Great European

Great European

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Great European

27 Days Starting in London, United Kingdom and ending in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Visiting: London, Paris, Bordeaux, Biarritz, Madrid, Barcelona, French Riviera, Monaco, Florence, Rome, Venice, Vienna, Prague, Munich, Vaduz, Lucerne, Rhineland, Amsterdam

Tour operator:

Trafalgar

Tour code:

EGREN126

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Embark on the Great European tour, a captivating journey through the heart of Europe, exploring the vibrant cultures and iconic landmarks of the United Kingdom, Spain, and Holland. Begin your adventure in London, where you can wander along the Thames and explore the city's rich history. Travel in style aboard a luxury air-conditioned coach and the Eurostar high-speed train, visiting cherry-picked hotels in cities like Paris, Florence, and Amsterdam. Discover the artistic treasures of the Prado Museum in Madrid, the architectural wonders of Gaudí in Barcelona, and the ancient sites of Rome and the Vatican City. Enjoy a traditional Be My Guest lunch with the Landi family near Florence and witness the centuries-old tradition of Venetian glassmaking. With must-see sightseeing, surprise extras, and optional experiences, this tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and leisure, ensuring an unforgettable European adventure.

Highlights

  • Discover the vibrant cities of Bordeaux, Biarritz, Pamplona, and the French Riviera.

  • Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid and the Fragonard Perfumery in Grasse.

  • View iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Leaning Tower in Pisa.

  • Experience a scenic cruise along the Rhine River and through Amsterdam's canals.

  • Explore the ancient sites of Rome and the Vatican City.

  • Enjoy a traditional Be My Guest lunch with the Landi family near Florence.

  • Witness the centuries-old tradition of Venetian glassmaking in Venice.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome To London

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Location: London

Accommodation Name: The Tower

A warm welcome to London. The sights and sounds of a city that embraces old and new are yours to explore today. Wander along the Thames, see the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus or relax in one of the Royal Parks.

Day 2: Discover The Sights Of London

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Location: London

Accommodation Name: The Tower

Meals Included: Breakfast

Join a Local Specialist today to see the city's iconic sights. Spend the rest of the day at leisure shopping on Carnaby Street, exploring centuries of royal heritage at the Tower of London or visiting one of the city's captivating museums.

Day 3: Explore Paris’S Sights

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Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Evergreen Laurel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Join a Local Specialist for a drive along the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe and view the Eiffel Tower. View Notre Dame Cathedral and enjoy a stroll through the Latin Quarter. Perhaps take in the views from the top of Montparnasse, stroll along the Seine admiring the exquisite work of street artists or consider attending one of the city's famous colorful cabaret shows.

Day 4: Journey To Bordeaux

Location: Bordeaux

Accommodation Name: FirstName Bordeaux

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey through France's Loire Valley, stopping near Château de Villandry for a Be My Guest Experience. Continue south through one of France's most renowned wine regions, arriving in Bordeaux, celebrated for its centuries-old trading heritage and extraordinary architecture. Spend the evening exploring its historical center or amble along the Garonne and watch how the 18th-century Place de la Bourse glitters across the river at night.

Day 5: Admire Elegant Biarritz And On To Pamplona Connect With Locals

Location: Biarritz

Accommodation Name: Tres Reyes Pamplona

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we delve into the heady days of La Belle Époque in the glitzy seaside resort of Biarritz, an elegant retreat for aristocrats for centuries. We continue to Pamplona, most famous for its annual Running of the Bulls Festival. Here you can choose to join an Optional walking tour with our Local Expert, tracing the steps of the 'running of the Bulls' and then savoring some Spanish Tapas and Sangria.

Day 6: Onwards To Madrid Dive Into Culture

Location: Madrid

Accommodation Name: Meliá Castilla

Meals Included: Breakfast

Head to the heart of Spain and its lofty capital, Madrid. Dive Into Culture and enjoy an included visit to the Prado Museum and admire the works of Rubens, Goya and El Greco. This afternoon join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour of the city's iconic landmarks. View the Royal Palace and the Cibeles Fountain.

Day 7: Discover Magical Madrid

Location: Madrid

Accommodation Name: Meliá Castilla

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, perhaps take to the waters of Retiro Park, visit the Mercado de San Miguel to indulge in the delicious flavors of Spain, or join an Optional Experience to the imperial city of Toledo. Enjoy free time this afternoon in the city that King Charles III sought to 'beautify' so that it could justifiably claim its place as one of Europe's most gracious capitals. Join your fellow travelers for dinner this evening.

