Classic Europe Christmas & New Year

Your unforgettable Christmas and New Year tour of Europe starts today! Embark on a London city tour to behold iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. Then, enjoy a traditional pub lunch. This evening, join the Thames, Towers & Tastes optional excursion to cruise the Thames, tour surrounding attractions and tuck into a fish ‘n’ chips dinner.

Cross the English Channel and journey from London to Paris this morning. Upon arrival, embark on a driving tour of Paris to see the top attractions, including the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, to name a few! This evening, get your first taste of French cuisine with a group dinner at a local Parisian restaurant. 

Today, explore solo at leisure or join an optional excursion to best experience Paris. The Paris Like Locals excursion includes a macaron tasting, a visit to a perfume museum, a stop at the Louvre and a tour of the Latin Quarter! This afternoon, choose to visit Montmartre for a tour and three-course dinner. Later, join the fabulous Parisian cabaret excursion.

Enjoy a slice of life in small-town France in Burgundy. Explore the beautiful town of Beaune – make sure to visit the Hospices de Beaune and try some of the region's famous wines! Next, embark on the picturesque journey across the border into Switzerland towards the Swiss Alps, where the tour will touch down for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Frohe Weihnachten! Enjoy a visit to Jungfraujoch for a guaranteed white Christmas, as the area is covered in snow year-round! Join the day-long optional excursion to see the spectacular panoramic views and Alpine landscapes from the “Top of Europe”!  This evening, join the optional excursion for an authentic taste of traditional Swiss fondue to celebrate the festive season!

Today, swap the icy Alps for Italian gelato! Soak up spectacular views of Italy and add the Leaning Tower of Pisa to your photo album. Continue towards the Tuscany region known for its architecture, art, food and wine. Arrive in the stunning spa town of Montecatini Terme. Tonight, join the optional excursion to Montecatini Alto, including a delectable three-course meal!

Stop in Florence this morning and embark on an orientation tour of this exquisite city known for its Renaissance art and history. After, see how Italian leather is made and enjoy free time. Or, join the Taste of Tuscany excursion to enjoy a family-style Florentine feast. Next up is the Italian capital of Rome! This evening, enjoy a group dinner.

Enjoy a free day in Rome! Today offers two unmissable optional excursions. This morning, uncover ancient Rome on an optional excursion to the Colosseum and the ruins of the Roman Forum. Then, join 'Conquer the Capital' for spectacular sightseeing, including the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and Pantheon, as well as a delectable local lunch and gelato tasting!

The tour continues towards Venice today. Marvel at this popular world city’s must-see sights, including the iconic St. Mark’s Square, Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge. Join the Evening in Venice optional excursion to experience a gondola and water taxi ride and enjoy a unique vantage point of this floating city before sitting down for dinner at a local restaurant.

Say Guten Tag to Germany today! But first, visit the scenic Austrian city of Innsbruck. See the Golden Roof Museum before enjoying free time for lunch. Next, continue to Munich. See some of the highlights of this city that blends modernity and ancient history on an orientation tour. This evening, enjoy a traditional German dinner at a local restaurant.

Spend New Year's Eve in the picturesque Rhine Valley. Take a breathtaking cruise along the Rhine River, home to the most concentrated strip of castles in Europe! Conclude the cruise in the UNESCO-listed town of Boppard. Here, try local wines and gain expert knowledge of Rhine Valley varietals. This evening, enjoy a celebratory New Year’s Eve dinner at the hotel!

Frohes neues Jahr! Continue towards Amsterdam with a stop in the Dutch countryside. Try delectable Dutch cheese and witness how clogs are made! The next stop is the Riekermolen Windmill to capture memorable photos. Once in Amsterdam, embark on a canal cruise to sightsee from a unique vantage point. Enjoy free time before this evening's dinner at a local restaurant.

Head back to London, stopping in Bruges, Belgium on the way. Explore this medieval city with stunning cobbled streets and historic buildings. Be sure to try some Belgian chocolate or a traditional Belgian waffle! Arrive in London later today. Why not join tonight’s optional excursion to enjoy a delicious British curry dinner on the famous Brick Lane?

Two memorable weeks of exploring Europe over the festive season come to an end this morning. After breakfast at the hotel, say goodbye to your new travel companions and exchange details if you wish to stay in touch. Expat Explore wishes you a Happy New Year and a safe journey ahead!