Overview
All of your senses will perk up as you leisurely cruise along Amsterdam’s bridge-covered...read more canals, dreamily float down the romantic Rhine, and journey through Germany’s picturesque Black Forest, Burgundy’s rolling green vineyards, and the white-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps. Along the way, you can expect a heaped helping of cities and villages, castles and palaces, and hand-carved cuckoo clocks to enhance your time in the most remarkable regions of Europe. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Beaune so you can plan your day your way.
Hungry for more European adventure? Board the high-speed Eurostar Train to London for fish ‘n’ chips, bangers and mash, and bubble and squeak. When you add a 2-day London extension to your tour of Europe, we’ll also serve up guided sightseeing and plenty of optional excursions to make the most of your visit.
Itinerary
Welcome to Amsterdam!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Holland Days
This morning, meet your Local Guide for a fascinating introduction to Amsterdam. At the pier board a glass-topped boat to admire Amsterdam from a different perspective as you cruise along the elegant, UNESCO-listed grachten (canals). See the most captivating views of “Golden Age” homes, landmark buildings, and charming bridges. Later, visit a Diamond Center to learn why Amsterdam is often called the “diamond capital of the world.” Free time this afternoon and evening to explore more. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: There's nowhere quite like Amsterdam! A vibrant city with an impressive artistic heritage, and a fascinating infrastructure. The city is built on about 11 million wooden poles and criss-crossed by over 165 canals. In addition, it boasts a vast network of cycle lanes frequented by the city's 881 000 bicycles, Amsterdam is so bike-friendly that the bicycles outnumber the residents!
Tradition on Tap in Heidelberg
Drive across the border into Germany. A real treat awaits with a scenic cruise on the River Rhine, one of Europe's most important rivers, flowing through six countries. Admire castles, vineyards, and charming villages as you sail down the river. On disembarkation, continue your journey to Heidelberg. Take photos of the red-walled castle ruins and enjoy dinner with a beer at the Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg restaurant. (B/D) 329 mi / 530 km.
LOCAL FAVORITE - LOCAL TASTES: Lift a glass of German beer in Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg brauhaus. Enjoy the famous tastes of Germany in this elegant and rustic beer house where hospitality is served in the heart of the brewery, along with legendary beers – both traditional and modern.
With Cherries on Top
This morning head to the Black Forest to enjoy some local traditions. Watch a traditional woodcarving demonstration followed by a delicious helping of Kaffee und Schwarzwaldkuchen (coffee and Black Forest Cake). Later, drive over the border into Switzerland and stop to admire the breathtaking Rhine Falls. Continue to Lucerne and join a walking tour to see the city highlights including the Bourbaki Panorama, the Lion Monument and the 14th century Chapel Bridge that crosses the River Reuss from the Altstadt (old town). (B/D) 230 mi / 370 km.
LOCAL FAVORITE - CULTURAL GEM: A monumental panorama, a piece of European cultural heritage, and a symbol of Switzerland's humanitarian tradition - the Bourbaki Panorama brings together a multitude of stories. It commemorates the internment of 87000 soldiers of the French Bourbaki army, who fled Switzerland in the harsh winter of 1871. Painted by the artist Edouard Castres who personally witnessed the internment as a Red Cross worker and put his feelings on display in a most impressive way in 1881. A true journey back to the time in which Switzerland and its self-image were formed in the service of humanity, tolerance, and human rights.
Sweet Sights of Switzerland
A whole day to do as you please. Explore more on your own and get better acquainted with this alpine gem or join an optional excursion up one of the mighty mountains that surround it. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: What better way to spend this free day than with an excursion to the top of Mt Pilatus? Ascend via the world's steepest cogwheel railway passing the exquisite alpine meadows and dramatic rock formations. Take in spectacular views of central Switzerland. Feel on top of the world because you are! Send a yodel across the Swiss peaks in the tradition of mountaineers of old.
Spend your day your way in Beaune
Leave Switzerland behind as you enter France. En-route to Beaune, enjoy a scenic drive through Burgundy with its vineyards and châteaux.
