European Expedition
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Visit 8 Countries
15 Days from R9100
Including : France, Switzerland, Germany, Netherlands, Vatican City, Italy, Belgium & Austria...
 
explore europe
explore europe
Tour Itinerary
Think Full Monty in two weeks! Pack your bags for an expedition of traveling and sightseeing in the best of Europe - it doesn't get better than this on a budget! You'll see the best and explore the best sightseeing, exploring, partying and everything that contributes to you having the time of your life without breaking the back.

Day 1: Amsterdam - Tours begins
Arrive in Amsterdam and make your way to our accommodation site where you will meet up with the rest of the tour group (10:00pm) for the beginning of your European Blitz Experience! Your tour will start by seeing the Dutch countryside, with a visit to a cheese farm, where you'll also experience how traditional clogs are made and the Dutch won't let you leave before you realise there is more to cheese than cheddar. We then visit the windmill village of Zaanse Schans, famous for the making of wooden shoes or "klompe", before we visit the little fishing village of Volendam. From the countryside, we make our way into the city, for an afternoon walking tour of the world famous Amsterdam "Red Light District" , which leaves the afternoon free to explore the canals, or Anne Frank House, Dam Square, Van Gogh Museum or maybe a bicycle tour… and the night open to paint the town red!
(Overnight in Multi-share hostel)

(Dinner)

Day 2: Amsterdam to the Rhine Valley
There is only one way to see the Rhine Valley, and that is from the deck of a River boat! Enjoy a refreshing German beer as you cruise down the Rhine River down the Rhine Valley before we head to our accommodation. Sights along the way include; the most concentrated stretch of castles in Europe, vineyards, cliffs and medieval German towns. After a tasty German dinner, you will have time to explore the many quaint pubs in and around the village.
(Overnight in Multi-share hostel)

(Breakfast and Dinner)

Day 3: Rhine Valley to Switzerland
We depart Germany this morning for Switzerland and its glorious mountain peaks in the Jungfrau region. Enjoy the truly spectacular drive into the breathe taking Swiss Alps where you will be spoilt for mystical beauty in the foot of the mountain village in the heart of the Grindlewald region.
(Overnight in Multi-share hostel)

(Breakfast and Dinner)

Day 4: Jungfrau, Swiss Alps
Enjoy a free day to explore and take in the spectacular local scenery. One of the 'must see' highlights of this tour, is to opt to travel to the 'Top of Europe' – Jungfraujoch. The views will leave you breathless (and that isn't because of the high altitude). This 4000m glacier is has a beauty all of its own, and the combination of ice, snow, rock and epic views will stay with you for life. There is snow all year round, so you can make a snow man or have a snowball fight in the middle of summer!
(Overnight in Multi-share hostel)

(Breakfast)

Day 5: Switzerland to Venice
Today we head for Italy and say good bye to the majestic Swiss Alps. As we make our way to one of Europe's most romantic cities the scenery on the mountain pass along the way is truly spectacular. In Venice, the city which stretches across 117 islands, you will begin your evening with a locally guided walking tour, learning why Venice is such a 'must see' destination. You can see the Rialto Bridge, St Mark's Square, the Bridge of Sighs and the Doge's Palace. Afterwards, indulge in an espresso in one of many plazas, relax in a gondola or explore and get lost within this a"mazing" city on water.
(Overnight Campsite Bungalows and Chalets)

(Breakfast)

Day 6: Venice 
A free day to explore Venice on your own. We recommend a visiting one of the famous art galleries or checking out some of the Islands by vaporetto(ferry). Alternatively you can simply relax and soak up the sun on the sandy beaches at Lido or watch a glass blowing/ lace making demonstration on Murano/Burano Islands.
(Overnight Campsite Bungalows/Chalets)

(Breakfast)

Day 7: Venice to Rome
We depart Venice and continue south to Rome. Be prepared to be amazed at the history and culture which will unfold in front of your eyes. Join us after lunch for a local guided walking tour combining ancient wonders with Renaissance master pieces, make sure capture the moment at the Spanish steps, en-route throwing your lucky penny into the Trevi Fountain, as we head past the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Roman Forum and end at the Colosseum, but be sure to make sure a Viking doesn't catch you snapping him without a generous offering!
(Overnight resort bungalow)
(Breakfast)

Day 8: Rome
This is your free day to Explore the Ancient City of Rome and the Vatican City - with an area of only 44 hectares, is officially the smallest country in the world, let alone Europe!. Head to the opera, grab a slice of pizza, try some regional wine, or banter with the locals. The day is yours to do with as you please. Do as the Romans do! But don't forget the camera.
(Overnight resort bungalow)
(Breakfast and Dinner)