Day 8: Off To Barcelona

Location: Barcelona

Accommodation Name: INNSiDE Barcelona Apolo by Melia

Meals Included: Breakfast

Driving towards Catalonia and the shores of the Mediterranean, we pass Guadalajara and the Gorges of Jalón and Aragón en route to vibrant Barcelona, where we will spend the next two nights delving into the intoxicating charm of this cultural and artistic powerhouse.

Day 9: Uncover Colorful Barcelona

Location: Barcelona

Accommodation Name: INNSiDE Barcelona Apolo by Melia

Meals Included: Breakfast

Join a Local Specialist today and delight in the whimsical world of Gaudí, whose characteristic Art Nouveau architecture is dotted throughout the city. See his unfinished masterpiece La Sagrada Familia, before spending the rest of the day embracing the energy of Barcelona. Pay tribute to Columbus and his brave exploration of the New World, wander down to La Barceloneta for some tasty tapas treats, or ramble up Las Ramblas watching street performers entertain crowds. This evening, you could choose to witness Spanish passion, power and drama unfold at an unforgettable foot-stomping flamenco evening including a delicious Spanish buffet.

Day 10: Journey Along The French Riviera Dive Into Culture

Location: French Riviera

Accommodation Name: Indigo Cagnes-sur-Mer

Meals Included: Breakfast

From the rugged Costa Brava to the stylish shores of the French Riviera, we travel through the South of France, stopping to Dive Into Culture during a guided visit to Fragonard Perfumery where we’ll learn how fragrances are crafted. Later, we arrive in the glamorous French Riviera, home to the famous Cannes Film Festival.

Day 11: Enjoy French Riviera Your Way

Location: French Riviera

Accommodation Name: Indigo Cagnes-sur-Mer

Meals Included: Breakfast

Tread in the footsteps of showbiz royalty, savoring a full day at leisure in the French Riviera. Admire the irresistible backdrop of the Mediterranean and Estérel Hills or consider joining an Optional Experience to the medieval hilltop town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, renowned for its museums and galleries.

Day 12: Explore Monaco And Pisa On The Way To Florence

Location: Monaco

Accommodation Name: Grand Mediterraneo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel along the sophisticated Cote d'Azur to the Principality of Monaco, where you'll see the Royal Palace and the cathedral where Princess Grace is buried. Cross into Italy and pass Genoa, the birthplace of Columbus, before arriving in Pisa to admire its Leaning Tower and Baptistery, the largest in Italy. This evening we arrive in the Renaissance city of Florence.

Day 13: Discover Florence

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Location: Florence

Accommodation Name: Grand Mediterraneo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Join a Local Specialist for a guided walking tour of one of the cultural capitals of the world. Enjoy views of the marble Duomo, the Baptistery with its famous bronze doors, and the Ponte Vecchio bridge. Visit Piazza della Signoria, once the political hub of the city, and in your free time perhaps join an Optional Experience to the Tuscan hilltop town of San Gimignano, known as Italy’s Medieval Manhattan. You’ll have the rest of the afternoon to explore Florence your way, but you’ll be tempted to head up to Piazzale Michelangelo for the best views of the cityscape as the sun begins to set over magical Florence

Day 14: All Roads Lead To Rome

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Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: Barceló Aran Mantegna

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Italy’s ‘Eternal City’ beckons and we head south to Rome stopping in Passignano Sul Trasimeno to admire its beautifully preserved center tucked within a circuit of medieval walls. Arriving in Rome you’ll have an evening to enjoy a Regional Dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 15: Uncover Ancient Rome And The Vatican City

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Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: Barceló Aran Mantegna

Meals Included: Breakfast

Join a Local Specialist to see the center of Christianity - the Vatican City, then cross the Tiber River for views of the mighty Colosseum and Circus Maximus, once home to exhilarating chariot races. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city's history and culture that span almost two millennia. Admire the Spanish Steps, shop up a storm on the Via del Corso or toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain to secure your speedy return to Rome. After an afternoon of sightseeing on your terms, complement your day with an optional experience this evening.

