Compare Prague to Paris & Legends of Moselle, Rhine and Main by Emerald Waterways vs Start Amsterdam End Paris Small Group by Insight Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
Trip |
5 | Excellent
|
5 | Excellent
|
Duration | 14 days | 16 days |
Price From | $ 4,115 | $ 6,840 |
Price Per Day | $ 294 | $ 428 |
Highlights |
|
|
Trip Style | River cruise | Group tour |
Lodging Level | Premium | Premium |
Physical Level |
|
|
Travel Themes |
|
|
Countries Visited | ||
Cities and Attractions |
|
|
Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
Activities |
|
|
Meals Included |
20 meals: 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches and 7 Dinners |
N/A |
Description |
The Rhine, the Moselle, the Main: easily some of Europe’s most scenic and culturally-significant waterways. Travel all three on an unforgettable cruise from Trier to Nuremberg, taking in stunning vistas of mountainside vineyards, ancient castles, and charming hamlets along the way. Additional days in Paris and Prague, two of the world’s liveliest and most striking capitals, make the 15-day Paris to Prague tour a can’t-miss for those wishing to experience the very best the region has to offer. From the wide, tree-lined boulevards of Paris where you’ll see the Eiffel Tower lit up in all its splendour, to the narrow, cobblestoned streets of Prague where a fairytale castle overlooks the city from above, each and every stop on this extraordinary itinerary will have your cameras flashing at breakneck speed. |
From London to Rome and onto Paris, this grand tour takes in Cinque Terre, abundant Florence sightseeing and a delectable Lucerne Dine Around evening. After speeding from London to Amsterdam aboard Eurostar, the perfect introduction to the Netherlands is a curated cruise through the canals led by local experts. Onwards in style into Germany, the Rhine's UNESCO world heritage sites give way to the golden city of Prague—where your local guide will lead you through the hilltop castle courtyards and the grandiose St Vitus Cathedral or through the Jewish Quarter. A tour of Italy serves up the gondola-filled canals of Venice and the opulence of Rome, before Swiss delights beckon in Lucerne. Paris dazzles last with a chance to shop the city's boutiques like a local and enjoy views of iconic sights, including Notre-Dame and the Louvre. |
Day 1: Arrive Prague
Welcome to Prague, one of Europe’s magical cities. Situated on the banks of the River Vltava in central Bohemia, this beautiful city is rich in history and is home to some of the world’s most pristine collections of architecture. You will be met at Prague International Airport and transferred* to your centrally located hotel. This evening meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a welcome drink.
Day 2: Prague Sightseeing
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
This morning we explore the sights of the Old Town Square on a guided walking tour. We see Mozart´s Theatre, Little Square and Astronomical Clock. After lunch we continue our tour and walk across the Charles Bridge spanning the River Vltava, to board our coach to drive to the 1,000-year-old Prague Castle area. With our local guide we walk through Hradcany Square, and see the magnificent Loreta Monastery, and arrive at Hradcany Castle. Here we see Old Kings Palace, St. George´s Monastery, The National Gallery painting exhibition and Golden Lane. This evening we experience a night of dancing and entertainment at a Czech Highlight Dinner in a local tavern.
Day 3: Prague Day at Leisure
Meals: Breakfast
Your Tour Director is on hand to help plan your day’s exploring. The baroque quarter of Mala Strana is a must see, as is Josefov, the Jewish quarter. You will no doubt return to the lively atmosphere around the Charles Bridge for another look.
OPTIONAL TOUR Blatná Castle (additional expense)
Day 4: Prague - Nuremberg Embarkation
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
This morning travel by coach from Prague to Nuremberg. A warm welcome awaits you from your Captain and crew as you board your award-winning Emerald Waterways river cruise ship.
Day 5: Bamberg
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
This morning we arrive at Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Boasting one of Europe’s largest intact medieval town centres, Bamberg is bursting with original character and charm. At the centre of the town is the largest preserved old quarter in Europe. Around 2,400 listed buildings and the centuries–old garden quarter form a special cultural heritage.
Day 6: Wurzburg
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road”, Würzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. Join our guide for a walking tour of Würzburg followed by a visit to the Bishops’ Residenz, one of Germany’s largest and most ornate baroque palaces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 7: Wertheim – Miltenberg
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Welcome to Miltenberg, a picturesque village on the Main River, which creates an imitable feeling of Bavarian life in medieval times due to the Old Town being lined with well-preserved half-timbered buildings. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the village and pass by the gothic Merchant Hall, an impressive symbol of past affluence created by trade from river traffic. This afternoon cruise to Koblenz.
