Itinerary for: European Whirl (EWHI)

• Day 1 - London – Amsterdam Greetings from our Tour Director as we drive to the coast. Admire the White Cliffs of Dover before our Channel crossing to Calais in France. Then into Belgium and across Flanders fields to Holland and meadows of turning windmills. Soon we arrive in friendly Amsterdam, where we enjoy a canal cruise across the criss-crossing spider’s web of canals from a glass–topped boat. This evening, after a Welcome Drink with our Tour Director and fellow passengers, why not enjoy dinner in one of the downtown restaurants?
  
  Hotel: Novotel City



• Day 2- Amsterdam orientation – Rhine Cruise – Rhineland (Mannheim) First, as part of our orientation tour showing us Dam square and the Mint Tower, we visit a diamond factory (time permitting). Then we drive via Arnhem – scene of the Bridge, which was too far – into Germany where we follow the Ruhr and Rhine valleys to Cologne – dominated by its fine gothic Cathedral. Then via Bonn we drive to the pretty resort of Boppard on the shores of the Rhine so as to embark on our scenic Rhine cruise. We glide past vine-clad hills topped with crumbling castles before reaching St Goar, where we see the Lorelei rock and re-join our coach for the short journey to our hotel.
  (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Mercure am Rathaus



• Day 3- Rhineland (Mannheim) – Heidelberg – Munich – Innsbruck This morning we are off to Heidelberg to view the red sandstone castle towering above the city of ‘Student Prince’ fame. We continue via the Swabian hills to fun-loving Munich, where an orientation tour shows us the Olympic Stadium, the City Hall and the Marienplatz. A short drive brings us into Austria and the valley of the River Inn, where we stop in the Tyrolean capital Innsbruck. Tonight, why not enjoy some thigh slapping fun at a Tyrolean folklore show and feast on some delicious strudel? (Buffet Breakfast)
  
  Hotel: Grauer Bar / Innsbruck



• Day 4- Innsbruck – Venice (Mestre) Orientation of this mountain ringed Alpine resort this morning shows us the Golden Roof, Hofburg and Wilten Basilica. Time to shop for souvenirs before an exhilarating drive across the Brenner Pass into Italy. Spectacular scenery continues as we travel through the Dolomite Mountains to the Adige valley and the landscapes of Shakespeare’s theatre as we pass by Lake Garda, Verona and Vicenza. On arrival in Venice we’ll savour the city’s unique sights and sounds on an included canal cruise by private motor launch to St. Mark’s Square, viewing the Bridge of Sighs, Doges’ Palace and more. After a visit to a traditional glass-blowing factory, time is your own to do as you please. We’ll enjoy dinner at our hotel this evening. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Antony Palace



• Day 5- Venice – Rome (2 nights) Today we head south along the Autostrada del Sole, across the Veneto plain, by-passing the University city of Bologna to cross over the Apennine hills and into the cradle of the Roman Civilisation – the Lazio. Then past golden stone landscapes to the Eternal City of Rome. (Buffet Breakfast)
  
  Hotel: Palazzo Carpegna / Villa Torlonia (2 nights)



• Day 6- Rome sightseeing & at leisure Our morning sightseeing with a local guide, audio system included, features a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican City where we see Michelangelo’s moving masterpiece, the Pieta. Then we cross the River Tiber to ancient Rome where we overlook the Forum, see the mighty Colosseum, scene of gladiatorial combat, and finally have a view across the vast Circus Maximus where the Ben Hur style chariot races once took place. The rest of your day is free to maybe window shop in the exclusive streets near the Spanish Steps, visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel or maybe just relax in a café and watch the Roman world go by! (Buffet Breakfast)



• Day 7- Rome – Florence Today we start the northward journey of our European circuit and drive into the vine-clad, sunflower planted hills of Tuscany. We are soon descending into the valley of the river Arno and reaching Florence, where a walking tour with a local guide shows us the main monuments and squares of this impressive Renaissance city including the Cathedral, Baptistery, Signoria Square and a visit to the Santa Croce Basilica, where the tombs of Italy’s great men throughout history are to be found. Time now for our Tour Director to reveal a Hidden Treasure! Then free time to sightsee further or to shop for fine leather goods or beautiful 18-carat gold jewellery. Tonight we will enjoy a dinner of local specialities in a Florentine trattoria. (Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Mediterraneo



