Heart of Europe with London Tour

17-day tour featuring Holland, Belgium, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, France and England

  • Tour Description
    Visit all the sights from our signature HEART OF EUROPE® Circle Tour, plus take a Eurostar train ride under the English Channel from Paris to London for a two-night stay in the exciting British capital.
  • Included Features
    Meals - In addition to any meals you may be served during your flights to and from Europe, the tour price includes 15 breakfasts and 8 dinners during the land portion of the tour.

    Accommodations

    Superior Tourist Class (3-star) and First Class (4-star) hotels are carefully selected for comfort, cleanliness and character . All rooms have a private bathroom with sink, toilet, and shower or bathtub. Free Wi-Fi is available at the hotels, with only a rare exception. Our tours feature a balance of modern city hotels and family-run village hotels with European atmosphere accompanied by genuine hospitality.

    Dinners

    The included dinners follow a fixed menu. We work closely with the hotels/restaurants to provide a variety of dishes throughout the tour. The number of included dinners is noted on the introductory page of each tour.

    Breakfast Daily

    Breakfasts are commonly served buffet style at your hotel, with a selection of rolls, butter, jam, cheese, cold cuts, coffee, tea, milk and juice. Breakfast buffets usually also include one or more other items such as cereal, pastries, fruit, yogurt, eggs, and/or local breakfast foods .

    Tour Manager

    An experienced representative will accompany the tour and handle all the arrangements for the full European duration. Generally, the Tour Manager who greets you upon arrival in Europe will be the same Tour Manager who will accompany you throughout your entire tour. All our Tour Managers pride themselves on many years of experience, having traveled extensively in the regions covered on our tours. All reside in Europe and are multi-lingual with a fluency in English. Each is trained for the particular tours he or she will escort and is recertified for our tours annually. Our Tour Managers get to know you, dig deep to find answers to your questions, and add their personal touch to turn your tour into the "vacation of a lifetime."

    Personal Assistive Listening System (P.A.L.S.)

    A lightweight, hands-free assistive listening system (including a receiver with a lanyard and an earbud) is provided to each traveler to allow for convenient and clear reception of tour manager commentary during guided walks. Specially designed ear pieces are available to accommodate hearing aids.

    Baggage Handling

    Baggage handling at hotels is provided for one suitcase per person, with a maximum of 62 linear inches and a maximum of 50 lbs. For more details, see "How often will I need to carry my own luggage?" and " Baggage Allowances".

    Tips for Included Services

    The tour price includes tips for all aspects of the tour that are pre-arranged by Image Tours, such as hotels, restaurants and other services. Tips for the tour manager and motor coach driver are not included. For tipping guidelines, refer to "Are Tips for the Tour Manager & Driver Included?".

    Land Transportation

    A deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach will provide transportation throughout Europe in accordance with the itinerary. Image Tours requires that the motor coaches used for our tours must be state-of-the-art models of no older than five years; one of the toughest standards in the European tour business. Although our motor coaches are government rated for standard class seating of up to 53 passengers, we provide comfort-class seating for a maximum of 46 passengers on the majority of our tours, providing extra leg room and greater comfort. Daily seat rotation allows you to view Europe's spectacular scenery from all angles. Our motor coach drivers are selected by meeting our high standards for experience, courtesy and professionalism. They not only possess outstanding driving skills with safety as their number one priority, but also take pride in keeping the motor coach comfortable and clean throughout your tour.

    Airport Transfers

    One scheduled group airport transfer is hosted by the tour manager on Day 2 and again on the last day of the tour. The transfer time is based on the scheduled flight times of passengers who have purchased the complete Tour & Air Inclusive package from Image Tours. For details, see 'Are Airport Transfers Included?'.

    Confirmation Packet

    Approximately one month after Image Tours receives your completed Reservation Application and deposit, you will receive a Confirmation Packet consisting of reservation verification and our highly informative TOUROCLOPEDIA® trip preparation booklet, with travel tips and other information to help you get ready for your tour of Europe.

