22 Day The Great European Tour

Prepare to be inspired. Depart today for your journey to Paris to commence your Great European tour.

Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.

Please note: if you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

Welcome to Paris! On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel where you have free time to explore the city before meeting your guide and fellow travellers this afternoon for a tour briefing.

Today promises a day full of exciting activities. Our first highlight is a transfer to the magnificent Versailles Palace, a symbol of French royalty with ample time to discover the incredible grounds on your own (entrance to the Palace not included). Following our visit, we'll return to Paris then transfer to the charming Montmartre district. An included funicular ride will transport us to the hilltop, where we can marvel at the stunning panoramic view of Paris. Montmartre is famous for its vibrant art scene and lively cabarets, creating a magical atmosphere to enjoy during our lunch break. Afterward, a captivating guided city tour awaits, offering insights into the rich history, prominent boulevards, and iconic monuments of Paris. Once the tour concludes, we'll head back to the hotel. 

Our day begins in the heart of Paris, specifically the area surrounding the iconic Eiffel Tower. Here, you'll have the incredible opportunity to ascend to the second floor of this impressive metal structure (ticket included). Afterward, we'll embark on a delightful boat cruise along the River Seine, offering picturesque views as we navigate between the northern and southern parts of Paris. Following the cruise, you'll have a free afternoon to explore the city at your own pace.

Late this afternoon,  we'll bid farewell to Paris and make our way to Rouen, a captivating city known as a living museum. With its charming half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and gothic churches, Rouen exudes a historical ambiance that is truly enchanting. We'll settle into our accommodations in the city, ready to immerse ourselves in its rich heritage.

Our day begins with a leisurely stroll through the centre of Rouen, where we'll marvel at its magnificent cathedral and wander through the charming streets of the historic centre. Once we've taken in the beauty of Rouen, we'll embark on a journey to the north of France.

Our mode of transportation will be a ferry as we cross the English Channel to reach Canterbury, known as the religious capital of England and boasting a captivating historic centre. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city's attractions and soak in its allure.

Next, we'll continue our journey to the bustling metropolis of London, where we'll arrive with ample time to discover its many treasures. Marvel at the illuminated Tower Bridge and take in the sight of modern architectural marvels that adorn the city's skyline. Afterward, we'll make our way back to the hotel, ensuring a comfortable end to the day's adventures.

Embark on a captivating exploration of London with a knowledgeable local guide, who will unveil the city's unique blend of style, culture, and history. Prepare to be amazed as we visit iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, the majestic River Thames, the historic Tower of London, and the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, where we may have the chance to witness the renowned "Changing of the Guard" ceremony, depending on the season.

Following the guided tour, you'll have the afternoon to yourself, allowing for personal leisure and further exploration of the city. 

As evening descends, join us for a delightful stroll through vibrant Leicester Square, lively China Town, and trendy Soho, where the atmosphere is electric with theatres and entertainment venues. Take your pick from the array of restaurants available, offering diverse cuisines to satisfy your dining preferences. Finally, we'll return to the hotel, ensuring a comfortable conclusion to the day's adventures.

Following breakfast, our first stop will be the esteemed British Museum, a treasure trove of history and artefacts, renowned as one of the oldest museums globally. As lunchtime approaches, we'll make our way to Camden, a district celebrated for its vibrant and eclectic street market, offering a fascinating array of cultural relics from around the world. Take advantage of some leisure time to explore and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

This afternoon we'll continue our journey to Colchester, recognized as the oldest city in England, where a delightful stroll awaits us. Subsequently, we'll embark on a ferry in Harwich, embarking on a captivating overnight voyage to the Netherlands.

Please note: Due to limited cabin availability on the ferry, there is a possibility of modifications to this stage of the journey. It may involve travelling from London to Amsterdam via a day ferry, with an overnight stay in Antwerp, or potentially by train or plane to Amsterdam. Confirmation of your detailed itinerary will be made available prior to departure.

By approximately 8:00 in the morning, our journey will bring us to the Netherlands, specifically Hoek Van Holland. Here, we will make a delightful stop in Volendam, a charming and picturesque fishing village renowned for its scenic beauty. Afterward, we will continue our travels to Amsterdam, where we will embark on a panoramic tour of the city. Prepare to be enchanted by its network of narrow canals, admire its distinguished official buildings, and revel in the tranquillity of its parks. Additionally, we will have the opportunity to witness the intricate art of diamond cutting.

As evening approaches, we will make our way to Rembrandtplein, a bustling area teeming with a multitude of restaurants offering delectable cuisine from around the globe. Situated in proximity to the renowned red-light district, known for its progressive ideals, this location provides a vibrant atmosphere for a memorable evening.