• Day 8- Florence – Lugano – Lucerne (2 nights) Today we travel via Milan, through the area of the Italian Lakes to the Swiss border and the lakeside resort of Lugano. This balmy, palm-tree-lined lake resort in the Italian-speaking Ticino canton is home to the rich and famous and has a wonderful year-round climate. Time to explore the traffic-free shopping area and perhaps stop for a cappuccino in a lakeside café before a drive along the Gotthard highway into the heart of German speaking Switzerland and the lakeside town of Lucerne. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Grand Europe (2 nights)



• Day 9-Lucerne orientation and at leisure Orientation shows us the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument before free time to perhaps take a trip up a nearby mountain and shop for delicious chocolates and precision timepieces. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)



• Day 10- Lucerne – Paris (2 nights) Travelling through picturesque scenery we head towards Basel and the French Border. Entering France we pass vestiges of the Maginot line at Belfort as we travel into Burgundy resplendent with vineyards, castles and picturesque villages. Finally we arrive in Paris, where tonight you may well wish to enjoy a tour of the city’s illuminations. Buffet Breakfast)
  
  Hotel: Holiday Inn La Villette (2 nights)



• Day 11- Paris sightseeing & at leisure This morning our sightseeing tour with a local guide features a drive along the Champs Elysées from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. Then we will see spectacular monuments such as Notre Dame Cathedral and also ascend the Eiffel Tower to the second level by elevator for stunning views over the city. Then free time to perhaps take an excursion to the Palace at Versailles or to shop in the chic boutiques. Tonight we will get together with our travelling companions for a Farewell Dinner in a local bistro – a wonderful way to complete our tour of Europe! (Buffet Breakfast / Farewell Dinner)



• Day 12- Paris - London After breakfast we travel across the Battlefields of the Somme. We see the Canadian War Memorial at Vimy Ridge before we drive along the Opal Coast viewing German World War II bunkers. On our arrival i Calais, we board our ferry to Dover, where we drive back to London. Here we bid farewell to our Tour Director and newfound friends as our tour comes to an end. (Buffet Breakfast)

Sightseeing Highlights

• Amsterdam: Canal Cruise. Visit a diamond factory (time permitting).
• Rhine: Enjoy a leisurely river cruise.
• Heidelberg: View the castle.
• Munich: See the Hofbrauhaus.
• Innsbruck: See the Golden Roof.
• Rome: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, seeing Michelangelo’s ‘Pieta’.
• Florence: Guided walking tour. Visit the Santa Croce Basilica.
• Lugano: Visit the elegant resort.
• Lucerne: See the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge.
• Innsbruck Orientation including the Golden Roof, Wilten Basilica and Hofburg Palace.
• Paris Sightseeing includes views of the Champs Elysees, Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame Cathedral plus ascent to the second level of the Eiffel Tower.

• 1 Welcome Drink with your Tour Director in Amsterdam
• 11 Hot Buffet Breakafasts on tour
• 4 three-course dinners in Hotels
• 1 local speciality dinner in Florence
• 1 Farewell dinner in Paris

• Escorted by one of Trafalgar's top professional multi-lingual Tour Directors whilst touring.
• A qualified local city guide in Rome, Florence, and Paris.
• The services of a Trafalgar Representative at your London hotel.
• Chauffeur driven on Trafalgar's luxury air-conditioned coaches with onboard washroom.
• Cross-Channel ferry.
• All hotel service charges, tips, baggage handling fees and local taxes included.
• A stylish wallet, tour documents and map book journal.

