Experience grand Europe at its very best. Discover energetic Berlin, charismatic Rome, imperial Budapest, radiant Paris, dramatic Swiss Alps, fairy-tail Prague, glorious Venice, bohemian Amsterdam, grand Vienna and breath-taking Croatia. Be awestruck by the natural beauty, epic history and dazzling artistic diversity of 15 countries across the romantic west and imperial east of the continent. Also discover Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, Florence, Innsbruck, Heidelberg, Black Forest, Rhine Falls, Titisee, Pisa, Dresden, Bruges, Ljubljana, Champagne region, Modena, Siena, Bratislava (Slovakia) and so much more. Experience the instantly recognisable and our special hidden gems. Explore the unimaginable wealth of attractions. History is all around you as we discover the everchanging landscapes, cultures, stories, art, architecture and cuisines. Enter a fairy-tale of castles, palaces and chateaux. Discover the real Europe with HolidayMax’s immersive escorted touring. Everything is included in this amazing value package, escorted touring, flights, London hotels, London touring and personalised transfers. Themes include: England, Lazio, Veneto, North Holland, West-Vlaanderen, Departs from London, Luxury Coach, Returns from Bruges. + Show more

Package Includes

Return international flights to London (premium airline)
Travel by modern large coach
Tour leader and host, with local guides
5 Nights London hotel (superior 4 Star)
2 Nights Paris hotel
2 Nights Lucerne hotel
2 Nights Sienna hotel
2 Nights Rome hotel
2 Nights Vienna hotel
2 Nights Berlin hotel
2 Nights Amsterdam hotel
1 Night Heidelberg hotel
1 Night Innsbruck hotel
1 Night Venice hotel
1 Night Zagreb hotel
1 Night Budapest hotel
1 Night Prague hotel
21 breakfasts, 9 dinners
Thames River cruise
Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Meet and Greet Personalised Transfers

Highlights

London (England) Berlin (Germany) Rome (Italy) Budapest (Hungary) Paris (France) Prague (Czech Republic) Venice (Italy) Amsterdam (Netherlands) Zagreb (Croatia) Vienna (Austria) Lucerne (Switzerland) Ljubljana (Slovenia) Bruges (Belgium) Tuscany (Italy) Florence (Italy) Dresden (Germany) Innsbruck (Austria) Modena (Italy) Bratislava (Slovakia) Siena (Italy) Leaning Tower of Pisa Vatican City Luxembourg City (Luxembourg) Vaduz (Liechtenstein) Heidelberg (Germany) Champagne Region Neuschwanstein Castle Black Forest Rhine Falls

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Descriptions

Amazing Experiences

• Experience London, Berlin, Rome, Budapest, Paris, Swiss Alps,

Prague, Venice, Amsterdam, Vienna, Lucerne and Zagreb (Croatia)

• Enjoy free flexi-days to explore Paris, Lucerne, Rome, Vienna,

Berlin & Amsterdam your way

• London flexi-tour, walking tour, Thames river cruise

• Visit Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, Florence, Innsbruck, Heidelberg,

Black Forest, Titisee, Rhine Falls, Pisa, Dresden, Bruges, Ljubljana,

Champaign region, Modena, Siena, Bratislava (Slovakia) and so

much more

• London welcome dinner in an historic British pub

• Driving tours of Paris & Berlin, experience the most iconic sights

• Incredible mountain drive through the Swiss Alps

• Champagne Tasting in Reims

• Walking tours with local guides, including Rome, Prague,

Florence, Venice, Lucerne (Swiss Alps), Heidelberg and Vienna

(Austria)

• Parisian restaurant dinner

• Canal cruise in Amsterdam, with special dinner

• Tours of imperial Budapest and energetic Berlin

• Cross the English Channel

• Free time at the dramatic Rhine Falls

• Special dinner in the Swiss Alps (Lucerne)

• Visit a cuckoo clock centre in the Black Forest

• Traditional balsamic vinegar tasting in Modena

• Italian leather making demonstration in Florence

• Explore Innsbruck with free time

• Locally prepared special dinner in Rome

• Special Croatian dinner in Zagreb

• Traditional German dinner in Berlin

• Special dinner in an historic Viennese wine cellar

• Immersive city touring with plenty of free-time to explore at your pace

• Tour the famous Neuschwanstein Castle

• Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa

• Explore Bruges (Belgium)

• Discover Luxembourg city

• Free time at the historic centre of Titisee

• Plus more immersive excursions and experiences…

DAY 1 Depart Australia for England

Today we depart for London, England. Fly on a premium award-winning airline like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Qantas or British Airways (subject to availability). Enjoy the attentive cabin service, regular meals and onboard entertainment system.

