European Vistas
European Vistas
$1980
European Vistas
8 Days Starting and ending in Hotel in Amsterdam
Visiting: Netherlands, Amsterdam, Rhine Valley, Ulm, Innsbruck, Verona, Venice, Lucerne, Swiss Alps, Burgundy, Paris, Brussels
Tour operator:
Tour code:
EV
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 51
Age range:
10-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on this epic Europe tour combining seven of the most incredible European vacation destinations! Start the exploration from charming and cool Amsterdam, cruising the canals and discovering the iconic clogs and Dutch cheese. Journey to the scenic city of Innsbruck in Austria and behold Germany’s Rhine River. Join a gondola ride in Venice, the "Floating City". Soak up the natural splendour of Lucerne in Switzerland and traverse the vineyard-draped rolling hills of the French countryside. Europe offers experiences, sights and attractions aplenty!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Of Tour In Amsterdam
Location: Netherlands, Amsterdam
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to day one in Amsterdam! This morning, meet up with your tour leader and group at the hotel. Then, head off to today's first stop at a local farm for a Dutch cheese and clogs demonstration. Next, join the optional excursion that journeys further into the Dutch countryside, or enjoy an afternoon of free time to explore. Tonight, embark on an idyllic Amsterdam canal cruise to discover the city's stunning 17th-century architecture and charming atmosphere. Then, sit down for a local welcome dinner with the tour group before enjoying more free time this evening. Consider a visit to Dam Square or even the infamous Red Light District!
Visit a local Dutch cheese farm and clog factory
Cruise along Amsterdam’s canals
Welcome dinner in Amsterdam
Day 2: Amsterdam - Rhine Valley
Location: Amsterdam, Rhine Valley
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, say goodbye to the Netherlands and journey to one of Germany's most stunning regions - the Rhine Valley. Upon arrival in Boppard, enjoy a wine tasting of the iconic Rhine Valley varietals. Then, hop onboard a Rhine Valley riverboat for a spectacular Rhine River cruise. Marvel at the highest concentration of Gothic castles in Europe along the river and admire the beautiful vineyards, towering cliffs and medieval German towns. Next, discover how German beer steins and cuckoo clocks are manufactured by local artisans. Head to the hotel in the Rhine Valley after an exciting day for an included group dinner.
Enjoy a wine tasting in Germany’s Rhine Valley
Cruise down the Rhine River
Learn how beer steins and cuckoo clocks are made
Day 3: Ulm - Innsbruck
Location: Ulm, Innsbruck
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to Innsbruck in Austria today and enjoy a stop in Ulm. Savour the time in this historic German city known for being the birthplace of Albert Einstein as well as for having the world's tallest church steeple! Next, head to Innsbruck, one of the world's popular travel destinations with activities for every type of traveller. For adventurers, there are plenty of extreme sports as it's close to the soaring Nordkette Alps, and for historians, a rich heritage in the legacy of the Habsburgs. Upon arrival, enjoy an orientation city tour before exploring further at leisure. Then, opt for an unmissable taste of Austrian culture on the optional Tyrol Folk Evening & Dinner.
Visit Ulm; birthplace of Einstein
Explore Innsbruck on an orientation tour
Day 4: Innsbruck - Verona - Venice
Location: Innsbruck, Verona, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart Innsbruck today and head to the mesmerising city of Venice! En route, step right into one of the most beloved love stories of all time on a visit to Verona whereRomeo and Juliet took place. Then, journey to the "Floating City" of Venice. Home to beautiful waterways and iconic art, Venice is sure to impress and captivate any traveller! Explore the city at leisure during your free time this evening. For more unforgettable Venetian experiences, join the optional An Evening in Venice excursion and embark on a water taxi and gondola cruise before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.
Visit Verona; setting of Shakespeare’sRomeo and Juliet
Experience the magic of Venice
Day 5: Venice - Lucerne - Swiss Alps
Location: Venice, Lucerne, Swiss Alps
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, return to Alpine parts as the journey continues to Lucerne. Be sure to have your cameras charged and ready to capture what's considered one of Switzerland's most stunning cities! With a bright blue lake, well-preserved old town, waterfront promenades, covered bridges, and picturesque plazas, all framed by the towering Swiss Alps, it's no wonder some consider this the quintessential Swiss experience. For spectacular views, opt to join the optional Lake Lucerne cruise. Then, enjoy an orientation tour with your tour leader before heading to this evening's hotel in the Swiss Alps for an included dinner.
