain drive
Enjoy a picturesque drive through the Black Forest region
Enjoy a photo stop at Lake Titisee
Visit Triberg, a pretty Black Forest town
See the world’s largest cuckoo clock
Sail along the Rhine River
Enjoy a Rhine Valley wine tasting
Cruise the canals of Amsterdam
Check out our Q&As
-
What is the tipping policy?
Whilst we fully understand that some nationalities are not accustomed to tipping, this is a normal part of the culture in many of the countries we visit. Tipping has become an increasingly accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants, bars and taxis worldwide. Expat Explore crew members
-
Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
All of the hotels on this tour offer Wi-Fi, which is available free of charge as part of your Expat Explore tour.
-
Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our customer services team. Please note that the room provided may be a single room with a single bed.
-
Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees are not included.
-
Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Our travelers come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests.
-
Are flights included in this tour?
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting destination for the first day of your tour. Make sure you keep departure times and possible delays in mind when booking flights.
-
Are vaccinations required for this tour?
We are committed to curating excellent travel experiences and to do so we need all of our travelers to feel safe.
In order to ensure the peace of mind and safety of our travelers and staff on board the coach, we are still requesting that all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status, produce a negative Covid test. This test can be a PCR test -
Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Certain nationalities may require a visa(s) for this tour.
-
Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes, Full air-conditioning
-
Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting point for the first day of your tour. Please see the meeting point information for details on how to reach the meeting point.
-
Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Due to weight and space limitations, you are allowed to bring one main piece of luggage weighing no more than 20kg, and one small soft bag for hand luggage weighing a maximum of 7kg. On all tours, you will have to carry your own luggage (e.g. into hotels and up to your room if hotels don’t have elevators). Please bear this in mind when you are deciding what to pack
-
Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
A full list of confirmed accommodation names and addresses for your particular departure will be emailed to you around 1 week before the tour starts.
-
Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No, visas are each traveler’s personal responsibility, and we recommend that plenty of time is allowed for visas to be applied for. When applying for your visa, please ensure that the proper research is carried out before you apply, and that you deal directly with the embassies or certified agents with regard to acquiring correct and timely information. We cannot take responsibility for customers
-
What is the maximum group size?
It depends on how many other people book! There could be up to 51 other passengers, so you will have the opportunity to make lots of friends!
-
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
All travellers are required to carry their own bags, get on and off the coach, and use public transport. Our city walking tours can last up to 3 hours and certain places involve walking up and down lots of steps. We want you to enjoy your tour, so read through the itinerary thoroughly and make your own conclusions as to whether you feel that you are fit and healthy enough.
-
Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
Yes, As detailed in the itinerary
-
Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Our tours are not suitable for young children, so we set a minimum age limit of 10 years old.
-
Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
Our tour leaders come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests. They are all confident and well-travelled with an in-depth knowledge of the destinations they are working in, and a passion for helping you make the most out of your Expat Explore tour.
-
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
All our tours are conducted in English.
-
What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
We have searched and invested in excellent accommodation options, either located in cities or well placed with public transport connections. Clean linen, towels is always included. Toiletries (shampoo, shower gel etc) and hair dryers are not always included, so you may wish to bring these with you. Accommodation is provided in twin share en-suite rooms. We use a mix of mostly 2, 3 & 4-star hotels.
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
If you are travelling alone there is no compulsory charge - you will share a twin room with another passenger of the same gender. There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our team.
-
Children on tour?
Our tours are not suitable for young children which is why we have a minimum age limit of 10 years old. However, at the discretion of Expat Explore we may consider younger children on certain tours if they meet certain criteria and a request is received in writing via email. Minors (between 10 and 18 years of age) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who accepts full responsibility for them. Unaccompanied minors will not be accepted on tour. Expat Explore reserves the right to decline any booking at our discretion. Any minor (between 10 and 18 years of age) is priced the same as an adult.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
The health and safety of our travellers and employees are our top priority. Which means, when you travel with us, our enhanced hygiene protocols will ensure you do so in a safe and responsible way - ask for details of current policies.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2005
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
At Expat Explore we value responsible travel and are committed to exploring the world consciously and kindly. We are proud to make responsible travel possible with a number of our sustainable travel practices!
-
Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Relate is a South African based not-for-profit organisation that Expat Explore supports. The group aims to help those less fortunate create better lives for themselves through a variety of fundraising initiatives. On our South Africa tours, each passenger will receive an Expat Explore branded Relate bracelet. We donate the cost of these bracelets to our chosen Relate charity: the Nelson Mandela Sc
Reviews of this operator
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.1 Select your preferred date
Tuesday - Friday
Apr 01, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025Tuesday - Friday
Apr 22, 2025 - May 09, 2025Tuesday - Friday
May 13, 2025 - May 30, 2025Tuesday - Friday
Jun 03, 2025 - Jun 20, 2025Tuesday - Friday
Jun 24, 2025 - Jul 11, 2025Tuesday - Friday
Jul 15, 2025 - Aug 01, 2025Tuesday - Friday
Aug 05, 2025 - Aug 22, 2025Tuesday - Friday
Aug 26, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025Tuesday - Friday
Sep 16, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025Wednesday - Saturday
Apr 08, 2026 - Apr 25, 2026Wednesday - Saturday
Apr 29, 2026 - May 16, 2026What are travellers saying about Tourhub
Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
Expat Explore Travel allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 91 days before the start of the tour.
-
Low Deposit
Expat Explore Travel requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of expat explore travel charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.
At 44 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Why book with tourhub?
Safe & Secure
Your money is held in a dedicated client account until you travel.
100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.
The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.
Guaranteed Best Value
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.
(Operator terms may apply)
Expert Knowledge
Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.
Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.
Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.
Trusted Service
Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.
Don't just take our word for it...
"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."