Our departure from Amsterdam will mark the beginning of our journey into Germany. Our first destination is Hamelin, a charming German town that will transport us into the captivating legend of The Pied Piper. As we stroll through its streets and explore its delightful shops, we will feel the enchantment of this beloved children's story, famously written by The Grimm Brothers.

Continuing our German adventure, we will pass through Marienborn, a significant location situated on the former border that once divided east and west Germany until the year 1990. 

Lastly, we will make our way to the vibrant city of Berlin, where we will arrive in the evening. Prepare to immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and energy of this captivating metropolis.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture as we embark on a guided tour of Berlin, Germany's captivating capital. Our journey will take us through the historic centre, Museum Island, the iconic Reichstag, and the majestic Brandenburg Gate, as well as the city's enchanting parks.

To gain a deeper understanding of Berlin's tumultuous history during the 20th century, we will make stops at the Holocaust Memorial and the Berlin Wall Museum. These poignant visits will provide valuable insights into the city's challenging past.

After our guided tour, you will have free time to explore the city at your own pace. 

In the evening, we recommend that you experience the lively ambiance of Kantstrasse, a district renowned for its diverse range of ethnic restaurants. Whether you prefer Indian, Oriental, Italian, German, or any other cuisine, you will find a delightful dining option to satisfy your palate.

Today we leave Berlin and embark on a scenic journey through picturesque forests as we make our way to Dresden. This city has gained renown as one of Germany's top tourist destinations, thanks to its remarkable architectural and artistic heritage. Take your time to explore the city's impressive palaces and indulge in a delightful lunch at one of its many charming restaurants and coffee shops.

Later, we continue our adventure as we head towards the Czech Republic. Our destination is Prague, where we arrive and make our way to the captivating Old Town Square. This vibrant and bustling area serves as a perfect introduction to Prague, brimming with energy and a wide array of tourist activities.

This evening, take the included transfer to the Old Town Square for an evening of leisure. For dinner, you have the freedom to choose from a variety of international cuisines available at the local restaurants then we return to our hotel, ready to rest and rejuvenate for the next day's exploration.

On this day, we will explore the captivating capital city of Prague, often referred to as the Baroque jewel of Europe. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local expert, we will embark on a comprehensive city tour that will showcase the city's exceptional monuments and highlights.

Our tour will take us through the majestic Prague Castle, where we will have the opportunity to admire its grandeur and immerse ourselves in its rich history (admission included). Afterward, we will embark on a delightful boat tour along the picturesque Vltava River, allowing us to appreciate Prague's stunning vistas from a different perspective.

In the afternoon, you will have some free time to wander and explore the city at your own pace, soaking in its unique ambiance and discovering its hidden gems. In the evening, we will have more time to savour the charm of the historic city centre. 

After a fulfilling day of exploration and cultural immersion, we will return to our hotel, where you can relax and unwind, cherishing the memories created during our time in this remarkable city.

Departing Prague early, we will embark on a journey to Bavaria, ultimately reaching the vibrant city of Munich. Upon arrival, you will have ample free time to explore the monumental city centre, taking in its architectural wonders and immersing yourself in its rich history. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in a traditional Bavarian meal at one of the renowned beerhouses, experiencing the authentic flavours of the region.

In the afternoon, our adventure continues as we make our way to Austria. As evening falls, we will arrive in the charming city of Innsbruck, where you will have the opportunity to explore the historic Old Town on your own. 

Start your day with a captivating visit to the prestigious Swarovski Museum, a world-renowned destination showcasing the brilliance of crystals. Explore the museum's captivating gardens and gain insight into the intricate process of crystal production. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to soak in the surroundings before embarking on a delightful journey to Zurich, Switzerland, through the breathtaking landscapes of Tyrol.

Upon reaching Zurich, prepare for an enchanting evening in the heart of the city's historic centre, nestled alongside the picturesque lake. Indulge in a culinary experience of your choice at one of the many restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisines, including Indian, Oriental, Italian, International, and authentic Swiss fare. Relish the atmosphere in this charming setting, surrounded by the allure of Zurich's rich cultural heritage.

Embark on a captivating journey today, as we traverse through breathtaking landscapes adorned with towering mountains and pristine lakes. The region of Interlaken presents a stunning panorama that will leave you in awe. Our first stop is in the charming village of Grindelwald, where we will take a delightful break to enjoy a cup of coffee, invigorating ourselves for the adventures ahead.

Prepare for an exhilarating experience as we ascend the mountain via cable car. A winding path awaits us, leading to the awe-inspiring "footbridge over the empty." With glaciers surrounding us, we'll walk across this remarkable bridge, immersed in the splendour of the scenery. Take in the majestic views that stretch as far as the eye can see.

