European Discovery - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Small Group

European Discovery - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Small Group

Amsterdam
Amsterdam

Amsterdam

Day 1
Würzburg, Germany
Würzburg

Würzburg, Germany

Day 2
Venice

A gondola journey through the canals of Venice, Italy

Days 6-7
Rome

The famous Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna, Rome, Italy

Days 8-9
Florence

Florence, Italy

Day 10
Cinque Terre

Village of Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Italy

Day 11
View of the Peace Arch in Milan, Italy
Milan

View of the Peace Arch in Milan, Italy

Day 12
Paris
Paris

Paris

Days 14-16

Map
57 Views
16 Days From

$8140

$8060

European Discovery - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Small Group

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

Visiting: Amsterdam, Würzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Prague, Salzburg, Venice, Rome, Vatican City, Florence, Cinque Terre, Milan, Lake Lugano, Saint Gotthard Tunnel, Lake Lucerne, Lucerne, Paris

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $8140 $8060 (USD) Barrhead discount: -$80

NB: Prices correct on 22-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

From Amsterdam to Rome and onto Paris, this grand tour takes in Cinque Terre, abundant Florence sightseeing and a delectable Lucerne Dine Around evening. Your perfect introduction to the Netherlands is a curated cruise through the canals led by local experts. Onwards in style into Germany, the Rhine's UNESCO world heritage sites give way to the golden city of Prague—where your local guide will lead you through the hilltop castle courtyards and the grandiose St Vitus Cathedral or through the Jewish Quarter. A tour of Italy serves up the gondola-filled canals of Venice and the opulence of Rome, before Swiss delights beckon in Lucerne. Paris dazzles last with a chance to shop the city's boutiques like a local and enjoy views of iconic sights, including Notre-Dame and the Louvre.

Highlights

  • Amsterdam: Cruise along the waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.

  • Prague: Explore the courtyards of the Castle and visit the imposing St. Vitus Cathedral, or stroll through the Jewish Quarter and taste traditional Czech pastry.

  • Wurzburg: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wurzburg Residence and stand on the statue-lined Alte Mainbrucke.

  • Salzburg: Visit the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace and see Mozart's birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse.

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

  • Rome: Experience Rome through the eyes of a local, exploring vibrant backstreets and ancient treasures.

  • Cinque Terre: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site with dedicated time to explore one of the charming fishing villages.

  • Paris: Meander along the picturesque banks of the River Seine, exploring iconic sights like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower.

Places You'll See

jesserobertos

Gondolas In Venice, Italy

St Mark's Square, Venice, Italy

The Grand Canal With Rialto Bridge In Venice, Italy

St Peter's Basilica Over The Aelian Bridge, Rome, Italy

Sunset View Over Piazza Navona In Rome, Italy

Trevi Fountain, Rome

The Uffizi Gallery In Florence, Italy

Aerial View Of Ponte Vecchio Bridge, Florence, Italy

Village Of Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Italy

Milan Cathedral, Milan, Italy

Paris, France

The Eiffel Tower

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. This evening join your Travel Director for a 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: Legends Along The Rhine

Location: Würzburg

Accommodation Name: Maritim, Würzburg

Meals Included: Dinner

Cross into Germany, through the Rhine Valley and into Würzburg, where there is time to stroll through the heart of the Old Town and down to the Alte Mainbrücke, the 16th century bridge over the River Main, adorned with sandstone statues. With a Local Expert, visit the imposing Würzburg Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at intricate decorations and lavish staterooms boasting with French, Austrian and Venetian influences.

Day 3: Rothenburg And Golden Prague

Mr Kane!
Steffen Breitung
Panagiotis Myrelis

Location: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Prague

Accommodation Name: NH Collection Prague City.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Venture to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the most well-preserved town on the Romantic Road. Continue east to the Czech border, passing the town of Pilsen renowned for its beer, to reach the Golden City of Prague. In the evening, perhaps take a river cruise through the heart of the city?

Day 4: Prague, City Of A Hundred Spires

Location: Prague

Accommodation Name: NH Collection Prague City.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore Prague with Insight Choice. Choose to walk the courtyards of the Castle and visit the imposing St. Vitus Cathedral. Alternatively, join your Local Expert for a walk through the Jewish Quarter to learn about a different side of the history of Prague and taste Tredlník, traditional chimney cakes. Then, the city is all yours to explore. Perhaps rummage through the renowned antique stores or shop for the finest Bohemian crystal? In the evening, why not enjoy an Optional Experience in the Czech countryside?

