European Dream - End London, Classic Group

European Dream - End London, Classic Group

47 Views
11 Days From

$5808

European Dream - End London, Classic Group

11 Days Starting in Venice and ending in London

Visiting: Venice, Tuscany, Rome, Vatican, Umbria, Florence, Lucerne, Stanserhorn, Paris, London

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

N912UZN20

Specialist Group:

Family/Kids

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

20 - 30

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

5-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English
From: $5808

NB: Prices correct on 12-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Live the European dream on this 11-day guided tour. Luxuriate in Rome, explore the Vatican with fast track entry VIP access, take an exhilarating open top cable car up Lucerne's Mt. Stanserhorn in Switzerland and dine in opulence at La Coupole in Paris. Venturing out in Italy, you'll get a genuine taste of fresh local cuisine among the canals of Venice, with an exclusive dining experience at La Fenice restaurant. After your local Travel Director guides you through the stunning vineyard covered plains of Umbria, two all encompassing nights begin in Florence—breathing in an ambience of fine wine, cobbled streets and green marble cathedrals. Paris delivers at the finish with iconic sights, including the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, Place de la Concorde and the Champs Élysées.

Highlights

  • content:

    Choice Highlights

    • Choose between two carefully selected activities
    • Paris: We walk up and down the "quartier" and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theaters, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighborhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc's spectacular jardin vertical 'oasis d'Aboukir', the Napoleonic "Egyptian" district etc.
    • Paris: Join a local food lover on a walk through the streets of Paris. Visit a variety of patisseries, boulangeries and chocolatiers and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.

  • content:

    Top Rated Highlights

    • Venice: With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.
    • Rome: Discover the history, the construction and the legends of the iconic Colosseum as you stroll around the exterior of this amazing structure.
    • Florence: Join a Local Expert 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. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods.
    • Florence: See the historic neighborhood of the Santa Croce Basilica and witness local craftspersons at work during a gold and leatherwork demonstration.
    • Lucerne: See the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge.
    • Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit.
    • Paris: Experience the magic of Paris with Insight Vacations as you explore its iconic sights, landmarks, and charming streets. Meander along the picturesque banks of the River Seine, delving into the rich history of its beautiful bridges and renowned landmarks, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe. Whether from the comfort of your coach or a scenic vantage point, immerse yourself in the timeless stories that bring this enchanting city to life.

  • content:

    Make Travel Matter

    Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft.  This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

    Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit. 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. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 15: Affordable and Clean Energy & Life on Land.

  • content:

    Authentic Dining

    Venice: Join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a delicious Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. Sample traditional Venetian fare and soak up the ambiance of this charming city, and get to know each other before you embark on your journey together.

    Tuscany: Enjoy a tasting of locally made wines and sample delicious Tuscan snacks in the underground cellar of Machiavelli's home. While here you will visit the Italian gardens and be privy to a private opening of the office where he wrote 'The Prince.'

    Umbria: Explore the art of Italian cooking with Chef Lorenzo followed by a tasty lunch.

    Lucerne: Choose from a selection of restaurants on your Dine-Around Evening and hand-pick your preferred ambience, cuisine and drinks for an intimate culinary experience.

    Paris: Rendezvous with your newfound friends at La Coupole for a rousing dinner with wine.

  • content:

    Insight Choice

    Paris: We walk up and down the "quartier" and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theaters, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighborhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc's spectacular jardin vertical 'oasis d'Aboukir', the Napoleonic "Egyptian" district etc.

    Paris: Join a local food lover on a walk through the streets of Paris. Visit a variety of patisseries, boulangeries and chocolatiers and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Venice

Location: Venice

Accommodation: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice.

