Tour Overview
Embark on the "European Whirl End Paris" tour, a captivating journey through nine enchanting countries. Begin in the vibrant city of London, then traverse the scenic landscapes of Belgium, Holland, and Germany. Experience the charm of Amsterdam's canals, the historic allure of Heidelberg, and the cultural richness of Munich and Innsbruck. In Italy, marvel at Venice's glassblowing artistry and Rome's ancient wonders, before savoring a Tuscan meal with a local family. Discover Florence's Renaissance treasures and Switzerland's picturesque Lucerne. Conclude your adventure in Paris, exploring iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. Travel in luxury with air-conditioned coaches and high-speed trains, staying in carefully selected hotels for a seamless and unforgettable European experience. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to London
Location: London
Accommodation Name: Park Plaza Riverbank
The vibrant British capital where you will spend the next two nights, enjoying the pomp and pageantry of a city that effortlessly combines old and new.
Day 2: Discover Historic London
Location: London
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Park Plaza Riverbank
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join a Local Specialist this morning for a tour to see the iconic sites of London, including Big Ben, the imposing Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Spend a leisurely afternoon shopping on Carnaby Street, consider visiting one of London’s museums or wander along the Thames watching ambitious Londoners pound the pavements.
Day 3: Eurostar™ to Brussels and on to Amsterdam
Location: Brussels, Amsterdam
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure City
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning we meet our Travel Director before traveling to London's St. Pancras International where we will board the Eurostar™ for a high-speed train journey to Brussels and a luxury coach journey to Amsterdam. Enjoy an orientation of this historic Dutch city before joining your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a dinner cruise on its canals.
Day 4: Journey to the Rhineland and a Scenic Cruise
Location: Boppard, St. Goar, Heidelberg
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Leonardo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The Winter version of this tour will overnight in Heidelberg. Driving through the lush landscapes of The Netherlands and Germany, we arrive in Boppard where we board a cruise along the Rhine to St. Goar, passing vineyard-clad hills and medieval castles perched above riverside towns. Arriving in the Baroque city of Heidelberg, we explore its unexpected highlights before traveling to your hotel.
Day 5: Off to Innsbruck
Location: Munich, Innsbruck
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Grauer Bär, Alphotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Crossing the Swabian Alps on the edge of the Black Forest, we arrive in the Bavarian capital of Munich. Our orientation takes us past the Hofbrauhaus, reputedly the most famous Beerhall in the world, and the neo-Gothic Town Hall which dominates the Marienplatz. We cross the Austrian border next, arriving in Innsbruck, the capital of the Alps. Admire the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture of the Old Town, including Emperor Maximilian's famous Golden Roof with its ornate façade and consider an evening of traditional Tyrolean entertainment.
Day 6: Onwards to the Canals of Venice Make Travel Matter
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Hotel, Hotel
Accommodation Name: Novotel Mestre Castellana
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through the emerald-green landscape along the Brenner Pass into Italy and across the Dolomite Mountains to Venice. We cruise the beautiful Venetian lagoon by private launch to the gateway of Venice, St. Mark's Square. View the ornate Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs, so named for the sound made by condemned prisoners as they took one last longing look at their beautiful city before meeting their fate. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience where you’ll witness the centuries-old craft of Venetian glassblowing. You’ll learn how the master craftsmen shape the molten glass to make the exquisite and delicate works of art that adorn homes all over the world and perhaps be inspired to buy your own souvenir as a reminder of this special visit. There’s time later to enjoy the city your way. Get lost in Venice, cross bridges and discover hidden campi where locals share their daily stories over a glass of Venetian Spritz.
Day 7: All Roads Lead to Rome Connect with Locals
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Hotel, Hotel
Accommodation Name: Barceló Aran Mantegna
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Travel south across the Veneto Plain, passing Bologna and the dramatic Apennine Mountains as well as the green and golden fields of Lazio before reaching Rome, the 'Eternal City'. En route, we Connect With Locals over lunch at a Be My Guest experience and enjoy true Tuscan hospitality with a local family on their private estate in the Chianti countryside.
Day 8: Discover Ancient Rome and the Vatican City
Location: Vatican City, Rome
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Barceló Aran Mantegna
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our first stop today sees us discover the divine beauty of the Vatican City with a Local Specialist. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to see the magnificent frescoed ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. We continue to Ancient Rome to view Roman Forum, the walls of the iconic Colosseum and Circus Maximus, once the site of exhilarating chariot races centuries ago. The afternoon is yours to explore the city on your terms. Sit on the Spanish Steps savoring a tasty gelato, or shop up a storm on the trendy Via Condotti.
Day 9: Continue to Renaissance Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Grand Mediterraneo
Meals Included: Breakfast
From Rome, we travel north through the rolling countryside of Tuscany and along the Arno valley to the 'Cradle of the Renaissance', Florence. Delve into the rich Medici heritage of this beautiful medieval city with your Local Specialist. Visit the political hub of the city, Piazza della Signoria, with its impressive sculptures and stunning palazzi. View the imposing Duomo, crowned by Brunelleschi’s dome, and the Baptistery, renowned for its sculptured bronze doors.
Day 10: Across the Alps to Lucerne
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Astoria
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Drive via the scenic Italian Lakes District, across the Alps into beautiful Switzerland, where we'll spend the next two nights in the medieval lakeside city of Lucerne. View the mournful, mortally wounded lion hewn from rock to commemorate the Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending Louis XVI. Walk along the flower-lined 14th-century covered Chapel Bridge, crossing the river Reuss.
