College Break – Ultimate Europe

• Arrive at the airport and meet your fellow travelers and your Tour Director.
• Drop your things at your accommodations and meet your Tour Director for a walking tour of the area, including the cobblestone alleyways of the Gothic Quarter.
• Stroll down Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s iconic pedestrian boulevard. Street performers, flower stalls, and cafes fill the street and La Boqueria, Barcelona’s most famous market, fills your belly.

• Keep an eye out for Gaudí’s other works across the city, especially Casa Batlló and La Sagrada Familia, the world-famous basilica that has been under construction for more than 140 years—boomer.
• See Barcelona’s 1992 Olympic Park, perched along the Mediterranean Sea. Built for the Summer Olympics, the park transformed the city’s waterfront with iconic venues like the Palau Sant Jordi and Montjuïc Olympic Stadium. Today it’s a mix of sports history, stunning ocean views, and a reminder of Barcelona’s moment on the world stage.
• Listen for the sounds of both Spanish and Catalan—many Barcelonians are fluent in both. Spanish is spoken everywhere, while Catalan, the region’s historic language, often appears on menus, signs, and other public spaces.

Arc de Triomf: Built as the main entrance for the 1888 Barcelona World Fair, the intricate brickwork of this gate now leads to Ciutadella Park.

Castle Montjuïc: Gaze down on the Mediterranean from this old fortification that once guarded the harbor below and is named for the hill on which it sits.

• After checking into your hotel, meet your Tour Director for a walking orientation of nearby cafes, metro stops, and the best late-night pastry shops for emergencies. Knowing where the nearest boulangerie is will change your life here.
• Cap the night with an included Seine River cruise that glides past Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower. Seeing Paris from the water gives you the city’s scale and romance in a single, swooping view. The glow of the bridges and the reflection on the water sets the tone for the days ahead and is an instant “I’m really here” moment.
• Stand in awe under the Eiffel Tower as the lights sparkle in the night. Pro tip: this happens every hour on the hour.

• Walk through Montmartre’s winding streets with your local guide and soak up the bohemian history that inspired painters like Picasso and Van Gogh.
• Stroll down the iconic Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe; the avenue is as much a fashion runway as it is a history lesson, with flagship boutiques and cafes lining the route.
• Spend the afternoon exploring museum options, cafe culture, or sipping bubbles before choosing your evening vibe—dive into bistros for a long meal or find a club for a party only Paris can throw.

The Louvre: Once the home of French kings and now the largest art museum in the world, this astounding collection of art from around the world is not to be missed. From the Palace to the glass Pyramid to the Mona Lisa itself, you’ll be surrounded by history and beauty at every turn.

Moulin Rouge: The original version of this famed cabaret burned down in 1915, but the birthplace of the modern can-can dance lives on. Just look for the large red windmill on the roof, buy yourself a ticket, and then send your friends the pics to prove it.

Catacombs of Paris: Dare to step through the “Gate of Hell” on your way below the city streets and you’ll be greeted by walls of stacked skulls and bones of past Parisians. Once only considered a novelty, this absolutely eerie attraction is now designated as an official museum.

Montmartre cafes: Spend the afternoon cafe-hopping in Montmartre—lounge with an espresso, try a tartelette, and watch the city go by as you soak in the atmosphere. You’ve seen the pink cafe on IG, and now you get to experience it.

• Explore London’s most iconic sites guide who knows every royal scandal, historic detail, and fun fact worth repeating. 
• See legendary stops like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Piccadilly Circus as you walk through London’s neighborhoods. 
• Experience a royal ritual during the Changing of the Guards, a traditional ceremony where the New Guard takes over duties from the Old Guard in front of Buckingham Palace. 
• Enjoy the rest of your afternoon to shop, explore museums, or grab fish and chips by the Thames.

The British Museum: Discover over 2 million years of human history at this free museum. With over 8 million objects and counting, it is one of the largest and most comprehensive collections in existence—so don’t expect to see it all.

Westminster Abbey: This historic, royal church is the traditional place of coronation and burial for British monarchs. The mainly Gothic façade leads to a gorgeous array of paintings, stained glass, and artifacts. Get yourself a ticket and you’ll be treated to more than just a house of worship.

Abbey Road: Want to walk in the literal footsteps of greatness? Head over to this famous thoroughfare and make your way to its southeastern end. There you’ll find the studio where the Beatles recorded their final studio album and the crosswalk they made famous with its cover.

