(A UNIT OF NOVA GROUP OF COMPANIES)
Royal European-22 Days-Germany,Spain,Scotland,United KIngdom
Itinerary-22 Days
Day 1
Arrive Frankfurt
Upon arrival in Frankfurt, you will be transferred to the hotel.
Start your day with a sightseeing tour of Frankfurt by double-decker bus, showing you the many facets of the city including its mix of Baroque and modern architecture, lively plazas and impressive skyscrapers. Listen to your audio guide as you cruise through the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment) and the sleek European banking center, marked by tall skyscrapers that characterize the city's imposing skyline. See the European Central Bank, the Stock Exchange, the Old Opera House and Goethe House, the former home of 18th-century literary genius Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe. Admire the Romer town hall, constructed in the 15th century and once the site of celebrations during the elections and coronations of emperors. Continue to St Paul's Church, Frankfurt Cathedral (Gotischer Kirchturm) and Hauptwache, a famous Baroque plaza surrounded by modern buildings and Rest of the day at Leisure.
Overnight in Frankfurt.
Day 2
Frankfurt - Black Forest and Baden-Baden Day Trip
This full-day tour begins in Frankfurt with a 2-hour drive south to Baden-Baden, a sophisticated spa town in southwestern Germany’s Black Forest. Explore the town on a walking tour of its well-groomed parks and thermal bath houses. Visit the town's top attraction, Kurhaus of Baden-Baden, for a tour of the spa resort, casino and conference complex.Visit the sophisticated spa town of Baden-Baden in Germany’s Black Forest on this guided, full-day sightseeing adventure from Frankfurt. Explore the town’s elegant tree-lined avenues, see the grand buildings and visit the chic boutiques alongside the legendary thermal bath houses. See some of the popular local attractions, like Kurhaus of Baden-Baden. Take a tour of this spa resort, casino and conference complex, then enjoy a relaxing drive to the Mummelsee, a popular lake in the Black Forest near Seebach. It’s one of the oldest and most beautiful gambling houses in all of Europe. Then venture deeper into the Black Forest to visit the Mummelsee, a popular tourist lake in nearby Seebach. This region’s beautiful natural setting inspired the Brothers Grimm fairy tales and it’s famous for its production of traditional German cuckoo clocks, so consider buying an authentic souvenir at one of the local shops before the return journey to Frankfurt.
Overnight in Frankfurt. (B)
Day 3
Frankfurt - Rhine Valley Day Trip
A day trip to the lovely German countryside! You'll explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed part of the Rhine Valley, from Rudesheim to Sankt Goarshausen. Travel by air-conditioned coach past romantic villages, pretty vineyards and medieval castles all spread across the massive valley, which stretches 766 miles (1,232 km) from Switzerland to the North Sea. Stop at a riverside restaurant for lunch (included) before continuing to Sankt Goarshausen, where you'll board a steamer boat for a relaxing Rhine River cruise. Pass iconic Loreley Rock along the way. Back at the harbor, disembark and head to a wine shop for a wine-tasting session. Sample local wines and learn about local winemaking, and then take time to explore the town's wine bars and shops at your leisure. On the way back to Frankfurt, stop in Rudesheim to briefly see the Drosselgasse, a 15th-century lane in Old Town. This narrow, cobblestone pedestrian street is brimming with lively restaurants, music venues, wine taverns and gardens. You'll arrive back in Frankfurt around 7pm.
