Flavors of Europe - End Paris, Small Group

Flavors of Europe - End Paris, Small Group

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9 Days From

$5605

$5561

Flavors of Europe - End Paris, Small Group

9 Days Starting in Rome and ending in Paris

Visiting: Rome, Vatican, Florence, Cinque Terre, Levanto, Rapallo, Lucerne, Stanserhorn, Paris

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English
From: $5605 $5561 Operator discount: -$44

NB: Prices correct on 07-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Take your taste buds on the Flavors of Europe guided tour as you experience hand picked menus from Rome to Paris. Explore Michelangelo's epic Sistine Chapel on your tour of the Vatican City, with fast-track access. See Florence through the eyes of your Local Expert and marvel at the green marble of the Duomo, before a boat whisks you to the crown jewel of the Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre. Enjoy the epic scenery of the Italian Lake District before adventuring through the snow-capped Swiss Alps to the lush surrounds of Lake Lucerne. Paris rounds out the vacation with a celebratory dinner exploring the flavors of Europe.

Highlights

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    Choice Highlights

    • Choose between two carefully selected activities
    • Paris: We walk up and down the "quartier" and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theaters, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighborhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc's spectacular jardin vertical 'oasis d'Aboukir', the Napoleonic "Egyptian" district etc.
    • Paris: Join an avid local food lover 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.

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    Top Rated Highlights

    • Rome: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the medieval buildings, including Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches, scattered throughout the city.
    • Rome: Experience Rome through the eyes of a local, as a passionate Roman guides you through vibrant backstreets, showing you how modern life takes place around ancient treasures.
    • Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the multi-colored 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.
    • Cinque Terre: Led by your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site with dedicated time to explore one of the charming fishing villages.
    • 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.
    • Lucerne: See the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge.
    • Paris: Experience the magic of Paris with Insight Vacations as you explore its iconic sights, landmarks, and charming streets. Meander along the picturesque banks of the River Seine, delving into the rich history of its beautiful bridges and renowned landmarks, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe. Whether from the comfort of your coach or a scenic vantage point, immerse yourself in the timeless stories that bring this enchanting city to life.

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    Make Travel Matter

    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. Walk along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, with the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 15: Affordable and Clean Energy & Life on Land.

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    Authentic Dining

    Rome: Savor dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant, offering a perfect exploration of Lazio's typical flavors.

    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 food lover 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 newfound friends at La Coupole for a rousing dinner with wine.

  • content:

    Insight Choice

    Paris: We walk up and down the "quartier" and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theaters, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighborhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc's spectacular jardin vertical 'oasis d'Aboukir', the Napoleonic "Egyptian" district etc.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome To The Eternal City Of Rome

Location: Rome

Accommodation: Bettoja Hotel Massimo D'Azeglio, Rome.

Accommodation Name: Bettoja Massimo D'Azeglio, Rome

2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a center of celebration. As festivities unfold, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure you make the most of your time as you visit the Eternal City. Rome is one of the world’s most historic cities, filled with classical antiquities, medieval buildings, renaissance palaces and baroque churches. Transfers to your hotel depart Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport. Then this extraordinary city is yours to discover. Later, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception and enjoy the opportunity to mingle and get to know your fellow travelers.

Day 2: Rome With The Locals Relaxed Start

Location: Rome

Accommodation: Bettoja Hotel Massimo D'Azeglio, Rome.

Accommodation Name: Bettoja Massimo D'Azeglio, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rome is about art, antiquity, piazzas and palaces, and your morning walking tour with a Local Expert includes this in abundance. Toss a coin into the spectacular Trevi Fountain and see the best-preserved monument from the Roman period - the Pantheon, before enjoying free time to do as the Romans do, in Piazza Navona. In the evening, enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, welcomed by the Rector of the basilica. Admire the stunning 9th-century Byzantine mosaics illuminated for this exclusive visit.

Day 3: The Vatican And Florence

Location: Rome, Vatican, Florence

Accommodation: Hotel Adler Cavalieri, Florence.

Accommodation Name: Indigo, Florence

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start the day with your Local Expert as they introduce you to the grandeur of the city, starting with the Vatican State, the richest community in the world. Visit the Vatican Museums, full of priceless treasures collected by the Popes. Insight provides special priority entry to avoid the crowds and admire the Papal art collection. Once inside the Sistine Chapel, admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling. Next door, visit St. Peter's Basilica to admire Michelangelo's emotive 'Pieta' and see Bernini's intricately carved Papal Altar. Your travels continue with a drive to the Chianti Hills, to arrive at the city of Florence. A Local Expert will accompany you to the Duomo, where the Gates of Paradise adorn the baptistery. Continue to Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city. Lined with fountains and statues, it acts as an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Take time to gaze at Neptune and David as you explore the historic city center.