Day 11: Explore Lucerne
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Astoria
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning join an exciting Optional Experience to one of the surrounding peaks for breath taking views of the Swiss countryside. We have some time later to discover the best Swiss chocolates in town.
Day 12: On to Captivating Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Renaissance La Défense
Meals Included: Breakfast
Crossing the border into France this morning, we travel past the picturesque vineyards and country towns of Burgundy en route to the 'City of Light'. Spend some time this evening strolling along the Seine and grand boulevards in search of a cozy bistro for fine French cuisine or consider an Optional Experience to a colorful Parisian cabaret.
Day 13: Discover the Sights of Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Renaissance La Défense
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Join a Local Specialist today for a sightseeing tour of this romantic city. View the sophisticated Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, the 19th-century Arc de Triomphe, honoring those who fought for France, and Notre Dame Cathedral, then enjoy a stroll through the Latin Quarter. Our European Whirl is almost at its end, we spend the evening with fellow travelers and our Travel Director, enjoying dinner in a local bistro.
Day 14: Farewell Paris
Location: Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today bid adieu to your fellow travelers and Travel Director at the end of your memorable experience.
What's Included
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Expert Travel Director and Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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Porterage and Gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.
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Hotel Tips and Taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are included.
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Sightseeing and Extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are included.
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Audio Headsets
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing are included.
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Luxury Coach
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys) is included.
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Eurostar Train
Eurostar high-speed train from London to Brussels and from Paris to London is included.
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Trafalgar Local Host
The services of a Trafalgar Local Host in London are included when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended hotel.
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Optional Experiences and Free Time
Optional experiences and free time are included.
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Transport Description
Travel in style with luxury air-conditioned coaches, Eurostar high-speed trains from London to Brussels and Paris to London, and private launches in Venice, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.
What's Not Included
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Airfare
International airfare to/from the start/end of your trip is not included.
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Visas
Visas as required are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences and free time are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with luxury air-conditioned coaches, Eurostar high-speed trains from London to Brussels and Paris to London, and private launches in Venice, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted, including Park Plaza Riverbank in London, Mercure City in Amsterdam, and Renaissance La Défense in Paris, ensuring comfort and quality throughout your journey.
Dining Summary
- 13 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Iconic Experience
- Amsterdam: Led by your Travel Director, wander the city to see the floating flower market, Dam Square and the Royal Palace.
- Rhineland: Cruise beneath the semi-ruined castles and terraced vineyards. Sleepy villages slip by as you saunter upstream to the Lorelei Rock where the enchantress lured sailors to their doom.
- Heidelberg: Explore one of Germany's most enchanting cities during an orientation with your Travel Director.
- Munich: During your orientation of the city with your Travel Director, see Feldherrnhalle in the Odeonsplatz, the Palace of the Dukes of Wittelsbach, the English Garden, the Hofbräuhaus, St. Peter's Church and the famous Marienplatz.
- Innsbruck: Nestled amidst majestic mountains, Innsbruck is a beautiful city offering a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. Stroll the streets of the picturesque Old Town and learn about its history with your Travel Director.
- : See St. Peter's Basilica located within the Vatican City.
- Tuscany: View the stunning landscape of Tuscany on your drive today.
- Florence: Join a Local Specialist to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square.
- Switzerland: Marvel at the Alpine landscape as you drive past breathtakingly beautiful mountains and valleys.
- Lucerne: During an orientation with your Travel Director, see the Lion Monument, Old Town Hall and Chapel Bridge, the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe.
- Paris: Join a Local Specialist to discover the hidden squares and secret lanes of Paris.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the European Whirl End Paris tour?
The tour includes a visit to a glassblowing factory in Venice, where you can witness the ancient craft of Venetian glassblowing. Additionally, there is a 'Be My Guest' experience in Florence, where you will enjoy a traditional meal with the Landi family at their home set within a garden of oak trees against the backdrop of Tuscan vineyards and olive groves. ...more ...less
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes travel in luxury air-conditioned coaches, Eurostar high-speed trains from London to Brussels and from Paris to London, and private launches in Venice, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.
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Are there any scenic cruises included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a scenic cruise along the canals of Amsterdam, the Rhine River, and by private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice.
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What is the 'Make Travel Matter' experience in Venice?
In Venice, the 'Make Travel Matter' experience involves discovering the ancient skill of Venetian glassblowing. This visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
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What meals are included in the European Whirl End Paris tour?
The tour includes 13 breakfasts, 4 dinners, and 1 lunch.
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
Accommodation is provided in cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted, including Park Plaza Riverbank in London, Mercure City in Amsterdam, and Renaissance La Défense in Paris, ensuring comfort and quality throughout your journey.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Jan 01, 2027 - Jan 14, 2027Monday - Sunday
Jan 11, 2027 - Jan 24, 2027Monday - Sunday
Jan 25, 2027 - Feb 07, 2027Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar 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 trafalgar 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 Whirl End Paris
14 Days Starting in London, United Kingdom and ending in Paris, France
Visiting: London, Brussels, Amsterdam, Boppard, St. Goar, Heidelberg, Munich, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Vatican City, Florence, Lucerne, Paris ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
WWWHZN19
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Special diets catered:
Please advise request