Day 5: Salzburg, City Of Mozart Relaxed Start

Location: Salzburg

Accommodation Name: Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Center

Meals Included: Dinner

Journey through the Czech Republic and head south across the Austrian border to Salzburg, the city of Mozart and The Sound of Music. Accompanied by a Local Expert, explore the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace, featuring the fountains and statues made famous in the "Do, Re, Mi" scene. Later, visit Residence Square and its iconic fountain, where Maria performed "I Have Confidence." Admire the imposing fortress, the grand cathedral, and Mozart’s birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse. In the evening, enjoy a Farm-to-Table dining experience at a local organic farm, set in a charming old barn or courtyard. Indulge in homemade dishes and locally crafted cider.

Day 6: The Tauern Mountains To Venice Relaxed Start

Location: Salzburg, Venice

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Salzburg to shop for local marzipan specialties. Perhaps take the opportunity to marvel at impressive views atop Kehlsteinhaus - the Eagle’s Nest - a unique example of historic architecture in a stunning alpine setting? Later, stunning scenery surrounds you as you travel down the Tauern Mountains to cross the Italian border. Continue to the romantic city of Venice, Queen of the Adriatic, where your hotel is perfectly located in one of the quietest peaceful and authentic Venetian districts.

Day 7: The Magic Of 'La Serenissima' Relaxed Start

Location: Venice

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, prepare to embrace this most romantic city. See the immense Campanile and Doge's Palace on St. Mark's Square, connected to the ancient prisons by the Bridge of Sighs. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you witness the skill of glassblowers on a visit to a traditional arts center. The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps shop in the small arcades or why not cruise the Venetian lagoon to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine?

Day 8: Onto The Eternal City Of Rome

Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: Bettoja Massimo D'Azeglio, Rome

Meals Included: Dinner

2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a center of celebration. 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 the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria. Your journey continues as you follow the course of the Tiber to your hotel in the Eternal City of Rome. This evening, enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, welcomed by the Rector of the basilica. Admire the stunning 9th-century Byzantine mosaics illuminated for this exclusive visit as you view the legendary well and renowned chapels followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 9: Rome With The Locals Relaxed Start

Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: Bettoja Massimo D'Azeglio, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rome is about art, antiquity, piazzas and palaces, and your morning walking tour with a Local Expert includes this in abundance. Toss a coin into the spectacular Trevi Fountain and see the best-preserved monument from the Roman period - the Pantheon, before enjoying free time to do as the Romans do, in Piazza Navona. Perhaps join a tour inside the Catacombs with our local expert. This evening, enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, welcomed by the Rector of the basilica. Admire the stunning 9th-century Byzantine mosaics illuminated for this exclusive visit as you view the legendary well and renowned chapels.

Day 10: The Vatican And Florence

Location: Vatican City, Florence

Accommodation Name: Villa Neroli, Florence

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start the day with your Local Expert they introduce you to the grandeur of the city, starting with the Vatican State, the richest community in the world. Visit the Vatican Museums, full of priceless treasures collected by the Popes. Enjoy fast-track entry to avoid the crowds and admire the Papal art collection. Once inside the Sistine Chapel, admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling. Your travels continue through peaceful Umbria and Tuscany, to arrive at 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 an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Take time to gaze at Neptune and David as you explore the historic city center.

Day 11: The Cinque Terre And Italian Riviera

Location: Cinque Terre

Accommodation Name: B and B Park Hotel Suiss, Santa Margherita Ligure

Meals Included: Dinner

The famous Italian Riviera and the Cinque Terre are a highlight of your journey. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes. With a Local Expert, appreciate the views as you approach one of the picturesque fishing villages by boat (weather permitting). Please note that the cruise is weather dependent. Spend time exploring the old medieval quarter or the popular sandy beach. Continue to your resort on the Italian Riviera. Savor authentic Italian cuisine with a delicious dinner.

Day 12: Across The Alps To Lucerne

Location: Milan, Lake Lugano, Saint Gotthard Tunnel, Lake Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Astoria Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast

Pass Milan as you head north for the Italian Lake District via Lake Lugano. Continue into the heart of the Swiss Alps, passing through the Saint Gotthard Tunnel, one of the longest road tunnels in the world. Travel alongside towering mountains and past rushing torrents, down to scenic Lake Lucerne, where you are leisure for the rest of the afternoon.

Day 13: Lucerne’S Lakes, Mountains And Lion

meeta
Gilda Giorgi

Location: Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Astoria Lucerne

Meals Included: Dinner

In the morning, explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-roof deck cable car, powered by solar panels, takes you to the summit. Stroll along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, and discover the local wildlife and flora. Upon returning to Lucerne, visit the town's iconic Lion Monument, carved into a limestone cliff and dedicated to the heroic Swiss Guards who died defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll across the covered Chapel Bridge and admire the Baroque Jesuit Church. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure—perhaps shop for fine watches and delectable Swiss chocolates. This evening, enjoy a selection of fine restaurants to choose from during your Dine-Around evening.

