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Best of Europe tour
Combine both single tour legs to join the full-length, 22-day combo tour and experience the best of Europe
Best of Western Europe tour
Travel on the 1st leg of the full-length tour to experience 10 days in Western Europe
Best of Eastern Europe tour
Travel on the 2nd leg of the full-length tour to experience 11 days in Eastern Europe
Experience one of our best European tours! See the highlights of western, central and eastern Europe over 22 incredible days. This European trip itinerary is packed with incredible destinations, sights and activities. You’ll experience memorable moments and iconic cities! See Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, Venice, Berlin, Florence and Luxembourg. Travel east to Budapest, Vienna, Prague and Zagreb. Round off your trip with time in Belgium. Visit castles, say “cheers” in traditional beer halls, explore with local guides and slow down to discover cities at your own pace on free days. One of our best European vacations awaits!
Welcome to London! Meet the tour leader this morning and head out for your first experience of London on a city tour! London is a bustling city full of historic relics, incredible art, royal landmarks and modern architecture. Enjoy an included lunch at a traditional English pub - a must while in London! Afterwards, it’s time to delve into history on a locally-guided tour of Westminster. Westminster is home to iconic London landmarks including Big Ben, the Palaces of Westminster and Westminster Abbey. Wave to the Royal Family as you enjoy views of Buckingham Palace! Look forward to a free evening to spend as you wish.
Meals: Lunch
Departing London, cross the English Channel and travel to 'The City of Lights and Love' - Paris! Your experienced tour leader will introduce you to all the key Parisian sites on a relaxing driving tour of the city. Keep an eye out for iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. This evening, enjoy dinner with the group at a restaurant in the city. Finally, travel back to the hotel later tonight. Be sure to get some good rest as a full day of unforgettable Parisian adventures await tomorrow!
Meals: BreakfastDinner
Enjoy a full free day to explore the French capital! The Seine River is the backbone of Paris and flows through the heart of the city. Enjoy a cruise along the Seine when you join the Paris+ optional! This excursion includes all things French! Enjoy a macaron tasting, a visit to the Arc de Triomphe, a tour of a famous perfume museum, a sightseeing lunchtime cruise, a visit to the Montparnasse Tower and more! Tonight, choose to spend an evening in the beautiful Montmartre neighbourhood with a local guide and complete the day with an optional cabaret show!
Meals: Breakfast
This morning depart Paris and make a stop in the Champagne region. Here, enjoy a tasting of one of France’s most famous and highly prized exports - champagne! Then, the journey continues on to Luxembourg, where there will be free time to explore the capital of one of Europe’s smallest countries. The final destination of the day is Heidelberg, Germany’s oldest university town which is renowned for its Altstadt (old town), ruined Renaissance hilltop castle and romantic riverside cityscape. Enjoy an orientation tour of the city centre and some free time to explore the old town before an included group dinner tonight.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
This morning head into Germany’s Schwarzwald (Black Forest), home of delicious Black Forest gâteau, cuckoo clocks and Hansel and Gretel! Visit an authentic German cuckoo clock-making shop in the heart of the forest before arriving on the shores of Lake Titisee to explore the spa town of Titisee and enjoy free time for lunch. Next, cross into Switzerland and stop off at the stunning Rhine Falls, the largest plain waterfall in Europe. Make the most of free time to explore, with the option to take a boat ride to the falls. Later, arrive in Lucerne and set off on an orientation tour which offers a great introduction to the city before travelling on to tonight’s accommodation.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
Today is a free day to enjoy the Lucerne region. Renowned as one of Switzerland's most beautiful cities, Lucerne is a place you'll definitely want to have your camera ready to photograph! All the ingredients for the quintessentially picturesque Swiss experience are here - a cobalt lake and well-preserved old town complete with waterfront promenades, covered bridges and perfect plazas are surrounded by the natural skyscrapers of the Swiss Alps. It's no wonder that Goethe, Queen Victoria and Wagner savoured the stunning views that Lucerne has to offer! There's charm and grace around every corner, but it's not all about history - there's certainly enough of a pulse here to keep things current, with carnivals, concerts and exhibitions aplenty!
Meals: Breakfast
Get ready for four countries in one day! Depart Switzerland for today’s first stop: the Alpine principality of Liechtenstein, the sixth smallest nation in the world. Stopping in the capital Vaduz, take time to stroll around and enjoy the scenery. Then it’s time to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, a 19th century German hilltop castle built by Ludwig II of Bavaria, and the inspiration for Disney’s famous Sleeping Beauty castle! Entrance to the castle is included in the tour package price. Today’s final destination of the day is Innsbruck, Austria. Home to Austria's third-largest student population, there's no shortage of vibrant bars and beer gardens to enjoy. Enjoy an introduction to the city on an orientation tour of Innsbruck.
Meals: Breakfast
It’s time to head south into Italy! As one of the most visited destinations in the world, Italy serves up centuries of incredible history, rich culture and, of course, fantastic food! En route to Siena, the tour will stop in Modena. While here, enjoy a tasting of balsamic vinegar which the region is famous for. Arriving in Siena this afternoon, your tour leader will guide a short orientation tour of the historic city centre, which is followed by free time here this evening.
Meals: Breakfast
Today, explore two unmissable highlights of Tuscany: Florence and Pisa! Upon arrival in Florence, step into the world of Italian leather crafting and visit a local leather factory and shop. Learn more about famous handmade Florentine leather products before taking an orientation tour of Florence to see iconic sights including the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Ponte Vecchio. Next, enjoy free time in the city and join the Taste of Tuscany optional excursion or explore at your own pace. Hop aboard the coach for today’s last stop - the Leaning Tower of Pisa! Now over 800 years old, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a classic sight in Italy and well worth a photo! Return to Siena tonight.
