Highlights of Europe - Start London, End Paris, Classic Group, Summer
Highlights of Europe - Start London, End Paris, Classic Group, Summer
$6785
Highlights of Europe - Start London, End Paris, Classic Group, Summer
15 Days Starting in London, England and ending in Paris, France
Visiting: London, Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Florence, Lake Maggiore, Lucerne, Paris
Tour operator:
Tour code:
E933N26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Highlights of Europe" tour, starting in London and concluding in Paris. This 15-day adventure takes you through the heart of Europe, visiting iconic cities and breathtaking landscapes across England, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy, Vatican City, Switzerland, and France. Enjoy luxurious accommodations, delectable meals, and exclusive experiences such as a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome, a glassblowing workshop in Venice, and a scenic cable car ride up Mount Stanserhorn. With guided tours, local insights, and ample free time to explore, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and relaxation.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To London
Location: London
Accommodation Name: Thistle Marble Arch, London
Welcome to London. After checking into your hotel, the afternoon is free to enjoy a city that is famous for its pomp and pageantry. Perhaps relax with a walk along the Serpentine in Hyde Park or window shop in the elegant boutiques of Knightsbridge. Alternatively, you may want to stroll along the Thames to the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London.
Day 2: Depart From London By Eurostar And Onto Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Amsterdam
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meet your Travel Director and transfer to London's St. Pancras Station to board the high-speed Eurostar. Your comfortable rail journey takes you through the Channel Tunnel to Brussels, en route to Amsterdam. Later, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception. Get to know your fellow guests as you cruise along some of the 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 3: The Rhine Valley And Heidelberg
Location: Heidelberg
Accommodation Name: Marriott, Heidelberg
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take a scenic drive through the Rhine Valley to see quaint villages, hilltop castles and hear the legend of the Lorelei Rock. Follow the Neckar River to Heidelberg and visit Heidelberg Castle with a Local Expert.
Day 4: Mountain-Ringed Innsbruck
Location: Innsbruck
Accommodation Name: AC, Innsbruck
Meals Included: Breakfast
Skirt the northern Black Forest and head towards the rolling Bavarian Alps. Stop beneath the royal castles of Hohenschwangau and King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein, rumoured to have inspired Walt Disney's iconic castle. Once over the Austrian border, continue to the Tyrolean capital of Innsbruck. Tour the architectural jewels of the city, seeing the Imperial Palace, Golden Roof and the 14th century houses of the Old Town.
Day 5: Across The Dolomites To Venice Relaxed Start
Location: Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue your journey, crossing the Italian border and on through the Dolomites. Amongst the hills of Conegliano Veneto, stop at a local family winery in Veneto to discover the art of prosecco production. Savor a tasting of these luxurious sparkling wines. Continue to the romantic city of Venice, Queen of the Adriatic. In the evening, enjoy a dinner with wine.
Day 6: The Magic Of La Serenissima Relaxed Start
Location: Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up ready to embrace this romantic city. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you witness the skill of glassblowers on a visit to a traditional glassblowing workshop. Take a private cruise to St. Mark's Square where the city's former wealth and power is evidenced by the riches of St. Mark's Basilica. Admire the Doge's Palace and its adjoining Bridge of Sighs. With the rest of the day free, why not cruise the Venetian lagoon to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine?
Day 7: The Eternal City Of Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head into the Apennine Mountains and venture through the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria. Follow the course of the Tiber to the Eternal City of Rome. Enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, welcomed by the Rector of the basilica. Gaze in awe at the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics, illuminated for this evening's experience, and see the first sculpture by Bernini. Italian culture is deeply rooted in hospitality with food, friends and family being central to everyday life. For dinner, you’re invited into the home of a Roman local to experience Italian hospitality at its best.
Day 8: Papal And Imperial Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
During your two-night stay, join a Local Expert for a tour of the priceless art housed in the Vatican Museums and the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel. Then explore St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world. Cross the River Tiber to see the largest amphitheater of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum and enjoy the afternoon at your leisure.
Day 9: The Chianti Hills To Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation Name: NH Firenze, Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive to the Chianti Hills and 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 a virtual open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. A leisurely afternoon gives you time to shop for quality goods, like gold and leather, which Florence is famous for. Alternatively, there is the option to visit the Accademia Gallery with an art historian to see Michelangelo's famed masterpiece, 'David.' In the evening, savor an authentic meal at a local trattoria in the heart of Florence.
Day 10: Lake Maggiore Relaxed Start
Location: Lake Maggiore
Accommodation Name: Simplon, Baveno
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel past Milan, the capital of Lombardy, as you journey north to the beautiful Italian Lake District, a favorite retreat of the rich and famous where Alpine scenery combines with luxuriant subtropical vegetation. Relax and enjoy an afternoon at leisure at this popular resort and beautiful lake. Perhaps choose to take a cruise to the lovely Isola Bella for a guided tour of the incredible palace and stunning Botanical Gardens? Later, the choice is yours for your Dine-Around Evening. Enjoy your preferred dining experience from a selection of hand-picked local restaurants, each offering their own unique cuisine and ambience.