Day 8: Koblenz
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today’s cruising will be a highlight of your trip, as we cruise through the spectacular Rhine Gorge. We’ll pass the infamous Lorelei Rock where sailors are said to have been lured onto treacherous rocks by enchanted temptresses. This afternoon enjoy a walking tour of the 2,000 year old town of Koblenz before free time to wander through the town and take in the views from the cable car.
Day 9: Bernkastel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Dating back to 3000BC, Bernkastel is situated along the banks of the Moselle River and home to well-preserved buildings dating back to 1416. Stroll through the medieval marketplace with its gabled timber-framed houses, castle ruins and town gate on your guided walking tour. Historically a winegrowing town, vines cover the steep-slopes surrounding the village.
Day 10: Trier
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Explore the ruins of the old city baths, once a hive of activity during ancient times and the Porta Nigra, the best preserved Roman city gate north of the Alps on your guided walking tour of Trier.
Day 11: Disembarkation Amsterdam
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast we journey by coach from Trier to Metz then train to Paris. This evening meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a welcome drink.
Day 12: Paris
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
A sightseeing tour with a local guide takes you to see Notre Dame Cathedral famous for the tale of Quasimodo, the hunchback of Notre Dame. See the Obelisk in the centre of the Place de la Concorde and drive along the elegant Champs Élysees to the Arc de Triomphe. Enjoy a sightseeing cruise on the River Seine finishing at the Eiffel Tower. This tour will give you an excellent overview of the city. Our day is completed with a Parisian dinner.
Day 13: Paris
Sightseeing is an endless pleasure in Paris, and your Tour Director is on hand to help you plan your day to explore the romance capital of the world. View the Mona Lisa at The Louvre or stroll the Champs Elysees.
OPTIONAL TOUR Excursion to Vaux-le-Vicomte Chateau and Garden (additional expense)
Day 14: Depart Paris
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast you will be transferred* to Charles de Gaulle International Airport for your onward or home bound flight.
*Check transfer entitlements with your travel agent. For guests who have already received documentation - refer to your booking summary
Day 1: Welcome to Amsterdam
Welcome to Amsterdam, enjoy a day of leisure. Join your Travel Director at 17:00 for a Welcome Reception. Mingle and get to know your fellow travellers as you cruise along some of the many quaint, tree-lined canals, to explore the heart of the Old City, before enjoying a pleasant evening of dinner and wine at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Legends along the Rhine
Cross into Germany, through the romantic Rhine Valley and into Würzburg. Visit the imposing Würzburg Residenz ,a UNESCO WorldHeritage Site. Marvel at intricate decorations and lavish state rooms boasting with French, Austrian and Venetian influences.
Day 3: Rothenburg and Golden Prague Relaxed Start
In the morning, see the mighty Marienburg Fortress - the immense baroque palace of the Prince Bishops and one of the most important landmarks in Germany. Venture to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the most well-preserved town on the Romantic Road. Continue east to the Czech border, passing the town of Pilsen renowned for its beer, to reach the Golden City of Prague. In the evening, perhaps take a river cruise through the heart of the city?
Day 4: Prague, City of a Hundred Spires
Explore Prague with Insight Choice. Choose to walk the courtyards of the Castle and visit the imposing St. Vitus Cathedral. Alternatively, join your Local Expert through the Jewish Quarter and hear about the history, traditions and legends of the Jewish people and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry. Then, the city is all yours to explore. Perhaps rummage through the renowned antique stores or shop for the finest Bohemian crystal? In the evening, why not enjoy an Optional Experience in the Czech countryside?
Day 5: Salzburg, City of Mozart Relaxed Start
Journey through the Czech Republic and continue south over the Austrian border and onto Salzburg, the city of Mozart and the ‘Sound of Music.’ A Local Expert shows you the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace which includes the fountains and statues where the 'Do, Re, Mi' scene was filmed. Later see Residence Square and its fountain, where Maria sings 'I Have Confidence'. Witness the imposing fortress, immense cathedral and Mozart’s birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse. In the evening, experience authentic Farm-to-Table dining at a local organic farm and enjoy the flavours of homemade dishes.
Day 6: The Tauern Mountains to Venice Relaxed Start
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Salzburg to shop for local marzipan specialties. Perhaps take the opportunity to marvel at impressive views atop Kehlsteinhaus - the Eagle’s Nest - a unique example of historic architecture in a stunning alpine setting? Later, stunning scenery surrounds you as you travel down the Tauern Mountains to cross the Italian border. Continue to the romantic city of Venice, Queen of the Adriatic, where your hotel is perfectly located in one of the quietest peaceful and authentic Venetian districts.