DAY 2 Arrive in London (England)

You will be personally met at London’s Heathrow Airport by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to your central London hotel. You can relax and use the rest of the day to explore your hotel and its facilities, perhaps take a stroll around this iconic city.

Meet and greet personalised arrival transfer, overnight London hotel

DAY 3 Tour London

Your first two full days in London are flexi-tours, so you can tour at your own pace, visiting places of most interest to you. Relax into London time with a choice of included touring options to suit your mood, before we embark on our fully escorted Grand Europe adventure.

London has something for everyone. Be immersed in history with eye-opening antiquity everywhere, be consumed by centuries of spectacular tradition or embrace cool Britannia’s culture, fine food and good times.

Your flexi-tour includes our enthralling walking tours, the special Evening Tour and a scenic river cruise on the Thames. You have 3 circular driving tours, stay on for the whole tour enjoying our guide’s entertaining commentary or get-off at any one of 51 incredible stops and re-join our next circular tour bus at your leisure. Explore must-see attractions like Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, Piccadilly Circus, Parliament Square, Big Ben, Knightsbridge, Natural History Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, Harrods, Hyde Park, Marble Arch, Kings Cross, Tower Bridge, Oxford Street shops, Madame Tussauds, the Tower of London and more. Alternatively, find your own piece of captivating London.

Walking tours include “Royal Walk” (including the Changing of the Guards when scheduled), “Hidden Gems of the City of London Walk” and the “Hidden Gems of Westminster Walk”.

All 3 circular hop-on hop-off tours, a choice of walking tours, our special Evening Tour and the Thames river cruise are included – so tour as much as you like or simply take it easy.

Coach tour, overnight London hotel

DAY 4 Tour London & Cruise

Make the most of your second flexi-tour today. This is a great day to take your Thames River cruise. Your cruise through the heart of the River Thames takes you from Westminster past an array of amazing landmarks to Tower Pier with more entertaining commentary from your captain.

Perhaps also visit the King’s royal residence of Buckingham Palace, see Poets’ Corner and the Coronation Chair at Westminster Abbey, take a flight in one of the famous glass pods on the London Eye, climb the breathtaking heights of St Paul’s Cathedral’s domed galleries, soak in the exceptional view from the ultra-modern Shard building or test your nerves at the formidable Tower of London.

All 3 circular tours, choice of walking tours, our special Evening Tour and river cruise are included – so tour as much as you like or simply take it easy.

Coach tour, cruise, overnight London hotel

DAY 5 Escorted Tour of London

Today meet up with the tour leader of your fully escorted Grand Europe adventure and get to know your fellow travellers also joining us for our exciting tour. Discuss the special activities that lie in store over the next two weeks.

We then embark on a special guided tour of the British capital to find out why London is one of the most exciting and dynamic cities in the world, to learn more about its glorious history and, of course, the great British quirkiness. See the city’s most interesting and popular boroughs, amazing sights, eccentric traditions and royal regalia.

This evening we enjoy a special welcome dinner together in a historic and beautiful British pub, with an impressive choice of traditional English fare and contemporary cuisine.

Tour, welcome dinner, overnight London hotel

DAY 6 London to Paris (France)

Today we make our way to the English Channel for a crossing to France before journeying through the French countryside to Paris, arriving in the ‘City of Love’ in the afternoon.

Experience a tour of the splendid French capital to see some of the city’s most treasured landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Arc de Triomphe and more.

This evening enjoy a special dinner at an atmospheric Parisian restaurant in an iconic location.

Breakfast, ferry or Eurotunnel rail, dinner, overnight Paris hotel

DAY 7 Explore Paris

Choose how you’d like to experience this spectacular city with a selection of activities on offer. The wonderful thing about Paris is that there is always so much to experience here. Its monument-lined boulevards, museums, classical bistros and boutiques are complemented by a new wave of hip urban culture. The River Seine flows through the heart of the city, its banks are peppered with book sellers and market stalls. Famous architecture is scattered through the city, so exploring on foot is a great way of taking in every ounce of history. A River Seine cruise will take you right past many city highlights complete with fascinating commentary - such as Grand Palais, the Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral and National Assembly - to the famous Eiffel Tower for a birds eye view of Paris. Your HolidayMax tour leader is full of ideas and local knowledge, so that you can get the best out of your time here.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Paris and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the Paris Plus Tour ($107), An Evening in Montmartre ($83) or Parisian Cabaret with drinks ($149). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Paris hotel

DAY 8 Paris to Champagne to Luxembourg to Heidelberg (Germany)

This morning we head from Paris to the Champagne region for a special tasting of France’s most prized export. Champagne is one of the great historic provinces of France - a glorious patchwork of rolling vineyards - some planted by the Romans in the 3rd century, quaint cobblestone villages, cellar doors and stylish cities. With a near mythical reputation for its sparkling wines, immerse yourself in a world of clinking glasses and champagne maisons, who’s celebrated underground cellars can stretch for kilometres beneath the bucolic landscapes above.

