Europe’s Classic Fairytale Journey

Breakfast at the hotel. Say goodbye to Bruges and hello to Ghent. The fourth-largest city in Belgium, Ghent is a beautiful and compact pedestrian paradise. While on a walking tour, take in the medieval architecture that lends this stunning city an Old-World charm. See the stone Sintmichielsbrug, or Saint Michael’s Bridge, as well as the Ghent Belfry, some of the city center’s major landmarks. In order to see one of Jan van Eyck’s most famous works, you’ll have to do an optional tour of Sint Baafscatedraal* that many consider to be the main highlight of the city.

Finally, spend the afternoon in Brussels, the Belgian capital. Unlike every other city on this tour, Brussels is predominantly French-speaking, but officially bilingual with Dutch. The home of such famous products as Belgian waffles and Belgian chocolate, Brussels is a culinary delight. Take a tour of the city center, visiting the Grand Palace and the famous Manneken Pis statue. Overnight in Brussels.

*Optional tour or Sint Baafscatedraal: “The Mysterious Lamb” is an altarpiece made up of twelve panels. This famous work by Jan van Eyck is the centerpiece of this medieval cathedral, and narrowly escaped destruction by the Nazis in World War II. This activity will be after the included city tour.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you have an entire day to immerse yourself in the enchanting city of Brussels, where historic architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine await your discovery. Stroll through its charming streets, visit iconic landmarks, and savor local delicacies at your leisure. For those seeking a delightful twist, we also offer an optional Chocolate Museum Visit with Workshop* in the heart of the city, where you can indulge in the rich flavors of authentic Belgian chocolate. Overnight in Brussels.

*Optional Chocolate Museum Visit with Workshop Experience: Unleash your creativity as you craft your own personalized chocolate tablets with guidance from a professional chocolatier. Once you’ve mastered the art of chocolate-making in the workshop, immerse yourself in the world of chocolate at the Choco-Story Brussels museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits with an audio guide at your own pace.

Breakfast at the hotel. Self-transfer to the train station to catch your train to Frankfurt. Arrive in Frankfurt and self-transfer to the hotel. The city is yours to explore for the rest of the day. A global financial hub with a rich history, you can take in Frankfurt's futuristic skyline, try an authentic Frankfurter sausage, and wander through the Old Town. Afterward, you’ll want to rest up for a full itinerary the following day. Overnight stay in Frankfurt.

Breakfast at the hotel. Meet your tour leader and head to the port* to board a water cruise along the Rhine River. Before setting sail, you'll have free time to explore the picturesque town or put your inner wine connoisseur to the test by sampling regional rieslings.

Next, it’s all aboard for an unforgettable trip through the Rhine Valley (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). After some free time for lunch, you'll transfer to Heidelberg and check into your hotel. Overnight stay in Heidelberg.

*Depending on the time of year, you’ll transfer to either the port of Rudesheim or the port of St. Goar. 

Breakfast at the hotel. The day begins with a city tour of the historic Heidelberg. In between exploring the lively Marktplatz in the center, standing on the Old Bridge over the Neckar, and admiring half-timbered houses, you'll have views of Heidelberg Castle*. Enjoy some free time to wander at your own pace and grab lunch (Maultaschen, a sort of German take on ravioli, is a must!).

A scenic transfer to Rothenburg. Feel like you've been transported back to the Middle Ages on a guided city tour of Rothenburg. The cobblestone streets, quaint squares, and ancient town walls will show you why it’s one of the most popular destinations along the German Romantic Road. Overnight stay in Rothenburg.

*Optional visit to Heidelberg Castle: Visit the stately palace and see the city from a different perspective.

Breakfast at the hotel. A day* of discovering castles lies ahead. Journey to Hohenschwangau, a small town home to the centuries-old Hohenschwangau Castle. Enjoy free time to explore the town and have lunch. Next, it’s on to Neuschwanstein Castle, an iconic landmark nestled in the foothills of the Alps.

Commissioned by King Ludwig II, its towers, frescoes depicting medieval legends, turrets, and throne room are just a glimpse of the castle’s splendor. And the tour of Neuschwanstein Castle is sure to be one of the most memorable moments of the trip, where travelers can live out a fantasy. Transfer to Munich and check into your hotel. Overnight stay in Munich.

*Please note: Final day with the tour leader.

Breakfast at the hotel. The day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. In a modern city with timeless charm like Munich, there's plenty to see and do.

Stroll through the streets lined with examples of Brutalism and Art Nouveau, or take an optional hop-on, hop-off bus tour*—a great way to check off the main attractions on your Munich wishlist. Overnight stay in Munich.

*Optional hop-on, hop-off bus tour: Move around Munich with ease and in comfort for a flexible way to explore the city.

Breakfast at the hotel. Spend the day experiencing more of Munich. Football fans might want to visit the stadium, whereas beer lovers won’t want to miss tasting a quality Bavarian brew. Others might prefer to take a day trip to Salzburg* for a picture-perfect view. Overnight stay in Munich.

*Optional Salzburg and the Lake District tour: A full-day tour of Salzburg offers a glimpse into Austria's UNESCO World Heritage city.