Romantic European - Start London, End Paris, Classic Group
Romantic European - Start London, End Paris, Classic Group
$8585
Romantic European - Start London, End Paris, Classic Group
20 Days Starting in London and ending in Paris
Visiting: London, Amsterdam, Wurzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Prague, Budapest, Vienna, Venice, Rome, Vatican, Umbria, Florence, Lucerne, Stanserhorn, Paris
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Tour Overview
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 TrdelnÃk—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.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To London
Location: London
Accommodation: Park Plaza Victoria, London.
Accommodation Name: Thistle Marble Arch, London
Welcome to London. After checking into your hotel, the afternoon is free to enjoy a city that is famous for its pomp and pageantry. Perhaps relax with a walk along the Serpentine in Hyde Park or window shop in the elegant boutiques of Knightsbridge? Alternatively, you may want to stroll along the Thames to the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London.
Day 2: London To Amsterdam
Location: London, Amsterdam
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam.
Accommodation Name: Apollo, Amsterdam
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meet your Travel Director and transfer to London’s St. Pancras Station to board the high-speed Eurostar for a rail journey via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel. Once in Amsterdam, join your Travel Director in the evening for a Welcome Dinner. Get to know your fellow guests during a cruise, along some of the many quaint, tree-lined canals. Admire the elegant merchant houses from the 16th and 17th centuries, their facades are a reflection of when trade flourished during Amsterdam's Golden Age. Relax as you pass stunning gables, beautiful churches and the iconic Magere Brug, better known as the Skinny Bridge. Disembark and venture to a local restaurant for dinner.
Day 3: Rhine Valley To Würzburg
Location: Amsterdam, Wurzburg
Accommodation: Maritim Hotel Würzburg.
Accommodation Name: Maritim, Würzburg
Meals Included: Breakfast
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, with a Local Expert. Marvel at intricate decorations and lavish staterooms.
Day 4: Rothenburg And Golden Prague
Location: Wurzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Prague
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Prague.
Accommodation Name: Royal, Prague
Meals Included: Breakfast
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?
Day 5: Prague, City Of A Hundred Spires
Location: Prague
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Prague.
Accommodation Name: Royal, Prague
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 TrdelnÃk, 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?
Day 6: Through Bohemia To Budapest
Location: Prague, Budapest
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn, Budapest.
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn, Budapest
Meals Included: Breakfast
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’.
Day 7: Budapest, Queen Of The Danube
Location: Budapest
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn, Budapest.
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn, Budapest
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive along the beautiful Andrassy Avenue to Heroes' 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.
Day 8: The Flavors Of Budapest
Location: Budapest, Vienna
Accommodation: Hilton Vienna Park.
Accommodation Name: Hilton Vienna Park, Hilton Vienna Plaza, Vienna
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning enjoy a tour of the Liszt Music Academy with a student, followed by an enchanting recital. The university was founded by the piano virtuoso and composer Franz Liszt in 1875. 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.
Day 9: Vienna And The Habsburgs
Location: Vienna
Accommodation: Hilton Vienna Park.
Accommodation Name: Hilton Vienna Park, Hilton Vienna Plaza, Vienna
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 cozy café.​
Day 10: Along The Shores Of Lake Wörthersee To Venice
Location: Vienna, Venice
Accommodation: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice.
Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 on the corner of Piazza San Marco, whilst you are serenaded by an ensemble of talented musicians. Afterwards, stroll past the Doges Palace and the famous 'Bridge of Sighs' to a local restaurant in the heart of the San Marco 'sestieri' for a magical dinner.
Day 11: The Magic Of 'La Serenissima' Relaxed Start
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice.
Accommodation Name: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 center. 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?
Day 12: Villa Machiavelli And Rome
Location: Venice, Rome
Accommodation: Room 007 Select, Rome.
Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
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'. Then join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with an enchanting lunch time concert presented by the Prima Materia Association. After visit the Italian garden with views of Florence and the historic cellar, which has a secret underground tunnel connecting the cellars to the oldest restaurant in Italy. Savor 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 Rome. In the evening, enjoy a private after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes. Gaze in awe at the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics, illuminated for this evening's experience, and see the first sculpture by Bernini.
