Modern & Beautiful
This European itinerary plots a course through all the essential cities of Europe, from Amsterdam to Rome via Paris, Geneva and Venice. Start your vacation in the Dutch capital and then take a high-speed train through to Paris. From here, continue through France to Geneva before riding the rails through the breath-taking scenery of the Alps to the historic Italian cities of Venice and Rome.
Make your way to the city of Amsterdam. On arrival Check-in at your hotel for a two-night stay. Then use your city sightseeing hop on hop-off tour to explore at your leisure. the city boasts a wide range of museums on subjects as diverse as vodka and culture in the Tropics! Visit the Anne Frank House for an insight into the life of the young girl behind the famous diary or see the world's largest collection of Van Gogh paintings and drawings at the Van Gogh Museum. (Overnight in Amsterdam).
Spend a full day exploring the Dutch capital today. Visit the Bloemenmarkt - the world's only floating flower market - and discover the colorful sights and wonderful smells of the city's southern canal belt. If the weather is fine, stroll through the vast Vondelpark - the perfect spot for people watching! Later, why not take an evening cruise through Amsterdam's famous canals or enjoy a meal in the lively Leidseplein, which is also home to the city's principal theater. (Overnight in Amsterdam).
After breakfast this morning, take a high speed Thalys train from Amsterdam's central station to Paris Gare du Nord. On arrival, check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. Paris is the world's most visited city and it's easy to see why. From the bohemian hilltop district of Montmartre, to the UNESCO World Heritage listed banks of the Seine, this city is vibrant, chic and endlessly photogenic. Browse the upmarket stores along the Champs-Élysées and the Rue du Rivoli, take in the views from the landmark Sacre Coeur Basilica or enjoy a cruise by bateau mouche along the river. (Overnight in Paris)
Spend a morning enjoying the delights of Paris. Indulge your arty side with a visit to the Mona Lisa at the world-famous Louvre museum, and don't miss a visit to the Musee d'Orsay gallery with its fantastic collection of impressionist masterpieces. For an iconic experience, ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Do not have lunch because this afternoon you have your secret food tour you will have the opportunity to experience the passion and enjoy quality French food and wine, finding out why eating and drinking is not just a pastime but a "way of life" in France. Come the evening, maybe see a fantastic show at the Moulin Rouge! (Overnight in Paris)
Head from Paris to Geneva aboard a high-speed train today. the train leaves from the wonderful Gare de Lyon, which is also home to the famous 'Train Bleu' restaurant - the perfect place to indulge in unbeatable fine dining and opulent surroundings while you wait for your train. On arrival in Geneva, check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. Make the most of your time in Geneva - spend the evening enjoying a tasty meal at a local lakeside restaurant or take a relaxing boat trip out on the lake and admire the city's cosmopolitan feel and the stunning backdrop of the Alps and the Jura mountains. (Overnight in Geneva)
After breakfast this morning, Get acquainted with the spectacular sights of Geneva on your city tour. Cruise the city in an air-conditioned coach and listen to captivating commentary from your knowledgeable guide as you see top city attractions. Marvel at the distinctive beauty of Jet d'Eau; the world's highest fountain, gaze at the shimmering surface of Lake Geneva; and disembark for a leisurely walking tour around Geneva's charming Old Town. Climb aboard the city's quaint mini-train to discover landmarks like St Pierre Cathedral and the Palace of Nations. (Overnight in Geneva)
Enjoy breakfast in the hotel and then head to the station for your train through the famous Simplon Pass. This scenic journey runs along Lake Leman and passes scenic Swiss vineyards, with stunning views of the Alps in the background. the Simplon Pass boasts some of the most stunning views of the Alps in the entire region. Travel further south after crossing the border into Italy with a change in Milan, before arriving in Venice. On arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy a two-night stay. (Overnight in Venice)
Spend a full day discovering the all the sights of Venice. Starting with one of the most truly Venetian moments a 30-minute gondola ride. See the beauty of this unique city from the perspective of its most iconic symbol as you glide through the canals in a gondola. See the hidden places only accessible by gondola, as you get a totally different vantage point than with a walking tour. Later lose yourself in the little narrow streets and campos. Don't miss the opulent St. Mark's Basilica or the historic Doge's Palace. For spectacular views, it's worth climbing up the winding steps to the top of the Campanile (Bell Tower) to see the city spread out below you. Alternatively, take a boat out to the colorful islands of Murano and Burano. (Overnight in Venice)
Leave Venice this morning for your last rail journey south to Rome. On arrival, check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. Explore the Eternal City at your own pace. From the Colosseum to the Spanish Steps, there's a famous landmark around every corner! Come the evening, be sure to visit the luminous Trevi Fountain, exquisitely designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi. Treat yourself to a gelato from one of the surrounding cafes and be sure to throw a coin over your shoulder to ensure your return to Rome one day! (Overnight in Rome)
Spend today going back in time to the days of ancient Rome on your walking tour of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. With a knowledgeable guide, avoid the entrance queue at the Colosseum with skip-the-line admission, and go inside to explore the amphitheatre and hear stories about gladiators and Roman emperors. Then head to Palatine Hill for a view of Circus Maximus, and see the ruins of the Roman Forum, then why not enjoy an Italian gelato in the breath-taking Piazza Navona? (Overnight in Rome)
After breakfast this morning, check out of your hotel and continue with your travels. If you wish to extend your vacation, perhaps with an additional day in a different city, one of our Rail Specialists will be happy to assist you with the details