Europe Encompassed

Sign up for a travel adventure through some of the most romantic cities in Europe. Marvel at masterpieces in some of the world's best museums, explore fairytale castles and crooked medieval streets and enjoy gourmet local delicacies along the way. From romantic Venice to artistic Florence, a slice of Naples pizza here, a coastal interlude there and a hike up a volcano in between, Italy is plump full of delights. Cross the Mediterranean to the Greek islands and frolic in the playground of the gods. Stop by Athens to see the changing of the guard and, after one last beachside jaunt, conclude the adventure in incredible Istanbul amid the colour and chaos of the Grand Bazaar. Through a wonderful mixed bag of countries and with plenty of free time to enjoy each destination, this pocket of the world really is your oyster.

Be captivated by the romance of Paris, Become a chocolate connoisseur in Belgium, Appreciate art in Amsterdam, Dance until dawn in Berlin, Relive Poland's medieval glories, Wander Cesky's bohemian streets, Immerse in the musical culture of Vienna, Revel in the aquatic splendour of Venice, Peruse great art in Florence, Walk the Cinque Terre coastal path, Sip espresso with locals in Rome, Eat Italy's finest pizza in Naples, Swim in the warm waters off Corfu, Soak up the history of Athens, Ride a scooter around Santorini, Haggle in Istanbul's bazaars

Itinerary / Highlights

Days 1-2 Paris-
Be romanced by the City of Light and its wealth of iconic landmarks. Picnic under the Eiffel Tower or nibble macarons while strolling the glittering Champs Elysees.

Days 3-4 Bruges-
Indulge in some of the world's best beer and chocolate in this beautiful city of canals.

Days 5-6 Amsterdam-
Be inspired by the art and architecture in this captivating city. Go Dutch and see the sights by bicycle.

Days 7-10 Berlin-
Delve into this epic and progressive city - a mecca for artists and architects and home to some of the world's best nightlife.

Days 11-12 Krakow-
This former imperial capital is home to one of Europe's grandest town squares and an enchanting old quarter.

Days 13-14 Prague-
Castles, cathedrals and underground absinthe bars - there is plenty to see and do in the Czech Republic's bohemian hub.

Day 15 Cesky Krumlov-
Explore the fairytale castle and crooked medieval streets, or hit the Vltava for a spot of rafting.

Days 16-17 Vienna-
Explore romantic Vienna and indulge your artistic side by wandering through myriad museums. Take some time to visit the spectacular Schoenbrunn Palace.

Days 18-19 Budapest-
Grand old-world buildings, glamorous shops and glitzy restaurants make this one of Europe's greatest cities.

Days 20-21 Bled-
Whether by raft or rollerblade, in a canoe or a cave, enjoy this lakeside town at your leisure before scaling Mt Vogel for a breathtaking view across the Julian Alps.

Days 22-23 Venice-
Mingle with locals in a piazza and get a convict's final glimpse of Venice through the peepholes on the Bridge of Sighs.

Days 24-25 Cinque Terre-
Explore this highly prized jewel of the Mediterranean. Make the 12 km walk along the spectacular coastline and see what all the fuss is about.

Days 26-27 Florence-
Art lovers will be in heaven in this beautiful city. Admire Michelangelo's David, or take a stroll through the Uffizi Gallery.

Days 28-29 Rome-
Experience history as you wander the streets of the capital. Make a wish at the Trevi Fountain, climb the Spanish Steps, or just take some time out and sip a coffee in Piazza Navona.

Days 30-31 Naples-
Welcome to the home of pizza. Venture off the tourist trail, find a family run pizzeria and eat pizza as the locals do.

Day 32 Overnight ferry to Greece-
Catch a train to Bari, on the heel of the 'boot', and take an overnight ferry to Greece.

Days 33-34 Corfu-
Cool off in the sparkling waters and feast on the day's freshest catch by the harbour. Hike to Mt Pantokrator for an outlook over Albania and Italy, or get a bird's eye view of the island paragliding from one of the rocky outcrops.

Days 35-36 Athens-
Discover the birthplace of Western democracy and experience a collision between ancient and modern culture. See the iconic Acropolis and the original Olympic Stadium or plan a day trip to the Peloponnese peninsula.

Days 37-38 Santorini-
Take a ferry to an island paradise. Hike to the top of the impressive caldera or soak up the sun on the black sand beach. Find a good spot to see the sunset and end the day with an ouzo or two at a local tavern.

Day 39 Mykonos-
Named in honour of Apollo's grandson, Mykonos is a classic Greek island with squat white houses brightly juxtaposed against the cerulean sea. Follow narrow flower-bordered paths past ancient churches and tiny restaurants to secluded sandy beaches, and spend the afternoon soaking up the rays and splashing in the clear waters. With free time visit Delos - one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.

Days 40-41 Lesvos-
Known as the Emerald Island, Lesvos is home to over 11 million olive trees, a scattering of charming coastal resorts and a fascinating fossilised forest. Spend a full day discovering its delights and its beautiful beaches.

Day 42 Ayvalik-
Take a ferry to the Turkish town of Ayvalik, settled comfortably on the Aegean coast. Explore the cobbled backstreets and stay overnight in a beautiful traditional pension.

Days 43-44 Istanbul-
Finish this epic adventure in mosque-filled Istanbul. Marvel at the beauty of the Blue Mosque and soak up the atmosphere inside the immense Aya Sofya. Take a boat ride on the picturesque Bosphorus or just bargain up a storm in the Grand Bazaar.

Other Details

Accommodation Details

Basic hotels/hostels (33 nts), private apartments (2 nts), private rooms (4 nts), basic guesthouse (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt), overnight ferry (1 nt). Please note some accommodation is on a multishare basis and has shared facilities.

Departure Dates, Options & Prices

Allow EUR €1445 for meals not included.