Traditional Europe
Traditional Europe
Traditional Europe
18 Days Starting in Amsterdam, Netherlands and ending in Paris, France
Visiting: Amsterdam, Cologne, Heidelberg, Lucerne, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Pompeii, Capri, Florence, Pisa, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Avignon, Paris
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ETRAZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe with the "Traditional Europe" tour. This cultural adventure takes you through the Netherlands, Germany, France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Italy, Vatican City, and Monaco. Discover iconic cities like Amsterdam, Rome, and Paris, and explore hidden gems such as Colmar and Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Experience the rich history and vibrant cultures of each destination, from the ancient ruins of Pompeii to the artistic treasures of Florence. Enjoy unique experiences like a glassblowing demonstration in Venice and a traditional Tyrolean lunch in the Austrian Alps. Travel in comfort with expert guides, luxury coaches, and cherry-picked accommodations. With scenic cruises, guided tours, and ample free time, this tour offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. Whether you're admiring the Eiffel Tower or cruising the canals of Venice, this journey promises memories to last a lifetime.
Must-see Highlights
- Explore Rome, Pompeii, Capri, Assisi, Florence and Paris
- Discover Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Colmar, Lucerne, Vaduz - the capital of Liechtenstein, Innsbruck, Venice, Sorrento, Pisa, Monaco, Nice, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Avignon and Lyon
- Visit a glassblowing factory in Venice
- View the ancient sites in Rome, the Lion Monument in Lucerne, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Eiffel Tower in Paris
- See the Lorelei Rock in Rhine Valley, the Benedictine Abbey of Monte Cassino and the vineyards of Burgundy
- Scenic Cruise through Amsterdam's canals, along the Rhine River, by private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice and to the Isle of Capri
Make Travel Matter®
Venice: Discover the ancient skill of Venetian glassblowing and play a part in preserving this traditional craft. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Be My Guest
: Be welcomed to the Albert's home where their family have farmed the land for generations. Enjoy a traditional Tyrolean lunch surrounded by spectacular scenery.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Accommodation: Leonardo Hotel Amsterdam Rembrandtpark
Accommodation Name: Mercure City
Meals Included: Dinner
All the highlights of Europe lie ahead on this epic journey from the Netherlands to Austria, Italy to France. Spend the day exploring Amsterdam on foot, by bike or tram. Later, meet your Travel Director and travel companions and board a glass-topped boat for a Welcome Reception canal cruise, including a light dinner and a drink as you navigate the city’s labyrinthine canals lined with centuries-old gabled façades.
Day 2: Admire Cologne And Cruise In The Rhineland
Location: Cologne
Accommodation: Maritim Darmstadt
Accommodation Name: Maritim Darmstadt
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel east, crossing the border into Germany bound for Cologne. Here, you’ll see the iconic twin spires of its imposing Cathedral, said to be the final resting place of the Three Wise Men. We cruise from Boppard to St. Goar along the mighty Rhine, lined with medieval villages and castles that cling to the hills. This evening, we stay in the Rhineland and enjoy dinner at our hotel.
Day 3: Enjoy Heidelberg Then Drive Into The Alps
Location: Heidelberg
Accommodation: Schweizerhof
Accommodation Name: Schweizerhof
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The imposing ruins of Heidelberg Castle feature on our drive through this vibrant university city en route to the quaint medieval town of Colmar. Here we will enjoy an orientation stroll and free time for lunch. Our journey continues through the picturesque vineyards of Alsace en route to our hotel in the stunning mountain retreat of Engelberg, with a free evening to enjoy the town.
Day 4: Uncover Lucerne’S Treasures
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation: Schweizerhof
Accommodation Name: Schweizerhof
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend the day exploring Lucerne. Pay tribute to the Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending Louise XVI during the French Revolution at the mournful Lion Monument, then admire the splendor of the flower-lined Chapel Bridge with its 17th-century paintings. Spend the rest of the day at leisure or consider joining an Optional Experience up one of the nearby peaks for spectacular panoramic views before returning to Engelberg.
