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HIGHLANDER - IRELAND: Edinburgh-St.Andrews-Inverness-Loch Maree-Ullapool-Inverness-Glassgow. (4 Days/3 Nights) |
| Day 1 |
Edinburgh-St.Andrews-Inverness From Edinburgh we head north to make our first vist to St.Andrews,home of golf and then to Scone Palace for an included vist.This afternoon we enter the Scottish Highlands and vist a whisky distillery en route to Inverness,Capital of the Highlands.Palace Hotel. |
| Day 2 |
To Loch Maree and Ullapool We driver further north to embrace the beauty of Loch Maree.An included vist is made at Inverewe Gardens with its exotic shrubs and trees and then to ullapool before returning to Inverness.Palace Hotel. |
| Day 3 |
To Glasgow We pass mysterious Loch Ness hoping perhaps for a rare sighting of "Nessie" and travel by way of Fort William to enter Glen Coe, scene of the masscre ,with a stop at the Visitor Center.The rugged beauty of Glen Coe gives way to desolate Rannoch Moor before reaching the "Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond."We follow the length of the Loch and end our day in Glasgow,Scotland's largest city.Quality Central Hotel. |
| Day 4 |
Glasgow The tour terminates after breakfast in Glassgow. For those who need it there is an early morning transfer to Edinburgh. |
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A QUICK LOOK AT BRITAIN : York-Darlington-Edinburgh-Chester-London. (4 Days/3 Nights) |
| Day 1 |
To York and Darlington (Sun Tunes) We travel North to York ,famous for its Minster,Roman remains and city walls.Many streets retain the narrowness of medieval times and guided walking tour is included. Then the coach continues through North Yorkshire into country Durham,land of the prince -Bishops. Blackwell Grange Hotel. |
| Day 2 |
Edinburgh (Mon/Wed) Past Durhm,then to the Border Country,into Scotland to vist a Border Abbey ruin and onto Edinburgh for a city tour,including the Royal Mile,John Knox'sHouse and the Scott Memorial on Prince Street. We visit the Castle,perched atop the rock overlooking the picturesque Old Town.An optional Scottish Evening may be available*(May-Oct). Jarvis Mount Royal Hotel |
| Day 3 |
To Chester (Tue/Thu) We return to Eng land via Moffat and drive through the glorious Lake District to reach Chester,the Roman Deva,with its noted "Rows" and medival walls. Aguided walking tour and then your free to explore the fascinating shops. Jarvis Abbots Well Hotel. |
| Day 4 |
To London (Wed/Fri) By way of the Horseshoe Pass and Llangollen before visiting Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare's Birthplace. Then on to London arriving at 18.30 hrs. |
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NIGHTSLAND OF WALES : London-Caernarfon-North Wales-Llandrindod Wells-South Wales-London . (5 Days/4 Nights) |
| Day 1 |
To Caernarfon Leave London at 0800 hrs. and journey through the Cotswolds to the pretty market town of Ludlow. Making our way into Waleswe continue on through Welshpool and Bala, through the Snodonia national park to Caernarfon for a two night stay. Celtic Royal Hotel. |
| Day 2 |
Touring North Wales We travel along the North wales coast to the old walled town of Conwy. Then it is via the Vale of Clwyd to Lalangollen, Betwys-y-Coed and the Llanberis Pass as we arrive back in Caernarfon to visit the castle. |
| Day 3 |
To Llandrindod Wells We drive through the Snowdonia National Park to the sea port of Porthmadog and take the Ffestiniog narrow gauge steaam railway to visit the Llechwedd slate cavern. We see the dams at the lovely Elan valley on the way to the old victorian town of Llandrindod Wells.
GlenUsk Hotel |
| Day 4 |
Touring South Wales Visit Laugharne, where poet and broadcaster Dylan Thomas lived, before continuing on to the pretty seaside town of tenby on Carmarthen Bay. This follwed by a Welsh banquet.