Day 11: The Alps And Onto Lucerne Relaxed Start
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, enjoy your last moments among the charming Italian Lake District before your travels continue across the Swiss border. Explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-top cable car powered by solar panels take you up the summit. Take in the pristine mountain air and, on a clear day, witness views as far as Alsace and the Black Forest in Germany. Walk along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, with the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora. Continue to lakeside Lucerne where the afternoon is at your leisure. You may choose to enjoy a cruise on Lake Lucerne with its dramatic vistas.
Day 12: Lakeside Lucerne Relaxed Start
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
The emotive Lion Monument, carved into a limestone cliff, is a memorial dedicated to the heroic Swiss Guards who died defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution, which is a source of great pride to the people of Lucerne. See this beautiful work before strolling across the Chapel Bridge to see the ornate Jesuit Church. With the day free, there is plenty of time for shopping for delectable chocolate and glamorous Swiss watches in the traffic-free Old Town. Perhaps venture into the countryside for a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride and meet the local farmers?
Day 13: Sights And Delights Of Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through the rural French country side of Alsace and Burgundy regions, famous for their vineyards and wines, to arrive in the vibrant City of Light. During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, 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 14: The Food And Flavors Of Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you can enjoy an Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join an avid food lover as you head into areas where Parisians go about their daily lives to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the historic restaurant La Coupole. Delight in French cuisine and delicious wine.
Day 15: 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
-
Meals
14 Breakfasts and 6 Dinners with Wine are included.
-
Activities
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Paris.
-
Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided to give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights without missing any commentary.
-
Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you don't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency.
-
Porterage
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
-
Insight Flourish
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, a local specialty representing the destination.
-
Wi-Fi
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
-
Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.
-
Welcome Dinner
Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in Amsterdam for a delightful Welcome Dinner, served with wine.
-
Prosecco Tasting
Visit a local winery in Veneto and delight in a tasting of their magnificent prosecco.
What's Not Included
-
Flights
Flights to and from the start and end locations are not included.
-
Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and phone calls are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
-
Additional Transfers
Transfers outside the scheduled times or for flights not matching the itinerary start and end dates are not included.
-
Meals Not Mentioned
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
-
Gratuities for Optional Activities
Gratuities for optional activities and excursions are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with high-speed Eurostar trains, luxurious air-conditioned coaches with double legroom, and private cruises, ensuring a comfortable and seamless journey.
Accommodation
Stay in luxurious hotels such as Thistle Marble Arch in London, Hilton in Amsterdam, and Marriott Rive Gauche in Paris, offering comfort and convenience throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of activities can I expect in Paris during the tour?
In Paris, you can choose between exploring the picturesque Montorgueil district to learn about community life or joining a local food lover to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. Additionally, you will have a guided walk through the car-free, pedestrianized neighborhood, visiting landmarks such as passages couverts and Patrick Blanc's jardin vertical 'oasis d'Aboukir'.
-
What unique experiences are included in Venice?
In Venice, you will witness the ancient skill of glassblowing at a traditional workshop, take a private cruise to St. Mark's Square, and admire the riches of St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs. You will also have the option to cruise the Venetian lagoon to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine.
-
What special dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes several special dining experiences such as a Welcome Dinner in Amsterdam, a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina dinner in Florence, a home-cooked meal with a local host in Rome, a Dine-Around Evening in Baveno with a selection of hand-picked local restaurants, and a rousing dinner with wine at La Coupole in Paris.
-
Are there any unique transportation experiences on this tour?
Yes, the tour includes a high-speed Eurostar train journey from London to Amsterdam via the Channel Tunnel, and a journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy.
-
What kind of guided tours are included in Rome?
In Rome, you will have a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes with exclusive access to its Byzantine mosaics and Bernini's first sculpture. Additionally, a Local Expert will guide you through the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. You will also explore the exterior of the Colosseum and other medieval buildings during your orientation with the Travel Director.
-
What are some of the highlights of the tour in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, you will explore Mount Stanserhorn on an open-top cable car, enjoy spectacular views from the summit, and have the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger. In Lucerne, you will see the emotive Lion Monument, stroll across the Chapel Bridge, and visit the ornate Jesuit Church. You will also have free time to shop for Swiss watches and chocolate in the traffic-free Old Town.
-
What kind of accommodations can I expect during the tour?
The tour includes stays at various hotels such as Thistle Marble Arch in London, Hilton in Amsterdam, Marriott in Heidelberg, AC in Innsbruck, Room 007 Select in Rome, NH Firenze in Florence, Simplon in Baveno, Astoria in Lucerne, and Marriott Rive Gauche in Paris.
-
Are there any special cultural experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several cultural experiences such as a visit to a local winery in Veneto to learn about prosecco production, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at a traditional glassblowing workshop in Venice, and a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to join a local food lover in Paris to explore small shops and sample local delicacies.
-
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.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
-
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.
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
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.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Saturday - Saturday
Apr 18, 2026 - May 02, 2026Saturday - Saturday
May 09, 2026 - May 23, 2026Saturday - Saturday
May 23, 2026 - Jun 06, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Jun 06, 2026 - Jun 20, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Jul 04, 2026 - Jul 18, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Jul 25, 2026 - Aug 08, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Aug 08, 2026 - Aug 22, 2026Saturday - Saturday
Sep 05, 2026 - Sep 19, 2026Friday - Friday
Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 06, 2026Book with Confidence
-
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.
-
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.
-
Terms and Conditions