Explore more of Beaune with your choice of included Globus Choice Excursions.
- All Aboard in Beaune - All aboard the "Petit Train Touristique" for a relaxing orientation ride through the charming medieval town of Beune. Hear insightful commentary on local landmarks, including the beautifully preserved Hôtel Dieu, the church of Notre-Dame, the Square des Lions, Pont des Oies, and more aboard the little electric train!
- Cellar Sips and Savory Bits - They say there are over 100 kilometers of wine cellars beneath Beaune! As the center of the region's wine trade for over 2,000 years, it's no wonder. Go deeper into Burgundy's wine capital with a guided visit to a local wine cellar, with wine tasting and culinary bites. Santé!
Free time this evening. (B) 236 mi / 380 km.
Château of Kings & Queens
Prepare to be amazed by the opulence when you stop at the Palace of Versailles en route to Paris. Explore the elegant Baroque gardens on your own before meeting your Local Guide or a walk through some of the palace's incredible rooms including the State Apartments and the Hall of Mirrors. Arrive in Paris later this afternoon giving you plenty of time to get acquainted with this iconic city. * (B) 208 mi / 335 km.
* For operational reasons, changes to the Paris program cannot be excluded.TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LEGENDS SLEPT HERE: When it comes to the Palace of Versailles, opulent is an understatement! This converted hunting lodge boasts 2300 rooms adorned in 17th century gilded French décor. Kings, Queens, and Emperors have called it home! Now a world- famous museum that promises its visitors a breathtaking experience.
C'est Magnifique in the City of Light
This morning, your guided sightseeing is composed of an orientation drive and a scenic cruise on the River Seine with incredible views of celebrated landmarks including Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore more independently or join an optional excursion. Later, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. * (B/D)
*For operational reasons, changes to the Paris program cannot be excluded.TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CITY SIGHTS: As the song goes, we love Paris in the springtime; we love Paris in the fall - but no matter the season, we fall in love anytime we visit the most romantic city in the world. From the tempting shops of the Champs-Élysées to the irresistible charms of a corner café, your hearts are set on sharing France's captivating City of Light any time you please.
Just in Time for Tea
Say “au revoir” to Paris as you board the high-speed Eurostar Train to London. Arriving in the afternoon a uniformed Globus Host will be waiting to welcome you. Free time this afternoon and evening to start discovering some of London's many attractions. (B) Today's Distance: 305 mi / 492 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Take the fast train to London on the Eurostar - the only high-speed rail directly linking the UK to France. Since 1994, passengers have been whisked through the longest section of underwater tunnel in the world in comfort with speeds up to 200 mph.
London Calling
Morning sightseeing with a Local Guide includes sights of the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall, the Prime Minister's Downing Street residence, Piccadilly Circus, Buckingham Palace, and a visit to St. Paul's Cathedral. Free time this afternoon and evening, why not try a typical pub lunch or take a stroll along the Thames or in one of the Royal Parks. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HISTORIC SPOTS: England's national treasure of St. Paul's Cathedral is home to a spectacular array of art – from delicate carvings to gilded dome murals and modern works of art. As the seat of the Bishop of London, the cathedral serves as the mother church of the Diocese of London, where notable remembrances have been served here, including Queen Victoria's jubilee, birthdays of Queen Elizabeth II, and funerals of luminaries like Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Guided Amsterdam canal cruise and Diamond Center visit
- Scenic cruise on the Rhine River scenic cruise
- [LF] Dinner and beer at the Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg
- [LF] Woodcarving demonstration in the Black Forest includes a slice of Black Forest Cake
- Photo opportunity at the Rhine Falls.
- Walking tour of Lucerne includes the [LF] Bourbaki Panorama, Lion Monument, and Chapel Bridge
- Globus Choice Excursion in Beaune – included in your tour with your choice of an orientation ride around the main landmarks on the "petit train electrique" or a guided visit and wine tasting in a Burgundy wine cellar
- Guided visit to the Palace of Versailles
- Guided sightseeing in Paris includes an orientation drive and a scenic Seine River cruise
- Guided sightseeing of London includes St. Paul's Cathedral.