Forte Posthouse Cardiff City . |
| Day 5 |
To London A drive through the Brecon Beacons brings us to the town of the Hay-on -Wye, famous for its large number of the second-hand fascinating shops.Jarvis Abbots |
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HEART OF ITALY: Rome-Naples-Assisi-Venice-Italian Lakes-Florence-Rome. (11 Days/10 Nights) |
| Day 1 |
Arrive Rome After hotel check in you are free to explore this eternal city. This evening meet your fellow travellers and your tour Director over a welcome dinner with wine. |
| Day 2 |
Rome Accompained by a qualified Guide visit the Colosseum and see the Roman Forum and the Pizza Venezia . Visit the St. Peters Basilica set amidst the colonnades designed by Bernini. Later why not visit the Sistine Chaple & Vatican Museum or climb the Spanish Steps to admire the view. |
| Day 3 |
Rome-Naples Head southward this morning to the sparkling bay of Naples .At this famous port we board a Hydrofoil to speed over the water while enjoying a panoramic view of the bay with Vesuvius in the background. Destination in Capri, ride the fanicular up to the town of Capri later cross by steamer to Sorrento & continue on to the rejuvenated city of Naples. |
| Day 4 |
Naples-Assisi This morning walk the resurrected ancient Roman streets of Pompeii , buried for over a millennia by the 79 A.D. eruption of Vesuvius . Head north to Assisi , where flowers tumble over ancient walls and perfect sunset ends the day. |
| Day 5 |
Assisi-Venice In Assisi this morning visit the resting place of St.Francis, the huge 13th century Basilica glorified by frescos which bear eloquent testimony to his life . Afterward drive north to Padua to visit the basilica of St.Anthony . After arriving in Venice you will enjoy a welcome Italian Spumante before a 4 course dinner in the hotel. |
| Day 6 |
Venice After breakfast join an expert guide for a morning walk tour which acquaints us with the clock tower and its remarkable zodiac clock, then take us to see the Doge's Palace and St. Mark square . A free afternoon leaves plenty of time to sample the regional specialities of the Venice and some of Italy's 360 pasta varieties. |
| Day 7 |
Venice- Italian Lakes After breakfast , enjoy a scenic drive via Milan (for a brief sightseeing tour ) to the delightfull Italian Lakes region . later , make an excursion acrossthe boarder into Switzerland. You'll have time in ritzy Lugano for souvenir shopping or a walk along the beautiful lake . |
| Day 8 |
Italian Lakes-Florence South this morning via the Italian Riviera to Tuscany's Pisa . Here see the Campanile which has come to be known as the leaning tower of Pisa before continuing to Florence . |
| Day 9 |
Florence On this morning's guided tour visit the Accademia for Michelangelo's David and the Cathedral. The afternoon is free for a personal exploration of this grand city. Art lovers won't want to miss Pitti Palace or the Uffizi Gallery famous for its Botticellis. |
| Day 10 |
Florence-Rome After breakfast , enjoy a leisurely drive south to, Rome where the rest of the day is free for last minute shopping, sightseeing and your private farewells. |
| Day 11 |
Depart Rome After breakfast it's time for your same day flight home. |
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HEART OF FRANCE: Paris-Tours-Bordeaux-Carcassonne-Nice-Nimes-Dijon-Paris. (11 Days/10 Nights) |
| Day 1 |
Arrive Paris After hotel check-in, you're free to explore this monumental and handsome city. This evening meet our tour Director and fellow travellers over a welcome drink. |
| Day 2 |
Paris This morning a guided sightseeing of one of the most romantic cities on Earth .See the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs Elysees and the sweeping banks of Seine. The highlight will be a visit to the gothic masterpiece, Norte Dame This afternoon you're free to visit the Louvre Museum or the Eiffel Tower . This evening why not join the optional tour to visit the Montmartre and dine out a Parisian restaurant . |
| Day 3 |
Paris-Tours This morning head off into the French countryside. Our first stop is Chartres where you visit the magnificent Gothic Cathedral. Heading south, arrive in the valley of the Loire. Visit the Chateau of Chenonceaux, picturesquely built upon arches over the river Cher. |
| Day 4 |
Tours-Bordeaux Driving south, to Cognac, inspect the stills and learn the techniques that has made this village synonymous with the finest drink. Continue into one of the most prestigious wine producing areas in the word. Our destination is the city of Bordeaux for an orientation sightseeing. |
| Day 5 |
Bordeaux-Carcassonne This morning drive up the Garonne Valley passing Toulouse to Carcassonne for overnight. Here, behind spectacular battlements, Is one of the world's most perfectly preserved medieval towns. |
| Day 6 |
Carcassonne-Nice Today head For the Mediterranean coast through the Camargue, the wetlands of the Rhone Delta, which are a sanctuary of the wild life as diverse as horses and Flamingos . Pause in Arles, a Roman town which wasimmortalized by Van Gogh , then stop in Aix En provence , the ancient capital of the region which nestles beneath the Mount St. Victoire Destination is nice ,"The chief pleasure city of Riviera." |
| Day 7 |
Nice This morning our tour Director will take us on an optional excursion to Monte Carlo. The balance of the day in Nice is free to enjoy this most elegant resort; sunbathe on the beach, browse amongst the fashionable boutiques, or stroll along the Promenade des Anglais. |
| Day 8 |
Nice-Nimes Today drive through Provence to Avignon and see the Pont D' Avignon and the palace of the Popes.
