DAY 1: London - Cambridge - Yorkshire
![London - Cambridge - Yorkshire]()
This Europe and Great Britain tour begins with a trip from London through the scenic English countryside to Cambridge, a city famed for its impressive university! Visit some of the historical buildings, browse a few of the university museums, and be sure to try punting on the river. Take some to relax and enjoy the scenery before continuing on to York. An afternoon in York offers a fascinating orientation tour with historic stories and views of fine English architecture. End your day with a group dinner where you will be served a traditional Sunday roast (beef, chicken, or vegetarian nut-roast), with all the trimmings as well as Yorkshire pudding, and a chocolate brownie to complete your meal.
Experiences
Cambridge punting trip: Take part in the age-old Cambridge tradition of punting down the river on a punt (a long flat-bottomed boat). Cruise down the River Cam and take in the sights and surroundings along the way.
Orientation tour of York: Take an orientation tour around this historic walled city with your tour leader. This historic city was founded by ancient Rome, and is filled with intriguing medieval architecture. See highlights including Micklegate Bar, the city walls, Ouse, Shambles, York Chocolate Story, Swinegate, Barley Hall, and York Minster.
Dinner in York: Enjoy dinner with the group at a local dinner in York.
DAY 2: Hadrian's Wall - Jedburgh - Edinburgh
![Hadrian's Wall - Jedburgh - Edinburgh]()
Start your day visiting the Angel of the North. This angel sculpture made from steel is 20m tall and its wings measure 54 metres across. Then, move on to Hadrian’s Wall, which was built by hand in 122 AD. Jedburgh is your next stop. This city is most notable for its links to historical warfare and royalty. Explore the captivating city and marvel at the architecture lining the streets, while there, Jedburgh Abbey is a must-see. Finally, sit back and watch the gorgeous Scottish landscapes roll by as you make your way to the capital city. Once in Edinburgh, your Expat Explore leader will take you on an orientation tour and evening drive before you turn in for the night.
Experiences
Angel of the North: Photo stop at the incredible steel structure of the Angel of the North.
Hadrian’s Wall: Marvel at the defensive wall built by during Emperor Hadrian’s reign.
Jedburgh: Visit the picturesque border town.
Dinner at an Italian restaurant: Indulge at Edinburgh’s best Italian restaurant.
Orientation tour of Edinburgh: Join your tour leader as they take you on a driving and walking tour through Edinburgh
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Holiday Inn West
Novotel Edinburgh Park Hotel
DAY 3: Edinburgh: Free Day
![Edinburgh: Free Day]()
Take the full day to explore as you please. Edinburgh offers magnificent memorials, architecture, and art galleries. The cobbled streets of the Royal Mile provide an old-town feel to the busy city. Stroll the streets, and discover the many hidden gems of the city. Alternatively, sign up for the optional Conquer the Capital excursion with your Expat Explore tour leader. On this tour, you’ll visit Edinburgh Castle and the former residence of the royal family - the Royal Yacht Britannia. You’ll also hike up to Arthur’s Seat if it’s a sunny day, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views. For dinner, there’s the option to indulge in a traditional Scottish show combined with a meal (which includes Haggis for those who would like).
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Holiday Inn West
Novotel Edinburgh Park Hotel
Optional Excursions
- Spirit of Scotland Show i £75
- Conquer the Capital Edinburgh i £60
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.DAY 4: Loch Ness - Whisky distillery - Glencoe - Scottish Highlands
![Loch Ness - Whisky distillery - Glencoe - Scottish Highlands]()
Halfway through the tour, we’re headed north to reach the Scottish Highlands. Here, you have the option of embarking on a 1-hour cruise of the Loch Ness, where you can try to spot ‘Nessie’, the famed Loch Ness Monster. Marvel at the majestic Urquhart Castle ruins along the Loch’s banks. Then, back on dry land, you can see Britain’s highest mountain - Ben Nevis. Visit Fort Williams, one of Scotland’s oldest licensed whisky distilleries. Take a tour through the distillery and savour some whisky tasting as well. Before reaching the hotel, a stop at the striking Glen (deep valley) Glencoe. This is the place where the Massacre of Glencoe in 1692 took place.
Experiences
Visit Loch Ness: With free time to explore, or join an optional boat tour.
Whisky tasting: At one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries in Fort William.
Ben Nevis: As we head back south behold the grandeur of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, and Glen Coe, a spectacular glen with a fascinating history.
Scottish Highlands: Enjoy an overnight stay in the iconic Scottish Highlands.
Optional Excursions
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change. DAY 5: Lake District - Liverpool
![Lake District - Liverpool]()
Today, the coach is bound for Liverpool. This city is the home of the Beatle, as well as two internationally famed premier league football clubs. The last divine views of the Scottish Highlands can be seen from the window. Arriving in Liverpool late in the afternoon, the evening allows for free exploration time. The local English pubs offer the perfect setting for a traditional dinner, and there are numerous Beatles-related locations to explore as well. Some of these include the Cavern Club, where the band would often play, as well as Strawberry Lane and Penny Lane.
