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Compare Ultimate River Cruise by AMA Waterways vs Romantic European - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Small Group by Insight Vacations

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Duration 20 days 19 days
Price From $ 7,218 $ 7,115
Price Per Day $ 361 $ 374
Highlights
  • See the fascinating Nuremberg
  • Discover Trier city tour
  • Explore Paris
  • Explore Mainz and visit Gutenberg Museum
  • Explore Kitzingen and enjoy Wine cellar visit & tasting
  • Visit Budapest City tour
  • Choose between two carefully selected activities
  • Prague: Stroll through the Jewish Quarter with your Local Expert to hear how the Jewish community has shaped the history of Prague, and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry.
  • Prague: Visit the imposing St Vitus Cathedral and explore the atmospheric courtyards of the historic Prague Castle with your Local Expert.
  • Choose between two carefully selected activities
  • Stanserhorn: Walk along beautiful scenic pathways at the summit of Mount Stanserhorn for a chance to see native animals like marmots.
  • Stanserhorn: Embark on a spectacular journey to the summit of Mount Stanserhorn and appreciate unrivalled views of snow-capped peaks. Meet a Swiss ranger and learn about the local wildlife and flora over a conservation talk. Learn about the conservation of the local ecosystem and local fauna from a Swiss ranger. Hear about what it takes to preserve the wildlife throughout the year and in all weather. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life On Land. Alternatively, walk along beautiful scenic pathways for a chance to see native animals like marmots.
  • Choose between two carefully selected activities
  • Paris: Shop in quaint boutiques like a true Parisian with your Local Expert.
  • Paris: Join an avid local foodie 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.
  • : Our Well-Being Directors take a proactive approach to your welfare ensuring all well-being regulations are met (available on tours with 21 or more guests).
  • : 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.
  • : Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19.All Travel Directors, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
  • : We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues.
  • : Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
  • : "I love to see how guests react to Paris because, despite its fame, it still surprises. It’s a majestic city, which shines in the daytime and sparkles at night."
  • : "One food I really love introducing my guests to is tramezzini sandwiches because they are a real art form in Venice. For the locals it is a quick inexpensive bite to get them through the day...best eaten standing up at the bar!"
  • : "One thing I really love about showing guests Eastern Europe is the rich history and culture of places that have previously been impossible to visit due to political situations."
  • Amsterdam: Cruise along the old waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
  • Wurzburg: Stand on the statue-lined Alte Mainbrucke and see the Marienburg fortress.
  • Wurzburg: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Würzburg Residence.
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the best-preserved medieval town in Germany and a truly enchanting destination. Step back in time and explore the city walls, towers, and gates around the old town as well as the old town itself.
  • Prague: Stroll through the Jewish Quarter with your Local Expert to hear how the Jewish community has shaped the history of Prague, and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry.
  • Prague: Visit the imposing St Vitus Cathedral and explore the atmospheric courtyards of the historic Prague Castle with your Local Expert.
  • Budapest: Stroll through the alleys of the Old Town of Buda and admire sweeping views from the Fisherman's Bastion with a Local Expert. Drive along the beautiful Andrassy Avenue to Heroes' Square. Stand atop Gellert Hill where the colossal Liberty Statue stands in front of the Citadella watching over the city. Marvel at extensive panoramic views as you look out over the famous river dividing Buda and Pest - the two sides linked by the mighty Chain Bridge and the newer, elegant Elizabeth Bridge.
  • Vienna: Walk through the first district, Inner Stadt, as your Local Expert reveals why this is the historic core of the city. You will also tour the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche.
  • 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-coloured 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 area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods and witness a gold and leather-work demonstration.
  • Lucerne: During your orientation with your Travel Director, see the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge.
  • Stanserhorn: Walk along beautiful scenic pathways at the summit of Mount Stanserhorn for a chance to see native animals like marmots.
  • 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: With a Local Expert, explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris. See famous landmarks including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower and the facades of the Louvre. Stroll the banks of the River Seine and admire romantic bridges, and enjoy a drive along the Champs Elysées to the Arc de Triomphe.
  • Paris: Shop in quaint boutiques like a true Parisian with your Local Expert.
  • Amsterdam: Toast to the travels ahead during your Welcome Dinner of modern European cuisine at Humphrey's Restaurant, a trendy eatery located in the heart of the city and surrounded by 17th century homes.
  • Budapest: Enjoy a scenic dinner cruise and take in the city's night time beauty as you float along the Danube.
  • Venice: Sip cocktails alongside the canals at Cafe Florian, while being serenaded by an ensemble of talented musicians and soak up the calming atmosphere long after the day-trippers have returned to their mainland hotels.
  • Venice: Enjoy a special Venetian Celebration Dinner with wine at La Principessa.
  • 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: Join an avid local foodie 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.
  • Paris: Rendezvous with your friends at a typical French bistro for a rousing Celebration Dinner with wine. Bon Appetit!
  • Dining Summary: 6 Dinner with Wine (DW), 17 Breakfast (B), and 2 Lunch with Wine (LW)
  • Vienna: Be pampered by locals with traditional coffee and cake. An experience like no other, this cosy café provides companionship, and promotes well-being and support for the community, in addition to crafting delicious treats.
  • 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.'
  • Vatican: Gain priority access into the Vatican Museums and admire the famous Bramante Staircase. Witness the genius of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and view the splendid dome of St. Peter's Basilica.
  • 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.  The workshop advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
  • Stanserhorn: Embark on a spectacular journey to the summit of Mount Stanserhorn and appreciate unrivalled views of snow-capped peaks. Meet a Swiss ranger and learn about the local wildlife and flora over a conservation talk. Learn about the conservation of the local ecosystem and local fauna from a Swiss ranger. Hear about what it takes to preserve the wildlife throughout the year and in all weather. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life On Land. Alternatively, walk along beautiful scenic pathways for a chance to see native animals like marmots.
Trip Style River cruise Group tour
Lodging Level Premium Premium
Physical Level
  • 2- Easy
  • 2- Easy
Travel Themes
  • Cultural
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • 50 plus
  • National Parks
  • Small Ship Cruise
  • Cultural
  • 50 plus
  • Education / Learning
Countries Visited
Cities and Attractions
  • Bamberg
  • Budapest
  • Heidelberg
  • Koblenz
  • Munich
  • Nantucket Island
  • Nuremberg
  • Trier
  • Vienna
  • Budapest
  • Florence
  • Lucerne
  • Paris
  • Prague
  • Rome
  • Vienna
Flights & Transport Ground transport included Airfare included
Activities
  • Culture
  • Historic sightseeing
  • History
  • Nature
  • River cruise
  • Ruins & Archaeology
  • Winetasting
  • Culture
  • Historic sightseeing
Meals Included

