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DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for Italy
Depart for Italy
DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Milan, Lake Como
Welcome to Italy! Arrive in Milan and transfer to your hotel on the western shore of spectacular Lake Como, one of the world's most romantic destinations. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the beautiful new surroundings. Tonight, a Welcome Drink and orientation meeting with your tour manager at the hotel at approximately 6 PM, followed by a Welcome Dinner with your fellow travelers. We recommend that you select flights which arrive in your destination no later than 4 PM on Day 2 or earlier, if possible
Overnight: Lake Como
Meals: Dinner
DAY 3, Thursday - Village of Bellagio
Begin the day in this paradise with a scenic morning cruise on Lake Como to the exquisite village of Bellagio, named "The Pearl" of Lake Como. Nestled amid cypress groves, its earthy colored buildings climb up from the lakeside promenade. Wander along the narrow streets and alleyways, lined with craft shops, boutiques and cafés; or visit some of the gorgeous gardens with manicured lawns and fountains at Villa Melzi or Villa Serbelloni. Upon return, time to experience the delights of this lakeside town with its spectacular mountain views, wonderful restaurants, and boutiques
Overnight: Lake Como
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Friday - Lake Lugano, St. Gotthard Tunnel, Lucerne's Old City
Travel this morning to Lugano in southern Switzerland's Italian-speaking Ticino region on the northern shore of glacial Lake Lugano. Its Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures is similar to Italy's northern Lombardy region and reflected in its architecture. The palm trees give way to Alpine peaks and glaciers as you continue heading north traversing through the St. Gotthard Tunnel built under the Swiss Alps. On your journey to Lucerne, pass magnificent Alpine scenery, roaring waterfalls and running rivers. In the stunning lakeside Swiss city of Lucerne, get acquainted with the city on your walking tour to the sentimental Lion Monument, the 14th Century Chapel Bridge and the cobbled streets of the well-preserved medieval Altstadt (Old Town)
Overnight: Lucerne
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, Saturday - Full Day in Lucerne
The day is yours to independently discover Lucerne, in the heart of central Switzerland. Wander through the lively streets, over bridges and along the picturesque lakeshore. Shop to your heart's content for chocolates, watches, the famous Swiss and German cuckoo clocks, or sip coffee at an outdoor café and just "people-watch". Perhaps, join the exciting optional tour to the summit of Mt. Pilatus. Ascend the world's steepest cogwheel railway that winds up through lush meadows and sparkling mountain streams to nearly 7,000 feet. After time to admire the splendid panoramic views, descend by aerial cableway
Optional: Mount Pilatus Tour (AM)
Overnight: Lucerne
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, Sunday - Basel City Tour and Cruise Embarkation
This morning depart Lucerne and travel Basel. Upon arrival, enjoy a city tour of Basel, the geographical point where the Swiss, German and French borders meet. Explore the Kleinbasel district along the Rhine River, the old buildings and narrow alleyways of Grossbasel, and "Tinguely Fountain," a unique fountain designed by the Swiss artist Jean Tinguely. This afternoon arrive at port. After arrival formalities, time to relax on board. This evening, meet your Cruise Director and enjoy a gala welcome dinner as it sets the mood for your delightful river cruise
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 7, Monday - Breisach Walking Tour
Arrive this morning in the small town of Breisach that dates back over 4,000 years. On your walking tour along the cobbled streets lined with pastel-painted houses, it's hard to believe this town was mostly destroyed in WWII and then totally restored to its original beauty. View the towering Romanesque and Gothic St. Stephansmunster Cathedral, a highlight of the city. After lunch set sail for Strasbourg
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8, Tuesday - Strasbourg City Tour
A lovely day awaits you in Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, situated on the border of France and Germany, blending the cultures of both countries. Discover Strasbourg on the tour highlighting the city's center, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Of special note is the stunning Gothic Cathedral, an exquisite example of late Gothic architecture that houses one of the finest astronomical clocks in existence. See the magical La Petite France district, home to quaint shops and charming bistros, Place Kleber, a large historic square in the center of the city and Place Gutenberg, dedicated to the inventor of the printing press. This evening, the ship sets sail toward Speyer
