European Adventure Barcelona to Prague - 17 Days

Welcome to Barcelona! Upon your arrival, we will arrange your transfer to the hotel, where you can relax and settle in. Spend this free time to explore the vibrant city at your own pace or indulge in some local cuisine. In the afternoon, you will find all the essential information regarding the start of your tour on the notice boards at the hotel reception. Enjoy your first evening in this beautiful city, soaking in the Spanish atmosphere and preparing for the exciting journey ahead. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

Our day begins in vibrant Barcelona, a city rich in history and known for its stunning modernist architecture. This morning, we'll set off to explore the City of Counts, famous for its impressive array of works by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, as well as the lively atmosphere of Las Ramblas. As we tour this captivating city, you'll gain insight into its historical milestones, like the Universal Exposition and the Olympics, which have contributed to making Barcelona one of Europe's most intriguing capitals.

In the evening, we leave Barcelona and venture northwards into the beautiful region of Catalonia. Our journey takes us to Girona, a city celebrated for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Before settling into our accommodation, we'll take a stroll through Girona's historic centre, where you'll be enchanted by its colourful houses along the river, the ancient Jewish Quarter, and its magnificent cathedral that stands as a testament to the city's rich past.

On the third day of our journey, we will venture into France, traversing the scenic Provence region. Our first destination is the small city of Arles, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its rich association with the artist Van Gogh, Arles offers fascinating historical sights including a Roman theatre and several charming Romanesque churches. You will have some time to explore the city's highlights and enjoy lunch at your leisure.

Continuing our French adventure, we'll visit the Carrières des Lumières. This unique underground art installation showcases a mesmerising combination of art, images, and sound within the setting of a historic quarry. Please note that if tickets for this popular attraction are unavailable, we will ensure an equally intriguing experience with a visit to the grand Pont du Gard, an iconic Roman aqueduct.

In the evening, we will arrive in Chambéry, the enchanting capital of the historical region of Savoy. With its captivating medieval character, Chambéry boasts a beautiful historic centre and an impressive castle. The day will conclude here with the opportunity to soak in the local atmosphere and perhaps explore on your own.

Today, we'll set off to Switzerland, arriving at our first stop, Geneva. With our guide, we'll explore several of the city's highlights, including the Palais des Nations, which serves as the headquarters for the United Nations in Europe. We'll also enjoy a stroll through the beautiful English Garden, with its iconic flower clock, and admire the stunning Jet d'Eau, the tallest fountain in Europe.

Our adventure continues as we journey to the charming medieval village of Gruyères, renowned worldwide for its cheese. Nearby, we'll have the opportunity to visit some of Switzerland's major chocolate factories, including the famous Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory, where you can indulge in a delicious tasting experience.

Next, we'll travel along picturesque roads, passing through serene mountain landscapes and quaint wooden villages, until we reach Chillon Castle, which stands majestically on the shores of Lake Geneva. Admission to this captivating castle is included in our tour.

In the afternoon, we'll arrive in Leysin, a picturesque holiday village boasting spectacular views of the Rhône Valley and Mont Blanc. Known for its excellent winter sports and hiking opportunities, Leysin offers a perfect retreat. Dinner is included in our stay. Please note: Accommodation may sometimes be arranged in another equally charming Swiss town nestled in the Alps, such as Martigny, depending on availability.

On the fifth day of our journey, prepare yourself for a day filled with breathtaking alpine vistas. Don't forget to pack your winter gear as we set off to explore the enchanting landscapes of Switzerland. We'll take a thrilling cable car ride to Glacier 3000, one of the country's most spectacular spots where ice and snow persist throughout the year. Here, you'll not only walk across a suspended bridge linking two mountain peaks but also have the opportunity to discover the Ice Cathedral or delight in activities at the Fun Park.

Our exploration continues with a stop in Interlaken, where we'll pause for lunch, allowing you to savour the charm of this picturesque town nestled between two lakes. Afterwards, we head to Lucerne, a city celebrated for its beauty and cultural richness, where you'll have time to soak in the atmosphere.