• London Gateways: Transfers can be expensive, particularly between the Airport and central London. When you book your tour with Trafalgar your transfers to and from the airport are included. It's that simple. Trafalgar has included a Free transfer to and from your airport and Central London.
• Important – Please Note: Passengers will only be entitled to transfers to and from London Airports providing the following conditions are met:
• You are staying at a London hotel, booked by Trafalgar, on the night of your arrival and the night prior to the date of your departure.
• Flights are either booked by Trafalgar or detailed information on flights is provided by your Travel Agent not less than 21 days prior to departure.
• Only one included transfer both inbound and outbound per tour is included by Trafalgar. Transfers are by express train to a Central London Rail Station.
• Heathrow Express operates between 05.10-23.30. Gatwick Express operates inbound services between 05.20-23.45 and outbound services from 04.30-23.45. Transfers outside of these times are at the passengers own expense.
• In the event of unforeseen events (road or rail works, demonstrations, strikes) Trafalgar will not be held responsible for delayed or cancelled transfers.
• No refund is available for passengers not utilising this service.
• Why not upgrade to a Hotelink transfer from the Airport to-the-door of your Trafalgar London hotel? (please ask Trafalgar or your travel agent of the additional upgrade price per person when booking)
• European Gateways: With Trafalgar all passengers will receive complimentary arrival and departure transfers on the scheduled arrival and departure day of their tour at the times specified below. Please ensure your Travel Agent reserves your flight to co-ordinate with the transfer times shown.
• Trafalgar Bonus - Passengers who book Trafalgar's Land+Air package and who arrive or depart outside of these specified times on the scheduled arrival and departure day of the tour will also be provided with a transfer.
• Passengers arriving before or leaving after the scheduled tour days are not entitled to a transfer but may book and purchase one through Trafalgar providing that they also purchase the additional pre and/or post tour hotel night(s) from Trafalgar. Please ask for prices of transfers at the time of booking your extra night accommodation.
• Land only passengers arriving or departing on the scheduled tour arrival or departure days but whose flights don't coincide with the listed transfer times below may also book and purchase these transfers. Flight details must be provided to Trafalgar not less than 21 days before the flight departure.
• Click here to see scheduled transfer times.

European Whirl Optional Excursions

H1 - AMSTERDAM. Dinner at the Sea Palace
The “Sea Palace” floating restaurant is one of the most exotic restaurants in Amsterdam. Toast your new friends and savour the various delicacies prepared for your delight in one of the many exotic restaurants in Amsterdam! Drinks are also included.
50 (€)

H20b - AMSTERDAM. Dinner in a 14th century Merchant's House
Savour a meal of Dutch specialities in the elegant surroundings of a 14th century merchant's house, drinks included.
56 (€)

I25 - FLORENCE. Jewels of the Renaissance
A guided tour of the Accademia allows us to appreciate the most controversial sculpture in Italy, Michelangelo’s David. Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
34 (€)

CH1a - Happy Hour Cruise
Like CH1 and includes 2 drinks
47 (sf)

A27 - INNSBRUCK. Horse & Carriage Ride
A spectacular drive leads us to a typical mountain village. Then we enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride through the magnificent alpine scenery. We stop for a drink before our return to Innsbruck.
35 (€)

CH25 - LUCERNE. Carriages and 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 working farm where local drinks and snacks will be served at a 17th century barn.
65 (sf)

CH7 - LUCERNE. Folklore Show with Drinks
Join in the fun of a lively folklore show with typical Swiss entertainment. Drinks are provided as we enjoy, amongst other things, the yodelling, flagthrowing, Alpine horn blowing and fine musicianship of the band.
62 (sf)

CH1 - LUCERNE. Lake Cruise
Widely considered to be the most lovely 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.
37 (sf)

CH17 - LUCERNE. Lake Cruise & Mountain Excursion
On certain departures, for operational reasons CH1 and the mountain trip will be combined.
106 (sf)

CH11 - LUCERNE. Mount Pilatus
A scenic lakeshore drive brings us to our cog-wheel railway, where we board our train to the summit of Lucerne’s most well-known mountain. Here you have time to explore, admire the many sweeping views and breathe in the fresh mountain air. Later a series of cable cars will bring us gradually down through fields and forests to the foot of this majestic mountain. (On certain departures the ascent as well as the descent of the mountain will be by cable car only)
80 (sf)

CH2 - LUCERNE. Swiss Experience
Enjoy an unforgettable trip along the lake to nearby mountain slopes, and ascend by cog-wheel railway and cable car to spectacular alpine views. The mountain air will whet your appetite for a delicious lunch with drink included (one of the courses will be a cheese fondue), in one of Switzerland’s most atmospheric restaurants. Yodelling and alpine horns will contribute to your enjoyment of the accompanying traditional folklore show. (On certain departures the ascent as well as the descent of the mountain will be by cable car only).
147 (sf)

