Overview
Embark on an extraordinary 29-day journey across the heart of Europe, where every day unfolds a new story of timeless beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the romantic streets of Paris and the artistic brilliance of Barcelona to the Renaissance treasures of Florence and the eternal grandeur of Rome, this itinerary captures the very soul of Western Europe.
Sail through the Mediterranean spirit of the French Riviera, glide along Venice’s magical canals, and admire Switzerland’s alpine charm before crossing into Central Europe’s imperial capitals like Vienna and Budapest. Experience Greece’s ancient mythology in Athens and Delphi, and trace the footsteps of legends across UNESCO World Heritage sites, historic battlefields, and medieval fortresses.
Journey further into Eastern Europe’s cultural richness through Bulgaria, Serbia, and Hungary, then return west through Austria, Germany, and the Netherlands—each country offering its own distinct character, traditions, and landscapes.
This grand European circuit is a seamless blend of breathtaking scenery, iconic landmarks, artistic masterpieces, and centuries of living history. From the snow-capped Alps and sun-kissed Mediterranean coasts to cobblestone old towns and world-famous capitals, Europe reveals itself in all its diversity and charm.
Concluding in Amsterdam and returning via Brussels and London, this unforgettable journey leaves you with a treasure of experiences—stories of culture, cuisine, architecture, and heritage that define the true essence of Europe.
Itinerary
Transfer to the railway station and board the Eurostar train to Paris with your Tour Director, enjoying a comfortable journey beneath the English Channel and scenic views en route to the French capital.
Upon arrival in Paris, you will be warmly assisted and transferred to your hotel for check-in and relaxation. The rest of the day is at leisure to unwind or explore the surroundings at your own pace.
Overnight stay in Paris.
Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Paris, the romantic capital of France, beginning with an included guided tour of its most famous landmarks. Discover iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and other historic monuments that reflect the city’s timeless charm and elegance.
The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the city further or indulge in shopping and café culture.
Overnight stay in Paris.
Travel south to Blois and journey through the scenic Loire Valley, pausing in Tours to explore its beautifully preserved historic center, rich with medieval charm and vibrant squares. Continue onward to Poitiers, an elegant town set dramatically on a rocky plateau overlooking the surrounding landscapes. The route then leads further south into the renowned Grande Champagne wine region, celebrated for its rolling vineyards and heritage of fine wine production. Conclude the day in Bordeaux, gracefully situated on the banks of the Garonne River.
Overnight stay in Bordeaux. (Today’s distance: 373 mi / 600 km; Dinner included)
From the sun-soaked vineyards of the Gironde and along the Garonne River, journey east toward the legendary walled city of Carcassonne in the foothills of the Pyrenees. Take time to explore this remarkably preserved medieval fortress, where ramparts, towers, and cobbled lanes bring centuries of history to life. Continue across the Spanish border through the scenic landscapes of Catalonia before arriving in vibrant Barcelona.
Overnight stay in Barcelona. (Approx. distance: 650 km / 404 miles; Dinner included)
Discover the highlights of Barcelona on a guided city tour, beginning with a scenic drive around Montjuïc Hill, home to the iconic Olympic Stadium and offering spectacular panoramic views of the city skyline and bustling port. Continue into the heart of the city, passing through the vibrant Plaça de Catalunya and the elegant Passeig de Gràcia, where you can admire the extraordinary architectural masterpieces of Antoni Gaudí, renowned for their creativity, grandeur, and distinctive design (entrance fees not included).
Overnight stay in Barcelona.
Back in France, journey through the vineyard-covered region of Hérault and enjoy a stop in the charming town of Arles, famously associated with Vincent van Gogh, who lived here from 1888 to 1889 and created more than 300 paintings and drawings inspired by its beauty. Continue along the stunning Mediterranean coastline, where spectacular sea views accompany your drive to the heart of the world-famous French Riviera.
Arrive in the elegant city of Nice for an overnight stay. (Today’s Distance: 429 mi / 690 km)
A full day at leisure allows you to take advantage of everything the splendid Côte d’Azur has to offer. Explore the charming Old Town, climb up Castle Hill for panoramic views of Nice, or spend some time at the renowned Marc Chagall National Museum. Tonight, consider joining our optional Monte Carlo by Night excursion to the nearby Principality of Monaco and experience its glamour and elegance after dark.
Overnight stay at Nice.
Enjoy a spectacular drive along the world-famous French and Italian Flower Rivieras, where picturesque seaside towns, lush landscapes, and stunning Mediterranean vistas create an unforgettable journey. Continue across the fertile plains of the Po River Valley, one of Italy’s most important agricultural regions, before travelling towards the sparkling shores of the Adriatic Sea and arriving in the enchanting Venice area.
Overnight stay at Venice. (Today’s Distance: 360 mi / 580 km)
Step into the timeless charm of Venice as your day begins with a delightful BOAT RIDE to the magnificent St. Mark’s Square, the historic and cultural heart of the city. Enjoy time at leisure to explore and soak in the unique atmosphere of this unforgettable city built on water. Witness the artistry of a skilled GLASSBLOWER as they demonstrate Venice’s centuries-old glassmaking tradition. You may also choose to enhance your experience with an optional romantic gondola ride through the city’s enchanting canals.
