Romantic European - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group
Romantic European - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group
Romantic European - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group
19 Days Starting in Amsterdam and ending in Paris
Visiting: Amsterdam, Wurzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Prague, Budapest, Vienna, Wörthersee, Venice, Rome, Vatican, Umbria, Florence, Lucerne, Stanserhorn, Paris
Tour operator:
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
20 - 30
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
From Prague to Vienna and onto Paris, this immersive tour of Europe takes in the mansions of Amsterdam, the Roman Empire relics of Rome and the breathtaking scenery of the Alps. Arrive at your Venice hotel by private boat, ahead of an exclusive dining experience at La Fenice restaurant, and sunset cocktails at Café Florian. In the Golden city of Prague, take your pick of Insight Choice experiences, touring the courtyard of a 1000-year-old Prague Castle and St Vitus Cathedral, or joining a Local Expert on an exploration of the city’s historic Jewish Quarter, with a stop at a local bakery to sample Trdelník—a traditional Czech pastry. Journey onwards through the countryside forests of Bohemia to Hungary for a scenic Budapest dinner cruise, gliding past the city’s UNESCO world heritage sites in style.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Accommodation: Hotel, Grand Amrâth Amsterdam.
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam
Meals Included: Dinner, with Wine
Welcome to Amsterdam, enjoy a day of leisure. Join your Travel Director at 17:00 for a Welcome Reception. Mingle and get to know your fellow travellers 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 : Rhine Valley To Würzburg
Location: Amsterdam, Wurzburg
Accommodation: Hotel, Hotel, Grand Amrâth Amsterdam.
Accommodation Name: Maritim Hotel Würzburg
Meals Included: Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Relax with a scenic drive along the Rhine Valley to Würzburg. See the mighty Marienburg Fortress – the immense baroque palace of the Prince Bishops and one of the most important landmarks in Germany. On arrival, visit the imposing Würzburg Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a Local Expert. Marvel at intricate decorations and lavish staterooms.
Day 3 : Rothenburg And Golden Prague
Location: Wurzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Prague
Accommodation: Hotel, Royal Prague.
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Prague
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, 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: Hotel, Royal Prague.
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Prague
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 through the Jewish Quarter and hear about the history, traditions and legends of the Jewish people and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry. 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 : Through Bohemia To Budapest
Location: Prague, Budapest
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Budapest.
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Start the day with a journey through the beautiful forested countryside of Bohemia. Journey to Hungary, following the River Danube to Budapest.In the evening, join a Local Expert to enjoy a scenic dinner cruise, whilst looking out over beautiful city views. Budapest boasts one of the most spectacular night time vistas, earning it the nickname 'Pearl of the Danube’.
Day 6 : The Flavours Of Budapest
Location: Budapest, Vienna
Accommodation: Hilton Vienna Park.
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your orientation takes your along the grand Andrassy Avenue to Heroe's Square. Stroll through the alleys of the Old Town of Buda and admire sweeping views from the Fisherman’s Bastion with a Local Expert.Stand atop Gellért Hill where the colossal Liberty Statue stands in front of the Citadella watching over the city. Marvel at extensive panoramic views as you look out over the famous river dividing Buda and Pest - the two sides linked by the mighty Chain Bridge and the elegant, newer Elizabeth Bridge. Continue your travels, past the Turul Monument, a large eagle statue overlooking the town of Tatabanya, to the Austrian border and through pleasant farming country to the imperial capital of Vienna.
Day 7 : Vienna And The Habsburgs
Location: Vienna
Accommodation: Hilton Vienna Park.
Accommodation Name: Hilton Vienna Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, there is the option to join a private tour of Maria Theresa's Schönbrunn Palace and formal gardens. Get your camera ready for a drive around the famous Ring Road. This grand boulevard, built along the lines of the old city walls, showcases many of the capital's architectural masterpieces, including the Opera House, magnificent Hofburg Imperial Residence and Parliament building. Later, join your Local Expert for a walk through Innere Stadt, the first district and historic core of Vienna. Sit down for traditional coffee and cake and mingle with locals at a cosy café.
Day 8 : Lake Wörthersee To Venice
Location: Vienna, Wörthersee, Venice
Accommodation: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio Venice.
Accommodation Name: Hilton Vienna Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
This day's route takes you past quiet villages, through Styria's forested mountains and into the Carinthian Lake District. Continue past Europe's warmest lake, the Wörthersee, to cross into Italy near Tarvisio. Then follow mountain valleys and cascading streams down to the Veneto Plain en route to the unique city of Venice. Arrive by private boat to your hotel. In the late afternoon and early evening, sip a cocktail at Caffè Florian, whilst you are serenaded by an ensemble of talented musicians. Afterwards, stroll past the Doges Palace and the famous 'Bridge of Sighs' to Principessa restaurant for a magical dinner. Indulge in traditional Venetian dishes that are enriched with inspiration from seasonal produce, before returning to your hotel.
Day 9 : The Magic Of 'La Serenissima' Relaxed Start
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio Venice.
Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, with Wine
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 centre. 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 10 : Villa Machiavelli And Rome
Location: Venice, Rome
Accommodation: room 007 Select Rome.
Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, with Wine
Head into the Apennine Mountains and the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany. Meet your Local Host for a guided tour through the house of the Italian Renaissance diplomat and writer, Nicolo Machiavelli, with an included special opening of his private office where he wrote 'The Prince'. Visit the Italian garden with views of the Florence Cathedral and the historic cellar, which has a secret underground tunnel connecting the cellars to the oldest restaurant in Italy. Savour a tasting of wines made from the vineyards surrounding the home, accompanied by delicious samples of local Tuscan fare. Your journey continues as you follow the course of the Tiber to your hotel in the Eternal City of Rome.