Meals: Breakfast
More Italian adventures await today! It’s time to travel to Rome, Italy’s historic capital city. This European metropolis buzzes with activity, tradition, passion, and an energy of its own. Join a local Roman tour guide for a walking tour of the city. Look forward to seeing several historic sights, including the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain Pantheon and Piazza Navona. Later, enjoy dinner with the group.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
Rome boasts ancient ruins, historical landmarks, religious buildings and a buzz like no other, and today is a full free day to explore the city! Why not pay a visit to the Colosseum or the Roman Forum and drift backwards in time to when gladiators, chariots and lions dominated the arena? One of the best areas for sampling authentic Roman food is in Trastevere where restaurants, favoured by the locals, serve original and classic dishes you may not find elsewhere. Or, use this free day to travel to the Vatican City - the smallest country in the world! Explore St Peter’s Basilica, see the incredible displays in the museums and admire Michelangelo’s artwork in the Sistine Chapel.
Meals: Breakfast
Leaving the churches and basilicas behind, today the journey continues to Venice, the famous “floating city”! Get ready to tick off Venice’s bucket list-worthy sights including the Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s Square. The afternoon is free to spend as you wish. Join the Evening in Venice optional excursion and choose to see Venice the traditional way - from the canals on a water taxi and gondola ride. This offers a completely different perspective and appreciation for the amazing structure of this unique destination! This excursion also includes dinner at a local restaurant making it the perfect way to experience Venice at night.
Meals: Breakfast
Travel towards Zagreb in Croatia today. Along the way enjoy a visit to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s picture-perfect capital city. Often thought of as a hidden gem of Europe, Slovenia’s castles, stunning architecture and natural beauty mean it packs a punch more powerful than its small size would suggest! Later, arrive in Zagreb. Get to know Croatia’s capital city on an orientation tour. This fascinating city is an interesting mix of Habsburg and Communist architecture. Learn more of Croatia’s history and cultural facts, and get a glimpse of everyday life in this charming city. Afterwards, check into tonight’s hotel with time to freshen up before an included dinner this evening.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
Today, the tour will cross into Hungary and head for the capital, Budapest. Cited as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, it straddles the historic Danube River and boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites - and the city’s natural geothermal springs are a highlight! Enjoy a driving tour of the city with a local guide to see the top attractions and learn more about Hungary’s history. Then, enjoy free time this evening to explore. Why not join the Danube Dinner Cruise optional? It’s a fantastic way to see Budapest at night - viewing the twinkling city lights and historic architecture from the water is sure to be unforgettable!
Meals: Breakfast
Depart Budapest and travel to the Slovakian capital, Bratislava! Surrounded by mountains, vineyards, ski runs and wilderness, Bratislava is a charming city. Enjoy an orientation tour and see if you can spot Bratislava’s castle in the distance. Next up is Vienna. Arrive and join a local guide for a walking and driving tour of the Austrian capital. As a centre for art and culture in Europe for centuries, Vienna was host to some of the world’s leading musical minds at one time or another – including luminaries like Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven. Along with its classical heritage, imperial history, magnificent concert halls, palaces and museums, Vienna is also a modern city, with a vibrant café, restaurant and nightlife culture.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
Enjoy a free day to explore Vienna! Awash with imperial splendour, Vienna was once the centre of the powerful Habsburg monarchy, which dominated central Europe from the 16th-18th centuries. History fans should check out the incredible palaces of the era - Schönbrunn Palace and the Belvedere. Classical music lovers can enjoy a concert by one of the greatest composers of the Viennese classical period, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, with today’s optional excursion.
Meals: Breakfast
Today, the tour travels to the Czech Republic! Prague is a beautiful city, boasting elaborate baroque, gothic, art nouveau and cubist architecture, and rewarding those who explore it with quirky bars, cobbled lanes and secluded courtyards. Known for its brilliant beer and abundance of history, any exploration of Prague will be a memorable one. A local guide will lead a walking tour and introduce the city’s must-see sights. Then, enjoy a free afternoon to explore more at your own pace. Tonight, choose to join the optional traditional Czech folk show for a night filled with music and dancing, including a traditional four-course meal.
Meals: Breakfast
Today’s first destination is the German city of Dresden. Virtually rebuilt from the ground up after bombing attacks in WW2 destroyed the city centre, Dresden is immaculate and stylish. Choose to try some of the local German food, such as Bratwurst, and have a wander around the beautifully paved streets. Afterwards, the journey continues to Berlin, the capital of Germany. With a mix of history and modernity and after stepping forward from a turbulent past, Berlin is one of Europe’s most captivating destinations! Arrive and set off on a driving tour of the city, stopping off to see poignant locations such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag and Checkpoint Charlie. Tonight, enjoy an included group dinner.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
Enjoy a free day to further explore the history of the German capital. The Berlin Wall stands as a sombre reminder of the controls imposed on Berlin during and after WW2, however, the bright street art that adorns it today seems to give it a peaceful purpose. Berlin also offers numerous free museums and galleries to visit, which all contribute to the understanding of this city's modern history. Enjoy an in-depth tour of the city on the Berlin+ optional excursion which includes the East Side Gallery, Hackescher Markt, the Berlin TV Tower and more. Or, join the Berlin Food Tour and taste local and international cuisine in the Kreuzberg market.
