Traditional Europe
Traditional Europe
Traditional Europe
18 Days Starting in Amsterdam, Netherlands and ending in Paris, France
Visiting: Amsterdam, Cologne, Engelberg, Lucerne, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Pompeii, Capri, Florence, Monaco, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Lyon, Paris
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ETRAZN19
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
15 - 54
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe with the "Traditional Europe" tour. This cultural adventure takes you through the Netherlands, Germany, France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Italy, Vatican City, and Monaco. Discover iconic cities like Amsterdam, Rome, and Paris, and explore hidden gems such as Colmar and Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Experience the rich history and vibrant cultures of each destination, from the ancient ruins of Pompeii to the artistic treasures of Florence. Enjoy unique experiences like a glassblowing demonstration in Venice and a traditional Tyrolean lunch in the Austrian Alps. With expert guides, luxury accommodations, and scenic cruises, this tour offers a perfect blend of must-see highlights and local experiences, ensuring a memorable European adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure City
Meals Included: Dinner
All the highlights of Europe lie ahead on this epic journey from the Netherlands to Austria, Italy to France. Spend the day exploring Amsterdam on foot, by bike or tram. Later, meet your Travel Director and travel companions and board a glass-topped boat for a Welcome Reception canal cruise, including a light dinner and a drink as you navigate the city’s labyrinthine canals lined with centuries-old gabled façades.
Day 2: Admire Cologne And Cruise In The Rhineland
Location: Cologne
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Maritim Darmstadt
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel east, crossing the border into Germany bound for Cologne. Here, you’ll see the iconic twin spires of its imposing Cathedral, said to be the final resting place of the Three Wise Men. We cruise from Boppard to St. Goar along the mighty Rhine, lined with medieval villages and castles that cling to the hills. This evening, we stay in the Rhineland and enjoy dinner at our hotel.
Day 3: Enjoy Heidelberg Then Drive Into The Alps
Location: Engelberg
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Schweizerhof
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The imposing ruins of Heidelberg Castle feature on our drive through this vibrant university city en route to the quaint medieval town of Colmar. Here we will enjoy an orientation stroll and free time for lunch. Our journey continues through the picturesque vineyards of Alsace en route to our hotel in the stunning mountain retreat of Engelberg, with a free evening to enjoy the town.
Day 4: Uncover Lucerne’S Treasures
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Schweizerhof
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend the day exploring Lucerne. Pay tribute to the Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending Louise XVI during the French Revolution at the mournful Lion Monument, then admire the splendor of the flower-lined Chapel Bridge with its 17th-century paintings. Spend the rest of the day at leisure or consider joining an Optional Experience up one of the nearby peaks for spectacular panoramic views before returning to Engelberg.
Day 5: Journey To Liechtenstein And Innsbruck
Location: Innsbruck
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Grauer Bär
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Admire rugged alpine scenery en route to the Principality of Liechtenstein, stopping in its capital, Vaduz. Cross the Austrian border and continue along the Arlberg route for a journey filled with pinch-me moments. Snow-capped mountains surround you as you travel through the stunning scenery of the Tyrol. Enjoy the Tyrolean countryside while you Connect With Locals over lunch at a Be My Guest experience before arriving in Innsbruck. Visit the Old Town where you’ll see the famous Golden Roof completed in 1500 for Emperor Maximilian I to mark his wedding. Admire the fascinating crystal installations and browse for precious gifts and souvenirs at the Swarovski Crystal Worlds Store.
Day 6: Onwards To Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Le Boulevard Lido
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross the extraordinary Europa Bridge, rising almost 200 meters above the Wipp Valley, following the Brenner Pass past alpine pastures and pine-clad peaks into Italy and the magical island city of Venice. Spend this evening at leisure, gliding by gondola through the city's canals, enjoying a Campari spritz in a quiet piazza or watching the sun set over the romantic Grand Canal.
Day 7: Discover The Floating City Of Venice Make Travel Matter
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Le Boulevard Lido
Meals Included: Breakfast
Witness the centuries-old tradition of Venetian glassmaking. This is a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience which helps to preserve the strong tradition of glassblowing for which Venice is justifiably famous. You’ll learn how the talented master craftsmen use the same techniques their forefathers did to create the delicate artworks which adorn homes worldwide, perhaps inspiring you to buy a souvenir to remind you of this special visit. Later, board a private launch for your journey through the canals of Venice to St. Mark's Square where you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city's centuries-old history and view the ornate Doge's Palace and Bridge of Sighs. Spend the afternoon exploring Venice your way, which could mean finding a tucked away bacaro to soak up some of the local atmosphere, a cruise around the lagoon or zigzagging up the Le Mercerie shopping street.
Day 8: All Roads Lead To Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Midas Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.Travel over the green and golden landscapes of the Apennine hills through beautiful Tuscany and Umbria, arriving in Rome where you'll spend the next two nights. This evening is yours to embrace la dolce vita. Relax in the Piazza Navona with an espresso, sit on the Spanish Steps or savor a tasty gelato.
Day 9: Explore Ancient Rome And The Vatican City
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Midas Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast
Delve into the treasures of the Vatican with a Local Specialist who will take you on a sightseeing tour through St. Peter's Basilica to see Michelangelo's sorrowful Pietà . Cross the Tiber into Ancient Rome to see the mighty Colosseum where brave gladiators once fought to the applause of exhilarated spectators, then enjoy views of Circus Maximus which once hosted chariot races. The rest of the day is yours to explore the sights and sounds of this remarkable city. Ramble through Rome's grand boulevards, shop up a storm on the Via Condotti or perhaps take an Optional Excursion to see Michelangelo's beautiful frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
Day 10: The Ruins Of Pompeii With Sunny Sorrento
Location: Pompeii
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Johanna Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a scenic drive through the vineyards of Frascati into the Campania region where we'll meet a Local Specialist who will share the fascinating story of Pompeii, a city buried in ash and lost for centuries following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. We arrive in the sophisticated seaside retreat of Sorrento this evening where we will spend the night.
