Europe is one of the most diverse and extraordinary continents in the world, full of amazing spectacles, grand monuments, rich histories, and incredibly scenic vistas. From the snow capped mountains and lush meadows Switzerland, to the ancient architecture of Rome, the trendy and glamorous streets of Paris, the modern and olden-charm of Brussels, the art and learning of Florence, the liberal and beautiful city of Amsterdam, the leaning tower of Pisa, the museums and culture of the Vatican city, the royal grandeur of London, and the ancient university town of Heidelberg, will all entrance and enamour you with their unique histories and incomparable beauty.
INCLUSIONS:
Stay at handpicked hotels chosen with your comfort and convenience of location in mind
Professional and experienced tour directors
Travel in comfort aboard climate-controlled luxury coaches.
Enjoy extended continental breakfasts every morning
Enjoy Indian lunches and dinners in Mainland Europe
Guided panoramic city tour of London including: Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, Regent Street, Oxford Street, Marble Arch, Hyde Park, Regent Park, Trafalgar Square, the Strand, the Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, Tower of London, the Tower Bridge. St. Paul's Cathedral, White Hall and 10 Downing Street - the Prime Minister's residence
Experience the Original channel crossing on a cruise which takes you OVER the English Channel in a leisurely and relaxed way- a traditional sailing from the cliffs of Dover to the doorstep of Europe on a very famous crossing.
Orientation tour of Brussels - the capital of EU, including: Grand Place and its famous guild houses, the City Museum, the Town Hall, the house of the Dukes of Brabant, Manneken Pis the symbol of Brussels. See the Royal Palace, the Royal Park, the Palace of Justice, and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Photo-stop at the Atomium in Brussels
Visit Madurodam - the beautiful miniature city of Holland at The Hague, in the Netherlands
Visit a traditional Dutch wooden shoe factory and experience a special demonstration.
Enjoy a photo stop at one of the unique windmills of the Netherlands
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam for breathtaking views of the city
Visit the magnificent Cologne Cathedral - a UNESCO world heritage site.
Experience a cruise on the river Rhine, admiring the medieval castles and lovely vineyards along the river banks.
Orientation tour of Heidelberg, including: the Rathaus, Carl Theodore Bridge, Market Square, Church of the Holy Spirit, the Heidelberg University and the Heidelberg Castle
Orientation tour of Innsbruck, including: the Golden Roof, St Anne's Column, Imperial Palace, Stadtturm, Helblinghaus, and the Triumphal Arch
Visit to Swarovski Crystal Museum and showroom at Wattens, near Innsbruck
Enjoy a private water-taxi ride in Venice
Orientation tour of Venice, including: Saint Mark's Square, Bridge of Sighs, Ducale Palace, Campanile, and Saint Mark's Basilica
Visit to Murano glass-factory
Walking tour of Florence: visiting the Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore, seeing the Campanile & Baptistry, & the Duomo Square, Piazza Del Signoria, Palazzio Vecchio and the Fountain of Neptune.
Drive to Piazzale Michaelangelo, for a bird's eye view of Florence
Guided city tour of Rome, including: Colosseum, Arc of Constantine, Roman Forum, Caesar's Forum, Venice Square, Venice Palace, Victor Emmanuel Monument, Church of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Trevi Fountain
We visit the Vatican City including: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, and St. Peter's Square.
Visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Cathedral and the Baptistery
3 nights' accommodation in scenic Switzerland.
City tour of Paris.
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Paris from the 3rd and the topmost level of the Eiffel Tower.
River Seine Cruise for unique views of Parist
Pay the tour cost in 6 monthly installments at 0% interest
ITINERARY
DAY 1: LONDON - ROYAL CITY
Arrive in London to a warm welcome. A charming city with a royal heritage, incredible wealth of history, culture and exciting attractions, there is no better place than London to begin this classic tour. Upon arrival, embark on a guided city tour of London, which will include sights as Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, Regent Street, Oxford Street, Marble Arch, Hyde Park, Regent Park, Trafalgar Square, The Strand, The Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, White Hall and 10 Downing Street (the Prime Minister's residence).
You can also embark on our optional ride atop the famous London Eye, situated in the heart of London, from where you can get amazing panoramic views of the city, and such sights as: Westminster Bridge, the Victoria Embankment, the Saatchi Gallery and County Hall
Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel.