Harrods: You don’t have to buy a ticket to get into the world’s most famous department store, but once you’re inside, all bets are off. At over a million square feet with 330 departments, its motto of “all things for all people, everywhere” makes complete sense.

• Spend one final morning exploring London.
• Travel by bus to Harwich, a coastal town located in Essex, England.
• Board your overnight ferry to the Netherlands.

Tower of London: A ticket to this historic castle is worth the price of admission. Officially named ‘Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London,’ it has been used as an armory, menagerie, and home of the Crown Jewels of England.

Covent Garden: This popular marketplace in London’s West End offers a variety of entertainment options. Check out the Royal Opera House, fashion-forward stores, a bevy of street performers by St. Paul’s Church, or one of the many pubs and restaurants.

• Wake up on the ferry and whaddya know? You’re in Amsterdam, the Venice of the North.
• Stroll through the Jordaan Neighborhood. Nestled in central Amsterdam, this upscale area is filled with art galleries, patio restaurants, cafes, and music. Yeah, sounds pretty great.
• Tour Nieuwmarkt, a lively city square, market, and nightlife hotspot. Talk about a triple-threat.
• Stop in the Red Light District, the oldest neighborhood in Amsterdam. Known for avant garde shops, art galleries, and bars, the district is more than just its reputation, it’s where locals live, work, and socialize.

Heineken Experience: Once the main brewery for this green bottled beer and now a museum, you’ll take a self-guided interactive tour to learn the history of this brew before getting to enjoy two of your own.

Poffertjes and Herring: You’ve heard of chicken and waffles, but what about pancakes and fish? No, not together, but we do recommend trying them both. Nibble small, fluffy pancakes called Poffertjes, try some fresh herring, served raw with onion.

Anne Frank Museum: Explore the life and times of Anne Frank in this preserved canal side house-turned-museum. See the secret annex where Anne, and her brave family, hid from Nazi persecution during WWII. But plan ahead, tickets have to be purchased months in advance.

Bloemenmarkt: Looking for flowers? Head to what was once the only floating flower market in the world. Today, you’ll find it bobbing on the city’s southern canal belt selling fresh flowers, gifts, and an assortment of the famously pretty Dutch tulip bulbs.

• Travel via private coach to Central Germany.
• Explore the area around your accommodations with your Tour Director.

• Hit the road toward the Czech Republic, passing through Central European landscapes that set the tone for a country known for fairytale castles, medieval towns, and a history that runs deep.
• Stop in Dresden, walk along the Elbe River, and take in a place that somehow feels both old-world and brand new at the same time.
• Roll into Prague, a city that looks like it was designed for movies, with spired rooftops, cobblestone streets, and a skyline that hasn’t changed in centuries. Prague blends medieval history with a modern student scene, legendary beer culture, and an artsy, anything-goes vibe.
• Get oriented with a walk around your neighborhood alongside your Tour Director. Scope out cafes, bars, and late-night eats, learn how to navigate the city like a local, and start mentally bookmarking spots you’ll definitely be coming back to.

• Follow a local guide through Prague’s historic neighborhoods, uncovering how centuries of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture shaped the city you see today.
• Cross the famous Charles Bridge, built in the 14th century as the main route between Prague Castle and the Old Town, and take in sweeping views of the Vltava River and the city’s spired skyline.
• Spend free time exploring on your own—wander cobblestone streets, pop into cafes or beer halls, and start finding your favorite corners of the city.

Prague Beer Museum: You won’t have to keep it down here because despite its name, this is actually a popular pub. Sample one of the 30 beers on tap, or better yet, order a flight and try a few at once. Best. Museum. Ever.

U Fleku: Want to get traditional and enjoy some beers while listening to some live tuba and accordion tunes? Of course you do. In operation since 1499, the eight halls and outdoor garden provide plenty of places to get to the bottom of your beer.

John Lennon Wall: Since the 1980 assassination of Lennon, this once ordinary wall has been filled with Lennon-inspired graffiti and lyrics from Beatles songs. Located near the French Embassy, an unknown artist painted the first decoration, but you’re encouraged to leave your own mark on this monument to art.

Trdelník: From the moment you smell these chimney cakes, your mouth will water. It’s basically a bunch of dough topped with cinnamon sugar and then cooked on a spit over an open fire. Eat it plain or add some toppings—just make sure you have one.

