16 Days – 15 Nights The Souls Of Europe A European Odyssey With Javier
|16 Days, 12 Destinations |Starts from Madrid
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Duration
16 days

Max Group Size
35

Tour Code
16D15NTSOEAEOWJ

Tour Type
Request as group tour

Departure Type
Request

Age Requirement
11 - 99 Ages

Guiding Method
Fully guided

Operated In
English

Physical level
easy

Tour route map

Madrid

Pickup Time:

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Rome

Dropoff Time:

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Activities

FamilyDiscoveryExplorerHistoricalIn-depth CulturalPhotographySolo TravelSee Itinerary

Tour Overview

Welcome to a curated journey through the heart of Europe, a sojourn crafted with care and passion to unveil the continent's diverse tapestry of history, culture, and natural wonders. I am Javier, a retired medical doctor dedicated now to travel and help others to travel and enjoy life, your tour escort on this amazing adventure. I would love to invite you to join me and explore together the souls of Europe. Our adventure commences in the vibrant city of Madrid. Picture yourself savoring delectable Spanish cuisine and strolling cobblestone lanes. Journeying through Spain, Segovia and Avila beckon with tales of ancient castles and medieval walls, leading to Burgos' Gothic splendor and the contemporary allure of Bilbao. Crossing borders, Bordeaux awaits, a French haven celebrated for wines and architectural elegance. Tours unfolds with châteaux marvels like enchanting Chenonceau and the grandeur of Chambord, leading us to the iconic City of Lights – Paris. Imagine strolling along the Seine, basking in the glow of the Eiffel Tower, and exploring the Louvre's celebrated works of art. Luxembourg offers respite, granting freedom to explore its grandeur. Continuing to Mainz, German history and charm set the stage for our next adventure. The Romantic Road winds through Würzburg, Harburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle – each a portal to enchanting landscapes and historical treasures. Venice, with labyrinthine canals and timeless allure, welcomes you before venturing into Florence – a city breathing art and culture. The Tuscan countryside reveals wonders in Pisa, St. Gimigiano, and Siena. The grand finale unfolds in Rome, where the legacy of Imperial Rome and Vatican City's splendor converge – a journey transcending time, a fusion of landscapes, cultures, and history. As we bid adieu, envision the tapestry of memories woven during this odyssey – memories that linger, forming a mosaic of experiences only a journey through Europe can provide. Embark on this immersive voyage with me, where every moment invites you to discover, appreciate, and cherish the boundless beauty of Europe. If you wish to arrive/depart from Madrid, we offer you an extension from Rome to Barcelona with a ferry cuising the Mediterranean Sea.

Highlights

  • The Souls Of Europe
  • A European Odyssey With Javier

Itinerary

Intercontinental flight to Madrid. Arrival, reception and transfer to your hotel to rejuvenate from the long-haul flight and get ready for your European adventure. Madrid is the capital of Spain and capital of the autonomous community of Madrid, seat of government and official residence of the kings of Spain. The center of Madrid is the Puerta del Sol. In the afternoon you will be part of a city tour in Madrid; find the medieval origins of the city, like the Arabic fortress, at the Barrio de la Morería, famous for its historical buildings. We will drive through the courtesan district of the Hapsburgs characterized by Phillip II and its Renaissance and Baroque style buildings, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor and Plaza de la Villa; the Madrid of the Bourbons and the complex town planning schemes of Charles III, the Royal Palace, Cibeles and Neptuno Fountains and the Puerta de Alcalá. The contemporary Madrid with areas such as Gran Vía, Castellana, the district of Salamanca, Plaza Castilla and Parque del Oeste, as well as commercial and financial areas of Modern Madrid, the emblematic Las Ventas Bullring and the Santiago Bernabéu Football Stadium. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Madrid