Experience Lucerne and marvel at the views
Day 6: Swiss Alps - Burgundy
Location: Swiss Alps, Burgundy
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, explore the Swiss Alps with some free time. Or, embark on an unforgettable Alpine experience by joining the Jungfraujoch optional excursion. Journey to the top for the most spectacular Alpine views and enjoy the year-round snow and exciting activities at the top! Then, head to France. Journey to the Burgundy region, known for incredible wine and cuisine, and enjoy an orientation tour of Dijon upon arrival. Be sure to admire the rich history showcased in the outstanding museums and take in the stunning Renaissance architecture for life-long memories! This evening, enjoy an included group dinner.
Discover Dijon on an orientation tour
Day 7: Burgundy - Paris
Location: Burgundy, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Next up is the "City of Lights"! Paris is an iconic city with world-renowned landmarks, magnificent museums, grand galleries and beautiful boutiques. Upon arrival, embark on an orientation cruise down the River Seine, spotting incredible attractions like the Louvre and enjoying a classic French baguette along the way. Then, head out for a driving tour of Paris, the fabulous French capital. Keep your camera ready to snap shots of the iconic Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe! Once done, visit the spectacular Fragonard perfume museum before spending the rest of the day as you wish. This evening, join the optional excursion for an evening in Montmartre and opt for an authentic Parisian cabaret show!
Cruise along the River Seine and enjoy lunch onboard
See the highlights of Paris on a driving tour
Visit a famous perfume museum in Paris
Day 8: Brussels - End Of Tour In Amsterdam
Location: Brussels, Amsterdam
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today marks the end of this unforgettable Europe trip but first, stop in Brussels on the way back to Amsterdam to roam the streets and try some traditional Belgian fare likemoules et frites, a myriad of beer, and the renowned chocolate and waffles. This is also a great opportunity for some last-minute souvenir shopping! Next, stop at Brussels’ unbelievable Atomium before continuing to Amsterdam for the end of the tour. We hope you made life-long memories on tour with us!
Explore Brussels; Belgium’s charismatic capital
Enjoy a photo stop at the impressive Atomium
What's Included
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Accommodation
7 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability) -
Transport
Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days) -
Meals
7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners
*Vegetarian options available for all meals on request -
Tour Leader
Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details
What's Not Included
International flightsTravel to the start point and from the end point is not included. We recommend using Skyscanner to find the best deals on international flights.Travel insuranceFor a relatively small price, travel insurance provides you with peace of mind so that you can enjoy your tour without any worries.
All passengers travelling on an Expat Explore tour are required to have valid travel insurance cover and you are responsible for arranging your own insurance.
Mode of Transport
Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)
Accommodation
7 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)
Traveller Comfort - *COACH* tours
We welcome all travellers on our tours but we would like to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. In light of this, please ensure that you are happy with the below information and level of fitness required.
Expat Explore tries to be as accommodating as possible, however, our tours are unfortunately not designed for people travelling with wheelchairs or severe mobility issues.
Our tours are fast paced because they are designed for you to see the most a destination has to offer. We also want to ensure that you explore as much as possible, which may require long periods without stops on the coach as we drive to a new destination.
We offer walking tours in most cities (up to 3 hours), and a wheelchair is not always a practical option as there are often cobbled streets and stairs on these tours.
For travellers in wheelchairs, you will only be able to store your wheelchair under the coach with the other luggage. Thus, on the long drives between cities you will not necessarily have access to your wheelchair if we make a quick bathroom stop along the way. Please note that travelling with a wheelchair could prove difficult as our coaches don't have wheelchair lifts, as such you will need to be able to board and alight the coach on your own.
With regards to our accommodation, not all hotels have lifts and this means potentially having to carry bags up and down stairs.
For more information regarding traveller fitness please see our Terms and Conditions.
Experiences
Visit a local Dutch cheese farm and clog factory
Cruise along Amsterdam’s canals
Welcome dinner in Amsterdam
Enjoy a wine tasting in Germany’s Rhine Valley
Cruise down the Rhine River
Learn how beer steins and cuckoo clocks are made
Visit Ulm; birthplace of Einstein
Explore Innsbruck on an orientation tour
Visit Verona; setting of Shakespeare’sRomeo and Juliet
Experience the magic of Venice
Experience Lucerne and marvel at the views
Discover Dijon on an orientation tour
Cruise along the River Seine and enjoy lunch onboard
See the highlights of Paris on a driving tour
Visit a famous perfume museum in Paris
Explore Brussels; Belgium’s charismatic capital
Enjoy a photo stop at the impressive Atomium
Check out our Q&As
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What currencies are required for this tour?
