Albania , Austria , Croatia , England , France , Germany , Greece , Italy , Montenegro , Netherlands , Slovenia , Switzerland , Turkey

Albania , Austria , Croatia , England , France , Germany , Greece , Italy , Montenegro , Netherlands , Slovenia , Switzerland , Turkey
35 Days / 36 Nights Starting From Euro 10,914



Cities Visited
Amsterdam, Athens, Capri, Cote d'Azur, Crete, Dubrovnik, Florence, Heidelberg, Innsbruck, Ioannina, Kotor, Kusadasi, Ljubljana, London, Lucerne, Monaco, Mykonos, Nice, Paris, Patmos, Pisa, Plitvice Lakes, Pompeii, Rhine Valley, Rome, Salzburg, Santorini, Sorrento, Split, Tirana, Tuscany, Tyrol, Venice, Vienna, Zagreb

Tour Itinerary

Journey through Europe's diverse cultures, scenery and historic sights to Greece, the cradle of Western civilisation. After relaxing beside the azure waters of the Aegean, return via Italy's most famous cities to the glistening French capital.

Day 1 - Your Journey Begins
Board your overnight flight to England (please ask about our great deals).

Day 2 - Welcome to London!
Check in to your hotel, then there is time to relax.
Accommodation: Amba Hotel Marble Arch/Grosvenor Hotel

Day 3 - Discovering London
An included half day sightseeing tour of London's West End shows you all the major sights - Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace. Your Tour Director is also on hand today for help and advice.(Full Breakfast)
Accommodation: Amba Hotel Marble Arch/Grosvenor Hotel

Day 4 - Depart from London by Eurostar to Amsterdam
Meet your Tour Director and transfer to London's St. Pancras Station to board the high-speed Eurostar. Your comfortable two-hour rail journey takes you via the historic Channel Tunnel to Brussels. From here, it's a comfortable drive into the Netherlands. See the first of the windmills on the way to lively Amsterdam. Alternatively, join at the Amsterdam hotel. Later, meet your Tour Director for a Welcome Reception and an opportunity to mingle and get to know each other over a pleasant evening of dinner and wine.(WD)
Accommodation: Hotel Okura, Amsterdam

Day 5 - Amsterdam and the Dutch Countryside
(Relaxed Start) After your orientation of Amsterdam, drive through the pleasant Dutch countryside to the traditional fishing village of Volendam. This is followed by a photo-stop at one of the windmills and a visit to a cheese farm and '''Klompenhuis', where wooden clogs are made. Back in Amsterdam, round-off the day with a visit to a diamond cutting factory, whose industry dates back to the 16th century. With free time this afternoon, perhaps visit the Rijksmuseum or the Anne Frank House?(BB)
Accommodation: Hotel Okura, Amsterdam

Day 6 - Cruise past the Castles of the Rhine Valley and on to Heidelberg
Leave Amsterdam, en route for Germany. Cross the extensive Ruhr Basin and head for the Romantic Rhine Gorge. In the quaint wine village of Boppard, board your cruise past fortified towns and leafy vineyards. Pass the twin strongholds of the '''Enemy Brothers', the Cat and Mouse castles and hear the legend of the Loreley Rock. Rejoin the coach at St. Goar and continue to the university town of Heidelberg, dominated by its red sandstone castle.(BB)
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Heidelberg City Centre

Day 7 - Innsbruck, Mountain-ringed Capital of the Tyrol
Skirt the northern Black Forest and head for the rolling Bavarian Alps. Stop beneath the royal castles of Hohenschwangau and King Ludwig's fairytale Neuschwanstein. 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.(BB)
Accommodation: Hilton, Innsbruck

Day 8 - Salzburg, City of Music, then on to Vienna
Make your way to Salzburg and join a Local Expert in the Cathedral Square by the domed cathedral and splendid Residenz Fountain. Stroll through the Old Town's narrow lanes to see Mozart's birthplace on the Getreidegasse. Cross the river to the formal gardens of the Mirabell Palace and see the beautiful fountains and statues. Here, there is also a great chance to photograph the city skyline crowned by the castle heights. Later, drive along the Danube Valley, past the imposing Melk Abbey to the stately capital of Vienna.(BB)
Accommodation: Hilton Vienna

Day 9 - Vienna and the Habsburgs
In the morning, a Local Expert reveals the highlights of Sch''nbrunn Palace, full of frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers, mirrors and gilded ornaments. Spend some time in the formal gardens before going on to view St. Charles' Church, the Hofburg Palace, Parliament and State Opera House. The afternoon is all yours to explore the city at your leisure.(BB)
Accommodation: Hilton Vienna

