Classic Europe
Classic Europe
$3535
Classic Europe
14 Days Starting and ending in Hotel in London
Visiting: London, UK, Paris, Burgundy, Swiss Alps, Pisa, Tuscany, Florence, Rome, Venice, Munich, Nuremberg, Rhine Valley, Amsterdam, Bruges
Tour operator:
Tour code:
EC
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
Embark on this Classic Europe tour and explore top European destinations! Cruise Amsterdam’s canals, and Germany’s Rhine River. Capture iconic sites like London’s Buckingham Palace, Italy’s Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Paris' Eiffel Tower. Savour Tuscan delights, German brews, and Belgian waffles. Summit the Swiss Alps for breathtaking vistas. Revel in free time in Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, and the Swiss Alps. This fast-paced adventure ensures no highlights are missed!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Of Tour In London
Location: London, UK
Meals Included: Lunch
Welcome to London, the starting point of this Classic Europe tour! This morning, arrive at the hotel and meet up with the tour leader and tour group. Begin the European adventure with a city tour, checking off top landmarks before indulging in a classic British roast lunch at a local pub — a must-do in London! Afterward, explore Westminster, home to Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, and catch a glimpse of Buckingham Palace. The rest of the evening is free to explore as you wish! For a thrilling Victorian history experience, consider joining the immersive Jack The Ripper optional excursion this evening.
Explore London’s top sights on a guided tour
Enjoy a roast lunch at a traditional British Pub
Day 2: London - Paris
Location: London, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, the tour travels to Paris! Cross the English Channel and travel through to the French capital. Upon arrival, embark on a driving tour of the "City of Lights," featuring iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and more! This evening, gather for a group dinner at a local restaurant and take the opportunity to plan your activities for tomorrow's free day. Be sure to get a good night's rest as an exciting day of adventure awaits tomorrow!
See the highlights of Paris on a driving tour
Day 3: Paris: Free Day
Location: Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Parisian adventures await! Opt for independent exploration today, soaking up the city’s charm, or join the jam-packed Paris+ excursion for a full day of guided discovery and activities. See iconic landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées. Indulge in a macaron tasting, visit a perfume museum, cruise the River Seine with an included lunch, and enjoy a panoramic view from the Montparnasse Observation Deck. This evening, join the optional tour of Montmartre and choose to watch a dazzling cabaret show!
Day 4: Paris - Burgundy - Swiss Alps
Location: Paris, Burgundy, Swiss Alps
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Au revoir Paris!Today, savour the charm of small-town France with a lunch stop in Burgundy. Explore the town of Beaune, visit the beautiful Hospices de Beaune and sample renowned regional wines. Then, embark on a picturesque drive across the border into Switzerland, heading towards the Swiss Alps. Along the way, sit back and marvel at alpine forests, serene lakes, and majestic mountains. Finally, arrive in the Swiss Alps, your home for the next two days!
Visit Beaune; wine capital of Burgundy
Marvel at the views on a scenic Swiss mountain drive
Day 5: Swiss Alps: Free Day
Location: Swiss Alps
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy your free day breathing in the crisp Alpine air. Experience a guaranteed snow day at Jungfraujoch, the "Top of Europe," where snow covers the landscape year-round! Join the optional full-day excursion to this spectacular glacier which offers breathtaking views. The journey to the top provides panoramic vistas of mountains, lakes, and glaciers, making this trip a highlight in itself! Alternatively, explore at lower altitudes, wandering through the local town, sightseeing, and indulging in Swiss chocolate. Wrap up the day with an optional Swiss dinner featuring traditional Swiss cuisine!
Day 6: Swiss Alps - Pisa - Tuscany
Location: Swiss Alps, Pisa, Tuscany
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, the tour trades snow-capped peaks for rolling Tuscan hills as it travels towards Italy. The first stop is the world-famous and UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Don't miss the opportunity to capture iconic shots at one of Europe's most renowned cultural landmarks! Next, continue the journey to the exquisite Tuscan region, celebrated for its wine, food, art, and architecture. Arrive and relax in Montecatini Terme, a charming spa town nestled northwest of Florence. Unwind with a glass or two of local wine, embracing the Tuscan atmosphere, or join the optional excursion for a fantastic dinner in the town.
Enjoy a photo stop at the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Day 7: Tuscany - Florence - Rome
Location: Tuscany, Florence, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The journey continues through the beautiful Tuscan region today with the first stop being Florence. Enjoy an orientation tour of this enchanting Renaissance city renowned for its art and history. Afterward, witness expert local craftsmen at a leather-making workshop before enjoying free time to explore the city at your leisure. Or, join the optional excursion for a delectable, family-style Tuscan lunch. Next, continue to Italy's capital, Rome! Arrive and enjoy free time to discover this fascinating and ancient city before gathering with the group in the early evening for an included dinner.
Explore Florence with your tour leader
Day 8: Rome: Free Day
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Get ready for a free day in Rome! Today offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in Rome's ancient history, rich culture, and delectable cuisine. Consider joining a locally guided tour to explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum for insightful perspectives on ancient Rome. Alternatively, join the 'Conquer the Capital' optional excursion to see iconic sights like the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon, along with a delightful lunch and gelato tasting. For independent exploration, venture to Vatican City to witness the renowned Sistine Chapel, adorned with Michelangelo's masterpiece on the ceiling — be sure to gaze up in awe!