Overnight stay at Venice. (Dinner included)
Today, embark on a scenic journey through the verdant Apennine Hills into Tuscany, Italy’s most celebrated region. Arrive in Florence, the renowned “Cradle of the Renaissance.” An included walking tour with a Local Guide showcases the city’s most celebrated landmarks, including Signoria and the famous copy of Michelangelo’s “David.” Soak in the timeless charm, art, and history that make Florence one of the world’s most captivating cities.
Overnight stay at Florence. (Today’s Distance: 186 mi/ 300 km; Dinner included)
Today, travel to Pisa and board a mini train for a visit to the iconic Leaning Tower, located in the magnificent Square of Miracles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. Admire this world-famous landmark and the architectural treasures that surround it before continuing your journey to Rome.
Overnight stay at Rome. (Today’s Distance: 280 mi/ 450 km)
Welcome to Rome, the legendary “Eternal City,” where ancient history, magnificent architecture, and vibrant modern life blend seamlessly. Included sightseeing with a Local Guide begins at St. Peter’s Square and Basilica, followed by visits to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the majestic Colosseum—the largest amphitheater ever built—and the historic Circus Maximus. Discover the timeless charm and grandeur of one of the world’s most fascinating cities.
Overnight stay at Rome.
Set off on a scenic journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Apennine Mountains, passing charming old-world villages and rolling countryside on your way to Ancona, a historic port city on the Adriatic Sea. Later, board your overnight ferry and embark on a memorable Mediterranean crossing towards Greece. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the unique experience of spending the night at sea.
Overnight stay onboard the ferry. (Today’s Distance: 199 mi/ 320 km)
Awaken to the refreshing sea air as your ferry arrives in Greece. From Patras, continue south to Olympia, one of the most celebrated archaeological sites in the world and the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Explore this historic sanctuary, where the spirit of athletic competition was born over 2,700 years ago, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of ancient Greece.
Overnight stay at Olympia. (Today’s Distance: 93 mi/ 150 km; Dinner included)
Begin the day with a guided visit to Olympia, where a Local Guide brings to life the history of this legendary archaeological site. Explore the sacred precinct of Zeus, whose magnificent temple once housed a colossal statue recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Later, journey through the scenic mountains of Arcadia in the heart of the Peloponnese Peninsula before crossing the impressive Corinth Canal, a remarkable feat of engineering. Continue to Athens, the historic capital of Greece and one of the world’s oldest cities. This evening, soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the charming Plaka district, known for its traditional tavernas, lively streets, and authentic Greek character.
Overnight stay at Athens. (Today’s Distance: 180 mi/ 290 km)
Welcome to Athens, the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy. This morning, enjoy an included city sightseeing tour showcasing the capital’s most iconic landmarks, including a visit to the magnificent Acropolis and the world-famous Parthenon, symbols of Greece’s rich cultural heritage. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore the city’s vibrant shops and fascinating museums, or simply relax by the coast.
Overnight stay at Athens. (Dinner included)
Journey through the heart of ancient Greece as you travel towards Delphi, one of the country’s most revered archaeological treasures. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of the Ancient Sanctuary of Apollo, home to the legendary Oracle of Delphi. Explore the remarkable Excavation Site and visit the fascinating Archaeological Museum, showcasing priceless artifacts from Greece’s classical past.
Continue to historic Thermopylae, the legendary battlefield where King Leonidas and his Spartan warriors made their heroic stand against the Persian army in 480 BC. Visit the iconic Leonidas Monument, dedicated to the courageous Spartan king.
Later, travel north along Greece’s scenic coastline to Thessalonika, the country’s vibrant second-largest city. Overnight stay at Thessalonika. (Today’s Distance: 342 mi / 550 km; Dinner included.)
Travel across the Bulgarian border and through the picturesque Struma River Valley, renowned as the homeland of the legendary Spartacus. Arrive in Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital, where a guided sightseeing tour introduces you to the city’s rich history and architectural treasures. Admire the impressive Parliament Building, the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the elegant National Theater, and the historic St. Sophia Church, one of the city’s oldest and most significant landmarks.
Overnight stay at Sofia. (Today’s Distance: 205 mi / 330 km; Dinner included.)
Today, journey into Serbia and make a stop in the historic city of Niš, one of the oldest cities in Europe. Visit the impressive Niš Fortress, a remarkably well-preserved 18th-century Ottoman stronghold that stands as a testament to the region’s rich past. Continue onwards to Belgrade, Serbia’s vibrant capital, where the Sava and Danube rivers meet.
Overnight stay at Belgrade. (Today’s Distance: 255 mi / 410 km.)
Cross into Hungary and make a stop in the charming border city of Szeged, renowned for its rich history, legendary associations with Attila the Hun, and its long-standing tradition as the home of Hungary’s famous paprika. Continue to the magnificent city of Budapest, often regarded as one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals, where grand architecture and the majestic Danube River create an unforgettable setting.
