European Rhapsody

Revel in the Regal History of Austria, Italy & Germany on a 11-Day Guided Tour

$4,077

 

Tour Description

Experience the finest Europe has to offer as you lose yourself on the Romantic Road in Rothenburg and satisfy your appetite in Hungary with a fine dining dinner cruise in Budapest. Led by local experts, your experience will rival the aristocrats of yesteryear in the famed Carinthian Lake District. After checking in at your exclusive, private boat access hotel, dinner is served at La Fenice before twilight night caps at Café Florian—the premier cocktail bar in Venice. Sample a little pomp and circumstance with the Bavarian grandeur of Germany's Würzburg Residenz and in Vienna, tread in the footsteps of your local Travel Director with a chance to take a private tour of Maria Theresa's awesome Schönbrunn Palace.

 
 

HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS

London, England: Begin your journey in the iconic city of London. Explore world-famous landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben. Experience the vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse culinary scene that make London one of the world’s greatest cities.

Amsterdam, Netherlands: Cruise through the picturesque canals of Amsterdam, known as the "Venice of the North." Visit the historic Anne Frank House, explore the masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum, and stroll through the colorful flower market, all while enjoying the city’s charming atmosphere.

Rhine Valley, Germany: Embark on a scenic cruise along the Rhine River, where you’ll pass by medieval castles, lush vineyards, and charming villages. This journey through the heart of Germany offers some of the most breathtaking views in Europe.

 
  • Day 1 | Arrive Amsterdam

    Welcome to Amsterdam, enjoy a day of leisure. Join your Travel

    Director for a Welcome Reception. Mingle and get to know your

    fellow travellers as you cruise along some of the many quaint,

    tree-lined canals, to explore the heart of the Old City, before

    enjoying a pleasant evening of dinner and wine at a local

    restaurant.

    Meals: Dinner with Wine

    Hotel: Apollo, Amsterdam

    Day 2 | Rhine Valley to Würzburg

    Relax with a scenic drive along the Rhine Valley to Würzburg. See

    the mighty Marienburg Fortress – the immense baroque palace of

    the Prince Bishops and one of the most important landmarks in

    Germany. On arrival, visit the imposing Würzburg Residenz, a

    UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a Local Expert. Marvel at

    intricate decorations and lavish staterooms boasting with French,

    Austrian and Venetian inuences.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

    Hotel: Maritim, Würzburg

    Day 3 | Rothenburg and Golden Prague

    In the morning venture to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the most

    well-preserved town on the Romantic Road. Continue east to

    the Czech border, passing the town of Pilsen renowned for its

    beer, before reaching the Golden City of Prague. In the evening,

    perhaps take a river cruise through the heart of the city?

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Royal, Prague

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Prague by Night - A wonderful introduction to the “Golden City”. Begin with spectacular views over Prague and the Vltava River from the

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    point to admire Prague’s buildings and Monuments illuminated!

    Adult: 62.00 EUR

    * Occasionally this optional experience may be operated without the river cruise at EURO 33.

    Day 4 | Prague, City of a Hundred Spires

    Explore Prague with Insight Choice. Choose to walk the

    courtyards of the Castle and visit the imposing St. Vitus

    Cathedral. Alternatively, join your Local Expert through the Jewish

    Quarter and hear about the history, traditions and legends of the

    Jewish people and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry. Then,

    the city is all yours to explore. Perhaps rummage through the

    renowned antique stores or shop for the nest Bohemian crystal?

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Royal, Prague

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Traditional Dinner & Folklore Entertainment - Hearty and delicious, Czech cuisine borrows heavily from its Central European

    neighbours, but also boasts a few unique twists of its own. In a local restaurant, enjoy a traditional Czech meal accompanied by the

    planet's most perfect pilsner. During dinner, lively musicians in traditional dress set the mood with songs and dances from Bohemia,

    Moravia and Slovakia.

    Adult: 73.00 EUR

    Day 5 | Through Bohemia to Budapest

    Start the day with a journey through the beautiful forested

    countryside of Bohemia. Travel to Hungary, following the River

    Danube to Budapest. In the evening, join a Local Expert to enjoy a

    scenic dinner cruise, gliding past UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

    The city’s spectacular nighttime beauty earns it the nickname

    'Pearl of the Danube’.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

    Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn, Budapest

    Day 6 | Budapest, Queen of the Danube

    Drive along the beautiful Andrassy Avenue to Heroes' Square.

    Stroll through the alleys of the Old Town of Buda and admire

    sweeping views from the Fisherman’s Bastion with a Local Expert.

