Tour 16) Western European Highlights – From the Canals of Amsterdam to the Streets of Paris – 11 nights / 12 days
Arrival Amsterdam – Rhine Valley – Cologne – Heidelberg – Munich – Innsbruck – Venice – Rome – Florence – Lucerne – Departure Paris
Day 1 – Arrival in Amsterdam
Arrive in Amsterdam and enjoy an orientation tour of the city. Discover the charming canals, historic canal houses, Dam Square, the Royal Palace and the lively city center. Take in the unique atmosphere of the Dutch capital and enjoy some free time to explore independently. Overnight in Amsterdam.
Day 2 – Amsterdam – Boppard – St. Goar – Cologne – Heidelberg – Rhine Valley
Travel to Germany and arrive to Cologne for a short visit to its magnificent Gothic Cathedral and historic center. Then enjoy a scenic Rhine River cruise from Boppard to St. Goar, passing vineyards, castles and picturesque riverside villages. Afterwards, visit Heidelberg, famous for its romantic Old Town, castle and Neckar River setting, before continuing to the Rhine Valley. Overnight.
Day 3 – Rhine Valley – Munich – Innsbruck – Tyrolean Evening Folk Show
Continue to Munich, the Bavarian capital, for a city tour featuring Marienplatz, the New Town Hall, Frauenkirche and the historic center. Continue through the Bavarian and Tyrolean landscapes to Innsbruck. Visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens, an extraordinary world of sparkling art and installations. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Tyrolean Folk Show with the Gundolf family, accompanied by a delicious local dinner. Overnight in Innsbruck.
Day 4 – Innsbruck – Nordkette – Venice
Start with a stroll through Innsbruck's historic city center, admiring the Golden Roof, Imperial Palace and Maria-Theresien-Straße. Then ascend by cable car to the Nordkette, the spectacular “Top of Innsbruck,” for breathtaking Alpine views. Around lunchtime, depart for Venice, crossing the scenic Alpine landscapes and northern Italy. Enjoy your first evening in the enchanting lagoon city. Overnight in Venice.
Day 5 – Venice – Rome
Discover Venice during a guided city tour, including St. Mark's Square, St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace and the famous Grand Canal. Wander through the narrow streets and picturesque bridges while experiencing the unique atmosphere of this car-free city. In the afternoon, depart for Rome, Italy's historic capital, arriving in the evening. Overnight in Rome.
Day 6 – Rome
Enjoy a full-day city tour of Rome, exploring highlights such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Circus Maximus and Trevi Fountain. Continue to the historic center with the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, and discover the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica and Vatican City. Rome's fascinating combination of ancient monuments, Renaissance treasures and vibrant modern life makes it one of Europe's most captivating cities. Overnight in Rome.
Day 7 – Rome – Florence
Depart Rome and travel north through the beautiful Italian countryside to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. During an afternoon city tour, admire the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistery and Piazza della Signoria. See the famous Ponte Vecchio spanning the Arno River and enjoy the elegant streets and squares of the historic center. Overnight in Florence.
Day 8 – Florence – Lucerne
Travel north through the Italian and Swiss Alps toward Lucerne, one of Switzerland's most picturesque cities. Enjoy the dramatic scenery of mountain valleys, lakes and Alpine passes along the route. Upon arrival, take some time to discover Lucerne's charming waterfront and historic atmosphere. The famous Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument are among the city's most recognizable landmarks. Overnight in Lucerne.
Day 9 – Lucerne – Titlis excursion
Begin with a morning city tour of Lucerne, including the historic Old Town, Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument and beautiful Lake Lucerne waterfront. In the afternoon, enjoy an optional mountain excursion to Mount Titlis. Ascend into the high Alps for spectacular panoramic views, glaciers and snow-covered peaks, with the opportunity to experience the famous rotating cable car and impressive Alpine scenery. Overnight in Lucerne.
Day 10 – Lucerne – Paris
Depart Lucerne and continue through Switzerland and France toward Paris, the romantic French capital. Enjoy the changing landscapes along the route before arriving in the city. Depending on arrival time, take an evening stroll along the Seine or explore the lively streets and cafés around your hotel. Overnight in Paris.
Day 11 – Paris
Enjoy a full-day city tour of Paris, visiting highlights including the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde and the historic Île de la Cité. Admire Notre-Dame Cathedral and continue through the Latin Quarter and along the Seine. Experience the elegant boulevards and landmarks that have made Paris one of the world's most celebrated cities. Overnight in Paris.
Day 12 – Departure from Paris
After breakfast, enjoy some final free time in Paris, depending on your departure schedule. Perhaps take a last stroll along the Seine, browse the boutiques or enjoy a coffee at a traditional Parisian café before transferring to the airport or continuing your onward journey. Departure from Paris.