European Dream (Europe + Spain + Nice)

Today we explore London city, we enjoy panoramic views of the city through London Eye – Europe’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel. We then visit Tower of London Museum – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Powerful symbols of the Monarchy. Here we see St Edward's Crown, The Imperial State Crown, and Koh-I-Noor Diamond- which adorns the front of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother’s Crown. Later in the city orientation tour we see Tower Bridge – Victorian Gothic style two tower suspension bridge on river Thames, Piccadilly Circus – a busy square in the heart of London also known as Times Square of London, Westminster Abbey – a place of worship, celebration, ceremony and a coronation Church since 1066, Big Ben – Iconic clock tower famous for its accuracy and the massive bell, River Thames – 346 kms longest river in England, Trafalgar Square – most attractive public square in the city of Westminster, Houses of Parliament – Also known as the Palace of Westminster. Further we pass by Buckingham Palace – royal residence and the administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom, Hyde Park – a huge Royal Park stretching from Kensington palace to Buckingham Palace famous for its speaker corner for free speech and demonstration. In the afternoon we visit Madame Tussauds Wax Museum where you get a chance to photograph yourself with the world’s famous personalities.

Today we board the Eurostar Train/Eurotunnel Ferry from London and travel to Paris, France – city well known for its fashion. Upon arrival we enjoy the city of Paris, get mesmerized by the amazing view of Paris city from the Top level of the Eiffel Tower. Later during the city orientation tour we see Champs Elysees - the most famous avenue in the world. Champs-Elysées means ‘Elysian Fields’ which indicates that someone thought this street was heaven on earth, Place de la Concorde - one of the major public squares in Paris. It was the site of many notable public executions during the French Revolution, L’Arc De Triomphe - one of the most famous monuments in Paris. It was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to celebrate his victory at Austerlitz. In the evening, we admire the iconic sights of Paris on a relaxing Seine river cruise.

Today we visit the Versailles palace – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose origins date back to the seventeenth century, was successively a hunting lodge, a seat of power and from the nineteenth century, a museum. Here we see the State apartments and the magnificent Hall of Mirrors. Later we pass by Louvre Museum.

Today we proceed to Brussels – capital city of Belgium. Upon arrival, we enjoy Brussels city, in the orientation tour we see Grand Place – the central square, Town Hall, Guild Houses – Gothic building from the middle ages, Monument of Everard Serclaes – the hero who liberated the city during 14th century war and Belgium’s favourite Manneken Pis Statue – a small bronze statue of a little peeing boy. In the afternoon we proceed to Amsterdam – the capital city of Netherlands with more number of canals than roads, also known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system and narrow houses.

Today we experience a Canal cruise tour through Amsterdam waterways, which provides stunning views of century’s old architecture, charming houses and beautiful monuments. Further we visit miniature park of Holland – Madurodam and enjoy interactive miniature models and replicas of famous Dutch buildings, landmarks, historical sites, canal houses, Rotterdam port, Schiphol airport, Tulip fields, windmills, etc. Or during spring we visit Keukenhof tulip gardens – beautiful Tulip gardens where we enjoy photography at various flower shows, statues, pavilions, beautiful ponds and fields (According to the Keukenhof declarations, the gardens are open from 21st March 2024 – 12th May 2024). Later we pass by Holland’s famous Windmills. In the afternoon we proceed to Bruges – One of the loveliest town of Belgium distinguished by its cobbled streets, canals and medieval buildings.

Today we visit De Halve Maan Brewery – one of Western Europe`s oldest breweries still active today. Later we enjoy a romantic horse drawn carriage ride which takes us through the historic winding streets, canals and various beautiful sights of Bruges. Further we proceed to Luxembourg – a small European country famed for its fortified medieval old town situated on cliffs. Upon arrival, we explore the city of Luxembourg by a tram.

Today we drive through the Black forest region- a mountainous region in Germany, known for its dense evergreen forests and picturesque villages. Here we visit Cuckoo clock factory at Titisee. After a scenic journey through black forest region we visit yet another natural beauty at Rhine Falls, Schaffhausen (Neuhausen) – the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Here we enjoy Boat ride for a spectacular view of the falls. Later we proceed to Zurich, Switzerland – a global centre for banking and finance.