Meals: Breakfast
This morning, say auf wiedersehen to Germany as the tour continues onwards to The Netherlands, where the landscapes change to windmills and waterways as the coach approaches the vibrant city of Amsterdam. This evening, enjoy an unforgettable introduction to the city with a sightseeing twilight canal cruise! After seeing the bridges and city from the waterside, enjoy a taste of local cuisine at an included dinner. Afterwards, enjoy free time tonight to discover the cafés, bars and coffee shops that Amsterdam is famous for!
Meals: BreakfastDinner
Experience the delights of Amsterdam today! There are numerous museums and art galleries to choose from - why not visit Anne Frank House or the Van Gogh Museum, take a bicycle tour or simply wander the streets and canals? For a fantastic Dutch experience, join the Dutch countryside optional excursion. The excursion includes a visit to a local farm to see how Dutch cheese and clogs are crafted before heading to the historic villages of Volendam and Zaanse Schans for sightings of the iconic Dutch windmills. Finally, opt in for tonight’s Dutch Pancake Soiree as a festive way to bid farewell to your fellow travellers.
Meals: Breakfast
After the Amsterdam adventure, there is one more stop before travelling back to the UK. The Belgian city of Bruges is small but picturesque, with breathtaking architecture and a wonderful atmosphere. Described as the ‘Venice of the North’, enjoy free time in the city to stretch your legs and indulge in a spot of sightseeing. Afterwards, hop back aboard the coach for the final leg of the journey back to London, crossing the English Channel on the way. This is the perfect time to exchange contact details with new friends and travel buddies as you prepare to disembark. We look forward to having you on tour with us again soon!
Meals: Breakfast
Welcome to London! Meet the tour leader this morning and head out for your first experience of London on a city tour! London is a bustling city full of historic relics, incredible art, royal landmarks and modern architecture. Enjoy an included lunch at a traditional English pub - a must while in London! Afterwards, it’s time to delve into history on a locally-guided tour of Westminster. Westminster is home to iconic London landmarks including Big Ben, the Palaces of Westminster and Westminster Abbey. Wave to the Royal Family as you enjoy views of Buckingham Palace! Look forward to a free evening to spend as you wish.
London Guided Tour: See London’s top sights and learn more about its history on a guided city tour! London is home to rich history, royal relics and buzzing modern areas! See some of the city’s most popular boroughs and keep an eye out for iconic landmarks. Plus, enjoy an included tour of Westminster - this borough is home to London icons such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the Palaces of Westminster. You’ll also get to tick “See Buckingham Palace” off your bucket list!
Lunch in a traditional British pub: This afternoon, enjoy an included welcome lunch at a historic local pub, where you can try a typical British roast! Vegetarian options are available.
Lunch
Hotel
Departing London, cross the English Channel and travel to 'The City of Lights and Love' - Paris! Your experienced tour leader will introduce you to all the key Parisian sites on a relaxing driving tour of the city. Keep an eye out for iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. This evening, enjoy dinner with the group at a restaurant in the city. Finally, travel back to the hotel later tonight. Be sure to get some good rest as a full day of unforgettable Parisian adventures await tomorrow!
Enjoy a driving tour of Paris: Spot the Tuileries Gardens, The River Seine, l'Île 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!
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
Enjoy a full free day to explore the French capital! The Seine River is the backbone of Paris and flows through the heart of the city. Enjoy a cruise along the Seine when you join the Paris+ optional! This excursion includes all things French! Enjoy a macaron tasting, a visit to the Arc de Triomphe, a tour of a famous perfume museum, a sightseeing lunchtime cruise, a visit to the Montparnasse Tower and more! Tonight, choose to spend an evening in the beautiful Montmartre neighbourhood with a local guide and complete the day with an optional cabaret show!
Breakfast
Hotel
Spend the day ticking off Parisian highlights! Today includes top attractions, macarons, perfume, a River Seine Cruise and much more.
Explore the vibrant Montmartre neighbourhood by night! See the Moulin Rouge and the Sacré-Cœur basilica and indulge in a three-course French dinner.
Be amazed by colours, costumes and cancan at one of Paris’ top cabaret venues!
This morning depart Paris and make a stop in the Champagne region. Here, enjoy a tasting of one of France’s most famous and highly prized exports - champagne! Then, the journey continues on to Luxembourg, where there will be free time to explore the capital of one of Europe’s smallest countries. The final destination of the day is Heidelberg, Germany’s oldest university town which is renowned for its Altstadt (old town), ruined Renaissance hilltop castle and romantic riverside cityscape. Enjoy an orientation tour of the city centre and some free time to explore the old town before an included group dinner tonight.
Champagne Tasting in Reims: Savour the taste of one of France’s most important exports - champagne. Admire the bubbles and the colour of this highly-prized wine.
Orientation tour of Heidelberg: Your tour leader will take you on an orientation tour of Heidelberg’s Altstadt (old town), a medieval town with cobblestoned roads and infectious charm. See the ruined Renaissance hilltop castle and romantic riverside cityscape.
Overnight in Heidelberg: A university town with a beautiful Baroque old town and vibrant nightlife, Heidelberg is the capital of the Romantic road, a route that travels through the Romantic towns of Germany.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
This morning head into Germany’s Schwarzwald (Black Forest), home of delicious Black Forest gâteau, cuckoo clocks and Hansel and Gretel! Visit an authentic German cuckoo clock-making shop in the heart of the forest before arriving on the shores of Lake Titisee to explore the spa town of Titisee and enjoy free time for lunch. Next, cross into Switzerland and stop off at the stunning Rhine Falls, the largest plain waterfall in Europe. Make the most of free time to explore, with the option to take a boat ride to the falls. Later, arrive in Lucerne and set off on an orientation tour which offers a great introduction to the city before travelling on to tonight’s accommodation.