Day 11: Sail To Capri Then Onwards To Assisi
Location: Capri
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Casa Leonori
Meals Included: Dinner
Cross the deep blue waters of the Bay of Naples to the beautiful Isle of Capri, ascending by funicular to Capri Town where we will join our Local Specialist for a walking tour. Traveling north, we view the restored Abbey of Monte Cassino, the site of a bloody World War II battle, arriving later in mystical Assisi to view the Basilica of St. Francis featuring spectacular frescoes by Giotto with a Local Specialist.
Day 12: Through Tuscany To Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Grand Mediterraneo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Beautiful Tuscan and Umbrian landscapes that have inspired painters and poets for centuries follow our journey to Florence, the 'Cradle of the Renaissance'. We join a Local Specialist on an included walking tour to see the city's spectacular heritage, architecture and open-air art, including views of the marble Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio. Visit the Piazza della Signoria, Florence’s political hub centuries ago, and learn about the quality and workmanship of one of this city's historic industries at a demonstration of Florentine leathercraft.
Day 13: Uncover Pisa, Monaco And The French Riviera
Location: Monaco
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Novotel Aéroport Cap 3000
Meals Included: Dinner
Journey to Pisa and its Square of Miracles to see the Leaning Tower and its imposing Baptistery. Leaving the sights, sounds and flavors of Italy behind, we visit the playground of Monaco and view the Royal Palace before arriving on the French Riviera.
Day 14: Discover Artistic Saint-Paul-De-Vence
Location: Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Novotel Aéroport Cap 3000
Meals Included: Dinner
Tread in the footsteps of famous French actors and artists who for centuries have regarded the medieval town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence as a haven. Spend the afternoon at leisure or perhaps join an Optional Experience to see spectacular views of one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe and pay an aromatic visit to the historic Fragonard perfumery to learn how French fragrances are crafted before trying some specialties from the region at a local restaurant.
Day 15: Journey Through Papal Avignon To Lyon Make Travel Matter
Location: Lyon
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure Center Saxe Lafayette
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Visit what was once the center of Christendom in the Middle Ages, the papal city of Avignon. Here, you will see the Palais des Papes, the Cathedral and famous Pont d'Avignon, which have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about the spiritual significance of this place. You'll travel next to the historically strategic city of Lyon. This is a city that lights up magically at night, so be sure to take to the streets and admire its beauty.
Day 16: Travel Through Burgundy To Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Evergreen Laurel
Meals Included: Dinner
Visit Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, before continuing north to Paris. Our epic European adventure near its end, join your Travel Director and newfound friends for dinner this evening.
Day 17 : Explore Magical Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Evergreen Laurel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Join a Local Specialist to see the sights and sounds of Paris, view Notre Dame Cathedral and enjoy a stroll through the Latin Quarter. After, why not consider joining a cruise along the famous river Seine or a trip to one of the city's most famous cabaret shows revealing French pageantry.
Day 18 : Departure
Location: Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today bid adieu to your fellow travelers and Travel Director at the end of your memorable holiday.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver.
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Accommodation is provided in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted.
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour package.
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
The tour covers all hotel tips, charges, and local taxes.
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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Daily breakfast and up to half of your evening meals are included.
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Travel is provided in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Optional Experiences and free time
The tour offers optional experiences and free time for personal exploration.
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Eurostar high-speed train from Paris to London
The Eurostar high-speed train from Paris to London is included in the tour.
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.
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International Travel
International travel to and from the tour starting point is not included.
Dining Summary
- 9 Dinner (D)
- 17 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury with an air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, enjoy scenic cruises, and experience the Eurostar high-speed train from Paris to London.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels like Mercure City in Amsterdam, Maritim Darmstadt in the Rhineland, and Schweizerhof in Engelberg, offering comfort and convenience throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the Venice visit?
In Venice, you will witness the centuries-old tradition of Venetian glassmaking, which is a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This helps preserve the strong tradition of glassblowing for which Venice is famous. You will also board a private launch for a journey through the canals to St. Mark's Square.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Vatican City?
During the visit to Vatican City, a Local Specialist will guide you through St. Peter's Basilica to see Michelangelo's sorrowful Pietà . You will also explore Ancient Rome, including the mighty Colosseum and views of Circus Maximus.
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What activities are planned in Lucerne?
In Lucerne, you will explore the city, pay tribute at the Lion Monument, and admire the Chapel Bridge. You will have leisure time to join an optional experience up one of the nearby peaks for panoramic views.
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What is the 'Be My Guest' experience in Innsbruck?
The 'Be My Guest' experience in Innsbruck includes enjoying a traditional Tyrolean lunch with a local family, surrounded by spectacular scenery in the Tyrolean countryside.
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What highlights are included in the visit to Florence?
In Florence, you will join a Local Specialist for a walking tour to see the city's heritage, including views of the marble Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio. You will also visit the Piazza della Signoria and learn about Florentine leathercraft.
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What can I do during the free time in Paris?
During your free time in Paris, you can consider joining a cruise along the Seine River or attend one of the city's famous cabaret shows to experience French pageantry.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar 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.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar 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.
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Terms and Conditions