    Stand atop Gellért Hill where the colossal Liberty Statue stands in

    front of the Citadella watching over the city. Marvel at extensive

    panoramic views as you look out over the famous river dividing

    Buda and Pest - the two sides linked by the mighty Chain Bridge

    and the elegant, newer Elizabeth Bridge.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn, Budapest

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Excursion to Szentendre with Light Lunch - We'll take a fascinating excursion with our Local Expert past the remains of the Roman

    settlement of Aquincum and alongside the Danube, to the picturesque riverside village of Szentendre. An orientation walk through the

    cobbled streets leads to the main square reveals a delightful array of craft shops, art museums and galleries. Learn about regional cuisine

    during a Goulash cooking demonstration before sampling this essential Hungarian dish during lunch. After lunch, continue your

    exploration of the city's quaint streets, then return to Budapest.

    Adult: 67.00 EUR

    Dinner And Viennese Concert - Embrace the enchanting culture of Vienna as you enjoy a superb dinner with drinks, followed by a

    concert of classical music including the works of Johan Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. With ‘A Class’ tickets and a

    complimentary glass of sparkling wine or juice to enjoy during the intermission, you’ll love this unique travel experience in the Austrian

    capital. Please note: on occasion a small gift will be oered in place of a glass of sparkling wine.

    Adult: 123.00 EUR

    Day 7 | The Flavours of Budapest

    This morning, visit Liszt Academy. Continue your travels to the

    Austrian border and through pleasant farming country to Vienna.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Hilton Vienna Park

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Gala Viennese Concert - Enjoy a wonderful concert of Viennese Classical music performed by highly acclaimed soloists and dancers.

    During this special evening, enjoy a glass of champagne along with some of the most famous works by Johann Strauss and Wolfgang

    Amadeus Mozart.

    Adult: 68.00 EUR

    * On occasion, dinner will be included for EURO 123.

    ** On 24 & 25 December, the price of both options will increase due to holiday rates.

    Dinner And Viennese Concert - Embrace the enchanting culture of Vienna as you enjoy a superb dinner with drinks, followed by a

    concert of classical music including the works of Johan Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. With ‘A Class’ tickets and a

    complimentary glass of sparkling wine or juice to enjoy during the intermission, you’ll love this unique travel experience in the Austrian

    capital. Please note: on occasion a small gift will be oered in place of a glass of sparkling wine.

    Adult: 123.00 EUR

    Day 8 | Vienna and the Habsburgs

    In the morning, there is the option to join a private tour of Maria

    Theresa's Schönbrunn Palace and formal gardens. Later, join your

    Local Expert for a walk through Innere Stadt, the rst district and

    historic core of Vienna. Get your camera ready for a drive around

    the famous Ring Road. This grand boulevard, built along the lines

    of the old city walls, showcases many of the capital's architectural

    masterpieces, including the Opera House, magnicent Hofburg

    Imperial Residence and Parliament building. Sit down for traditional

    coee and delicious treats and mingle with locals at a cosy café.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Hilton Vienna Park

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens - The Imperial Summer Palace of Schönbrunn oers an amazing journey through the centuries of

    Habsburg rule. It is perfectly preserved and richly decorated with treasures from around the globe. Each room has a story to tell, so of

    course, you’ll have a Local Expert to bring it to life and VIP entrance to make the most of your time.

    Adult: 59.00 EUR

    * This optional experience involves reservation and entrance pre-payments. Cancellation's will incur a 50% cancellation fee.

    You will be oered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:

    Dinner In A Country Mansion - Cross the Danube, passing the famous Prater Park en route to one of Austria's most famous

    restaurants. Former patrons include Napoleon, the Emperor Franz Joseph, Liz Taylor and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Once through the

    door of this historic country mansion you're transported to a dierent world! Old memorabilia, autographed photos and other

    paraphernalia cover the ceilings, walls and even the restrooms. Choose from traditional Austrian fare, enjoy unlimited drinks and be

    serenaded by musicians at your table. A fun-lled experience never to be forgotten!

    Adult: 73.00 EUR

    Vienna Woods & Heurigen Dinner - Escape central Vienna and drive out to the thickly forested hills which surround the city's western

    ank for a lively evening of food, wine and song. In a typical "Heuriger" village tavern, enjoy a wonderful dinner of authentic fare, complete

    with live Schrammelmusik and the famous full-bodied wines.

    Adult: 68.00 EUR

    Day 9 | Lake Wörthersee to Venice

    This day's route takes you past quiet villages, through Styria's

    forested mountains and into the Carinthian Lake District.

