Cycle the Tuscan countryside, Walk the fabled Cinque Terre, Take in the crisp mountain air of the Swiss Alps, Savour the gastronomic delights of Dijon, Be swept off your feet by the romance of Paris
Put your finger on the pulse of Europe's beating heart on this overland journey through Italy, Switzerland and France. From historical and natural wonders, through to high fashion and traditional folklore, be captivated by the spells cast by time and nature as you travel through the centuries, over fascinating terrain.
Physical Rating: 2 Culture Shock Rating: 2 Accommodation: Basic hotels and guesthouses (13 nts), apartments (4 nts), basic wooden cabins (3 nts). Transportation: Train, ferry, local bus, metro, bicycle, walking Trip Style: Intrepid Original Group Size: Maximum of 12 travellers per group Departure: Departure is guaranteed Budget: Allow EUR €735 for meals not included.
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The Eternal City is a treasure trove of monuments including the Colosseum, the Victor Emmanuel Monument and the Pantheon. Make sure to leave enough time to see the gilded tombs of St Peter's Basilica and to crane your neck for a view of Michelangelo's vivid Sistine Chapel. Be sure to visit the Trevi Fountain.
Days 2-5
Lucca, Pisa and Florence
Travel by train to medieval Lucca to begin an exploration of Tuscany's many contrasts - from rolling hills and vineyards to Romanesque cities with vibrant cafe cultures. Enjoy a cycling trip alongside the scenic Serchio River. Then marvel at the sights of nearby Florence and the head-tilting Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Days 6-7
Cinque Terre
Weave through the pretty villages of the Cinque Terre, taking the stunning coastal path above the sea. Then cool off with a dip in the blue waters below.
Days 8-9
Milan and Stresa
After a short stopover in fashionable Milan, say ciao to Stresa, launch pad to the beautiful Borromeo Isles and their Lombard-Baroque villas. Why not take a cable car up to the top of Mount Mottarone for wonderful views of the Swiss Alps.
Pique your curiosity with a walk through the historic streets of Lucerne. There is time to cruise the placid Lake Lucerne or ride on a cog wheel railway up to Mount Pilatus. For a taste of local culture, catch a Swiss folklore show and yodel the night away.
Days 12-14
Lauterbrunnen
Marvel at the magnificent Trummelbach Falls and take in the crisp alpine air. Be sure to indulge in traditional Swiss treats such as fondue and apfelstreudel.
Renowned for its fine wines, boeuf bourguignon and mustard, Dijon is also home to the Ducal Palace, which houses the art collection of the Dukes of Burgundy. A day trip to Beaune is a tempting introduction to the Cote d'Or, the land of gold, where the region's best wines are produced.
Days 17-18
Reims
Raise your glass to this historic city of champagne and coronations. Visit the champagne caves for an insight into the drink's effervescent magic.
Take a scenic stroll along the Seine and soak up the romance of Paris. There is plenty of time to explore so wander the long corridors of the Louvre or climb to the top of the Sacre Coeur in vibrant Montmartre. Then perhaps enjoy a final feast before saying au revoir to this romantic destination.
Dates/Pricing
Disclaimer
* The prices listed are based on the costs and exchange rates current at the
time of printing/posting. Intrepid reserves the right to alter these prices
at any time. For trips departing between 01 January 2007 and 31 December
2007, the land price of your trip is guaranteed when you have paid in full.
For trips departing beyond 31 December 2007, prices are indicative only. The
itineraries and dates online and in our printed brochures are applicable
from 01 January 2007 until 31 December 2007. Beyond 31 December 2007 dates
and itineraries are indicative only and are subject to change. All
information is accurate to the best of our knowledge at time of
printing/posting, but please note that changes to our trips (which can be
significant) can and do occur. Intrepid will make every effort to keep you
informed of any changes, but cannot be held liable for any alterations made
to the published itineraries. Please refer to our website for the most
recent update to any trip. Please note that these conditions apply to
Intrepid group trips only. Variations may apply for Intrepid Independent
trips.
Loss of monies paid applies to all cancelled reservations. The date of trip
cancellation is the date on which the written cancellation is received by
Intrepid.
Please ask your Travel Agent about our full Booking and Cancellation
Conditions.
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