We then travel to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, ranking among the world's top nations for both wealth and wine consumption. The fairy-tale capital, Luxembourg City, is perched on a dramatic clifftop and home to the Grand Ducal Palace. Enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace. See the remarkable medieval castles on Luxembourg’s rolling forested hills complemented by strings of quaint villages.

We continue to Germany and to resplendent Heidelberg for our final destination of the day. Inspiring painters, poets and novelists with its evocative charm, Heidelberg is Germany’s oldest and most famous university town. An iconic arched bridge crosses into the town’s striking baroque Altstadt; a gorgeous red-roofed townscape of astounding architectural unity, where the Gothic Heiliggeistkirche church overlooks the cafe-lined Marktplatz and the famed red-sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle sit at the verdant foothills of Königstuhl.

Enjoy a captivating tour of the city centre with free time to explore before meeting up for a delightful German dinner tonight at a local restaurant.

Breakfast, Champagne tasting, dinner, overnight Heidelberg hotel

DAY 9 Heidelberg to Black Forest to Lake Titisee to Rhine Falls to Lucerne (Switzerland)

This morning we journey to the famous home of Black Forest gâteau, cuckoo clocks and Hansel and Gretel. Experience the mesmerising Black Forest region with its dense, evergreen forests and picture-perfect fairytale villages, rolling vineyards, luscious meadows and sunny mountain peaks. The gorgeous half-timbered villages, stout farmhouses and gothic buildings are said to be the inspiration for the Grimm Brothers' fairy tales. Stop at a Cuckoo Clock Shop - a local family business in the heart of the forest, with time for some gâteau. Enjoy free time at tranquil Lake Titisee to explore the spa town.

We then travel to Switzerland and stop at the stunning Rhine Falls, the largest plain waterfall in Europe (option to take a boat ride to the falls).

Our final stop today is Lucerne for a remarkable walking tour of this beautiful medieval town resplendent in its spectacular mountain setting.

Enjoy a delicious Swiss dinner tonight.

Today you’ll have some time to explore Rhine Falls your own way or enjoy the optional Rhine Falls Cruise ($42). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, dinner, overnight Lucerne hotel

DAY 10 Explore Lucerne

Choose how you’d like to experience beautiful Lucerne with a selection of activities on offer. Nestled beside a cobalt blue lake against a mesmerising backdrop of snowcapped mountains, Lucerne’s picture-perfect old town is dotted with candy-coloured houses, sunny cobbled-stone plazas and magnificent medieval architecture. The famed Musegg Wall and its 9 towers border the historic centre to the north, while a stunning 14th century covered wooden bridge links the lively alleyways of the old town.

You can easily explore Lucerne’s well-preserved medieval town, cobalt lake, waterfront promenades, covered bridges and perfect plazas yourself. It’s highly recommended that you venture even further up into the Swiss Alps on the cable car. Your HolidayMax tour leader is full of ideas and local knowledge, so that you can get the best out of your time here.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Lucerne and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the Mount Pilatus Excursion ($132) or a Lake Lucerne Panoramic cruise ($42). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Lucerne hotel

DAY 11 Lucerne to Vaduz (Liechtenstein) to Neuschwanstein Castle (Austria) to Innsbruck

This morning we farewell Switzerland and head into the Principality of Liechtenstein, one of the world's tiniest and richest countries. It’s like a fairy-tale country set among mountain ranges that rise steep and rugged above the Rhine. See dramatic Vaduz Castle, the official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein.

Tour the incredible Neuschwanstein Castle - the inspiration for the famous Disneyland castle – perched high on a dramatic German hilltop built in the 19th century by Ludwig II of Bavaria.

Austria is our fourth country today. Innsbruck is a sight to behold with its dramatic mountain backdrop. Its medieval Altstadt is picture-book stuff, presided over by a grand Habsburg palace and baroque cathedral; while its modern side includes an impressive Olympic ski jump. Enjoy a guided tour followed by some free time in this vibrant mountain sports destination.

Today you’ll have the evening to explore Innsbruck your own way or enjoy the optional Tyrol Folk Evening & Dinner ($108). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, entry into Neuschwanstein Castle overnight Innsbruck hotel

DAY 12 Innsbruck to Modena (Italy) to Siena

This morning we head south through Austria to Italy to encounter some of the most beautiful countryside in central Europe. As the famous Brenner Pass appears before you, it will simply take your breath away.

