European Discovery - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group
European Discovery - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through Europe with the "European Discovery" tour, starting in Amsterdam and concluding in Paris. This classic group tour takes you through the heart of Holland, Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, and France, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Cruise Amsterdam's historic canals, explore the medieval charm of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and savor the flavors of Prague's traditional pastries. Marvel at the grandeur of Salzburg's Mirabell Palace, witness the artistry of Venetian glassblowers, and immerse yourself in Rome's ancient treasures. Ascend Mount Stanserhorn for panoramic views, and indulge in Parisian delights with a local food lover. With a blend of guided tours and leisure time, this tour promises an unforgettable European adventure filled with iconic sights, authentic dining, and enriching experiences. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Amsterdam
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Amsterdam, enjoy a day of leisure. This evening join your Travel Director for a dinner. Mingle and get to know your fellow travelers as you cruise along some of the many quaint, tree-lined canals, to explore the heart of the Old City, before enjoying a pleasant evening of dinner and wine at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Legends Along The Rhine
Location: Würzburg
Accommodation Name: Maritim, Würzburg
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross into Germany, through the Rhine Valley and into Würzburg, where there is time to stroll through the heart of the Old Town and down to the Alte Mainbrücke, the 16th century bridge over the River Main, adorned with sandstone statues. With a Local Expert, visit the imposing Würzburg Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at intricate decorations and lavish staterooms boasting with French, Austrian and Venetian influences.
Day 3: Rothenburg And Golden Prague Relaxed Start
Location: Prague
Accommodation Name: NH Collection Prague City.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Venture to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the most well-preserved town on the Romantic Road. Continue east to the Czech border, passing the town of Pilsen renowned for its beer, to reach the Golden City of Prague. In the evening, perhaps take a river cruise through the heart of the city?
Day 4: Prague, City Of A Hundred Spires
Location: Prague
Accommodation Name: NH Collection Prague City.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Prague with Insight Choice. Choose to walk the courtyards of the Castle and visit the imposing St. Vitus Cathedral. Alternatively, join your Local Expert for a walk through the Jewish Quarter to learn about a different side of the history of Prague and taste Tredlník, traditional chimney cakes. Then, the city is all yours to explore. Perhaps rummage through the renowned antique stores or shop for the finest Bohemian crystal? In the evening, why not enjoy an Optional Experience in the Czech countryside?
Day 5: Salzburg, City Of Mozart Relaxed Start
Location: Salzburg
Accommodation Name: Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Center
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through the Czech Republic and head south across the Austrian border to Salzburg, the city of Mozart and The Sound of Music. Accompanied by a Local Expert, explore the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace, featuring the fountains and statues made famous in the "Do, Re, Mi" scene. Later, visit Residence Square and its iconic fountain, where Maria performed "I Have Confidence." Admire the imposing fortress, the grand cathedral, and Mozart’s birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse. In the evening, enjoy a Farm-to-Table dining experience at a local organic farm, set in a charming old barn or courtyard. Indulge in homemade dishes and locally crafted cider.
Day 6: The Tauern Mountains To Venice Relaxed Start
Location: Venice
Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Salzburg to shop for local marzipan specialties. Perhaps take the opportunity to marvel at impressive views atop Kehlsteinhaus - the Eagle’s Nest - a unique example of historic architecture in a stunning alpine setting? Later, stunning scenery surrounds you as you travel down the Tauern Mountains to cross the Italian border. Continue to the romantic city of Venice, Queen of the Adriatic, where your hotel is perfectly located in one of the quietest peaceful and authentic Venetian districts.
Day 7: The Magic Of 'La Serenissima' Relaxed Start
Location: Venice
Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, prepare to embrace this most romantic city. See the immense Campanile and Doge's Palace on St. Mark's Square, connected to the ancient prisons by the Bridge of Sighs. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you witness the skill of glassblowers on a visit to a traditional arts center. The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps shop in the small arcades or why not cruise the Venetian lagoon to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine?