    Continue past Europe's warmest lake, the Wörthersee, to cross

    into Italy near Tarvisio. Then follow mountain valleys and cascading

    streams down to the Veneto Plain en route to the unique city of

    Venice. Arrive by private boat to your hotel. In the late afternoon

    and early evening, sip a cocktail on the corner of Piazza San Marco,

    whilst you are serenaded by an ensemble of talented musicians.

    Afterwards, stroll past the Doges Palace and the famous 'Bridge

    of Sighs' to a local restaurant in the heart of the San Marco

    'sestieri' for a magical dinner.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

    Hotel: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice

    Day 10 | The Magic of 'La Serenissima'

    In the morning, prepare to embrace this most romantic city. Visit

    St. Mark's Square, dominated by its magnicent basilica and

    overlooked by the great Clock Tower. Also in the square stands

    the immense Campanile and Doge's Palace which is connected to

    the ancient prisons by the Bridge of Sighs. Join a MAKE TRAVEL

    MATTER® Experience as you witness the skill of glassblowers on a

    visit to a traditional arts centre. The rest of the day is free. Perhaps

    shop in the small arcades or why not cruise the Venetian lagoon to

    the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine?

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hotel: Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio, Venice

    OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

    Experience Venice by Gondola Serenade - Glide gracefully on a gondola along Venice’s dreamy, narrow waterways; full of character and

    colour. While your gondolier navigates the canals, you can take in the city’s elegant architecture. And they may even serenade you with

    an Italian classic.

    Adult: 51.00 EUR

    Hidden Venice - Experience Venice's big set pieces is to miss out on a hidden world full of surprises! Join a Local Expert for a fascinating

    walk through some of the lesser known quarters of Venice. The back lanes and ‘campi’, small squares, where tourists seldom tread are full

    of history and great places to sample local life.

    Adult: 43.00 EUR

    Burano Excursion & Meal - Leave the hustle of St Mark's Square behind on a delightful private cruise around the islands of the Venetian

    lagoon. Alight at the island of Burano, a photographer's paradise, famous for its candy coloured houses, artisan lace makers and leaning

    bell tower that would give Pisa a good run for its money. Enjoy a superb meal sampling the local specialities with wine included. An

    excursion not to be missed!

    Adult: 82.00 EUR

    Day 11 | Arrivederci Venice

    Alas, you must bid farewell to this enchanting city. Your departure

    transfer arrives at Venice Marco Polo Airport.

    On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.

    Meals: Breakfast

  • Handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels in great locations

    Superior dining in top rated restaurants

    Daily breakfasts & many relaxed morning starts after 9am

    24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert Driver

    ‘Business Class’ style coaches with extended legroom*

    Insider Access, Insightful Encounters and Insight Choice experiences

    Local discovery led by Local Experts

    All porterage, gratuities and tips

  • Booking and Payments

    • Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total tour cost is required to confirm your booking.

    • Final Payment: The balance must be paid in full 90 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your booking.

    Cancellations and Refunds

    • Cancellation by Client:

    • More than 90 days before departure: Loss of deposit.

    • 30-90 days before departure: 65% of the total tour cost.

    • Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total tour cost.

    • Cancellation by Company: We reserve the right to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, a full refund will be provided.

    • Changes to Itinerary

    • Flexibility Required: Weather and road conditions may necessitate changes to the planned route and itinerary. Flexibility is essential.

    • Substitutions: We reserve the right to substitute accommodations and services of similar standard when necessary.

    Travel Insurance

    • Mandatory: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, personal injury, and emergency evacuation is mandatory for all participants.

    • Proof Required: Proof of insurance must be provided before the tour begins.

    Health and Safety

    • Fitness Level: A reasonable level of fitness is required for participation in the activities outlined in the tour itinerary.

    • Medical Conditions: Participants must disclose any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.

    Liability

    • Responsibility: The company will not be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage to personal property that occurs during the tour.

    • Third-Party Services: The company is not responsible for the actions or omissions of third-party providers, such as airlines or accommodation services.

    Visas and Documentation

    • Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date.

    • Visas: Obtaining necessary visas and travel documents is the responsibility of the participant.

    Conduct

    • Respect for Culture: Participants are expected to respect local customs and cultures.

    • Behavior: Disruptive or harmful behavior may result in the participant being asked to leave the tour, with no refund provided.

    Complaints

    • Immediate Reporting: Any complaints should be reported immediately to the tour leader to allow for a timely resolution.

    • Post-Tour Complaints: Complaints must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the tour's conclusion.

    By booking this tour, you agree to adhere to these terms and conditions.

 

Travellers photos