Day 10 - A Scenic drive to Ljubljana
(Relaxed Start) Drive through Styria's forested mountains and over the Slovenian border to the 'beloved' city of Ljubljana. Sightsee with a Local Expert who reveals the Baroque elegance of the Slovenian capital. The medieval castle stands as ancient guardian, the City Hall and Cathedral of St. Nicholas testify to its historical importance.(BB / DW)
Accommodation: Hotel Lev, Ljubljana

Day 11 - Zagreb and Plitvice, with its crystal blue-green lakes
(Relaxed Start) Follow the Drava River to Croatia and its pretty capital of Zagreb. On an orientation tour, see the green squares and 19th century charm of the modern Lower Town. Move on to the Upper Town, a medieval treasure chest of churches, cathedrals, palaces and stone gates. Leave Zagreb and continue on to one of Europe's finest natural wonders.(BB / DW)
Accommodation: Jezero Hotel, Plitvice

Day 12 - The Dalmatian Coast
With a Local Expert, explore Plitvice Lakes National Park, a scenic wonderland of 16 inter-connecting lakes, flanked by thundering waterfalls and primeval forest. Visit Korana Canyon to see the 230 foot high falls and Tomicevo Pogledalo for panoramic views over the park. The landscape changes on the drive to the Dalmatian coast, as forests give way to rugged cliffs and turquoise coves. Visit Trogir, founded by the Greeks in 400BC. Admire the Romanesque cathedral and Renaissance Cipiko Palace before continuing to the port of Split.(BB)
Accommodation: President Solin, Split

Day 13 - Explore Split and on to the Adriatic Coast
Some 1,700 years ago, the Roman Emperor Diocletian built his palace here; with your Local Expert, explore the cobbled streets and buildings within the palace. Venture into the underground rooms thought to have housed his slaves. Drive along the sun-drenched coast, studded with rocky islands to your hotel.(BB / DW)
Accommodation: Hotel Croatia Cavtat, Dubrovnik

Day 14 - Dubrovnik, Pearl of the Adriatic
(Relaxed Start) A guided sightseeing tour in the Old Town explores the stone-paved streets inside the 16th century bastions. See Onofrio's Fountain, the Rector's Palace, the city walls, and the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries. The afternoon is at leisure ''' maybe take a sunset cruise in the evening?(BB)
Accommodation: Hotel Croatia Cavtat, Dubrovnik

Day 15 - Kotor and the Albanian Capital of Tirana
Just over the border, visit the old town of Kotor, perched beside the only European fjord outside of Norway. Continue through the spectacular scenery of Montenegro. Then cross into the mysterious, emerging country of Albania and stay in the warm hearted capital Tirana. With a Local Expert, see Skanderbeg square, the Palace of Culture and the National History Museum. Continue to the main boulevard to see the Prime Ministry building, President office, Pyramid Building and University.(BB / DW)
Accommodation: Sheraton Hotel, Tirana

Day 16 - Through the mountains of Greece to Ioannina
Travel through spectacular scenery to the northern mountainous region of Greece and stop for lunch in Albania at the historic Unesco city of Girokastra. Next, continue to the pretty resort of Ioannina.(BB / D)
Accommodation: Du Lac Hotel/Grand Serai, Ioannina

Day 17 - Athens, Cradle of Europe
Take a scenic drive to Kalambaka. While here, perhaps take an optional experience to the monasteries of Meteora, before continuing on to the ancient Greek capital of Athens.(BB)
Accommodation: Divani Caravel Hotel, Athens

Day 18 - The Glory of Athens
(Relaxed Start) Join a Local Expert in the morning for Athens sightseeing. Enjoy glory in abundance, from the Parthenon and Acropolis to the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of the Wingless Victory and Hadrian's Arch. The afternoon is at leisure to explore at your own pace.(BB)
Accommodation: Divani Caravel Hotel, Athens

Day 19 - Cruising to Mykonos
(Relaxed Start) Board your cruise ship and set sail for the lovely island of Mykonos with its dazzling sugar cube houses and whitewashed windmills. Tonight, the maze of walkways, welcoming tavernas and nightlife are yours to explore. Late in the evening, your cruise sails across the Aegean to Turkey. While cruising, enjoy an exquisite variety of Mediterranean dishes as well as flavours, aromas and spices from around the world. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are served on board daily. Your cruise includes complimentary soft-drinks, tea and coffee. Once on-board, your drinks package can be upgraded for an additional cost, to include alcohol if you wish.(BB)
Accommodation: MV Celestyal Olympia