19 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches and 13 Dinners

N/A
Description

This cruise along the legendary rivers of Europe showcases a number of cultural and scenic highlights in France, Luxembourg, Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Begin your river cruise vacation in beautiful Paris, the timeless “City of Light.” Sail through the lush Mosel River Valley, discover the most scenic portion of the Rhine, famous for its historic castles and incredible wine, and gaze upon medieval cities that line the Main and Danube rivers. You will experience three grand old capitals – Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna – interspersed with charming towns, steeply terraced hillside vineyards, ancient fortresses and spectacular vistas. Conclude your journey in Budapest.

From Prague to Vienna and onto Paris, this immersive tour of Europe takes in the mansions of Amsterdam, the Roman Empire relics of Rome and the breathtaking scenery of the Alps. Arrive at your Venice hotel by private boat, ahead of an exclusive dining experience at La Fenice restaurant, and sunset cocktails at Café Florian. In the Golden city of Prague, take your pick of Insight Choice experiences, touring the courtyard of a 1000-year-old Prague Castle and St Vitus Cathedral, or joining a Local Expert on an exploration of the city’s historic Jewish Quarter, with a stop at a local bakery to sample Trdelník—a traditional Czech pastry. Journey onwards through the countryside forests of Bohemia to Hungary for a scenic Budapest dinner cruise, gliding past the city’s UNESCO world heritage sites in style.
Itinerary: Ultimate River Cruise

Day 1: Arrive Paris, France

Arrive in Paris and check-in to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Walk through the city’s enchanting streets, drop by a charming sidewalk café or visit one of many world class museums.

Day 2: Paris

Meals: Breakfast

Today you’ll visit Notre Dame and then enjoy some free time to explore the “City of Light.” Afterwards, you’ll see some of the most famous sights on a panoramic city tour, followed by a photo stop at Champs de Mars for views of the Eiffel Tower.

Day 3: Paris

Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy a free day to explore the romantic “City of Light.” Stroll along the Champs Elysées, lined with boutiques and cafés, or go to the top of the Eiffel Tower, built for the 1889 World’s Fair.