The next highlight is the Roman Aqueduct of the Pont Du Gardon the way to Nimes. |
| Day 9 |
Nimes-Dijon Follow the valley of the Rhone north through Lyon via Beaune, the center of the Burgundian wine trade .Sample some wine before driving through the Cote D' Or, passing such villages as Nuits St. Georges Chambertin and Montrachet. Our destination is Dijon, the former capital of Dukes of Burgundy, why not purchase some of its renowned mustard? |
| Day 10 |
Dijon-Paris Final day of touring features a spectacular drive over the rolling countryside of Champagne. A stop at Rheims to visit the coronation Cathedral of the French Kings. From here head into Paris, pausing at Chateau Thierry to ponder upon the battelines of the First World War. Tonight why not experience some of the Paris night life, or may be a quiet evening to say farewell to your new- found friends? |
| Day 11 |
Depart Paris After a light breakfast, it's time to bid goodbye! |
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HEART OF SPAIN: Madrid-Toledo-Madrid-Cordoba-Granada-Costa Del Sol-Seville-Lisbon-Fatima-Oporto-Salamanca-Madrid. (13 Days/12 Nights) |
| Day 1 |
Arrive Madrid After check-in, relax in your hotel. This evening meet your tour Director and fellow travellers over a glass of Sangria. |
| Day 2 |
Madrid-Toledo Excursion The highlight of this morning's tour is the visit to the Prado museum. This afternoon head south to Toledo, on a guided tour of this ancient city including a visit to the Chapel of Santa Tome. Return to Madrid in time to enjoy city by night. |
| Day 3 |
Madrid-Cordoba Today head south to Cordoba for the visit to the ancient Mezquita and Synagogue. |
| Day 4 |
Cordoba-Costa Del Sol Our first stop is Granada, the last possession of the moors in Spain to visit the Alhambra. This evening stay in fashionable coastal resort of the Costa Del Sol. |
| Day 5 |
Costa Del Sol A free day to relax at this popular seaside resort or may be join the optional excursion to Mizas, a village of idyllic white houses clustered on the hill side above the Mediterranean. |
| Day 6 |
Costa Del Sol-Seville This morning after passing Marbella head north into the hills, arriving at Ronda in the late morning. There will be a time to stroll around, one of the oldest town in Andalusia. Destination tonight is Seville, the capital of Andalusia. After dinner, chance to see a Flamenco show. |
| Day 7 |
Seville This morning tour the main sights of this magnificent town, with a visit the Alcazar Fortress. The afternoon & evening is free to enjoy this city of orange blossoms and poets. |
| Day 8 |
Seville-Lisbon Set off this morning through the arid lands of Extremadura to the border between Spain and Portugal at Elvas. Our destination tonight is Lisbon. |
| Day 9 |
Lisbon This morning join a local qualified guide for a tour. See the Belem tower and the tomb of Vasco do Gama in the monastery of St. Jeronimo. The afternoon and evening are free to wander the maize of streets or ride the old streetcars. |
| Day 10 |
Lisbon-Oporto Head north to the shrine of our Lady at Fatima, one of the most venerated modern pilgrimage centers in Christendom. Continue on to Oporto, the second city of Portugal. After an orientation tour enjoy a tasting of Port in one of the wine merchant's cellars. |
| Day 11 |
Oporto-Salamanca This morning head east into Spain arriving in the Cathedral city of Salamanca with its magnificent Baroque Plaza Major in time for an orientation sightseeing. |
| Day 12 |
Salamanca-Madrid This morning drive into Castilla, passing the ancient city in Avila. In the Valley of the Fallen have a guided tour of this vast necropolis, built to be one of the wonders of the modern world. We reach Madrid in plenty of time for an afternoon of shopping. |
| Day 13 |
Depart Madrid After break fast say goodbye to Spain. |
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SPOTLIGHT ON EUROPE: London-Brussels-Cologne-Weinheim-Heidelberg-Oberammergau-Innsbruk-Venice-Rome-Florence-Montecatini-Lake Lucerne-Paris-London. (14 Days/13 Nights) |
| Day 1 |
London We arrive London during the day and check-in at our southbound hotel. |
| Day 2 |