Euro
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting point for the first day of your tour. Please see the meeting point information for details on how to reach the meeting point.
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Are vaccinations required for this tour?
We are committed to curating excellent travel experiences and to do so we need all of our travelers to feel safe.
In order to ensure the peace of mind and safety of our travelers and staff on board the coach, we are still requesting that all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status, produce a negative Covid test. This test can be a PCR test -
Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
All of the hotels on this tour offer Wi-Fi, which is available free of charge as part of your Expat Explore tour.
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
A full list of confirmed accommodation names and addresses for your particular departure will be emailed to you around 1 week before the tour starts.
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes, Full air-conditioning
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What is the tipping policy?
Whilst we fully understand that some nationalities are not accustomed to tipping, this is a normal part of the culture in many of the countries we visit. Tipping has become an increasingly accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants, bars and taxis worldwide.Expat Explore crew members
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
All travellers are required to carry their own bags, get on and off the coach, and use public transport. Our city walking tours can last up to 3 hours and certain places involve walking up and down lots of steps. We want you to enjoy your tour, so read through the itinerary thoroughly and make your own conclusions as to whether you feel that you are fit and healthy enough.
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
We have searched and invested in excellent accommodation options, either located in cities or well placed with public transport connections. Clean linen, towels is always included. Toiletries (shampoo, shower gel etc) and hair dryers are not always included, so you may wish to bring these with you. Accommodation is provided in twin share en-suite rooms. We use a mix of mostly 2, 3 & 4-star hotels.
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Are flights included in this tour?
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting destination for the first day of your tour. Make sure you keep departure times and possible delays in mind when booking flights.
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
Yes
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees are not included.
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Our tours are not suitable for young children, so we set a minimum age limit of 10 years old.
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No, visas are each traveler’s personal responsibility, and we recommend that plenty of time is allowed for visas to be applied for. When applying for your visa, please ensure that the proper research is carried out before you apply, and that you deal directly with the embassies or certified agents with regard to acquiring correct and timely information. We cannot take responsibility for customers
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Certain nationalities may require a visa(s) for this tour.
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our customer services team. Please note that the room provided may be a single room with a single bed.
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What is the maximum group size?
It depends on how many other people book! There could be up to 51 other passengers, so you will have the opportunity to make lots of friends!
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Due to weight and space limitations, you are allowed to bring one main piece of luggage weighing no more than 20kg, and one small soft bag for hand luggage weighing a maximum of 7kg. On all tours, you will have to carry your own luggage (e.g. into hotels and up to your room if hotels don’t have elevators). Please bear this in mind when you are deciding what to pack
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
All our tours are conducted in English.
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Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Our travelers come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests.
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Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
Our tour leaders come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests. They are all confident and well-travelled with an in-depth knowledge of the destinations they are working in, and a passion for helping you make the most out of your Expat Explore tour.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
If you are travelling alone there is no compulsory charge - you will share a twin room with another passenger of the same gender. There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our team.
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Children on tour?
Our tours are not suitable for young children which is why we have a minimum age limit of 10 years old. However, at the discretion of Expat Explore we may consider younger children on certain tours if they meet certain criteria and a request is received in writing via email. Minors (between 10 and 18 years of age) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who accepts full responsibility for them. Unaccompanied minors will not be accepted on tour. Expat Explore reserves the right to decline any booking at our discretion. Any minor (between 10 and 18 years of age) is priced the same as an adult.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
The health and safety of our travellers and employees are our top priority. Which means, when you travel with us, our enhanced hygiene protocols will ensure you do so in a safe and responsible way - ask for details of current policies.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2005
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
At Expat Explore we value responsible travel and are committed to exploring the world consciously and kindly. We are proud to make responsible travel possible with a number of our sustainable travel practices!
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Relate is a South African based not-for-profit organisation that Expat Explore supports. The group aims to help those less fortunate create better lives for themselves through a variety of fundraising initiatives. On our South Africa tours, each passenger will receive an Expat Explore branded Relate bracelet. We donate the cost of these bracelets to our chosen Relate charity: the Nelson Mandela Sc
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Free Date Changes
Expat Explore Travel allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 91 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Expat Explore Travel requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of expat explore travel charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.
At 44 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.