Day 4: Paris - Luxembourg - Embarkation

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Bid au revoir to Paris as you board your TGV high-speed train that will whisk you away to Luxembourg, one of Europe’s last independent duchies. You will have a guided walking tour of Luxembourg as well as a stop at the American Cemetery and Memorial, the final resting place of General George Patton, before boarding the ship. Tonight, gather on board for a Welcome Dinner. The ship departs very late tonight for Germany.

Day 5: Trier, Germany – Bernkastel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast enjoy a guided walking tour of Trier, Germany’s oldest city with a rich Roman past. You will see Trier Cathedral, the Basilica of Constantine and the Porta Nigra gate that dates back to 179 A.D. Continue on to Bernkastel, strategically located in the middle of the Mosel Valley’s wine-producing region, an area that’s been cultivating wine for over 500 years. A guided walking tour through the old town center this afternoon will take you past many medieval and Renaissance buildings. You will also enjoy a winery visit and sample several regional vintages. Your ship departs later this evening and cruises overnight.

Day 6: Koblenz – Rhine River Gorge – Rüdesheim

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today, enjoy a guided tour of Cochem that takes you to the spectacular hilltop Reichsburg Castle, offering fantastic views of the river valley below. Or, opt to take a walking tour of Koblenz and explore its charming town square and quaint shops. Return to the ship for a scenic afternoon cruise along the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine, with castle ruins, fortresses and the legendary Lorelei Rock. We arrive in Rüdesheim this evening and visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, or you may choose to join us for some Rüdesheimer Coffee. The ship moors overnight in Rüdesheim.

Day 7: Mainz – Heidelberg

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This morning, depart Rüdesheim and cruise to beautiful Mainz, arriving after lunch. Your guided walking tour includes a visit to the Gutenberg Museum, home to two copies of the world’s first printed Bible as well as centuries-old manuscripts and printing presses. You may also choose to see the famed Chagall windows, which depict scriptural scenes in stunning blue. As an alternative to Mainz, you can travel by motor coach to Heidelberg, Germany’s oldest university town, where you will take a tour of the old town, visit the red-walled castle with its Great Vat (a 49,000-gallon wine cask) and enjoy beautiful views of the Neckar Valley and the city below. Later this afternoon, the ship departs Mainz and cruises overnight to Wertheim.

Day 8: Wertheim

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Welcome to Wertheim, a quaint German town known for its intricate glassworks and charming medieval architecture. You have your choice of one of three excursions today. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the historic city center, a scenic guided bike tour along the Main River, or a visit to local bakery for a pretzel-making demonstration and tasting. Your ship cruises to Würzburg this evening.

Day 9: Würzburg - Kitzingen

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This morning’s guided tour of Würzburg will show you all of the city’s major sights, or you may prefer to visit the Residenz Palace and gardens, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The next stop is Kitzingen this afternoon where the town’s Historic Court Council and honorary Wine Queen will escort you to one of Germany’s oldest wine cellars to sample regional wines. You may either cruise to Kitzingen, or get there via a guided bike ride through the Franconian countryside. Later tonight, the ship sails towards Bamberg.

Day 10: Bamberg

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Arrive this afternoon in enchanting Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will have one of three ways to explore. The first is a guided walking tour of this medieval gem to see its cathedral, Old Town Hall and elegant old mansions, as well as sample some of Bamberg’s famous smoked beer. The second is a guided bike tour along the Main River and the third is a Bamberg Specialties tasting where you will enjoy smoked beer, licorice root and Hornla, a local favorite whose recipe dates back to 1427. This evening, we continue cruising towards Nuremberg.

Day 11: Nuremberg-Munich

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today you will travel by train from Nuremberg to Munich, the capital of Bavaria and one of Germany's largest cities. You will have an orientation walk upon arrival, and then your guide will offer suggestions on what to see during your free time in town and will take you to lunch in a local restaurant. Afterwards, you will enjoy a panoramic tour of this vibrant city. Back on board the ship tonight, you will meet new guests arriving from Prague.

Day 12: Nuremberg – Continental Divide

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

You have two excursion options today. Take a tour of the city’s medieval highlights, including Nuremberg Castle, the 900-year-old ramparts surrounding the city, Town Hall, Notre Dame and the house of artist Albrecht Dürer, or join a WWII tour and see the Coliseum, Nazi Parade Ground and Justice Palace. Later, the ship cruises the Main-Danube Canal to Regensburg.

Day 13: Regensburg

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This morning’s scenic cruising brings you into the final stretch of the Main-Danube Canal en route to Regensburg, one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. A guided walking tour will show you the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria, gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 A.D.

