INSIGHT VACATIONS European Grandeur - Premium Highlights

INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES

• Escorted by a professional Tour Director

• Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours

• Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom

• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage

• Insight Traveller Welcome pack

• London Airport transfer service available

ITINERARY INSIGHT VACATIONS European Grandeur

Tour Pace

This tour is well planned. Nearly all stops are 2 nights in duration with only a small number of single night stops where necessary. As it is a long tour, there is a relaxing 3 day break in Rome in the middle of the itinerary.

Day 1 - LONDON – PARIS

Cross the English Channel to Calais, then visit the Canadian Memorial at Vimy Ridge. Continue to Paris for a Welcome Reception with drink and a light meal.

Hotel: Le Méridien Etoile

Meals: Welcome Reception

Day 2 - PARIS SIGHTSEEING

Enjoy a guided tour of the Louvre Museum. Then see Notre Dame Cathedral, the Place de la Concorde, Arc de Triomphe and ascend the Eiffel Tower. The afternoon is at leisure.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 3 - PARIS – LOIRE VALLEY – BORDEAUX

Visit the magnificent Château of Chenonceau in the Loire Valley. Continue through the famous vineyards to Bordeaux au Lac.

Hotel: Pullman Aquitania

Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner

Day 4 - BORDEAUX – LOURDES

Witness some of Bordeaux’s 18C character on your guided city tour. Then drive to Lourdes to visit the Grotto and drink the spring waters. Join the pilgrims in a procession tonight.

Hotel: De La Grotte

Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner

Day 5 - LOURDES – MADRID

Cross the Pyrenees and Sierras into the heart of Spain and continue to the capital, Madrid.

Hotel: NH Nacional

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 6 - MADRID SIGHTSEEING

A local guide introduces you to all the main sights of Madrid, the highlight being a tour of the magnificent Prado Museum housing works of Velázquez and Goya. The afternoon is at leisure.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 7 - MADRID – ZARAGOZA – BARCELONA

Cross the Castilian plain for a short stop in Zaragoza. Continue to the vibrant port of Barcelona.

Hotel: Melia

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 8 - BARCELONA SIGHTSEEING

On a guided tour, walk around the Gothic Quarter, see the extraordinary architecture of the Passeig de Gràcia and visit Gaudi’s incredible Sagrada Familia.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 9 - BARCELONA – MONACO

Re-enter France and follow the coast across the Provençal plains to the Cote d’Azur and chic Monaco.

Hotel: Fairmont Monte Carlo

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 10 - EXCURSION TO EZE

Visit the medieval village of Eze, miraculously perched high on a rock and surrounded by ancient walls. After taking in the views, visit a French perfumery then return to Monaco for time at leisure.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 11 - MONACO – PISA – FLORENCE

Depart for Italy and drive along the Italian Riviera to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Stay in Florence.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner

Day 12 - FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING

Enjoy views over Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo then a guide shows you Signoria Square, the Duomo and Baptistery.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 13 - FLORENCE – ORVIETO – ROME

Travel through the Chianti hills on your way to hill top Orvieto, perched on a 900 foot high plateau. See the Cathedral before continuing to Rome.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Beverly Hills

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 14 - ROME SIGHTSEEING

With a local guide, visit the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums. Continue into St Peter’s Basilica, then cross the Tiber to visit the mighty Colosseum and see the Roman Forum.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 15 - ROME – CAPRI – SORRENTO

Down to the Bay of Naples to cross over to the Isle of Capri. Ride up to Capri Town for a guided tour and free time. Seeing the art of ‘intarsio’ wood laying in cliff top Sorrento.

Hotel: Corallo

Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner

Day 16 - SORRENTO – POMPEII – ASSISI

Visit the ill fated Roman town of Pompeii with your local guide. Continue north to St. Francis’s town of Assisi.

Hotel: Giotto

Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner

Day 17 - ASSISI – VENICE

Visit St Francis Basilica. Cross the Apennines to the Po Valley and on to the beautiful canals of Venice.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner

Day 18 - VENICE SIGHTSEEING

Take a private launch to St Mark’s Square. See the Bridge of Sighs, Doges’ Palace and St Mark’s Basilica. Watch Venetian glass being blown and then enjoy a gondola serenade through the canals.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 19 - VENICE – VIENNA

The Carnic Alps herald the Austrian Lake District. Then a scenic drive across the Styrian Alps to Vienna.

