Day : 1
Arrive London (2 Nights)
Number of Days : 1
Welcome to London – a heady mix of old and new, from the palaces, parks and cathedrals of yesteryear to the trendy city streets of Soho and Shoreditch. After checking into your hotel, spend the rest of your day embracing the energy of this cosmopolitan capital, meandering down the lush tree-lined Mall from Nelson's Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, admiring the bright lights of Piccadilly and exploring art, antiquities and cultural treasures in the city's magnificent museums.
Day : 2
London Sightseeing and Free Time
Number of Days : 1
Today we join a Local Specialist to explore the iconic symbols of London on a guided sightseeing tour of this vibrant city. See Big Ben, the "prince of timekeepers", the imposing Houses of Parliament and the home of Britain's royal family, Buckingham Palace. Our sightseeing tour concludes in central London from where you'll have an opportunity to spend the rest of the day discovering the city on your terms. Board the London Eye for a bird's-eye view of the capital, explore centuries of bloody British history at the Tower of London or meander through Hyde Park amidst the sweet smell of blooms and manicured green lawns, stopping in at Speaker's Corner to see the power of free speech in action.
Day : 3
London - Amsterdam
Number of Days : 1
Meet your Travel Director this morning before leaving London. See the White Cliffs of Dover as you board your ferry to Calais. Travel through Belgium and later arrive in Amsterdam. Enjoy an orientation of the historic city centre followed by a Welcome Reception on a scenic canal cruise including a light dinner and welcome drinks.
Day : 4
Amsterdam – Rhine Cruise – Heidelberg – Rhineland
Number of Days : 1
This morning depart Amsterdam for Germany’s Rhine Valley and embark on a memorable cruise meandering past terraced vineyards, historic towns and medieval castles to St. Goar. We pass the legendary Lorelei Rock, named after a mermaid who lured fishermen to their deaths with her mesmerising song. Carry on to the university town of Heidelberg, with its impressive Renaissance structures, Baroque Old Town and view of the ruined red sandstone castle that towers above the city. Finally we venture to our Rhineland hotel where we’ll spend our evening at leisure.
Day : 5
Rhineland – Schaffhausen – Lucerne (2 Nights)
Number of Days : 1
Delving into a world of legends and fairy-tales, we enter the enchanting Black Forest and stop for a Cultural Insight into the fine craft of cuckoo clock making, before visiting the dramatic Rhine Falls at Schaffhausen, the largest waterfall in Europe. We cross the Swiss border, admiring the exquisite alpine setting and arrive on the shores of Lake Lucerne where we will stay for the next two nights.
Day : 6
Lucerne Orientation
Number of Days : 1
Soak up the relaxed lakeside atmosphere amidst a stunning natural setting before exploring the city's fascinating heritage. Cross the solid wooden Chapel Bridge on your morning orientation, visit the solemn Lion Monument, commemorating the Massacre of the Swiss Guards in 1792 and spend your afternoon shopping in the old town for Swiss souvenirs and chocolates. Consider an Optional Experience ascending the surrounding mountains for panoramic alpine views, wander along the tranquil lake shore or meander around the city admiring the decorative signposts and ornate façades lining the city's quaint streets.
Day : 7
Lucerne – Burgundy Wine Region – Paris (2 Nights)
Number of Days : 1
See the changing landscape as you travel into France through Alsace and across the Maginot Line. Indulge in the mesmerising countryside of the Burgundy Wine Region, famous for its delicious Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grape varieties, before arriving in Paris. This evening is yours to explore the grand boulevards of the French capital. See the pageantry of Paris and opt for an Optional Experience to enjoy the colourful sights and sounds of a famous Parisian Cabaret.
Day : 8
Paris Sightseeing
Number of Days : 1
Join a Local Specialist today to explore the artistic and historic treasures of Paris, including views of the elegant Champs Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe and magnificent Opera House, designed by Charles Garnier and opened in 1875. Ascend to the second level of the Eiffel Tower by elevator and view the City of Light in all its glory. This afternoon, meander through the stylish gardens, avenues and lanes of Paris admiring the sophisticated atmosphere or perhaps join an Optional Experience to the exquisite Palace of Versailles. This evening we celebrate an epic journey across Europe with our fellow travellers at a Farewell Be My Guest Dinner at a family run bistro.
Day : 9
Depart Paris
Number of Days : 1
Today it's time to say ‘au revoir’ to your fellow travelers and Travel Director. An airport transfer is available. Conditions apply.