    Trip Documents

    At least one week prior to the tour departure date, you will receive a Trip Documents Packet. This contains preparation reminders, departure day travel tips, arrival instructions, flight information, overnight schedule (with the names, addresses and telephone numbers of hotels), foreign currency information, luggage tags and a name tag.

  • Call (318) 323-3465 for more information or to book today! Mention code 10478531

    Tour Operator
    Image Tours
    Duration
    17 Days
    Escorted
    Escorted - Yes
    DayDestinationDescription
    Day 1Overnight Flight to EuropeOvernight Flight to Europe.
    Refer to 'Preparing for your Departure' in your Trip Documents for easy check-in procedures. Take time to relax on your transatlantic flight with the assurance that Image Tours has taken care of all the details.
    Day 2AmsterdamHOLLAND . . Arrival at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport - Dutch Lowlands
    Rotterdam.
    Day 3RotterdamHOLLAND . . Delft - Amsterdam - Rotterdam.
    Today's visit to Delft provides a charming introduction to your Dutch experience. Prepare to be captivated by the picturesque streets lined with medieval buildings, characteristic canals, friendly cafes offering Dutch pancakes, and inviting shops selling the famous Delft Blue earthenware. Communicating will not be a problem as English is widely spoken throughout the Netherlands (Holland). Continue to the vibrant city of Amsterdam to shop and admire the fascinating architecture in the area surrounding the Royal Palace and main square. Return to the Rotterdam area for an included dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)
    Day 4MaastrichtBELGIUM . . Antwerp & HOLLAND . . Margraten American Military Cemetery - Maastricht.
    This morning make your way to the Belgian province (state) of Flanders and its capital, Antwerp, known for its convivial atmosphere and cozy outdoor cafes. Join a short orientation walk and explore the old city center. Be sure to try a Belgian waffle. There are also fine lace and irresistible chocolate shops on the Grote Markt, the city's attractive main square. Next, head for the hilly Ardennes region of eastern Belgium. For many, the stop at the Margraten American Military Cemetery is an emotional experience. The graves of over 8,000 American servicemen stand in everlasting memory to the sacrifices of World War II. For the location of specific graves, visit the website www.abmc.gov. Your hotel this evening is conveniently situated near the converging borders of Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. (Breakfast, Dinner)
    Day 5SchriesheimGERMANY . . Rhine Cruise - Heidelberg - Schriesheim.
    In Germany, some of your travel will be on the Autobahn, the first state-of-the-art superhighway system, which was expanded by Hitler. Near Koblenz, leave the Autobahn and wind through the Rhine River Valley to Boppard. A pleasure boat awaits you for an upstream cruise on the Rhine River. You will glide past medieval fortresses, endearing villages, and hillside vineyards known for producing the distinctive Rhine wines. Continue to Heidelberg, situated on the Neckar River and dominated by the ruins of Heidelberg Castle. This renowned university town is considered by many to embody the spirit of Germany. Your tour manager will accompany you on a walking tour of the Old Town. Following your visit to Heidelberg, proceed to the neighboring village of Schriesheim for hotel check-in and dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)
    Day 6AdelsriedGERMANY . . Rothenburg - Romantic Road - Adelsried.
    This morning, travel to the storybook town of Rothenburg, a beautifully preserved medieval village surrounded by the original town walls. When you see the narrow cobblestone streets, distinctive inns and charming shop fronts, it feels as if you are walking into a fairy tale. During your free time, climb to the top of the Town Hall Bell Tower for a bird's-eye view of the city, walk atop the old city walls, check out the Medieval Criminal Museum which exhibits tools of punishment from more draconian times, or stroll through the castle gardens overlooking the River Tauber. Delightful shopping awaits you at Kathe Wohlfahrt's Weihnachtsdorf, a sprawling, year-round Christmas shop. Your afternoon journey leads south on the Romantic Road. This area is rich in unspoiled countryside, historic castles and quaint villages. Tonight, your dinner at the hotel in Adelsried will be enlivened by accordian music. (Breakfast, Dinner)