Hotel: Hilton Vienna Plaza

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 20 - VIENNA SIGHTSEEING

Sightseeing with a local guide includes a visit to magnificent Schönbrunn Palace. Continue around the ring road seeing the Parliament, Imperial Palace and Opera House.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 21 - VIENNA – SALZBURG – MUNICH

Drive to Salzburg where a local guide shows you Mozart’s birthplace, the Cathedral and Mirabell Gardens. In fun loving Munich tonight’s Dine-Around evening offers you a selection of restaurants to choose from.

Hotel: Westin Grand Arabellapark

Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dine Around

Day 22 - MUNICH – VADUZ – LAKE LUCERNE

See the Marienplatz with its Glockenspiel. Drive to Vaduz in Liechtenstein to see the castle. Then enjoy a beautiful drive to lovely Lake Lucerne in Switzerland.

Hotel: Post Hotel Weggis

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 23 - LUCERNE SIGHTSEEING

Sightseeing includes the Chapel Bridge and emotive Lion Monument before ascending nearby Mount Pilatus by cog-wheel railway and cable-car for views over the Swiss Alps.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner

Day 24 - LAKE LUCERNE – RHINELAND

See the thundering Rhine Falls before crossing into Germany and travelling through the legendary Black Forest en route to the Rhineland.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Dinner

Day 25 - RHINELAND – BOPPARD – AMSTERDAM

Take a scenic cruise along the Rhine. In Boppard, time to explore this quaint wine village, before heading north to your hotel in lively Amsterdam.

Hotel: Mövenpick City Centre

Meals: Buffet Breakfast

Day 26 - AMSTERDAM SIGHTSEEING

Cross Dam Square and pass the Royal Palace to see diamonds being cut and polished. Then join an included drive through typical Dutch countryside. Enjoy a Celebration Dinner with wine tonight.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner

Day 27 - AMSTERDAM – LONDON

Cross Belgium to Calais in France for your return voyage to Dover. The tour ends a short time later in London.

Meals: Buffet Breakfast
 

Your Insight tour already includes a host of bonus highlights and comprehensive sightseeing. However, there is an exciting array of optional excursions which will turn an already amazing experience into the trip of a lifetime! These are entirely optional and can be booked through your Tour Director/Local Representative at the commencement of your tour. All prices are quoted in local currency. Payment can be made in cash or by Visa, Mastercard or American Express. To help your pre-tour budgeting we suggest you allow approximately EURO 45 per person per day for optional excursions.

PAR02 - SEINE CRUISE & ILLUMINATIONS
After our leisurely Seine Cruise we take a magical tour of the 'city of light'. EURO 32

PAR27 - DINNER, SEINE CRUISE & ILLUMINATIONS TOUR
An excellent dinner in a traditional Parisian Bistro is followed by a cruise along the River Seine to view famous sights from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame cathedral. The evening ends with a tour of the spectacular illuminations of Paris. EURO 78

PAR24 - MOULIN ROUGE
Dinner and cabaret at the world famous Moulin Rouge – the original Parisian cabaret – immortalized by the recent award winning film! EURO 145
NOUVELLE EVE - Dinner with wine included at one of the most prestigious cabarets in town. An evening of exciting acts, stunning tableaux and wonderful entertainment. EURO 125

BOD01 - CITY TOUR & WINE TASTING
This tour offers a panorama of Bordeaux from the middle ages to the present. From the wide avenues of its neo-classical neighbourhoods surrounding the Place de la Quinconces (monument Girondins) and the Grand Theatre to the narrow lanes of the St Pierre neighbourhood. It invites you to discover the diversity of its rich heritage and its great association with the wine trade. Discover the beauty of its sumptuous 18th & 19th century architectural grandeur along the Garonne river before a walking tour to explore Old Bordeaux. Finish with a wine tasting of Bordeaux's red and white wines. EURO 27

MAD01 - TOLEDO EXCURSION
A specialist guide takes us to the unique city of Toledo, Spain's capital during the golden era, and where El Greco lived and worked. We visit the fine Gothic cathedral, admire the old city views along the Tagus gorge and later visit a specialist Damascene workshop. EURO 41