Experiences
Comfort stop at the world famous Gretna Green: Found on the Scottish side of the border between England and Scotland - this is where lovers used to get married without their parent’s permission.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Ibis Liverpool Centre Albert Dock Hotel
Optional Excursions
- The Beatles Story & Museum i £18
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.DAY 6: Stratford-Upon-Avon - Wales
![Stratford-Upon-Avon - Wales]()
It’s an early morning driving tour that starts off today. See Liverpool’s highlight and attractions as your Expat Explore tour leader shares insights and information. Once the city has been explored, the birthplace of William Shakespeare is up next as the coach travels towards Stratford-upon-Avon. Here, there’s time to explore on your own and see the many locations that hold significance in the life of Shakespeare. There’s also the option to join an excursion to the writer’s childhood home. Then it’s back on the road and moving on to Wales, which offers views of an authentic medieval castle. Next, move on to Cardiff, Wale’s capital city, where your hotel awaits after an insightful city driving tour with your Expat Explore tour leader.
Experiences
Liverpool driving tour: Take a driving tour and see some of the city's highlights including the Albert Dock and a variety of locations connected to The Beatles.
Visit Stratford-Upon-Avon: Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare. You will have free time to wander the town and visit some of the Shakespearean attractions, such as the historic 16th-Century house where he grew up.
Castle photo stop: Enroute to Cardiff, take a step back in time and enjoy a quick photo stop at a medieval castle.
Orientation driving tour of Cardiff: We continue on to the Welsh capital where we will drive through the city sights on an orientation tour before arriving at the hotel.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Park Inn by Radisson Cardiff City Centre
Cardiff North Hotel by Accor
Optional Excursions
- Shakespeare Birthplace i £18
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.DAY 7: Bath - Stonehenge - London
![Bath - Stonehenge - London]()
The tour now heads back to London, with captivating stops along the way. Visit Bath and enjoy a tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll get to take in some of the most exquisite architecture in Europe. Discover the Roman Baths along with their Roman history. Then, get ready for a breathtaking trip to Stonehenge. This is an opportunity of a lifetime, and we advise you have your cameras ready. Finally, the tour will arrive in Greenwich where you’ll check into the hotel and take some free time to explore the city.
Optional Excursions
- Stonehenge i £23
- Roman Baths i £25
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.DAY 8: London - Paris
![London - Paris]()
After meeting some new travel buddies, we get back on the coach and make our way to continental Europe. Crossing the English channel, arrive in Paris by late afternoon with just enough time to embark on a driving tour of the city. View the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, and other important landmarks throughout Paris. Once the drive is over, and cameras are full of photos, the tour group will all enjoy a Parisian meal together. Soak up the feel of the Latin Quarter as you dine in luxury. The world-famous Paris metro system will be your transport back to the hotel for a restful night.
Experiences
Driving tour of Paris: Enjoy a driving tour upon arrival - spot the Tuileries Gardens, The River Seine, l’Ile de la Cité, the Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Lovers Bridge, Sacre Coeur, Montmartre, Pigalle (the Red Light District) and the Moulin Rouge!
Paris welcome dinner: This is your chance to meet your fellow travellers and tour leader over a delicious Parisian meal. Take some time to chat to your tour leader about optional excursions to join on your free day tomorrow.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Hotel ibis Paris La Défense Centre
B&B Hôtel Paris Porte des Lilas
B&B Hôtel Paris Italie Porte de Choisy
Hôtel Kyriad Paris Nord Porte de Saint Ouen
DAY 9: Paris: Free Day
![Paris: Free Day]()
You have a free day to explore the city of love to your heart’s content. Join your tour leader for a jam-packed day of exploring on the Paris+ optional. Explore the city’s iconic sights such as the Tuileries Gardens, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre and much more! Enjoy an included lunch on a Seine River cruise. Then, take in the breathtaking view of the city below from the Montparnasse Observation Deck. Watch a cabaret show in the evening or explore the beautiful streets of the Montmartre area by night.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Hotel ibis Paris La Défense Centre
B&B Hôtel Paris Porte des Lilas
B&B Hôtel Paris Italie Porte de Choisy
Hôtel Kyriad Paris Nord Porte de Saint Ouen
Optional Excursions
- Paris + i €55
- Parisian Cabaret with drinks i €75
- An Evening in Montmartre i €45
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.DAY 10: Burgundy - Swiss Alps
![Burgundy - Swiss Alps]()
Bid Paris ‘au revoir’ as the tour now moves on to the smaller French town of Beaune. Enjoy this delightful lunch stop and take advantage of the time to try delectable French wine and visit the stunning Hospices de Beaune. After lunch, it’s time to head into Switzerland. The drive to the Swiss Alps offers gorgeous views all the way into the authentic Swiss mountain village that will be our home for the next couple of days. You’ll be staying in the popular Jungfrau region, a World Heritage Site and home to the largest glacier in Europe.
