Europe Escape (EE)

Arrivederci for now, Italy! Look forward to some stunning scenery as the tour heads north towards Germany. Enjoy the views while crossing the dramatic Brenner Pass into Innsbruck, Austria. Arrive and enjoy an orientation tour of this city and marvel at the incredible mountain backdrop with time to visit the famous Swarovski store. Next, travel onwards to Munich. Get to know the capital of Bavaria on an orientation tour. Munich was largely rebuilt after WW2 and boasts a fascinating ancient and modern history. The city also hosts the famous Oktoberfest! For a taste of authentic beer culture, enjoy dinner in a traditional beer hall and say prost! with a local pint!

Look forward to more German adventures today and travel towards the majestic Rhine River. Once in the Rhine Valley, set sail on a Rhine riverboat and cruise towards the accommodation for the night. Admire the views while the boat sails past the beautiful scenery. This picturesque region boasts the most concentrated stretch of castles in all of Europe! It's also home to quaint villages, rolling hills and vineyards.Once the cruise is over, visit a local wine merchant for an included wine tasting. Learn more about the local varietals and, if the harvest has been good, try eiswein (ice wine). This dessert wine is produced in very small quantities as it can only be harvested in below freezing temperatures!

Auf wiedersehen Germany! The tour continues to the Netherlands this morning. In the Dutch countryside, discover three of the most iconic Dutch products - cheese, clogs and windmills! Stop at the famous Riekermolen windmill for some memorable photos. Then, enjoy an entertaining cheese and clog-making display! Later, check into the hotel in Amsterdam. Then, head to the centre of Amsterdam for a twilight canal cruise. Admire this vibrant city and its unique architecture and landmarks from the water. An audio guide will explain these sights in more detail. Afterwards, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. The rest of the evening is free to explore the city to your heart's content.

Bid vaarwel to the Netherlands and travel to the stunning Belgian city of Ghent. This port city is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and gorgeous pedestrianised city centre. While here, be sure to try an authentic Belgian waffle and grab some Belgian chocolate to take home! Then, it’s time to head to Paris, the ‘City of Lights’! Arrive and enjoy a driving tour showcasing some of the French capital’s top attractions and landmarks. See the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and more! After ticking off some bucket-list sights, enjoy an included group dinner in the city.

Say au revoir to Paris and see a different side to France with a stop in Burgundy, a stunning winemaking region. Here, visit the town of Beaune and discover the historic Hospices de Beaune or indulge in some local wine. Enjoy free time for lunch before hopping back on the coach for a scenic drive across the border into Switzerland. Travel into the breathtaking Swiss Alps and look forward to two nights of being surrounded by spectacular natural beauty. Settle into the accommodation and enjoy an included dinner at the hotel tonight.

Today offers a full day to experience the wonders of the Swiss Alps! Why not take this opportunity to experience one of Expat Explore’s highest-rated optional excursions? The journey to Jungfraujoch, the highest train station in all of Europe, is one not to be missed! Admire incredible views on the train or gondola ride to the top. Arrive at the top and discover endless photo opportunities, play in the year-round snow and admire the magical ice palace carved into a glacier! Alternatively, spend the day exploring the local villages or shop for souvenirs. Warm up this evening with an optional Swiss fondue dinner.