Our first stop is Modena for a special balsamic vinegar tasting. The birthplace of opera legend Luciano Pavarotti and famed for its links with Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati, Modena is also one of Italy’s great gastronomic centres. The sweet smell of Modena’s trademark aged balsamic vinegar fills the narrowly winding streets of its oldtown; a labyrinth of colourful facades, inviting piazzas and remarkable restaurants, with red tiled rooftops and the Modena Cathedral towering overhead.

We journey through the spectacular Tuscan countryside made famous by numerous great painters to the medieval masterpiece of Siena. Experience a fascinating tour followed by some free time to explore. One of Italy’s best-preserved medieval cities, Siena is home to a remarkable ensemble of red brick gothic architecture and early Renaissance art. The magnificent 14th century Torre del Mangia tower soars above the town; its sun drenched central square extending out into the city’s historic districts, where vibrant narrow streetscapes and steep alleys are brimming with enticing restaurants, wafting pasticcerie aromas and unmistakable Tuscan charm.

Breakfast, overnight Siena hotel

DAY 13 Siena to Pisa to Florence to Siena

Today we continue our Tuscan adventure immersing ourselves in the region’s capital of Florence and the famed Leaning Tower of Pisa. Learn about refined Italian leather-crafting as we visit a leather craftsman and delight in a captivating walking tour of the city. It’s the cradle of the Renaissance culture; it’s romantic, enchanting and completely irresistible. Learn about the legacy of the Medicis and see the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, featuring Michelangelo’s ‘David’. See the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Ponte Vecchio.

The breathtaking terracotta-tiled dome of the Duomo di Firenze cathedral rises up above narrow cobbled streetscapes, dotted with 15th and 16th century palazzi, medieval candle-lit chapels, marble basilicas and fresco-clad churches. Artistic and architectural masterpieces lay in wait at every turn; from Botticcelli’s ‘The Birth of Venus’ to Michelangelo’s ‘David’ in the Piazza della Signoria.

Enjoy free time here this afternoon to explore more of this intoxicating city. Perhaps indulge in a special Taste of Tuscany lunch before losing yourself amidst the enchanting and quintessentially Italian streetscapes of Florence. You could begin at the iconic Uffizi Gallery - home to an unparalleled collection of Renaissance masterpieces by artists like Botticelli and Michelangelo, stroll across the Ponte Vecchio - a historic bridge adorned with jewellery shops, or savour the charm of the Oltrarno district - known for its artisan workshops. Perhaps return to soak up more of the breathtaking beauty of the Florence Cathedral, with its mesmerising dome designed by Brunelleschi or simply relish a refreshing gelato in Piazza della Signoria, surrounded by the splendid sculptures of Loggia dei Lanzi as you delight in the artistic streetscapes of the cultural gem that is Florence.

Later this afternoon we continue on to Pisa to see the famous 800 year old Leaning Tower of Pisa. This compelling small city is best known for an architectural venture gone very wrong. The leaning tower is one of the most memorable sights in Europe and one of the seven medieval wonders of the world. Enjoy some free time here to ensure you capture the best images possible for your inspirational collection. Soak up the Tuscan Charm of this iconic Italian destination - a city alive with energy and culture. The Leaning Tower, glistening in marble white, is a truly mesmerising sight to behold; radiating wonder over the breathtaking Campo dei Miracoli. Galileo once taught at the elite local University, which today bestows a vivacious student edge to the city’s glorious portfolio of gorgeous Romanesque buildings, Gothic churches and Renaissance piazzas.

Today you’ll have some time to explore Florence your own way or enjoy the optional Taste of Tuscany ($122). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Siena hotel

Day 14 Siena to Rome

Continue through the magnificent Italian countryside to the eternal city of Rome. Italy’s hot-blooded capital is one of the world’s most romantic and charismatic cities. Feel this energy and excitement as you start to approach.

Rome’s 3,000 year old cityscape is awash with priceless artistic treasures. Ancient icons such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon recall the city’s golden age as the capital of the world, while monumental basilicas and picturesque piazzas adorned with baroque facades and neighbourhood trattoria speak to the cities unrivalled complexity.

Our local guide will introduce you to this intoxicating place on an exhilarating guided tour. Visit The Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Roman Forum and Colosseum and Trevi Fountain (coins at the ready).

This evening, we indulge in a traditional Roman dinner, showcasing the region’s bold flavours and fresh local produce. A perfect introduction to your stay in this eternal city.

