Essential Europe - 9 Days

• Italy
• Switzerland
• France

DAY 1

Welcome to Rome!

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

DAY 2

Explore more of Rome with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.

The Papal City

Explore the Papal City for a guided visit of the extensive Vatican Museums. Lift your eyes to the heavens in the Sistine Chapel to marvel at Michelangelo¿s masterpiece ceiling fresco, then continue to St. Peter¿s Square to see the breathtaking St. Peter¿s Basilica. Stroll along the Via della Conciliazione to admire Castel Sant'Angelo, the former Papal Fortress.

Rome of the Caesars

Time travel to ancient Rome! Stand in the Colosseum and let your imagination be captured by stories of gladiator games and emperor reigns. Delve deeper into the Rome of the Caesars with a guided walk through the Roman Forum, once the beating heart of the Roman Empire; see the Palatine Hill considered to be the birthplace of Rome.

DAY 3

Leave the hustle and bustle of Rome behind as you relax for a scenic drive past the olive groves and vineyards that extend over the rolling green hills of Umbria and Tuscany. Arrive in Florence, one of Italy’s most celebrated cities. Meet your Local Guide for a visit of the Academy of Fine Arts, to see Michelangelo’s David statue, followed by a walk through the historic center, stopping to admire and learn more about the cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the massive bronze doors of the Baptistry’s “Gates of Paradise,” and the sculptures of Signoria Square. This afternoon free time to explore more of Florence “La bella.”

TOUR HIGHILIGHT

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.

DAY 4

Today cross the Apennine Mountains and River Po to reach Venice. On arrival take a private boat ride along the Giudecca Canal. Prepare for breath taking views as you sail in front of the entrance to St Mark’s Square. Disembark for an orientation walk to St. Mark’s Square and a noted vetreria to meet a local glassblower and learn how the world-famous Murano glass is created. After some free time to explore independently, Globus Local Favorite enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before traveling like a VIP with a private water taxi ride along the Grand Canal.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT

NATURAL WONDERS Explore Iguassu National Park (Brazilian side) and walk the pathways skirting the Falls and be on the lookout for the locals who call this protected area home like toucans, agoutis, giant otters, anteaters, tapir, and even jaguars!

DAY 5

Today leave Italy and cross the border into Switzerland. Arrive in Bellinzona and Globus Local Favorite take the elevator to the Courtyard of Castelgrande where you will savor a light lunch of local specialties accompanied by the Merlot wine for which the Ticino area is famous. Later, en-route to Lucerne, enjoy the stunning mountain scenery of the Swiss Alps interrupted only by the St. Gotthard Road tunnel.

DAY 6

This morning, join a walking tour to see the highlights of Lucerne. Stop to admire the Lion Monument, a moving rock relief that Mark Twain called the “saddest sculpture in the world,” and the 14th century Chapel Bridge that crosses the River Reuss from the Altstadt (old town). The rest of the day and evening are free for you to get better acquainted with this alpine gem.

DAY 7

Drive to the medieval city of Basel, the Swiss city located on the French and German borders and straddling the River Rhine. Board a high-speed TGV train to Paris. Relax and watch the French countryside pass by. Arrive in Paris this afternoon giving you plenty of time to get acquainted with this iconic city.*

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.

DAY 8

The morning is yours to either explore independently or join an optional excursion. Your sightseeing this afternoon is composed of a guided walk to discover one of Paris’s iconic quarters. Later, enjoy a farewell dinner cruise on the River Seine, with incredible sights of celebrated landmarks.*

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.

DAY 9

Safe travels until we meet again!

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

Special Features included in this Tour:
• Globus Choice excursions in Rome − included in your tour with your choice of a guided walking tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel or a guided walking tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum
• Guided walking tour in Florence includes a visit to the Academy of Fine Arts to see Michelangelo’s David statue
• Private Venice Canal boat ride, orientation walk, and glass blowing demonstration
•  Dinner at a local Venice restaurant followed by a private water-taxi ride along the Grand Canal
• Visit the  Courtyard of Castelgrande for a light lunch paired with wine
• Walking tour of Lucerne, see the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge
• Ride a high speed TGV train from Basel to Paris
• Guided walking tour in Paris to discover one of Paris’s iconic quarters
• Scenic dinner cruise on the Seine River

World Heritage Sites are designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for having cultural, historical, scientific or other form of significance. The sites are judged to contain cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity.

The following UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be seen or visited on this vacation:

• Defensive Wall and Ramparts of the Market-Town of Bellinzona
• Historic Centre of Florence
• Historic Centre of Rome
• Paris Banks of the Seine
• Vatican City
• Venice and its Lagoon

With GLOBUS, there’s no better way to get to know your destination than through the eyes of a Tour Director. We’d like you to meet one of our Tour Directors, who average over a decade of experience and are representative of the type of expert that will be with you on your vacation.

