Highlights of Europe - Start London, End Paris, Classic Group, Summer
Highlights of Europe - Start London, End Paris, Classic Group, Summer
$6420
Highlights of Europe - Start London, End Paris, Classic Group, Summer
15 Days Starting in London and ending in Paris
Visiting: London, Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Neuschwanstein Castle, Innsbruck, Veneto, Venice, Rome, Vatican, Florence, Baveno, Stanserhorn, Lucerne, Paris
Tour operator:
Tour code:
E933ZN20
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
20 - 40
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Experience the best Europe has to offer. Travel from London to Europe on the high-speed Eurostar train. Cruise along the quaint canals in Amsterdam, and travel from Austria, across the Dolomites into Italy. Join a local home dinner in Rome where your host serves up delicious regional dishes. Enjoy fast-track access to the Vatican museums and view Michaelangelo's famous ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. Then voyage through the Chianti Hills of Florence and the cobbled streets of lakeside Lucerne with a final stop in the city of lights, Paris.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Paris: We walk up and down the "quartier" and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theaters, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighborhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc's spectacular jardin vertical 'oasis d'Aboukir', the Napoleonic "Egyptian" district etc.
- Paris: Join a local food lover on a walk through the streets of Paris. Visit a variety of patisseries, boulangeries and chocolatiers and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.
Top Rated Highlights
- London: Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.
- Amsterdam: Cruise along the waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
- Heidelberg: Venture inside the magnificent castle built in red sandstone, overlooking the Student Prince’s town. See the massive Heideleberg Tun built into the cellar in 1591, visit the Apothecary Museum and enjoy panoramic views of Heidelberg and the Neckar Valley.
- Heidelberg: Explore one of Germany's most enchanting cities during your orientation with your Travel Director.
- Innsbruck: Nestled amidst majestic mountains, Innsbruck is a beautiful city offering a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. Stroll the streets of the picturesque Old Town, with your Travel Director, learn about its history and admire the Baroque and Gothic architecture.
- Venice: With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.
- Rome: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the medieval buildings, including Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches, scattered throughout the city.
- Rome: Discover the history, the construction and the legends of the iconic Colosseum as you stroll around the exterior of this amazing structure.
- Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods.
- Lucerne: See the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge.
Make Travel Matter
Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft. This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit. Walk along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, with the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 15: Affordable and Clean Energy & Life on Land.
Authentic Dining
Amsterdam: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of Amsterdam for a delightful Welcome Dinner, served with wine.
Veneto: Visit a local winery and delight in a tasting of their magnificent prosecco. Meet the vignerons and learn how this local drink has come to rival its well-known counterpart in France.
Rome: Food and family go hand-in-hand in Italy and are pillars of the Italian way of life. Experience it for yourself with an invitation from your local host to join them for a truly Italian, home-cooked meal.
Florence: Enjoy a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina dinner in the city known for its delicious cuts of steak.
Baveno: Choose your dining experience from a selection of hand-picked local restaurants, each offering their own unique cuisine and ambience on your Dine-Around Evening.
Paris: Rendezvous with your newfound friends at La Coupole for a rousing dinner with wine.
Insight Choice
Paris: We walk up and down the "quartier" and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theaters, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighborhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc's spectacular jardin vertical 'oasis d'Aboukir', the Napoleonic "Egyptian" district etc.
Paris: Join a local food lover on a walk through the streets of Paris. Visit a variety of patisseries, boulangeries and chocolatiers and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To London
Location: London
Accommodation: Thistle Marble Arch, London.
Accommodation Name: Thistle Marble Arch, London
Welcome to London. After checking into your hotel, the afternoon is free to enjoy a city that is famous for its pomp and pageantry. Perhaps relax with a walk along the Serpentine in Hyde Park or window shop in the elegant boutiques of Knightsbridge. Alternatively, you may want to stroll along the Thames to the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London.
Day 2: Depart From London By Eurostar And Onto Amsterdam
Location: London, Amsterdam
Accommodation: Hilton Amsterdam.
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Amsterdam
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meet your Travel Director and transfer to London's St. Pancras Station to board the high-speed Eurostar. Your comfortable rail journey takes you through the Channel Tunnel to Brussels, en route to Amsterdam. Later, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception. Get to know your fellow guests as you cruise along some of the tree-lined canals to explore the heart of the Old City, before enjoying a pleasant evening of dinner and wine at a local restaurant.
Day 3: The Rhine Valley And Heidelberg
Location: Amsterdam, Heidelberg
Accommodation: Marriott Hotel Heidelberg.
Accommodation Name: Marriott, Heidelberg
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take a scenic drive through the Rhine Valley to see quaint villages, hilltop castles and hear the legend of the Lorelei Rock. Follow the Neckar River to Heidelberg and visit Heidelberg Castle with a Local Expert.