Day 9: Rome to Tuscany
We leave the Italian capital to head towards the birth place of the Renaissance: Florence. Upon arrival to this famous town we will be treated to a local guided tour where you will be able to catch a glimpse of the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria (the original location of Michelangelo's 'David' statue), Ponte Vecchio and Santa Croce Basilica. After our free time in Florence we head over to our accommodation in Tuscany where we conclude the day with an authentic Italian meal. Buon appetito! Afterwards you can work it off by "throwing some shapes" at the local disco.
(Overnight Campsite Bungalows and Chalets)
(Breakfast and Dinner)

Day 10: Tuscany to French Riviera
As we drive along the coast, we stop at the world famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, where you can try your luck at "holding up" one of the tallest bell towers in Europe! As we head into the picturesque coast of the beautiful South of France, we stop at the famous Fragonard perfumery and check into our accommodation in the French Riviera before the party begins in style… so be sure to pack your Armani suit!
(Overnight in Multi-share hostel)

(Breakfast)

Day 11: French Riviera
As the saying goes: "It is always nice in Nice". Todays a free day, A great day to rub shoulders with the rich and famous, get spotted in a café on the streets of Nice, then soak up some rays on the beach, sipping cocktails in the city where there's sun 364 days a year… and be sure to bring your dancing shoes as this is sure to be a night filled with glitz and glamour in the town of Monaco or Monte Carlo.
(Overnight in Multi-share hostel)

(Breakfast)

Day 12: French Riviera to Avignon
As we drive along the coast, we stop at the world famous UNESCO World Heritage site in Arles before continuing into Pont du Gard to see the famous 2000 year old Roman aqua duc, as we head into the beautiful fortified town of Avignon and see the Papal Palace. Tonight we have dinner in the Old town in Avignon.
(Overnight in Multi-share hostel)
(Breakfast)

Day 13: Avignon to Paris
Bonjour Paris! Once we arrive in one of the worlds' most cosmopolitan cities, Paris, you will be checked in to your accommodation and before we head out to explore the 'City of Romance, Love and Lights' for a fun filled evening in the cradle of Bohemian Paris, the Montmartre, which includes a viewing of the Sacre Coeur and exploring the nightlife surrounding the Moulin Rouge
(Overnight Multishare Hostel)
(Breakfast)

Day 14: Paris
Start the day with a fun filled walking tour of Paris, where you will come to understand why this city is so famous. Commencing at the Opera House, the walking tour includes sights of the famous Louvre Museum glass pyramids, a taste of the Eiffel tower, before we end at the Notre Dame, described as a 'gothic masterpiece' and one of the most famous cathedrals in the world, also the most visited landmark in Paris. With the afternoon free to explore on your own, head to the Latin Quarter for a spot of lunch if you wish, or continue with sightseeing. We recommend taking the scenic boat cruise down the Seine River where you will arrive in front of the Eiffel Tower, where you can explore the fabulous view from the top!
(Overnight Multishare Hostel)
(Breakfast)

Day 15: Paris to Amsterdam
The last day of your European tour already! After breakfast, it's back to Amsterdam with a stop for lunch in Belgium. We make our way through the ancient city of Bruges, famous for many things, including beer and chocolates. This last part of your journey is your last chance to swap numbers and contact details with all of your new found friends and tour buddies, before you return to the Netherlands where your tour will end.
(Breakfast)

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What's Included
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14 Nights in multi-share accommodation (Maximum of 6 people). Resort style bungalows, hostels and chalets.
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Breakfast (B) and Dinners (D) included in your food fund – as per itinerary.
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NEW for 2012:Public transport used during sightseeing tours is now included. (Not on free days)
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Modern air-conditioned motorcoach with reclining seats.
expat coach
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Local taxes, baggage handling fees, hotel tips, service charges & ferry crossings.
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Experienced tour leader
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Free Expat Explore tour souvenir.
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Free Expat Explore Info Guide Book.
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Sight seeing as described.
Dates and Rates 2012
Excludes Compulsory Food Fund: R 1050 (?)
Tour prices are structured in the same way as budget airlines. The first seats are the cheapest but the prices will increase up to the normal rate as bookings are made. So book early!
Click on any dates below to view or book the live tour dates now. (View full departure and return dates)
  
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Book extra nights in Amsterdam, before or after your tour. Only R 350 per person, per night based on twin share.  Single room R450. Please contact the office for details: bookings@expatexplore.com

Book airport transfers in Amsterdam, before or after your tour. Only €50 per 4 seater taxi (smallest size taxi available) or €60 per 6 seater taxi (largest size taxi available), for a single journey.  To book, please contact Jan de Wit Taxi’s on  info@jandewitgroup.comwith the following: Tour date and start date, number of people, flight number and time, and full contact details including your mobile number.  Please don’t forget to update the transfer company if airline schedule changes.  Please pay the driver €’s cash on the day.    
Day 1: An evening in Paris
Day 3 & 4: Explore the Swiss Alps
Day 2: A free day to explore the sights of Paris.
Day 11: Wooden shoes in Zaanse Schans
Day 7: A free day to explore the sights of Rome.