For lunch, we'll savour a delightful meal amidst the mountain's beauty (included in the tour). Afterward, our journey continues to Lucerne, renowned as one of Switzerland's most exquisite cities. In the evening, take your time to explore and wander through the captivating streets, soaking in the charm of this enchanting city. Before returning to our hotel in Zurich, indulge in a delectable dinner, savouring the culinary delights that Lucerne has to offer.

Our journey begins as we depart from Zurich in the early morning, embarking on a scenic route that cuts through the majestic Alps, revealing awe-inspiring vistas of sparkling lakes and snow-capped mountains. Our destination is Lugano, located in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland. This cosmopolitan capital, nestled beside a stunning lake, awaits our arrival. Take your time to leisurely explore the city and enjoy a delightful stroll with time for lunch.

Next, our adventure takes us to the enchanting town of Morcote, renowned for its charming stone houses adorned with vibrant flowers. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this picturesque town before we continue our journey into Italy. Our arrival in Milan marks the next chapter of our exploration. Our knowledgeable guide will lead us to the impressive Duomo Square, where the grandeur of the magnificent Duomo Cathedral captivates the senses. In this vibrant square, you'll find a plethora of dining options for you to choose for dinner.

Afterward, we will transfer to our hotel, where you can relax and unwind, reflecting on the delightful experiences of the day.

Our journey continues as we make our way to the captivating city of Pisa. Aboard a charming tourist train, we will be transported to the renowned Piazza Dei Miracoli, also known as the Square of Miracles. Here, you will have ample time to marvel at one of Italy's most enchanting and remarkable art complexes, which includes the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Take in the awe-inspiring architecture and soak up the historical significance of this mesmerising site.

After our exploration of Pisa, we will proceed on our voyage to the eternal city of Rome, arriving towards the end of the day. As we approach our destination, anticipation builds for the wealth of cultural treasures and historical wonders that await us in this magnificent city.

In the morning, we will embark on a delightful scenic tour that will serve as a captivating introduction to the renowned "Eternal City" of Rome. Our first stop will be the magnificent Vatican City, the spiritual and cultural hub of Christianity. Here, you will have the opportunity to visit the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica, a grand testament to architectural brilliance and religious significance.  Next we will visit the Imperial Forum.

This afternoon is at leisure to explore the “Eternal City” on your own. 

As the evening approaches, we have arranged a transfer to the charming Trastevere area, where you can leisurely wander through its narrow, picturesque cobblestone streets. This enchanting district holds hidden treasures, including modest medieval churches and quaint shops displaying intriguing objects that offer glimpses into daily life. After enjoying a delightful evening, we will return to our hotel, filled with memories of the wonders Rome has to offer.

Today, we bid farewell to Rome and embark on a journey towards the enchanting city of Florence in northern Italy. As we traverse this route, we will be treated to breathtaking landscapes that will leave us in awe.

Upon arrival in Florence, our first stop will be the remarkable Piazzale Michelangelo, offering panoramic views that will leave an indelible mark on our memories. Here, we can soak in the beauty of the cityscape and appreciate its stunning architecture.

In the evening, we will be accompanied by a knowledgeable local expert who will guide us through the historic centre of Florence. As we meander through its charming streets, we will have the opportunity to marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Ponte Vecchio, the magnificent Duomo, and the captivating Plaza della Signoria. Florence itself is like an open-air museum, with its rich history and artistic treasures that are sure to captivate us.

This evening, feel free to explore the city further on your own, immersing yourself in its vibrant atmosphere and discovering its hidden gems.

Today, we embark on a scenic journey through the breathtaking Apennine Mountains, where stunning mountain landscapes will accompany us along the way. Our destination is the enchanting city of Venice, renowned for its unique charm and beauty.

Upon our arrival, we will board a boat and gracefully cross the Giudecca to reach the captivating Island of Venice. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, we will embark on a marvellous exploration of St. Mark's Square, a true gem of the city. We will have the privilege of entering the splendid St. Mark's Basilica, where we can admire its exquisite architecture and rich historical significance (entrance fee included).

Our journey continues with a visit to the renowned Murano Glass Factory, where we will have the opportunity to witness the captivating process of creating this ancient and delicate glass art. The technique and craftsmanship involved in the production of Murano glass are truly fascinating to behold.

Following these enriching experiences, you will have some leisure time to immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of Venice. 

As the day draws to a close, we will find accommodation in the Mestre district, providing a comfortable and convenient base for our stay. 

After enjoying a delightful breakfast, your tour comes to an end at your hotel.

Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

Arrive home today. We hope you have enjoyed your inspiring journey and have memories to last a lifetime.