In the evening, our day concludes in Zurich. Here, you'll have the chance to wander through the city's vibrant centre before settling in at our hotel. Be prepared for an unforgettable day surrounded by the stunning Swiss alpine landscape. If weather or unforeseen events impact our ability to visit Glacier 3000, rest assured we'll offer an equally captivating alternative to ensure you can still marvel at the awe-inspiring alpine environment.

On the sixth day of our journey, we depart early from Zurich, heading over the Alpine terrain into the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. Our first stop is the historical town of Bellinzona, renowned for its trio of medieval castles that are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These magnificent fortifications reflect Bellinzona’s role as a strategic stronghold in the Alps. You'll have some free time to explore the charming streets of the town centre.

Next, we cross into Italy for a visit to the picturesque town of Como, celebrated as the jewel of Lombardy. Here, you can enjoy views of the town’s lush gardens nestled beside the sparkling lake and have lunch at your leisure. We continue our travels to Milan, where our guide will take us to the impressive Piazza del Duomo. You’ll have time to wander around and soak up the vibrant atmosphere before we transfer you to your hotel for some well-deserved rest.

Today, we journey from Milan to Pisa. Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to explore the Piazza dei Miracoli, home to one of Italy's most impressive architectural ensembles. Among these, of course, is the renowned Leaning Tower of Pisa. A small tourist train will transport us to this famed square, where you can take in the remarkable sights. After our time in Pisa, we'll continue south to Rome, reaching the city later in the day.

This morning, we embark on an insightful exploration of Rome, known as the Eternal City. For three hours, our guided tour seamlessly combines walking and panoramic bus experiences to reveal the history and grandeur of Western civilisation's iconic landmarks. We will admire the Arch of Constantine and the exterior of the Colosseum, wander through the Imperial Forums, and pass by historical sites such as the Circus Maximus, the Baths of Caracalla, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, and the Pyramid of Cestius. We will also marvel at the imposing Castel Sant'Angelo before concluding our exploration at Vatican City around 11:00 a.m. After the tour, you can opt for an extended visit to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, with our guide providing all the information necessary to enrich your experience. In the evening, we will provide a transfer to the characterful Trastevere neighbourhood, known for its inviting restaurants and vibrant atmosphere. You'll have time to enjoy an evening out before we return to the hotel around 8:30 p.m.

Today, we journey from Rome to Florence, a city that exemplifies Renaissance beauty. We begin by visiting the stunning Piazzale Michelangelo, which offers breathtaking panoramas of the cityscape. After some time to appreciate the views, we will walk towards the historic centre of Florence. This is an excellent opportunity for some lunch before we embark on a guided walking tour with a local expert. You'll explore notable landmarks including the iconic Ponte Vecchio, the magnificent Duomo, and the lively Piazza della Signoria, with its open-air displays of Renaissance art. Florence is truly an open-air museum. Following the tour, you'll have free time to delve deeper into the city's treasures at your own pace. In the evening, Florence's vibrant dining scene awaits, with a diverse array of restaurants offering a variety of international cuisines.

Today, we traverse the picturesque Apennines, marvelling at the stunning mountain vistas. Our day continues with a boat journey across the Giudecca Canal, leading us to the captivating Island of Venice. Here, we’re joined by a knowledgeable local guide who will take us on a fascinating tour of the iconic St. Mark’s Square, a symbol of Venetian splendour. Our exploration includes a visit to the renowned Murano Glass Factory, where you’ll witness the intricate craftsmanship that has defined Murano glass for centuries. With the afternoon yours to freely roam, you can absorb the unique allure of Venice at your own pace. Accommodation tonight will be in the Mestre district, providing a comfortable base to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Leaving Venice behind, we journey onwards to Austria. Our first stop is Innsbruck, nestled in the heart of the Austrian Tyrol. Here, you'll have some time to wander through the historic city centre, savouring its unique alpine character, and perhaps enjoy a leisurely lunch. After exploring Innsbruck, we continue our journey along breathtakingly scenic roads, winding through the majestic mountains until we reach the charming village of Kitzbühel. Known as a premier ski resort, Kitzbühel offers a picturesque setting where snow lingers for much of the year. You'll have time to explore this delightful village before we proceed to Salzburg, famed for its musical heritage and picturesque old town. We'll arrive in Salzburg by evening, ready for you to start your exploration the next day. Please note, should the number of travellers be few, we may opt for a train journey from Venice to Innsbruck instead.

