We liked the balance of scheduled group activities and the peace of being taken care of, along with many independent adventures. Each one felt more exciting than the last. ", Guides were informative and well organized. He was so knowledgeable about the history, culture and current events in each of the places we visited. Before we sit down to a hearty country-style dinner together, we'll see how it's made, as our chef gives us a special Tuscan cooking demonstration. The time on the bus flew by as he spoke of these things and while we were in the locations he made the places come alive! Morning walk in the Swiss Alps, the seven mile scooter ride in Munich, Tuscany and Ciro and Son's Gluten Free pizza in Florence.". It gave a small glimpse of each country making you want to come back. Day 3 - Paris. Day 4 - Travel to the French Riviera (I'll say Nice for simplicity) via TGV, sleep there 2 nights. 3. I had some preconceived notions about Europe that were totally wrong! First time in Europe so everything was new to us. At each of our prior visits they were covered by fog and clouds. Our guides, bus driver, tour group, hotels, cities, sights, etc were so great; I can't wait to go back. There were well planned experiences for building up excitement and then allowing for relaxation to and recovery. However, if it is the first time you visit Europe, you can feel overwhelmed by all the information you find on the internet. Need help figuring out the nuts and bolts of the Eurail Pass? I looked forward to the itinerary for the next day. Also our tour guide Dave surprised
12-Day Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary: Zurich - Geneva - Bologna - Florence. Day 1: Arrive in Oslo. Sitting at Pests riverbank is the worlds third largest parliament building. "The view of the Lauterbrunnen Vally from Murren in Switzerland.". Day 1 - arrive Paris, sleep there 3 nights. We got to see the Pope on Mothers Day which was incredible.". Tour guide had many good qualities, but often tended to ramble without a clear topic sentence. Burn off your lunch and hike up 14 flights of stairs. Our Florence tour guide, Cynthia, gave me an appreciation for art with her explanation. I have seen pictures of the waterways and bridges
. "The bus pulled over to a viewing spot in Switzerland where the view was extra spectacular. I really appreciated all the attention to details that I know I would have missed as a first-timer. Being from Washington I enjoyed the Alps given the majestic beauty - but reflecting back I enjoyed the evenings in Paris and the Eiffel Tower as it sparkled on the hour.". moment was when all our COVID tests came back negative (all the group could agree on this). The guides were excellent, the hotels were wonderful, and sharing our experiences with a lot of fun people on the tour bus. Beaune was very quiet but very pleasant place to be.". Here are some of the places you should visit: The second city will be in Madrid. Our guide Darija was fantastic, and its obvious Rick Steves' tours are well though out with an attention to details that make a big difference. So much so that we are going to try to plan our future travels around towards that he leads. They encouraged us to explore and enjoy each place we went. The food was varied and gave us a taste of each country. "As an outdoor person, the best day was spent hiking in Swiss Alps during our stay in Oberland. We'll take an orientation walk through Beaune, visit the Htel Dieu the town's medieval hospital and discover why Burgundy's wine is world-renowned as we enjoy a tasting together. Most importantly, I had the opportunity to meet a lot of interesting fellow travelers. The mere exterior of the library will leave you breathless and thinking youre in an old-school magical movie. If youre not shy, you could even join some of the locals suntanning in the nudist garden! Better yet, get lost (remember, it's an island) exploring the alleys, cruising the canals, and "crawling" the pubs. We just spent the whole last summer in Europe, and it was terrific. Munich Airport to Hauptbahnhof Station: The Lufthansan Express Bus Transfer (S$16.10 via Klook) runs every 15 minutes. . Days 1-2: Venice. It was very cloudy and overcast when we went to the top of the mountain. They really emphasize that it is YOUR TRIP and you should experience it anyway you choose to. The tour was amazing. Our tour included a nice mix of scheduled activities and free time to explore on our own. Tonight we'll have our final dinner together, sharing memories and toasting our newly made friends. We felt we had been transported back to a different world! I have to say it is very difficult to choose one moment as there were many and all so different.". However, I wish we could have stayed in Tuscany one more day. the cable cars, and the waterfalls. Amidst the mountains there is a feeling that moves you, you feel it, and you realize just how small you really are. Best of all, 14 days Europe trip plan let you explore the best of it all. 20 day sightseeing trip through Copenhagen, Nordkapp, Alta and 9 other destinations in 4 different countries. Pack some breakfast and make sure you wear proper