Day 5: Journey To Liechtenstein And Innsbruck
Location: Innsbruck
Accommodation: Grauer Bär
Accommodation Name: Grauer Bär
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Admire rugged alpine scenery en route to the Principality of Liechtenstein, stopping in its capital, Vaduz. Cross the Austrian border and continue along the Arlberg route for a journey filled with pinch-me moments. Snow-capped mountains surround you as you travel through the stunning scenery of the Tyrol. Enjoy the Tyrolean countryside while you Connect With Locals over lunch at a Be My Guest experience before arriving in Innsbruck. Visit the Old Town where you’ll see the famous Golden Roof completed in 1500 for Emperor Maximilian I to mark his wedding. Admire the fascinating crystal installations and browse for precious gifts and souvenirs at the Swarovski Crystal Worlds Store.
Day 6: Onwards To Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Albergo Quattro Fontane Lido
Accommodation Name: Albergo Quattro Fontane Lido
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross the extraordinary Europa Bridge, rising almost 200 meters above the Wipp Valley, following the Brenner Pass past alpine pastures and pine-clad peaks into Italy and the magical island city of Venice. Spend this evening at leisure, gliding by gondola through the city's canals, enjoying a Campari spritz in a quiet piazza or watching the sun set over the romantic Grand Canal.
Day 7: Discover The Floating City Of Venice Make Travel Matter
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Albergo Quattro Fontane Lido
Accommodation Name: Albergo Quattro Fontane Lido
Meals Included: Breakfast
Witness the centuries-old tradition of Venetian glassmaking. This is a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience which helps to preserve the strong tradition of glassblowing for which Venice is justifiably famous. You’ll learn how the talented master craftsmen use the same techniques their forefathers did to create the delicate artworks which adorn homes worldwide, perhaps inspiring you to buy a souvenir to remind you of this special visit. Later, board a private launch for your journey through the canals of Venice to St. Mark's Square where you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city's centuries-old history and view the ornate Doge's Palace and Bridge of Sighs. Spend the afternoon exploring Venice your way, which could mean finding a tucked away bacaro to soak up some of the local atmosphere, a cruise around the lagoon or zigzagging up the Le Mercerie shopping street.
Day 8: All Roads Lead To Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Barceló Aran Mantegna
Accommodation Name: Midas Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel over the green and golden landscapes of the Apennine hills through beautiful Tuscany and Umbria, arriving in Rome where you'll spend the next two nights. This evening is yours to embrace la dolce vita. Relax in the Piazza Navona with an espresso, sit on the Spanish Steps or savor a tasty gelato.
Day 9: Explore Ancient Rome And The Vatican City
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Barceló Aran Mantegna
Accommodation Name: Midas Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Rome with a Local Specialist who will take you on a sightseeing tour. Cross the Tiber River into Ancient Rome to see the mighty Colosseum where brave gladiators once fought to the applause of exhilarated spectators, then enjoy views of Circus Maximus which once hosted chariot races. The rest of the day is yours to explore the sights and sounds of this remarkable city. Ramble through Rome's grand boulevards, shop up a storm on the Via Condotti or perhaps take an Optional Excursion to imagine yourself a citizen of Ancient Rome as you explore the Roman Forum.
Day 10: The Ruins Of Pompeii With Sunny Sorrento
Location: Pompeii
Accommodation: Johanna Park
Accommodation Name: Johanna Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a scenic drive through the vineyards of Frascati into the Campania region where we'll meet a Local Specialist who will share the fascinating story of Pompeii, a city buried in ash and lost for centuries following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. We arrive in the sophisticated seaside retreat of Sorrento this evening where we will spend the night.
Day 11: Sail To Capri Then Onwards To Assisi
Location: Capri
Accommodation: Casa Leonori
Accommodation Name: Casa Leonori
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross the deep blue waters of the Bay of Naples to the beautiful Isle of Capri, ascending by funicular to Capri Town where we will join our Local Specialist for a walking tour. Traveling north, we view the restored Abbey of Monte Cassino, the site of a bloody World War II battle, arriving later in mystical Assisi to view the Basilica of St. Francis featuring spectacular frescoes by Giotto with a Local Specialist.
Day 12: Through Tuscany To Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation: Grand Mediterraneo
Accommodation Name: Grand Mediterraneo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Beautiful Tuscan and Umbrian landscapes that have inspired painters and poets for centuries follow our journey to Florence, the 'Cradle of the Renaissance'. We join a Local Specialist on an included walking tour to see the city's spectacular heritage, architecture and open-air art, including views of the marble Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio. Visit the Piazza della Signoria, Florence’s political hub centuries ago, and learn about the quality and workmanship of one of this city's historic industries at a demonstration of Florentine leathercraft.
