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Edinburgh, The Highlands and Islands with European Gems

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Our Price From 14,633 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 270 Per Person
 Trip Length
23 Days
 Trip Starts
Edinburgh
 Trip Finishes
Budapest
23 Day Edinburgh, The Highlands and Islands with European Gems Itinerary (Travelmarvel)
Countries Explored: Scotland, Holland, Germany, Austria, Hungary
Trip Style
River Cruise
Departures
Accommodation
4 Star
Max. Group Size
40
Guide Level
Fully Guided, Locally Guided
Trip Code
EUTCSHS23

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Travelmarvel's 23 Day Edinburgh, The Highlands and Islands with European Gems. Journey around Scotland on the Jacobite Steam Train before cruising down the Danube River from the Netherlands to Hungary.

Itinerary

Today you will arrive in Scotland's much-loved capital, Edinburgh. Discover its fascinating history, unsurpassed beauty and warm, friendly locals. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your centrally located hotel, situated close to the station. Stay: Edinburgh, Apex Hotel Waterloo Place (D)

All aboard for Glasgow this morning, before changing trains for a journey on one of the world's most incredible railway lines, the West Highland Line. Travel along a hillside ledge overlooking Gare Loch before entering the spectacular Highlands, an idyllic, remote and untouched landscape. The incredible route skirts the western banks of Loch Lomond and climbs quickly from Crianlarich to Upper Tyndrum and wild Rannoch Moor, a dramatic region of peat bogs, streams and ancient forests that are only visible from the comfort of your train.

On arrival at Fort William, transfer to your hotel. Stay Three Nights: Fort William Glenspean Lodge Hotel or similar (B/D)

Heading through the small islands and across to Mull, the incredible picture-postcard views are truly awe-inspiring. Think rugged coastline; hills rising sharply from the water's edge; endless greens, purples and browns of the moorland; and jagged, exposed rock faces. On approach to the island, you'll notice a lonely castle above the sea cliffs. This is Duart Castle, ancestral home of the Maclean Clan. Visit the castle, taking in its eclectic rooms and stunning views. Later, return to your hotel for the evening. (B/D)

Insider Experience: Venture to the town of Oban where you'll board a ferry and cruise to Craignure on the Isle of Mull.

Today you'll travel by coach to Neptune's Staircase. It takes approximately one-and-a-half hours to pass from one end of the staircase to the other, where water overcomes gravity and nature to climb the hillside. From here, pass the stunning mountain landscapes of Glencoe before returning to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Scottish dinner. (B/D)

Insider Experience: Travel to Neptune's Staircase, an impressive set of eight locks operated by a team of at least three lock keepers. Situated on the Caledonian Canal, the 22-ton lock gates were originally hand-powered, but are now operated by hydraulics. Discover the picturesque waters of Loch Linnhe and set off on a cruise.

Departing from Fort William, join the Jacobite Steam Train. Your train will steam past Ben Nevis before climbing into the mountains around Glenfinnan, a town famous as the rallying point for Bonnie Prince Charlie's assault on the British throne. At Glenfinnan, reach the line's most picturesque section and one of Britain's most iconic engineering works – the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct. A magical experience, it's no wonder this train was featured as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films.

As you head towards Mallaig, we drop down to the sea's edge and the landscape opens up with the first views of the rugged ‘Small Isles' – Rum, Eigg and Muck – which hang close offshore and tease in and out of view near the journey's end. After a lunch stop, it's time to return to Fort William.

From there, you'll then continue by coach through the picturesque countryside to the city of Inverness, capital of the Highlands. Stay Three Nights: Inverness Palace Hotel and Spa or similar (B/D)

Insider Experience: Join the Jacobite Steam Train for a journey to Mallaig on the final leg of the West Highland Line.

This morning, you'll travel to the tranquil waters of Loch Ness, as famous for the elusive ‘monster' that allegedly swims in its depths as for its natural beauty. Later, return by coach to Inverness, and enjoy some time at leisure. (B/D)

Insider Experience: During a cruise, soak up the myth and mystery of Loch Ness and its monster before disembarking at the picturesque 13th-century ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Today, experience a picturesque rail journey. Enjoy countless photo opportunities as you wind through wooded hillsides and over sparse moors, climbing over the highlands and past charming loch-side and seaside towns. Arrive at Kyle of Lochalsh, the end of the line, located across a short stretch of water from the Isle of Skye. Afterwards, make a visit to Eilean Donan Castle, situated on a tiny island in Loch Duich. (B)

Insider Experience: Enjoy one of the most breathtaking railway journeys in Europe: the Kyle Line.