London-Brussels By coach through the lovely Kent countryside to Rams gate and a short sea crossing to the continent where we board our luxury coach to Brussels- the beautiful capital city of Belgium - for our overnight stay. Evening stroll around the boulevards making our way to the romantic Grande Place. |
| Day 3 |
Brussels-Cologne-Weinheim In the morning to the German Border and at the Cologne we stop to admire the magnificent Gothic Cathedral following the 'Rhine' upstream to the great wine centre of Koblenz. Ancient castles crown the high hills through which the river flows making this a truly delightful journey. Tonight we stay in Weinheim. |
| Day 4 |
Weinheim-Heidelberg-Oberammergau-Innsbruk To the university city of Heidelberg. Southwards now into the Bavarian Alps for a view of Oberammergau. This small town was busy throughout the summer of 1990 with the unique Passion play. Cross the border into Austria for the night at the quaint Tyrolean capital of Innsburck. |
| Day 5 |
Innsbruk-Venice / Mestre Over the Brenner pass into Italy. Through magnificent rugged scenery descend to the Lombardy Plainand the unique city of Venice built upon 117 islands. By launch to St. Mark's Square and some wonderful hours spend in exploring this small but fascinating city. |
| Day 6 |
Venice-Rome We leave Venice after breakfast and continue along the valley of the Po River to the Apennines. The wonderful highway traverses the sunny Slope of Tuscany on our way to Imperial Rome. |
| Day 7 |
Rome at leisure There will be an opportunity to see the incomparable Basilica of St. Peter's in Vatican city. In the afternoon time for leisurely strolling around the city of soak in the local atmosphere and to see the Spanish steps, the Colosseum and many other fascinating sights. |
| Day 8 |
Rome-Florence-Montecatini In the morning along the magnificent Autostrada del Sole to the Tuscan city of Florence beautifully situated on the river Arno. Afternoon orientation will show you some of the places in Florence which has made the place famous in the world of Renaissance art. Tonight we stay in Montecatini. |
| Day 9 |
Montecatini-Lake Lucerne Northwards to lake Como and shortly afterwards across the border of Switzerland. Through the fantastic Swiss Alps before dropping down to the lake and the fairy-tale town of Lucerne. |
| Day 10 |
Lucerne at leisure A day in this lovely city with morning sightseeing and a visit to the famous Lion Monument. Free afternoon, perhaps to take a cable car up the Stanserhorn for a magnificent view of Alps. |
| Day 11 |
Lucerne-Paris In the morning short drive to the French Frontier just outside Basle. Through pleasant and fertile countryside to Fontainebleau where we stop to admire the magnificent Chateau. Then it is on to the glorious French capital of Paris. |
| Day 12 |
Paris at leisure A delightful morning sightseeing in Paris - Place De La Concorde, The Champ Elysees, Arc De Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Opera house, Sacre Coeur and much more. The afternoon is free so that we may wander around and enjoy the sights and sounds of this great and beautiful city. |
| Day 13 |
Paris-London After breakfast is 'au revoir' to Paris. Drive northward to the channel port for the return crossing to England and coach journey to London. |
| Day 14 |
London A final breakfast and then we are on our way carrying with us many delightful memories. |
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IMPERIAL EUROPE: London-Amsterdam-Berlin-Dresden-Prague-Budapest-Vienna-Innsbruck-Liechtenstein-Lucerne-Paris-London. (16 Days/15 Nights) |
| Day 1 |
Arrive London Arriving during the day and check - in at our South bound Tour. |
| Day 2 |
London-Amsterdam Travel by coach for a short journey through the Kent countryside to board our ship for the English Channel crossing to France. |
| Day 3 |
Amsterdam-Berlin This morning our drive takes us to the German border and then along the autobahn via Hannover and Magdeburg to the vibrant city of Berlin for a two night stay. |
| Day 4 |
In Berlin Our morning tour highlights the Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate and the Unter den Linden then we are free to shop on the colourful Kurfurstendamm and tonight enjoy the variety of entertainment in this famous city. |
| Day 5 |