    Day 7Tyrolean VillageGERMANY . . Munich & AUSTRIA . . Innsbruck - Tyrolean Village.
    Munich, the elegant capital of Bavaria, lies 60 kilometers (37-1/2 miles) to the east. Step out for free time at the Marienplatz, a pedestrian-only zone where historic buildings are cleverly interspersed with modern store fronts. The focal point of the square is the Rathaus (Town Hall) with its captivating Glockenspiel (clock tower). For lunch, consider the Hofbrauhaus, a one-of-a-kind beer hall which exudes an Oktoberfest atmosphere year-round. After lunch, head south to the Austrian border and travel along the Inn River as it winds its way through the Alps to the Imperial City of Innsbruck, capital of Tyrol and two-time host of the Winter Olympics. Bisected by the Inn River and surrounded by mountains, Innsbruck is a stunning setting. See the Imperial Church, Golden Roof, Maria Theresia Boulevard and the Triumphal Arch. A short distance from Innsbruck lies the Tyrolean Village where you will spend the next two nights in a chalet-style hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner)
    Day 8Tyrolean VillageAUSTRIA . . Tyrolean Village near Innsbruck.
    The peaceful villages, tucked in the valleys around Innsbruck, provide the perfect location for a relaxing day. Frescoed and flower-adorned chalets create an serene atmosphere as you walk through town. Viewed from an outdoor cafe or along one of the numerous hiking paths, the Tyrolean Alps present breathtaking scenery. If you would like to return to Innsbruck today, hotel staff can assist with taxi or public transportation information. Another choice is the full day optional Bavarian Palace excursion, which includes a guided tour of the extravagant Linderhof Palace. Try a local restaurant for your independent dinner or join the optional Tyrolean Show & Dinner excursion for an evening of authentic Austrian food, folklore, music and dancing. (Breakfast)
    Day 9VeronaITALY . . Dolomite Mountains - Lake Garda - Verona.
    Enter Italy via the Europa Bruecke (Bridge), a remarkable feat of mountain highway engineering through the Dolomites, a mountain range known for its reddish appearance. After the customary morning break, you are in for a special treat as you descend to Italy's largest lake, beautiful Lake Garda. In some places, the rocky cliffside rises straight up from the water. Its sheltered location gives the area a sub-tropical climate rich in vegetation, including oleander bushes, olive groves and fruit trees. An extended stop affords ample opportunity to stroll along the lakefront, browse the markets, and enjoy Italian ice cream (gelato). From here, it's a short ride to the legendary city of Verona, made famous by Shakespeare's tragic love story of "Romeo & Juliet." Experience an authentic Italian meal during your independent dinner in Verona before transferring to your hotel. (Breakfast)
    Day 10VeronaITALY . . Verona.
    Spend the day studying the fascinating architecture and browsing the fashionable shops of Verona, or relax along the shores of Lake Garda, sipping a Campari or cappuccino. Direct bus connections are available to either location and the hotel concierge can provide schedules and offer additional assistance. Another choice for today is to join the optional Venice excursion which includes dinner at a typical Venetian restaurant. Venice is famous for its canals, bridges, colorful gondolas and the magnificent St. Marks Square. After a memorable day of sightseeing, return to your hotel in Verona. (Breakfast)
    Day 11Swiss AlpsSWITZERLAND . . Lake Lugano - Gotthard Pass - Swiss Alps.
    Travel north towards the unsurpassed splendor of the Italian and Swiss lake districts. Crossing the border, Switzerland greets you with the contrast of snow-capped peaks as the background to the palm tree-lined Lake Lugano. Often referred to as the Rio de Janeiro of the Old Continent, Lugano is the perfect spot for a lunch break. In the afternoon, the 11-mile-long St. Gotthard Tunnel takes you from the Italian to the German-speaking region. Your hotel resides in one of the scenic Swiss Alps villages. (Breakfast, Dinner)
