Essential Europe

9 days from Rome to Paris


Vacation Overview

Basilicas, boutiques, and bistros. Cathedrals, canals, and cafés. Peaks, pasta, and pastries. This tour of Essential Europe goes beyond the “must-sees” to include the “must-dos,” the “must-discovers,” and the “must-devours.” As you travel and taste your way through Italy, Switzerland, and France, you’ll delightfully take a big bite out of your bucket list. The rolling Tuscan hills, the soaring Swiss Alps, plus mind-boggling mounds of Italian gelato, Swiss chocolate, and French éclairs are all awaiting from Rome to Paris on this delectable tour of Europe’s most popular destinations.

Cruising through Europe’s breathtaking scenery, captivating architecture, and greatest chapters of history has never been easier as you motor by private water taxi through the Grand Canal of Venice, ride an elevator to the courtyard of a medieval Swiss castle, and board a high-speed train for a scenic journey through the French countryside from Basel to Paris.

Itinerary

 

Day 1 ARRIVE IN ROME, ITALY

Welcome to Rome! At 5 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

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DinnerDinner

Day 2 ROME

When in Rome ROME Guided sightseeing includes the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Square and Basilica, and the Colosseum. Free afternoon.*

* For operational reasons, schedule changes for the Rome program cannot be excluded.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDARY LIVES Stand in awe and wonder amid one of mankind’s greatest artistic achievements in the Sistine Chapel. Hear how in 1508, a young Michelangelo was commissioned by Pope Julius II to decorate the chapel’s ceiling – a request not welcomed by the 33-year-old sculptor. Michelangelo’s 4-year project was indeed one of physical pain and psychological distress, while painting from scaffolds high above the sanctuary floor. Nevertheless, he created what is considered the most famous ceiling in the world, depicting the Creation of Adam in striking fresco style.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 3 ROME–FLORENCE

Fine Art in Firenze FLORENCE Guided sightseeing includes Michelangelo’s masterpiece, David, at the Academy of Fine Arts. See Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistry’s heavy bronze Gates of Paradise, and Signoria Square. Free time to browse.
174 mi / 280 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE Those lucky enough to visit the Tuscan capital are witness to some of the world’s most magnificent art Home to a wealth of Rennaissance masterpieces, Florence is famous for Michelangelo’s Marble Masterpiece, David, standing ready for battle in the Academy of Fine Arts. Outside, the Piazza del Duomo and Signoria Square offer spectacular sights of Florentine Gothic and Renaissance art, architecture, and monuments.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 4 FLORENCE–VENICE

Benvenuti a Venezia VENICE Take a private boat ride, followed by an orientation walk, including, St. Mark’s Square, the Bridge of Sighs, and a glassblowing demonstration. Free time to browse before dinner at a local restaurant followed by a private water-taxi ride through the Grand Canal.
174 mi / 280 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Indulge in the tastes and traditions of true Italian cuisine in the home of seafood, pasta, and wine in Venice. A cruise on the Grand Canal is the perfect grand finale! Buon appetito!


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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 5 VENICE–BELLINZONA, SWITZERLAND–LUCERNE

Spectacular Switzerland BELLINZONA Take the elevator to the Courtyard of Castelgrande and enjoy a light lunch with local specialties and Merlot wine for which the Ticino area is famous. Scenic drive through the Swiss Alps and St. Gotthard en route to Lucerne.
342 mi / 550 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
HISTORIC SPOTS Ride the elevator to the Courtyard of Castelgrande, high on the hills above Bellinzona. Part of the fortification dates back to the Middle Ages and it is today a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views and try out local specialties and the delicious Merlot wine for which the area is famous.


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Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch

Day 6 LUCERNE

Sweet Sights of Switzerland LUCERNE Walking tour includes the Lion Monument and the Chapel Bridge. Free time this afternoon and evening.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT Serenity is found in a gaze across the stunning panoramas of the Swiss Alps above the lovely city of Lucerne. Spend time at leisure with a stroll through its magnificent medieval architecture and peaceful alpine lake.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 7 LUCERNE–BASEL–PARIS, FRANCE

French Connection BASEL Board the high-speed TGV train to Paris. Free time this afternoon and evening.
404 mi / 650 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT Gliding across the French countryside at warp speed is an experience to write home about. Pass by the rows of vineyards on your way from Basel to Paris and get in the mood for the wine and song awaiting in the City of Light.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 8 PARIS

C’est Magnifique in the City of Light PARIS Free time this morning. Guided sightseeing this afternoon includes orientation drive and Seine River cruise. Farewell dinner at a local restaurant.*

* Note: for operational reasons, schedule changes for the Paris program cannot be excluded.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CITY SIGHTS As the song goes, we love Paris in the springtime; we love Paris in the fall - but no matter the season, we fall in love anytime we visit the most romantic city in the world. From the tranquility of the Seine River to the tempting treats in a corner café, your hearts are set on sharing France’s captivating City of Light any time you please.


