Essential Europe with London

Begin your extraordinary journey in the heart of Italy’s capital, Rome. As the sun sets, gather with your fellow travelers and your Tour Director for a delightful welcome dinner at a charming local restaurant. Enjoy the first taste of authentic Roman cuisine and settle into your comfortable accommodations at a centrally located hotel (such as the Hilton Rome or similar).

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Rome with a day tailored to your interests. Choose between exploring the legendary Colosseum and Roman Forum, delving into the treasures of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, or discovering the rich heritage of the Jewish Ghetto and the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to wander Rome’s enchanting streets, savoring the city’s vibrant atmosphere and culinary delights. Accommodation remains at your comfortable Roman hotel.

Journey north through the picturesque landscapes of Umbria and Tuscany, arriving in Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, visit the Academy of Fine Arts to marvel at Michelangelo’s David, then stroll through the historic center to admire the Duomo, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistry’s renowned bronze doors, and the sculptures of Signoria Square. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore Florence’s artistic treasures at your own pace. Overnight at a centrally located hotel in Florence (such as the Grand Hotel Baglioni or similar).

Cross the Apennine Mountains and the River Po to reach the enchanting city of Venice. Glide along the Giudecca Canal by private boat, taking in the iconic views as you approach St. Mark’s Square. Experience the artistry of Murano glassmaking with a visit to a renowned workshop. After some leisure time, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local Venetian restaurant, then cap off the evening with a private water taxi ride along the Grand Canal. Stay overnight at a comfortable hotel in Venice (such as the Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal or similar).

Leave Italy behind as you journey into Switzerland, arriving in Bellinzona. Ascend by elevator to the courtyard of Castelgrande, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you’ll savor a light lunch of regional specialties paired with Ticino’s renowned Merlot wine. Continue through the breathtaking Swiss Alps, passing through the St. Gotthard Road tunnel, and arrive in Lucerne, where you’ll settle into your hotel (such as the Hotel Schweizerhof Lucerne or similar).

Discover the charm of Lucerne on a guided walking tour, visiting the poignant Lion Monument and the picturesque 14th-century Chapel Bridge spanning the River Reuss. The remainder of the day is yours to explore Lucerne’s medieval old town, lakeside promenades, and alpine vistas at your leisure. Enjoy another restful night at your Lucerne hotel.

Travel to the medieval city of Basel, uniquely positioned at the crossroads of Switzerland, France, and Germany. Board a high-speed TGV train and glide through the scenic French countryside, arriving in the romantic city of Paris by afternoon. Settle into your Parisian hotel (such as Le Bristol Paris or similar) and enjoy time to begin exploring the City of Light.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Paris, with the option to explore independently or join an optional excursion. In the afternoon, embark on a guided walk through one of Paris’s iconic neighborhoods, soaking up the city’s unique charm. As evening falls, delight in a memorable dinner cruise along the River Seine, admiring the illuminated landmarks that make Paris unforgettable. Return to your elegant Paris hotel for the night.

Bid farewell to Paris as you board the high-speed Eurostar train, traveling beneath the English Channel to London. Upon arrival, be greeted by your local hosts and enjoy the afternoon and evening at leisure to begin discovering the vibrant British capital. Stay at a centrally located London hotel (such as the Sofitel London St James or similar).

Embark on a panoramic sightseeing tour of London with a local expert, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall, Downing Street, Piccadilly Circus, and Buckingham Palace. Enjoy a guided visit to the magnificent St. Paul’s Cathedral. The afternoon and evening are yours to explore London’s vibrant neighborhoods, sample traditional pub fare, or stroll through one of the city’s beautiful Royal Parks. Return to your London hotel for your final night.

Enjoy a final breakfast in London before your unforgettable multi-day tour comes to a close. Bid farewell to your travel companions and set off on your onward journey, taking with you cherished memories of Europe’s most captivating cities.