Day 20 - Kusadasi and Patmos
Wake up to find you have docked at the Turkish port of Kusadasi where you visit the ancient ruins of Ephesus with a Local Expert. In the afternoon, sail to the island of Patmos where St. John the Devine was exiled by the Emperor Domitian. Later, your cruise sets sail for the island of Crete.(BB)
Accommodation: MV Celestyal Olympia

Day 21 - Crete and Santorini
(Relaxed Start) In the morning, you dock at Heraklion in Crete. Perhaps take an optional experience to the Palace of King Minos? Later, cruise beneath the sheer cliffs of Santorini. Explore the capital of Thira, with its clifftop restaurants and caf''s, breathtaking views and amazing sunsets. In the evening you sail onto Athens.(BB)
Accommodation: MV Celestyal Olympia

Day 22 - Fly to Italy and onto Sorrento
In the morning, transfer to the airport for the short flight to Italy. On arrival in Rome, drive to the beautiful clifftop resort of Sorrento. Savour the stunning views over the Gulf of Naples.(BB / DW)
Accommodation: Majestic Palace Hotel, Sorrento

Day 23 - Experience beautiful Capri, the Isle of Dreams
In the morning, cruise to the magical island of Capri. Weather permitting, ascend to Capri town by open-top taxi with a Local Expert. Browse in the exclusive boutiques before descending to the port by funicular railway. Back in Sorrento, visit the lively Piazza Tasso to watch the art of '''intarsio' wood inlaying. Afterwards, maybe explore the famous Amalfi Coast?(BB)
Accommodation: Majestic Palace Hotel, Sorrento

Day 24 - Ill-fated Pompeii and onto Rome
Drive to the Roman town of Pompeii, buried by an eruption of Vesuvius in 79AD. Your Local Expert will explain the plight of the ill-fated citizens as you walk through the cobbled streets. Then it's on to Rome.(BB)
Accommodation: Veneto Palace, Rome

Day 25 - Papal Rome
In the morning, enjoy an in-depth guided visit to the Vatican Museums, including fast-track VIP access, together with behind-the-scenes access to the Bramante Staircase, normally off-limits to the general public. Then enter the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling. Next door, tour St Peter's Basilica before crossing the Tiber to see the Colosseum.(BB)
Accommodation: Veneto Palace, Rome

Day 26 - Follow the Autostrada del Sole to Venice
Pass the hill-towns of Umbria, and on through peaceful Tuscan landscapes. Descend past Bologna into the fertile Valley of the River Po. Cross the river's flood plains and continue to the glorious city of Venice.(BB / DW)
Accommodation: Carlton on the Grand Canal, Venice

Day 27 - Venice and the Magic of ---La Serenissima---
Cruise down the canal to St. Mark's Square. See the Bridge of Sighs which connects the Doge's Palace to the prisons, the Bell Tower, beautiful mosaics of St. Mark's Basilica and the Clock Tower. During your stay, board a gondola for a serenade through the romantic canals accompanied by musicians and admire the skill of glassblowers at a traditional arts centre on the island of Giudecca. Enjoy free time in the afternoon.(BB)
Accommodation: Carlton on the Grand Canal, Venice

Day 28 - Through Tuscany to explore Renaissance Florence
Journey south into Tuscany and enjoy sweeping views over Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo before your sightseeing. Walk with a Local Expert to the cathedral and baptistery, where Ghiberti's '''Gates of Paradise' have been recreated in all their glory. Move on to Signoria Square, now an open air gallery of sculpture and enjoy time to gaze at statues such as Neptune and David. Then enjoy an insight into traditional leather work.(BB / DW)
Accommodation: Hotel Londra, Florence

Day 29 - Free Time in Florence
(Relaxed Start) This is a day completely at leisure in this remarkable city - the treasure-house of the Italian Renaissance.(BB)
Accommodation: Hotel Londra, Florence

Day 30 - Pisa, Monaco and on to Nice
Travel west towards the Mediterranean and stop at Pisa. With a Local Expert, see the famous Leaning Tower in the 'Meadow of Miracles', and the 11th century cathedral and baptistery. Cross into France and on to Monaco, ruled by the Genoese Grimaldi family since the 13th century. See the Royal Palace, the yacht-filled harbour and visit the cathedral, housing Princess Grace's tomb. Continue along one of the 'Corniche' roads to glamorous Nice, the fashionable French riviera resort. Unlock the secrets of the French perfume industry with a visit to a perfumery, where fragrance experts waft exclusive scents from stoppered bottles.(BB)
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel, Nice