Explore Germany’s Schwarzwald: Stop off at a family-owned cuckoo clock centre in the heart of the Black Forest, the perfect opportunity to pick up a souvenir and shop for Swiss and German brands like Swarovski, Victorinox and Goebel, and have a cup of coffee with a slice of Black Forest gâteau cake.
Stopover in Titisee: Enjoy some free time to explore the historic centre of the Titisee spa town on the shore of Lake Titisee, and grab some lunch from one of the many cafés and restaurants.
Experience the Rhine Falls: Enjoy some free time to experience the dramatic Rhine Falls in northern Switzerland and take in views of Wörth Castle. An optional boat ride is offered which will take you into the falls and allow you to climb onto Rheinfall Felsen, the large rock at its heart.
Orientation walk of Lucerne city centre: Your tour leader will walk you through the centre of Lucerne and point out some of the highlights you can explore further on your free day tomorrow, such as the Lion Monument, Church of St Leodegar and the famous Chapel Bridge.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
Take a boat ride to see the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, up close! Climb to the viewing platform (+-100 steps) for 360-degree views!
Today is a free day to enjoy the Lucerne region. Renowned as one of Switzerland's most beautiful cities, Lucerne is a place you'll definitely want to have your camera ready to photograph! All the ingredients for the quintessentially picturesque Swiss experience are here - a cobalt lake and well-preserved old town complete with waterfront promenades, covered bridges and perfect plazas are surrounded by the natural skyscrapers of the Swiss Alps. It's no wonder that Goethe, Queen Victoria and Wagner savoured the stunning views that Lucerne has to offer! There's charm and grace around every corner, but it's not all about history - there's certainly enough of a pulse here to keep things current, with carnivals, concerts and exhibitions aplenty!
Breakfast
Hotel
Travel to Pilatus Kulm and admire lush meadows, sparkling mountain streams and fascinating rock faces. This is the world’s steepest cogwheel railway!
Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne and admire the mountain scenery and the picturesque town of Lucerne from the water on this hour-long boat trip.
Get ready for four countries in one day! Depart Switzerland for today’s first stop: the Alpine principality of Liechtenstein, the sixth smallest nation in the world. Stopping in the capital Vaduz, take time to stroll around and enjoy the scenery. Then it’s time to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, a 19th century German hilltop castle built by Ludwig II of Bavaria, and the inspiration for Disney’s famous Sleeping Beauty castle! Entrance to the castle is included in the tour package price. Today’s final destination of the day is Innsbruck, Austria. Home to Austria's third-largest student population, there's no shortage of vibrant bars and beer gardens to enjoy. Enjoy an introduction to the city on an orientation tour of Innsbruck.
Comfort Stop in Vaduz, Liechtenstein: This tiny country may only be the size of Manhattan, but it's skyscrapers of a different kind that dominate the skyline!
Explore the famous Neuschwanstein Castle: Enter the incredible Neuschwanstein Castle interior and enjoy a tour of this magical structure! This castle looks like it's straight out of a fairy tale - which incidentally isn't far from the truth: Neuschwanstein Castle served as the inspiration for Disney’s famous Sleeping Beauty castle.
Orientation tour of Innsbruck: This historic Austrian city is famous not only as the birthplace of Albert Einstein, but also for having the tallest church steeple in the world! Your tour leader will introduce you to a few of the highlights of this city, and then give you free time to explore further.
Breakfast
Hotel
Experience traditional Tyrolean music and dancing along with an authentic, three-course Austrian dinner!
It’s time to head south into Italy! As one of the most visited destinations in the world, Italy serves up centuries of incredible history, rich culture and, of course, fantastic food! En route to Siena, the tour will stop in Modena. While here, enjoy a tasting of balsamic vinegar which the region is famous for. Arriving in Siena this afternoon, your tour leader will guide a short orientation tour of the historic city centre, which is followed by free time here this evening.
Taste traditional balsamic vinegar in Modena: Enjoy a taste of traditional balsamic vinegar in Modena, which has been produced in Modena and Reggio Emilia since the 11th century.
Orientation tour of Siena: Enjoy an orientation tour of Siena with your tour leader. This historic Italian city is home to beautiful architecture, wonderful art and delicious food and wine. Siena is famous for hosting the Palio horse race twice a year!
Breakfast
Hotel
Today, explore two unmissable highlights of Tuscany: Florence and Pisa! Upon arrival in Florence, step into the world of Italian leather crafting and visit a local leather factory and shop. Learn more about famous handmade Florentine leather products before taking an orientation tour of Florence to see iconic sights including the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Ponte Vecchio. Next, enjoy free time in the city and join the Taste of Tuscany optional excursion or explore at your own pace. Hop aboard the coach for today’s last stop - the Leaning Tower of Pisa! Now over 800 years old, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a classic sight in Italy and well worth a photo! Return to Siena tonight.
Leather-making demonstration: Visit a local leather factory and shop to learn more about the historic art of leather-making!
Orientation tour of Florence: Your Expat Explore tour leader will take you on an orientation tour to introduce you to the main sights, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza Della Signoria and the replica statue of David.
Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa: Your chance to see the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, or even take some iconic pictures of you ‘holding up’ the tower.
Breakfast
Hotel
Get a true taste of Tuscany with this culinary experience in Florence! Sit down for a family-style meal and indulge in classic Tuscan dishes.
