Day 01: Start of tour in Rome – Venice
Welcome to Rome! Embark on a scenic journey to Venice with your tour leader. In the “Floating City,” enjoy an orientation walk, savor local gelato, and explore St. Mark’s Square, Grand Canal, and Rialto Bridge. The evening is yours to relish authentic Italian cuisine at local restaurants. Opt for a gondola or water taxi excursion to experience Venice from the enchanting canals!

Day 02: Innsbruck – Munich – Bavaria
Goodbye, Italy! Head north for stunning scenery on the way to Germany. Cross the Brenner Pass into Innsbruck, Austria, with an orientation tour and a visit to the Swarovski store. Continue to Munich, the capital of Bavaria, for an orientation tour and a taste of authentic beer culture with dinner in a traditional beer hall. Cheers!

Day 03: Bavaria – Rhine Valley
Explore more of Germany today as you head towards the majestic Rhine River. Enjoy a scenic Rhine riverboat cruise with breathtaking views of castles, villages, hills, and vineyards. Conclude the cruise with a visit to a local wine merchant for an included wine tasting, where you can learn about local varietals and, if conditions permit, try eiswein (ice wine), a rare dessert wine harvested in below-freezing temperatures!

Day 04: Rhine Valley – Amsterdam
Goodbye, Germany! The journey continues to the Netherlands. Experience iconic Dutch products in the countryside – cheese, clogs, and windmills. Stop at the Riekermolen windmill for photos and enjoy a cheese and clog-making display. Check into the hotel in Amsterdam and embark on a twilight canal cruise to admire the city’s vibrant architecture. Dinner at a local restaurant, and the evening is yours to explore Amsterdam.

Day 05: Amsterdam – Ghent – Paris
Say goodbye to the Netherlands and head to the beautiful Belgian city of Ghent. Explore its well-preserved medieval architecture and pedestrianized city center. Indulge in an authentic Belgian waffle and chocolate. Continue to Paris, the ‘City of Lights,’ and enjoy a driving tour of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. Wrap up the day with an included group dinner in the city.

Day 06: Paris: Free Day
Enjoy a full free day in Paris to explore on your own or join an optional full-day excursion, which includes a macaron tasting, a River Seine lunch cruise, visits to a famous perfumery, the Champs-Élysées, and more! In the evening, consider exploring Montmartre or watching a cabaret show, like the famous Moulin Rouge. Optional excursions for unforgettable experiences!

Day 07: Paris – Burgundy – Swiss Alps
Bid farewell to Paris and explore Burgundy, a picturesque winemaking region. Visit Beaune to discover the historic Hospices de Beaune or savor local wines. After free time for lunch, embark on a scenic drive into Switzerland, surrounded by the stunning Swiss Alps. Check into your accommodation and enjoy an included dinner at the hotel tonight.

Day 08: Swiss Alps: Free Day
Today, enjoy a full day in the Swiss Alps. Consider taking the highly-rated optional excursion to Jungfraujoch, the highest train station in Europe, for breathtaking views and an ice palace experience. Alternatively, explore local villages, shop for souvenirs, or opt for a Swiss fondue dinner to warm up in the evening. Swiss Alps: Free Day
Today, enjoy a full day in the Swiss Alps. Consider taking the highly-rated optional excursion to Jungfraujoch, the highest train station in Europe, for breathtaking views and an ice palace experience. Alternatively, explore local villages, shop for souvenirs, or opt for a Swiss fondue dinner to warm up in the evening.

Day 09: Lake Como – Pisa – Tuscany
Admire the final views of the Swiss Alps and head to Lake Como in Italy. Enjoy free time for lunch, soaking in the picturesque surroundings. Continue to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa for some fun photos. Finally, reach Montecatini Terme, a charming Tuscan spa town. Explore the town or opt for the Evening in Montecatini excursion for a delightful Tuscan dinner.

Day 10: Tuscany – Florence – Rome
After breakfast, journey to Florence, the “Jewel of the Renaissance.” Explore the city on a walking tour with a local guide, discovering its rich history and iconic sights like the Ponte Vecchio. Visit a local leather and gold shop to admire craftsmanship. Enjoy free time or opt for an optional family-style Tuscan lunch. Return to Rome in the evening, and savor an included dinner at the hotel.

Day 11: Rome: Free Day
Explore Rome at your leisure today! Consider joining optional excursions with your tour leader to visit iconic sights like the Trevi Fountain and Pantheon, and enjoy an authentic Italian pasta lunch. Alternatively, wander the city on your own, indulge in gelato, shop, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Italy’s capital.

Day 12: End of tour in Rome
Your 12-day Europe Escape concludes after breakfast today. Exchange details with fellow travelers and consider joining the tour’s Facebook group to stay in touch and relive memories. Safe travels onward!