Today we proceed to Engelberg- the largest winter and summer holiday destination. From here we do half day excursion to Mt Titlis – Central Switzerland’s highest peak. We take ‘Titlis Rotair’- World’s first cable car with revolving gondolas to the summit Station, enjoying panoramic views of the Swiss Alps along the way. Upon arrival at the summit, we visit Ice Grotto, enjoy thrilling Ice Flyer ride and Snow sliding. In the afternoon we proceed to Lucerne. Upon arrival we explore Lucerne city, we see Lion Monument - a giant dying lion carved out of a wall of sandstone rock, which commemorates the Swiss Guards who were massacred in 1792 during the French Revolution, Kappelbrucke Wooden Bridge - world's oldest covered wooden bridge spanning the River Reuss. In the evening we enjoy Lake Lucerne Cruise.

Today we do a full day excursion to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe. First we proceed to Grindelwald, from here we board Eiger Express – The most modern tricable gondola of the world. We reach at Eiger Glacier station in just 15 minutes. Further we board a Cogwheel train and admire the view of the picture-perfect peaks of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau along the way and then disembark at Europe’s highest railway station which is at an elevation of 3,454 metres (11,332 ft). Upon arrival we see the breath taking view of snow-capped mountains, Ice sculptures, Ice Palace and Sphinx Terrace. In the evening we explore Interlaken city- a traditional resort town in the mountainous Bernese Oberland region of central Switzerland. Built on a narrow stretch of valley, between the emerald-colored waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Today we proceed Vaduz – the capital of the principality of Liechtenstein which is one of the smallest countries in Europe. Upon arrival at Vaduz we enjoy a City Tram ride which takes us through historical part of old city. In the afternoon we proceed to Munich and Say cheers to Germany's beer capital. Its motto is "München mag dich" (Munich loves you). Upon arrival during the orientation tour of Munich City, we take a photo stop at Hofbräuhaus – the oldest beer house founded in 1589 by the Duke of Bavaria, see Marienplatz - the centre of Munich city since the 12th century and its iconic Rathaus-Glockenspiel- world's most extravagant clock. This tower on Munich's Marienzplatz features a clock face, 43 bells and more than 30 full-sized mechanical figures. The figures act out scenes from German history and mythology.

Today we proceed to the baroque city of Salzburg, Austria – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mozart's birthplace and the filming location for The Sound of Music movie. Upon arrival we walk through the city and see Salzburg Cathedral- the centrepiece of Salzburg. It stands out as a masterpiece of early baroque art, Residenz Fountain - considered to be the most beautiful fountain in the city of Salzburg, Love lock bridge over Salzac river- a symbol of eternal love. Couples mark their locks with their names or initials and toss the key into the river, Getreide Gasse- a busy shopping street in the historic altstadt of Salzburg, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, It is also known as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, where he lived until the age of 17, Linzer Gasse- yet another beautiful street with its handicrafts, old shops and countless restaurants. Later we visit Mirabell Gardens – horticultural masterpiece and one of the most important shooting locations from the famous Hollywood musical ‘The Sound of Music’. In the afternoon we visit Swarovski crystal world and Museum at at Wattens in Austria. Further we proceed to Innsbruck – Europe's most picture-perfect Old Towns, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks. Upon arrival we explore Innsbruck city, we walk through the bridge over Inns River, Golden roof- Innsbruck's most famous landmark shines in the heart of the historic old town. The splendid alcove balcony with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles that adorn the roof, Maria Theresien Strasse- named after Empress Maria Theresia, which dates back to the first city expansion in the 13th century. Today it is one of the busiest streets in the city.

Today we proceed to Venice, Italy - built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. It has no roads but just canals. Upon arrival we enjoy Vaporetto water bus ride to Venice Island and the Gondola ride in the famous canals of Venice. Further we walk through Venice Island, we see the Bridge of Sighs – an enclosed limestone bridge in baroque style which passes over the Rio di Palazzo, and connects the New Prison to the interrogation rooms in the Doge's Palace, Doge’s Palace - a palace built in Venetian Gothic style, and was the residence of the Doge of Venice, Bell Tower – also known as St Mark's Campanile, is the bell tower of St Mark's Basilica which is 98.6 metres (323 ft) tall, St. Mark's Square - principal public square of Venice and St Mark's Basilica – also known as The Patriarchal Cathedral Basilica of Saint Mark and one of the best known examples of Italian-Byzantine architecture. In the evening we proceed to Ferrara.

Today we proceed to San Marino – one of the smallest countries in Europe, it dates from the fourth century AD. Upon arrival we walk through Piazza della Libertà square- The main plaza of San Marino, followed by a photo stop at Basilica of St. Marino – an architectural masterpiece. Later we proceed to Rome – capital of Italy, is one of the oldest cities in the world.