More Italian adventures await today! It’s time to travel to Rome, Italy’s historic capital city. This European metropolis buzzes with activity, tradition, passion, and an energy of its own. Join a local Roman tour guide for a walking tour of the city. Look forward to seeing several historic sights, including the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain Pantheon and Piazza Navona. Later, enjoy dinner with the group.
Walking tour of Rome: This city has so much to see and do that we can’t list everything here! Enjoy a walking tour of Rome with a professional local guide, a great introduction for further exploration of the city during the free day tomorrow. Visit the Roman Forum, Arch of Septimus Severus, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and the Spanish Steps.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
Rome boasts ancient ruins, historical landmarks, religious buildings and a buzz like no other, and today is a full free day to explore the city! Why not pay a visit to the Colosseum or the Roman Forum and drift backwards in time to when gladiators, chariots and lions dominated the arena? One of the best areas for sampling authentic Roman food is in Trastevere where restaurants, favoured by the locals, serve original and classic dishes you may not find elsewhere. Or, use this free day to travel to the Vatican City - the smallest country in the world! Explore St Peter’s Basilica, see the incredible displays in the museums and admire Michelangelo’s artwork in the Sistine Chapel.
Breakfast
Hotel
Leaving the churches and basilicas behind, today the journey continues to Venice, the famous “floating city”! Get ready to tick off Venice’s bucket list-worthy sights including the Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s Square. The afternoon is free to spend as you wish. Join the Evening in Venice optional excursion and choose to see Venice the traditional way - from the canals on a water taxi and gondola ride. This offers a completely different perspective and appreciation for the amazing structure of this unique destination! This excursion also includes dinner at a local restaurant making it the perfect way to experience Venice at night.
Explore Venice: Discover the magic of Venice, Italy’s unique floating city. Venice is full of iconic sights including St Mark’s Square, St Mark’s Basilica, St Mark’s Museum, Campanile, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Market and Scuola Grande di San Rocco. For the ultimate Venice experience, join today’s optional excursions!
Breakfast
Hotel
Take a water taxi cruise and gondola ride of Venice’s iconic waterways. Soak up the romantic sights from the canals and enjoy an included dinner.
Travel towards Zagreb in Croatia today. Along the way enjoy a visit to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s picture-perfect capital city. Often thought of as a hidden gem of Europe, Slovenia’s castles, stunning architecture and natural beauty mean it packs a punch more powerful than its small size would suggest! Later, arrive in Zagreb. Get to know Croatia’s capital city on an orientation tour. This fascinating city is an interesting mix of Habsburg and Communist architecture. Learn more of Croatia’s history and cultural facts, and get a glimpse of everyday life in this charming city. Afterwards, check into tonight’s hotel with time to freshen up before an included dinner this evening.
Orientation tour of Ljubljana: Enjoy a visit to Slovenia’s capital city. Ljubljana is a compact destination filled with historic streets, impressive architecture, picturesque riverside neighbourhoods and a hilltop castle looking over it all. Embark on an orientation tour with your tour leader.
Orientation walk in Zagreb: Your tour leader will take you on an orientation walk of Croatia’s capital city. See the landmarks like the Museum of Contemporary Art, Maksimir Park, and the Mirogoj.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
Today, the tour will cross into Hungary and head for the capital, Budapest. Cited as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, it straddles the historic Danube River and boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites - and the city’s natural geothermal springs are a highlight! Enjoy a driving tour of the city with a local guide to see the top attractions and learn more about Hungary’s history. Then, enjoy free time this evening to explore. Why not join the Danube Dinner Cruise optional? It’s a fantastic way to see Budapest at night - viewing the twinkling city lights and historic architecture from the water is sure to be unforgettable!
Driving tour of Budapest: Meet up with a local guide who will accompany us on a driving tour of the city and point out all the best-loved sights. Learn more about Hungarian culture and language and the city's fascinating history. Drink in incredible views from atop Gellert Hill and the Citadel, make a stop at Heroes Square and get an eyeful of other must-see attractions like Budapest Parliament, St Stephen's Basilica, the State Opera, the castle district, and more.
Breakfast
Hotel
Indulge in a traditional Hungarian feast as you admire Budapest’s top sights from the water with a nighttime cruise along the Danube River.
Depart Budapest and travel to the Slovakian capital, Bratislava! Surrounded by mountains, vineyards, ski runs and wilderness, Bratislava is a charming city. Enjoy an orientation tour and see if you can spot Bratislava’s castle in the distance. Next up is Vienna. Arrive and join a local guide for a walking and driving tour of the Austrian capital. As a centre for art and culture in Europe for centuries, Vienna was host to some of the world’s leading musical minds at one time or another – including luminaries like Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven. Along with its classical heritage, imperial history, magnificent concert halls, palaces and museums, Vienna is also a modern city, with a vibrant café, restaurant and nightlife culture.
Bratislava orientation tour: Join your tour leader on an orientation tour to see some of the landmarks and historic sights of the city, including a photo stop at Bratislava Castle, which overlooks the city.
Walking and driving tour of Vienna: Vienna is known as the 'City of Music’ due to its classical heritage and the prodigies that worked there including Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and Brahms to name a few. The tour starts at the Golden Mile on the RingStrasse (Parliament, City Hall, Burgtheater). Then, discover the courtyards and passages around the Hofburg (Imperial Castle) and St. Stephen’s Cathedral which is Vienna’s geographic and historic centre.
