The best of European sightseeing; explore Gothic cathedrals, medieval castles, fairytale forests, roaring waterfalls and sprawling vineyards

Tour Europe from Amsterdam to Cologne, through the Rhine Valley, the Black Forest, Lucerne and Burgundy and end in Paris – the glittering prize on your journey of European discovery

Visit the Louvre, Champs Elysees and Notre Dame and climb Paris’ Eiffel Tower for stunning views across this elegant city

Arrive Amsterdam

Welcome to Amsterdam! Relax and unwind after check-in or take a leisurely stroll through this unique city. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers this evening for an orientation of the city followed by a Welcome Reception on a scenic canal cruise including dinner and welcome drinks.

Meal(s): (Welcome Reception)

Hotel: Mercure Amsterdam City 

Day 2

Amsterdam, Rhine Cruise, Heidelberg

Travel via Arnhem to the Rhine Valley. Relax as you cruise along the River Rhine past terraced vineyards and medieval castles to St. Goar. Pass the famous Lorelei Rock, named after a mermaid who lured fishermen to their deaths with her mesmerising song. In Heidelberg, view the red sandstone castle, one of the most important architectural structures north of the Alps, which towers above Germany’s oldest university town.

Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)

Hotel: Holiday Inn Mannheim City Centre

Day 3

Rhineland, Scaffhausen, Lucerne (2 nights)

Drive into the enchanting Black Forest and stop for a cuckoo clock making demonstration. Visit the dramatic Rhine Falls at Schaffhausen, which is the largest waterfall in Europe. Later arrive in Switzerland with its alpine scenery and enjoy magnificent views across Lake Lucerne.

Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)

Hotel: Astoria 

Day 4

Lucerne Orienatation and free time

Walk across the 14th century Chapel Bridge on your morning orientation. View the solemn Lion Monument, commemorating the massacre of Swiss Guards in 1792. Spend the afternoon shopping in the old town for Swiss chocolates. Consider an excursion up a local mountain for panoramic views, or enjoy the fresh Alpine air by taking a leisurely walk beside the beautiful lake

Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast)

Day 5

Lucerne, Burgundy, Wine region and Paris (2 nights)

See the changing landscape as you travel into France, through Alsace and across the Maginot Line. Continue through the Burgundy countryside – one of the country’s main wine producing regions, famous for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grape varieties. This evening you may decide to take an optional to see a famous Parisian Cabaret.

Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast)

Hotel: Renaissance La Defense

Day 6

Paris Sightseeing and free time

Your Local Guide shows you the sights, including views of Notre Dame Cathedral, the Champs Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe and the magnificent Opera House, designed by Charles Garnier and opened in 1875. Ascend to the second level of the Eiffel Tower by elevator and view the city in all its glory. Spend the afternoon as you wish. Perhaps take an excursion to visit the Louvre. Celebrate in the evening with your fellow travellers at a Farewell Dinner in a local restaurant.

Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast / Farewell Dinner)

Day 7

Depart Paris

Say ‘au revoir’ to your Travel Director and new-found friends at the end of a memorable holiday.

Meal(s): (Buffet Breakfast)

View European Highlights Tour here

Travel Editor
Best Value Tours: Sightseeing at its best!
www.BestValueTours.co.uk