European Getaway
Day 01: Welcome to Rome! Once you’ve met your guide and fellow travelers, we’ll set off on our journey to Venice. Relax and take in the views as we travel. Upon reaching Venice, also known as the “Floating City,” follow your guide for a brief tour. Treat yourself to some delicious gelato and marvel at the sights of St. Mark’s Square, the Grand Canal, and the Rialto Bridge. The evening offers free time to indulge in Italy’s culinary wonders, with numerous outstanding eateries and bars at your disposal. For a unique experience, consider taking a gondola or water taxi ride to discover Venice’s charm from its famous canals!
Day 02: Goodbye, for now, Italy! As we venture north towards Germany, prepare for breathtaking landscapes. Cross the awe-inspiring Brenner Pass to reach Innsbruck, Austria, where you’ll be treated to a guided introduction of the city set against a stunning mountainous backdrop. Don’t miss the chance to explore the renowned Swarovski store. Our journey continues to Munich, the heart of Bavaria, for another insightful orientation tour. Discover a city reborn from the ashes of WW2, rich in both historic and contemporary charm, and the birthplace of the legendary Oktoberfest. Cap off the day with a traditional dinner in a classic beer hall, raising a glass of local brew to celebrate our travels. Cheers to new experiences!
Day 03: Embark on today’s German escapade, heading to the splendid Rhine River. Embark on a riverboat journey through the Rhine Valley, cruising to tonight’s lodging while soaking in breathtaking views. The region is renowned for its dense array of castles, charming villages, undulating hills, and vineyards, boasting Europe’s highest concentration of fortresses. After disembarking, enjoy a visit to a local vintner for a complimentary wine-tasting session. Discover the nuances of local wines and sample eiswein (ice wine), a rare dessert wine made from grapes harvested in frosty conditions, if the weather permits.
Day 04: Goodbye Germany, hello the Netherlands! Our journey today leads us into the heart of Dutch culture, showcasing its quintessential cheese, clogs, and windmills. We’ll pause at the renowned Riekermolen windmill for a photo op. Next up, a lively demonstration of cheese and clog production awaits. Post check-in at our Amsterdam hotel, we’ll set off for an enchanting evening canal cruise through Amsterdam’s bustling waterways, where an audio guide will illuminate the city’s architectural marvels and landmarks. Dinner follows at a cozy local eatery, with the night yours to discover Amsterdam’s wonders at leisure.
Day 05: Say goodbye to the Netherlands and venture towards the captivating Belgian gem, Ghent. This picturesque port city boasts immaculately preserved medieval structures and a charming pedestrian-friendly downtown. Indulge in the delights of an original Belgian waffle and treat yourself to exquisite Belgian chocolate. Next stop: Paris, the enchanting ‘City of Lights’! Experience a guided drive through Paris’s iconic landmarks, including the majestic Eiffel Tower and the historic Arc de Triomphe. After exploring must-see attractions, relish a group dinner included in your itinerary.
Day 06: Experience a liberating day to immerse yourself in the charms of Paris! Delve into the city’s treasures solo or opt for a guided adventure. Discover Parisian delights like indulging in macarons, cruising the Seine for lunch, exploring renowned perfumeries, strolling down the Champs-Élysées, and beyond. As night falls, consider a captivating visit to Montmartre, where the iconic Moulin Rouge awaits, or indulge in a thrilling cabaret performance. These optional escapades promise lasting memories!
Day 07: Bid farewell to the charm of Paris and embark on a new adventure in Burgundy, renowned for its exquisite wines. Explore the quaint town of Beaune, where you can delve into the rich history of Hospices de Beaune or savor the flavors of local wines. After a leisurely lunch break, hop back on board for a picturesque journey into Switzerland. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Swiss Alps, where you’ll spend two nights surrounded by breathtaking beauty. Relax and unwind at the hotel with an included dinner tonight.
Day 08: Today beckons with a full day to explore the enchanting Swiss Alps! Seize the chance to embark on one of Expat Explore’s top-rated optional excursions. Ascend to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s loftiest train station, and revel in breathtaking vistas during the scenic train or gondola journey. At the summit, immerse yourself in endless photo ops, frolic in perpetual snow, and marvel at the ethereal ice palace sculpted within a glacier! Alternatively, delve into local villages or indulge in souvenir shopping. As night falls, consider indulging in an optional Swiss fondue dinner to warm up.
Day 09: Witness the breathtaking Swiss Alps for one last time before journeying towards Italy this morning. Begin your day with a visit to the exquisite Lake Como, where you’ll have ample time to savor lunch amidst stunning surroundings. Marvel at the pristine waters of the lake and the charming villages nestled among the mountains. Next, venture to Italy’s iconic landmark, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, for some memorable snapshots at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conclude your day at Montecatini Terme, a picturesque Tuscan spa town, where you can opt to further explore or indulge in a delightful Tuscan dinner with the Evening in Montecatini optional excursion.
Day 10: Following breakfast, set out for Florence, an enchanting city renowned as “the Gem of the Renaissance”! Upon arrival, engage in a guided walking expedition through the city, led by a knowledgeable local. Unveil its captivating history and behold prominent landmarks such as the Ponte Vecchio and a replica of the David statue! Next, delve into a nearby boutique specializing in leather and gold, where you can admire the craftsmanship of skilled local artisans. Subsequently, indulge in some leisure time for further exploration or opt for a delectable family-style Tuscan lunch to savor local flavors. Conclude the day’s adventure by returning to Rome, where an included dinner awaits at the hotel in the evening.
Day 11: Discover the charms of the “Eternal City” to the fullest today! Unsure of where to begin? Opt for one of the available excursions. Conquer Rome alongside your guide to behold its renowned landmarks like the Trevi Fountain and Pantheon, followed by a delightful Italian pasta lunch. Alternatively, embark on a solo exploration of the city. Indulge in gelato, indulge in some retail therapy, or simply revel in the vibrant ambiance of Italy’s bustling capital.
Day 12: As your 12-day European journey concludes with breakfast today, don’t forget to swap contact information with your fellow adventurers! Keep the memories alive by joining the tour’s Facebook group, where you can reminisce together. Safe travels ahead from Expat Explore!