• Follow a local guide on a tour of Munich’s main attractions including Frauenkirche, Marienplatz, and Glockenspiel.
• Tempt yourself with the delicious array of food and drink in the massive farmer’s market and beer garden of Viktualienmarkt.
• Stop by one of Munich’s famous beer halls and have a stein on your own dime.

BMW Museum: Pick up a ticket and discover an impressive collection of over 120 of BMW’s most valuable and attractive automobiles and motorcycles. The past, present, and future are all on display at this monument to German innovation and engineering.

Bike through the Englischer Garten: One of the world’s largest urban parks at over 900 acres, this English style garden has a lot to explore. Pedal your way by the Japanese teahouse, a stream with a standing wave surfed by locals, and more.

• Climb aboard your Lucerne-bound private coach bus for a scenic ride across the German and Swiss countryside.
• Continue to the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, perched high in the Bavarian Alps. Built by King Ludwig II in the 1800s, its turrets, frescoes, and mountain views inspired Disney’s iconic Magic Kingdom castle.
• Check another country off your list as you arrive in Lucerne, Switzerland.

• Get introduced to the region with a guided tour from your Tour Director.
• Follow your nose in search of famous Swiss chocolate.
• Look up—way up—at the massive mountains that surround you.

• Take advantage of a short stop in Como and explore the charming lakeside town set against the towering Alps.
• Get familiar with the area around your hotel with an introductory walk with your Tour Director.
• Travel by boat to Santa Margherita, a lively, student-friendly neighborhood known for its local cafes, laid-back bars, and everyday Venetian vibe. Join a walking tour through canals and small squares to see a side of Venice that feels more lived-in than touristy—and a favorite hangout for locals and university students.

• Arrive in St. Mark’s Square in style on a private boat; the square is home to treasures like the Basilica di San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, and Caffè Florian, one of the oldest continually operating cafes in the world.
• Stroll through picture-perfect piazzas with your local guide, visiting historic churches like San Zulian and the Church of the Greeks with its distinctive leaning bell tower. Along the way, marvel at the 15th-century spiral staircase of Scala Contarini del Bovolo, a hidden architectural gem.
• Enjoy snacks from one of Venice’s top pasticcerias before ending with a brief glassblowing demonstration by one of the city’s master glassblowers at the Vecchia Murano glass factory.

Gondola Ride on the Grand Canal: What better way to experience a city known for its bridges and canals than with a gondola ride down the grandest of them all? Your Tour Director will point you in the right direction if decide you want a ride but finding the gondoliers yourself won’t be hard either—just look for their traditional uniform of black pants and striped shirts.

Libreria Acqua Alta: Calling itself the most beautiful bookstore in the world, this gem is absolutely worth the visit. Wander through charming rooms stacked wall-to-wall with books in this unique shop that battles the nearly constant flooding by placing some of its books in waterproof basins, bathtubs, and boats.

• Cross the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest and most iconic bridge, lined with historic workshops that have housed artisans and merchants for centuries. What’s that mean for you? Jewelry that actually fits your budget and one of the best sunset photos in the world.
• Stroll the Piazza della Signoria, home to Florence’s seat of power, the Palazzo Vecchio, as well as several intricate sculptures.
• Visit the Duomo Cathedral. Return during your free time if you’re up to climb the 463 steps to the top. Highly recommend btw—it’s the type of experience you’ll remember forever with a view that’ll likely be your lock screen for a year or so.

Touch grass: Loggia dei Lanzi is an open air sculpture museum, with a number of Renaissance statues. It’s beautiful, it’s in the open, and it’s free.

Stock up on leather: Florence is known for its plethora of leather goods, from belts and jewelry to purses and wallets.

• Board your private coach, bound for Florence, and stop in Orvieto. Hey reader, right now would be a great time to Google image Orvieto. Kinda feels like Elsa and Anna’s vacation home minus the ice right?
• Seek out a glass of Orvieto Classico. This is a local, dry white wine that is literally ancient history. This has been the local pour for over (checks math, this can’t be right) 2,500 years (!!).
• Settle into your accommodations in Rome. It’s a great night for pasta, isn’t it?

Piazza del Campidoglio: Michelangelo didn’t invent the square, but he did revolutionize it when he designed this city meeting spot on top of the Capitoline Hill. Municipal politics never looked so Instagrammable.