F9a - PARIS. Dinner & Montmartre or Seine Cruise. Bon appetit!
Enjoy dinner and drinks in a typical Parisian restaurant, then visit Montmarte, the old artists’ quarter made famous in the paintings of Toulouse-Lautrec and Utrillo. Dominated by the brilliant white dome of the Sacre Coeur Basilica, its fascinating narrow streets and outdoor cafés, give a real flavour of Parisian life. Alternatively, after dinner, we will enjoy a floodlit Seine Cruise.
62 (€)

F38 - PARIS. Dinner and Cabaret
Dinner with wines included at one of the most prestigious cabaret shows in town! Enjoy an evening of exciting acts, stunning tableaux and wonderful entertainment - including, of course, the world famous Can-Can. A night in Paris that you will never forget!
113 (€)

F8 - PARIS. Illuminations and Dinner
After an unforgettable dinner in typical Parisian style, drinks included, we take a drive through the city. By night, Paris is a city transformed - no other city has such striking illuminations, such glamour or romance. Amongst the splendours we see the Place de la Concorde, Arc de Triomphe, Cathedral of Notre Dame, Champs Elysées and the Eiffel Tower.
62 (€)

F10a - PARIS. Illuminations and the Seine Cruise
No other city has such striking illuminations, best appreciated on our guided sightseeing night drive. We take in the Place de la Concorde, Champs Elysées, Arc de Triomphe and of course the famed Eiffel Tower from the Trocadero. Finally we embark on the ever-popular riverboats along the Seine for a leisurely cruise under the bridges of Paris.
32 (€)

F75 - PARIS. Illuminations Tour
To complete our evening, and say farewell to Europe, we take a drive through its finest gem. By night, Paris is a city transformed - no other city has such striking illuminations, such glamour or romance. Amongst the splendours we see with new eyes, the Place de la Concorde, Arc de Triomphe, Cathedral of Notre Dame, Champs Elysées and the Eiffel Tower. We will stop at certain key points for photographs, to add the final touch to your memories.
25 (€)

F11 - PARIS. Illuminations, the Sacre Coeur and Montmartre
See the splendour of Paris by night on this evening tour of the main sights, dramatically floodlit, then visit Montmartre, the old artists’ quarter made famous in the paintings of Toulouse-Lautrec and Utrillo. Dominated by the brilliant white dome of Sacré Coeur Basilica, its fascinating narrow streets and outdoor cafés give a real flavour of Paris life.
32 (€)

F39 - PARIS. Le Grand Louvre or Musee D'Orsay
The Louvre - the biggest and bestknown museum in the world was once the palace for the kings. Follow the expert guide through the sumptuous maze of galleries to see the main attractions including Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece - the 'Mona Lisa'. Alternatively, explore the world of the Impressionists in the prize winning converted railway station of the Musee d'Orsay. Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
39 (€)

F55 - PARIS. Moulin Rouge Cabaret and Dinner
An unforgettable evening of French entertainment at Paris’ most famous Cabaret, ‘Le Moulin Rouge’. Dinner, wine and Champagne will be included.
144 (€)

F12a - PARIS. The Louvre and Les Invalides or Montmartre or Seine Cruise
We start with a conducted tour, enhanced by our excellent audio system, of one of the finest Art galleries in the world – the Louvre. A chance to admire the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo amongst the many thousands of exhibits in this former Royal Palace. Alternatively, we will visit Les Invalides – the church in the army museum where Napoleon Bonaparte is buried OR take a funicular ride up to the artists' quarter of Montmartre, OR take a cruise along the Seine in one of the ever-popular riverboats.
45 (€)

F13 - PARIS. Versailles - The Palace and Gardens
We leave the bustle of the city for the splendour and magnificence of Versailles. Created by the “Sun King” Louis XIV, the palace becamethe envy of every other European ruler. Our guide takes us through the State apartments, including the famous Hall of Mirrors. All of this enhanced with the use of our excellent audio system. Afterwards, take a stroll through the meticulous tree-lined gardens.
58 (€)

I70 - ROME. Ancient and Baroque Christian sites
First we drive past the ancient baths of the Emperor Caracalla, scene of the ‘3 tenors concert’ in 1990, to the Catacombs outside the Roman Walls. Christians used these underground churches and cemeteries for assemblies and to escape persecution. Then on to visit the 5th century Church of St. Peter in Chains*, housing not only the chains which are said to have fettered St. Peter, but also one of Michelangelo’s greatest works of sculpture – Moses – a statue belonging to the mausoleum of Julius II. (* on certain departures the Church of St. Paul without the Walls will be visited instead of the Church of St. Peter in Chains) Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
33 (€)