Day 16: Cruise The Canals Of Venice Make Travel Matter

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Location: Venice

Accommodation Name: Le Boulevard Lido

Meals Included: Breakfast

Witness the centuries-old tradition of Venetian glassmaking during your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at one of the city’s last remaining studios. You’ll watch spellbound as the master craftsmen shape the molten glass the same way their forefathers once did to create the delicate works of art that adorn homes all over the world. Inspired by the talent and skill of these glassblowers, you’ll want to buy a souvenir to remind you of this very special experience. Next, take to the water and cruise by private launch to the gateway of Venice, St. Mark's Square. Join your Travel Director to see the iconic and unexpected highlights of the city - the ornate Doge's Palace and Bridge of Sighs, St. Mark's Basilica and the Campanile with its five bells. Cross the Rialto bridge, enjoy a sunset over the Grand Canal or ascend the Campanile for panoramic views.

Day 17: On The Road To Vienna

Location: Vienna

Accommodation Name: Renaissance Wien

Meals Included: Breakfast

A scenic drive from Italy to Austria takes us through the Carnic Alps to the imperial capital of Vienna, where we'll spend the next two nights exploring a city famous for its musical heritage and elegance.

Day 18: Explore Vibrant Vienna

Location: Vienna

Accommodation Name: Renaissance Wien

Meals Included: Breakfast

Join your Local Specialist this morning to explore the sights, including views of the famous Opera House, Stadtpark, Parliament, Imperial Boulevards and Hofburg Palace, once home to the powerful Habsburg Dynasty. Spend the rest of the day delving into Vienna's cozy coffee culture, perhaps visit the exquisite Schönbrunn Palace or discover the harmonies of the world's music capital, enjoying one of the city's many musical performances.

Day 19: Journey To Prague

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Location: Prague

Accommodation Name: Vienna House by Wyndham Andel's Prague

Meals Included: Breakfast

Leave the song of Vienna behind, bound for Prague, the Golden City of a Hundred Spires. Traversing the lush landscapes of Slovakia, we arrive in the capital, Bratislava, with its eclectic Gothic, Baroque and Art Deco architecture. There’s time for an orientation with your Travel Director and lunch, perhaps an opportunity to sample the local bryndzové halušky potato dumplings. Arriving in Prague this afternoon, you’ll want to get right into the heart of this fairy-tale city.

Day 20: Discover Prague’S Sights

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Location: Prague

Accommodation Name: Vienna House by Wyndham Andel's Prague

Meals Included: Breakfast

Join your Local Specialist this morning to explore the jewels of Prague’s Castle District and Old Town. You’ll stroll around the Old Town Square and see the 15th-century Astronomical Clock with its mesmerizing Walk of the Apostles. Spend your afternoon exploring Prague your way, tracking down the city’s quirky side, from its famous wall of peace to one of the world’s narrowest streets at just 50cm wide. Don’t forget to stop and sample a steaming street food favorite, Trdelník.

Day 21: Off To Munich

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Location: Munich

Accommodation Name: Leonardo City Olympiapark

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

You may be tempted to stay in this enchanting city, but Munich promises its own adventures. First stop today however is the UNESCO-listed town of Regensburg with its beautifully preserved medieval center. Spend some time getting lost in centuries of history, perhaps sampling some of the local Regensburger Wurst. Then it’s time to continue to the Bavarian capital of Munich, where we'll see the Glockenspiel and Marienplatz on an orientation with our Travel Director. The afternoon is free to explore before we have dinner at our hotel.

Day 22: Uncover Liechtenstein And Lucerne

Location: Vaduz

Accommodation Name: Grand Europe

Meals Included: Breakfast

We leave Germany for Switzerland, stopping in Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein. We continue to Lucerne, our home for the next two nights.

Day 23: Uncover Lucerne’S Treasures

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Location: Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Grand Europe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Pay tribute to the brave Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending King Louis XVI in the French Revolution and see the famous mournful Lion Monument. Walk along the wooden Chapel Bridge and marvel at its decorative ceilings. Then spend the rest of the day admiring the colorful façades of the Old Town or join an Optional Experience to one of the surrounding peaks.

Day 24: Enjoy A Scenic Cruise In The Rhineland

Location: Rhineland

Accommodation Name: Diehls Hotel Koblenz

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

View the ruins of Heidelberg Castle perched above the Neckar River and board a relaxing cruise down the mighty Rhine from St. Goar to Boppard – fantasy castles and hillside vineyards line your scenic journey.

Day 25: Onwards To Cologne And Amsterdam

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Location: Amsterdam

Accommodation Name: Leonardo Royal

Meals Included: Breakfast

Admire the tall twin Gothic spires of the Cologne Cathedral this morning, before crossing into the Netherlands and on to Amsterdam where we spend the next two nights. Sit under the leafy canopy at Leidseplein indulging in Dutch beer and kroketten, hire a bike and hit the city’s tree-lined streets or bask in the warm glow and gezelligheid of one of the city's renowned bruin cafés.