Berlin-Dresden-Prague Travelling south we arrive in Dresden situated on the river Elbe in time for an orientation tour which takes in the Zwinger Palace, Cathedral and numerous architectural pleasures after which we drive to Czech border and into the breathtaking city of Prague. |
| Day 6 |
In Prague This morning sightseeing conducted by a local guide shows us the fine pints of this old city including St. Vitas Cathedral , the John Huss monument on the renowned Wenceslas Square and Hradcany Castle - afternoon is at leisure for your personal exploration of this unforgettable city, or a visit to nearby Royal castle. |
| Day 7 |
Prague-Budapest Today we travel through Moravia to Slovakia and its capital of Bratislava for a visit before continuing long side the Blue Danuble to Budapest in Hungary. |
| Day 8 |
In Budapest This morning sightseeing tours shows us the principal sighs of the twin cities Buda & Pest, including the church of St. Mitthias, Hero's square Fisherman's Bastion and the Royal Palace. This afternoon is free to take an optional excursion on the Danube or browse around the shop for exquisite embroidery. |
| Day 9 |
Budapest-Vienna This morning short drive takes us to Gyor a city of great historical interest and where we make a short stop. Then to Austria and Vienna - the seat of the old Imperial capital. |
| Day 10 |
In Vienna Tour the city of the Hapsburgs this morning. In the afternoon we are free to drive through the Vienna woods or shop for the antiques on the Dorotheergasse or ride in the fiacre. Tonight yu have the opportunity to hear the lilting music of Strauss reminding us that we are in the city of the Waltz. |
| Day 11 |
Vienna-Innsbruck Travelling through the Vienna woods we pass the imposing Abbey of Melk situated by Danube. Then through the Salzkammergutto Linz and salzburg before arriving in Innsbruck the capital of Tyrol. Our orientation tour shows us the famous Golden Roof and the Old Town. This evening we may wish to participate in a lively Tyrolean folklore show. |
| Day 12 |
Innsbruck-Liechtenstein-Lucerne Departing from the enchanting town we drive along the River Inn Valley and start the climb over the mighty Arlberg Pass to arrive in the small Principality of Leichtenstein and its capital Vaduz. Onwards into Switzerland for our over night stay in lovely Lakeside Lucerne with time for an orientation tour and visit to see famous the Lion Monument. |
| Day 13 |
Lucerne-Paris Passing through basle situated on he Rhine river we cross the border into France and through the wine country of Burgundy to the French, capital Paris, for a two night stay. |
| Day 14 |
In Paris On our included tour, admire the stained glass in ancient Noter Dame, ride along the Champs elysees and see Napoleon's Arc De Triomphe - and much more as well. Free time to climb the Eiffel Tower, to see the amazing pyramid beside the Louvre or write the last postcard in a side walk café. Take the evening cruise along the Seine or visit the lively cabaret. |
| Day 15 |
Paris-London A morning drive brings us to the coast for our channel crossing. Apples orchards and hopfields of Kent precede our arrival in London. |
| Day 16 |
Depart London Farewell to London and now its time to board your homeward flight. |
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EUROPEAN SPLENDOUR: London-Brussels-Amsterdam-Hirschberg / Weinheim.-Heidelberg-Lucerne-Innsbruk-Venice-Rome-Florence-Montecatini-Monaco-Nice-Avigon-Lyon-Paris-London.(17 Days/16 Nights) |
| Day 1 |
London Arriving during the day and check in at our hotel. Time for shopping with may be an evening visit to one of the famous London Theaters. |
| Day 2 |
London-Brussels Through the delightful Kent countryside to the bustling port of Ramsgate for the channel crossing. Then board coach to drive across Belgium to the beautiful capital city of Brussels. |
| Day 3 |
Brussels-Amsterdam Through Antwerp to the Dutch border and a short drive to lively Amsterdam-'Venice of the North' - the trading capital of Holland. |
| Day 4 |
Amsterdam-Hirschberg / Weinheim A short drive to the German border and soon we arrive at the Cathedral city of Cologne. In the afternoon along the romantic Rhine Valley. Castles rise from both banks of the 'Rhine' and huddled between these and the river are the picturesque wine villages. This night is spent at Hirschberg / Weinheim. |
| Day 5 |