Experiences
Burgundy lunch stop: Enjoy a stop in Beaune in Burgundy, a UNESCO World Heritage site and famous wine-producing region. You will have some free time to explore this beautiful medieval town centre and the opportunity to try local food and wine.
Scenic Swiss Mountain drive: Marvel at the spectacular views as we drive through this amazing country alongside lakes, breath-taking mountain vistas and quaint Swiss towns.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Hotel Residence Grindelwald
The Bear Inn Wilderswil
Ski Lodge Hotel Engelberg
DAY 11: Swiss Alps: Free Day
![Swiss Alps: Free Day]()
Prepare yourself for a day of captivating exploration. The day is yours to traverse the Alps as you wish, however, there is an unmissable optional excursion on offer, allowing you to visit Jungfraujoch - the highest train station in Europe. Spend some time viewing the charming Alp villages, play in the year-round snow, and take in the breathtaking views from the top of the mountain. Once back on the ground, be sure to head into town for Swiss chocolate shopping and savour an authentic fondue.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Hotel Residence Grindelwald
The Bear Inn Wilderswil
Ski Lodge Hotel Engelberg
Optional Excursions
- Train to Jungfraujoch i €190
- White-Water River Rafting i CHF108
- Paragliding i €155
- Sky-diving i €345
- Swiss Fondue Dinner i €30
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.DAY 12: Swiss Alps - Rhine Valley
![Swiss Alps - Rhine Valley]()
Onto the next beautiful destination - Germany’s Rhine Valley. Sit back and enjoy the views as you drive through Switzerland to Germany. Enjoy a peaceful riverboat cruise on the Rhine River. Your home for the night is the Rhine Valley, home to Europe’s most concentrated stretch of medieval castles. The Valley is abundant in small medieval towns, towering cliffs, and surrounding vineyards. Visit some of the local wine merchants and take advantage of their wine tastings, which may include the rare eiswein. Travel on to your hotel in the Rhine Valley region.
Experiences
Cruise down the Rhine River: See the beautiful scenery along the river banks, including the largest concentration of gothic castles in Europe (Sterrenberg, Liebestein, Katz and Fortress Rheinfels). Learn the story of the castles, many of which are now in ruins since the river barons left long ago.
Rhine Valley wine tasting: Visit a local wine merchant in one of Germany's most famous wine-growing regions, and sample several types of delicious German wine. Popular varieties include Riesling, Spätburgunder and Pinot Noir. The region is also well-known for producing eiswein (ice wine); a very sweet dessert wine made from grapes harvested in the freezing winter months.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Wyndham Garden Koblenz Hotel
Rheinlust Hotel
Seminaris Bad Honnef
DAY 13: Rhine Valley - Amsterdam
![Rhine Valley - Amsterdam]()
Today sees the group arrive in Amsterdam. After lunch, capture iconic photos with windmills in the background, watch an authentic cheese-making demonstration and discover how traditional clogs are made. Afterwards, head down to experience a thrilling cruise down the Amsterdam canals. Your tour leader will point out all landmarks and attractions, as well as enlighten you with facts as insights as you cruise along. The final evening of your tour is open and free. Discover Amsterdam nightlife in the Dam Square and enjoy the evening to its fullest.
Experiences
Visit the Riekermolen Windmill: Travel through the Dutch countryside and enjoy a photo stop at an iconic Dutch windmill.
Cheese and clogs demonstration: Enjoy a visit to a local farm and see how these famous shoes are traditionally crafted by hand. You will also see how Dutch cheese is made and get to taste some fantastic cheeses! This is a great place to shop for some unique souvenirs!
Amsterdam Canal Cruise: Sail along Amsterdam's stunning canals at twilight and enjoy a delicious pizza as you cruise. A perfect introduction to Amsterdam you will cruise along Amsterdam's atmospheric canals.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Hampton by Hilton Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam - Schiphol
Best Western Plus Plaza Almere
DAY 14: Bruges - London
![Bruges - London]()
Wave goodbye to the Netherlands, because our next stop is in Bruges, Belgium. This city is famous for its chocolate, waffles, Moules et Frites and beer - making the ultimate place for a lunch break. Take a look around the town’s cobbled streets lined with old-fashioned churches and grand towers. Fill up on great food and find many perfect last-minute souvenirs before hopping back onto the coach for the very last leg of the tour. It’s back into London for a friendly farewell.
Experiences
Visit Bruges, a medieval Belgian city: A stop in this beautiful medieval city en route to London. Enjoy free time during which you could try the signature national dish of frites and moules, have a Belgian beer or buy some amazing Belgian chocolate!