Porchetta: You didn’t come all the way to Rome to not pig out. Ask your Tour Director where you can find an authentic spot for Porchetta—a delicacy of roasted pig with herbs and garlic served fresh from the countryside.

• Experience the heart of ancient Rome with a visit to the Forum, once the center of daily public life, commerce, politics, and social gatherings for over a thousand years. It’s a sprawling ruin now, but you can still feel the weight of history among the foundations, walls, and columns that remain.
• Look out over the Forum from Capitoline Hill, one of Rome’s Seven Hills, home to the Michelangelo-designed Piazza del Campidoglio and the Capitoline Museums, the world’s oldest public museum stuffed with art and archaeological treasures.
• Gawk at the ruins of the Colosseum, Rome’s iconic amphitheater that hosted epic gladiator battles and grand spectacles for up to 50,000 spectators. Once your tour is over, make sure to ask your Tour Director about actually going inside for a deeper dive into history. No, you cannot fight your ex inside.

Catacombs of San Callixtus: See dead people (or at least where they used to be) at Rome’s largest underground catacombs, nearly 2,000 years old.

Via dei Condotti: Stroll this “who’s who” street of high fashion shops, including Armani, Prada, Versace, and Gucci—all of which once charged entrance fees—ultimately culminating at the famous Spanish Steps.

Dancing in Testaccio: They don’t call it the Eternal City for nothing—keep the party going all night at one of the Testaccio Neighborhood’s many glamorous nightclubs.

Shopping on Vide del Corso: Walk down the longest pedestrian street in the city for some prime shopping. Populated by both locals and tourists, there’s room for everyone on the narrow store-filled street.

Sunset at Piazza del Popolo: Experiences one of Rome's most famous squares at sunset is magical. For even more magic, climb the Pincio Terrace for panoramic views of the city.

Pantheon at night: Seeing the Pantheon after dark is a whole different experience. The square in front of it becomes much quieter and the building itself is beautifully illuminated.

• Hop a morning flight from Rome to Athens—continuing on the Mediterranean leg of your adventure.

Psiri: Think of Psiri as the Brooklyn of Athens: impossibly hip, and filled with opportunities to dance, drink, or just hang out.
Loukoumades: Sample a food that sounds better with each word: a deep fried donut covered in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon.

• Climb the Acropolis, Athens' most iconic hilltop citadel, and UNESCO World Heritage Site, with your local guide. Perched high above the city, the Acropolis was both a religious and cultural center of Ancient Athens, and home to its most important temples. The Acropolis is dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, who was also the city’s protector?
• Wander through the Propylaea and the Temple of Athena Nike. The monumental gateway and temple dedicated to victory in battle were built into the natural landscape with incredible precision—without a single drop of modern machinery.
• Stop by the Theatre of Dionysus, the birthplace of drama. This ancient open-air theater could seat up to 17,000 spectators and hosted the original performances of plays by Sophocles, Euripides, and Aeschylus.
• Soak up panoramic views of Athens below, with Mount Lycabettus and the Aegean Sea in the distance. From this “high city,” you’ll understand why ancient Athenians believed they were blessed by the gods—and why sunsets here are legendary.

Gyros: Go on the prowl for the beloved national sandwich of Greece, consisting of thin sliced meat, tomatoes, lettuce, tzatziki, onions and fries stuffed in a warm pita. Are you salivating yet?

Monastiraki Flea Market: Ah, the last day of vacation. The perfect time to remember you promised everyone back home souvenirs. Not to fear, Monastiraki Flea Market has you covered.

• Depart Athens in the morning.
• Arrive in Paros and check in to your accommodation.
• Join your Tour Director for a hand-picked a group activity, or plot your own adventure; you’re free to customize your day any way you’d like!

Sunset: Enjoy a legendary Paros sunset anywhere on the western coast of the island.

Naoussa Nightlife: When the sun sets, everyone on the island heads from the beaches to the bars; Naoussa is where it begins and ends.

• Free day! Your Tour Director may coordinate a group activity, but you’re welcome to experience Paros as you’d like.

Chill Out: Try a quiet meal or drink inland at the village of Lefkes, a serene and rustic village in the hills above the beaches.

Go Back in Time: Stroll Parikia’s narrow, pebble-lined streets and the Frankish Castle built from the masonry originally used on an ancient temple.

• Board your ferry to Athens.
• Share some laughs (and maybe shed a few tears) at an included Farewell Dinner.