Breakfast at the hotel. Today we will have a full day tour to Segovia and Avila, two enchanting cities, rich in history. Avila is a city that preserves the most ancient and complete fortified complex in Spain. Its 2500 m wall and its 90 fortified towers surround the old city, which houses great part of its monumental treasure including Romanesque style churches, gothic palaces and a fortified cathedral of the XII century. We will visit the Convent and Museum of Teresa de Jesús, the Cathedral from outside, the Plaza Mayor and the Basilica of San Vicente. Continue to Segovia, famous for its wellpreserved roman aqueduct. Home of some of the kings of Castile, this city preserves one of the most important medieval group of buildings in Spain. Due to its elegance, the Cathedral of Segovia is considered to be “the Lady of the Cathedrals”. We will visit the Acueduct, the Cathedral and the Alcázar. Back to Madrid and free time for private activities. Overnight. (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the North of Spain via Burgos with a monumental treasure among which are the gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria, the monastery of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas and the Carthusian monastery of Miraflores. In addition, the city is bisected by the Camino de Santiago. After the visit, we will continue to San Sebastian, 20 Km. from the French border. The city is the capital of the province of Gipuzkoa, in the autonomous community of the Basque Country, being one of the most famous tourist destinations in Spain. San Sebastian is often hailed as the culinary capital of Spain and is famous for its pintxos culture (small snacks like tapas). Food lovers will find a haven of gastronomic delights. Overnight in San Sebastian. (B) 

Breakfast at the Hotel. We will start the day exploring the cultural richness of San Sebastian in the heart of the Old Town (Parte Vieja), a charming labyrinth of narrow streets adorned with historic buildings. Traverse the bustling Plaza de la Constitución, before we continue to witness the architectural elegance of the San Vicente Church. Our journey extends to the picturesque La Concha Promenade. Conclude our tour at the Miramar Palace Gardens, where the juxtaposition of nature and architecture creates a serene retreat. The trip continues to the wine region of France, reaching Bordeaux, capital of the Dukes of Aquitaine. If you are interested, we can book a wine tasting and cellar visit for you. After check-in, free time. Overnight. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, we will have a short city tour in Bordeaux, where we will explore its historic heart as we wander through the charming Old Town, marveling at the Gothic architecture of the Bordeaux Cathedral and the elegant Place de la Bourse. Our journey continues along the Garonne River, where the iconic Pont de Pierre offers stunning views of the cityscape. Uncover the city's rich maritime heritage at the Water Mirror, the world's largest reflecting pool. Back to the hotel for checkout and departure to Tours, the main city at the Loire Valley, known as the Garden of France, with great significance for tourism for the quality of its architectural heritage, and many castles as you can see in this trip. The landscape of the Loire Valley and particularly its many cultural monuments, illustrate the ideals of the Renaissance and the thoughts of Age of Enlightenment and Western European design. Check in at the hotel and time for private activities. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. Departure to Paris with visit on the way of the two most remarkable castles at the Lorie Valley. Discover the epitome of Renaissance elegance in Chenonceau, a fairy-tale castle gracefully spanning the Cher River. Marvel at its exquisite architecture, lush gardens, and the captivating Gallery Bridge. Next, venture into the grandeur of Chambord, the largest of the Loire castles, built to serve only as a hunting lodge for King Francis I and a masterpiece of French Renaissance architecture. Lose yourself in the vastness of its double-helix staircase, the iconic symbol of this majestic château. Arrive in Paris and check-in at the Hotel. Overnight in Paris. (B).

Breakfast at the hotel. Morning tour of the City of Light, along the Champs Elysees, Arc de Triomphe, City Isle, etc. Continue to the Eiffel Tower and marvel the city from the top platform. Then, we will have a boat cruise on the Seine River before ending the tour. Free afternoon. Visit some of the city's museums, including the Musee D'Orsay and the Wax Museum. In the evening we suggest going to a cabaret, whether the "Moulin Rouge" in the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre or "The Lido" on the Champs Elysseeés. Overnight. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning we will drive to Versailles on a guided tour. This was a sleepy village until Louis XIII began to build a hunting lodge there in 1623. By the end of the century, continued expansion saw the town and castle become the symbolic centre of the absolute monarchy of the Ancien Régime. You will visit the State Apartments ; get a sense of life in the French court as you take a walk through the glittering Hall of Mirrors. Stroll through the legendary gardens at your own pace, and admire fountains, sculptures, and beautifully manicured lawns. After visiting the Palace, we will come back to Paris. In the afternoon, visit the Museum El Louvre at your own pace, considered the most important museum in the world, for the richness of its collections and the influence it has had on the other museums in the world. Rest of the afternoon at leisure. How about shopping? Visit the Grand Boulevards for an amazing experience or just go around the Champs Elyssees where you will find fine boutiques and department stores. Overnight in Paris. (B)

