Best of Europe in 21 Days Tour: 9 Countries, 21 Days

Best of Europe in 21 Days Tour: An All-Encompassing Journey

Embarking on the Best of Europe in 21 Days Tour means more than just seeing the sights — it’s about experiencing the heart of Europe with seasoned guides, engaging local experts, and a small, friendly tour group. From the Netherlands to Paris, this comprehensive three-week journey reveals the must-see cities, stunning landscapes, and cultural treasures that define the European experience. Join us as we unpack every phase of this remarkable itinerary.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Best of Europe in 21 Days Tour is a meticulously crafted adventure that enables travelers to:

• Visit nine countries and experience the best of western and central Europe.
• Travel in a small group (24–28 people) for an intimate, engaging experience.
• Benefit from the expertise of a dedicated Rick Steves guide and local experts.
• Enjoy over 30 included sightseeing events and skip-the-line access to Europe’s top attractions.
• Relax with all transportation, top-rated accommodations, and many meals included.

Complete Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to the Netherlands

Your journey begins in Haarlem, a charming Dutch city just a short distance from Amsterdam’s airport. After settling into your centrally located hotel, meet your fellow travelers and guide for an orientation session and a leisurely walking tour. The day concludes with a traditional rijsttafel dinner, introducing the group to Dutch culinary delights.

Day 2: Progressive, Artistic Amsterdam

Take a short train ride to Amsterdam, a vibrant city where bikes, canals, and art converge. Explore historic neighborhoods on foot, marvel at gabled houses during a canal cruise, and visit the world-renowned Rijksmuseum to see masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Use your free time to explore the Van Gogh Museum, the poignant Anne Frank House, or simply wander Amsterdam’s eclectic streets.

Day 3: Dutch Treats and Rhine Views

Begin the day with visits such as the Arnhem Open-Air Museum or, in spring, the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens. Savor a traditional Dutch pancake lunch before entering Germany and reaching the stunning Rhine Valley. Check into a riverside hotel in Bacharach and enjoy a scenic introduction to this storybook setting.

Day 4: Rhine Castles and a River Cruise

Wake up to fairytale vistas along the Rhine. Explore the imposing Rheinfels Castle, followed by a relaxing cruise between vine-clad medieval castles and villages. Stroll through postcard-perfect Bacharach, and sample local wines or regional flavors in the evening.

Day 5: Bavarian Medieval Magic

Travel the famed Romantic Road to the walled town of Rothenburg. Participate in the Night Watchman’s Tour, revealing the legends and history behind this medieval gem. Enjoy free time to wander cobblestone lanes and savor Franconian fare.

Day 6: Dachau and Alpine Arrival

Travel south to visit the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial for a reflective experience. From there, enter the majestic Bavarian Alps, with their dramatic peaks and quintessential villages.

Day 7: Salzburg and Tirolean Delights

Cross into Austria and delight in the charms of Salzburg, Mozart’s hometown. Take a city walking tour featuring baroque squares and the impressive Salzburg Cathedral. Enjoy a hands-on apple strudel baking lesson before savoring the city’s musical and culinary traditions.

Day 8: Austrian Alps Adventure

Relax and play in the Austrian Tirolean countryside. Ride a mountain luge (weather permitting), explore alpine villages, or simply drink in views of forests and meadows. This day offers time to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of central Europe.

Day 9: Venice – La Serenissima

Travel south to Italy and arrive in legendary Venice. Glide via vaporetto (water bus) to your thoughtfully chosen hotel. Unveil the city’s secrets on a guided walking tour through labyrinthine lanes, discovering St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and hidden corners only locals know.

Day 10: Exploring Venice at Leisure

Enjoy a free day in Venice. Visit the Doges’ Palace, sail to the colorful islands of Murano or Burano, browse the bustling markets, or simply lose yourself in the maze of canals and piazzas. Capture the essence of Venetian daily life with spontaneous exploration.

Day 11: Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance

Overland into the hills of Tuscany to Renaissance Florence. Marvel at iconic works in the Accademia Gallery (home to Michelangelo’s David) and the Uffizi Gallery. Your guided walking tour brings the city’s history to life, from awe-inspiring cathedrals to vibrant markets and squares.

Day 12: A Day in Tuscan Splendor

Free time to immerse yourself in Florence’s artistic treasures, shop for leather or artisan goods, or take a side-trip to classic Tuscan hill towns. Enjoy gelato in a sunny piazza and dine on exquisite regional cuisine.

Day 13: Rome Beckons

Travel to the Eternal City, snapping photos at the Trevi Fountain during an orientation stroll. Ancient wonders and lively Roman streets set the stage for unforgettable evenings.

Day 14: Rome’s Timeless Landmarks

Tour the city’s highlights with a professional guide, from the Pantheon to awe-inspiring views of the Roman Forum and Colosseum (exterior). Dive into bustling markets, trattorias, and the timeless energy of Rome at your own pace in the afternoon.