Dinner in a Viennese wine cellar: Enjoy dinner in a special location tonight! Tuck into a delicious meal in a historic Viennese wine cellar.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
Enjoy a free day to explore Vienna! Awash with imperial splendour, Vienna was once the centre of the powerful Habsburg monarchy, which dominated central Europe from the 16th-18th centuries. History fans should check out the incredible palaces of the era - Schönbrunn Palace and the Belvedere. Classical music lovers can enjoy a concert by one of the greatest composers of the Viennese classical period, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, with today’s optional excursion.
Breakfast
Hotel
Soak up Vienna’s imperial history with visits to Schönbrunn Palace, the artsy Mariahilf and Neubau districts, and a historic Viennese café.
Enjoy a classical concert held in a beautiful Viennese concert hall. The orchestra will play classics from the Strauss dynasty and Mozart.
Today, the tour travels to the Czech Republic! Prague is a beautiful city, boasting elaborate baroque, gothic, art nouveau and cubist architecture, and rewarding those who explore it with quirky bars, cobbled lanes and secluded courtyards. Known for its brilliant beer and abundance of history, any exploration of Prague will be a memorable one. A local guide will lead a walking tour and introduce the city’s must-see sights. Then, enjoy a free afternoon to explore more at your own pace. Tonight, choose to join the optional traditional Czech folk show for a night filled with music and dancing, including a traditional four-course meal.
Prague walking tour: A local guide will introduce you to the must-see sights of Prague including the Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, St. Vitus Cathedral and the Charles Bridge.
Breakfast
Hotel
Enjoy a delicious three-course Czech dinner with unlimited drinks while delighting in a traditional folk show complete with Czech music and dancing!
Today’s first destination is the German city of Dresden. Virtually rebuilt from the ground up after bombing attacks in WW2 destroyed the city centre, Dresden is immaculate and stylish. Choose to try some of the local German food, such as Bratwurst, and have a wander around the beautifully paved streets. Afterwards, the journey continues to Berlin, the capital of Germany. With a mix of history and modernity and after stepping forward from a turbulent past, Berlin is one of Europe’s most captivating destinations! Arrive and set off on a driving tour of the city, stopping off to see poignant locations such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag and Checkpoint Charlie. Tonight, enjoy an included group dinner.
Explore the streets of Dresden: Enjoy a lunch stop in Dresden. During WW2 the city was almost completely destroyed by bombing attacks. Luckily, most of its treasures were removed beforehand and today, Dresden has been carefully rebuilt. It is full of beautiful and striking architecture and is home to amazing museums, arts and culture. Take a walk through the city centre and choose a local spot to enjoy lunch.
Guided driving tour of Berlin: Your local guide will explain the amazing history of this vibrant city and show you all the must-see sights, including Alexanderplatz, Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, the Berlin Wall and Reichstag. Take a note of those you want to explore further on your free day tomorrow!
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Enjoy a free day to further explore the history of the German capital. The Berlin Wall stands as a sombre reminder of the controls imposed on Berlin during and after WW2, however, the bright street art that adorns it today seems to give it a peaceful purpose. Berlin also offers numerous free museums and galleries to visit, which all contribute to the understanding of this city's modern history. Enjoy an in-depth tour of the city on the Berlin+ optional excursion which includes the East Side Gallery, Hackescher Markt, the Berlin TV Tower and more. Or, join the Berlin Food Tour and taste local and international cuisine in the Kreuzberg market.
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Discover Berlin’s fascinating history and vibrant modern culture. Visit the East Side Gallery, the Hackescher Markt, the Berlin TV Tower and more.
Go on a walking food tour of Berlin’s vibrant Kreuzberg area and discover the delicious, varied cuisine and artistic sights of this neighbourhood.
This morning, say auf wiedersehen to Germany as the tour continues onwards to The Netherlands, where the landscapes change to windmills and waterways as the coach approaches the vibrant city of Amsterdam. This evening, enjoy an unforgettable introduction to the city with a sightseeing twilight canal cruise! After seeing the bridges and city from the waterside, enjoy a taste of local cuisine at an included dinner. Afterwards, enjoy free time tonight to discover the cafés, bars and coffee shops that Amsterdam is famous for!
Amsterdam Canal Cruise: Sail along Amsterdam's stunning canals at twilight - a perfect introduction to Amsterdam as you cruise past famous landmarks from the atmospheric canals.
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Experience the delights of Amsterdam today! There are numerous museums and art galleries to choose from - why not visit Anne Frank House or the Van Gogh Museum, take a bicycle tour or simply wander the streets and canals? For a fantastic Dutch experience, join the Dutch countryside optional excursion. The excursion includes a visit to a local farm to see how Dutch cheese and clogs are crafted before heading to the historic villages of Volendam and Zaanse Schans for sightings of the iconic Dutch windmills. Finally, opt in for tonight’s Dutch Pancake Soiree as a festive way to bid farewell to your fellow travellers.
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Experience the Dutch countryside! Enjoy cheese and clog-making demonstrations, visit Volendam and see the windmills of Zaanse Schans.
Delight in one of the most delicious Dutch delicacies, Dutch pancakes, with a three-course dinner at a beautiful local restaurant in Amsterdam!
After the Amsterdam adventure, there is one more stop before travelling back to the UK. The Belgian city of Bruges is small but picturesque, with breathtaking architecture and a wonderful atmosphere. Described as the ‘Venice of the North’, enjoy free time in the city to stretch your legs and indulge in a spot of sightseeing. Afterwards, hop back aboard the coach for the final leg of the journey back to London, crossing the English Channel on the way. This is the perfect time to exchange contact details with new friends and travel buddies as you prepare to disembark. We look forward to having you on tour with us again soon!
