Essential Europe 2012

Itinerary

Day 1 London to Amsterdam,Netherlands

Today we cross the English Channel to France by ferry. Upon arrival in Calais we meet our Topdeck Driver and head to Amsterdam. Amsterdam is a city of contrasts – bicycles, clogs, tulips and the infamous red light district live side by side in harmony!

 

Day 2 Amsterdam to Rhine Valley, Germany

We depart Amsterdam this morning for the delights of Germany. We discover medieval castles, vineyards and the mighty Rhine River in the Rhine Valley, our base for the evening. Dinner is included tonight.(B,D)

 

Day 3 Rhine Valley to Munich

Uncover the pretzels and roasted pork knuckles of Munich on our walking tour. Don’t leave Bavaria without a visit to the beer halls to sample a German beer or two whilst being entertained by the traditional Oompah band. (B)

 

Day 4 Munich to Tyrol, Austria

Breathtaking scenery and loads of options for adrenaline junkies in the stunning Tyrol. (B,D)

 

Day 5 Tyrol to Venice, Italy

More great alpine scenery to enjoy as we travel to the extraordinary city of Venice – a maze of canals and incredible artworks. Our included vaporetto ride on the Grand Canal is the perfect way to see the city. (B)

 

Day 6 Venice to Rome

On to Italy’s capital – the eternal city of Rome. Our walking tour takes in the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Church of the Capuchin Monks, the ancient Roman Forum, the Colosseum and more. (B,D)

 

Day 7 Rome

Today is our chance to visit the fascinating Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica. There is plenty of free time to explore the Palantine Hill area (the ancient commercial and political heart of Rome) or shop in some of the fashionable boutiques. (B)

 

Day 8 Rome to Florence

To the home of Renaissance art, gold and silver markets, great shopping and even better food. (B)

 

Day 9 Florence to Lucerne, Switzerland

Relax this morning and enjoy the changing vistas en route to the pretty lakeside town of Lucerne, nestled in the Swiss Alps. Our highlights tour includes the famous Lion Monument, Chapel Bridge, Glacier Gardens and Hopfkirche. (B,D)

 

Day 10 Lucerne to Paris, France

Our journey today takes us through some gorgeous scenery to Paris. This evening we can try some French cuisine before heading into “The City of Light” for a spectacular city lights tour. Marvel at the renowned beauty of Paris as we pass some of the many famous sights along the River Seine. Our city tour takes us past the Place de la Concorde, Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower

and much more! (B)

 

Day 11 Paris

Today there is plenty of free time to explore the sights of Paris at our own pace – Notre Dame Cathedral, the Georges Pompidou Centre, the Louvre or the impressive Musée d’Orsay. One way to get

another perspective of the city is on a bicycle tour. Tonight, we enjoy a Paris Gourmet Picnic dinner near the Eiffel Tower. Then perhaps an optional Seine River Cruise or see one of the oldest

cabaret shows in Paris at the famous Paradis Latin. (B,D)

 

Day 12 Paris to London

We leave Paris this morning and make our way back to Calais for our ferry. Our trip finishes this evening back in London. (B)