MAD07 - MADRILENO DINNER & PLAZA MAYOR
First it's off to Plaza Mayor, once the Main Square dating back to 1617 and dominated by the spectacular façade of the 'Casa de la Pandaria'. After time for photos we drive to our traditional 'Meson' to try many of the dishes that Madrid is renowned for. Drinks such as regional wine, beer and soft drinks are included but we suggest sampling some of Spain's famous 'Sangria'. All this will be accompanied by a local 'Tuna de Madrid' playing all your favourite Spanish songs on traditional instruments. EURO 57

BCN02 - BARCELONA BY NIGHT WITH DINNER
After a delightful dinner in a traditional Catalan restaurant, we take a scenic drive up the hill of Montjuic to see the sparkling harbour and Olympic city lights. EURO 50

BCN04 - MONTSERRAT & THE BLACK MADONNA
An unmissable Montserrat visit includes breathtaking views of unique rock formations (hymns explain how this 'serrated mountain' was carved by little angels with golden saws); a dramatic Benedictine monastery and history that connects the Catalan people and their struggles. It has been Catalonia's most important pilgrimage site for a thousand years. We enjoy the spectacular views before visiting 'La Moreneta', the black Madonna. EURO 35

BCN03 - CATALAN DINNER & FLAMENCO
A buffet of distinctive Catalonian dishes is followed by a riveting Flamenco performance. The Flamenco is Spain's national dance and embodies the spirit of the nation. EURO 78

MCM02 - RIVIERA '3 CORNICHES' & DINNER
We take a spectacular scenic drive along the Riviera to the 'Three Corniches' and enjoy breathtaking views along perhaps the most beautiful coast in Europe. We reach the 'Grand Corniche' and stop for a sweeping panorama over the Mediterranean coastline. We continue to our restaurant where we enjoy a dinner of local specialities from the region. (Drinks included). EURO 65

FLO01 - 'DAVID' & THE TREASURES OF FLORENCE
We visit the Academy of Fine Arts, housing the original 'David' and the Medici Chapel or the 'Opera del Duomo'. Our expert guide brings to life the story of Michelangelo, Donatello, Leonardo da Vinci and the famous Medici rulers of this unique city. EURO 34

FLO09 - SAN GIMIGNANO EXCURSION
A delightful excursion to Tuscany's most famous hilltop town. San Gimignano is considered the medieval Manhattan of Italy due to its towers which dominate the skyline. There is time to enjoy the atmosphere of this unchanged ancient jewel which has remained intact since the 14th century, and today is a UNESCO World Heritage town. EURO 31

FLO03 - DINNER IN THE TUSCAN HILLS
One not to miss - a fabulous Tuscan gastronomic experience awaits you. We drive to a specially chosen restaurant for an evening to remember with beautiful food and wine. Viva Italia! EURO 57

FLO14 - DINNER AT LA CERTOSA
We enjoy a Tuscan dinner with wine in a private room overlooking the imposing Certosa monastery. The menu features local specialities and music is provided by local artists. At the end of the meal we can taste the famous liqueurs produced by the monks. (This tour is sometimes offered with an interior visit to the monastery). EURO 66

ROM16 - PIAZZA & FOUNTAINS
This walking tour takes you to the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona with its pavement cafes, 17th century fountains and architecture. Perhaps have your portrait painted by one of the street artists! This tour is conducted by a local guide and you will utilise personal headsets. EURO 32

ROM05 - DINNER IN ROME AND ILLUMINATIONS
We begin with a visit to a local 'ristorante' to try a selection of Roman dishes prepared in the Roman way. Drinks such as wine, beer and soft drinks are included. After a delicious meal accompanied by music, we take you to see Rome beautifully illuminated. Our journey takes us past sights including the Colosseum, Piazza Venezia and Michelangelo's 'Cordonata' to name but a few. A night not to be missed. EURO 57

ROM04A - ROMAN DINNER PARTY
Enjoy an evening of delicious Roman cuisine with drinks, music and a great Italian ambience. EURO 57

SRR02A - ISLE OF CAPRI, ANACAPRI & LUNCH
The Isle of Capri is best seen on a minibus tour. We drive to Anacapri with its magnificent views over the Mediterranean. We then have a guided tour of the famous Villa San Michele, followed by free time to window shop before continuing to Capri town. Light lunch is included. (On certain days the Villa may be substituted with the chairlift to Mt Solaro. It can also be offered without lunch at Euro 37). EURO 52