Breakfast at the Hotel. Our journey continues today heading east from Paris to the enchanting city of Luxembourg, where ancient and modern intertwine seamlessly. At arrival, free time to explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its charming medieval architecture, including the Grand Ducal Palace and the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Stroll along the picturesque Pétrusse Valley, where ancient fortifications meet lush greenery, offering panoramic views of this captivating city. After that, we continue our ride into Germany, through picturesque landscapes that transition from Luxembourg's charming hills to the vineyard-dotted regions of the Rhine Valley. Arrival in , a city known because of its Old Town, adorned with medieval architecture, including the iconic Mainz Cathedral and the Gutenberg Museum, showcasing the printing press's birthplace. Overnight. (B)

Breakfast at the Hotel. Today we will embark on a picturesque journey from Mainz to Würzburg, tracing the scenic banks of the Main River. Upon arrival in Würzburg, delve into the city's charm with a guided tour, unveiling treasures like the Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continuing our adventure, we travel to the medieval enchantment of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Wander through cobblestone streets, surrounded by well-preserved medieval buildings. Immerse yourself in the romantic allure of this captivating town, where every corner tells a story. Conclude the day with an overnight stay, letting Rothenburg's timeless charm leave an indelible mark on your journey. (B) 

Breakfast at the Hotel. We have today a scenic journey along the Romantic Road from Würzburg to Füssen, a route renowned for its fairytale landscapes and charming villages. Traverse picturesque countryside, passing through storybook towns and medieval castles. En route, stop at the enchanting Harburg Castle, a well-preserved medieval gem. As the journey continues, behold the iconic silhouette of Neuschwanstein Castle, perched atop the Bavarian Alps. Explore the fairy-tale allure of this masterpiece, built by King Ludwig II, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The Romantic Road unveils a captivating tapestry of history and beauty, making every stop a magical chapter in your European adventure. Overnight (B)

Today our tour continues to Italy. We drive on a scenic journey from Füssen to the romantic city of Venice, with a charming stopover in Verona. Explore here the iconic House of Juliette, a symbol of enduring love. Wander through the enchanting courtyard adorned with love notes and immerse yourself in the timeless tale of Romeo and Juliette. You can leave a note with your love promise as well. We will also see the famous roman Arena. Continuing our adventure, we travel through picturesque landscapes to reach the mesmerizing waterways of Venice. The journey combines the allure of historic Verona with the unique charm of the Venetian canals, promising a seamless transition from romantic tales to the magical atmosphere of the Floating City. After check-in, explore the city at your own pace following small alleys searching for amazing places. Overnight. (B)  

Breakfast at the hotel. Walking tour of the city of 118 islands, among others walking to the Piazza San Marco, the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs, etc. Free time on your own to walk through the labyrinthine streets and canals and admire the beautiful contrasts between Palaces at the Grand Canal and the small churches. In the afternoon, we will continue our tour to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance and the Italian language. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and short break before we start an evening guided tour through this city full of Art, History & Culture. Admire the Cathedral of Santa Maria dei Fiori with its beautifully decorated Campanile and the Baptistery decorated with the famous Gates of Paradise, where familiar personalities like Michelangelo or Dante Alighieri spent a time. We will also see the Ponte Vecchio, a historic bridge spanning the Arno River and an iconic symbol of Florence, providing panoramic views of the city and creating a timeless atmosphere along the riverbanks. Renowned for its medieval architecture, the bridge is unique for its shops built along its length, offering a delightful array of jewelry, art, and souvenirs. Back to the hotel. Overnight. (B) 