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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 9 PARIS

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Vacation Highlights

* For operational reasons, schedule changes for the Rome and Paris program cannot be excluded.

Hotels

Rome

Radisson Blu Rome

Hotel as shown or similar
First-Class

Radisson Blu Rome is situated just a few minutes away from Via Veneto & the city's historic center. It has 285 sophisticated, air-conditioned rooms, all fully equipped with an LED TV, Free Wi-Fi, a minibar, desk and a bathroom furnished with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Classic Mediterranean delicacies, an aperitivo or a glass of Champagne can be enjoyed on the stylish 7th floor roof restaurant and bar and there is also a fitness room.

Florence

Grand Hotel Mediterraneo

Hotel as shown or similar
First-Class

Modern hotel situated on the banks of the river Arno, steps away from the city center. The Duomo and Palazzo Pitti are nearby.

Venice

Plaza Mestre

Hotel as shown or similar
First-Class

Modern hotel located across from Venice Mestre train station near Venice historic city center - Comfortable, well-furnished rooms.

Venice

Leonardo Royal

Hotel as shown or similar
First-Class

The Leonardo Royal Venice Mestre, with its 244 rooms and suites, is the perfect place to enjoy a visit to the amazing city of Venice or organise your business trips and meetings. The hotel is just a few steps from Mestre railway station, from where you can easily get to to the city's highlights. Its modern rooms are airconditioned and provide a desk, a minibar and a private bathroom. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi. Guests can also make use of the business center, work out at the gym or relax in the bar.

Lucerne

Astoria

Hotel as shown or similar
First-Class

Ideally located in the heart of Lucerne, surrounded by mountains, close to its lake boasting crystal clear waters, the historic old town, and famous Chapel Bridge. All 252 contemporary rooms have a minibar and Wi-Fi. There's a plush cocktail lounge, a stylish café, and a rooftop bar affording city views. Other facilities include a full equipped modern gym.

Paris

Les Jardins du Marais

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

In the centre of Paris, with 263 rooms and a tranquil garden, this delightful property is composed of nine 19th-century buildings and has 'small village' charm. Facilities include a restaurant, a bar/lounge, a fitness room and Free Wi-Fi access.

Dates and Prices

View the following dates and prices to find just the right date for your vacation. Below you'll find the date the vacation starts and the date you'll return.  

Once you've selected your date, you'll move to the next step to get an airfare quote and to begin booking your vacation. When you book your flights with us, you'll find we offer competitive and hassle-free airfares, plus you'll receive free airport transfers for flights coordinated with vacation dates and you'll avoid strict Internet terms and conditions.

The price listed does not include your airfare from Canada. Once you click "Book Now", you will be able to receive an air quote.

Departure
Details
Tour
Start Date
Return
Date
Land/Cruise
Price Only
 Status
2024-04-28 2024-05-06
$5,319
Not Available
2024-05-05 2024-05-13
$5,319
Please Call
2024-05-12 2024-05-20
$6,209
Please Call
2024-05-19 2024-05-27
$5,319
Please Call
2024-05-26 2024-06-03
$5,319
Please Call
2024-06-02 2024-06-10
$5,319
Please Call
2024-06-09 2024-06-17
$5,359
Please Call
2024-06-16 2024-06-24
$5,319
Please Call
Popular Departure
2024-06-23 2024-07-01
$5,319
Book Now!
Popular Departure
2024-06-30 2024-07-08
$5,269
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Popular Departure
2024-07-07 2024-07-15
$4,999
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Popular Departure
2024-08-25 2024-09-02
$5,519
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2024-09-01 2024-09-09
$5,549
Not Available
Popular Departure
2024-09-08 2024-09-16
$5,319
Book Now!
2024-09-15 2024-09-23
$5,319
Not Available
Popular Departure
2024-09-22 2024-09-30
$5,659
Book Now!
Popular Departure
2024-09-29 2024-10-07
$6,209
Book Now!
Popular Departure
2024-10-06 2024-10-14
$5,269
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Popular Departure
2024-10-13 2024-10-21
$6,299
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2025-04-06 2025-04-14
$5,569
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2025-04-20 2025-04-28
$5,859
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2025-04-27 2025-05-05
$5,859
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2025-05-04 2025-05-12
$5,859
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2025-05-07 2025-05-15
$6,819
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2025-05-11 2025-05-19
$5,859
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2025-05-18 2025-05-26
$5,859
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2025-05-21 2025-05-29
$6,819
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2025-05-25 2025-06-02
$5,859
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2025-06-01 2025-06-09
$5,859
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2025-06-04 2025-06-12
$6,879
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2025-06-08 2025-06-16
$5,899
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2025-06-15 2025-06-23
$5,859
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2025-06-18 2025-06-26
$6,819
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2025-06-22 2025-06-30
$5,859
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2025-06-29 2025-07-07
$5,809
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2025-07-02 2025-07-10
$6,769
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2025-07-06 2025-07-14
$5,489
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2025-07-13 2025-07-21
$5,619
Book Now!
2025-07-16 2025-07-24
$6,589
Book Now!
2025-07-20 2025-07-28
$5,619
Book Now!
2025-07-27 2025-08-04
$5,619
Book Now!
2025-07-30 2025-08-07
$6,589
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2025-08-03 2025-08-11
$6,079
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2025-08-10 2025-08-18
$6,079
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2025-08-13 2025-08-21
$7,029
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2025-08-17 2025-08-25
$6,079
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2025-08-24 2025-09-01
$6,079
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2025-08-27 2025-09-04
$7,119
Book Now!
2025-08-31 2025-09-08
$6,109
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2025-09-07 2025-09-15
$5,859
Not Available
2025-09-10 2025-09-18
$6,829
Book Now!
2025-09-14 2025-09-22
$5,859
Book Now!
2025-09-21 2025-09-29
$6,229
Book Now!
2025-09-24 2025-10-02
$7,179
Book Now!
2025-09-28 2025-10-06
$5,859
Book Now!
2025-10-05 2025-10-13
$5,799
Book Now!
2025-10-08 2025-10-16
$7,179
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2025-10-12 2025-10-20
$6,009
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2025-10-22 2025-10-30
$6,869
Book Now!
Popular Departure - due to itinerary and time of year, this departure historically sells out quickly. Early booking is encouraged.