Day 31 - Exploring the C--te d---Azur
(Relaxed Start) With the whole day in Nice at your leisure, perhaps consider a stroll along the fabled Promenade des Anglais, relax on the beach or maybe choose an optional experience to other parts of the Riviera?(BB)
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel, Nice

Day 32 - Up through the Alps to Lakeside Lucerne
Pass through the Italian Lake District en route to Switzerland. Stunning Alpine scenery will surround you on the way to Lucerne.(BB)
Accommodation: Astoria, Lucerne

Day 33 - Lucerne---s Lakes and Lion
Head to the town of Stans, to embark on a scenic journey by funicular railway and open-top cable car to the summit of Stanserhorn. Enjoy the clear air and stunning beautiful mountains views. Back in Lucerne, see the Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge before free time for shopping. Later, enjoy a selection of ambience and local cuisine offered on your Dine-Around evening.(BB / DA)
Accommodation: Astoria, Lucerne

Day 34 - Paris for a ---Diner de C--l--bration---
Drive to Basel before crossing the Rhine to enter France. Travel through the wine-growing Burgundy region to Paris, the vibrant '''Ville-Lumi''re' (City of Light). During your time in Paris, see the imposing fa''ades of the Louvre, the banks of the Seine with its many romantic bridges, the obelisk in the centre of the Place de la Concorde and drive along the Champs Elys''es to the Arc de Triomphe. Enjoy a '''Diner de C''l''bration' served with wine in a Parisian bistro, abundant with French ambience.(BB / CD)
Accommodation: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris

Day 35 - Paris, the ---City of Light---
Meet your Local Expert who will take you on a walking tour of the bohemian Latin Quarter. Explore the myriad of streets situated on the left bank of the Seine, before continuing to the Notre Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture. Insight ensures you leave the long queues at the Eiffel Tower behind - ascend by express elevator to the famous viewing platforms for breathtaking panoramas over the city. Then you are at leisure.(BB)
Accommodation: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris

Day 36 - Eurostar Return to London
Included coach transfer to Paris Gare du Nord station for your high speed Eurostar train journey to London. On arrival, you are transferred to the Amba Hotel Marble Arch where your trip ends.(BB)

INCLUSIONS

ADDITIONAL INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS

  • Amsterdam: See Dam Square, the Royal Palace and Mint Tower.
  • Innsbruck: Walk the narrow streets of the Old Town, lined with medieval houses and arcades, to see the Golden Roof and Imperial Palace.
  • Heidelberg: See the red sandstone castle and explore the baroque Old Town.
  • F''ssen: See the fairy-tale castle of Neuschwanstein.
  • Salzburg: Walk through the Mirabell Gardens with a guide, see Mozart's Birthplace and the Cathedral.
  • Vienna: Tour the Ring Road seeing the Hofburg, Opera House, Parliament building and St Charles' Church.
  • Ljubljana: A local expert reveals the medieval castle, City Hall, the Cathedral of St.Nicholas and the Triple Bridge.
  • Zagreb: See Roosevelt Square and Ban Josip Jelacic Square. Tour the Upper Town to view the Presidential Palace, Stone Gate, St Marks Church and the Lotr''''ak Tower.
  • Trogir: See the Cipiko Palace and Romanesque Cathedral.
  • Split: See St. Duje's, the baptistery and the Golden Gate on your guided tour through the labyrinthine streets.
  • Dubrovnik: See Onofrio's Fountain, Rector's Palace and city walls. Admire the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries.
  • Kotor: Visit the old town situated on its fjord.
  • Tirana: Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour.
  • Athens: See Hadrian's Arch and Temple of Zeus.
  • Sorrento: Watch the art of '''intarsio' wood inlaying.
  • Rome: Visit St Peters Basilica in the Vatican City. See the Colosseum and overlook the Forum.
  • Venice: Cruise, with commentary, to St. Mark's Square. See the Doges' Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.
  • Florence: View the Cathedral, '''Gates of Paradise' and Piazza Signoria. Traditional Florence leather-work demonstration.
  • Pisa: See the famous Leaning Tower.
  • Monaco: Drive on part of the Grand Prix circuit. See the Grimaldi Royal Palace. See the tomb of Princess Grace.
  • Lucerne: View the emotive Lion Monument. See the covered Chapel Bridge and Jesuit Church.
  • Paris: See Notre Dame Cathedral, the fa''ades of the Louvre Museum, the Place de la Concorde. Drive along the Champs Elys''es to the Arc de Triomphe.
  • Athens: See the Royal Palace, Agora, Hadrian'''s Arch & Temple of Zeus.
  • Ephesus: Your Local expert will guide you through one of the world's finest archeological sites.
  • Mediterranean Legends Cruising: Visit the Greek Islands of Mykonos, Patmos, Crete & Santorini. Call in at the Turkish port of Kusadasi.