Visit Bruges: Make a stop in this beautiful medieval town with some free time so you could try the signature national dish of moules et frites, see or even climb the Belfry Tower, have a Belgian beer or buy some amazing Belgian chocolate.
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We partner with a range of hand-picked hotels in each destination. The hotels listed below are those we stay at most frequently. However, you may stay at different hotels of a similar standard.
A confirmed list of hotels is emailed to all travellers prior to their tour departure. To extend your stay in London, click here to book pre and post-tour accommodation through our partner Booking.com.
Unless marked as “Pre-Book”, all optional excursions can be booked on tour and paid for in cash (in the stated currency) to your tour leader. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Spend the day ticking off Parisian highlights! Today includes top attractions, macarons, perfume, a River Seine Cruise and much more.
Join your tour leader on an unforgettable day out in Paris! Look forward to enjoying classic French experiences. These include tasting macarons at the world-famous Ladurée, strolling through the beautiful Place Vendôme and a guided tour of the Fragonard Musée du Parfum. You’ll also visit Montparnasse Tower for panoramic views of Paris, take in the impressive views of the Eiffel Tower from Champ de Mars, enjoy a sightseeing River Seine cruise with food and drinks on board, and visit the vibrant Latin Quarter where the tour ends. Here, you’ll have free time to explore and glimpse the reconstruction of the Notre Dame Cathedral!
Please Note: Minimum numbers required.
Explore the vibrant Montmartre neighbourhood by night! See the Moulin Rouge and the Sacré-Cœur basilica and indulge in a three-course French dinner.
Spend an evening in the beautiful Montmartre neighbourhood, affectionately referred to as the ‘last village in Paris’. See the Moulin Rouge, stroll the cobbled streets and visit the charming village shops and romantic terraces. Admire views of the spectacular Sacré-Cœur Basilica before enjoying a three-course dinner filled with authentic French options (vegetarian options are available) finished off with a delicious local dessert!
Be amazed by colours, costumes and cancan at one of Paris’ top cabaret venues!
Experience a fantastic show and the famous French Cancan at one of the top Paris cabaret venues. The shows are lively, colourful and tastefully produced. With striking decor, beautiful costumes and a variety of classic and modern choreography this is a show you will not want to miss! The price includes the show and a glass of French champagne (soft drink option also available).
Take a boat ride to see the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, up close! Climb to the viewing platform (+-100 steps) for 360-degree views!
See Europe’s largest waterfall up close! At 23m high and 150m wide, Rhine Falls is nothing short of impressive! Enjoy a boat ride to the heart of the Rhine Falls, the magnificent Mittefelsen. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to climb +-100 steps to the 30m high viewing platform. This viewpoint offers 360-degree views of the mighty Rhine Falls. Afterwards, return to the port.
Travel to Pilatus Kulm and admire lush meadows, sparkling mountain streams and fascinating rock faces. This is the world’s steepest cogwheel railway!
Whether you take the world's steepest cogwheel railway from Alpnachstad or the panorama gondolas and aerial cableway from Kriens, the Pilatus offers a unique alpine experience! From Alpnachstad to Pilatus Kulm, the world's steepest cogwheel railway winds up through lush meadows carpeted with Alpine flowers, past sparkling mountain streams and fascinating rock faces.
Please Note: This sales price comprises ticket for Mount Pilatus plus Compulsory Public Transport Card.
Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne and admire the mountain scenery and the picturesque town of Lucerne from the water on this hour-long boat trip.
Embark on a scenic boat trip on Lake Lucerne in Switzerland. Hop aboard and make the most of this sightseeing boat trip by admiring the stunning views of the surrounding mountain scenery during the hour-long trip. You’ll see Lucerne from a unique perspective while on the water so be sure to snap photos of the picturesque town on the waterside!
Experience traditional Tyrolean music and dancing along with an authentic, three-course Austrian dinner!
Enjoy an evening of folk performances, with authentic Tyrolean music, folk dances and “shoe-slapping”, as well as typical Tyrolean songs and “yodelling”. You will also enjoy a dinner of authentic Austrian cuisine, with options including Tyrolean soup, pork escalope prepared in the Viennese style, Tyrolean Cheese Spaetzle (vegetarian option) and apple strudel. Includes the traditional Austrian performance, a three-course dinner, one drink and return transportation from the hotel.
Get a true taste of Tuscany with this culinary experience in Florence! Sit down for a family-style meal and indulge in classic Tuscan dishes.
Tuscany’s food draws millions of visitors to the region every year! Join this incredible culinary experience in Florence to taste it for yourself. Try some special local culinary traditions, served in a sit-down, family-style meal, including Bistecca alla Fiorentina (charcoal-grilled steak served on the bone), Tagliatelle al Tartufo (pasta with truffle), Risotto ai Porcini (risotto with porcini mushrooms), Crostini al Pomodoro (crusty bread with tomatoes and olive oil) and a glass of Chianti red wine. Round off the meal with a traditional Tuscan digestivo.
Take a water taxi cruise and gondola ride of Venice’s iconic waterways. Soak up the romantic sights from the canals and enjoy an included dinner.
Venice was made to be viewed from the canals! So, hop aboard a water taxi from Piazzale Roma to San Marco and take an evening cruise along the iconic waterways. Venice water taxis feature comfortable leather upholstery, private drivers and open-air seating. Then, look forward to the most quintessential Venice experience - a traditional gondola ride! Be enchanted by romantic scenes from palazzos and old tavernas. Enjoy an included pizza or pasta for dinner at a local restaurant before returning to Piazzale Roma in the glow of the twinkling lights on a water taxi.