Day 15: The Italian Riviera – Cinque Terre

Head to the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre on the Ligurian coast. Settle into your seaside hotel, then join your guide for an orientation walk and advice for making the most of your ‘vacation day’. Savor the relaxed pace and stunning scenery.

Day 16: Village Hopping and Hiking

Enjoy a free day to hike the scenic footpaths between colorful fishing villages, swim in the Mediterranean, or sample Ligurian specialties. Soak up the sun and the beauty of Italy’s premier coastal region.

Day 17: Into the Swiss Alps

Travel north into Switzerland, ascending into the heart of the Alps for breathtaking vistas. Settle into a mountain village such as Lauterbrunnen or Mürren. Hiking orientation prepares you for adventures amid snow-capped peaks and lush meadows.

Day 18: Swiss Alpine Majesty

Take a full day to enjoy the Swiss outdoors: gentle walks, challenging hikes, or cable-car ascents. Dramatic landscapes offer countless photo opportunities, while idyllic villages provide hearty mountain fare.

Day 19: Burgundy – Wines and Medieval Marvels

Descend from the Alps into France’s Burgundy region. Stroll the charming streets of Beaune, visit the historic Hôtel Dieu (medieval hospital), and taste some of the world’s finest wines during a guided tasting. Absorb the tranquil rhythms of small-town France.

Day 20: Paris – The Grand Finale Begins

Arrive in the City of Light. Acquaint yourself with bustling cafes and markets, then take a transportation orientation and a Métro ride into the heart of Paris: the Ile de la Cité. With a local guide, explore the history of Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, and the vibrant Latin Quarter. Evening is yours for dining and discovery.

Day 21: Parisian Masterpieces and Farewell

Tour reaches its crescendo with a guided visit to the Louvre Museum. Armed with Rick Steves’ audio guide, encounter world-renowned art including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. Enjoy free time for final explorations—perhaps the Musée d’Orsay, the Rodin Museum, or a stroll along the Champs-Élysées—before gathering for a festive farewell dinner with your fellow travelers.

What’s Included

• At least 30 guided group sightseeing events covering major sites and hidden gems.
• Admissions for all group activities, from museums and castles to wine tastings and culinary lessons.
• All group transportation from Haarlem to Paris (private coach, train, canal boats, etc.).
• Carefully selected, centrally located hotels for all 20 nights.
• All breakfasts and 10 additional group meals (lunches/dinners).
• All tips for guides, drivers, and included activities.
• Tour kit (Rick Steves guidebook, moneybelt, and more).
• Guaranteed tour price, with no hidden surcharges after deposit.
• Transfer flexibility and alum discounts for repeat travelers.

Why Choose This Tour?

• Meticulously planned three-week itinerary—see the most in the perfect amount of time.
• Small group ensures personalized attention and group camaraderie.
• Rich mix of art, cuisine, history, city and countryside, UNESCO sites, and authentic local experiences.
• All logistics expertly handled so you can focus on discovery and enjoyment.

Sample Pricing & Departure Dates

Note: Single supplement, flight costs, and personal expenses (extra sightseeing, drinks, souvenirs) are not included in the base price. A tour alum discount is available for repeat customers.

Essential Travel Tips

• Pack light: Most travel between cities is done by private coach or train, but you’ll need to be comfortable with your own luggage for transfers and walking tours.
• Reserve ahead for popular free-time sights—especially Amsterdam’s Anne Frank House and Paris museums.
• Embrace a balance of guided activity and independent exploration; the itinerary is flexible enough for personal curiosity.
• All breakfasts and many group meals are included; utilize free evenings to sample local cuisine on your own.
• Guides are always on hand for restaurant recommendations and logistical help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How large are the tour groups?

Groups are limited to 24–28 travelers, about half the size of most European group tours, ensuring a more personal experience and easier access to attractions.

What kinds of accommodations are provided?

All hotels are thoughtfully chosen for charm, comfort, central location, and local character. Most are family-run or boutique properties, not large corporate chains.

Are there many early mornings or long travel days?

While the itinerary is ambitious, travel days are balanced with restful mornings and free time. Coach rides and train journeys are designed for comfort, with periodic breaks and scenic stops.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?

Absolutely — solo travelers are warmly welcomed and often bond easily in the supportive group environment. A single supplement is available for those preferring private rooms.

What language are the tours conducted in?

Tours are guided in English, with local experts often adding insights in English as well.

Start Your European Adventure

With the Best of Europe in 21 Days Tour, you benefit from decades of travel expertise, hand-picked experiences, and the joy of sharing discovery with new friends. From the winding canals of Amsterdam to Parisian boulevards, every day brings a new adventure and an unforgettable memory. Make the dream of a grand tour of Europe a reality!