CHRIS HEATHERLEY

Escorting tours for more than 20 years

After a brief foray into teaching, my love of travel coupled with a keen interest in history and languages drew me to the role of Tour Director. I find it immensely satisfying to see each individual traveler come to his or her own understanding of the European scene, whilst enjoying the camaraderie of the group experience. Don't forget, travel is one of the few things you buy that makes you richer, with new experiences, insights, understandings and fresh perspectives. As members of the tour, not only do we discover the traditions of the countries we travel through, yet also we learn more about ourselves and our common humanity.

Rome

Radisson Blu Rome

• WiFi/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.

HOTEL AMENITIES

Spa ServicesBusiness Center, Fitness Room, Elevator, Laundry Available, Concierge desk, Restaurant On-Site, Free WiFi, Currency Exchange, Luggage Storage, Bar/Lounge, Hot Tub

ROOM FEATURES

Coffee Maker, Desk, Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, Mini-bar, Iron/Ironing Board, In-Room Safe, Room Service, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Air Conditioning (Seasonal), Climate Control, Complimentary Toiletries, Air Conditioning

Florence

Una Hotel Vittoria

• WiFi/First-Class

This is a contemporary designed hotel located in the historic San Frediano district, offering a peaceful retreat and just a short distance from the bustling heart of Florence. This hotel offers a tranquil setting while still being conveniently close to the Arno River and the city center and boasts a stylish and modern design, evident in its common areas. All 84 air-conditioned guest rooms, designed with a focus on comfort and style, are equipped with modern amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Savor the chef¿s delicious Tuscan and international cuisine in the in-site restaurant, or sip on a cocktail in the lounge bar or courtyard.

HOTEL AMENITIES

Business Center, Elevator, Laundry Available, Concierge desk, Restaurant On-Site, Free WiFi, Currency Exchange, Luggage Storage, Bar/Lounge
ROOM FEATURES

Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, Mini-bar, Room Service, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Climate Control, Complimentary Toiletries, Air Conditioning

Venice

Leonardo Royal

• WiFi/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.

HOTEL AMENITIES

Business Center, Fitness Room, Elevator, Laundry Available, Concierge desk, Restaurant On-Site, Free WiFi, Luggage Storage, Bar/Lounge, Parking/Valet

ROOM FEATURES

Coffee Maker, Non-smoking Rooms, Desk, Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, Mini-bar, Iron/Ironing Board, In-Room Safe, Room Service, Wake-Up Calls, Window Opens, Alarm Clock, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Complimentary Toiletries, Disabled Access / Rooms, Air Conditioning

Ambasciatori at Mestre

• WiFi/First-Class

Positioned on the mainland in the town of Mestre, facing the Venetian cluster of islands, a short walk from Mestre train station and town center. Facilities in this mid-range 93-room property include a fitness room, à la carte restaurant, pleasant lounge bar and Free Wi-Fi access.

HOTEL AMENITIES

Business Center, Fitness Room, Elevator, Laundry Available, Concierge desk, Restaurant On-Site, Free WiFi, Luggage Storage, Bar/Lounge

ROOM FEATURES

Non-smoking Rooms, Desk, Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, Mini-bar, Smoking Rooms, In-Room Safe, Room Service, Wake-Up Calls, Window Opens, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Air Conditioning (Seasonal), Climate Control, Complimentary Toiletries, Disabled Access / Rooms, Air Conditioning

Lucerne

Grand Hotel Europe

Haldenstr. 59 Lucerne Switzerland

• WiFi

• First-Class

  Hotel as shown or similar

A classical 19th century 169 room property. This hotel offers a wonderful contrast of old charm with modern interior design and has a beautiful garden to enhance your stay. Wi-Fi access is available throughout the hotel with a fee (payable locally). The main dining room is opulently decorated serving traditional Swiss dishes and there is also a lounge and terrace area with a bar service.

HOTEL AMENITIES

Business Center, Elevator, Laundry Available, Concierge desk, Restaurant On-Site, Currency Exchange, Luggage Storage, Bar/Lounge, Parking/Valet

ROOM FEATURES

Complimentary Newspaper, Desk, Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, In-Room Safe, Room Service, Wake-Up Calls, Window Opens, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Complimentary Toiletries

Paris

Les Jardins du Marais

• WiFi/SuperiorFirst-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.

HOTEL AMENITIES

Business Center, Fitness Room, ATM, Elevator, Laundry Available, Concierge desk, Restaurant On-Site, Free WiFi, Luggage Storage, Bar/Lounge, Parking/Valet

ROOM FEATURES

Coffee Maker, Non-smoking Rooms, Desk, Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, Mini-bar, Smoking Rooms, Iron/Ironing Board, In-Room Safe, Room Service, Wake-Up Calls, Window Opens, Alarm Clock, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Air Conditioning (Seasonal), Climate Control, Complimentary Toiletries, Disabled Access / Rooms, Air Conditioning

From US$ 4,124

*prices per person, based on double occupancy for 5 April 2026 departure

*Contact Us for Dates and Prices

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