Breakfast, dinner, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 15 Explore Rome

Choose how you’d like to experience this incredible world city with a selection of activities on offer. Perhaps discover its vibrant street life, ancient ruins and awe-inspiring art yourself.

You’ll be spoilt for choice with compelling attractions like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Vatican City, The Pantheon, Arch of Constantine, Roman Forum, Centro Storico, Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza Navona, Villa Borghese Gallery and Gardens, the Catacombs and Via Appia Antica. Maybe browse the stylish Roman boutiques or relax sipping an expresso people watching. Your HolidayMax tour leader is full of ideas and local knowledge so that you can get the best out of your time here.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Rome and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like Rome Conquer the Capital ($99) or Colosseum & Roman Forum Guided Tour ($132). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 16 Rome to Venice

Today we set off through the enchanting Italian countryside to Venice, a city built on more than 100 small islands that are lined with splendid Renaissance and Gothic palaces. It has no roads, just canals like the famous Grand Canal. The central square, Piazza San Marco, contains St. Mark’s Basilica, which is tiled with Byzantine mosaics, and the Campanile bell tower offering views of the city’s famous red roofs.

We experience a walking tour along the canals and ancient narrow laneways through the heart of Venice to find out why this is such a famous city. See the instantly recognisable Rialto Bridge, St Mark's Square, the Bridge of Sighs and the Doge's Palace. A fairy-tale city of dreamlike canals, winding cobbled footpaths and fuchsia-pink sunsets, Venice makes a habit of exceeding even the grandest of expectations. The Illustrious Grand Canal reflects atop its waters centuries of Venetian architecture enroute to Piazza San Marco, where St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile bell tower offer breathtaking views over this famous city.

Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore Venice. Perhaps sip an espresso, take a cruise along the canals on a gondola or relax and watch the world go by in one of the many piazzas.

You can explore Venice and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like An Evening in Venice ($198). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Venice area hotel

DAY 17 Venice to Ljubljana (Slovenia) to Zagreb (Croatia)

We continue east towards Croatia via Slovenia and its elegant capital of Ljubljana. Experience a brief stop in this little gem of a city. Despite its small size, you’ll be enchanted by Ljubljana’s beauty, which features a wealth of cultures, activities and sights. Ljubljana Castle overlooks the city and dates back to the 16th Century. It’s Its old town traces the leafy banks and emerald green waters of the winding Ljubljanica River. The streets are adorned with the stunning architecture of Jože Plecnik, his beautiful lamp posts and bridges peppering the pedestrian old town where quaint café terraces line the riverbank.

We journey from Slovenia into Croatia. Poised between the Balkans and central Europe, this land has been passed between competing kingdoms, empires and republics for millennia leaving behind a rich cultural legacy. Croatia is breathtaking, from the spectacular vineyards adorning the Dinaric Alps to the Gothic spired cathedrals and vibrant nightlife of Zagreb down to the Adriatic coast.

We arrive into Croatia’s capital city, Zagreb, with its distinctive Austro-Hungarian architecture. Enjoy a walking tour of this historic and remarkable city, learning about the fascinating influences on the place over hundreds of years, right up to the communist period. Zagreb rewards those on foot. We wander through the Upper Town with red-roofs and cobblestones, peppered with church spires. See the domes and ornate upper-floor frippery of the Lower Town's mash-up of secessionist, neo-baroque and art deco buildings.

Enjoy some free time to relax before our delightful dinner.

Breakfast, dinner overnight Zagreb hotel

DAY 18 Zagreb to Budapest (Hungary)

We say farewell to Croatia and continue to Hungary and to its spectacular imperial capital of Budapest – the grand city on the Danube. It has something for everyone – from dramatic history and flamboyant architecture to healing thermal waters and a vibrant cultural scene that is unrivalled in eastern Europe. Experience the best of Budapest as our local guide takes us on a memorable tour of this iconic city.

The towns of Buda and Pest on either side of the Danube became a single city in 1873 and is now one of Europe's most important cities. Architecturally, the city is a treasure trove, with baroque, neoclassical, eclectic and art nouveau buildings in abundance. Testament to the city’s cool urban vibe is its unique ‘ruin bars’, where dilapidated buildings have been reinvented into quirky watering holes complete with reclaimed furniture mixed with modern local art. Budapest is blessed with an abundance of hot springs and ‘taking the waters’ has been popular here since the time of the Romans, in one of the many bathhouses.

Your tour of Budapest starts on the Pest side of the Danube, then head across the river to the Buda side. See the Houses of Parliament and drive along the river admiring the city. Experience the incredible views from atop Gellert Hill and the Citadel, stop at Heroes Square and admire St Stephen's Basilica, the State Opera and the castle district.