Day 13: Papal And Imperial Rome
Location: Rome, Vatican, Rome
Accommodation: Room 007 Select, Rome.
Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
With your Local Expert, visit the Vatican Museums. Insight provides special priority entry to avoid the crowds and admire the Papal art collection. 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.
Day 14: Umbria And Onto Florence Relaxed Start
Location: Rome, Umbria, Florence
Accommodation: Hotel Adler Cavalieri, Florence.
Accommodation Name: Villa Neroli, Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meet chef Lorenzo at his family farm in Umbria. Explore the art of Italian cooking during an entertaining pasta demonstration and delicious lunch accompanied by Orvieto Classico wine. Continue on to your hotel in Florence.
Day 15: Renaissance Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation: Hotel Adler Cavalieri, Florence.
Accommodation Name: Villa Neroli, Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin the morning by joining a Local Expert in Florence to view the multi-colored 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?
Day 16: Across The Alps To Lucerne
Location: Florence, Lucerne
Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 traveling 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.
Day 17: Lucerne And Mt. Stanserhorn
Location: Lucerne, Stanserhorn, Lucerne
Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-top cable car powered by solar panels take you up the summit. Breathe in the pristine mountain air and, on a clear day, witness views as far as Alsace and the Black Forest in Germany. 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. 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.
Day 18: 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 country side of Alsace and Burgundy regions, famous for their vineyards and wines, to arrive in the vibrant City of Light. During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, 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 19: The Food And Flavors Of Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your exploration of Paris today starts with an Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join an local food lover 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 dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole, frequently visited by the French entertainer Josephine Baker.
Day 20: 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
19 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners with Wine, and 2 Lunches with Wine are included.
-
Activities
Choose between two carefully selected activities in various locations.
-
Local Expert Tours
Guided tours with local experts in Prague, Paris, Budapest, Vienna, Venice, Rome, Florence, and more.
-
Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided to ensure you don't miss any commentary from your Local Expert.
-
Hotel and Restaurant Tips
All hotel and restaurant tips are included.
-
Taxes and Porterage
All taxes and porterage charges at hotels are included.
-
Baggage Handling
Baggage handling is included, with bags delivered to your hotel door.
-
Insight Flourish
Occasional local specialties representing the destination are provided by your Travel Director.
-
Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available on the coach and in hotels (where available).
-
Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights match the itinerary start and end dates.
What's Not Included
-
Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as river cruises, private tours, and additional activities are not included.
-
Flights
Flights to and from the start and end locations are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Additional Transfers
Transfers outside the scheduled times or for flights not matching the itinerary start and end dates are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with high-speed Eurostar trains, luxurious air-conditioned coaches with double legroom, and private boats in Venice. Enjoy smooth and scenic journeys across Europe.
Accommodation
Stay in a variety of comfortable and well-appointed hotels including the Thistle Marble Arch in London, Grand Hotel Amrâth in Amsterdam, Maritim Hotel in Wurzburg, and Hilton Garden Inn in Budapest, among others.
Dining Summary
- 19 Breakfast (B)
- 6 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 2 Lunch with Wine (LW)
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
- Budapest: Enjoy a tour of the Liszt Music Academy with a student, followed by an enchanting recital. Producing incredible musical talent, the university was founded by piano virtuoso and composer Franz Liszt in 1875.
- Vienna: Be pampered with traditional coffee and cake. An experience like no other, this cozy 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.'
- 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 tour?
The tour includes several unique experiences such as a scenic dinner cruise along the Danube in Budapest, a private after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome, a guided visit through the house of Niccolo Machiavelli in Tuscany, and a tour of the Liszt Music Academy in Budapest with a student, followed by a recital.
-
Are there any special dining experiences on this tour?
