Essential Europe with London
Overview
Cruising read more through Europe’s breathtaking scenery, captivating architecture, and greatest chapters of history has never been easier as you motor by private water taxi through the Grand Canal of Venice, ride an elevator to the courtyard of a medieval Swiss castle, and board a high-speed train for a scenic journey through the French countryside from Basel to Paris.
PLUS, your tour includes your choice of an excursion in Rome so you can plan your day your way.
Hungry for more of Europe’s essentials? Board the high-speed Eurostar Train to London for fish ’n chips, bangers and mash, and a heaping serving of art, architecture, and fascinating history. 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 Rome!
At 5 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Spend your day your way in Rome
Explore more of Rome with your choice of an included Globus Choice Excursion.
- Rome of the Caesars - Time travel to ancient Rome! Stand in the Colosseum and let your imagination be captured by stories of gladiator games and emperor reigns. Delve deeper into the Rome of the Caesars with a guided walk through the Roman Forum, once the beating heart of the Roman Empire; see the Palatine Hill considered to be the birthplace of Rome.
- The Papal City - Explore the Papal City for a guided visit of the extensive Vatican Museums. Lift your eyes to the heavens in the Sistine Chapel to marvel at Michelangelo's masterpiece ceiling fresco, then continue to St. Peter's Square to see the breathtaking St. Peter's Basilica. Stroll along the Via della Conciliazione to admire Castel Sant'Angelo, the former Papal Fortress.
Free time this afternoon and evening to explore more.* For operational reasons, schedule changes to the Rome program cannot be excluded.
Fine Art in Firenze
Leave the hustle and bustle of Rome behind as you relax for a scenic drive past the olive groves and vineyards that extend over the rolling green hills of Umbria and Tuscany. Arrive in Florence, one of Italy's most celebrated cities. Meet your Local Guide for a visit of the Academy of Fine Arts, to see Michelangelo's David statue, followed by a walk through the historic center, stopping to admire and learn more about the cathedral, Giotto's Bell Tower, the massive bronze doors of the Baptistry's “Gates of Paradise,” and the sculptures of Signoria Square. This afternoon enjoy free time to explore more of Florence “La Bella.”
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Those lucky enough to visit the Tuscan capital are witness to some of the world's most magnificent art. Home to a wealth of Renaissance masterpieces, Florence is famous for Michelangelo's marble masterpiece, David, standing ready for battle in the Academy of Fine Arts. Outside, the Piazza del Duomo and Signoria Square offer spectacular sights of Florentine Gothic and Renaissance art, architecture, and monuments.
Benvenuti a Venezia
Today, cross the Apennine Mountains and River Po to reach Venice. On arrival, take a private boat ride along the Giudecca Canal. Prepare for breathtaking views as you sail in front of the entrance to St Mark's Square. Disembark for an orientation walk to St. Mark's Square and a noted vetreria to meet a local glassblower and learn how the world-famous Murano glass is created. After some free time to explore independently, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before traveling like a VIP on a private water taxi ride along the Grand Canal.
LOCAL FAVORITE - Cruise along Venice's iconic Grand Canal in a private water taxi and immerse yourself in the city from its most elegant perspective. With stunning palaces, hidden corners, and breathtaking views around every turn, it's one of the most exciting and memorable ways to experience the magic of the city.
Spectacular Switzerland
Today, leave Italy and cross the border into Switzerland. Arrive in Bellinzona and take the elevator to the Courtyard of Castelgrande where you will savor a light lunch of local specialties accompanied by Merlot wine, for which the Ticino area is famous. Later, en route to Lucerne, enjoy the stunning mountain scenery of the Swiss Alps, interrupted only by the St. Gotthard Road Tunnel.
LOCAL FAVORITE - Ride the elevator to the Courtyard of Castelgrande, high on the hills above Bellinzona. Part of the fortification dates back to the Middle Ages; today it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views and try out local specialties and the delicious Merlot wine for which the area is famous.
Sweet Sights of Switzerland
This morning, join a walking tour to see the highlights of Lucerne. Stop to admire the Lion Monument, a moving rock relief that Mark Twain called “the saddest and most moving piece of rock in the world,” and the 14th-century Chapel Bridge that crosses the River Reuss from the Altstadt (Old Town). The rest of the day and evening are free for you to get better acquainted with this alpine gem.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Serenity is found in a gaze across the stunning panoramas of the Swiss Alps above the lovely city of Lucerne. Spend time at leisure with a stroll through its magnificent medieval streets and around the peaceful alpine lake.
French Connection
Drive to the medieval city of Basel, the Swiss city located on the French and German borders and straddling the River Rhine. Board a high-speed TGV train to Paris. Relax and watch the French countryside pass by. Arrive in Paris this afternoon, giving you plenty of time to get acquainted with this iconic city.
*For operational reasons, changes to the Paris program cannot be excluded.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Gliding across the French countryside at warp speed is an experience to write home about. Pass by the rows of vineyards on your way from Basel to Paris and get in the mood for the wine and song awaiting in the City of Light.
C'est Magnifique in the City of Light
The morning is yours to either explore independently or join an optional excursion. Your sightseeing this afternoon is composed of a guided walk to discover one of Paris's iconic quarters. Later, enjoy dinner cruise on the River Seine, with incredible sights of celebrated landmarks.*
*For operational reasons, changes to the Paris program cannot be excluded.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - 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 tranquility of the Seine River to the tempting treats in a corner café, your heart is sure to be captured by France's captivating City of Light.
Just in Time for Tea
Say au revoir to Paris as you board the high-speed Eurostar Train to London, arriving in the afternoon. Uniformed Globus Hosts will be waiting to welcome you. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to start discovering some of London's many attractions.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - 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 undersea tunnel in the world in comfort with speeds of up to 186 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. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening. Why not try a typical pub lunch, take a stroll along the Thames, or explore one of the Royal Parks?
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - 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 services have been held here, including Queen Victoria's jubilees, several 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.
Trip Inclusions
- Globus Choice Excursion in Rome − included in your tour with your choice of a guided walking tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo's celebrated frescoes, or a guided walking tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum, where the story of Ancient Rome comes to life
- Guided walking tour in Florence includes a visit to the Galleria dell'Accademia to see Michelangelo's David statue, one of the world's greatest masterpieces of Renaissance sculpture
- Private Venice Canal boat ride, orientation walk, and glass blowing demonstration, experiencing the city's iconic waterways and centuries-old artisan traditions
- [LF] Dinner at a local Venice restaurant followed by a private water-taxi ride along the Grand Canal, admiring the city's illuminated palaces from the water
- Visit the [LF] Courtyard of Castelgrande for a light lunch paired with wine, enjoying regional specialties at the UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking Bellinzona
- Walking tour of Lucerne, see the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge, two of Switzerland's best-loved historic landmarks
- Guided walking tour in Paris to discover one of Paris's iconic quarters, exploring its distinctive character and historic charm
- Scenic dinner cruise on the Seine River, taking in Paris's celebrated landmarks from the water
- Guided sightseeing of London includes St. Paul's Cathedral
- Ride high speed trains from Basel to Paris, and from Paris to London
- 10 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinner
- Rome: Radisson Blu Rome (First-Class):
Radisson Blu Rome is situated just a few minutes away from Via Veneto & the city's historic center. It has 285 sophisticated, air-conditioned rooms, all fully equipped with an LED TV, Free Wi-Fi, a minibar, desk and a bathroom furnished with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Classic Mediterranean delicacies, an aperitivo or a glass of Champagne can be enjoyed on the stylish 7th floor roof restaurant and bar and there is also a fitness room. - Florence: Grand Hotel Mediterraneo (First-Class):
Modern hotel situated on the banks of the river Arno, steps away from the city center. The Duomo and Palazzo Pitti are nearby. - Florence: Una Hotel Vittoria (First-Class):
This is a contemporary designed hotel located in the historic San Frediano district, offering a peaceful retreat and just a short distance from the bustling heart of Florence. This hotel offers a tranquil setting while still being conveniently close to the Arno River and the city center and boasts a stylish and modern design, evident in its common areas. All 84 air-conditioned guest rooms, designed with a focus on comfort and style, are equipped with modern amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Savor the chef's delicious Tuscan and international cuisine in the in-site restaurant, or sip on a cocktail in the lounge bar or courtyard. - Venice: Belstay Venezia Mestre (Tourist Class):
Just minutes from Venice, Belstay Venezia Mestre offers modern comfort. Its stylish 94 superior rooms are perfect for leisure travelers, these are spread across four floors, each equipped with en'suite bathrooms, air conditioning, smart TVs, minibars, and Free Wi'Fi . Guests can enjoy on-site dining and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. - Venice: Leonardo Royal Venice Mestre (First-Class):
The Leonardo Royal Venice Mestre, with its 244 rooms and suites, is the perfect place to enjoy a visit to the amazing city of Venice or organise your business trips and meetings. The hotel is just a few steps from Mestre railway station, from where you can easily get to to the city's highlights. Its modern rooms are airconditioned and provide a desk, a minibar and a private bathroom. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi. Guests can also make use of the business center, work out at the gym or relax in the bar. - 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. - Paris: Les Jardins du Marais (Superior First-Class):
In the centre of Paris, with 263 rooms and a tranquil garden, this delightful property is composed of nine 19th-century buildings and has 'small village' charm. Facilities include a restaurant, a bar/lounge, a fitness room and Free Wi-Fi access. - 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, schedule changes to the Paris and Rome programs cannot be excluded.
- For small group departures, Paris city sightseeing is on Day 7 instead of Day 8.
- Services of the Tour Director end on Day 9. London portion includes services of a local host.
- 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 occasion this luggage may arrive in the evening. We therefore suggest keeping a few essential personal items in your hand luggage. Conditions apply.
Don't waste your precious time qeuing up, skip the lines with special VIP access at the must-see sites. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of the destination. Read more
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Globus picks hotels picked on their centralised location, so you'll stay right in the heart of the destination. Read more
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Dates & Pricing
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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 Enquire. 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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