Best Of Europe

Welcome to London! Meet the tour leader this morning and head out for your first experience of London on a city tour by bus! London is a bustling city full of historic relics, incredible art, royal landmarks and modern architecture! Keep an eye out for bucket list sites like Tower Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Next, enjoy free time for lunch in one of London’s central “foodie” markets. Afterwards, it’s time to delve into history on a tour of Westminster. Westminster is home to iconic London landmarks including Big Ben, the Palaces of Westminster and Westminster Abbey. Enjoy views of Buckingham Palace before hopping back on the coach. Admire more wonderful historic and modern sights as you see even more of London en route to a traditional English pub, where the group will enjoy an included dinner.

Driving tour of London: See London’s top sights and learn more about its history on a driving tour of the city! London is home to rich history, royal relics and buzzing modern areas! See some of the city’s most popular boroughs, keep an eye out for landmarks like Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Cutty Sark, and enjoy free time for lunch. Plus, enjoy an included tour of Westminser - 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 you bucket list too! 

Dinner in a traditional British pub: Tonight enjoy an included welcome dinner at a historic local pub, where you can try typical British dishes like fish and chips, bangers and mash (sausages and mashed potato) or a seasonal vegetarian dish.

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 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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

Leaving the churches and basilicas behind, today the journey continues to Venice, the famous “floating city”! On arrival, embark on an orientation walking tour with your tour leader. Tick off Venice’s bucket list-worthy sights including the Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s Square. The rest of the afternoon is free to spend as you wish. Choose to see Venice the traditional way - from the canals on a gondola ride, which offers a completely different perspective and appreciation for the amazing structure of this unique destination! A water taxi trip is another great way to explore Venice’s winding waterways and grand canal.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 more 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. Enjoy an included group dinner tonight.

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.

Driving tour of Berlin: Your tour leader 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!

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.

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.

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. Visit a local farm to see how Dutch cheese and clogs are crafted and visit the historic villages of Volendam and Zaanse Schans. Back in the city, choose to join the MOCO Museum & House of Bols excursion to indulge in modern and contemporary art at the MOCO Museum followed by a history lesson on Dutch gin with a rewarding cocktail at the end! Finally, opt in for tonight’s Diversely Dutch Dinner.

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!