Yes, the tour includes several special dining experiences such as a Welcome Dinner in Amsterdam, a Venetian Celebration Dinner in Venice, a tasting of locally made wines and Tuscan snacks in the underground cellar of Machiavelli's home, and a refined French cuisine dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole in Paris.
-
What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides transportation on Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. The coach is sanitized before the start of the tour and maintained to high standards. Additionally, there is a high-speed Eurostar train journey from London to Amsterdam.
-
What kind of accommodations can I expect on this tour?
Accommodations on this tour include stays at well-known hotels such as Thistle Marble Arch in London, Grand Hotel Amrâth in Amsterdam, Maritim Hotel in Würzburg, Hotel Royal in Prague, Hilton Garden Inn in Budapest, Hilton Vienna Park in Vienna, Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio in Venice, Room 007 Select in Rome, Villa Neroli in Florence, Hotel Astoria in Lucerne, and Le Méridien Etoile in Paris.
-
Are there any activities that support sustainable tourism?
Yes, the tour includes activities that support sustainable tourism such as a visit to a traditional glassblowing workshop in Venice, which supports the survival of this traditional craft, and a journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a solar-powered cable car, which supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals related to clean energy and life on land.
-
What kind of local expert-led tours are included?
The tour includes several local expert-led tours such as a stroll through the Jewish Quarter in Prague, a tour of the Liszt Music Academy in Budapest, a city tour of Vienna, a guided visit through the house of Niccolo Machiavelli in Tuscany, and a tour of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.
-
Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional activities available during the tour, such as a river cruise through the heart of Prague, a private tour of Maria Theresa's Schönbrunn Palace and formal gardens in Vienna, and a visit to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine in Venice.
-
What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 19 breakfasts, 6 dinners with wine, and 2 lunches with wine. Some of the special meals include a Welcome Dinner in Amsterdam, a Venetian Celebration Dinner in Venice, a tasting of locally made wines and Tuscan snacks in Tuscany, and a refined French cuisine dinner at La Coupole in Paris.
-
Is there any free time for personal exploration during the tour?
Yes, the tour provides free time for personal exploration in several cities such as London, Prague, Budapest, Vienna, Venice, Rome, Florence, Lucerne, and Paris. During these times, you can explore local attractions, shop, or participate in optional activities.
-
What kind of cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes various cultural experiences such as a visit to the Jewish Quarter in Prague, a scenic dinner cruise along the Danube in Budapest, a tour of the Liszt Music Academy in Budapest, a guided visit through the house of Niccolo Machiavelli in Tuscany, and a private after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome.
-
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
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025 Dec
2025 Apr
2026 May
2026 Jun
2026 Jul
2026 Aug
2026 Sep
2026 Dec
2026
Saturday - Thursday
Apr 19, 2025 - May 08, 2025Saturday - Thursday
May 17, 2025 - Jun 05, 2025Saturday - Thursday
May 31, 2025 - Jun 19, 2025Saturday - Thursday
Jun 14, 2025 - Jul 03, 2025Saturday - Thursday
Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 17, 2025Saturday - Thursday
Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 31, 2025Saturday - Thursday
Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 28, 2025Saturday - Thursday
Aug 23, 2025 - Sep 11, 2025Saturday - Thursday
Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 25, 2025Saturday - Thursday
Dec 20, 2025 - Jan 08, 2026Saturday - Thursday
Apr 18, 2026 - May 07, 2026Saturday - Thursday
May 16, 2026 - Jun 04, 2026Saturday - Thursday
May 30, 2026 - Jun 18, 2026Saturday - Thursday
Jun 13, 2026 - Jul 02, 2026Saturday - Thursday
Jun 27, 2026 - Jul 16, 2026Saturday - Thursday
Jul 11, 2026 - Jul 30, 2026Saturday - Thursday
Aug 08, 2026 - Aug 27, 2026Saturday - Thursday
Aug 22, 2026 - Sep 10, 2026Saturday - Thursday
Sep 05, 2026 - Sep 24, 2026Saturday - Thursday
Dec 19, 2026 - Jan 07, 2027Book 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.
-
Terms and Conditions