Day 26: Explore Amsterdam

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Location: Amsterdam

Accommodation Name: Leonardo Royal

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy an orientation of Amsterdam and spend the rest of the day exploring the city on foot, by bike or tram. Consider delving into the tragic story of Anne Frank, admire the works of Van Gogh or people-watch in Vondelpark. This evening enjoy dinner with your travel companions on board a glass-top boat. Cruise through the city's canals looking up at the centuries-old gabled façades for which Amsterdam is so famous.

Day 27: Farewell Amsterdam

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Location: Amsterdam

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, it’s time to say a fond farewell to your fellow travelers and Travel Director as you return home with wonderful memories.

What's Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

    The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver.

  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

    Accommodation is provided in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted.

  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities

    All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour package.

  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

    The tour covers all hotel tips, charges, and local taxes.

  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

    Daily breakfast and up to half of your evening meals are included.

  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

    The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.

  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

    Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.

  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

    Travel is provided in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.

  • Optional Experiences and free time

    The tour offers optional experiences and free time for personal exploration.

  • London: The services of a Trafalgar Local Host when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel

    In London, the services of a Trafalgar Local Host are available when staying at Trafalgar's recommended hotel.

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What's Not Included

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Optional excursions

    Optional excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights to and from the tour start and end points are not included.

  • Visa fees

    Visa fees and any related travel documentation costs are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with a luxury air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, and enjoy scenic rail journeys, including the Eurostar high-speed train from London to Paris.

Accommodation

Stay in cherry-picked hotels throughout your journey, including The Tower in London, Evergreen Laurel in Paris, and Grand Mediterraneo in Florence, ensuring comfort and convenience at every stop.

Dining Summary

  • 27 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
  • 6 Dinner (D)
  • 1 Lunch (L)

Dive Into Culture

  • Madrid: Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid, where you'll have time to admire its extraordinary collection of European art dating from the 12th to early 20th centuries.
  • Provence: The scents of France are yours to enjoy at Fragonard, a famous French perfumery that has been creating perfumes since the 1920s.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is used during the Great European tour?

    The tour includes travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as scenic rail journeys, including the Eurostar high-speed train from London to Paris.

  • Are meals included in the Great European tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes daily breakfast and up to half of your evening meals. Additionally, there is a Be My Guest lunch with the Landi family near Florence.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on the Great European tour?

    Accommodation is provided in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted, such as The Tower in London, Evergreen Laurel in Paris, and Grand Mediterraneo in Florence.

  • Is there a local guide available during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver, as well as Local Specialists in various cities for guided tours.

  • Are there any cultural experiences included in the Great European tour?

    Yes, the tour includes cultural experiences such as visiting the Prado Museum in Madrid and the Fragonard Perfumery in Grasse, as well as witnessing Venetian glassmaking in Venice.

  • What is the policy on gratuities during the tour?

    All porterage and restaurant gratuities, as well as hotel tips, charges, and local taxes, are included in the tour package.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, the tour offers optional experiences and free time for personal exploration in various locations.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1947

  • 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.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Renato Arrieta  

Best tour I joined so far

14-Jan-2023

My first time with Trafalgar and I see no reason why I should not join them again.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
King Ng, Lafayette, California  

Very well planned trip with timely breaks during the coach ride..

08-Nov-2021

It was a well organized tour group and we hit lots of interesting and beautiful scenes. Like our previous trips with Trafalgar, tourists were treated with well manner and professional tour guide/director, making our trip very enjoyable and delightful!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Egypt

14-Jan-2023

We really did see the best of Egypt and beyond. Our tour guide, Mohammad, guided us through the rich history and the urban and rural life of such a unique and delightful country. We felt very safe and pampered.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Marshal Daguio  

Wonderful Best Of Turkey

06-Nov-2021

It was my first time with Trafalgar Tour and I had a wonderful trip from day 1 till the last day. The Tour Director, Yocel Atik is very knowledgeable and Excellent. The health director and coach driver are helpful and supportive as well. The hotels selected were comfortable especially Rixos Hotel and Movenpick Hotel. The Best of Turkey is better than I expected.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Barbara, Canada  

Irish Experience

09-Nov-2021

I am single and travel alone. I always feel secure and well-looked after when I travel with Trafalgar

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Trafalgar allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform trafalgar, 90 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP 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 trafalgar charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.