Grand Tour of Europe

Itinerary

• Day 1: Overnight Flight

  Board your overnight flight bound for London. Your adventure begins tomorrow, so sit back, shut your eyes, and do as the English do and try and catch some “zeds.”

• Day 2: Arrive in London + Welcome Dinner

  Welcome to London. Home of the royal fam, tea, a wonderfully different form of the English language, and the largest city in Western Europe. Brimming with history and unique architecture, you’ll soon understand why it’s one of the most visited cities in the world.

  In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner of local cuisine and drinks with fellow travelers at an authentic local spot. Afterwards, you’re free to take the party elsewhere!

  Today's highlights:

  • Land at the airport and meet a waiting EF representative.
  • Transfer to your hotel to check in and check out your room.
  • Get familiar with the area around your hotel with an introductory walk with your Tour Director including the River Thames, Trafalgar & Leicester Squares, and Convent Garden.
• Day 3: Sightseeing Tour of London + Optional London Eye & Tea

  Go big and go British today as a local guide takes you all around town for the inside scoop on London’s iconic palaces, churches, castles, and yes, even a big old clock.

  Today's highlights:

  • Dive into thousands of years of London’s secrets with a local guide.
  • Immerse yourself in London’s rich history at gorgeous landmarks from the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral to Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament.
  • Experience a royal ritual during the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace.
  • Wave hello to Big Ben, the bell inside the famous clock tower.

  Free time suggestions

  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.

  London Eye & Tea (extra cost)

  Ride Europe’s tallest Ferris wheel for panoramic views before enjoying a traditional English tea.
  
  This excursion is pre-book only; if your trip is less than fourteen days away, please call 800-766-2645 to purchase.

• Day 4: Free Day in London

  Use this free day to check out and check off anything you may have missed in one of the world’s greatest cities. Dive in and act like you belong with some local slang, try some famous fare (looking at you, fish and chips), and explore until you’re too knackered (tired) to continue.

  Free time suggestions

  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.

• Day 5: Travel to Paris + Sightseeing Tour

  Bonjour, France! Today you’ll take a ferry ride to the City of Light, also known as the capital and most populous city in France. Get ready to feast on croissants, baguettes, and any other deliciousness you can get your hands on while enjoying every moment as a temporary Parisian.

  Today's highlights:

  • Marvel at the White Cliffs of Dover as you sail away from the British Isles.
  • Follow your Tour Director on a walking tour of the city and its sights including the legendary Notre-Dame Cathedral.
  • Float down the River Seine during a scenic boat ride that makes its way through the true heart of the city.
  • Watch the world-famous lights of the Eiffel Tower sparkle (every hour, on the hour after sunset).
• Day 6: Tour Paris + Optional Versailles Excursion

  Take the best bus ride of your life on this guided bus tour around Paris. See famous sights like the Arc de Triomphe, explore on foot during a couple of planned stops, and hope that there’s enough time to stop by Le Marais—the trendiest shopping area in the city.

  Please note: The Palace of Versailles is closed on Mondays. If Day 6 falls on a Monday for your departure, this optional will take place on Day 7.

  Today's highlights:

  • Saunter along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Known for its theatres and cafes—you may also recognize it as the finish line of the Tour de France.
  • Get the inside scoop on Parisian culture from fashion to snails for dinner, learn about it all.
  • Find inspiration from the local fashionistas, royals, revolutionaries, and intellectuals that shaped the City of Light.

  Free time suggestions

  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.
  Montmartre: Once an artists’ village and the stomping grounds of Picasso and Dalí, this charming hilltop district is now home to numerous nightclubs and the white-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur. Walk its steep, winding streets for sweeping views of the city below.

  Versailles (extra cost)

  Walk through the landscaped gardens, and tour the living quarters of the famous over-the-top palace of Louis XIV. This is where French royalty reveled in their extravagant lifestyle in the decades before the Revolution.
  