shoes, because youll be hiking up 610 meters. It also has lots of activities happening like fire-breathing performances, especially in the evening. "On our last day in Paris, our group walked to the Eiffel Tower. Got to be one of the most spectacular places on the planet.". Perfect!! We learned background information that made Rome and Venice especially much more intriguing. Our guide did quite a bit of orienting us and teaching us to navigate on our own. For those who want to rent a car to drive through the Balkans, I recommend this 14 days Balkans road trip itinerary. We had a wonderful guide, good weather overall, nice travel companions, wonderful food and good local tour guides! The serene setting, the hiking, the trip to what seemed like the top of the Alps, the small walkable towns on the hillsides all were absolutely amazing.". Not too far from the city centre, every pillar has its own dragon. It was an awesome,wonderful amazing tour. Our Guide Ragen made the trip so much fun. Third moment was Oktoberfest! His knowledge of the different areas we visited was very good and he also would give little tutorials in the language of the places to ensure that we were able to be good representatives of the U.S. "For me the gondola ride and hike in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland was a thrill! The countryside of the Swiss Alps were beautiful..I had no idea!". "Because I love mountains, traveling to mountain tops above the Swiss valley where our hotel was located was wonderful. Yes no grumps makes for an enjoyable experience. Rick Steves is lucky to have both! very moved by Dachau and the military cemetery in Italy.". *Pro-tip: Capture better pictures from the other end of the bridge. "Lauterbrunnen Switzerland! Sleep with street noise and no (or weak) air conditioning. 15. We started the tour in Rome and completed the trip in Paris. ", "It is hard to describe because each experience was different, but none was better than the other. "Having been to Europe before, with another company, my wow moment was truly the knowledge of our guide (Filippos) sharing everything about just how easy it is for Americans to be accepted in European cities. "There were multiple "Wow" moments! We enjoyed getting a taste of all the cities we visited along with a deeper cultural understanding of each location. My only regret is not being able to spend more time with each of them. 1, 110 00 Star Msto, Czechia. How to Choose the Best One Week Itinerary for a Europe Trip: 20 Europe Itinerary Ideas . RSE really did their homework for this first tour in 2 1/2 years. It has a lot of attractions and tourist places. I was pleased from beginning to end. Thetravel pace was the most grueling of all our 11 Rick trips, "The entry into the Laterbrutten valley always blows me away. This was my third Rick Steve's tour and it did not disappoint. *Pst: Get 15% off your Eurail pass when you book before 1 Aug 2022. They were all very informative. Highlights in Vienna: Visit Schnbrunn Palace, the former summer imperial palace Ride the craziest rides at theWurstelprateramusement park Take a day trip out to the Vienna Woods and Seegrotte Hinterbrhl an underground lake in a cave. "Driving through the mountains of Switzerland on our way to the Lauterbrunnen Valley was possibly the most scenic moment of the trip. Extremely good value I believe. *Pro-tip:Find your accommodations outside of Venice. 1, 110 00 Star Msto, Czechia, Walk around the Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral, For just 4 (S$6.35), you can ride a Toboggan sled in the summer or ski down over winter at. But Paris captured my heart. The platter came with a generous mix of salad, mashed potatoes, fried chicken, a pork steak and more. Venice, Florence, and Rome, Italy's most iconic destinations, make the perfect combination for a 10-day Europe trip itinerary. Then we'll visit the Accademia Gallery, where we'll marvel at works of sculptural genius: Michelangelo's rough-hewn Prisoners and his greatest masterpiece, David. Gov. Head to your local grocers to grab lunch before heading down to theEnglischer Garten. 14 Days & 13 Nights Customizable. "In Switzerland, when we went on the gondola up the side of the mountain. We shared the Slovenska ploa platter (serves 2), an omelette and a steak for41.50 (S$65.65) altogether. 2023 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. | He kept our group well organized, always provided us with interesting historical information. Murren was so beautiful! Look out for the little treats that they bake daily as well! My family loved the mix of time with the group and our guides to get the cultural and historical context to enjoy each place, and then time to independently explore. Overall an enriching experience enhanced even more so by our guide Yorick and our bus driver Paul. The statue of David was a "Wow"! You cant leave Ljubljana without visiting this hipster town! We were stuffed at the end of the meal. The education from Tina on each country and location was excellent. We'll set you free to explore more of Florence before we return to our countryside hotel, with plenty of time to relax and freshen up before dinner together. When we hiked the mountains and were on the train looking straight up at the Eiger peak the sight was clear and perfect. Cost:8.90 (S$14.10)Opening Hours:9AM 11.30PMAddress: Platzl 9, 80331 Mnchen, Germany. And it won't be my last