Day 7: The Magic of 'La Serenissima' Relaxed Start
In the morning, prepare to embrace this most romantic city. See the immense Campanile and Doge's Palace on St. Mark's Square, connected to the ancient prisons by the Bridge of Sighs. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you witness the skill of glassblowers on a visit to a traditional arts centre. The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps shop in the small arcades or why not cruise the Venetian lagoon to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine?
Day 8: Onto the Eternal City of Rome
Head into the Apennine Mountains and the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria. Your journey continues as you follow the course of the Tiber to your hotel in the Eternal City of Rome.
Day 9: Rome with the locals Relaxed Start
Rome is about art, antiquity, piazzas and pizzazz, and your morning walking tour with a Local Expert includes this in abundance. Toss a coin into the spectacular Trevi Fountain and see the best-preserved monument from the Roman period - the Pantheon, before enjoying free time to do as the Romans do, in Piazza Navona. Perhaps join a tour inside the Colosseum, the scene of many gladiatorial contests, and see the Roman Forum?
Day 10: The Vatican and Florence
Start the day with your Local Expert they introduce you to the grandeur of the city, starting with the Vatican State, the richest community in the world. Visit the Vatican Museums, full of priceless treasures collected by the Popes. Insight provides special priority entry to avoid the crowds and behind-the-scenes access to the Bramante Staircase - a marvel of Renaissance architecture normally off-limits to the general public. Once inside the Sistine Chapel, admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling. Next door, visit St. Peter's Basilica to admire Michelangelo's emotive 'Pieta' and see Bernini's intricately carved Papal Altar. Your travels continue through peaceful Umbria and Tuscany, to arrive at the city of Florence. A Local Expert will accompany you to the Duomo, where the Gates of Paradise adorn the baptistery. Continue to Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city. Lined with fountains and statues, it acts as an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Take time to gaze at Neptune and David as you explore the historic city center.
Day 11: The Cinque Terre
The famous Italian Riviera and the Cinque Terre are a highlight of your journey. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes. With a Local Expert, appreciate the views as you approach one of the picturesque fishing villages by boat (weather permitting). Spend time exploring the old medieval quarter or the popular sandy beach. Savour authentic Italian cuisine with a delicious Sea-to-Table lunch at Ristorante Da Ely in Monterosso. Continue by train to Levanto, then on to your resort in Rapallo.
Day 12: Across the Alps to Lucerne
Pass Milan as you head north for the Italian Lake District via Lake Lugano. Continue into the heart of the Swiss Alps, passing through the Saint Gotthard Tunnel, one of the longest road tunnels in the world. Travel alongside towering mountains and past rushing torrents, down to scenic Lake Lucerne, where you are leisure for the rest of the afternoon.
Day 13: Lucerne’s Lakes and Mountains
In the morning, embark on a scenic journey by funicular railway and open-top cable car to the summit of the stunning Mount Stanserhorn. Take in the pristine mountain air and, on a clear day, witness views as far as Alsace and the Black Forest in Germany. Explore Mount Stanserhorn with Insight Choice. Choose to explore scenic pathways, with a chance to see native animals. Alternatively, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora. Upon return to Lucerne, see the town's proud Lion Monument, carved into a limestone cliff and dedicated to the heroic Swiss Guards who died defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Then, take some time to stroll across the covered Chapel Bridge and see the baroque Jesuit church. The rest of the day is at leisure to shop for fine watches and delectable chocolates. Tonight, enjoy a fine selection of restaurants to choose from for your Dine-Around Evening.
Day 14: Sights and delights of Paris
Journey through the rural French country side of Burgundy, famous for its vineyards and wines, to arrive in the vibrant City of Light. During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral and the imposing facades of the Louvre. Discover the banks of the Seine with its many romantic bridges, see the obelisk in the centre of the Place de la Concorde and drive along the Champs Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe. With the evening free, there are countless opportunities to enjoy the lively atmosphere of this glittering city. Why not visit one of the world-famous cabaret shows?
Day 15: The food and flavours of Paris
Your exploration of Paris today starts with an Insight Choice. Choose to shop in quaint boutiques like a true Parisian for fashion, perfume or cosmetics with your Local Expert. Alternatively, join an avid foodie as you head into areas where Parisians go about their daily lives to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. In the evening, indulge in refined French cuisine during your Celebration Dinner at the iconic restaurant La Coupole, frequently visited by the French entertainer Josephine Baker.
Day 16: Au Revoir Paris
Bid farewell to your travelling companions as your journey comes to an end. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08:00 and 11:00.