  Please note: The Palace of Versailles is closed on Mondays. In the event that the itinerary day containing this optional lands on a Monday for your departure, the optional will take place the following day.
  
  This excursion is pre-book only; if your trip is less than 30 days away, please call 800-766-2645 to purchase.

• Day 7: Free Day in Paris

  Oui! A free day to wander the city of love. Get inspired, get lost, and get your fill of new foods like coq au vin (chicken braised with wine). At over 40 square miles there’s always something new to discover, so keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready.

  Free time suggestions

  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.
  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.

• Day 8: Travel to Amsterdam

  Trade croissants for canals, you’re on your way to Amsterdam. There’s so much to love, from the canals to Van Gogh to the legendary, laid-back attitude. Seriously, how many cities do you know of with floating houses and hot waffles with caramel served anytime of the day?

  Today's highlights:

  • Say goodbye to Paris and travel by bus to Amsterdam.
  • Take a brief walk of the area with your Tour Director.
• Day 9: Explore Amsterdam + Optional Dutch Countryside Bike Tour

  Walk or ride across the countless bridges, wonder what it’s like to live in a houseboat, and maybe even stop by one of the coffeeshops that don’t just sell coffee.

  Free time suggestions

  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.

  Dutch Countryside Bike Tour (extra cost)

  Bike like a local into the stunning Dutch countryside. Ride through rural landscapes past picturesque windmills and 17th century villages, then enjoy pancakes and a drink in the quaint Waterland region by the sea.
  
  Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

• Day 10: Free Day in Amsterdam

  By now, you’ve probably realized Amsterdam is not your average city. It’s a multicultural, waffle-filled, coffee-loving place, home to some really friendly people. Spend the day exploring on your own and get a feel for the city’s history and culture.

  Free time suggestions

  Heineken Experience: Whether you’re a big beer fan or just thirsty, this is a stop you’ll want to make. 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.

• Day 11: Travel to Central Germany

  You’re only one third of the way through your journey around Europe. This calls for a celebratory beer! Or as they call it where you’re going, a stein. Cross another country off your list and enjoy a relaxing stop in Central Germany.

  Today's highlights:

  • Travel via private coach to Central Germany.
  • Explore the area around your accommodations with your Tour Director.
• Day 12: Travel to Lucerne Region

  Prepare for a scenic ride through the European countryside! Watch as rolling hills give way to majestic, snow-capped Alps. You're headed to Switzerland.

  Today's highlights:

  • Depart Germany via private coach in the morning.
  • Sit back and relax as you take in some of Europe's most dreamlike landscapes.
  • Arrive in the Lucerne region and check in to your accommodation.

  Free time suggestions

  Louis Bar: Ride a funicular to the lobby of this “art deco” hotel, classier than Sir Ian McKellen sipping fine bourbon whilst reading leather-bound literature.
  Alpetizers: Try some hearty Swiss dishes, like rösti (potato cake), chügelipastete(veal with creamy mushroom sauce served in puff pastry), or weiner schnitzel (fried veal or pork; fun to say).

• Day 13: Experience Switzerland + Optional Swiss Alps Adventure

  Today you’ll experience why people are flocking to Switzerland (and it’s not just for the chocolate and cheese). Walk the streets of historic Lucerne, and marvel at the snowy Swiss Alps in the distance.

  Today's highlights:

  • Walk the narrow streets and take in the incredible mountain scenery with your Tour Director.
  • See the one-of-a-kind Löwendenkmal, a surprisingly impressive and massive rock carving of a dying lion, carved to commemorate the Swiss Guards who were killed during the French Revolution.
  • Wander the maze-like, cobblestone streets of Old Town Lucerne.

  Swiss Alps Adventure (extra cost)

  Ride a gondola above the tree line of Mt. Titlis, then a panoramic cable car to the summit. At the top, there'll be plenty of time for tubing, sledding, yodeling, ice tunnel spelunking, or just plain old view enjoying.
  
  Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

• Day 14: Travel to Venice via Como

  You’re off to the Venice Region, otherwise known as Veneto. Once one of the richest and largest maritime trade empires in the world, the sheer number of canals, bridges, and boats should come as no surprise. You’ll drop off your bags, stretch your legs, then explore the area around your accommodations with your Tour Director.

  Today's highlights:

  • 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.
• Day 15: Sightseeing Tour of Venice

  You’ll arrive at the gorgeous St. Mark’s Square after a short boat ride into the city. You’ll be met by a local guide who’ll show you the famous sights of the city.

  Today's highlights:

  • Arrive in true Venetian style at St. Mark’s square via the Giudecca Canal.
  • Stand in the footprints of history on the Rialto Bridge, the oldest spanning the Grand Canal.
  • See for yourself why the 15th century Scala Contarini del Bovolo staircase literally means ‘of the snail’.
  • Watch a local artisan in action during a glass blowing demonstration.

  Free time suggestions

  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.

• Day 16: Travel to Rome

  Ah, the Eternal City. Home of bruschetta, Catholicism, gladiators, democracy, Michelangelo, and of course, the Roman ruins. Find yourself lost between modern time and ancient Rome while wandering through the winding croissant and cappuccino-scented streets. Not to be confused with flavored streets. Please, don’t eat the streets.

  Today's highlights:

  • Say ciao to Venice as you head to Rome on the next leg of your odyssey
  • Check in at your accommodations and get to know the area.
  • Enter the arena that is Rome—you are the gladiator, and pasta is your lion—and get your bearings for the night.

  Free time suggestions

  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.

• Day 17: Sightseeing Tour of Rome + optional Roman catacombs excursion

  They say all roads lead to Rome, but once you’re there you quickly realize that all roads actually lead to restaurants. Take the morning to satisfy your cravings and sip some espresso, then experience everything ancient Rome has to offer with a local guide.

  Please note: The Optional Roman Catacombs optional excursion will run through July 1st, 2023.

  Today's highlights:

  • Tour the city with a local guide who will show you the Roman Forum, Via dei Fori Imperiali, Piazza Venezia, Teatro Marcello, and the Roman Ghetto.

  Free time suggestions

  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.

  Roman Catacombs & St. Paul's Basilica (extra cost)

  Rome has a bit of a spooky side. Travel deep underground to catacombs built by early Christians. Then, head to St. Paul’s Basilica. Existing since at least 324 AD, they say St. Paul himself is buried there.
  
  Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

• Day 18: Free Day in Rome + Optional Vatican City Excursion

  Rome looks goooood for being 2,000 years old. (It must moisturize.) Shop, eat, drink, and talk like an Italian (with your hands) during your free time. Embrace the culture and indulge in carbs during your last day in the Eternal City. Plus, if you're up for it, join an optional excursion to the Vatican.

  Free time suggestions

  National Roman Museum: Practice your Latin at this immense collection of Ancient Roman statues, frescoes, mosaics and more, housed across four different buildings throughout the city.
  Campo de' Fiori: Veg out at the daily market held for centuries at this “field of flowers,” perfect for people watching and produce prodding.
  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.

  A Visit to the Vatican (extra cost)

  Visit the Pope’s house: Vatican City. Take a guided tour of the Vatican Museum and St. Peter's Basilica, and get your dose of art history up close and personal—viewing Michelangelo's famed Sistine Chapel frescoes.

• Day 19: Travel to Florence via Orvieto

  Watch the hills and trees of the countryside slip by out the window of your private coach before reaching Florence for the evening and deciding what’s for dinner (pizza is never not an option).

  Today's highlights:

  • Stop en route in Orvieto, to stretch your legs and snap your shutter at the never-ending Italian countryside.
  • Check in to your accommodations in Florence and see what the place has to offer.
  • Get the scoop on the area you’re staying on a short walk with your Tour Director.
• Day 20: Sightseeing Tour of Florence + Free Time

  Join a local guide as you walk to some of the most famous sights in the city while taking mental notes of the best smelling restaurants you pass for later. After all, it *is* Italy and food is kind of a big deal.