Day 14: Sights And Delights Of Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey through the rural French countryside of Burgundy, famous for its vineyards and wines, to arrive in the vibrant City of Light. During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral and the imposing facades of the Louvre. 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 15: The Food And Flavors Of Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Dinner

Start your day with an Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join an avid foodie to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. In the evening, indulge in refined French cuisine during your Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole, frequently visited by the French entertainer Josephine Baker.

Day 16: 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 Prague and Paris.

  • Top Rated Highlights

    Experience guided tours and visits to iconic landmarks such as Amsterdam's canals, Wurzburg Residence, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Salzburg's Mirabell Palace, Venice's St. Mark's Square, Rome's ancient sites, Florence's Duomo, Cinque Terre, and Paris's iconic sights.

  • Make Travel Matter

    Participate in experiences that support sustainable practices, such as glassblowing in Venice and conservation talks on Mount Stanserhorn.

  • Authentic Dining

    Enjoy local dining experiences including a Welcome Dinner in Amsterdam, Farm-to-Table dining in Salzburg, and a Dine-Around Evening in Lucerne.

  • Additional Included Highlights

    Personal radio headsets, hotel and restaurant tips, taxes, porterage charges, and complimentary Wi-Fi are included.

  • Insight Experiences

    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, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.

  • Transport

    Travel in style and comfort aboard a luxurious, air-conditioned coach with double the standard legroom, ensuring a relaxing journey through Europe. Enjoy the convenience of scheduled airport transfers and the freedom to explore with personal radio headsets during guided tours.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Experiences

    Optional experiences such as a river cruise in Prague or a visit to the Catacombs in Rome are not included.

  • Transfers Outside Scheduled Times

    Transfers are only available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, you may need to purchase transfers or make your own arrangements.

Dining Summary

  • 7 Dinner (D)
  • 15 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.
  • : Visit the Vatican Museums, witness the genius of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and see St. Peter's Basilica.

Travel Director

  • "One food I really love introducing my guests to is tramezzini sandwiches because they are a real art form in Venice. For the locals it is a quick inexpensive bite to get them through the day...best eaten standing up at the bar!"
  • "It's magical to see how a group of guests comes together over the course of our trip. I can always tell when that's happening because suddenly the enthusiasm is palpable."
  • "Paris is truly a delight to all the senses – seeing the iconic architecture, hearing about the history, smelling the wonderful bakeries and tasting the local specialties during our foodie walk."

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.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style and comfort aboard a luxurious, air-conditioned coach with double the standard legroom, ensuring a relaxing journey through Europe. Enjoy the convenience of scheduled airport transfers and the freedom to explore with personal radio headsets during guided tours.

Accommodation

Stay in a variety of comfortable accommodations including Hilton Amsterdam, Maritim Wurzburg, NH Collection Prague City, Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Center, Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio in Venice, Bettoja Massimo D'Azeglio in Rome, Villa Neroli in Florence, B and B Park Hotel Suiss in Santa Margherita Ligure, and Astoria Lucerne, culminating at Le Méridien Etoile in Paris.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes exclusive experiences such as a private after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome, where you can admire the 9th-century Byzantine mosaics. Additionally, you will witness the ancient skill of glassblowing in Venice and have the opportunity to learn about local wildlife and flora during a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger on Mount Stanserhorn.

  • Are there any special dining experiences during the tour?

    Yes, the tour offers several authentic dining experiences. In Amsterdam, you will enjoy a delightful dinner with wine at a local restaurant. In Salzburg, there is a Farm-to-Table dining experience featuring homemade Austrian dishes. In Lucerne, you can choose from a selection of restaurants for a Dine-Around Evening. In Paris, you will join a local food lover to sample local treats and delicacies, and later enjoy a Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole.

  • What are some of the highlights of the tour in Prague?

    In Prague, you have the choice to explore the courtyards of the Castle and visit St. Vitus Cathedral or take a walk through the Jewish Quarter with a Local Expert to learn about the history of Prague's Jewish community and taste traditional Trdelník pastry. The city is then yours to explore, with options like a river cruise or shopping for Bohemian crystal.

  • What sustainable practices are part of the tour?

    The tour includes experiences that support sustainable practices, such as witnessing the traditional craft of glassblowing in Venice, which supports the survival of this ancient art. Additionally, the journey to Mount Stanserhorn involves a solar-powered cable car, and there is an opportunity to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger about local wildlife and flora.

  • What can I expect during the visit to the Vatican in Rome?

    During the visit to the Vatican, you will have fast-track entry to the Vatican Museums, allowing you to avoid the crowds. You will admire the Papal art collection and Michelangelo's famous ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. The tour also includes a visit to St. Peter's Basilica.

  • 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

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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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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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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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1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Sunday

Jul 19, 2025 - Aug 03, 2025
$8200 $8120 (USD)

Barrhead discount: -$80 (USD)

Saturday - Sunday

Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025
$8140 $8060 (USD)

Barrhead discount: -$80 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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