Overnight in Frankfurt. (B)
Day 4
Frankfurt - Cologne Day Trip
Visit the beautiful city of Cologne on this guided, full-day sightseeing tour from Frankfurt. Enjoy a scenic, 2-hour drive north to Cologne, then hop on a double-decker bus to see many of this 2,000-year-old city’s top attractions. Pass by the Romanesque Catholic Great St. Martin Church, bustling Roncalliplatz, the historic Alter Markt square, Cologne City Hall and much more. Then visit the Cologne Cathedral, Germany’s most-visited site, for a guided tour. Upon arrival in Cologne, hop on a double-decker bus for a sightseeing tour of the city. Continue on to Cologne’s Old Town to see the busy breweries, pubs and restaurants and admire the Renaissance architecture and rustic, narrow alleyways lined with traditional old houses. Visit the bustling squares of Roncalliplatz, Alter Markt and Heumarkt. See Cologne City Hall, famous for its loggia, which is often used as an example of one of the most typical buildings of the Renaissance era. Other highlights include the Romanesque Catholic Great St. Martin Church and the Romano-Germanic Museum, an archaeological museum with a large collection of Roman artifacts. After the bus tour, experience a guided tour of a landmark Gothic masterpiece, the incredible Cologne Cathedral, Germany’s most-visited site and one of its most striking Gothic monuments. This Roman Catholic cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Cologne and an UNESCO World Heritage Center. After exploring this magnificent place of worship, use some free time to explore the city's historic old town, eat lunch and peruse the local shops. Then begin the return trip to Frankfurt, with a brief stop in the medieval old town of Limburg
Overnight in Frankfurt with Farewell Diner. (B)
Day 5
Frankfurt - Madrid (2.5 hrs)
Travel by flight to Madrid. On arrival, check into the hotel. Later in the evening, you can take the Illumination Tour of Madrid and Rest of the day at Leisure.
Overnight in Madrid (B)
Day 6
Madrid
Madrid City Sightseeing Tour and start your 3-hour morning coach tour. Since its foundation, Madrid has had a succession of different rulers, with each one stamping his or her mark on the city. The different styles of architecture amassed throughout the ages are incredible to behold; you'll see influences from surrounding countries, as well as the different art eras that are prevalent in so much European architecture. Start with a look at the city’s Moorish Quarter to learn about Madrid’s Arabic (Moorish) roots, seeing sights like the Arabic fortress, and then move on to an area known as Los Austrias or Habsburg’s Madrid, in reference to the Habsburg Dynasty who once ruled. Travel along Calle Mayor, seeing Plaza Mayor and Plaza de la Villa -- two of the town’s main squares – and then continue to a neighborhood lavished with Bourbon treasures to see A-list attractions such as Madrid Royal Palace. Hear tales of the eccentric kings and dignitaries of the different eras, and then visit some of the city’s more modern sites. Travel down Gran Via to see the hustle and bustle of Plaza de España, and then see the streets of Salamanca – Madrid’s trendiest neighborhood where bars spill onto the streets. Stop for a look at Las Ventas Bullring and Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
Spend two hours at leisure before your afternoon Prado Museum tour starts. Skip the Line: Prado Museum Tour (1.5 hours) Meet your guide near the Prado and head straight inside with your priority-entrance ticket. As Spain’s National Art Museum, the Prado’s size and complexity means a visit to it can be overwhelming, so let your guide introduce you to its highlights on your 1.5-hour tour. Learn about the museum’s history as you walk around admiring the artwork. Having started out as the idea of King Charles III in the late 18th century, the original Neo-Classical building soon outgrew itself, and so two further annexes were added to hold the ever-growing collection of art. Explore the works in chronological order, starting with the Bosch exhibition to see masterpieces like The Garden of Earthly Delights, and then continue through to rooms devoted to Greco – a much-celebrated Spanish Renaissance painter, sculptor and architect. See his oil canvas painting The Annunciation, and then visit one of the most influential pieces of artwork in Western history – Velazquez’s Las Meninas. Finish with a look at Goya’s incredible The Family of Carlos IV. Your tour finishes inside the museum, and you can continue exploring independently if you wish.