Tonight, we recommend taking an optional panoramic evening cruise along the River Danube, with incredible views of the famous Hungarian Parliament building, Buda Castle Hill, Fisherman’s Bastion, the Chain Bridge and many more of the city's great sights. Experience this iconic city come alive at night from the river. Enjoy the chance to savour some of the local cuisine. Despite its most famous food being medieval goulash, Hungarian food is one of the most sophisticated styles of cooking in Europe.

Tonight you’ll have free time to explore Budapest at your own pace or join an additional optional activity like a Danube Evening Dinner Cruise ($108) or visit the Széchenyi Medicinal Bath, one of the most famous icons of the city and Europe’s largest medicinal baths. Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Budapest hotel

DAY 19 Budapest to Bratislava (Slovakia) to Vienna (Austria)

Today we leave Hungary and head to Slovakia, to visit its capital Bratislava. We take a tour of this medieval and Gothic city, set on the banks of the Danube River. The alluring pedestrian old town is a mosaic of winding cobbled streets adorned with medieval and gothic churches, baroque palaces and quirky cafes.

We continue to Austria with its glorious alpine scenery and monumental Habsburg architecture; where flower freckled meadows grace the hilltops and glacial lakes sparkle like gemstones in the summer sun.

Experience a driving tour of its spectacular imperial capital, Vienna. You can see this sophisticated exciting city is awash with gothic masterpieces and baroque churches, see the Schonbrunn Palace before reaching the Inner City and one of the best vistas from Belvedere Hill.

Few cities can show off such cultural and historical splendour and maintain a profile as an exciting, modern city, but Vienna does it well. Baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces set the stage for Vienna's artistic and musical masterpieces. Vienna is renowned as the 'City of Music’ with a deep classical heritage, home to some of the greatest ever musicians like Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and Brahms. Vienna has a buzzing modern culinary scene, rich coffee-house culture and bustling social scene.

Enjoy an enthralling walking tour of Vienna with our local guide. Learn about the great musical heritage and tales of the musical masters while we wander the impressive streets, starting at the Golden Mile on the Ring Strasse with the impressive Parliament, City Hall and Burgtheater. Then discover the courtyards and passages around the Hofburg (Imperial Castle) and St. Stephen’s Cathedral at Vienna’s geographic and historic centre.

Enjoy a special Austrian dinner tonight. Indulge in the magic of the evening as you savour a delectable meal in the historic embrace of a Viennese wine cellar, where each bite is infused with the richness of time and tradition.

Breakfast, dinner, overnight Vienna hotel

DAY 20 Explore Vienna

Choose how you’d like to experience this vibrant imperial city with a selection of activities on offer. Perhaps discover its artistic and musical masterpieces, its bustling Baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces, its coffee-house culture or lively epicurean and design scenes yourself.

Vienna’s trendy streets will surprise you with their endless array of experiences, sure to delight everyone. Maybe indulge in some incredible shopping, or tour some of the grandest palaces and most spectacular masterpiece-filled museums in the world or simply relax in a cosy coffee house or wine tavern.

Music comes to life through interactive exhibits at the captivating Haus der Musik museum. You’ll find the Sigmund Freud Museum strangely intriguing. Kunsthistorisches Museum houses the imperial art collection. It's packed with priceless works by Old Masters, and treasures including one of the world's richest coin collections. Vienna's imperial grandeur is the legacy of the powerful Habsburg monarchy ruling for more than six centuries.

The Naschmarkt is a bustling 16th century open-air market. Taste your way around Vienna’s diverse culinary history as you work through everything from barrels of sauerkraut to shawarma and Tel Aviv-style sabich. Other shopping ranges from very high-end fashion to quirky local produce. The Palmenhaus is a remarkably grand greenhouse, housing towering trees and plants from around the world. It doubles as a restaurant and bar, serving modern Austrian specialties like Schnitzel. You can ‘walk the Ringstrasse’, visit Hofburg Palace or explore the Museums Quartier offering everything from the world’s finest Egon Schiele collection to an array of trendy bars, cafés and restaurants to a sculpture park.