- High-speed Eurostar train between Paris and London
- 10 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners
- Amsterdam: Westcord Art Hotel Amsterdam (First-Class):
WestCord Art Hotel Amsterdam is a modern hotel with 195 rooms, located next to the Westerpark and within walking distance of the city center of Amsterdam. The Art Brasserie restaurant features a terrace, and the hotel also offers a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property. Each guestroom features a unique piece of art above the bed, adding a creative touch to the stay. - Heidelberg: NH Collection Heidelberg (First-Class):
NH Heidelberg is located in the center of Heidelberg, perfect for getting to know one of Germany's most lovely and romantic cities and the Rhine-Neckar Metropolitan Region. Heidelberg is famous for its science and research activities, history, high-profile companies, and elite universities. - Heidelberg: Atlantic Hotel Heidelberg (First-Class):
This stylish 310 room hotel is located close to Heidelberg's main train station offering easy access to the city's old town. The bright air-conditioned guest rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, parquet flooring, coffee/tea-making facilities, in-room safety deposit box and a mini fridge. The 15 High Restaurant & Bar on the top floor combines an urban seafood and grill concept with a rooftop bar offering spectacular views of Heidelberg and the region beyond. Other amenities include a spa, wellness center and fitness room. Free Wi-Fi internet access is available throughout the property. - Lucerne: Grand Hotel Europe (First-Class):
A classical 19th century 169 room property. This hotel offers a wonderful contrast of old charm with modern interior design and has a beautiful garden to enhance your stay. Wi-Fi access is available throughout the hotel with a fee (payable locally). The main dining room is opulently decorated serving traditional Swiss dishes and there is also a lounge and terrace area with a bar service. - Beaune: Henry II (First-Class):
Located in the wine region of Burgundy, this 58-room hotel is set in a building designated as an historical monument and features a beautiful garden terrace. All soundproofed guestrooms are individually designed and are equipped with a TV, minibar, and free Wi-Fi access, and private bathrooms that include a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy a drink in the hotel bar after a day of sightseeing whilst local wineries, restaurants, and museums can all be found just a short stroll away from the property. - Paris: Paris Marriott Rive Gauche (Superior First-Class):
Located on the Left Bank near to the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Pres. The warmly decorated air-conditioned rooms have a mini-fridge, tea and coffee maker, and free Wi-Fi. There is a restaurant, bar / lounge the serves traditional French cuisine, coffee and cocktails. Other amenities include a gym. - London: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge (Superior First-Class):
Situated opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge places guests at the heart of central London. Dining option include Brasserie Joël, Ichi Sushi & Sashimi, 1WB Lounge & Patisserie, and Primo Bar. The hotel also boasts a fitness center with a 15-meter pool and Mandara Spa. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the hotel. - London: Park Plaza Waterloo (Superior First-Class):
The 494-room property is situated within walking distance of top London attractions, including the London Eye, the London Dungeons and the Imperial War Museum. The Florentine Restaurant serves a Brasserie-style menu; the bar features the best of British bubbles and craft beers as well as a range of signature cocktails; and for a relaxing cup of coffee, head to the illy Caffè bar. The hotel also boasts a fitness centre and a heated swimming pool. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the hotel.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- For operational reasons, changes to the Paris program cannot be excluded.
- We encourage all guests to prebook their preferred included Globus Choice Excursions to ensure your selection is available. If your preference is not selected 35 days prior to departure, we will select a Choice excursion on your behalf based on availability.
- To make your Eurostar train journey more comfortable between Paris and London, one piece of luggage per person will be transferred between one hotel and another, to your destination hotel using a luggage transfer service. We cannot guarantee that this luggage will arrive at the hotel at the same time as you; traffic, the border crossing, and other logistical issues can delay it. On occasions this luggage may arrive in the evening, we therefore suggest keeping a few essential personal items in your hand luggage. Conditions apply.
- Services of the Tour Director end on Day 9. London portion includes services of a local host.
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Globus Worldwide (2025-26)
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Globus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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