Hirschberg / Weinheim-Heidelberg-Lucerne In the morning go into Heidelberg - an old university town beautifully situated on the river Neckar. Time for a stroll before re-boarding our coach for a drive through the heart of the Black Forest to the Swiss border. Through picturesque village to the delightful lakeside resort of Lucerne for a two night stay. |
| Day 6 |
Lucerne at leisure This morning we will see the medieval wooden bridge noted for 154 paintings in the triangular roof. However, The most famous sight is the mascot of Lucerne- 'The Lion'- carved out of solid rock. The afternoon is free to take one of the many excellent excursions into the surrounding mountains, go for a sail on the Lake, wander around the old town or browse through the large department stores. |
| Day 7 |
Lucerne-Innsbruk A short drive will take us to Leichtenstein and we stop at Vaduz, its capital. Then into Austria to begin ascent of the Arlberg pass. Along the valley of the Inn River to Innsbruck, capital of the Tyrol. For evening entertainment why not join the typical Folklore show? |
| Day 8 |
Innsbruk-Venice/Mestre This morning along with the new highway crossing the Brenner Pass, into Italy. We have wonderful views of the Dolomite range of mountains en route to Bolzano. Onwards to the romantic city of Venice and thrill of the launch trip to its very center. |
| Day 9 |
Venice-Rome The highway of the Sun leads us across the Apenines- through the tunnels and over bridged valleys the road snakes its way to Rome- Italy's capital where we shall stay for two nights. |
| Day 10 |
Rome at leisure There will be an opportunity to see the incomparable basilica St. Peters in Vatican city. In the afternoon time for leisurely activities Strolling around the city to soak in local atmosphere and to see the Spanish steps, the Colosseum and many other fascinating sights. |
| Day 11 |
Rome-Florence-Montecatini Northwards to Florence - Tuscan city of renaissance art abounding in architectural treasures. Gaze in awe at the spectacular Cathedral beside which stands Giotto's 14th century Bell tower 292 feet high. Examine the Jeweller's wares in the shops which still line the old bridge spanning the River Arno. Night in Montecatini. |
| Day 12 |
Montecatini-Monaco-Nice In the morning to Pisa where we will see the famous Leaning Tower. Around Genoa - birthplace of Columbus -and proceed along the autostrada above the Italian Riviera of flowers. Crossing the border to arrive in France and the famous Cote d' Azur. A view of the tiny principality of Monaco, ruled by Prince Rainier and soon we are in Nice - the most glamorous resort on the French Riviera. Tonight a fascinating optional excursion to Monte Carlo. |
| Day 13 |
Nice-Avigon-Lyon Time to visit the fragrant flower market or stroll along the Promenade des Anglais Then in mid morning we are on our way through the mimosa forest and umbrella pines of Provence to the walled city of Avignon with its magnificent palace of the Popes. Later along with the magnificent autoroute to the great commercial city of Lyon where we shall spend the night. |
| Day 14 |
Lyon-Paris Driving through the spectacular beauty of the Rhone Valley, we head for the wineyard of Burgundy and Beaune. Then passing the forest of Royal Fontainebleau, we reach fabulous Paris for a two night stay. |
| Day 15 |
Paris at leisure By coach along the Grand Boulevards to the opera, the Place de La Concorde, Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower. We shall see many wonderful sights in this enchanting capital during the morning spent sightseeing the afternoon is free to shop or browse; to enjoy ourselves in true Parisian fashion. |
| Day 16 |
Paris-London Reluctantly we leave Paris and drive to the Continental port for the homeward journey across the channel. Then it is by coach to London and our overnight hotel. |
| Day 17 |
London After breakfast departure from hotel on the conclusion of a truly wonderful holiday. |
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RUSSIA AND NORTHERN CAPITALS: London-Cologne-Berlin-Warsaw-Minsk-Smolensk-Moscow-Tver-Novgorod-St. Petersburg-Helsinki-Stockholm-Copenhagen-Neuenkirchen Bei Rheine-Amsterdam-London.(22 Days/21 Nights) |
| Day 1 |
Arrive London Check in at your London hotel and the rest of the day at Leisure. |
| Day 2 |