Meals: Dinner
DAY 2: ONTO BRUSSELS ORIENTATION TOUR
After enjoying breakfast, experience the Original channel crossing on a cruise which takes you over the English Channel in a leisurely and relaxed way- a traditional sailing from the cliffs of Dover to the doorstep of Europe on a very famous crossing. Upon arrival in Brussels, begin your orientation tour, which will include sights such as Grand Place and its famous guild houses, City Museum, Town Hall, House of the Dukes of Brabant, Manneken Pis, Royal Palace, Royal Park, Palace of Justice and the Museum of Fine Arts. Thereafter, take a photo stop at the Atomium. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
DAY 3: THE NETHERLANDS
After breakfast today, we transfer to Amsterdam, the financial & cultural capital of The Netherlands. The best way to experience Amsterdam is on a traditional canal cruise. These glass-topped boats offer unobstructed views of the splendour of Amsterdam. After the cruise, visit one of the most famous wooden shoe factories of Holland and witness a demonstration of the history, traditions and the making of authentic Dutch wooden shoes. After the demonstration, take a photo stop at a windmill, one of the most distinctive sights of The Netherlands. Later, visit Madurodam, which is a beautiful miniature model of a typical Dutch town, downsized in the ratio of 1:25. It also contains many famous miniature landmarks, which are absolute copies of the real ones. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
DAY 4: COLOGNE, RHINE CRUISE & HEIDELBERG
After a scrumptious breakfast today, drive off to Cologne to visit the city's UNESCO World Heritage site, the Cologne Cathedral. It is also one of Europe's most spectacular cathedrals and has to its credit being the largest Gothic cathedral north of The Alps. The twin spires (standing 157 metres tall) and the beautiful stained glass windows are the highlights of this cathedral. The Cologne Cathedral also has the reputation of being the most visited tourist monument in Germany. Thereafter, proceed on a cruise on the River Rhine and witness medieval castles and lovely vineyards along its banks. After the cruise ends, proceed to the university town of Heidelberg. Upon arrival, embark on a walking tour of the city and walk by sights such as the Rathaus, the Carl Theodore Bridge, the Market Square, the Church of the Holy Spirit and the Heidelberg University. Finally, take a stop at the Kornplatz to admire incredible views of the imposing Heidelberg Castle and conclude this fun-filled day with a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
DAY 5: INNSBRUCK - ORIENTATION TOUR & VISIT TO THE SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL MUSEUM & SHOWROO
After a breakfast today, proceed to Innsbruck, which is the capital of Tyrol. The alpine scenery of Innsbruck together with its charming meadows set against snowy peaks is a sight to behold. Nestled amidst snow capped mountains, the city of Innsbruck is spread out along the banks of the River Inn. Upon arrival, proceed on an orientation tour of Innsbruck seeing such sights as Goldenes Dachl - Golden Roof, Hofburg, Hofkirsche, St. Anne's Column, Stadtturm, Triumphpforte and Helblinghaus.
Later proceed to the world-famous Swarovski Crystal Museum & Showroom at Wattens to take a look at the amazing collection of precision-cut lead crystal glass and other related products. You can admire and shop here to your heart's delight, amongst the largest exhibits of the Swarovski Crystal collection.
Return to the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
DAY 6: VENICE - CITY OF CANALS & OPTIONAL GONDOLA RIDE
After enjoying breakfast, depart for Venice, which is known as the Queen of the Adriatic. Also fondly called La Serenissima, Venice is built on 180 islands that are connected by over 400 bridges, with hundreds of canals criss-crossing the town. For more than a thousand years, the city was one of the most enduring mercantile sea powers on Earth. Sail in a special water taxi to the St. Marks Square, which is considered to be one of the world's most beautiful squares with its boutiques, traditional cafes, and historic buildings. On your city tour see incredible sites such as the Bridge of Sighs, the Ducale Palace, St. Mark's Basilica, the Clock tower and the Murano Glass showroom which are part of this romantic city.
Enjoy a memorable experience with the optional Gondola ride over the canals of Venice through the smaller canals for a true picture of this romantic city.