Day 14: Passau – Linz, Austria

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast, arrive in picturesque Passau, where the Inn and Ilz rivers flow into the Danube. You will have a choice of a walking tour of Passau’s Old Town, past the old city fortifications, Rathaus, Domplatz and Residenzplatz squares, as well as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, or more active guests may join either a guided bike tour from Passau to Erlau or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus fortress overlooking Passau. Return to the ship this afternoon for a scenic cruise to Linz, Austria’s third largest city and a major river port.

Day 15: Melk – Vienna

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Early this morning, we cruise to Melk. You have a choice between a guided tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s largest and most revered monasteries, or a guided bike tour along the Danube. Return to the ship for lunch before cruising on through the scenic Wachau Valley. Arrive in Vienna after dinner and explore the magnificent Austrian capital on your own.

Day 16: Vienna

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This morning, you will have a chance to savor the Baroque elegance of romantic Vienna through your choice of one of three different excursions. The first option is a panoramic tour of Vienna that guides you past the majestic Opera House, the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburg Emperors, Parliament, Town Hall and Vienna University. Afterwards, you will visit Vienna’s historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Graben and the world famous Spanish Riding School. The second option is a walking tour of Vienna’s hidden treasures that takes you to secret places and sights like Ankeruhr, a whimsical Art Nouveau clock. Your third option is a guided bike tour along the Danube and through the Donaupark. This afternoon, you can join a guided bike ride to Klosterneuburg Monastery, or explore at your leisure. Be sure to sample some Viennese coffee and pastries.

Day 17: Budapest, Hungary

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Your morning excursion includes sightseeing in the cities of Buda and Pest spread over both banks of the river. You will see famed Heroes’ Square and Castle Hill, home to Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church and spectacular views of the Danube. Alternatively, you may join a guided hike up to Budapest Castle Hill. After dinner, the ship will sail a special Illuminations Cruise past the city’s glittering riverfront.

Day 18: Budapest - Disembarkation

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, transfer from the ship to your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your own.

Day 19: Budapest

Meals: Breakfast

The day is free to explore beautiful Budapest at your leisure.

Day 20: Depart Budapest

Meals: Breakfast

Bid farewell to Budapest and prepare for your homeward flight.

Itinerary: Romantic European - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Small Group

Day 1: Arrive Amsterdam

Welcome to Amsterdam, enjoy a day of leisure. Join your Travel Director at 17:00 for a Welcome Reception. Mingle and get to know your fellow travellers as you cruise along some of the many quaint, tree-lined canals, to explore the heart of the Old City, before enjoying a pleasant evening of dinner and wine at a local restaurant.

Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam.

Dinner with Wine

Day 2: Rhine Valley to Würzburg

Relax with a scenic drive along the Rhine Valley to Würzburg. See the mighty Marienburg Fortress – the immense baroque palace of the Prince Bishops and one of the most important landmarks in Germany. On arrival, visit the imposing Würzburg Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and marvel at intricate decorations and lavish staterooms.

Maritim Hotel Würzburg.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 3: Rothenburg and Golden Prague

In the morning, venture to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the most well-preserved town on the Romantic Road. Continue East to the Czech border, passing the town of Pilsen renowned for its beer, to reach the Golden City of Prague. In the evening, perhaps take a river cruise through the heart of the city?

Hotel Royal Prague.

Breakfast

Day 4: Prague, City of a Hundred Spires

Explore Prague with Insight Choice. Choose to walk the courtyards of the Castle and visit the imposing St. Vitus Cathedral. Alternatively, join your Local Expert through the Jewish Quarter and hear about the history, traditions and legends of the Jewish people and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry. Then, the city is all yours to explore. Perhaps rummage through the renowned antique stores or shop for the finest Bohemian crystal? In the evening, why not enjoy an Optional Experience in the Czech countryside?

Hotel Royal Prague.

Breakfast

Day 5: Through Bohemia to Budapest

Start the day with a journey through the beautiful forested countryside of Bohemia. Journey to Hungary, following the River Danube to Budapest.In the evening, join a Local Expert to enjoy a scenic dinner cruise, whilst looking out over beautiful city views. Budapest boasts one of the most spectacular night time vistas, earning it the nickname 'Pearl of the Danube’.

Hilton Garden Inn, Budapest.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 6: The flavours of Budapest

Your orientation takes your along the grand Andrassy Avenue to Heroe's Square. Stroll through the alleys of the Old Town of Buda and admire sweeping views from the Fisherman’s Bastion with a Local Expert.Stand atop Gellért Hill where the colossal Liberty Statue stands in front of the Citadella watching over the city. Marvel at extensive panoramic views as you look out over the famous river dividing Buda and Pest - the two sides linked by the mighty Chain Bridge and the elegant, newer Elizabeth Bridge. Continue your travels, past the Turul Monument, a large eagle statue overlooking the town of Tatabanya, to the Austrian border and through pleasant farming country to the imperial capital of Vienna.

