Highlights of Europe - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group, Summer

Highlights of Europe - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group, Summer

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14 Days From

$5904

$4949

Highlights of Europe - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group, Summer

14 Days Starting in Amsterdam, Netherlands and ending in Paris, France

Visiting: Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Florence, Lake Maggiore, Lucerne, Paris

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

E933ZN120

Specialist Group:

Family/Kids

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Balanced

Tour operated in:

English
From: $5904 $4949 Operator discount: -$708 Travel Club discount: -$247 -16%

NB: Prices correct on 09-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe with the "Highlights of Europe" tour, starting in Amsterdam and concluding in Paris. This classic summer adventure takes you through six captivating countries: Holland, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, and France. Experience the charm of Amsterdam's canals, the grandeur of Heidelberg Castle, and the breathtaking beauty of the Bavarian Alps. Delight in the romance of Venice, the historical wonders of Rome, and the artistic treasures of Florence. Enjoy authentic dining experiences, from a home-cooked Italian meal to a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina dinner. Discover the majestic Swiss Alps and the vibrant streets of Paris, with opportunities to explore local culture and cuisine. This tour offers a perfect blend of iconic landmarks, cultural insights, and culinary delights, ensuring a memorable European adventure.

Highlights

  • Amsterdam: Cruise along the waterways and discover architectural gems from the 17th Century.

  • Heidelberg: Explore the magnificent red sandstone castle and enjoy panoramic views of the Neckar Valley.

  • Innsbruck: Stroll through the picturesque Old Town and admire Baroque and Gothic architecture.

  • Venice: Cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace and Bridge of Sighs.

  • Rome: Discover the history and legends of the iconic Colosseum.

  • Florence: View the multi-colored marble cathedral and visit Signoria Square.

  • Lucerne: See the emotive Lion Monument and stroll across the Chapel Bridge.

  • Paris: Walk through the Montorgueil district and sample local treats and delicacies.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Amsterdam

Location: Amsterdam

Accommodation Name: Hilton, Amsterdam

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to Amsterdam, enjoy a day of leisure. Join your Travel Director for dinner. Mingle and get to know your fellow travelers as you cruise along some of the many quaint, tree-lined canals, to explore the heart of the Old City, before enjoying a pleasant evening of dinner and wine at a local restaurant.

Day 2: The Rhine Valley And Heidelberg

Location: Heidelberg

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 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 Name: Indigo - Sant'Elena, 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. Savor 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 Name: Indigo - Sant'Elena, 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 Name: Room 007 Select, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a center of celebration between December 24, 2024, and December 31, 2025. As festivities unfold, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure you make the most of your time as you visit the Eternal City. 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 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 Name: NH Firenze, 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, savor an authentic meal at a local trattoria in the heart of Florence.

Day 9: Lake Maggiore Relaxed Start

Location: Lake Maggiore

Accommodation Name: Simplon, Baveno

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel past Milan, the capital of Lombardy, as you journey north to the beautiful Italian Lake District, a favorite retreat of the rich and famous where Alpine scenery combines with luxuriant subtropical vegetation. Relax and enjoy an afternoon at leisure at this popular resort and beautiful lake. Perhaps choose to take a cruise to the lovely Isola Bella for a guided tour of the incredible palace and stunning Botanical Gardens? 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 10: The Alps And Onto Lucerne Relaxed Start

Location: Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, enjoy your last moments among the charming Italian Lake District before your travels continue across the Swiss border. Explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-top cable car powered by solar panels take you up the summit. Take in the pristine mountain air and, on a clear day, witness views as far as Alsace and the Black Forest in Germany. Walk along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, with the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora. Continue to lakeside Lucerne where 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

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. With 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?

Day 12: Sights And Delights Of Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris

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 Flavors Of Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris

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 traveling companions as your journey comes to an end. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport.

What's Included

  • Choice Highlights

    Choose between two carefully selected activities in Paris, including a walk through a car-free, pedestrianized neighborhood and a food lover's tour sampling local treats.

  • Top Rated Highlights

    Experience top-rated highlights such as a cruise along Amsterdam's waterways, a visit to Heidelberg Castle, and a tour of Innsbruck's Old Town.

  • Make Travel Matter

    Participate in experiences that support sustainable development goals, such as a glassblowing workshop in Venice and a solar-powered cable car ride to Mount Stanserhorn.