The Viennese appreciation of the finer things in life extends to its opulent coffee-house 'living rooms' serving spectacular cakes. Its beloved pub-like Beisln dish up hearty portions of Wiener schnitzel, Tafelspitz (prime boiled beef) and goulash. The vaulted Vinothek (wine bar) cellars and the rustic vine-draped Heurigen (wine taverns) have the finest Austrian wines. Your HolidayMax tour leader is full of ideas and local knowledge so that you can get the best out of your time here.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Vienna and the amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity, like the Imperial Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace & Viennese Café ($132) or a Vienna Classical Music Concert ($124). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Vienna hotel

DAY 21 Vienna to Prague (Czech Republic)

We farewell Austria and continue our journey on through the old iron-curtain to the Czech Republic and splendid fairy tale Prague. Prague is the equal of Paris in terms of beauty. Its history goes back a millennium and is renowned to have the best beer in Europe. It’s well recognised as an exquisite city, boasting elaborate baroque, gothic, art nouveau and cubist architecture. Known for its abundance of art, your exploration of Prague will be a truly rewarding one. Prague will come to life during your walking tour of the city with a local guide. See quirky bars, cobbled lanes and beautiful courtyards.

Choose how you’d like to experience this splendid city with a selection of activities on offer this afternoon. Perhaps treat yourself to the fairy tale magic of Prague and revisit some of the places you saw this morning like the majestic Prague Castle, the famous Charles Bridge, the ‘Old Town’ or the Jewish Quarter. Lose yourself in Prague's myriad of twisting lanes. There is also a ‘Secret Garden’, which leads to a man-made grotto (if you can find it). Prague's dramatic history is reflected in the beauty of the architecture of churches, opera houses, concert halls and parks. You could sample the famous local beer or visit the John Lennon tribute - Lennon wall - with its words of peace, which is added to daily. Your HolidayMax tour leader is full of ideas and local knowledge so that you can get the best out of your time here.

This afternoon is free flexi-time so you can explore Prague and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or and perhaps choose an optional activity this evening like the Traditional Czech Folk Music & Dance Evening ($99). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Prague hotel

DAY 22 Prague to Dresden (Germany) to Berlin

Today we continue onto Germany, driving through the beautiful Saxony region heading for Dresden. When admiring Dresden’s elegant spires, towers, domes, palaces, churches and stately buildings - it's hard to believe that the city was destroyed in World War II. It has had a remarkable painstaking restoration to fully restore its grand buildings. Enjoy some time here, perhaps indulge in some local German food for lunch - such as Bratwurst - and wander the beautiful paved streets.

We leave Dresden behind travelling through the German countryside to its bold and vibrant capital Berlin. Bursting with history, and still carrying some scars from the cold war, Berlin has today developed a remarkable combination of cutting-edge glamour and grunge.

Experience an enthralling driving tour of Berlin with a local guide. Breathe in the culture of this big multicultural metropolis with positive energy bursting in every direction. We also see a number of poignant locations like Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, the Site of Hitler’s Former Bunker, Luftwaffe HQ, 17th June Street, The Berlin Wall, The Former SS Headquarters, and Checkpoint Charlie. Learn the story of this city. Einstein, Marx, Hitler, JFK, Bismarck and Bowie are some of the famous people that have shaped – and been shaped by – Berlin.

Celebrate our arrival into Berlin with a scrumptious German dinner.

Breakfast, dinner, overnight Berlin hotel

DAY 23 Explore Berlin

Choose how you’d like to experience this exciting city with a selection of activities on offer. Perhaps explore its vibrant trend-setting culture, striking history, cutting-edge architecture, fabulous food or just relax into the unpretentious charm of this big international village.

Berlin is bursting with character. You’ll be amazed at the fascinating diversity of attractions, places and people. You’re sure to want to visit the most famous landmarks like the Berlin Wall, CheckPoint Charlie, Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag. You can also explore Berlin’s friendly, energetic and gritty cultural scene, along with its sophisticated shopping and dining.

A raft of other captivating experiences are also waiting to be had, like the Spree Riverfront, Gendarmenmarkt square, Museum Island, Berliner Dom, Topography of Terror, East Side Gallery, Pergamonmuseum, The Holocaust Memorial, Potsdamer Platz, Charlottenburg Palace, Pergamon Museum and Friedrichstadt-Palast. Check-out the Hackescher Markt known for its unique shopping boutiques, street art and nightlife. Kreuzberg is a hip corner of Berlin with loads of character, making it a perfect place to wander about admiring the street art, graffiti and friendly cafes. Maybe just take some time out to relax at the Tiergarten (enormous, beautiful park) or the renowned Botanical Garden. Your HolidayMax tour leader is full of ideas and local knowledge so that you can get the best out of your time here.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Berlin and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the Berlin Plus Tour ($116) or Berlin Food Tour ($99). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Berlin hotel

DAY 24 Berlin to Amsterdam (Netherlands)

Continue through Germany onto Holland. As we journey through the Dutch countryside, you’ll notice the many windmills and waterways as we approach Amsterdam. We have some free time to explore Amsterdam. It has a stunning canal district with an incredible dining scene featuring an endless list of restaurants and cafes and hundreds of museums.