Overnight in Madrid. (B)
Day 7
Madrid - Segovia and Avila Guided Day Tour
Avila is one of the oldest cities in Spain, with its greatly preserved walls from the eleventh century. These walls, around the ancient city, give Avila the appearance of a castle town, and make it one of the greatest examples of a fortified medieval city. In Avila, there are numerous Romanesque churches, Gothic palaces, and the Cathedral of Avila, from the twelfth century also fortified. The city is the birthplace of St. Teresa, representative of the Spanish Catholic mysticism. You will visit the exterior of the Cathedral, the Romanesque Basilica of San Vicente, Plaza Mayor, and go along the Teresian route, through the San Juan Bautista Church, San Juan de la Cruz Square, and to the Convent and House of Santa Teresa. From Avila, you will continue on to Segovia, a town that is very rich in historical monuments, highlighting the majestic Roman aqueduct from the time of Augustus. One of the best preserved ancient monuments left on the Iberian Peninsula. You will see the Gothic Cathedral, which was the last built in Spain of this style, and the Alcazar of the XII century, ancient fortified residence of the kings of Castile. The Segovia Alcazar, is a spectacular building that dominates the Castilian landscape. This building, started as an Arab fort, which itself was built on Roman ruins, that once were used, also as fortifications. Both towns, Avila and Segovia, are World Heritage Cities.
Overnight in Madrid. (B).
Day 8
Madrid - Spanish Wine Tour
Visit 3 wineries and taste more than 10 wines in Madrid Wine Region (D.O Vinos de Madrid). Escape the metropolitan mayhem of Madrid in favor of the verdant vineyards of Vinos de Madrid on a full-day Spanish wine tour. Accompanied by an accomplished guide, explore the beautiful wine-making region and learn about complex production processes in atmospheric wine cellars, known as bodegas. Sample signature wines grown in the area and gain fascinating insight into the culinary heritage of Spain’s capital city on this enriching epicurean tour.
Overnight in Madrid. (B)
Day 9
Madrid - Aranjuez Royal Palace Tour
Enjoy the scenic 28-mile (46-km) journey south to the royal city of Aranjuez. Get acquainted with the rich history of Aranjuez as your guide sets the historical scene of the city and explains its connections with royalty. On arrival, head to the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) to see one of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscape’s most impressive monuments; home to Spanish kings since the early 19th century, the opulent decoration and ornate chambers of the palace are sure to impress. Admire the Throne Room of Elizabeth II, the Island, the Parterre and the Prince’s Gardens as you tour the residence. Absorb the botanical beauty of the gardens said to have inspired Spanish composer, Joaquin Rodrigo, and then walk to the Museum of Royal Felucca to see exhibitions that speak eloquently of the city’s history. See boats used by Philip V and Elizabeth II to cruise the Tagus rivers and then return to your vehicle for the comfortable journey back to Madrid, where the tour concludes.
Overnight in Madrid with Farewell Diner. (B)
Day 10
Madrid - Barcelona (1.5 hrs)
Today take a train to Barcelona. Upon arrival,transfer to the hotel and check in. City Tour Including Sagrada Familia in afternoon.
Depart from a centrally-located pickup point in Barcelona and relax during the scenic drive the Monjuïc Hill, the renowned site of the 1992 Olympic Games. Capture panoramic views of the city from the hill’s summit and enjoy a brief interlude at the Catalunya National Art Museum. Admire the modernist structures of Plaça Espanya and then marvel at two of Antoni Gaudi’s most impressive architectural creations as you travel down Passeig de Gracia towards La Pedrera and Casa Batlló. Arrive at La Sagrada Familia and sail past the long lines at the entrance hall with your priority access pass. Once inside, enjoy some leisurely free time to explore the interior and then travel to Barcelona’s atmospheric Gothic Quarter to stroll amid buildings that are testament to the Catalonian capital's medieval heritage. Continue to travel back in time as you visit the Jewish Quarter and see a 2,000-year-old Roman temple beside the grand Cathedral. Recharge with lunch in the Born district (own expense) and then bid your guide and group farewell after admiring the impressive façade of Santa Maria del Mar church. Enhance your experience of Barcelona by upgrading to a full-day tour. Marvel at Park Güell, a sculpted city garden full of bizarre Gaudi creations, and then sail past long lines outside of La Pedrera, one of Gaudi’s most iconic buildings. Spend an hour touring the interior of the building and then bid farewell to your guide at this central location.