Breakfast. Morning departure for Rome. On the way, we will discover the untouched beauty of Tuscany! From medieval towns, to rolling hills, and fine wines… An unforgettable day awaits! Crossing over the beautiful Chianti hills, you will first arrive at the medieval gem of Monteriggioni, with its ancient walls still perfectly intact. As you stroll through the rustic streets, you will feel as though you are traveling through time into the Renaissance era. Your tour will continue to the symbolic town of Siena, famous for its splendid examples of Gothic architecture and its Palio horse race, an annual tradition. Visit the intriguing Piazza del Campo, the Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia. Next, head to Piazza del Duomo and admire the imposing Cathedral, one of the finest achievements of Italian Gothic architecture. Next, you will head to San Gimignano, famous for its white wine - the world renowned Vernaccia. Finally, we will spend some time in the heart of Chianti, with its picture-perfect landscapes. After learning the secrets of the Chianti wine production process, indulge in a tasting of the high quality wines, local snacks, and fresh olive oils. We will continue then to Rome filled with memories of a marvelous day in the history and beauty of Tuscany. Arrival in Rome and check in at the hotel. Overnight. (B)

 Breakfast at the hotel. Your journey through time will bring you to the ruins of the Roman Empire, allowing you to discover the largest open-air museum in the world. The tour will start on the top of Oppian Hill, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine, two of the world's most significant examples of Roman architecture. Once you enter the Colosseum, your expert guide will vividly bring to life the events and emotion of "the greatest show of all time”. Imagine the roars of the lions and the ovations of the crowd, as if you were the heroic gladiators who once fought for eternal glory (and for their life) in the arena. Your guide will lead you throughout the Colosseum. The next stage of the tour will lead you to the majestic Arch of Constantine, where your guide will share local legends of the triumphal marches of armies that nourished the ego of the Emperors centuries ago. Then, continue along the Sacred Way, admiring the ruins of temples in the heart of the Imperial Forum. In the afternoon visit the Vatican City at your own pace. Its Museum houses one of the largest and most valuable art collections in the world and one of the most important places of universal art: the Sistine Chapel. Here you will enjoy in ecstasy an extraordinary collection of frescoes where those left to us in perpetuity by the genius of Michelangelo stand out, highlighting probably one of the most popular pictorial scenes in the history of art: the "Creation of Adam" and "The Last Judgement". As you finish your visit, continue to the St. Peter's Basilica that stands as a symbol of religious and architectural magnificence, housing renowned artworks such as Michelangelo's iconic Pietà and the impressive dome itself. Back to the hotel. Overnight. (B)

Breakfast at the Hotel. As you bid arrivederci to the eternal allure of Rome, may your heart carry the echoes of timeless beauty, cultural riches, and cherished moments, marking the end of a journey that leaves you with memories to last a lifetime. On time transfer to the airport for your flight back home. After check-in at the airport, end of our services. (B)

Trip includes

Included

 15 nights in selected hotels (3*** or 4****) including breakfast.

Hotel

Professional local tour guides

Guiding Method
Fully guided

English

including breakfast

Private transfers airport/hotel/airport
Transfers and excursions in private bus.

Coach / BusMini-coachPrivate Vehicle

Walking food tour in Madrid
Full day guided tour in Segovia and Avila
Guided city tour in Burgos, San Sebastian, Bordeaux, Paris , Würzburg, Venice, Florence and with professional local tour guides.
 Guided tour to Chenonceaux and Chambord
PM River cruise on the Seine River (Paris)
Half day tour to Versailles Palais
Ride along the Roamantic Road
Visit the Neuwschwanstein Castle
Full day guided tour in Toscana incl. Pisa, St Gimigiano, Siena and wine tasting in Chianti
Imperial Rome Tour with Coloseum
Visit the Vatican Museums

Excluded

 International or national flights

Insurance

Train tickets in the routes detailed in the itinerary
International or national flights
Transfer from Hotel to the train stations
Personal expenses
Tips for drivers, guides and porters 
Meals and drinks not mentioned here.
Health insurance and others

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