Highlights of Europe - Start London, End Paris, Small Group, Winter
Highlights of Europe - Start London, End Paris, Small Group, Winter
Highlights of Europe - Start London, End Paris, Small Group, Winter
14 Days Starting in London, England and ending in Paris, France
Visiting: Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Florence, Lucerne, Paris
Tour operator:
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 24
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable winter journey through Europe with the "Highlights of Europe - Start London, End Paris, Small Group" tour. Begin your adventure in London, traveling via the high-speed Eurostar to Amsterdam, and continue through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley, the Bavarian Alps, and the Dolomites. Experience the rich history and culture of cities like Heidelberg, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Florence, Lucerne, and Paris. Enjoy exclusive experiences such as a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome, a glassblowing workshop in Venice, and a scenic cable car ride to Mount Pilatus. Savor local cuisines with included dinners and breakfasts, and explore iconic landmarks with the guidance of local experts. This tour offers a perfect blend of guided activities and free time, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive European experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Depart London By Eurostar And Onto Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Amsterdam
Meals Included: Dinner
Meet your Travel Director and transfer to London's St. Pancras Station to board the high-speed Eurostar. Your comfortable rail journey takes you via the historic Channel Tunnel to Brussels where you will drive to Amsterdam. Later, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception. Mingle and get to know your fellow travellers as you cruise along some of the many tree-lined canals, to explore the heart of the Old City, before enjoying a pleasant evening of dinner with wine at a local restaurant.
Day 2: The Rhine Valley And Heidelberg
Location: Heidelberg
Accommodation: Hotel
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: Hotel
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: Hotel
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: Hotel
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: Hotel
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: Hotel
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: Hotel
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: Hotel
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: Hotel
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: Hotel
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: Hotel
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
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Meals
6 dinners with wine and 13 breakfasts are included.
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Activities
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Paris.
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Local Experiences
Join a local food lover on a walk through the streets of Paris, visiting patisseries, boulangeries, and chocolatiers.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided to give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included.
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Porterage
Bags are carried for you and promptly delivered to your hotel door.
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Insight Flourish
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, a local specialty representing the destination.
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Wi-Fi
Stay connected with complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.
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Welcome Dinner
Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in Amsterdam for a delightful Welcome Dinner, served with wine.
What's Not Included
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Airfare
International and domestic airfare not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
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Personal Expenses
Items of a personal nature, including souvenirs, laundry, and beverages, are not included.
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Optional Activities
Costs for optional activities not included in the itinerary are not covered.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for tour director, drivers, and local guides are not included.
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Visa Fees
Any applicable visa fees are not included.
Mode of Transport
Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.
Accommodation
Stay in luxurious hotels such as the Hilton in Amsterdam, Marriott in Heidelberg, AC in Innsbruck, Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio in Venice, Room 007 Select in Rome, Adler Cavalieri in Florence, Astoria in Lucerne, and Crowne Plaza Paris - Republique in Paris.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities can I expect in Paris during the tour?
In Paris, you can choose between exploring the picturesque Montorgueil district to see community life or joining a local food lover to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. Additionally, you will have a guided walk through a car-free, pedestrianized neighborhood, visiting landmarks, food stores, and theatres.
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What unique experiences are included in Venice?
In Venice, you will witness the ancient skill of glassblowing at a traditional workshop, take a private cruise to St. Mark's Square, and admire the riches of St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs.
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What special dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes several special dining experiences such as a Welcome Dinner in Amsterdam, a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina dinner in Florence, a home-cooked meal with a local host in Rome, and a rousing dinner with wine at La Coupole in Paris.
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Are there any unique cultural experiences included in Rome?
Yes, in Rome, you will have exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit, where you can admire the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics and Bernini's first sculpture. Additionally, you will enjoy a home-cooked meal with a local host.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes travel on a high-speed Eurostar train from London to Europe via the Channel Tunnel, and you will travel in Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. The coaches are sanitized before the start of the tour and maintained to high standards.
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What kind of accommodations can I expect during the tour?
You will stay in various high-quality hotels such as the Hilton in Amsterdam, Marriott in Heidelberg, AC in Innsbruck, Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio in Venice, Room 007 Select in Rome, Adler Cavalieri in Florence, Astoria in Lucerne, and Crowne Plaza Paris - Republique in Paris.
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Are there any special activities included in Lucerne?
In Lucerne, you will embark on a scenic journey by cable car to the summit of Mount Pilatus to enjoy spectacular views and pristine mountain air. You will also see the emotive Lion Monument, stroll across the Chapel Bridge, and have the option to enjoy a cruise on Lake Lucerne.
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What is the group size for this tour?
The tour is designed for a small group, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.
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Are tips and gratuities included in the tour price?
Hotel and restaurant tips are included in the tour price, so you won't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency. However, gratuities for the tour director, drivers, and local guides are not included.
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Is there any free time during the tour for personal exploration?
Yes, the tour includes free time in several locations such as Venice, Florence, and Lucerne, allowing you to explore at your own pace, visit museums, shop, or simply relax.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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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.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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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.
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