European Highlights Itinerary

Descend upon the leafy, liberal streets of Amsterdam – a city that likes to zig while other places zag – and the perfect launching pad for this highlights of Europe adventure. If here early, why not see wondrous works in the Van Gogh Museum, take a guided canal tour, visit Anne Frank’s hideaway or join in the national pastime of cafe cruisin’.

Travel through Belgium and the northern reaches of France to Paris. Ponder the secrets of Aphrodite and Mona Lisa in the Louvre, gaze at the gargoyles atop Notre Dame Cathedral or relax in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower.

Find a private beach to lie on, trawl through the flower and evening markets on Cours Saleya or visit Grasse, the perfume capital of France.

Be romanced by the timeless cityscape of Florence, arguably one of the most significant cultural centres in Italy. Visit the remarkable Uffizi Gallery, Santa Croce Church, Galleria dell'Accademia or Pitti Palace. Then, drool over cheese wheels in a lively mercato, meet bow-tied waiters in the Piazza della Signoria or rub the nose of the Fontana del Porcellino, or ‘Piggy Fountain’, for luck.

Join well-dressed crowds on the sidewalks of rambunctious Rome. Visit the former papal fortress of Castel Sant'Angelo, admire the Arch of Constantine, the Colosseum or the Forum, or feast on pasta in a trattoria. In the evening, perhaps saunter through fairy light covered piazzas, a melting cup of gelato in hand.

Experience this iconic, alluring city that has inspired poets and painters for centuries. Dodge pigeons in Piazza San Marco, get wonderfully lost amid a muddle of side streets, bridges and canals, or peruse the opulent Museo del Settecento Veneziano.

Travel into Austria by train. Be mesmerised by the alpine backdrop of Innsbruck, a vibrant city that mixes history and modernity with relative ease. Dabble in thrill-seeking outdoor activities or roam through a selection of modern galleries.

Uncover a heady mix of sophistication and culture in Munich. In free time, see dazzling crown jewels at the Residenz or check out the age-old city gates. Then, perhaps enjoy some revelry in a rowdy beer hall or a sleek bar.

Skip northeast to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. While here, visit Prague Castle and enjoy a day trip to Kutna Hora, once one medieval Bohemia’s most affluent towns.

Wind up the tour in Berlin, a city brimming with post-war attractions, lush parks and a dynamic arts scene.