This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before settling in for an overnight stay at Budapest. (Today’s Distance: 249 mi / 400 km; Dinner included.)
Discover the timeless beauty of Budapest on a guided sightseeing tour with your Local Guide. Explore the historic Buda Castle, majestically overlooking the Danube and the twin cities of Buda and Pest. Continue to the impressive Heroes’ Square, home to the iconic Millennium Monument and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Admire the grandeur of the Royal Castle, the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building, the scenic Margaret Island, the fairytale-like Fishermen’s Bastion, and the beautiful Matthias Coronation Church, one of Budapest’s most treasured landmarks.
Overnight stay at Budapest.
Travel towards the Austrian border, making a stop in the charming city of Györ, renowned for its picturesque narrow lanes, distinctive corner balconies, and beautifully preserved Baroque old town. Continue to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, where you’ll discover historic landmarks including St. Michael’s Gate, the city’s only surviving medieval gateway, and the magnificent St. Martin’s Church, a Gothic masterpiece that once hosted the coronations of Hungarian kings. Later, cross into Austria and arrive in the elegant imperial city of Vienna, famed for its grand boulevards, magnificent architecture, and rich cultural heritage.
Overnight stay at Vienna. (Today’s Distance: 174 mi / 280 km.)
Welcome to Vienna, the magnificent former capital of the Habsburg Empire, a city renowned for its imperial grandeur, rich cultural heritage, and deep musical legacy associated with great composers such as Strauss, Brahms, Beethoven, Haydn, and Mozart. Enjoy an included guided sightseeing tour featuring the elegant State Opera House, the impressive Parliament Building, and Heroes’ Square, offering splendid views of the majestic Hofburg Palace. During your free time, soak up the city’s timeless charm in one of its traditional coffee houses and perhaps indulge in a slice of the famous Sachertorte, or choose to join one of our exciting optional excursions.
Overnight stay at Vienna.
Journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Danube region to Salzburg, the charming birthplace of Mozart and one of Austria’s most beautiful cities. Stroll through the historic Getreidegasse, a delightful street renowned for its elegant architecture, traditional shop signs, and vibrant atmosphere. Later, travel through the picturesque Bavarian countryside, where rolling green meadows, quaint villages, and alpine vistas accompany your journey into Germany. Arrive in Munich, Bavaria’s cosmopolitan capital, celebrated for its rich heritage, grand architecture, and lively culture.
Overnight stay at Munich. (Today’s Distance: 286 mi / 460 km)
Begin the day with an orientation tour of Munich, Bavaria’s vibrant capital. Admire the city’s iconic Marienplatz, the historic heart of Munich, and marvel at the world-famous Glockenspiel, renowned for its charming mechanical performance. Later, continue to the lakeside town of Bregenz, beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Constance. Enjoy scenic views as you travel along the lake before crossing into Switzerland and proceeding to the enchanting city of Lucerne, celebrated for its stunning alpine setting and timeless charm.
Overnight stay at Lucerne. (Today’s Distance: 255 mi / 410 km)
Discover the timeless beauty of Lucerne, one of Switzerland’s most picturesque cities, during this morning’s sightseeing tour. Admire the remarkably preserved City Walls, stroll past the iconic Chapel Bridge, Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridge, and visit the poignant Lion Monument, a masterpiece carved in stone to commemorate the heroic Swiss Guards of Louis XVI. The remainder of the day is at leisure, with a selection of exciting optional excursions available to further enhance your Swiss experience.
Overnight stay at Lucerne.
Today, cross into France and enjoy time at leisure in the enchanting city of Strasbourg, the seat of the European Parliament and a captivating blend of French elegance and German heritage. Admire the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, wander through the charming canals and half-timbered houses of La Petite France, and savor the region’s distinctive Franco-German culinary traditions. Later, return to Germany and continue to Trier, the country’s oldest city, renowned for its rich Roman legacy and historic charm.
Overnight stay at Trier. (Today’s Distance: 286 mi / 460 km)
Travel through Germany’s renowned Ruhr Region before entering the picturesque, canal-crossed landscapes of the Netherlands. Arrive in Amsterdam, the vibrant capital celebrated for its historic architecture, charming waterways, and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy an included Canal Cruise, offering a unique perspective of the city’s elegant merchant houses, picturesque bridges, and bustling waterfronts. Continue with a visit to a renowned Diamond Center, where skilled craftsmen demonstrate the art of cutting and polishing precious stones. Later, discover Amsterdam’s highlights on a guided sightseeing tour and enjoy time at leisure to explore the city’s unique atmosphere at your own pace.
Overnight stay at Amsterdam. (Today’s Distance: 267 mi / 430 km; Dinner included)
After an incredible month exploring Europe’s most iconic destinations, drive to Brussels and board the EUROSTAR train to London, carrying home a lifetime of unforgettable memories, new experiences, and cherished moments from this remarkable journey.
