Europe Express 2012

Itinerary

Day 1 London to Paris, France (option also to join in Paris)

We depart from London today and cross the English Channel on our way to Paris. This evening we have the chance to sit back and enjoy a ‘City Lights’ tour of the awe-inspiring French capital. (D)

Day 2 Paris 

Today is a free day to explore Paris with its many cultural treats. Enjoy a croissant in a local café, check out the artists’ work along the river, visit the Notre Dame, or wander down the Champs-Élysées; the choices are endless. Later, sample our delicious Paris Gourmet Picnic beside the Eiffel Tower and to complete a great day an optional River Seine cruise or cabaret show is on offer. (B,D)

Day 3 Paris to Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Magnificent alpine scenery is on display today as we travel to our base in the Swiss Alps. (B,L,D)

Day 4 Swiss Alps 

An optional excursion to the summit of Jungfrau mountain, home of Europe’s highest rail station anyone? (B,L,D)

Day 5 Swiss Alps to Venice, Italy

A complete change in landscape and culture today, as we head to Italy. To Venice, home of the gondola and an engineering masterpiece – the city is actually made up of 117 small islands all linked together by a series of bridges. Be prepared for the breathtaking beauty of this amazing place – one that will not be forgotten! (B,L,D)

Day 6 Venice 

Time for Venice in depth! There are two ways to really see Venice and today we do both – a walking tour to visit the sights such as the Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s Square, as well as a vaporetto ride on the Grand Canal to experience Venice from the water. An optional gondola ride with a local gondolier is a must-do as well! (B)

Day 7 Venice to Munich, Germany via Austria

A change of pace as we arrive in the capital of the Bavarian region of Germany. Munich has long been known for the annual Oktoberfest Beer Festival so tonight, grab a stein and a traditional pork knuckle or German sausage at one of Munich’s famous beer halls! (B,L)

Day 8 Munich to Rhine Valley via Dachau

A day of discovery – medieval castles, vineyards and the mighty Rhine River which carves its way through the countryside. The beauty of the Rhine Valley has inspired poets and painters alike and was a major traffic route in Roman times. Tonight spend the night in one of the many castles along the banks of the Rhine. (B,D)

Day 9 Rhine Valley to Amsterdam, Netherlands 

Unique Amsterdam beckons with its array of funky coffee shops, busy canals and literally millions of bicycles. Enjoy an evening taking in the atmosphere – a mix of modern and historical Europe with a Dutch flavour – windmills, tulips, cheese and clogs. (B)

Day 10 Amsterdam

Today we can cycle Amsterdam just like the locals. Spend the rest of the day seeing Amsterdam’s museums or trendy cafes. Tonight there’s a farewell dinner followed by an optional canal cruise. (B,D)

Day 11 Amsterdam to London

We return to London today via the medieval Belgian city of Brugge. Mouth watering chocolates and a vast selection of beers are readily available. We arrive back in London early evening. (B)