Day 1 - 7 - SightseeingDay 1: London - Amsterdam
Meet your Travel Director this morning before leaving London. Venture past the iconic White Cliffs of Dover fringing the English Channel as you board your ferry to Calais. We travel through the lush green landscape of Belgium in Amsterdam this afternoon where we'll spend the night. This evening enjoy a Welcome Reception on a scenic canal cruise including a light dinner and welcome drinks.
Day 2: Amsterdam - Rhine Cruise - Rhineland
Take to Amsterdam's charming canals this morning before retreating to Germany's Rhine Valley for a memorable cruise meandering past terraced vineyards, historic towns and medieval castles to St. Goar. We pass the legendary Lorelei Rock, named after a mermaid who lured fishermen to their deaths with her mesmerising song then venture to our Rhineland hotel where we'll spend our evening at leisure.
Day 3: Rhineland - Heidelberg - Schaffhausen - Lucerne (2 Nights)
The old university town of Heidelberg is our first stop this morning, with its impressive Renaissance structures, Baroque Old Town and view of the ruined red sandstone castle that towers above the city. Delving into a world of legends and fairy-tales, we enter the enchanting Black Forest and stop for a Cultural Insight into the fine craft of cuckoo clock making, before visiting the dramatic Rhine Falls at Schaffhausen, the largest waterfall in Europe. We cross the Swiss border, admiring the exquisite alpine setting and arrive on the shores of Lake Lucerne where we will stay for the next two nights.
Day 4: Lucerne Orientation
Soak up the relaxed lakeside atmosphere amidst a stunning natural setting before exploring the city's fascinating heritage. Cross the solid wooden Chapel Bridge on your morning orientation, visit the solemn Lion Monument, commemorating the Massacre of the Swiss Guards in 1792 and spend your afternoon shopping in the old town for Swiss souvenirs and chocolates. Consider an Optional Experience ascending the surrounding mountains for panoramic alpine views, wander along the tranquil lake shore or meander around the city admiring the decorative signposts and ornate façades lining the city's quaint streets.
Day 5: Lucerne - Burgundy Wine Region - Paris (2 Nights)
See the changing landscape as you travel into France through Alsace and across the Maginot Line. Indulge in the mesmerising countryside of the Burgundy Wine Region, famous for its delicious Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grape varieties, before arriving in Paris. This evening is yours to explore the grand boulevards of the French capital. See the pageantry of Paris and opt for an Optional Experience to enjoy the colourful sights and sounds of a famous Parisian Cabaret.
Day 6: Paris Sightseeing
Join a Local Specialist today to explore the artistic and historic treasures of Paris, including views of the elegant Champs Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe and 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 of Light in all its glory. This afternoon, meander through the stylish gardens, avenues and lanes of Paris admiring the sophisticated atmosphere or perhaps join an Optional Experience to the exquisite Palace of Versailles. This evening we celebrate an epic journey across Europe with our fellow travellers at a Farewell Be My Guest Dinner at a family run bistro.
Day 7: Paris - London
After breakfast, we say a fond au revoir to Paris. Crossing the infamous Somme battlefields, the final resting place of so many brave souls, we catch a glimpse of the Canadian War Memorial at Vimy Ridge. In Calais, we board a ferry to Dover, continuing to London by coach where our encounter with European Highlights comes to an end.