Day 11 : Papal And Imperial Rome
Location: Rome, Vatican, Rome
Accommodation: room 007 Select Rome.
Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select
Meals Included: Breakfast
With your Local Expert, visit the Vatican Museums. Insight provides special priority entry to avoid the crowds and gives you behind-the-scenes access to the Bramante Staircase, normally off-limits to the public. Inside the Sistine Chapel, admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling. Continue inside the cavernous St. Peter's Basilica, mother church of the Catholic faith, to see another Michelangelo masterpiece, the Pietà, as well as the splendid dome. Leave Vatican City to cross the Tiber and stand outside the Colosseum, imagining yourself back in the days of the gladiators. The afternoon is at leisure.
Day 12 : Umbria And Onto Florence Relaxed Start
Location: Rome, Umbria, Florence
Accommodation: Hotel, Adler Cavalieri Florence.
Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, with Wine
Meet chef Lorenzo at his family farm in Umbria. Explore the art of Italian cooking during an entertaining pasta demonstration and delicious Highlight Lunch accompanied by Orvieto Classico wine. Continue on to your hotel in Florence.
Day 13 : Renaissance Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation: Hotel, Adler Cavalieri Florence.
Accommodation Name: Hotel Adler Cavalieri
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin the morning by joining a Local Expert in Florence to view the multi-coloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. You also visit the open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces in Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the Renaissance capital. Perhaps take the opportunity to visit Pisa and see the famous Leaning Tower?
Day 14 : Across The Alps To Lucerne
Location: Florence, Lucerne
Accommodation: Hotel, Astoria Lucerne.
Accommodation Name: Hotel Adler Cavalieri
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head north towards 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, before travelling alongside towering mountains and past rushing torrents, down to scenic Lake Lucerne. Upon return in Lucerne, see the town's proud Lion Monument, carved into a limestone cliff and dedicated to the heroic Swiss Guards who died defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Then, take some time to stroll across the covered Chapel Bridge and see the baroque Jesuit Church.
Day 15 : Lucerne And Mt. Stanserhorn
Location: Lucerne, Stanserhorn, Lucerne
Accommodation: Hotel, Astoria Lucerne.
Accommodation Name: Hotel Astoria
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-top cable car powered by solar panels take you up the summit. Breathe 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.
With the day free, there is plenty of time for shopping for delectable chocolate in the traffic-free Old Town. Perhaps venture into the countryside for a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride and meet the local farmers? At night, you are offered a fine selection of restaurants to choose from for your Dine-Around Evening.
Day 16 : Sights And Delights Of Paris
Location: Lucerne, Paris
Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile Paris.
Accommodation Name: Hotel Astoria
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through the rural French country side of Alsace and Burgundy regions, 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 centre 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 17 : The Food And Flavours Of Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile Paris.
Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile
Meals Included: Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner
Your exploration of Paris today starts with an Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join an avid foodie 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, indulge in refined French cuisine during your Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole, frequently visited by the French entertainer Josephine Baker.
Day 18 : Au Revoir Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bid farewell to your travelling companions as your journey comes to an end. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08:00 and 11:00.
Day 19 : 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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Welcome Reception in Amsterdam
Join your Travel Director at 17:00 for a Welcome Reception. Mingle and get to know your fellow travellers 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.
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Dinner Cruise in Budapest
Enjoy a scenic dinner cruise and take in the city's nighttime beauty as you float along the Danube.
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Wine Tasting in Tuscany
Enjoy a tasting of locally made wines and sample delicious Tuscan snacks in the underground cellar of Machiavelli's home.
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Priority Access to Vatican Museums
Gain priority access into the Vatican Museums and admire the famous Bramante Staircase. Witness the genius of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and view the splendid dome of St. Peter's Basilica.
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Journey to Mount Stanserhorn
Embark on a spectacular journey to the summit of Mount Stanserhorn and appreciate unrivalled views of snow-capped peaks.
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Celebration Dinner in Paris
Indulge in refined French cuisine during your Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole, frequently visited by the French entertainer Josephine Baker.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travellers.
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Some Meals
Not all meals are covered.
Please refer to the itinerary for details. -
Optional Experiences
Costs for optional experiences and excursions are not included unless otherwise stated.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, minibar, and room service are not included.
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Tips and Gratuities
Tips and gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Airport Transfers Outside Scheduled Times
Airport transfers outside the scheduled tour dates and times are not included.
Check out our Q&As
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What countries does the Romantic European tour visit?
The Romantic European tour visits Germany, Czech Republic, Hungary, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, and France.
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What are some highlights of the tour?
Highlights of the tour include a stroll through the Jewish Quarter in Prague, a visit to St. Vitus Cathedral and Prague Castle, a dinner cruise in Budapest, wine tasting in Tuscany, priority access to the Vatican Museums, and a journey to the summit of Mount Stanserhorn.
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Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, some meals are included in the tour. Please refer to the itinerary for details on which meals are covered.
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What is the starting location of the tour?
The tour starts in Amsterdam.
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What is the ending location of the tour?
The tour ends in Paris.
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Are flights included in the tour package?
No, international and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Is travel insurance included?
No, travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travellers.
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Are there any optional experiences available?
Yes, costs for optional experiences and excursions are not included unless otherwise stated.
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What type of accommodation is provided?
The tour includes various types of accommodation, such as hotels in different cities. Specific hotel names and types are mentioned in the itinerary for each day.
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Is there a welcome reception?
Yes, there is a Welcome Reception in Amsterdam where you can mingle and get to know your fellow travellers.
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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
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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.
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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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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
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