Tonight, we all enjoy a special cruise on Amsterdam’s scenic canals. You’ll discover that the story of Amsterdam is intimately connected with water and its 165 canals, that are now world heritage listed. Amsterdam was reclaimed from the sea making the canals and harbour cruise the best way to experience many of the city’s highlights.

We also enjoy a special dinner featuring Dutch cuisine.

Breakfast, dinner, Amsterdam Canal Cruise, overnight Amsterdam hotel

DAY 25 Explore Amsterdam

Choose how you’d like to experience bohemian Amsterdam today with a selection of activities on offer. Perhaps venture off to explore Holland's 700-year-old capital that is both sophisticated and modern. Maybe visit the enchanting old town and trend-setting new parts. You’ll never know what you’ll find around the corner in this fascinating city, built around magnificent canals and atmospheric narrow lanes – and with more push-bikes than people. Perhaps take a bike tour. Your HolidayMax tour leader is full of ideas and local knowledge so you can get the best out of your time here.

You also have the option of joining a tour of the Dutch countryside. Experience the historical windmill village of Zaanse Schans and discover how they were vital to the industrial development of the Netherlands. See the historic polder drainage windmill built in1636. Visit the quaint seaside village of Volendam and wander the main street filled with cafes and local nick-nacks and admire the sprawling views. Famous for cheeses like Gouda, Edam, Maasdam and Boerenkaas, you’ll savour a visit to a Dutch cheesemaker. Learn all about the quirky clog and its cultural significance from a clog maker.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Amsterdam and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the Dutch Countryside Tour ($83) or the Dutch Pancake Soiree ($66). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Amsterdam hotel

DAY 26 Amsterdam to Bruges (Belgium) to London (England)

Say farewell to the Netherlands as we make our way to Belgium, and the fairy-tale town of Bruges. This is one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities. Picturesque cobbled lanes and dreamy canals link photogenic market squares lined with soaring towers, historical churches and lane after lane of old whitewashed almshouses. Famous for its beer, waffles, chocolate and moules et frites there is plenty to tempt you here. Enjoy free time to explore Bruges and experience the fairy-tale cobblestone streets, historic old churches and lofty towers.

We continue on towards the English Channel and back into the United Kingdom and London.

Breakfast, ferry or Eurotunnel rail, overnight London hotel

DAY 27 Say goodbye to London

Time to say farewell to your fellow travellers and friendly tour hosts as your grand tour through 15 enchanting European countries draws to an end.

You will be personally met at your hotel by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to London Heathrow airport for your flight home.

Meet and greet personalised departure airport transfer

DAY 28 Arrive home

Enjoy the attentive service on your premium airline flight home.

Escorted Tour Details

Overview What to Expect Freedom and Flexibility Modern Coaches

Tour Leader Your Mobility & Fitness

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Escorted Coach Touring

Cherish the unforgettable moments of your HolidayMax escorted tour featuring unparalleled sightseeing and enriching cultural experiences. We are passionate about showing you the heart of the destination, enabling you to be truly touched by new experiences.

Your knowledgeable Tour Leader and host will ensure you get the best personal experience on your journey. Tours feature all the must-see sights along with our little-known exclusive hidden gems and special touches in each destination, with plenty of free-time for you to take it all in for yourself. Enjoy the freedom to tailor your holiday in your free-time, including whole free-days that give you a choice of activities to suit your mood on the day.

Stay in quality handpicked hotels. Savour deliciously authentic local dining in outstanding restaurants with a mouth-watering array of culinary experiences. Travel in large modern coaches with expansive windows for an incredible elevated view, in your comfortable seat with generous legroom.

Experience HolidayMax’s renowned immersive touring or river cruising. Join us on an unforgettable journey of discovery. We’ve taken care of the details; you just need to relax and embrace your sense of adventure.

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* Starting holiday costs, per person, for 2 people sharing, on selected travel dates (off-peak). Travel on other dates attracts a surcharge. As prices vary based on travel dates, be flexible with dates to get the best deals! Itinerary and vehicle types subject to change without notice. Subject to limited availability at these prices, after which higher prices apply, book now. Some governments and service operators have travel requirements. Your included flights advised via email with 24 hours to select alternative flights, routing, airline or dates (alternatives may be at a higher price). Included flights may not be the most direct routing. Arrive earlier/stay longer for specified airports only. Stop-overs are not possible. Subject to Booking Conditions, ' see Important Information before booking. © DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Booking Code: mp585