Leaving Inverness behind this morning, you'll travel south by rail through the Cairngorms and via the towns of Aviemore and Kingussie, as well as the burgh of Pitlochry, before arriving back in Edinburgh. Transfer from the railway station to your hotel. Stay: Edinburgh, Crowne Plaza Edinburgh Royal Terrace or similar (B/D)

Insider Experience: This evening, enjoy the opportunity to try some traditional Scottish fare. You'll also listen to a chorus of bagpipes and drums during a Scottish-themed evening to mark the end of your journey.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight from Edinburgh to Amsterdam.

Upon arrival, transfer to your contemporary river ship. Perhaps grab a map to explore this carefree, cosmopolitan city.

This evening meet your Cruise Director and fellow passengers at a Captain's Welcome Reception. Stay 14 Nights: aboard your Travelmarvel river ship (B/D)

Board a glass-top boat and glide through Amsterdam's maze of waterways with a local guide, before enjoying some free time to explore this lively city.

Later, travel by coach to Utrecht, via Rembrandt's Windmill. From here, your ship will set off along the Rhine as you prepare for tonight's special Gala Dinner. (B/L/D)

Learn how the twin spires of Cologne's famous cathedral, the Kolner Dom, took over six centuries to complete as you tour this picturesque city by coach. You'll then take the short drive to Bruhl for your Insider Experience. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: Step back in time during a visit to the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Castle. Listen to enthralling stories and enjoy a walk through the landscaped parks and gardens between the castle and the lodge.

Dock in Rudesheim, and board the Winzerexpress mini-train, bound for Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. (B/L/D)

Today, arrive in the evocative town of Miltenberg. Perfectly positioned at the confluence of the Tauber and Main rivers, Miltenberg is home to charming half-timbered houses and beautiful squares. Later this evening, enjoy a superb dinner on board. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: Get a glimpse into local life as you are welcomed into the home of a friendly Miltenberg family. Enjoy coffee and cake made by your gracious hosts.

Board a coach and travel through the rolling hills to Wurzburg. Admire the baroque palace and walk through the beautiful Court Garden.

Later, perhaps enjoy an optional visit to medieval Rothenburg, a true fairytale town. (B/L/D)

Cruise along the last stretch of the Main River before arriving at Bamberg. Here, choose between an afternoon of free time or a guided tour.

Later on this evening, your ship will reach the Main-Danube Canal. (B/L/D)

Explore Nuremberg, the site of Hitler's infamous rallies. Wander the cobblestone streets, discovering hidden boutiques and artisan stores. Finish your day cruising through the Main-Danube Canal, crossing Europe's Continental Divide thanks to the canal's 16 stair-step locks. (B/L/D)

Having reached the Danube River overnight, Regensburg awaits. Spend the day in this charming city, conveniently docked right in the heart of town so you can have easy access to all the main sites. Later, perhaps take an optional tour to Kuchlbauer's World of Beer in Abensbergu. Take a guided tour of the family-owned brewery and see The Kuchlbauer Tower, designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: This evening, enjoy an authentic Bavarian experience on board as you sample local beer and snacks, accompanied by traditional folk music, song and dance.

As you enjoy your breakfast, arrive in the ‘Three Rivers City' of Passau, where the rivers Inn and Ilz join the Danube. Discover the city at your leisure this morning, or grab a bike and set out to explore. Alternatively, join an optional tour to Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, or travel to Salzburg and enjoy the sights from ‘The Sound of Music'. (B/L/D)

Join a local guide to see Melk Abbey, an active Benedictine monastery since 1089. Cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley, then continue to Durnstein, where you have a free afternoon to explore.  Alternatively you may wish to join an optional bike ride from Melk to Durnstein. (B/L/D)

In Vienna, join a walking tour of St Stephen's Cathedral, the Graben, Hofburg Palace and the Albertina.

This evening, perhaps enjoy an optional concert featuring music from Mozart to ‘The Sound of Music'. (B/L/D)

Today is yours to explore Vienna. Perhaps visit the Hofburg area and the Imperial Treasury. Otherwise, enjoy an optional excursion to Schonbrunn Palace, or head to Bratislava. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, join a local guide to explore the city.