Overnight in Barcelona. (B)
Day 11
Barcelona
Today visit the Swarovski Crystal World in Wattens. Explore the fantastic and sparkling world of Swarovski. Inside the Giant, a whole crystal world awaits you: the Chambers of Wonders containing the Planet of Crystals, the Crystal Dome, the Crystal Theatre, the Ice passage and the Floating Poem.
Overnight in Barcelona. (B)
Day 12
Barcelona - Girona and Costa Brava Guided Day Tour
From Barcelona, head to the historic town of Girona where the remains of its Roman and medieval past coexist with the present, offering an image full of contrasts. Get lost in its maze of narrow streets and get ready to travel through time in the Jewish neighborhood best preserved in Europe. Admire the Cathedral with the widest Gothic nave in the world or be surprised by the colorful spectacle of the houses along the Onyar River, which divides the city in two. Whether from the various bridges across the river or from the top of its medieval walls, Girona always treats you to a different and exciting panorama. Before going to Costa Brava, stop to take in the nature at the beautiful Pals. This ancient medieval village, that once was a fortress, is full of idyllic cobbled streets and plazas. Its towers and viewpoints will show you the best views of the Mediterranean Sea, enraged by the Tramontana wind and will allow you to see the fields, Empordà plains that extend into the horizon. Next, see the green of the mountains, the sheer relief of the coast and small villages of whitewashed houses will offer you the most breathtaking pictures of the Catalan coast. Stop in Calella de Palafrugell, a small traditional fishing village that still retains all the charm of yesteryear, before exploring the surrounding area, tasting its cuisine and seafood tradition. In the vicinity of Calella you will have the opportunity to discover the most pristine corners of the region thanks to the Caminos de Ronda, an ancient pathway used by fishermen, watchmen and smugglers, that allow you to explore this virgin coastal scenery to your liking. From the most popular beaches in the area until the most inaccessible coves and cliffs, you can always take a dip in crystal clear water surrounded by unspoiled nature.
Overnight in Barcelona with Farewell Diner. (B)
Day 13
Barcelona - Edinburgh(2.5 hrs)
Today take flight from Barcelona to Edinburgh.Transfer to from airport to hotel in Edinburgh.In Afternoon take City Tour of Edinburgh.Edinburgh has been the Capital of Scotland since the 15th Century and stands proudly on seven hills, creating the dramatic skyline of this lively cosmopolitan city. Compare Edinburgh’s Old Town, where families lived in cramped conditions and rubbish was thrown out of the windows, to the elegant Georgian New Town with its three main streets and a square at either end. Join this and hear about the hangings that took place in the Grassmarket as you marvel at the impenetrable Castle Rock above you and hear about the attempts to capture Edinburgh Castle. See the Royal Mile which joins Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood House. This tour will highlight all the things to do and see in Edinburgh as you tour through the city streets. Learn about body-snatchers, witch hunters, firebrand priests and philosophers all living on the side of a dead volcano. During your tour you will cover all the main sights of the Old & New City of Edinburgh. Starting on the famous Royal Mile, your guide Alan will lead you through the windy streets and up the hills to sites of executions, cloned sheep and the birthplace of Harry Potter. Highlights include: New Town, Old Town, Grassmarket, Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, Palace of Holyrood House, Calton Hill, Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral, The Royal Mile, Mercat Cross, Greyfriars Bobby, Scott Monument, Site of Witch Burnings, Covenanters’ Prison and The Mound.