London-Cologne Through the delightful Kentish countryside to the channel port for the ferry to France. We soon enter Belgium crossing the flemish farmlands and pass lively Brussels before the Herve Platueau leads us to the German Frontier. Tonight we stay in Cologne whose Gothic Cathedral is the Land mark of the city. |
| Day 3 |
Cologne-Berlin The autobahn takes you to the edge of the Ruhr then north - east past Hanover to the former GDR. A view of the spires of Magdeburg Cathedral before arriving in vibrant Berlin. |
| Day 4 |
In Berlin A morning tour highlight the Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate and the Unter then Linden then you are free to shop on the colourful Kurfurstendamm and tonight enjoy the variety of entertainment on this beautiful city. |
| Day 5 |
Berlin-Warsaw The River Oder is a natural frontier to Poland and soon we are driving through the Polish farmlands past Poznan, ancient trading city, and now venue of industrial fairs, to reach the proud Polish capital. |
| Day 6 |
In Warsaw Lovingly rebuilt after the devastation of World War II, today we explore the old town and visit the beautiful Lazienski Palace then you are free to shop for lovely crystal or colourful embroidery. Tonight you might choose to attend the lively folkdance show. |
| Day 7 |
Warsaw-Minsk At Brest Litovsk, we enter Russia driving east through the Pripet Marshes to Minsk capital of Belorussia-another city almost entirely rebuilt after the devastation of World War II. |
| Day 8 |
Minsk-Smolensk-Moscow Forests and gently rolling countryside leads us along the route followed by Napoleon in his retreat during the bitter winter of 1812 to Smolensk for lunch. Passing Borodino we arrive at the Russian capital. |
| Day 9 |
Moscow Our city tour shows the impressive university, the new maiden Convent, St. Basil's Cathedral and Red Square. A free afternoon to join our optional excursion behind the impressive wall of the Kremlin to see the Giant bell, the myriad Cathedral the treasure of Armoury and the exterior of the former Royal Palace - a fascinating complex in the heart of the city. |
| Day 10 |
Moscow-Tver Morning at leisure for personal exploration. Following lunch , it is north wards to Klin, former home of Tchaikovsky to visit the museum dedicated to this great composer, after which it is onwards to Tver, once known as Kalinin And situated on the mighty river Volga for our over night stay. |
| Day 11 |
Tver-Novgorod-St. Petersburg Leaving Tver we drive to Novgorod the cradle of Russian Civilization with time to visit the Kremlin which dates from 1044, then a short drive brings us to the most beautiful city in Russia inspired by Peter the great in 1703 as home of the Russian Imperial court. |
| Day 12 & 13 |
St. Petersburg Two whole day start with the comprehensive city tour highlighting the principal sight which include the Peter and Paul Fortress, Peter's statue, St. Isaac's Cathedral and certainly your tour will be incomplete without a visit to the Winter Palace to view the opulent treasure of the Hermitage Museum. On day two of your stay, should you wish you may visit the residence of Peter the Great in Petrodvorets beside the Gulf of Finland or the summer palace of the Empress Catherine the Great at Pushkin. There is a lot to do for the evening entertainment. |
| Day 14 |
St. Petersburg-Helsinki Leaving beautiful St. Petersburg, we drive between the Gulf of Finland and lake Ladoga towards the frontier town of Viborg and enter Finland , which only became independent in 1917, to reach Helsinki. |
| Day 15 |
Helsinki / Overnight ferry to Sweden This 16th century city is explored this morning. See the university, the National Theater And the monument to the great Sibelius whose music inspired the Finnish freedom. Time to shop for crystal, leather and fabrics then in late afternoon we board the Silja line ferry and cruise through Myriad islands of the Baltic. On board you sleep in Tourist class cabin with facilities. |
| Day 16 |
In Stockholm A glorious approach to the beautiful Swedish capital and we enjoy the city tour. Later you can visit the resurrected 'Vasa' or stroll from the medieval Old Town with Royal Palace and Cathedral to the ultra modern shopping centre and visit the famous Town Hall. |
| Day 17 |
Stockholm-Copenhagen |