I7 - ROME. Evening Tour: Fountains and Dinner
A lighthearted introduction to the “Eternal City”. Make sure of a safe return to Rome as you toss coins in to the Trevi Fountain. Drive along the glamorous Via Veneto - famed as the setting of “la dolce vita”, and admire the splendour of the monuments in magnificent Piazza Venezia. Then relax and enjoy a typical Italian meal with drinks included.
57 (€)

I40 - ROME. Introduction to Rome by Night
Cameras at the ready for the many magnificent sights awaiting us as we ‘do as the Romans do’ and start the evening with a ‘passegiata’ (evening stroll) along the Via Condotti to the world-famous Spanish Steps in Rome’s most fashionable shopping area. The ‘Campidoglio’, Piazza Venezia and so much more are included on this evening visit before we linger in Piazza Navona with its many pavement cafés and trattorias to admire the seventeenth century fountains and architecture. NB On certain departures, the Spanish Steps will be substituted by the Piazza Rotonda, dominated by the mighty Pantheon.
32 (€)

I12 - ROME. Ostia Antica
Drive to the Mediterranean coast and visit the excavations of Ancient Ostia, the former harbour of Rome. These ruins offer perhaps a more complete picture of Roman urban life than either Rome or Pompeii. See the remains of the baths, theatre, apartment houses, drinking room, mosaics and wall paintings at this beautiful site, mirrored by Cypress trees and Umbrella pines. Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
36 (€)

I35 - ROME. Roman dinner and concert of live musical entertainment
We spend the evening in one of Rome’s finest restaurants. Here we will enjoy a delicious dinner, punctuated by a concert of typical Italian songs and ‘bel canto’ for which this country is justifiably famous! Sit back, relax and imbibe the special Roman atmosphere – the wine or soft drinks are also included!
57 (€)

I16 - ROME. Roman Highlights
On certain departures, for operational reasons, tour I15 may be combined with an interior visit of the Colosseum, or the catacombs, or St Pauls outside the walls. Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
65 (€)

I15 - ROME. Vatican Museums & the Sistine Chapel
An extension to the included sightseeing tour which allows us to admire the artistic masterpieces collected and commissioned by the Popes. See the famous Tapestry Gallery and Gallery of Maps then finally wonder at the masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel. Take your time - Michelangelo spent 11 years in the preparation of the vault and altar wall! Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
40 (€)

I85 - VENICE Magical Venice
On certain departures, for operational reasons, tours I49 & I19 will be combined, excluding the drink.
60 (€)

I19 - VENICE. Gondola Serenade
An ideal introduction to this unique and magical city. Enjoy a romantic gondola journey along canals full of character and colour, while musicians and singers entertain. See the Grand Canal with its magnificent and elegant palaces, witnesses of the past splendours of the ‘Serenissima’.
32 (€)

I18 - VENICE. Lagoon Cruise with Lunch or Dinner
A half day off the beaten track! We are taken by private boat to the nearby islands in the lagoon of Venice. See the island of Murano and the Hermitage of San Francesco del Deserto. Lunch or dinner is taken at the island of the ‘fisherman’ - Burano - a photographer’s paradise. Drinks are also included.
65 (€)

I71 - VENICE. Venetian Glories
Accompanied by a local expert we are taken into the magnificent Doges’ Palace – home to the rulers of the Venetian republic for hundreds of years. We are shown the main highlights of the palace and its elegant courtyards, before entering the Byzantine Basilica of St. Mark the Evangelist, patron saint of the city of Venice. Here we admire the stunning golden mosaics and wonderful Byzantine architecture. (entrance fees included).
34 (€)

I49 - VENICE. Venice by Night
A scintillating introduction to this magical city! First we cruise along the Grand Canal by private water taxis admiring the elegant Palazzos. We see the Rialto Bridge and then reach the ‘most beautiful outdoor drawing room in the world’ - St. Mark’s Square. Here we will have time to wonder at the impressive architecture before enjoying an included drink at one of the chic ‘al fresco’ cafés whilst listening to the music of its own orchestra. We return to our coach on the mainland by private motor launch. (1 drink inc.)
43 (€)