Highlights of Europe - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group, Winter

Highlights of Europe - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group, Winter

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14 Days From

$4335

$4325

Highlights of Europe - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group, Winter

14 Days Starting in Amsterdam, Netherlands and ending in Paris, France

Visiting: Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Florence, Lucerne, Paris

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

W933ZM119

Specialist Group:

Family/Kids

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Balanced

Age range:

5-99

Special diets catered:

13 Breakfasts

Tour operated in:

English
From: $4335 $4325 Operator discount: -$10

NB: Prices correct on 22-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable winter journey through Europe's most iconic destinations with the "Highlights of Europe" tour. Starting in Amsterdam and concluding in Paris, this classic group tour takes you through the heart of Europe, visiting six countries: France, Austria, Italy, Holland, Germany, and Switzerland. Experience the charm of Amsterdam's canals, the grandeur of Heidelberg Castle, and the breathtaking beauty of the Bavarian Alps. Discover the romance of Venice, the historical wonders of Rome, and the artistic treasures of Florence. In Lucerne, enjoy a scenic cable car ride to Mount Pilatus, and in Paris, explore the vibrant Montorgueil district or indulge in a culinary adventure. With authentic dining experiences, including a home-cooked meal in Rome and a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina dinner in Florence, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and gastronomy. Travel in comfort and style, with luxurious accommodations and insightful guided tours.

Highlights

  • Cruise along Amsterdam's canals and discover 17th-century mansions.

  • Explore Heidelberg Castle and enjoy panoramic views of the Neckar Valley.

  • Stroll through Innsbruck's picturesque Old Town and admire its Baroque and Gothic architecture.

  • Cruise to St. Mark's Square in Venice and see the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica.

  • Discover the history and legends of Rome's iconic Colosseum.

  • View Florence's multi-coloured marble cathedral and visit Signoria Square.

  • Journey to the summit of Mount Pilatus for breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.

  • Sample local treats and delicacies on a food lover's walk through Paris.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Amsterdam

Location: Amsterdam

Accommodation Name: Hilton, Amsterdam

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to Amsterdam, enjoy a day of leisure. Join your Travel Director for dinner. Mingle and get to know your fellow travellers as you cruise along some of the many quaint, 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 2: The Rhine Valley And Heidelberg

Location: 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 3: Mountain-Ringed Innsbruck

Location: 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 4: Across The Dolomites To Venice Relaxed Start

Location: Venice

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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. Savour 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 5: The Magic Of La Serenissima Relaxed Start

Location: Venice

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, 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 6: The Eternal City Of Rome

Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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 7: Papal And Imperial Rome

Location: 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 8: The Chianti Hills To Florence

Location: Florence

Accommodation Name: Adler Cavalieri, Florence

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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, savour an authentic meal at a local trattoria in the heart of Florence.

Day 9: Free Time In Renaissance Florence Relaxed Start

Location: Florence

Accommodation Name: Adler Cavalieri, Florence

Meals Included: Breakfast

The day is free for you to fully immerse yourself in the Tuscan capital. Be sure not to miss the magnificent museums and galleries housing some of the most famous works of art in the world. Or perhaps just relax and soak up the atmosphere in one of the many street cafes?

Day 10: The Alps And On To Lucerne

Location: Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, travel across the Swiss border. 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. The afternoon is at your leisure. You may choose to enjoy a cruise on Lake Lucerne with its dramatic vistas.

Day 11: Lakeside Lucerne Relaxed Start

Location: Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today, appreciate the Alpine terrain as you embark on a scenic journey by cable car to the summit of the stunning Mount Pilatus. Take in the pristine mountain air and spectacular views. With the rest of 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? 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 12: Sights And Delights Of Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Paris - Republique.

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 13: The Food And Flavours Of Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Paris - Republique.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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 14: Au Revoir Paris

Location: Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bid farewell to your travelling companions as your journey comes to an end. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport.

What's Included

  • Transport

    Travel from London to Europe on the high-speed Eurostar train. Take a private cruise to St. Mark's Square in Venice. Enjoy a scenic journey by cable car to the summit of Mount Pilatus.

  • Dining

    6 Dinners with Wine and 13 Breakfasts are included.

  • Additional Included Highlights

    Personal radio headsets, hotel and restaurant tips, taxes and porterage charges, luggage handling, Insight Flourish, complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi, and scheduled airport transfers are included.

  • Insight Experiences

    Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit in Rome.

  • Well-being

    Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Hand sanitizer is freely available on board.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    International flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel from London to Europe on the high-speed Eurostar train. Take a private cruise to St. Mark's Square in Venice. Enjoy a scenic journey by cable car to the summit of Mount Pilatus.

Accommodation

Stay in hotels like Hilton Amsterdam, Marriott Hotel Heidelberg, AC Hotel Innsbruck, Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio in Venice, Room 007 Select in Rome, Hotel Adler Cavalieri in Florence, and Hotel Astoria in Lucerne.

Dining Summary

  • 6 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 13 Breakfast (B)

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

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome, witnessing the ancient skill of glassblowing in Venice, and a scenic journey by cable car to the summit of Mount Pilatus in Lucerne.

  • Are there any special dining experiences during the tour?

    Yes, the tour offers several authentic dining experiences including a Welcome Dinner in Amsterdam, a home-cooked meal with a local host in Rome, a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina dinner in Florence, and a Dine-Around Evening in Lucerne where you can choose from a selection of local restaurants.

  • What activities are available in Paris during the tour?

    In Paris, you can choose to explore the Montorgueil district or join a local food lover to sample local treats. You will also have the opportunity to see landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, and the Arc de Triomphe.

  • What is the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Venice?

    The MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Venice involves visiting a traditional glassblowing workshop where you can witness artisans creating delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. This experience supports the survival of this ancient craft.

  • What are some of the highlights of the tour in Rome?

    In Rome, highlights include a tour of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, exploring St. Peter’s Basilica, and seeing the Colosseum. You will also have a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes.

  • 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.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • 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.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • 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.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Friday

Dec 14, 2024 - Dec 27, 2024
$4335 $4325

Operator discount: -$10

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    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.

  • 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.