Day 4: Mountain-Ringed Innsbruck
Location: Heidelberg, Neuschwanstein Castle, Innsbruck
Accommodation: AC Hotel Innsbruck.
Accommodation Name: AC, Innsbruck
Meals Included: Breakfast
Skirt the northern Black Forest and head towards the rolling Bavarian Alps. Stop beneath the royal castles of Hohenschwangau and King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein, rumoured to have inspired Walt Disney's iconic castle. Once over the Austrian border, continue to the Tyrolean capital of Innsbruck. Tour the architectural jewels of the city, seeing the Imperial Palace, Golden Roof and the 14th century houses of the Old Town.
Day 5: Across The Dolomites To Venice Relaxed Start
Location: Innsbruck, Veneto, Venice
Accommodation: Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena.
Accommodation Name: Indigo - Sant'Elena, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue your journey, crossing the Italian border and on through the Dolomites. Amongst the hills of Conegliano Veneto, stop at a local family winery in Veneto to discover the art of prosecco production. Savor a tasting of these luxurious sparkling wines. Continue to the romantic city of Venice, Queen of the Adriatic. In the evening, enjoy a dinner with wine.
Day 6: The Magic Of La Serenissima Relaxed Start
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena.
Accommodation Name: Indigo - Sant'Elena, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up ready to embrace this romantic city. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you witness the skill of glassblowers on a visit to a traditional glassblowing workshop. Take a private cruise to St. Mark's Square where the city's former wealth and power is evidenced by the riches of St. Mark's Basilica. Admire the Doge's Palace and its adjoining Bridge of Sighs. With the rest of the day free, why not cruise the Venetian lagoon to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine?
Day 7: The Eternal City Of Rome
Location: Venice, Rome
Accommodation: Room 007 Select, Rome.
Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head into the Apennine Mountains and venture through the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria. Follow the course of the Tiber to the Eternal City of Rome. Enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, welcomed by the Rector of the basilica. Gaze in awe at the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics, illuminated for this evening's experience, and see the first sculpture by Bernini. Italian culture is deeply rooted in hospitality with food, friends and family being central to everyday life. For dinner, you’re invited into the home of a Roman local to experience Italian hospitality at its best.
Day 8: Papal And Imperial Rome
Location: Rome, Vatican, Rome
Accommodation: Room 007 Select, Rome.
Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
During your two-night stay, join a Local Expert for a tour of the priceless art housed in the Vatican Museums and the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel. Then explore St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world. Cross the River Tiber to see the largest amphitheater of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum and enjoy the afternoon at your leisure.
Day 9: The Chianti Hills To Florence
Location: Rome, Florence
Accommodation: NH Firenze, Florence.
Accommodation Name: NH Firenze, Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive to the Chianti Hills and the city of Florence. A Local Expert will accompany you to the Duomo where the Gates of Paradise adorn the baptistery. Continue to Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city, lined with fountains and statues it acts as a virtual open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. A leisurely afternoon gives you time to shop for quality goods, like gold and leather, which Florence is famous for. Alternatively, there is the option to visit the Accademia Gallery with an art historian to see Michelangelo's famed masterpiece, 'David.' In the evening, savor an authentic meal at a local trattoria in the heart of Florence.
Day 10: Lake Maggiore Relaxed Start
Location: Florence, Baveno
Accommodation: Hotel Simplon, Baveno.
Accommodation Name: Simplon, Baveno
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel past Milan, the capital of Lombardy, as you journey north to the beautiful Italian Lake District, a favorite retreat of the rich and famous where Alpine scenery combines with luxuriant subtropical vegetation. Relax and enjoy an afternoon at leisure at this popular resort and beautiful lake. Perhaps choose to take a cruise to the lovely Isola Bella for a guided tour of the incredible palace and stunning Botanical Gardens? Later, the choice is yours for your Dine-Around Evening. Enjoy your preferred dining experience from a selection of hand-picked local restaurants, each offering their own unique cuisine and ambience.
Day 11: The Alps And Onto Lucerne Relaxed Start
Location: Baveno, Stanserhorn, Lucerne
Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, enjoy your last moments among the charming Italian Lake District before your travels continue across the Swiss border. Explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-top cable car powered by solar panels take you up the summit. Take in the pristine mountain air and, on a clear day, witness views as far as Alsace and the Black Forest in Germany. Walk along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, with the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora. Continue to lakeside Lucerne where the afternoon is at your leisure. You may choose to enjoy a cruise on Lake Lucerne with its dramatic vistas.
