Tour Details - European Highlights 2012

See the White Cliffs on your approach to Dover, where you board a ferry to Calais. Travel north through Belgium to Amsterdam − one of Europe's friendliest cities. View the famous Mint Tower and Dam Square. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception in Amsterdam this evening on a scenic canal cruise with dinner and Welcome Drinks.(Welcome Reception)

Travel via Arnhem to the Rhine Valley. Relax as you cruise along the River Rhine past terraced vineyards and medieval castles to St Goar. Pass the famous Lorelei Rock, named after a mermaid who lured fishermen to their deaths with her mesmerising song. In Heidelberg, view the red sandstone castle, one of the most important architectural structures north of the Alps, which towers above Germany’s oldest university town before continuing to Mannheim and your hotel.(Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)

Drive into the enchanting Black Forest and stop for a cuckoo clock making demonstration. Visit the dramatic Rhine Falls at Schaffhausen, which is the largest waterfall in Europe. Later arrive in Switzerland with its alpine scenery and enjoy magnificent views across Lake Lucerne.(Buffet Breakfast)

Walk across the 14th century Chapel Bridge on your morning orientation. Visit the solemn Lion Monument, commemorating the massacre of Swiss Guards in 1792. Spend the afternoon shopping in the old town for Swiss chocolates. Consider an excursion up a local mountain for panoramic views, or enjoy the fresh Alpine air by taking a leisurely walk beside the beautiful lake.(Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)

See the changing landscape as you travel into France, through Alsace and across the Maginot Line. Continue through the Burgundy countryside − one of the country’s main wine producing regions, famous for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grape varieties. This evening you may decide to take an optional to see a famous Parisian Cabaret.(Buffet Breakfast)

Your expert Local Guide shows you the sights, including views of Notre Dame Cathedral, the Champs Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe and the magnificent Opera House, designed by Charles Garnier and opened in 1875. Ascend to the second level of the Eiffel Tower by elevator and view the city in all its glory. Spend the afternoon as you wish. Perhaps take an excursion to visit the Palace of Versailles. Celebrate in the evening with your fellow travellers at a Farewell Dinner in a local restaurant.(Buffet Breakfast / Farewell Dinner)

Say ‘au revoir’ as you leave Paris, crossing the battlefields of the Somme en route to Calais. Board the ferry bound for Dover and then travel onwards to London where your memorable holiday ends.(Buffet Breakfast)