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9, Wednesday - Morning in Speyer & Evening in Rudesheim
This morning arrive in Speyer. Perhaps take a refreshing morning walk through this picturesque town founded by the Romans, or alternatively, join the optional tour to Heidelberg, home to the oldest university in Germany and inspiration for some of the world's greatest writers and artists. The ship will continue sailing this morning and passengers joining the tour will rejoin the ship at lunchtime and relax on board this afternoon. After dinner, arrive in Rudesheim, a lively village in the heart of the Rhine; perhaps take a leisurely walk through town or visit a quaint wine tavern
Optional: Heidelberg City Tour (AM)
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10, Thursday - Morning Cruising & Afternoon in Koblenz
This morning take in the spectacular vistas as the ship sails past castles perched on lofty cliffs, terraced vineyards and tiny villages. Pass the mighty Lorelei Rock on the eastern bank of the Rhine rising vertically from the waters, named for the siren "Lorelei" who bewitched sailors passing by. After lunch on board, the ship docks in Koblenz, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Join a walking tour and free time to explore the Romanesque architecture and imposing defensive towers of this 2000-year old city. Or, join the optional tour to the dramatic Marksburg Castle, the only hill castle on the Rhine that's never been destroyed and has been continuously occupied for over 700 years
Optional: Marksburg Castle (PM)
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 11, Friday - Cologne City Tour
Today the ship will dock in Cologne, one of Germany's largest cities and capital of the Rhineland. Your walking tour of the city is highlighted by the soaring, twin-steeple Gothic cathedral that is the geographical and spiritual heart of the city. Known for its vibrant art scene, Cologne abounds with cafes, galleries, shops and taverns
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 12, Saturday - Amsterdam City Tour
Cruise into Amsterdam as you enjoy breakfast on board, and join a panoramic tour of 700-year-old Amsterdam. View the Royal Palace on Amsterdam's Dam Square, the Queen's official home-away-from-home. On to the Dutch National Monument dedicated by Queen Juliana as a memorial to the victims of WWII and to the unusual Skinny Bridge, once so narrow that pedestrians could not pass each other. Then, board a glass-top boat and cruise the winding canals for an up-close view of the stately historic homes, 16th-century warehouses and charming churches with striking bell towers. This evening bid farewell to your traveling companions on your final night on board
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 13, Sunday - Bruges City Tour
This morning, disembark your ship and travel through the countryside to reach Bruges. Enjoy a tour one of Europe's most beautiful cities. Walk along picturesque cobbled lanes lined with historic churches and whitewashed almshouses. View the Church of Our Lady, housing the astonishing Madonna statue by Michelangelo, and visit the Market Square with its astonishing Belfry. This evening, treat yourself to an extraordinary dinner or perhaps just sample the city's famous chocolate and beer
Overnight: Bruges
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 14, Monday - Afternoon in Paris, the "City of Lights"
On to Paris, the "City of Lights." Upon arrival, start your discovery of one of the world's greatest cities with its endless treasures. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Perhaps, visit the bustling Montmartre and see spectacular views of the city, visit the Basilica of Sacre Coeur, and walk the winding streets to mingle with the street artists selling their wares at Place du Tertre
Overnight: Paris
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 15, Tuesday - Tour of Paris
Drive along the famous Champs Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe, Concorde Square, and the iconic Eiffel Tower, symbol of Paris. On to the celebrated "Rive Gauche," the vivacious Left Bank where artists, philosophers and writers in a long gone era flourished in the artistic community at Montparnasse. View the Latin Quarter, home to many of France's higher education establishments, such as the Sorbonne. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure or join the optional tour to magnificent Versailles to witness the grandeur of French classical architecture on the visit to the Palace and extravagant State Apartments. Tonight, join your Tour Manager and newfound friends at the hotel, for a Farewell Reception
Optional: Versailles Apartments (PM)
Overnight: Paris
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 16, Wednesday - Depart France
This morning, transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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