Hilton Vienna Park.

Breakfast

Day 7: Vienna and the Habsburgs

In the morning, there is the option to join a private tour of Maria Theresa's Schönbrunn Palace and formal gardens. Get your camera ready for a drive around the famous Ring Road. This grand boulevard, built along the lines of the old city walls, showcases many of the capital's architectural masterpieces, including the Opera House, magnificent Hofburg Imperial Residence and Parliament building. Later, join your Local Expert for a walk through Innere Stadt, the first district and historic core of Vienna. Sit down for traditional coffee and cake and mingle with locals at a cosy café.​

Hilton Vienna Park.

Breakfast

Day 8: Lake Wörthersee to Venice

This day's route takes you past quiet villages, through Styria's forested mountains and into the Carinthian Lake District. Continue past Europe's warmest lake, the Wörthersee, to cross into Italy near Tarvisio. Then follow mountain valleys and cascading streams down to the Veneto Plain en route to the unique city of Venice. Arrive by private boat to your hotel. In the late afternoon and early evening, sip a cocktail at Caffè Florian, whilst you are serenaded by an ensemble of talented musicians. Afterwards, stroll past the Doges Palace and the famous 'Bridge of Sighs' to Principessa restaurant for a magical dinner. Indulge in traditional Venetian dishes that are enriched with inspiration from seasonal produce, before returning to your hotel.

Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 9: The Magic of 'La Serenissima' Relaxed Start

In the morning, prepare to embrace this most romantic city. See the immense Campanile and Doge's Palace on St. Mark's Square, 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 centre. The rest of the day is at leisure. 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?

Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice.

Breakfast

Day 10: Villa Machiavelli and Rome

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 the Florence Cathedral and the historic cellar, which has a secret underground tunnel connecting the cellars to the oldest restaurant in Italy. Savour 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 your hotel in the Eternal City of Rome.

Veneto Palace Hotel, Rome.

Breakfast, Lunch with Wine

Day 11: Papal and Imperial Rome

With your Local Expert, visit the Vatican Museums. Insight provides special priority entry to avoid the crowds and gives you behind-the-scenes access to the Bramante Staircase, normally off-limits to the public. Inside the Sistine Chapel, admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling. Continue inside the cavernous St. Peter's Basilica, mother church of the Catholic faith, to see another Michelangelo masterpiece, the Pietà, as well as the splendid dome. 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.

Veneto Palace Hotel, Rome.

Breakfast

Day 12: Umbria and onto Florence Relaxed Start

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

Hotel Adler Cavalieri, Florence.

Breakfast, Lunch with Wine

Day 13: Renaissance Florence

Begin the morning by joining a Local Expert in Florence to view the multi-coloured 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, the political heart of the city. 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 Pisa and see the famous Leaning Tower?

Hotel Adler Cavalieri, Florence.

Breakfast

Day 14: Across the Alps to Lucerne

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 travelling alongside towering mountains and past rushing torrents, down to scenic Lake Lucerne. Upon return 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.

Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.

Breakfast

Day 15: Lucerne and Mt. Stanserhorn

In the morning, embark on a scenic journey by funicular railway and open-top cable car to the summit of the stunning Mount Stanserhorn. Breathe in the pristine mountain air and, on a clear day, witness views as far as Alsace and the Black Forest in Germany. Explore Mount Stanserhorn with Insight Choice. Choose to walk along beautiful scenic pathways for a chance to see marmots and other native animals. Alternatively, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and 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.

Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 16: Sights and delights of Paris

Journey through the rural French country side of Alsace and Burgundy regions, 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 centre 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?

Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.

Breakfast

Day 17: The food and flavours of Paris

Your exploration of Paris today starts with an Insight Choice. Choose to shop in quaint boutiques like a true Parisian for fashion, perfume or cosmetics with your Local Expert. Alternatively, join an avid foodie as you head into areas where Parisians go about their daily lives to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies.  In the evening, indulge in refined French cuisine during your Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole, frequently visited by the French entertainer Josephine Baker.

Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 18: Au Revoir Paris

Bid farewell to your travelling companions as your journey comes to an end. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08:00 and 11:00.

Breakfast

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"To travel is to live."
Hans Christian Anderson
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