VCE06 - MAGICAL VENICE
This evening we board our private boats for a cruise down the famous "Grand Canal", past illuminated palazzi and twinkling chandeliers, to the romantic St Mark's Square. We have reservations in a famous café where we sit under the stars listening to the orchestra play some of Italy's best loved music (One drink is included). EURO 45

VCE09 - HIDDEN VENICE
An historical walk, with a local guide, through some of the lesser known quarters of Venice. Discover some of the secrets of other quarters of the Venetian labyrinth. Your experience will be enhanced by the use of individual headsets. EURO 26

VCE02 - BURANO EXCURSION & LUNCH
Explore the Venetian lagoon on our cruise around the islands including the colourful island of Burano - a photographer's paradise and famous for its lace. Then enjoy a superb lunch sampling the local specialities. An excursion not to be missed! Lunch may be replaced with a dinner. EURO 65

VIE06 - DINNER IN A COUNTRY MANSION
We see the famous Prater Amusement Park, then cross the Danube to arrive at one of the most famous restaurants in Austria. Former patrons include Napoleon, the Emperor Franz Joseph, Luciano Pavarotti, Liz Taylor and Arnold Schwarzenegger. In this historic country mansion we will enjoy a delicious dinner in one of the elegant dining rooms. Choose your main dish from various Austrian specialties and enjoy the live music and unlimited drinks. EURO 60

VIE17 - ELEGANT VIENNA
Explore the interior of the world's most famous opera house and step back in time as we enjoy Vienna's magnificent historic district by taking an open-air carriage ride. EURO 46

VIE16 - VIENNA WOODS & GRINZING
We drive to the west of this Imperial City to the romantic Vienna Woods where we have dinner with drinks and musical entertainment in a typical "heuriger" tavern. EURO 56

VIE14 - GALA VIENNESE CONCERT
A wonderful concert of Viennese Classical music including some of the most famous works of Johann Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, performed by highly acclaimed soloists and dancers. A glass of champagne is also included during this special evening. EURO 47

MUC01 - BIERKELLERS DINNER
Lively Bavarian dinner with music, drinks and entertainment in one of Munich's famous "Bierkellers". EURO 47

SZG06 - EAGLE'S NEST & THE BAVARIAN ALPS
Drive deep into the National Park past farmhouses and picturesque villages to the ruins of Obersalzburg. From here, transfer to special motor coaches adapted to the scenic mountain climb to Hilter's notorious "Eagles Nest". There are splendid views through the arches up to the 'Hohen Goll' and across the snow capped peaks. EURO 47

SZG07 - BERCHTESGADEN AND HOHENRINGSTRASSE EXCURSION
Should optional SZG06 not be available, SZG07 below will be offered as an alternative. A scenic drive in the Bavarian Alps to Berchtesgaden within sight of Hitler's Bavarian redoubt. Then via the Hohenringstrasse, we ascend 1500 m (5000 ft) along one of Europe's most spectacular and scenic roads. EURO 34

LCR01A - LAKE LUCERNE HAPPY HOUR CRUISE
Widely considered to be the loveliest of the mountain lakes, much of the shoreline of Lake Lucerne can only be fully appreciated from the water. Admire the spectacular homes of the fortunate few, privileged to live on its scenic shores, as we cruise gently by. Two drinks will be served during the trip. EURO 38

LCR05 - SWISS EVENING
Enjoy a tasty Swiss meal (one of the courses will be the famous Swiss cheese fondue) in a typical restaurant. Whilst you enjoy dinner, join in the fun of a lively folklore show which includes yodelling, flag throwing, Alpenhorn blowing and other great Swiss entertainment. Drinks are included. EURO 74

LCR14 - CARRIAGES & COUNTRYSIDE
A chance to meet the Swiss, as local farmers take us on a delightful countryside tour in horse-drawn carriages. Enjoy stunning scenery as we trot around a typical rural community, en route to a local farm where local drinks and snacks will be served. EURO 45

AMS06 - CANAL CRUISE & SAILOR'S QUARTER
A canal cruise through the 'Venice of the North' in a glass topped boat is the best way to see Amsterdam. After your cruise, a walk through the famous 'Sailor's Quarter' is a must. EURO 18

AMS07 - DINNER IN AN HISTORIC DUTCH HOUSE
Savour a meal of Dutch specialities in elegant surroundings. Drinks included. EURO 56