Day 1 - London and Amsterdam
Say Farewell to the White Cliffs of Dover this morning as you head across the English Channel towards the French coast and the port town of Calais.
Journey through Belgium and arrive in Amsterdam.
Embark on a cruise of the city’s waterways where you can get to know your fellow travellers and talk with your Travel Director. The canal tour includes a complimentary dinner and a welcome drink.
Includes Welcome Reception.
Day 2 - Amsterdam, Rhine Cruise and Heidelberg
Today you will depart to St Goar by river cruise on the Rhine, passing splendid castles and abundant, terraced vineyards. Watch out for the Lorelei Rock so called after the mermaid of the same name who sang fishermen to their watery graves with her songs.
Enjoy picturesque views of the River Neckar from the imposing Heidelberg Castle.
In the afternoon, you will arrive at your hotel where you will dine and relax into the evening.
Includes Buffet Breakfast and Dinner.
Day 3 - Heidelberg, Schaffhausen and Lucerne
The Black Forest is your dramatic backdrop for the morning with a cultural look at cuckoo clock making. You will visit the splendid falls at Schaffhausen and appreciate the largest waterfall in Europe.
In the afternoon drive through beautiful alpine scenery to Switzerland and see panoramic views across Lake Lucerne.
Includes Buffet Breakfast
Optional Experiences
Swiss Folklore Evening And Dinner
Tonight we’ll enjoy a tasty Swiss meal, including the famous Swiss cheese fondue, in a typical restaurant. While enjoying dinner, you can also join in a lively folklore show which includes yodelling, flag-throwing and Alpine horn-blowing. Two drinks are also included.
Day 4 - Lucerne Orientation and Free Time
For the morning, you will take a stroll across the wooden Chapel Bridge, a 14th century covered structure containing painting on the interior.
The Lion Monument remembers the mass killing of the Swiss Guards in 1792 and it well worth a visit.
In the afternoon, spend some free time shopping in the old part of town, here you will find an array of souvenirs and special chocolate made in Switzerland.
You may like to think about taking an optional experience up one of the local mountains for some fresh mountain air and some stunning alpine views.
Includes Buffet Breakfast.
Optional Experiences
Mount Pilatus And Lake Cruise
We’ll ascend by cog-wheel train to Mount Pilatus’ summit, where you’ll have time to explore, admire the views, and breathe the pure air. Then, we’ll descent by cable-car to enjoy a scenic lake cruise. On certain departures this Optional may be operated in reverse.
Alpine Farm and Carriage Ride
A chance to get to know the Swiss, you’ll meet local farmers and enjoy a delightful countryside tour in horse drawn carriages. Soak up the stunning scenery as we trot around a typical rural community, en route to a working farm where you’ll savour local drinks and snacks.
Day 5 - Lucerne, Burgundy Wine Region and Paris
Cross into France today and drive through Alsace, noting the Maginot Line, a defense boundary constructed in the second world war to deter the advancing Germans.
Enjoy the scenic Burgundy countryside where you will see the grapes being grown for the many varieties of wine produced in this region. Particularly famous being the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vines.
As you drive into the city of Paris you may like to consider having dinner and seeing a Parisian Cabaret for which the city is renowned.
Includes Buffet Breakfast.
Optional Experiences
Moulin Rouge Cabaret And Dinner
Enjoy dinner and cabaret, including wine and champagne, at the world-famous Moulin Rouge – the original Paris cabaret. Immortalised by the award-winning film of the same name, this Parisian institution features 60 dancers and entertainers and over 1000 costumes!
Nouvelle Eve Cabaret And Dinner
Join us for dinner with wine included at one of the most prestigious cabaret shows in town, where you’ll watch an evening of exciting acts, stunning tableaux and wonderful entertainment – including the world famous Can-Can. A Parisian night you’ll never forget.
Day 6 - Paris Sightseeing and Free Time
The Arc de Triomphe, The Champs Élysées, and Opera House Magnifique. the former designed by Charles Garnier await you on this last full day of touring.
View the gorgeous city from the second level of the Eiffel Tower.
For the afternoon, you can either take a visit to the Palace of Versailles (Optional). Or spend the afternoon wandering Paris at your leisure.
For the evening, a good-bye dinner at a local eatery.
Includes Buffet Breakfast and Farewell Dinner.
Optional Experiences
Notre Dame And Latin Quarter
A guided drive through Paris’ bohemian Left Bank with our Local Specialist brings us to amazing Notre Dame to discover one of the world’s most famous Cathedrals and the epitome of Gothic architecture. Afterwards, take a stroll through the delightful Latin Quarter, a medieval maze of winding cobblestone alleyways where you’ll have free time to enjoy the sidewalk bistros, boutiques and hidden squares.
Seine Cruise And Paris Illuminations
Paris at night is a city transformed. Enjoy this superb ‘City of Light’ on a leisurely cruise along the River Seine. Afterwards, as we drive through this amazing city, we’ll stop at some vantage points for you to capture the fascinating sights on camera. In summer, this trip may take place before sunset.
Versailles Palace And Gardens
Built for the Sun King, Louis XIV, the Palace of Versailles was the envy of every European ruler. Your Local Specialist will take you through the State apartments and famous Hall of Mirrors, with free time to stroll the symmetrical tree-lined gardens. Please note: this optional is subject to availability.
Day 7 - Paris and London
This morning bid farewell to Paris and travel across the solemn battlefields of the Somme. Watching out for the Canadian War Memorial on Vimy Ridge before boarding a ferry in Calais bound for Dover. Say Au Revoir to Europe and then look out for the welcoming sight of the white cliffs that signify the Uk.
Arriving back in London with fantastic memories from your tour around Europe.
Includes Buffet Breakfast.