  *Note: There is no included entry to the Duomo during the guided sightseeing on this day, but you will have free time to return if you so choose.

  Today's highlights:

  • Stroll the Piazza della Signoria, home to Florence’s seat of power, the Palazzo Vecchio, as well as several intricate sculptures.
  • March your way across Ponte Vecchio, a medieval stone bridge with shops built along it (formerly butchers, now jewelers and souvenir shops).
  • Visit the final resting place of some of the most illustrious Italians such as Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli at the Basilica di Santa Croce.

  Free time suggestions

  Pitti Palace: Pitti Palace once housed the dukes of Tuscany and their extensive art collections, these days the dukes are gone but the art remains. Be sure to check out the statues in Boboli Gardens out back.
  Vivoli Gelateria: Would it really be a trip to Italy without gelato? The answer is no. Vivoli Gelateria is the local institution to go to for this frozen treat.

• Day 21: Free Day in Florence or Optional Italian Riviera & Cinque Terre

  Regarded as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, the Tuscany region is known for its landscapes, history, and artistic legacy. It is also an area known for its wine, notably Chianti, which is sure to come in handy later when you have plenty of free time on your hands.

  Free time suggestions

  San Miniato al Monte: Snap the perfect picture of Florence’s skyline after hiking up to San Miniato al Monte. No filter needed.
  Shopping in Florence: The area between Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo is ideal for fashionistas and foodies alike.

  Italian Riviera & Cinque Terre (extra cost)

  Note: This excursion is seasonal and only runs from May through September. Availability is subject to your tour’s departure date.
  
  Lay your eyes on the most beautiful coastal scenery anywhere, Cinque Terre. Discover mountainside villages, iconic colorful seaside buildings, and spend the rest of your day enjoying the pebble beaches of Monterosso.
  
  Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

• Day 22: Travel to the French Riviera via Monaco

  The French Riviera. Even the name sounds beautiful. Before you get there, check another country off your list—Monaco, the world’s second-smallest (but possibly swankiest) nation.

  • Travel through the Italian countryside en route to France.
  • Play millionaire at a stop in Monaco.
  • Feel closer than ever to Elton John, Bono, and Bill Gates (just a few of the celebs with homes in the French Riviera).
• Day 23: Explore the French Riviera + Optional French Food Tour

  Ready for a full day in Côte d'Azur (that’s what the French call the Riviera)? Trick question! The answer is always yes. Because this place is beautiful. Sundrenched beaches, historic central squares, and, of course, more food await you on this full-day Riviera adventure.

  Today's highlights:

  • Walk around an iconic French Riviera town with your Tour Director.
  • Keep your camera out for endless photo-ops along the way.

  French Food Tour (extra cost)

  Nosh like a true Niçois on a food crawl to nearly a dozen authentic hidden gems, feasting on treats like savory chickpea pancakes, stuffed peppers, and—oh yeah—plenty of wine.
  
  Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

• Day 24: Travel to Provence

  Make your way to Provence, where scenic countryside inspired artists like Vincent Van Gogh and Pablo Picasso. The vineyards are vast, the ratatouille (vegetable stew) delectable, and the lavender fields will leave you breathless—and make your nose happy.

  Today's highlights:

  • Visit Avignon, a city known for its gothic papal palace, where seven different Popes resided during the 14th century (cue “the more you know” PSA gif).
  • Check out Place de l'Horloge, Avignon’s main square named after a clock you can barely see from the square (oh, the irony).
  • Kayak the waters at the site of the highest and potentially best-looking ancient Roman aqueduct bridge at Pont du Gard, France.
• Day 25: Travel to Barcelona via Carcassonne

  You’re going to Barcelona, a city of endless parties, wacky architecture, and premium beaches (which also happen to be where the clubs are). So throw on your walking shoes, your party pants, and any shirt you’d like. Barcelona is the fiesta that keeps on fiesta…ing.