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice

Welcome to the Queen of the Adriatic, known for its unique waterscapes and rich cultural heritage. Transfers depart from Venice Airport and journey to the hotel by water taxi. What better way to start your dream holiday than in true Venetian style? Join your Travel Director for a dinner at a local restaurant. Savor a cocktail at twilight whilst being serenaded by an ensemble of talented musicians, and admire the tranquillity of St. Mark's Square long after the day-trippers have gone to their mainland hotels. Return to your canal-side hotel in the quiet, peaceful authentic neighborhood.

Day 2: The Magic Of 'La Serenissima' Relaxed Start

Location: Venice

Accommodation: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice.

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, prepare to embrace this most romantic city. Visit St. Mark's Square, dominated by its magnificent basilica and overlooked by the great Clock Tower. Also in the square stands the immense Campanile and Doge's Palace which is 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 free. 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 3: Villa Machiavelli And Rome

Location: Venice, Tuscany, Rome

Accommodation: Room 007 Select, Rome.

Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, 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 between December 24, 2024, and December 31, 2025. 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. Meet your local host for a guided tour through the house of the Italian Renaissance diplomat and writer, Nicolo Machiavelli, with an included special opening of his private office where he wrote 'The Prince'. Visit the Italian garden with views of  Florence and the historic cellar, which has a secret underground tunnel connecting the cellars to the oldest restaurant in Italy. Savor a tasting of wines made from the vineyards surrounding the home, accompanied by delicious samples of local Tuscan fare. Your journey continues as you follow the course of the Tiber to the Eternal City of Rome. Enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes. Gaze in awe at the well preserved Byzantine mosaics, illuminated for this evening's experience, and see the first sculpture by Bernini.

Day 4: Papal And Imperial Rome

Location: Rome, Vatican, Rome

Accommodation: Room 007 Select, Rome.

Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

With your Local Expert, visit the Vatican Museums. Insight provides fast-track entry to avoid the crowds and admire the Papal art collection. Inside the Sistine Chapel, admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling. Leave Vatican City to cross the Tiber and stand outside the Colosseum, imagining yourself back in the days of the gladiators. The afternoon is at leisure.

Day 5: Umbria And Onto Florence Relaxed Start

Location: Rome, Umbria, Florence

Accommodation: Hotel Adler Cavalieri, Florence.

Accommodation Name: Villa Neroli, Florence

Meals Included: Breakfast

Meet chef Lorenzo at his family farm in Umbria. Explore the art of Italian cooking during an entertaining pasta demonstration and delicious Lunch accompanied by Orvieto Classico wine. Continue on to your hotel in Florence.

Day 6: Renaissance Florence

Location: Florence

Accommodation: Hotel Adler Cavalieri, Florence.

Accommodation Name: Villa Neroli, Florence

Meals Included: Breakfast

With your Local Expert, view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. You also visit the open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces in Piazza della Signoria and see the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the Renaissance capital. Perhaps take the opportunity to visit the Tuscan town of Pisa and see the Leaning Tower.

Day 7: Across The Alps To Lucerne

Location: Florence, Lucerne

Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.

Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast

Head north towards 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, before traveling alongside towering mountains and past rushing torrents, down to scenic Lake Lucerne. In Lucerne, see the town's proud Lion Monument, carved into a limestone cliff and dedicated to the heroic Swiss Guards who died defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Then, take some time to stroll across the covered Chapel Bridge and see the baroque Jesuit Church.

Day 8: Lucerne And Mt. Stanserhorn

Location: Lucerne, Stanserhorn, Lucerne

Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.

Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-top cable car powered by solar panels take you up the summit. Breathe 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. With the day free, there is plenty of time for shopping for delectable chocolate in the traffic-free Old Town. Perhaps venture into the countryside for a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride and meet the local farmers? At night, you are offered a fine selection of restaurants to choose from for your Dine-Around Evening.

Day 9: Sights And Delights Of Paris

Location: Lucerne, Paris

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, 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 10: The Food And Flavors Of Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, 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 food lover to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. In the evening, indulge in refined French cuisine during your dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole, frequently visited by the French entertainer Josephine Baker.