Overnight in Edinburgh. (B)
Day 14
Edinburgh - Kingsbarns Distillery and St Andrews Tour Including Walk on the Old Course from Port of Rosyth
Embark on this exciting distillery and St. Andrews tour with a pick up from your cruise ship, and enjoy a tasting of fine local spirits at the Kingsbarns Distillery and a walk of the hallowed fairways on the Old Course at St. Andrews. You will also have some free time in St Andrews to explore.Travel first to Kingsbarns Distillery for a private tour and tasting of these fine local spirits. for those who don't drink there will be time to enjoy a coffee in the distilleries coffee shop and take in the lovely view out over the North Sea. We will arrive in to St Andrews at a touch after 12 noon, where you will have free time to visit the Cathedral ruins, maybe the Castle ruins, and have lunch in one of the many cafes or pubs. You may fancy popping in to the Old Cheese Shop, or the Chocolate Shop which are both just across the road from the coach pick up point At 2pm there will be a one hour walking tour on the old course for those eager to walk the hollowed fairways. This will take in a few holes, with time to take that all important photo on the Swilcan Bridge. The golf shops are also nearby, as is the British Golf Museum
Overnight in Edinburgh with Farewell Diner. (B)
Day 15
Edinburgh - Aberdeen (2 hrs)
Today you will take train from to go to Aberdeen.Upon Arrival transfer to Hotel .In afternoon you would go for a city tour. City Tour takes you on a voyage of discovery of Aberdeen.Traveling in a small grouped tour around the “Silver City Beside the Sea”. Hear about Aberdeen’s History see Aberdeen’s fine Granite buildings. Aberdeen Visitor Information Centre.Old Aberdeen seeing Kings College part of Aberdeen University.
A visit to St.Machar Cathedral.Travel past Aberdeen football Club.
See the golden sands of Aberdeen Beach (if the tide is out).Stop and visit of Footdee Village locally known as “Fittie” a former fishing village.
Travel around Aberdeen harbour then through Torry to Girdleness Lighthouse then a stop at the Torry Battery for a fine view over Aberdeen harbour and city.We then head to Duthie Park time here for a cup o tea or a visit to the Aberdeen Winter Gardens.West end of Aberdeen seeing the fine Granite houses.
Overnight in Aberdeen . (B)
Day 16
Aberdeen - Speyside Private Whisky Tour
It takes us up to the world renowned Speyside Whisky region of Scotland. Home to whiskies recognised all around the globe such as Macallan, Glenlivet and Glenfiddich.We depart from the city of Aberdeen and trail to Speyside via the rugged and mountainous scenic Lecht route. We have timed our tour to allow for a couple of photo stops on this memorable road before arriving at our first stop of the day - Glenlivet Distillery.
At the distillery the expert guide will take you on a tour and reveal the ancient methods used to produce the Water of Life. No tour of a distillery would be complete without a Wee Dram and the Glenlivet is no exception to this rule!!We now head off to a unique place which provides a vital link in our whisky making chain, the Speyside Cooperage. To be legally classed as whisky our blends and malts need to mature in barrels for a minimum of 3 years.Our final visit of the day is a tour round the world famous Glenfiddich distillery. Situated in Dufftown, the capital of the whisky industry. Rome sits on 7 hills, Dufftown sits on 7 stills and Glenfiddich is the jewel in the crown! The tour once again reveals the secrets of the making and ends with a wonderful opportunity to sample a flight of 4 whiskies.After our tour we depart Speyside and return to Aberdeen via the A96.We can visit a maximum of 3 distilleries in one day. In Speyside there is a variety to select from; Glenfiddich, Aberlour, Cardhu, The Glenlivet, Glen Grant, Glenfarclas, Glen Moray and The Macallan.
Overnight in Aberdeen with Farewell Diner.(B)
Day 17
Aberdeen - London (6 hrs)
Today you take the train to Kings Cross,London from where you would be transferred to the Hotel.Rest of the Day at Leisure.