AUTHENTIC REGIONAL FLAVOURS

  • Volendam: Visit a Cheese Farm with a Local Expert in the Dutch Countryside.
  • Lucerne: You are offered a selection of restaurants on your Dine-Around evening. Choose your own ambience, cuisine and drinks for an intimate culinary experience.
  • Paris: In the Latin Quarter, rendezvous with friends at a typical French bistro for a little wine and a Celebration Dinner. Bon App''tit!
  • 31 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 1 Dinner (D); 1 Welcome Dinner (WD), 7 three-course table d'h''te Dinner (DW), 1 Dine-Around evening (DA), and 1 Celebration Dinner (CD) all with wine, plus tea or coffee.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES

  • Eurostar: Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train from London, via the historic Channel Tunnel to Brussels.
  • Rhine Valley: Watch medieval hilltop castles, sleepy villages and vineyards slip by as you enjoy a scenic cruise.
  • Vienna: A private, guided exploration of Sch''nbrunn Palace is a feast for the senses - frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded Rococo frames.
  • Plitvice: A UNESCO World Heritage site, marvel at the water wonderland as you walk along stunning cascades.
  • Split: With a local historian, explore above and below ground within the walls of the Roman Emperor Diocletian's palace - now the heart of modern day Split.
  • Athens: Ascend the '''Sacred Rock', the Acropolis, to admire the Parthenon built in 5th century BC as well as the smaller Temple of Athena Nike and Caryatid Beauties.
  • Isle of Capri: Cruise to the famous isle to meet your Local Expert and in the style of the jet-set, ride up to town by open-top taxi.
  • Pompeii: Walk with a Local Expert through the cobbled streets of the town, frozen in time since the 1st century.
  • Rome: Be among the select few to gain VIP access into the Vatican Museums, see the Bramante Staircase and Michelangelo's ceiling in the Sistine Chapel.
  • Venice: With classic Italian love songs echoing through atmospheric canals, glide beneath elegant bridges during a traditional gondola serenade.
  • Pisa: See the famous leaning tower.
  • Stanserhorn: A spectacular journey by a funicular railway and open-top cable car to the summit of the Stanserhorn for expansive mountain views.
  • Paris: Venture with a Local Expert through the Latin Quarter and see the Notre Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture.
  • Paris: Ascend to the viewing platforms of the Eiffel Tower for glorious panoramas of the city.
  • Eurostar: Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train to London, via the historic Channel Tunnel from Paris.

STAY AT THE BEST ADDRESSES

  • Amsterdam: The bar on the 23rd floor of the luxurious Hotel Okura offers magnificent views.
  • Heidelberg: The Crowne Plaza is a few minutes' walk from the Neckar River, where you can cross medieval bridges to reach the centre of this Renaissance university city.
  • Ioannina: Situated next to the 'Lake of Legends', the Du Lac Hotel is a modern hotel offering excellent facilities.
  • Athens: The Divani Caravel is a luxury hotel situated in the heart of the Greek capital.
  • Venice: True to its name, the Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal couldn't be better located.

ADDITIONAL FIVE STAR SERVICES

  • 3 nights aboard your mid-size cruise ship featuring air-conditioned cabins with private facilities, outdoor pool, fitness centre, beauty salon, casino, bars & restaurants.
  • Cruises include all port taxes and crew gratuities.
  • Whilst cruising Breakfast (B), Lunch (L) and Dinner (D) are served daily.
  • All-inclusive soft-drinks package.
  • Shore excursion to Ephesus with a Local Expert.
  • Insight hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage.
  • Sightseeing by air-conditioned coach with on-board toilet.
  • Locally hosted in Athens.
  • Services of a Cruise Director while cruising.
  • Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours in Athens.
  • Arrival and departure transfers between the airports and your Insight tour hotels.

NOTES

Notes: Twin prices are per person. Seasonal adjustments and/or black out dates apply. 

Keukenhof Gardens will be available as an option on these departures. (06 Jul) Staying at alternative accommodation of similar standard in Split. Staying at alternative accommodation of similar standard in Amsterdam. The prices shown above include Port Taxes. For up to date pricing please visit our website. Vessels and/or ports of call may be re-scheduled at short notice. Insight Vacations does not use base category cabins, all cabins are outside. Roommate matching service is not available.''Book Your Air Early: To get the best land & air deal possible!