Day 13: Uncover Pisa, Monaco And The French Riviera
Location: Pisa
Accommodation: Novotel Aéroport Cap 3000
Accommodation Name: Novotel Aéroport Cap 3000
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to Pisa and its Square of Miracles to see the Leaning Tower and its imposing Baptistery. Leaving the sights, sounds and flavors of Italy behind, we visit the playground of Monaco and view the Royal Palace before arriving on the French Riviera.
Day 14: Discover Artistic Saint-Paul-De-Vence
Location: Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Accommodation: Novotel Aéroport Cap 3000
Accommodation Name: Novotel Aéroport Cap 3000
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tread in the footsteps of famous French actors and artists who for centuries have regarded the medieval town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence as a haven. Spend the afternoon at leisure or perhaps join an Optional Experience to see spectacular views of one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe and pay an aromatic visit to the historic Fragonard perfumery to learn how French fragrances are crafted before trying some specialties from the region at a local restaurant.
Day 15: Journey Through Papal Avignon To Lyon Make Travel Matter
Location: Avignon
Accommodation: Mercure Center Saxe Lafayette
Accommodation Name: Mercure Center Saxe Lafayette
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit what was once the center of Christendom in the Middle Ages, the papal city of Avignon. Here, you will see the Palais des Papes, the Cathedral and famous Pont d'Avignon, which have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about the spiritual significance of this place. You'll travel next to the historically strategic city of Lyon. This is a city that lights up magically at night, so be sure to take to the streets and admire its beauty.
Day 16: Travel Through Burgundy To Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Evergreen Laurel
Accommodation Name: Evergreen Laurel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive through the vineyards and countryside of Burgundy, before continuing north to Paris. This afternoon, explore Paris with your Local Specialist. Wonder at the iconic Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élys��es and magnificent bridges over the river Seine and enjoy a stroll through the Latin Quarter.
Day 17: Explore Magical Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Evergreen Laurel
Accommodation Name: Evergreen Laurel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Start your morning at leisure, perhaps stroll along the famous Champs-Élysées and people-watch from a local cafe, or take an Optional Experience to explore the gilded Palace of Versailles. Later, celebrate your journey dining with your fellow travelers and consider joining a cruise along the famous river Seine.
Day 18: Journey Home
Location: Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today bid adieu to your fellow travelers and Travel Director at the end of your memorable holiday.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver.
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Accommodation is provided in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted.
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour package.
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
The tour covers all hotel tips, charges, and local taxes.
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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Daily breakfast and up to half of your evening meals are included.
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Travel is provided in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Optional Experiences and free time
The tour offers optional experiences and free time for personal exploration.
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Eurostar high-speed train from Paris to London
The Eurostar high-speed train from Paris to London is included in the tour.
What's Not Included
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Optional excursions
Optional excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Flights to and from the starting and ending points
Flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
Dining Summary
- 7 Dinner (D)
- 17 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury with an air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, enjoy scenic cruises, and experience the Eurostar high-speed train from Paris to London, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels like the Mercure City in Amsterdam, Maritim Darmstadt in the Rhineland, and Albergo Quattro Fontane Lido in Venice, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to a glassblowing factory in Venice, where you can witness the ancient skill of Venetian glassmaking. Additionally, there is a 'Be My Guest' experience where you will enjoy a traditional Tyrolean lunch at a local family's home in the Tyrolean countryside.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries. There are also scenic cruises through Amsterdam's canals, along the Rhine River, and by private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice and to the Isle of Capri. Additionally, the Eurostar high-speed train is used from Paris to London.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, breakfast is provided daily, and up to half of your evening meals are included. There is also a traditional Tyrolean lunch included as part of the 'Be My Guest' experience.
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What are some of the key sightseeing highlights of the tour?
The tour includes exploring major cities like Rome, Pompeii, Capri, Assisi, Florence, and Paris. You will also discover Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Colmar, Lucerne, Vaduz, Innsbruck, Venice, Sorrento, Pisa, Monaco, Nice, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Avignon, and Lyon. Key sights include the ancient sites in Rome, the Lion Monument in Lucerne, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
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What is the starting and ending point of the tour?
The tour starts in Amsterdam and ends in Paris.
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Is there any free time during the tour for personal exploration?
Yes, there are several opportunities for free time during the tour, such as exploring Amsterdam, Venice, Rome, and Paris at your leisure. Optional experiences are also available for those who wish to explore further.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD 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 trafalgar 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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Terms and Conditions
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