  Today's highlights:

  • Stop for a quick tour in Carcassonne, a small medieval town that’s been inhabited since the Neolithic period (i.e. a long time ago).
  • Walk through the winding streets of the fortified city with your Tour Director, and keep reminding yourself you’re not inside of a postcard.
  • Arrive in Barcelona and get acquainted with the area around your accommodations.
• Day 26: Sightseeing Tour of Barcelona + Optional Sagrada Familía Tour & Sangria

  Another day, another chance to see more of this wonderful city. Make sure your camera is handy because it won’t take long to see why Barcelona is the only city to receive a Royal Gold Medal for architecture—the buildings are basically art.

  Today's highlights:

  • Enter Park Güell, one of Antoni Gaudi’s greatest works of modernist art.
  • Check out the progress on the Sagrada Familia cathedral, an unfinished project by Gaudí that began construction in 1882.
  • Go for the gold at Olympic Park, the site of the 1992 Summer Olympics that offers spectacular views of the city.
• Day 27: Free Day in Barcelona

  New neighborhoods, restaurants, and sights beckon on this free day to explore in Barcelona. But if you can’t decide what you’d like to do, we recommend heading for the coast and enjoying some time on the beach before finding the largest plate of paella you can get your hands on.

  Free time suggestions

  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.

• Day 28: Travel to Madrid

  Grab a café con leche and hop on the bus—you’re going to Madrid. Spain’s capital is famous for its world-class art museums, live music scene, and never-ending nightlife. It seems people never sleep here...except for two hours after lunch. Madrid is a city that definitely knows how to relax and have fun.

  Today's highlights:

  • Stroll down Madrid's liveliest street, Gran Via. Your Tour Director will identify some of the city's most impressive architecture, theaters, and nightlife spots.
  • Walk through Parque del Buen Retiro, Madrid's biggest park, and keep a lookout for the trees that look like broccoli (you'll know it when you see it).
• Day 29: Sightseeing Tour of Madrid + Farewell Dinner

  A nearly endless amounts of tapas, sangria, and Spanish Golden Age architecture will greet you in this city located at the very center of Spain. Discover many of the most popular destinations before getting cultured at one of the world’s leading art museums. And remember, there’s always room for more tapas.

  Today's highlights:

  • Journey to the very heart of Madrid at the Puerta del Sol, aka the “Gate of the Sun.”
  • Shop, walk, and enjoy the outdoors and a bronze statue of King Phillip III at Plaza Mayor (Main Square).
  • Check out the Picassos and Dalís at the Reina Sofia, or see the works of the old Rennaisance masters at the Prado.

  Free time suggestions

  Mercado de San Miguel: Stunning from the outside and delicious from the inside, this must-visit market is a great spot to walk through and follow your nose to some traditional Spanish bites.
  Malasaña Neighborhood: This happening area is known for a large student population and streets filled with coffee shops, bakeries, and vintage clothing stores. Then at night, edgy dance and rock clubs come to life so you can dance the night away.

  Farewell Dinner
  Share some last laughs (and maybe shed a few tears) at an included farewell dinner with the group.

• Day 30: Fly Home

  Adiós, amigos!
  Translation: Goodbye, friends. Your next destination awaits—home. Before you head to the airport, enjoy your last few moments together. Take one more group photo. Grab that final drink. (Fine, maybe a couple of drinks.) But this isn’t goodbye. It’s “See you later.” The only question is, where?

  –OR–

  EXTEND YOUR TRIP 2 WAYS

  1. Double the fun
  A lot of our trips line up back to back! Give us a call—we can help you add another and save big while you're at it.

  2. Go ahead or stay behind
  Extending your trip is easy! During checkout, you'll have the option to fly to (or from) the gateway of your choice for an additional fee. We'll adjust your flights accordingly, but you'll be responsible to take care of your transportation, hotels, and other logistics outside of tour.

  Note: Depending on your desired gateways, additional fees may apply.