Day 11: Au Revoir Paris

Location: Paris, London

Accommodation Name: on

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, bid farewell to your traveling companions as your journey comes to an end. Travel by high-speed Eurostar train for your journey back to London. On arrival, you are transferred to the Insight London hotel where your trip ends.

What's Included

  • Authentic Dining

    Venice: Enjoy a special Venetian Welcome Dinner with wine at Principessa, situated in the heart of this historic city. Tuscany: Enjoy a tasting of locally made wines and sample delicious Tuscan snacks in the underground cellar of Machiavelli's home. Umbria: Explore the art of Italian cooking with Chef Lorenzo followed by a tasty lunch. Lucerne: Choose from a selection of restaurants on your Dine-Around Evening. Paris: Indulge in refined French cuisine during your Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole.

  • Insight Experiences

    Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise.

  • Top Rated Highlights

    Rome: With your Local Expert, visit the Vatican Museums and admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. Paris: Explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris, including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre.

  • Make Travel Matter

    Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing at a traditional arts center. Mount Stanserhorn: Walk along beautiful scenic pathways and hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

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

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Some Meals

    Not all meals are covered in the tour package.

    Please refer to the itinerary for included meals.

  • Personal Expenses

    Expenses of a personal nature such as souvenirs, laundry, and drinks not specified in the itinerary are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Costs for optional activities not included in the tour itinerary are not covered.

Mode of Transport

Travel by high-speed Eurostar train for your journey back to London. On arrival, you are transferred to the Park Plaza Victoria where your trip ends.

Accommodation

Stay at the Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio in Venice, Room 007 Select in Rome, Hotel Adler Cavalieri in Florence, and Hotel Astoria in Lucerne. The tour ends with a stay at Le Méridien Etoile in Paris.

Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 10 Breakfast (B)
  • 2 Lunch with Wine (LW)

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

  • Tuscany: Meet your Local Expert for a guided visit through the house of the Italian Renaissance diplomat and writer, Niccolo Machiavelli, with a special opening of his private office where he wrote 'The Prince.'
  • 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.

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.

Check out our Q&As

  • What countries will I visit on the European Dream tour?

    On the European Dream tour, you will visit Italy, Switzerland, France, England, and the United Kingdom.

  • What are some highlights of the tour?

    Some highlights of the tour include a special Venetian Welcome Dinner in Venice, witnessing the ancient skill of glassblowing, a guided visit through the house of Niccolo Machiavelli in Tuscany, exploring the art of Italian cooking with Chef Lorenzo, and enjoying spectacular views from the summit of Mount Stanserhorn.

  • What kind of accommodations can I expect?

    You can expect to stay at the Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio in Venice, Room 007 Select in Rome, Hotel Adler Cavalieri in Florence, and Hotel Astoria in Lucerne. The tour ends with a stay at Le Méridien Etoile in Paris.

  • What is the transport description for the tour?

    Travel by high-speed Eurostar train for your journey back to London. On arrival, you are transferred to the Park Plaza Victoria where your trip ends.

  • 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

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Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily is a delightful trip and our travel guides and driver, Enzo, Chris and Greg were amazing and made the trip very memorable. We saw so many places and had great experiences along the way! Thanks to them for such a wonderful vacation.!

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Great itinerary, good pace, tour director was friendly and very knowledgeable and organised. Bus was very spacious and driver was great. Yes would recommend insight to friends and families

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The trip was fantastic. Everything was well planned and exceeded my expectations. All insight personal were courteous helpful and professional Ann Manual and Kevin were a topnotch team There was attention to every detail and at all times felt safe and always a personal touch to the trip. The motor coach was clean and roomy and there was multiple wipe downs during the day All hotels were top notch and all staff at the hotels and restaurants were helpful and courteous I would recommend this trip as it gave you a fantastic view of the natural wonders of the the West.

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Book 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.