Tonight enjoy a Captain's Farewell Dinner. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, disembark and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Join the Jacobite Steam Train for a journey to Mallaig on the final leg of the West Highland Line
  • Cruise Loch Ness and discover the 13th-century ruins of Urquhart Castle
  • Step back in time during a visit to the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Castle

  • Eight nights in premium accommodation and 14 nights cruising on a contemporary Travelmarvel river ship
  • Rail itinerary operated by Travelmarvel's partner Great Rail Journeys
  • Services of a Great Rail Journeys Tour Escort, Travelmarvel Cruise Director and local guides
  • Prices include a flight from Edinburgh to Amsterdam (unescorted)
  • Prices include transfers, port charges and tipping

  • 56 meals - 22 breakfasts, 13 lunches and 21 dinners
  • Onboard water stations, plus tea and coffee, soft drink, beer and local wine during lunch and dinner on your cruise

  • *Scotrail services may replace the Jacobite Steam Train on early and late departures. Please enquire at time of booking
  • Itinerary and hotels may be subject to change
  • Low or high-water levels may cause disruption to cruising
  • Order of touring is subject to change
  • Prices are for rail/cruise and flight as specified only
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Deck Plans

 
Category D
Window Stateroom
 
Category E
Window Stateroom
Lower Deck (Level 1)
 
Category B
French Balcony
 
Category B+
French Balcony
 
Category C
French Balcony
Main Deck (Level 2)
 
Category A
French Balcony
 
Category A+
French Balcony
 
Category P
French Balcony
 
Owners Suite
Upper Deck (Level 3)
Sun Deck (Level 4)

Cabins

Category E & D (Window Stateroom)

  • 153 sq ft/ 14.2 sq m
  • Ensuite with a shower, air-conditioning, a hair-dryer, a safe and flatscreen TV
  • Superior queen or twin bedding with plush linen
  • Each room has windows that offer stunning views
  • Seating area with a chair and small desk

Category C, B, A, A+ & P (French Balcony)

  • 167 sq ft/ 15.5 sq m
  • Ensuite with a shower, air-conditioning, a hair-dryer, a safe and flatscreen TV
  • Superior queen or twin bedding with plush linen
  • Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door with french balcony
  • Seating area with a chair and small desk

Owners Suite

  • 258 sq ft/ 24 sq m
  • Ensuite with a shower, air-conditioning, a hair-dryer, a safe and flatscreen TV
  • Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door with french balcony and windows that offer stunning views
  • Seating area with chair

Brochure

Europe

Travelmarvel Europe (2024)

Explore more of Europe with Travelmarvel in 2024. Whether you’re looking to glide along Europe’s rivers or navigate coastal areas on a small ship cruise, we’ve got you covered. Perhaps a rail journey or an extended city stay beckons? No matter your chosen travel style, Europe offers you a holiday that you will always treasure.

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Thursday 02 May 2024
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Thursday 30 May 2024
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Thursday 25 Jul 2024
Friday 16 Aug 2024
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Thursday 08 Aug 2024
Friday 30 Aug 2024
Ship Name Polaris
From: $23,395
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Thursday 22 Aug 2024
Friday 13 Sep 2024
Ship Name Vega
From: $23,395 $22,963
Save $432 Enquire
Thursday 05 Sep 2024
Friday 27 Sep 2024
Ship Name Polaris
From: $23,395
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Friday 11 Oct 2024
Ship Name Vega
From: $23,195 $22,767
Save $428 Enquire
Note
Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.

Cabin Upgrades Optional cabin upgrades. Upgrades priced per person

Base Cabin  (Prices Shown) $ 0
Category D $ 395
Category C $ 2,295
Category B $ 2,345
Category B+ $ 2,395
Category A $ 2,595
Category A+ $ 2,645
Category P $ 2,695
Owners Suite $ 3,995

Base Cabin  (Prices Shown) $ 0
Category D $ 395
Category C $ 2,295
Category B $ 2,345
Category B+ $ 2,395
Category A $ 2,595
Category A+ $ 2,645
Category P $ 2,695
Owners Suite $ 3,995
Note
Upgrade prices shown are per person. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will confirm and include the upgrade price in your quote.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Travelmarvel. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Travelmarvel. These 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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