Dates & Prices do not include international air travel.

Travel Terms & Conditions

The purchase of any travel services offered by Globus, constitutes a contractual arrangement between you and Globus, and represents your acceptance of the Terms & Conditions. Please ensure that you read carefully and understand the Terms & Conditions prior to booking. These Terms & Conditions cover Deposit & Final Payment information, Air-Inclusive Deposits & Final Payment, Revisions & Revision Fees, Air Arrangements, Participation, Travellers Who Need Special Assistance, Young Travellers, Smoking, Price Policy, Visas and Passports, Hotels & Accommodations, Baggage Allowance, Travel Documents, Not Included in the Land Price, Refunds, Service Inquires After the Vacation, Holidays, Safety, Photos & Pictures, Optional Excursions, and Responsibility.
View full Terms & Conditions


Important Notes

  • The “Starting at” or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per person based on twin occupancy and any applicable port charges, non-commissionable taxes and fees and intra-vacation flight are included in the price shown. Any included overnight stay in Canada, applicable GST/HST is also included in the price shown. International airfare, however, is not included. If price is crossed out, the new price shown includes a limited time promotional offer(s). Please review current promotions or deals for additional information.
  • Vacation departures, itineraries and prices are subject to change.
  • A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $250 per person per vacation is required for Globus to reserve space for you. View full Terms & Conditions for limited exceptions.
  • Charges not included in the land vacation price: airfare to/from the start/end of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal Customs and Immigrations; agricultural tax; GST/HST/PST or other per person taxes imposed by government entities; passports; visas and vaccinations; transfers; tips to your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ships' crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); additional excursions and activities not listed as 'included' in the itinerary; porterage at airports or train stations; Travel Insurance premiums; and all other items of a personal nature.

Booking your Vacation with Air

For air departure dates within 331 days, you'll be offered a choice of carriers and flight schedules as well as price points to choose from when selecting your flights. Your schedule will be provided to you at the time of booking (schedules are subject to change by carriers). Globus offers 2 air options: Flex Air and Instant Purchase Air. Flex Air allows flexibility if you want to make changes to your vacation schedule. Instant Purchase Air may offer additional airline options but has more restrictions. Some vacations may only offer one Air type option.

Guaranteed air-inclusive prices: air is only available to passengers travelling from Canada (with some exceptions from the United States, depending on the selected itinerary). An additional $300 per person non-refundable air deposit is required for Flex Air booked in conjunction with any land vacation (i.e. air-inclusive vacation). Air can only be booked by Globus in conjunction with a vacation package. Instant Purchase Air requires air payment in full at time of booking (i.e. air-inclusive vacation) plus a non-refundable service fee of $80 per person. Once booked, Instant Purchase Air is non-refundable, and non-changeable. Once your airfare is confirmed and Globus has received your full air and land deposit, your air-inclusive vacation price is guaranteed.

Air-Inclusive Vacations — Applicable Taxes & Fees

Air inclusive price quotes will include all government-imposed taxes and fees applicable at the time of booking and will be shown as a Total Amount. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply. At the time of booking your air-inclusive vacation online, carrier Websites will be provided to check baggage fees, or you can visit www.iflybags.com for up-to-date baggage pricing/restrictions. The total airfare price, the base airfare price, and the applicable government taxes and fees are broken-out line-by-line and shown while booking online and on the invoice after your travel is booked. For return travel from some countries, international travellers are required to pay entry and/or exit fees at the airport. These fees will be collected by the local government and are payable by the traveller at time of travel. Your confirmation booking information will contain information about these fees.