  • Authentic Dining

    Enjoy authentic dining experiences, including a Welcome Dinner in Amsterdam, a prosecco tasting in Veneto, and a home-cooked meal in Rome.

  • Accommodation

    Stay at a selection of comfortable hotels, including the Hilton Amsterdam, Marriott Hotel Heidelberg, and Le Méridien Etoile in Paris.

  • Transport

    Travel through scenic landscapes such as the Apennine Mountains and Tuscany, with transport provided to various destinations including Rome and Paris.

  • Dining Summary

    The tour includes 6 dinners with wine and 13 breakfasts.

  • Additional Included Highlights

    Enjoy personal radio headsets, hotel and restaurant tips, taxes, porterage charges, and complimentary Wi-Fi on the coach and in hotels.

  • Insight Experiences

    Gain exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome during an after-hours visit.

  • Well-being

    Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned coach, featuring double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    International flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as a cruise to the island of Burano and a visit to the Accademia Gallery in Florence are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included.

  • Transfers Outside Scheduled Times

    Transfers are only included if arrival and departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.

    Transfers outside these times are not included.

Mode of Transport

Head into the Apennine Mountains and venture through the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria. Follow the course of the Tiber to your hotel in the Eternal City of Rome.

Accommodation

Stay at the Hilton Amsterdam, located in the elegant Old South district of Amsterdam. Enjoy the Marriott Hotel Heidelberg, located in the heart of Heidelberg. Relax at the AC Hotel Innsbruck, located in the heart of the Alps. Experience the Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena, a peaceful sanctuary in the bustling city of Venice. Enjoy the comforts of Room 007 Select in Rome. Stay at the NH Firenze in Florence, located close to the historical center. Relax at the Hotel Simplon in Baveno, with views of Lake Maggiore. Enjoy the modern comforts of the Hotel Astoria in Lucerne. Stay at Le Méridien Etoile in Paris, located close to the Champs Élysées.

Dining Summary

  • 6 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 13 Breakfast (B)

Additional Included Highlights

  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
  • If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Insight Experiences

  • Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini's first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.

Well-being

  • Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as witnessing the ancient skill of glassblowing in Venice, a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome, and a journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a solar-powered cable car in Switzerland.

  • Are there any special dining experiences during the tour?

    Yes, the tour offers several authentic dining experiences including a Welcome Dinner in Amsterdam, a home-cooked meal with a local host in Rome, a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina dinner in Florence, and a Dine-Around Evening in Baveno with a choice of local restaurants.

  • What are some of the highlights of the Paris segment of the tour?

    In Paris, you can choose to explore the Montorgueil district or join a local food lover to sample local treats. The tour also includes a visit to landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, and the Champs Élysées.

  • What cultural activities are included in Venice?

    In Venice, the tour includes a visit to a traditional glassblowing workshop and a private cruise to St. Mark's Square to see the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica.

  • How does the tour support sustainable tourism?

    The tour supports sustainable tourism through experiences like the glassblowing workshop in Venice, which helps preserve traditional crafts, and the solar-powered cable car ride to Mount Stanserhorn, which supports clean energy initiatives.

  • 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.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • 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.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • 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.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

Reviews of this operator

Peggy Lindenborn  

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02-Nov-2021

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily is a delightful trip and our travel guides and driver, Enzo, Chris and Greg were amazing and made the trip very memorable. We saw so many places and had great experiences along the way! Thanks to them for such a wonderful vacation.!

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Trusted Customer  

Best of Spain & Portugal

11-Jan-2023

Great itinerary, good pace, tour director was friendly and very knowledgeable and organised. Bus was very spacious and driver was great. Yes would recommend insight to friends and families

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31-Oct-2021

The number is our group was small which meant we got to know each other. Our tour guide, Laura Spiers, was excellent as was our driver. The food was good, and of course everything we saw in Iceland was beautiful and educational.

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08-Nov-2021

The trip was fantastic. Everything was well planned and exceeded my expectations. All insight personal were courteous helpful and professional Ann Manual and Kevin were a topnotch team There was attention to every detail and at all times felt safe and always a personal touch to the trip. The motor coach was clean and roomy and there was multiple wipe downs during the day All hotels were top notch and all staff at the hotels and restaurants were helpful and courteous I would recommend this trip as it gave you a fantastic view of the natural wonders of the the West.

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This trip is absolutely amazing! Worth every Penny! Our Tour guide did not Disappoint.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations 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.

  • 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.