Overnight in London.(B)
Day 17
London
Enjoy a Hop-On Hop-Off tour of London. Later, visit the famous wax museum ‘Madame Tussauds’ and world’s largest observatory wheel ‘The London Eye’. In the evening, enjoy one of the Broadway musicals like Warhorse or Shakespeare in Love. (optional)
Overnight in London. (B)
Day 18
London
After Brealfast proceed for a ciy tour.See the iconic Big Ben and Houses of Parliament in Parliament Square, and snap pictures of Westminster Abbey where Prince William and Kate Middleton were married in a grand ceremony in April 2011. See the handsome government buildings along Whitehall and pass Downing Street, the London base of the British Prime Minister. Then, gaze up at Nelson’s Column in buzzing Trafalgar Square, and drive to Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Walk to the palace gates to watch the Changing of the Guard. Look on in delight as the soldiers of the Queen’s Foot Guard, clothed in red tunics and bearskin hats, exchange duties to the regal music of a military band, and learn about this centuries-old ceremony from your guide. Next, continue by coach to a cozy London pub in Trafalgar Square. Sit down to a tasty lunch (own expense) and then pick up your tour again in the City of London. Located east of the West End, and famous for its financial institutions, this history-steeped district is home to the Bank of England and St Paul’s Cathedral. Hop out for fast-track entry and a guided tour of St Paul's Cathedral. Afterward, pay a visit to the Tower of London, the medieval prison-fortress that stands on the north banks of the Thames River. Head inside to explore independently, and learn about the tower’s blood-soaked history. Founded in the 1080s by William the Conqueror, this imposing complex has served as a palace, armoury, prison and execution site, and is known for its ravens and colorful Beefeater guides. After City Tour ends proceed for sightseeing cruise on the River Thames, from the Tower of London to Westminster Pier with a Dinner cruise
Overnight in London.(B)
Day 19
London - Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Oxford Custom Day Trip
See three of England’s architectural treasures on a full-day trip to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Oxford from London. First, check out Windsor Castle, second home to the Queen of England, and opt to upgrade with a guided tour of the castle’s opulent interior. Next, head to Stonehenge to uncover the mystery behind this UNESCO-listed site, and then explore the canals of Oxford on a complimentary walking tour of the city. Upgrade to include entrance fees, or enjoy the flexibility of deciding on the day which attractions you'd like to visit.On arrival, show your pre-booked ticket or pay your entrance fee (depending on the option selected) and step inside to see the opulent chambers shrouded in history. Listen to audio commentary and catch a glimpse of the Changing of the Guard ceremony if your visit coincides with the daily performance. Alternatively, take some free time to explore the charming streets of Windsor. Browse the shops for souvenirs or enjoy a refreshing cup of English tea in a local cafe. Return to the coach after approximately two hours and soak up more scenery on the drive to the UNESCO-listed Stonehenge. Explore the ring of stones protruding from Salisbury Plain and opt to purchase an entrance ticket for an audio-guided tour of the landmark. Choose to view Stonehenge from outside if you wish, capturing photographs of the mystifying monument from a variety of vantage points. Continue your journey to Oxford, a beautiful city home to Britain’s oldest and most prestigious university. Follow your guide on a walking tour around the Old Town and hear of the city’s history. Conclude your tour with a relaxing drive back to your original departure point.
Overnight in London .(B)
Day 20
London
Day at Leisure.If you like see the city on your own and Shopping.
Overnight in London.(B)
Day 21
London - Cambridge Day Trip
Upon arrival you will be given a guided sightseeing tour by your tour manager who will be able to provide you with loads of information and facts about the University City. You will also be given entrance into the Tower of Saint Mary the Great. The tower provides the best panoramic view over the city skyline offering views of the King’s College to the south, Senate House to the east as well as the busy Cambridge Market. The remainder of the day is left to you to explore. With plenty of things for you to do in Cambridge, we are sure your day will be packed full of exciting activities! Why not visit the popular art and antiquities museum Fitzwilliam Museum (entrance is free) or perhaps visit one of the world's oldest universities and leading academic centers, The University of Cambridge. The university’s reputation for outstanding academic achievement is known world-wide and all of the College chapels are open to the public at select times, and most of the Colleges are also open for visits (a small fee may be charged for visitors and access may be limited during term time). You may also be keen to visit the University’s Botanic where you can discover plants from all over the world in 40 acres of beautiful gardens and glasshouses (admission not included). After a fun day discovering all that Cambridge has to offer your coach will depart from Cambridge at roughly 4pm (your Tour Manager will inform you of when you need to be back at the coach) and head back to central London with the approximate arrival time of 6pm.
Overnight in London with Farewell Diner .(B)
Day 22
London
Depart from the hotel to the airport for the flight back home.