I think we enjoyed the company of the group and Jody! The Rick Steves' tour company staff must be great at their jobs! Everything was so well planned out. Hard to pick just one. Get a soup and sandwich at the Bistro Sisters to begin your day! Chill at this iconic party place with beers listening to live bands, or run around exploring the pioneer of ruin pubs. We have never felt more welcome/included! Cost:Free entry. Entrance Fee:12 (S$18.90)Opening Hours: 8.30AM 7PMAddress:Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy. My tour group was amazing as well: I appreciated how everyone was so positive all the time. I truly believe the Rick Steves tour is the way to see Europe. Au revoir! Before our group meeting Karen and I went to the Chams to see the Orangiere Museum. From the grand city of Paris to the absolute beauty of the Lauterbrunnen Valley in Switzerland. Venice, Slovenia, Croatia. "The view of the Swiss Alps from our hotel balcony was breathtaking.". I'd highly recommend this trip to everyone. Also, Paris was much more than I anticipated. We suggest arriving a day or two before your tour begins to allow ample time to get over jet lag and be well-rested for the first few days of your tour. In the 21st century! Highlights of spending 2 days and 1 night in Venice: Doge's Palace and Saint Mark's Basilica in the evening to catch the sunset. The scenery was incredible, the accommodations cozy and the easy in getting around the area was awesome. "Switzerland and the beautiful mountains was definitely a wow moment.". "The family farm in the Tuscan hills and the Swiss Alps.". You can hike up here any time of the day but wed recommend getting up early to catch the sunrise at theOjstrica Lookout Point, which also gives you some time to enjoy the beautiful landscape ofLake Bledbefore tour groups arrive. "Its hard to choose. Being in the middle of the valley with mountains and water falls on both sides and going to the top and down again with the hike back down the valley, and a stop to go through the water falls inside the mountain was amazing. Each shared their passion for their cities, shared their knowledge freely I want to return to Munich because of Eric and Patrick. Better than we expected. After a long day, it was just a very relaxing evening.". Marienplatz was incredible with its old architecture. Very professionally managed. Opening Hours:Sun Mon, Wed Thurs, 10AM 8PM; Fri Sat, Tues 9AM 11PMAddress:4260 Bled, Slovenia. We especially wanted to explore the woods that inspired Beethovens works, and an amusement park many have been raving about. Our destination is the heart of Bavaria: Munich. Tonight we'll take an alleys-and-canals orientation stroll to St. Mark's Square and enjoy dinner together. I most loved the land and trails of Lauterbrunnen--gorgeous respite from the cities and perfect place for a picnic. A complete 2 week Europe itinerary covering alpine areas, quaint villages, and sophisticated cities with all the details you need for a fantastic trip. "Everything in the Lauterbrunnen Valley; opening the doors onto my balcony and seeing a waterfall, hiking to Murren, walking through the valley, seeing Tremmelbach falls. We learned so much in each of the cities we visited. Also, you can give yourself more time to enjoy the actual traveling, as road tripping and train travel (at least in Switzerland) give you the option to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, and you can take some rest and just soak in the beauty. Our bus driver, Paul, was a true professional and ate with us when he could. "Seeing the beautiful statue of David in reality;it is amazing! "Most profound for me was walking through the gates of Dachau as first group going in. I think equal are the second floor of the Sainte Chapelle Church in Paris and the first walk into the square in Venice and viewing Saint Mark's Basilica.". "Looking back I would have to say the overall trip was a "wow"! On this tour through Europe, your Rick Steves guide will surround you with the must-see sights of Rome followed by a countryside stay in Tuscany, the art and architecture of Renaissance Florence, the romantic canals of Venice, festive Munich, a hike in the majestic Swiss Alps, a hearty taste of Burgundy, the art treasures of Paris and chances to connect with Europeans like you never thought possible. Our bus driver Hilda, amazing driver and great personality!! "When we first saw the Swiss Alps,the snow capped mountains and the huge water falls. You could tell she cares a lot about her work. The planned stops were perfectly matched with free time to explore on our own. Stephanie did such a great job at making sure we saw all we could and that our time was used to the fullest. "I think Rome was the biggest surprise. Just a great time.wish we were still on the trip. They took my breath away.". But of them all, arranging the tram trip to Schilthorn was visually stunning - we felt like we were on the top of the world. For . I'll never forget that moment. Experiencing the atmosphere of Europe in general - the history, sculpture, architecture, paintings and scenery. Land marks in the cities of Paris, Munich and Rome , Octoberfest in Bavaria and the natural beauty in Switzerland and Tuscany makes it very difficult to call out just one!". 