Indulge in a traditional Hungarian feast as you admire Budapest’s top sights from the water with a nighttime cruise along the Danube River.
Delight in panoramic nighttime views as you cruise along the Danube with a local guide! See the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle Hill, the Chain Bridge and many more of the city's splendid sights. Enjoy a complimentary welcome drink and indulge in a Hungarian feast full of traditional dishes such as beef goulash and chicken paprikash. Vegetarian options are also available.
Please Note: Minimum numbers are required.
Soak up Vienna’s imperial history with visits to Schönbrunn Palace, the artsy Mariahilf and Neubau districts, and a historic Viennese café.
Discover Vienna’s imperial history during a visit to the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace! The UNESCO-listed, Baroque-style palace was the summer residence of the Habsburgs. Explore the opulent staterooms, view the beautiful gardens and learn about the Habsburg dynasty on a guided tour. Afterwards, travel back into the heart of the city and explore the hip and artsy districts of Mariahilf and Neubau on a walking tour, before visiting a historic café for coffee and cake! Vienna is famous for its coffee houses which offer grand furnishings and decadent confectionery.
Enjoy a classical concert held in a beautiful Viennese concert hall. The orchestra will play classics from the Strauss dynasty and Mozart.
Enjoy a concert featuring the music of one of the greatest composers of the Viennese classical period, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The orchestra will play classics from the Strauss dynasty and Mozart, held in beautiful concert halls like Kursalon Wien, Musikverein Golden Hall, State Opera and Konzerthaus.
Enjoy a delicious three-course Czech dinner with unlimited drinks while delighting in a traditional folk show complete with Czech music and dancing!
Experience a vibrant evening of traditional Czech folk music and dancing! Enjoy a delicious three-course dinner of authentic Czech dishes complete with unlimited drinks. While you enjoy your dinner, delight in a two-and-a-half-hour folk show performed by professional dancers and musicians in traditional Czech garb. Guests will be encouraged to participate in the festivities! Vegetarian options are available.
Discover Berlin’s fascinating history and vibrant modern culture. Visit the East Side Gallery, the Hackescher Markt, the Berlin TV Tower and more.
Uncover Berlin’s tremendous history, vibrant culture and fascinating hidden gems with this full day tour! Begin at the East Side Gallery, the largest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall, before finding out what life was like in the German Democratic Republic at the Museum in the Kulturbrauerei. Next, see the hidden sights of the Hackescher Markt with a local guide and taste traditional currywurst (the meal comes with a drink and a vegetarian option is available). End the day at the Berlin TV Tower which offers incredible views of the city.
Go on a walking food tour of Berlin’s vibrant Kreuzberg area and discover the delicious, varied cuisine and artistic sights of this neighbourhood.
Taste your way through the vibrant, artsy area of Kreuzberg. Historically, this neighbourhood was popular with artists and revolutionaries. Today, it’s full of street art and delicious, varied cuisine. A feast for the eyes and the stomach! Experience Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, a hub of street food where you’ll find many local and international delights from German beer and Turkish pide to vegan sweet treats. Learn more about this fascinating neighbourhood on a walking tour, visit the very quirky and cool Markthalle Neun and taste plenty of delicious snacks as you go!
Experience the Dutch countryside! Enjoy cheese and clog-making demonstrations, visit Volendam and see the windmills of Zaanse Schans.
This excursion begins with an entertaining demonstration of how traditional Dutch clogs are made (by hand), followed by a lesson in local cheese making. There is time to pop some clogs on, and taste the cheesy treats. A visit to the quaint fishing village of Volendam allows you to stretch your legs, wander the main street filled with cafés and local souvenirs, and admire the sprawling views while tasting some delicious poffertjes (mini Dutch pancakes). Your next stop is to the historical windmill village of Zaanse Schans, where you will discover how they were vital to the industrial development of the Netherlands. This is a great chance to get some fabulous photos! The coach will then take you back into the city centre, where you'll have free time to explore the city further.
Delight in one of the most delicious Dutch delicacies, Dutch pancakes, with a three-course dinner at a beautiful local restaurant in Amsterdam!
Delight in one of the most delicious Dutch delicacies with a three-course dinner at a local restaurant in Amsterdam! Dutch pancakes are much larger and thinner in comparison to American pancakes and come with a variety of sweet (who says you can’t have dessert for dinner?) or savoury toppings. Look forward to enjoying these Dutch favourites in a beautiful setting as this restaurant is filled with paintings from Dutch masters such as Rembrant and Vermeer.
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For pre-departure and visa information, as well as frequently asked questions regarding preparing for and travelling on this tour, please visit our Help Centre .
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This Best of Europe tour gives you a fully-fledged experience of western, central and eastern Europe over 22-days. Europe is home to a number of incredible countries so spending just over three weeks exploring gives you ample time to explore the highlights. On the best Europe trips you’ll see major cities, quaint villages, incredible natural scenery as well as iconic monuments across 15 countries.
This European trip itinerary provides the perfect mix of guided experiences plus free time to explore cities and destinations at your own pace.
Start and end in either London or Amsterdam (depending on the year of departure), which is an excellent and convenient travel base. For a different kind of Europe travel experience, you could add on an epic rail journey before or after you enjoy one of our best Europe tours!
On this tour, you’ll encounter so much to see and do in Europe with Expat Explore.
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You also have the chance to customise your trip to your liking with adding on the range of optional activities.
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From pubs to mountains, bustling city centres to scenic lakes, and all the best bits in between, this tour is stacked with incredible experiences!
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