This morning, we delve into the cultural heart of Austria by exploring Salzburg, the birthplace of the legendary composer Mozart. The city boasts a captivating Renaissance and Baroque centre, each structure nestled under the imposing presence of the Hohensalzburg Fortress. From here, we continue our journey through Austria’s picturesque lakes and mountains until we arrive in St. Wolfgang, a famed pilgrimage destination that draws visitors year-round. Our next stop is Traunkirchen, a quaint village set on the shores of the stunning Traunsee Lake. Here, we embark on a delightful cruise, allowing us to admire four grand castles that grace the lake’s edge before disembarking in the charming town of Gmunden. Our day concludes with a trip to Vienna, where we will arrive in the evening, ready to explore the vibrant life of Austria’s capital.

On the thirteenth day of our journey, we will immerse ourselves in the splendour of Vienna, guided by a local expert. This panoramic tour will take us through the city's grand avenues, past stunning palaces, serene parks, and lively city streets. In the afternoon, you will have the freedom to discover Vienna at your own pace, perhaps by exploring its celebrated coffee culture or visiting one of its many museums. As evening approaches, we will provide a transfer to the picturesque district of Grinzing, once a quaint wine-growing village now beloved for its traditional taverns. Here, you can enjoy dinner in one of the charming eateries, soaking in the authentic Viennese atmosphere.

Today, we travel from Vienna to Budapest, reaching the captivating Hungarian capital after approximately three hours on the road. Upon arrival, we go straight to the bustling Váci Street, where you can enjoy some leisure time for lunch amidst its vibrant atmosphere. In the afternoon, we immerse ourselves in Budapest’s charm with an included boat ride on the Danube River. This memorable journey showcases the historical Buda on one bank and the modern cosmopolitan Pest on the other, offering incomparable views.

Subsequently, we embark on a panoramic tour of Budapest, famously dubbed "Queen of the Danube." As the day unfolds, you will have additional free time to explore this lively city at your leisure. In the evening, there's an optional outing to experience a Magyar cultural show, complete with dinner, providing a delightful insight into local traditions.

Today, we depart early from Budapest and make our way to Bratislava, the picturesque capital city of Slovakia, located along the scenic banks of the Danube. You'll have the opportunity to wander through its charming historic centre and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Our adventure continues as we journey towards the Czech Republic, arriving in the enchanting city of Prague by the evening. We’ll take you to the Old Town Square, known for its lively ambience and vibrant activities, making it a perfect introduction to this captivating city. As you explore, you’ll find numerous dining options, where you can savour a diverse range of cuisines, from Czech and Italian to Chinese and Indian. After dinner, we'll return to our hotel to rest for the night.

Today, we will explore Prague, a Baroque gem in Europe's crown. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, we will embark on a panoramic tour highlighting the city's most prominent landmarks and historical sites. Our adventure includes a visit to the impressive Prague Castle, with admission covered. Following this, we will enjoy a delightful boat trip on the Vltava River, offering a unique perspective of the city's stunning architecture. The afternoon is yours to discover Prague at your leisure, allowing you the freedom to delve deeper into its culture, unwind in a cosy café, or visit any attractions that pique your interest.

As you enjoy breakfast on your final morning in Prague, your incredible journey draws to a close. We hope you've made lasting memories and taken in the remarkable experiences from each destination throughout your travels. Safe journey onwards!