14-Day Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary: Bern - Interlaken - Milan - Venice. Pasta e Basta deserves five stars! The local guides were excellent and enriched our tour. Our bus driver-Sylvan also was experienced in all the routes to and from and also knew shortcuts along the way to bypass any traffic problems and snags. Sleep in Munich. London is a multicultural city, full of open-minded-people with different lifestyles. Very well planned trip. Great tour guides (Lisa & Colleen) and bus driver (John) The tour is well planned and any unexpected changes are quickly resolved. Our driver Jost was also professional & also personable. Day 5 - French Riviera. We're so glad we went; it gave me a new appreciation of civilization and how "young" the U.S. is. Hobbs and Attorney General Mayes condemn inducing the labor of pregnant prisoners against their will after The Republic published allegations. In addition to having the best guide, we also had fabulous city guides (especially Birgitte in Munich). Marijan Kriskovic our guide was amazing! A Brief Overview of this Italy Itinerary 14 Days. This destination is known as the fashion capital. The places we stayed were charming and the people wonderful! Then we'll continue on our scenic drive past pristine mountains and sparkling lakes as we climb high into the heart of the Swiss Alps to our destination the magnificent Berner Oberland, flanked by towering, waterfall-laced cliffs and crowned by a trio of Switzerland's most formidable peaks: the Eiger, Mnch, and Jungfrau. The heat and crowds definitely influenced how the tour and our guide presented certain sites. Tremendous value! "Wow moment for me was Lauterbrunnen and hiking with our group.". I think it was a lot to cram into 14 days, but I knew that going in. I had never been to any of these countries before so it provided a wonderful overview of travel in Europe. "Staying at the agritourismo villa in Tuscany. This is an urban-focused itinerary spending most nights in big cities . I will never forget her. DAY: Day trip to NERJA BEACH/GIBRALTAR. She also seemed to have a keen grasp of the socio-political climate of the times. I hope to revisit these regions in the future.". I loved this tour. Thanks for helping us plan and carry out a trip of a lifetime!! The group of people was very nice as well. This was my first Rick Steves tour and it was an incredible journey! We had a celebration of 4 birthdays, for which Marijan lined up a singer/DJ, and we had a night to remember. You can skip a few cities to fit travel Europe plan to a week trip. This route traverses four of Central Europe's great capitals: Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna and Ljubljana. Day 3: Drove to/explored Lisbon, Portugal. From the first day until the last, it was just unbelievable. Ragen was a key to this travel success. The crumbly and flaky puff pasty on top provided the perfect textural contrast with the fluffy cream cake below. ", It was great, our tour guide Stephanie was caring, very helpful, made us feel very comfortable. Head down early to visit this Open Kitchen Market that only happens on Fridays. Your evening is free for exploration and dinner on your own in this elegant capital. 3. Overall, this was an excellent tour. Opening Hours:7AM 11PM; Closed on SundaysAddress:Stand 29-31, Karmelitermarkt, 1020 Wien, Austria. The walking was not too extreme for my family. "The Swiss Alps were stunning and we were happy we got to go up in the cable cars to the top and it was a clear day.". "Many wow moments, particularly the beauty of the Swiss Alps. We'll drive to Florence this morning and hit the ground walking with a Renaissance tour of the city's historic center learning how Brunelleschi's cathedral dome and Ghiberti's Baptistery doors helped define this world-changing era. I can see us going back there to enjoy the country's beauty. We also enjoyed unexpected side trips/treats-Swiss chocolate! No guarantee that we would have good tour guides, good restaurants, good transit, and visit the best of each country. I enjoyed seeing so many different places- each so individulal and experiencing history from before Christ, through the Romans, the medievel times, the renassiance, World War II to the present day. We are relatively experienced travelers looking for a tour that took the work off our plates, provided independence, and also additional learning and connecting time with our family and others. I wowed at almost all the places we went & things we saw. Transport Coach, Ferry & Flight. Our Paris guide was wonderful as well (name spelling?? We had a fun group of people with very few problems. "I wanted more time in Lauterbrunnen and Switzerland in general. Stephanie was great.
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