Day 8: Onto The Eternal City Of Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: Bettoja Massimo D'Azeglio, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a center of celebration. As festivities unfold, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure you make the most of your time as you visit the Eternal City. Head into the Apennine Mountains and the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria. Your journey continues as you follow the course of the Tiber to your hotel in the Eternal City of Rome. This evening, enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, welcomed by the Rector of the basilica. Admire the stunning 9th-century Byzantine mosaics illuminated for this exclusive visit as you view the legendary well and renowned chapels followed by dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 9: Rome With The Locals Relaxed Start
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: Bettoja Massimo D'Azeglio, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rome is about art, antiquity, piazzas and palaces, and your morning walking tour with a Local Expert includes this in abundance. Toss a coin into the spectacular Trevi Fountain and see the best-preserved monument from the Roman period - the Pantheon, before enjoying free time to do as the Romans do, in Piazza Navona. Perhaps join a tour inside the Catacombs with our local expert. This evening, enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, welcomed by the Rector of the basilica. Admire the stunning 9th-century Byzantine mosaics illuminated for this exclusive visit as you view the legendary well and renowned chapels.
Day 10: The Vatican And Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation Name: Bettoja Massimo D'Azeglio, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start the day with your Local Expert they introduce you to the grandeur of the city, starting with the Vatican State, the richest community in the world. Visit the Vatican Museums, full of priceless treasures collected by the Popes. Enjoy fast-track entry to avoid the crowds and admire the Papal art collection. Once inside the Sistine Chapel, admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling. Your travels continue through peaceful Umbria and Tuscany, to arrive at the city of Florence. A Local Expert will accompany you to the Duomo, where the Gates of Paradise adorn the baptistery. Continue to Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city. Lined with fountains and statues, it acts as an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Take time to gaze at Neptune and David as you explore the historic city center.
Day 11: The Cinque Terre And Italian Riviera
Location: Cinque Terre
Accommodation Name: B and B Park Hotel Suiss, Santa Margherita Ligure
Meals Included: Breakfast
The famous Italian Riviera and the Cinque Terre are a highlight of your journey. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes. With a Local Expert, appreciate the views as you approach one of the picturesque fishing villages by boat (weather permitting). Please note that the cruise is weather dependent. Spend time exploring the old medieval quarter or the popular sandy beach. Continue to your resort on the Italian Riviera. Savor authentic Italian cuisine with a delicious dinner.
Day 12: Across The Alps To Lucerne
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation Name: Astoria Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pass Milan as you head north for the Italian Lake District via Lake Lugano. Continue into the heart of the Swiss Alps, passing through the Saint Gotthard Tunnel, one of the longest road tunnels in the world. Travel alongside towering mountains and past rushing torrents, down to scenic Lake Lucerne, where you are leisure for the rest of the afternoon.
Day 13: Lucerne’S Lakes, Mountains And Lion
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation Name: Astoria Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-roof deck cable car, powered by solar panels, takes you to the summit. Stroll along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, and discover the local wildlife and flora. Upon returning to Lucerne, visit the town's iconic Lion Monument, carved into a limestone cliff and dedicated to the heroic Swiss Guards who died defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll across the covered Chapel Bridge and admire the Baroque Jesuit Church. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure—perhaps shop for fine watches and delectable Swiss chocolates. This evening, enjoy a selection of fine restaurants to choose from during your Dine-Around evening.
Day 14: Sights And Delights Of Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through the rural French countryside of Burgundy, famous for its vineyards and wines, to arrive in the vibrant City of Light. During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral and the imposing facades of the Louvre. Discover the banks of the Seine with its many romantic bridges, see the obelisk in the center of the Place de la Concorde and drive along the Champs Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe. With the evening free, there are countless opportunities to enjoy the lively atmosphere of this glittering city. Why not visit one of the world-famous cabaret shows?