Day 4: The Cinque Terre And Italian Riviera

Location: Florence, Cinque Terre, Levanto, Rapallo

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Bristol Resort & Spa, Rapallo.

Accommodation Name: Grand Bristol Resort & Spa, Rapallo

Meals Included: Breakfast

The famous Italian Riviera and the Cinque Terre are a highlight of your journey. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes. With a Local Expert, appreciate the views as you approach one of the picturesque fishing villages by boat (weather permitting). Please note that the cruise is weather dependent. Spend time exploring the old medieval quarter or the popular sandy beach. Continue by train to Levanto, then on to your resort in Rapallo.

Day 5: Across The Alps To Lucerne

Location: Rapallo, Lucerne

Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.

Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast

Pass Milan as you head north for the Italian Lake District via Lake Lugano. Continue into the heart of the Swiss Alps, passing through the Gotthard Tunnel, one of the longest road tunnels in the world. Travel alongside towering mountains and past rushing torrents, down to scenic Lake Lucerne, where you are at leisure for the rest of the afternoon.

Day 6: Lucerne’S Lakes, Mountains And Lion

Location: Lucerne, Stanserhorn

Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.

Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-roof deck, cable car powered by solar panels take you up to the summit. Walk along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals and discover local wildlife and flora.Upon return to 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. The rest of the day is at leisure to shop for fine watches and delectable chocolates. Tonight, enjoy a fine selection of restaurants to choose from for your Dine-Around Evening.

Day 7: Sights And Delights Of Paris

Location: Lucerne, Paris

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey through the rural French countryside of Burgundy, 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 center 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?

Day 8: The Food And Flavors Of Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start your day with an Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join an avid foodie 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.

Day 9: Au Revoir Paris

Location: Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bid farewell to your traveling companions as your journey comes to an end. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport.

What's Included

  • Meals

    4 dinners with wine and 8 breakfasts are included.

  • Local Expert Commentary

    Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.

  • Hotel and Restaurant Tips

    Hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you won't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency.

  • Porterage

    We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.

  • Insight Flourish

    From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.

  • Wi-Fi

    Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

  • Transfers

    If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times.

  • Luxury Coach

    Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.

  • Hand Sanitizer

    Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

What's Not Included

  • Additional Transfers

    If your flights are outside the scheduled times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as visiting world-famous cabaret shows in Paris are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style on Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom, ensuring a comfortable journey through Italy, Switzerland, and France.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at the Bettoja Massimo D'Azeglio in Rome, the Indigo in Florence, the Grand Bristol Resort & Spa in Rapallo, the Astoria in Lucerne, and Le Méridien Etoile in Paris, offering luxurious amenities and prime locations.

Dining Summary

  • 4 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 8 Breakfast (B)

Additional Included Highlights

  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
  • If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Insight Experiences

  • Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini's first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.

Well-being

  • 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.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the Rome portion of the tour?

    In Rome, you will enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, where you will be welcomed by the Rector of the basilica and admire the stunning 9th-century Byzantine mosaics illuminated for this exclusive visit. Additionally, you will have a walking tour with a Local Expert, including a visit to the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon.

  • What activities are available in Lucerne?

    In Lucerne, you will explore Mount Stanserhorn on an open-roof deck cable car powered by solar panels, walk along scenic pathways, and discover local wildlife and flora. You will also see the town's proud Lion Monument, stroll across the covered Chapel Bridge, and visit the baroque Jesuit church. The rest of the day is at leisure to shop for fine watches and chocolates.

  • What are the highlights of the Paris segment of the tour?

    In Paris, you will see iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the banks of the Seine, the Place de la Concorde, and the Champs Élysées leading to the Arc de Triomphe. You will also have the option to explore the Montorgueil district or join a foodie tour to sample local treats. The tour concludes with a Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole.

  • What is the transportation like during the tour?

    The tour includes travel on Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. The coaches are sanitized before the start of the tour and maintained to high standards, with physical distancing measures implemented. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available on the coach and at hotels where available.

  • Are there any special dining experiences included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes several special dining experiences such as dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant in Rome, a Dine-Around Evening in Lucerne where you can choose from a selection of restaurants, and a Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole in Paris.

  • What kind of support is provided for luggage during the tour?

    The tour includes porterage services, meaning your bags will be carried for you and promptly delivered to your hotel door. This ensures you won't have to worry about handling your luggage throughout the tour.

  • What kind of local expertise is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes Local Experts who provide guided tours and commentary at various locations. For example, in Rome, a Local Expert will guide you through a walking tour including the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. In Florence, a Local Expert will accompany you to the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria. In Cinque Terre, a Local Expert will lead you through one of the picturesque fishing villages.

  • What measures are in place for health and safety on the tour?

    The tour includes several health and safety measures such as sanitized luxury coaches, physical distancing measures, and freely available hand sanitizer on board the coach.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Sunday

Jul 26, 2025 - Aug 03, 2025
$5605 $5561

Operator discount: -$44

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.