Day 12: Lakeside Lucerne Relaxed Start
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
The emotive Lion Monument, carved into a limestone cliff, is a memorial dedicated to the heroic Swiss Guards who died defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution, which is a source of great pride to the people of Lucerne. See this beautiful work before strolling across the Chapel Bridge to see the ornate Jesuit Church. With the day free, there is plenty of time for shopping for delectable chocolate and glamorous Swiss watches in the traffic-free Old Town. Perhaps venture into the countryside for a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride and meet the local farmers?
Day 13: Sights And Delights Of Paris
Location: Lucerne, Paris
Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through the rural French country side of Alsace and Burgundy regions, famous for their vineyards and wines, to arrive in the vibrant City of Light. During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, discover the banks of the Seine with its many romantic bridges, see the obelisk in the center of the Place de la Concorde and drive along the Champs Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe. With the evening free, there are countless opportunities to enjoy the lively atmosphere of this glittering city. Why not visit one of the world-famous cabaret shows?
Day 14: The Food And Flavors Of Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you can enjoy an Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join an avid food lover as you head into areas where Parisians go about their daily lives to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the historic restaurant La Coupole. Delight in French cuisine and delicious wine.
Day 15: Au Revoir Paris
Location: Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bid farewell to your traveling companions as your journey comes to an end. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport.
What's Included
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Accommodations
Stay at the Thistle Marble Arch in London, the Hilton Amsterdam in Amsterdam, the Marriott Hotel Heidelberg in Heidelberg, the AC Hotel Innsbruck in Innsbruck, the Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena in Venice, the Room 007 Select in Rome, the NH Firenze in Florence, the Hotel Simplon in Baveno, and the Hotel Astoria in Lucerne.
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Meals
Enjoy 14 breakfasts (B) and 6 dinners with wine (DW), including a Welcome Dinner in Amsterdam, a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina dinner in Florence, and a Celebration Dinner in Paris.
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Transport
Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel. Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Experiences
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Venice, witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, enjoy a private cruise in Venice, gain Fast Track access into the Vatican Museums, and visit a local winery in Veneto for a prosecco tasting.
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Local Experts
Benefit from the knowledge of Local Experts in major cities like Rome, Florence, Paris, and more, providing you with enriching insights into local culture, history, and cuisine.
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Additional Services
Hotel and restaurant tips are included, as well as all taxes and porterage charges at hotels. Enjoy complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
What's Not Included
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International Airfare
International airfare to and from the start and end of your tour is not included, allowing you the flexibility to choose your own travel arrangements.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers to ensure protection against unforeseen events.
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Some Meals
While many meals are included, some are excluded to give you the freedom to explore local dining options according to your own taste and budget.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions and personal spending are not included, providing you with the opportunity to customize your travel experience.
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Airport Transfers Outside Scheduled Times
If your arrival and/or departure flights do not align with the itinerary start and end dates, transfers are not included but may be available for purchase.
Mode of Transport
Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.
Accommodation
Stay at the Thistle Marble Arch in London, the Hilton Amsterdam in Amsterdam, the Marriott Hotel Heidelberg in Heidelberg, the AC Hotel Innsbruck in Innsbruck, the Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena in Venice, the Room 007 Select in Rome, the NH Firenze in Florence, the Hotel Simplon in Baveno, and the Hotel Astoria in Lucerne.
Dining Summary
- 14 Breakfast (B)
- 6 Dinner with Wine (DW)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini's first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What countries will I visit on the Highlights of Europe tour?
On the Highlights of Europe tour, you will visit Austria, England, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
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How many dinners and breakfasts are included in the tour?
The tour includes 6 dinners with wine and 14 breakfasts.
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What are some of the highlights of the tour?
Some highlights of the tour include a choice between two carefully selected activities, a walk through Paris with a local foodie to sample treats and delicacies, Fast Track access into the Vatican Museums, a visit to a local winery in Veneto for a prosecco tasting, and a scenic cruise along the waterways of Amsterdam.
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Are there any special experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes special experiences such as a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience witnessing the skill of glassblowers in Venice, a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger in Stanserhorn, and an invitation from a local host in Rome for a home-cooked Italian meal.
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What type of accommodation is provided?
Accommodation includes stays at the Thistle Marble Arch in London, the Hilton Amsterdam, the Marriott Hotel Heidelberg, the AC Hotel Innsbruck, the Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena, the Room 007 Select in Rome, the NH Firenze in Florence, the Hotel Simplon in Baveno, and the Hotel Astoria in Lucerne.
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Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation includes a high-speed Eurostar train journey from London to Europe, a luxurious, air-conditioned coach with double the standard legroom, and complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi where available.
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What is the starting location of the tour?
The tour starts in London.
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What is the ending location of the tour?
The tour ends in Paris.
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Are there any included meals?
Yes, the tour includes 6 dinners with wine and 14 breakfasts.
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What are the pick-up and drop-off times?
The pick-up time in London is at 06:45. The drop-off times in Paris are at 08:00 and 11:00.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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