Day 15: The Food And Flavors Of Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with an Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join an avid foodie to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. In the evening, indulge in refined French cuisine during your Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole, frequently visited by the French entertainer Josephine Baker.
Day 16: Au Revoir Paris
Location: Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bid farewell to your traveling companions as your journey comes to an end. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport.
What's Included
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Choice Highlights
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Prague and Paris.
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Top Rated Highlights
Experience guided tours and visits to iconic landmarks in cities like Amsterdam, Wurzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Salzburg, Venice, Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre, Stanserhorn, Lucerne, and Paris.
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Make Travel Matter
Participate in experiences that support sustainable development goals, such as glassblowing in Venice and a conservation talk at Stanserhorn.
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Authentic Dining
Enjoy local dining experiences in Amsterdam, Salzburg, Lucerne, and Paris.
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Insight Choice
Explore Prague and Paris with local experts, offering unique insights and experiences.
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Dining Summary
Includes 7 dinners with wine and 15 breakfasts.
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Additional Included Highlights
Personal radio headsets, hotel and restaurant tips, taxes, porterage charges, and complimentary Wi-Fi are included.
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Insight Experiences
Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome during an after-hours visit.
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Well-being
Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned coach, featuring double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as a river cruise in Prague or a visit to the Eagle’s Nest in Salzburg are not included.
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Transfers Outside Scheduled Times
Transfers are only available at scheduled times.
If your flights are outside these times, you may need to purchase transfers or make your own arrangements.
Dining Summary
- 7 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 15 Breakfast (B)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini's first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.
- Vatican: Visit the Vatican Museums, witness the genius of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and see St. Peter's Basilica.
Travel Director
- "One food I really love introducing my guests to is tramezzini sandwiches because they are a real art form in Venice. For the locals it is a quick inexpensive bite to get them through the day...best eaten standing up at the bar!"
- "It's magical to see how a group of guests comes together over the course of our trip. I can always tell when that's happening because suddenly the enthusiasm is palpable."
- "Paris is truly a delight to all the senses – seeing the iconic architecture, hearing about the history, smelling the wonderful bakeries and tasting the local specialties during our foodie walk."
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort aboard a luxurious, air-conditioned coach with double the standard legroom, ensuring a relaxing journey across Europe, from Amsterdam to Paris, with scenic routes and expert guidance.
Accommodation
Experience comfort and elegance at renowned hotels such as Hilton Amsterdam, Maritim Wurzburg, NH Collection Prague City, and more, offering a blend of modern amenities and classic charm throughout your European journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes several unique experiences such as a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Venice where you can witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, and a journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a solar-powered cable car with a chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger. Additionally, there is an exclusive after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome, where you can admire the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics.
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Are there any special dining experiences during the tour?
Yes, the tour offers several special dining experiences. In Amsterdam, you will have a Welcome Dinner with wine at a local restaurant. In Salzburg, you can enjoy authentic Farm-to-Table dining with homemade Austrian dishes. In Lucerne, there is a Dine-Around Evening where you can choose from a selection of restaurants. In Paris, you will have a Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole.
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What are some of the highlights of the Prague visit?
In Prague, you have the option to explore the courtyards of the Castle and visit St. Vitus Cathedral, or join a Local Expert to stroll through the Jewish Quarter and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry. The city is then yours to explore, with options like a river cruise or walking the Royal Route.
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What activities are available in Paris during the tour?
In Paris, you can choose to explore the Montorgueil district to experience community life or join a local food lover to sample local treats and delicacies. You will also have the opportunity to see iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe, and enjoy a walk along the Seine.
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What is the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Venice?
The MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Venice involves visiting a traditional arts center to witness the skill of glassblowers. This experience supports the survival of the traditional craft of glassblowing and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
European Discovery - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Classic Group
16 Days Starting in Amsterdam, Netherlands and ending in Paris, France
Visiting: Amsterdam, Würzburg, Prague, Salzburg, Venice, Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre, Lucerne, Paris ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided