Overview
Discoveries
4 Star
Premium
5-99 Years
52
Fully Guided
ETRA
Itinerary
All the highlights of Europe lie ahead on this epic journey from the Netherlands to Austria, Italy to France. Spend the day exploring Amsterdam on foot, by bike or tram.
Later, meet your Travel Director and travel companions and board a glass-topped boat for a Welcome Reception canal cruise, including a light dinner and a drink as you navigate the city's labyrinthine canals lined with centuries-old gabled façades. (D) Stay: Mercure City
Travel east, crossing the border into Germany bound for Cologne. Here, you'll see the iconic twin spires of its imposing Cathedral, said to be the final resting place of the Three Wise Men. Cruise along the mighty Rhine, lined with medieval villages and castles that cling to the hills. This evening, you'll stay in the Rhine Valley and enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B/D) Stay: Maritim Darmstadt
The imposing ruins of Heidelberg Castle feature on our drive through this vibrant university city en route to the quaint medieval town of Colmar. Here we will enjoy an orientation stroll and free time for lunch. Our journey continues through the picturesque vineyards of Alsace en route to our hotel in the stunning mountain retreat of Engelberg, with a free evening to enjoy the town. (B/D) Stay: Schweizerhof
Spend the day exploring Lucerne. Pay tribute to the Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending Louise XVI during the French Revolution at the mournful Lion Monument, then admire the splendour of the flower-lined Chapel Bridge with its 17th-century paintings.
Spend the rest of the day at leisure or consider joining an Optional Experience up one of the nearby peaks for spectacular panoramic views before returning to Engelberg. (B)
Admire rugged alpine scenery en route to the Principality of Liechtenstein, stopping in its capital, Vaduz. Cross the Austrian border and continue along the Arlberg route for a journey filled with pinch-me moments. Snow-capped mountains surround you as you travel through the stunning scenery of the Tyrol.
Enjoy the Tyrolean countryside while you Connect With Locals over lunch at a Be My Guest experience before arriving in Innsbruck. Visit the Old Town where you'll see the famous Golden Roof completed in 1500 for Emperor Maximilian I to mark his wedding. Admire the fascinating crystal installations and browse for precious gifts and souvenirs at the Swarovski Crystal Worlds Store. (B/L) Stay: Grauer Bär
Cross the extraordinary Europa Bridge, rising almost 200 metres above the Wipp Valley, following the Brenner Pass past alpine pastures and pine-clad peaks into Italy and the magical island city of Venice. Spend this evening at leisure, gliding by gondola through the city's canals, enjoying a Campari spritz in a quiet piazza or watching the sun set over the romantic Grand Canal. (B/D) Stay: Albergo Quattro Fontane Lido
Witness the centuries-old tradition of Venetian glassmaking. This is a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience which helps to preserve the strong tradition of glassblowing for which Venice is justifiably famous. You'll learn how the talented master craftsmen use the same techniques their forefathers did to create the delicate artworks which adorn homes worldwide, perhaps inspiring you to buy a souvenir to remind you of this special visit.
Later, board a private launch for your journey through the canals of Venice to St. Mark's Square where you'll gain a deeper understanding of the city's centuries-old history and view the ornate Doge's Palace and Bridge of Sighs. Spend the afternoon exploring Venice your way, which could mean finding a tucked away bacaro to soak up some of the local atmosphere, a cruise around the lagoon or zigzagging up the Le Mercerie shopping street. (B)
Travel over the green and golden landscapes of the Apennine hills through beautiful Tuscany and Umbria, arriving in Rome where you'll spend the next two nights. This evening is yours to embrace la dolce vita. Relax in the Piazza Navona with an espresso, sit on the Spanish Steps or savour a tasty gelato. (B) Stay: Midas Palace
Explore Rome with a Local Specialist who will take you on a sightseeing tour. Cross the Tiber River into Ancient Rome to see the mighty Colosseum where brave gladiators once fought to the applause of exhilarated spectators, then enjoy views of Circus Maximus which once hosted chariot races. The rest of the day is yours to explore the sights and sounds of this remarkable city. (B)
Embark on a scenic drive through the picturesque vineyards of Frascati into the Campania region. Cross the shimmering blue waters of the Bay of Naples to reach the enchanting Isle of Capri.
Upon arrival, ascend by funicular to Capri Town, where you'll join your Local Specialist for a walking tour. Cruise to the sophisticated seaside retreat of Sorrento, where you will spend the night, soaking in the beauty of this sophisticated coastal haven. (B/D) Stay: Johanna Park
Continue through the beautiful Campania region, where you'll meet a Local Specialist who will share the fascinating story of Pompeii, a city buried in ash and lost for centuries following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Travelling north see the historic, hilltop Abbey of Monte Cassino, the site of a pivotal and tragic World War II battle, journey through beautiful Tuscan and Umbrian landscapes that have inspired painters and poets for centuries before arriving in Florence. (B/D) Stay: FH55 Grand Hotel Mediterraneo
Wake up in the 'Cradle of the Renaissance'. Join a Local Specialist on an included walking tour to see the city's spectacular heritage, architecture and open-air art, including views of the marble Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio. Visit the Piazza della Signoria, Florence's political hub centuries ago, and learn about the quality and workmanship of one of this city's historic industries at a demonstration of Florentine leathercraft. (B)
Journey to Pisa and its Square of Miracles to see the Leaning Tower and its imposing Baptistery. Leaving the sights, sounds and flavours of Italy behind, we visit the playground of Monaco and view the Royal Palace before arriving on the French Riviera. (B) Stay: Novotel Aéroport Cap 3000
Tread in the footsteps of famous French actors and artists who for centuries have regarded the medieval town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence as a haven. Spend the afternoon at leisure or perhaps join an Optional Experience to see spectacular views of one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe and pay an aromatic visit to the historic Fragonard perfumery to learn how French fragrances are crafted before trying some specialities from the region at a local restaurant. (B)
Visit what was once the centre of Christendom in the Middle Ages, the papal city of Avignon. Here, you will see the Palais des Papes, the Cathedral and famous Pont d'Avignon, which have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about the spiritual significance of this place. You'll travel next to the historically strategic city of Lyon. This is a city that lights up magically at night, so be sure to take to the streets and admire its beauty. (B) Stay: Mercure Centre Saxe Lafayette
Drive through the vineyards and countryside of Burgundy, before continuing north to Paris. This afternoon, explore Paris with your Local Specialist. Wonder at the iconic Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées and magnificent bridges over the river Seine and enjoy a stroll through the Latin Quarter. Perhaps consider joining a cruise along the famous river Seine. (B) Stay: Occidental Levallois
Start your morning at leisure, perhaps stroll along the famous Champs-Élysées and people-watch from a local cafe, or take an Optional Experience to explore the gilded Palace of Versailles. This evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow travellers. (B/D)
Today bid adieu to your fellow travellers and Travel Director at the end of your memorable holiday. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Explore Rome, Capri, Pompeii, Florence and Paris
- Discover Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Colmar, Lucerne, Vaduz - the capital of Liechtenstein, Innsbruck, Venice, Sorrento, Pisa, Monaco, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Avignon and Lyon
- Visit a glassblowing factory in Venice
- See the Lorelei Rock in Rhine Valley and the vineyards of Burgundy
- Cruise through Amsterdam's canals, along the Rhine River, to the Isle of Capri and by private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice
Be My Guest
- Be welcomed to the Albert's home where their family have farmed the land for generations. Enjoy a traditional Tyrolean lunch surrounded by spectacular scenery.
Iconic Experience
- Cologne Cathedral: The towering Cathedral of Cologne is an impressive introduction to this riverside city.
- Rhineland: Cruise beneath the semi-ruined castles and terraced vineyards. Sleepy villages slip by as you saunter upstream to the Lorelei Rock where the enchantress lured sailors to their doom.
- Heidelberg: See the magnificent castle built in red sandstone, overlooking the Student Prince's town.
- Colmar: Join your Travel Director to explore the heart of Colmar, where colourful half-timbered houses, canal-lined lanes and flower-filled squares give the town its storybook charm. As you walk, you'll discover why this Alsatian gem has inspired artists, winemakers and visitors for centuries.
- Lucerne: During an orientation with your Travel Director, see the Lion Monument, Old Town Hall and Chapel Bridge, the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe.
- Vaduz: Explore Vaduz, the capital city of the Principality of Liechtenstein.
- Brenner Pass: Marvel at the stunning beauty of the Brenner Pass on your scenic drive through the Alpine landscape.
- Tuscany: View the stunning landscape of Tuscany on your drive today.
- Rome: Experience Rome through the eyes of a local, as a passionate Roman guides you past the city's most iconic sites.
- Capri: Join a Local Specialist for a guided walk through Capri's elegant lanes and vibrant squares. Hear how this island has long attracted artists, writers and Hollywood icons. Visit historic landmarks and local boutiques, and discover how generations of islanders have lived alongside the glamour, from Roman emperors to the jet-set names of the 1950s and beyond.
- Pompeii: Walk with a Local Specialist through the cobbled streets of this ill-fated town, frozen in time since the 1st century.
- Monte Cassino: See the abbey on Monte Cassino, founded by Saint Benedict in 529.
- Florence: Join a Local Specialist to view the multi-coloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square.
- Florence: See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods, and witness a gold and leatherwork demonstration.
- Pisa: In the Piazza dei Miracoli, see the baptistery, cathedral and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.
- Monaco City: See the cathedral where Prince Rainier and Princess Grace were married.
- Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Discover the beauty of this hilltop town and gain insight into why it became a refuge for artists.
- Avignon: View the Pont d'Avignon and walk the medieval narrow streets of the Old Town to the Palais des Papes.
- Lyon: Take in panoramic views of Lyon from Fourvière Hill and explore the city's cobblestone streets on a sightseeing orientation.
- Paris: Join a Local Specialist to discover the hidden squares and secret lanes of Paris.
Make Travel Matter®
- Venice: Discover the ancient skill of Venetian glassblowing and play a part in preserving this traditional craft. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Optional Experiences (Additional Cost) and free time
- Eurostar high-speed train from Paris to London (offered on relevant tour variations)
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised
- 7 Dinners (D)
- 17 Breakfasts (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Operator
We consider how we can positively impact the communities we engage with. Through our JoinTrafalgar initiatives powered by TreadRight, guests don’t just leave footprints on the ground, but leave a lasting legacy for the betterment of locals and the future of their communities.
It’s 72 years of destination experience and feedback from over 5 million happy guests that fuels our innovation to continually delivery simply the best holidays.
You’ll enjoy the icons and hidden gems with a Local Specialist by your side. Read more
With one on every itinerary, Be My Guest ensures your journey is truly one-of-a-kind, wherever it takes you. Read more
Find yourself overnighting in accommodations with stories as rich as the destinations you’re exploring. Read more
Trip Reviews (19)
The Trafalgar Traditional Europe Tour was fast paced and reasonably disappointing overall with little consideration read more made in relation to lunches, which had to be purchased mainly at roadside Autogrills in the midst of pushing and shoving through massive queues of tourists and others travelling for the Christmas holiday break. The toilets at these stops were filthy and again having to line up in endless queues left little time to enjoy the break and the meal.
The majority of hotels along the way left much to be desired and were located quite a distance from the town centres and one hotel in particular was very dirty. After travelling most of the day on a bus and checking into your hotel after 6pm on most days, it would be better to offer hotel accommodation in the town so that travellers had some dinner options.
The most disappointing thing was that we were touring over Christmas and the New Year and the itinerary claimed to have organised special activities and meals for those days when the truth is nothing was arranged for us and the Tour Guide simply advised us that this was because everything was closed on Christmas Day so we spent 8 hours on the bus! NYE in Paris was the same with nothing having been organised by Trafalgar and our Hotel having been booked out for private functions so there was nowhere to go for dinner or to toast the NY.
My travel companions were great and thanks to them the tour was bearable but the Trafalgar Tour Director and Driver were absolutely dreadful. They spoke amongst themselves in Italian about the travellers on board and banished some of the travellers who had walking difficulties to the back of the bus so that they didn’t have to assist them! Unfortunately for the Trafalgar employees, some of the travellers spoke Italian and understood everything they said. The cities visited were beautiful but again due the time of year and traffic on the highways about 1/3 of the planned activities were cancelled.
Some of our accommodation was not what we expected to be Trafalgar standard, but overall pretty good.
Booking this trip through Georgie at Global Journeys was as always easy & great. The few hiccups we had were quickly sorted with Georgie’s help, and she was always helpful and prompt with my many questions. I would highly recommend Georgie and Global Journeys & look forward to many more trips to come.
The tour itinerary overall was amazing and the optional extras an absolute must. Accommodation was, in some cases good, in other cases excellent and whilst breakfasts were always substantial and very good, some dinners in the hotel left a little to be desired. Whilst there was the occasional hiccup that was beyond the control of anyone, overall I would not hesitate in recommending this tour to anyone. Beautiful countries, incredible scenery , so much fun and memories that I will cherish forever. And if you're thinking of doing it alone but a bit worried......go for it, you won't be disappointed.
As for Global Journeys....thank you Georgie for everything. An absolute seamless process, was always on hand to answer my questions and I will not hesitate to book through Georgie at Global Journeys for my next trip......travelling single again and not worried at all.....to Canada and Alaska!
Optional excursions made the tour price expensive, 17 optionals is a lot, and these cut into any free time you might have. Night time optionals were good fun though. Thought the Galleria Academia was very expensive when we really only wanted to see statue of David, local guide was informative but really didn't need all that. We didn't do 2 of optionals as had done them on a previous tour. Tour inclusions were excellent, tour director was diligent in getting us to Sistine Chapel and Pompeii early before the crowds which made things much easier. Would certainly book with Global Journeys again, prompt efficient service.
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Trafalgar Europe (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 Trafalgar. 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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