    Day 12BeauneSWITZERLAND . . Village of Stans - Lucerne & FRANCE . . Besancon - Beaune.
    Traveling through William Tell country, you descend upon Lake Lucerne. The soaring peaks of Rigi, Stanserhorn and Pilatus, standing guard over this vast water basin, create one of the most imposing sights in Europe. Today's first stop is the old mountain village of Stans with an optional Swiss Mountain excursion by funicular and cable car. Next, motor along the lake to the city of Lucerne, where you will see the Old Town Wall and famous Lion Monument. After an orientation tour, enjoy time to explore the Old Town, or relax on one of the lovely lakeshore promenades. This afternoon, the mountains give way to hilltop hilltop villages and rustic vineyards as you travel into France. Pause in Besancon where you can sample regional cuisine and wines during an independent dinner. Continue to your hotel in Beaune, the center of Burgundy wine country and one of hte best preserved medieval cities in this area. (Breakfast)
    Day 13ParisFRANCE . . Beaune - Paris.
    A leisurely morning in Beaune provides the opportunity to walk the medieval streets, visit shops offering delicious mustards and wine, or spend time at the intriguing Hospices Museum with its striking facade. Built in the 15th century as a hospital for the destitute, the museum houses items used in hospitals in the Middle Ages, as well as an impressive collection of furniture, pottery, paintings and tapestries. Arrive at your Paris hotel in the afternoon. Spend the evening in the Montmartre district, where Paris still looks as it does in old paintings and artists still display their works. Visit the impressive Sacre-Coeur Basilica and take in the spectacular views over Paris before choosing form one of the numerous bistros for your independent dinner. (Breakfast)
    Day 14ParisFRANCE . . Paris.
    Enjoy a full day in Paris. Your tour manager will direct you to the principal sights, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre (open daily except Tuesdays), Opera (Palais Garnier), the famous Galeries Lafayette department store, and the Champs-Elysees. Before beginning your free time, we suggest joining your tour manager for the optional Seine River Cruise excursion for unsurpassed views of some of the major landmarks. For dinner tonight, venture out on your own or join the optional Paris Evening excursion, with dinner at a characteristic French bistro located in the heart of Paris. (Breakfast)
    Day 15LondonENGLAND . . London.
    After breakfast, take the high-speed Eurostar train under the English Channel, arriving in London in less than three hours. A motor coach and local guide welcome you and point out London's famous landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Hyde Park, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Royal Parks and Buckingham Palace. After your introduction to London, transfer to the hotel for check-in, followed by a "Farewell Dinner." (Breakfast, Dinner)
    Day 16LondonENGLAND . . London.
    Spend the day pursuing personal interests. In the morning, the tour manager will offer an optional Tower of London excursion. If you wish to see the Changing of the Guard, check with the hotel because performances are limited to late mornings on select dates posted one month in advance and subject to special events or weather. The ideal way to tour London is by double-decker hop-on/hop-off day pass (approximately £38.00), giving you access to popular attractions at over 90 stops! Stop at the famous Harrods department store or view the spectacular collection of paintings at the National Gallery. London offers many independent dining and entertainment opportunities, or join your tour manager for an optional London Dinner & Theatre excursion. (Breakfast)
    Day 17Daytime flight back to U.S.ADaytime flight back to U.S.A.
    Transfer to the London airport for the return flight home. (Breakfast)
    Disclaimer

    The above departures reflect Land-Only per person pricing and TWIN pricing is based upon double occupancy. Any early booking discounts available will be reflected in the summary price after you pick your departure date, your accommodation type, and any additional options in the following steps. Please choose a departure date to continue pricing the tour.

      
    Online Agency Travel Websites