Day 9: Rome - Venice
Location: Rome, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Experience the incredible diversity of the Italian landscape as the tour ventures onward to Venice! This unique city spans across 118 islands and is famous for its canals, gondolas, Venetian masks, piazzas, art, and traditional crafts like glass and lace making. Look forward to seeing iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Square, the Grand Canal, and the Rialto Bridge. The evening is yours to indulge in Venetian delights as you wish. Enhance your experience by exploring Venice from the canals — join the An Evening in Venice optional excursion for gondola and water taxi rides as well as pizza or pasta for dinner for a truly unique perspective of this floating city!
Explore Venice, Italy’s floating city
Day 10: Venice - Innsbruck - Munich
Location: Venice, Munich, Nuremberg
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Farewell, Italy, Guten Tag Germany! Today, the tour journeys to Germany's vibrant capital of the Bavaria region, Munich. En route, stop in Innsbruck, Austria, and embark on an orientation tour. Visit the Golden Roof Museum and marvel at the Gothic architecture before enjoying free time for lunch. Next, continue to Munich. While famous for Oktoberfest, Munich boasts a rich history beyond its beer halls. Join an orientation tour with your tour leader to discover the city's highlights and delve into its fascinating past. Tonight, raise a glass and toast to your adventure in a traditional German beer hall, immersing yourself in Bavarian culture and cuisine!
Visit the captivating Austrian city of Innsbruck
Discover Munich on an orientation tour
Say prost in a traditional German beer hall
Day 11: Munich - Rhine Valley
Location: Nuremberg, Rhine Valley, Amsterdam
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Continue the German adventure this morning by heading to the enchanting Rhine Valley. Arrive in one of the most picturesque areas along the Rhine River and embark on a cruise along its waters. This region boasts the most concentrated stretch of castles in Europe, set against striking cliffs, medieval fortresses, and historic vineyards that line the river banks. The cruise ends in Boppard, a UNESCO World Heritage town renowned for its exceptional wine! Sample some of the region's wine, the Riesling is a must-try, and learn more about Rhine Valley varietals in an included tasting. Finally, check into the hotel for the evening and enjoy an included dinner.
Enjoy a Rhine River Cruise
Day 12: Rhine Valley - Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Meals Included: Breakfast
Say “Auf Wiedersehen” to Germany this morning as the tour heads towards the Netherlands! Pause in the Dutch countryside to learn about some of the country's renowned local products. Sample delicious Dutch cheese and witness the traditional craft of clog-making. Then, visit the Riekermolen Windmill to capture memorable photos before continuing to Amsterdam, the vibrant Dutch capital. Discover the city's highlights on a relaxing canal cruise, soaking in the sights and stories. Enjoy free time before tonight's dinner at a local restaurant.
Enjoy an Amsterdam canal cruise
Day 13: Amsterdam - Bruges - London
Location: Amsterdam, Bruges, London
Meals Included: Breakfast
The tour continues to London today! The first stop is the medieval city of Bruges, in Belgium. Enjoy free time in the city to wander cobblestone streets, admire historic architecture, sample Belgian chocolate, and indulge in Belgian waffles! Afterward, embark on the final leg of the journey back to London. Cross the English Channel and return to London by the end of the day. This evening, why not say farewell the festive way with a delicious, optional curry dinner on the famous Brick Lane?
Visit Bruges; a medieval Belgian city
Day 14: End Of Tour In London
Location: London
Meals Included: Breakfast
After two incredible weeks spent exploring Europe, the tour comes to an end this morning. Gather with the group for breakfast at the hotel, where you can bid farewell to your fellow travellers and new friends. We look forward to welcoming you back on the road again soon! Safe travels!
What's Included
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Accommodation
13 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
13 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 6 Dinners*Vegetarian options available for all meals on request
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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
13 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.
Health and Fitness
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.
Experiences
Explore London’s top sights on a guided tour
Enjoy a roast lunch at a traditional British Pub
See the highlights of Paris on a driving tour
Visit Beaune; wine capital of Burgundy
Marvel at the views on a scenic Swiss mountain drive
Enjoy a photo stop at the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Explore Florence with your tour leader
Explore Venice, Italy’s floating city
Visit the captivating Austrian city of Innsbruck
Discover Munich on an orientation tour
Say prost in a traditional German beer hall
Enjoy a Rhine River Cruise
Enjoy an Amsterdam canal cruise
Visit Bruges; a medieval Belgian city
Check out our Q&As
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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.
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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.
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes, Full air-conditioning
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Certain nationalities may require a visa(s) for this tour.
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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
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Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Our travelers come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests.
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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!
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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.
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
Yes
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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.
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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.
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees are not included.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
All our tours are conducted in English.
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What currencies are required for this tour?
Euro
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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.
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What is the tipping policy?
At the end of your tour you will have the opportunity to thank your Expat Explore tour leader and driver by offering them a tip. We suggest somewhere between £3-5, €4-6 or $5-7 per person per day. Tipping is entirely voluntary and the above rate is offered as a suggested guide only.
If you take a walking tour with a local guide, tipping at the end is always appreciated, but not expected. -
Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
Single travelers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room
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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.
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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 -
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2005
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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!
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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
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Free Date Changes
Expat Explore Travel allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 76 days before the start of the tour.
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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 45 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of expat explore travel charges.
Up to 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
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.