Today we drive through Naples - the third largest city in Italy after Rome and Milan and is located on the western coast of Italy facing the Tyrrhenian Sea, from Naples we board a ferry and proceed to Capri Island- an island in Italy’s Bay of Naples and is known for its rugged landscapes. Upon arrival visit the Blue Grotto or White Grotto - a sea cave on the coast of the island of Capri. Reflected sunlight makes the cave appear to be lit from inside with shades of blues. (During the high tide days when Blue Grotto or White Grotto is not possible, we visit Anacapri)

Today we walk through the amazing historical sights of Rome, we visit Trevi Fountain - the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous fountains in the world, Piazza Venezia - the central hub of Rome, here we see Mussolini's Balcony - The spot where the fascist dictator made some of his most famous speeches including declaring war on Britain and France, Roman Forum - a rectangular forum surrounded by the ruins of several important ancient government buildings at the centre of the city of Rome. Here we see the statue of Julius Caesar whose remains were buried at the site of his cremation and a temple built atop this site, Tiber River – third longest river in Italy, followed by a photo stop at the backdrop of Colosseum - also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre. Later we proceed to Vatican City – world’s smallest country where the Pope lives and is often called Holy See. Upon arrival we visit the largest church in the world St. Peter's Basilica - an Italian Renaissance church and an important pilgrimage site. Further we proceed to Pisa - a city in Italy's Tuscany region best known for its iconic Leaning Tower.

Today we explore Pisa city, we see Square of Miracles – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an important center of European medieval art and one of the finest architectural complexes in the world which is dominated by four great religious edifices: The Pisa Baptistry, Pisa Cathedral, the Leaning tower of Pisa, and the Monumental Cemetery. Baptistery – a Roman Catholic ecclesiastical building in Pisa, Pisa Cathedral - a medieval Roman Catholic cathedral dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and is a notable example of Romanesque architecture and Leaning tower of Pisa – a freestanding bell tower, of the cathedral of the Italian city of Pisa, known worldwide for its nearly four-degree lean, the result of an unstable foundation. Later we head to the pastel picturesque villages of Cinque Terre - a sting of old fishing villages perched high on the Italian Riviera noted for its beauty and take in the impressive view of the coast and walk through its colourful streets. In the evening, we proceed to Genoa.

Today we proceed to Monte Carlo - officially an administrative area of the Principality of Monaco. Upon arrival at Monte Carlo, we visit Prince's Palace - Palace of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace. It is the official residence of the Prince of Monaco and one of Monaco’s most impressive landmarks. Followed by a visit the world's oldest SBM Casino - a world-famous casino and one which has featured in many Hollywood movies. Further we proceed to Nice – The city is fondly called ‘Nice La Belle’ which means ‘Nice the Beautiful’. En route we visit the perfume factory at Eze – this part of France is famous for its perfumes. Upon arrival in Nice we explore Nice city, in the orientation tour we see Town hall - a beautiful Neo-classic building situated in the heart of Old Town and is the seat of Nice's municipal government in the evening we stroll around the water front area of Nice.

Today we proceed to Cannes - a resort town on the French Riviera, is famed for its international film festival. Upon arrival we explore Cannes city, we take a photo stop at Cannes Film festival theatre and walk by the waterfront area. In the afternoon we proceed to Marseille - The oldest city in France and France’s second largest after Paris. Upon arrival we walk through Marseille city, we see Vieux Port of Marseille – the old harbor, Le Panier - the old town, followed by a visit to Marseille Cathedral - a Roman Catholic cathedral, and a national monument of France.

Today we proceed to Barcelona – the cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, is known for its art and architecture. Upon arrival we take a stroll on the beach front of Barcelona.

Today we explore Barcelona city, we visit UNESCO World Heritage site Sagrada Familia Cathedral - Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece, expected to be completed in 2026 after almost 142 years of construction. Then we take a cable car ride to Montjuic hill which gives us a panoramic views of the entire Barcelona city and the Tibidado hill. Later we see The 1992 Olympic stadium, Statue of Christopher Columbus and Colourful La Ramblas - the most famous street in Barcelona. Later we take a stroll on the beach front of Barcelona to enjoy the sunset. In the evening, we enjoy the Flamenco show with dinner.

Today we board a high speed train from Barcelona and travel to Madrid– the capital and the most populous city of Spain also the third-largest city in the European Union. Upon arrival we explore Madrid city, during the orientation tour we see Plaza de Espana - one of Madrid's largest square, Cervantes Statue – the monument dedicated to Miguel de Cervantes, the Spanish novelist, poet and play writer, Cibeles fountain – a famous landmark which depicts Cybele the Great Mother of the Gods and Roman Goddess of fertility, Parliament building and Puerto del Sol – a bustling public square.