After exploring the city of Venice, return to the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
DAY 7: FLORENCE - THE JEWEL OF RENAISSANCE
After enjoying breakfast, proceed to Florence. Upon arrival, embark on a walking tour of the city, seeing such sights as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Campanile and Baptistery. Enjoy some free time in Piazza Della Signoria to view Palazzio Vecchio, the Loggia Dei Lanzi and the Fountain of Neptune. Other sights on the tour include the various sculptures that make Florence a virtual open air museum, the courtyard of the Uffizi gallery and Ponte Vecchio, which is the oldest and the most famous bridge in Florence. Thereafter, drive to Piazzale Michelangelo for a breathtaking bird's eye view of Florence
Hereafter, drive on to the eternal city of Rome, which has been a site of major historic events and has also been the cultural centre of Europe for more than one and a half millennia. Check-in to the hotel in the evening for a comfortable overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
DAY 8: ROME CITY TOUR & VISIT TO THE VATICAN CITY
After a delectable breakfast, embark on a guided city tour of Rome and witness sights such as the Colosseum, Arc of Constantine, Roman Forum and Caesar's Forum. Also drive past the Venice Square. Move on to visit the Trevi Fountain, which is considered to be the most beautiful fountain of Rome Thereafter, drive past Palatino hill to witness the beautiful church of Santa Maria Maggiore.
After the incredible Rome experience, visit the Vatican City, which is also the smallest country in the world. Begin a guided tour of the Vatican starting with the Vatican Museums, which probably houses the world's greatest collection of art. The tour will culminate with a visit to the exquisite Sistine Chapel, which is best known for its outstanding frescoes on the ceiling and altar walls. Thereafter,visit the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica, the most famous Church of the Christian world. Finally, return to the hotel in the evening for a comfortable overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
DAY 9: LEANING TOWER OF PISA & ONTO SWITZERLAND
After a scrumptious breakfast, we visit the historic university city of Pisa. Pisa is famous for its architectural beauty. Upon arrival, visit the Campo Dei Miracoli and enjoy stunning views of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Cathedral and the Baptistery of Pisa.
Later continue your journey to arrive in Switzerland, a landlocked country in the cultural and geographical heart of Europe. Renowned for its snow-capped Alps, lush green meadows and its fresh water lakes, the prosperous country of Switzerland has a distinct character and dynamism. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
DAY 10: SWITZERLAND (OPTIONAL TOUR OF JUNGFRAUJOCH, INTERLAKEN WITH INDIAN LUNCH)
After breakfast today, enjoy the day at leisure in the serene and soothing environs of Switzerland OR make use of the free time to embark on an optional tour to visit Jungfraujoch, often referred to as the Top of Europe, Interlaken and the famous Trummelbach Falls. Jungfraujoch makes for a memorable encounter with snow and ice, and has all it takes to become the 'high point' of any tour of Europe. Tourists are often amazed at the scenic splendour they witness from the 'Cog-Wheel' train, which takes you to a height of 11333 feet to reach Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in the world! The Cog-Wheel train is one of the best, most incredible train journeys in the world. The views of Switzerland from atop the mountain are amazingly panoramic and breathtaking. Later on, drive to Interlaken, which is a world famous Swiss town located in the Bernese Oberland Mountains between the lakes of Thun and Brienz. After enjoying some leisurely time in the town.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
DAY 11: OPTIONAL MT. TITLIS WITH ICE FLYER, LUNCH & ORIENTATION TOUR OF LUCERNE
After breakfast, you will have the option to taste the adventure that is Mt. Titlis. On a hair-raising and unforgettable ride to the top, 45 minutes long, you will switch three different cable cars, and be amazed as the scenery changes from green meadows and scenic lakes to snow clad mountains. The last leg of the ride is on the famous Rotair, which is the world's first revolving cable car, on which you will get an incredibly panoramic view of the surrounding glaciers, mountains, and scenery. You will also enjoy a thrilling ride on the famous Ice Flyer (weather permitting). Later, you will proceed to Lucerne, the beautiful city located at the northern tip of Lake Lucerne, where you will see the Lion Monument, Kapellbrucke and the Spreuerbrucke. In the evening, you shall proceed to Geneva - the most orderly and serene of all major European cities - where you shall spend the night in the comfort of your hotel room.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
DAY 12: GENEVA OPTIONAL ORIENTATION TOUR & ONTO PARIS
OPTIONAL: LE-LIDO SHOW AND ILLUMINATION TOUR
After breakfast today, embark on an optional orientation tour of Geneva and make a stop at the English Gardens;Jardin Des Anglais48; for a stroll past the lakefront. Witness the famous;Jet D' Eau which is a 130 metre-high jet of water on the lake. Thereafter, enjoy a drive past the Brunswick Monument and see the Palais De Nations, the European Headquarters of the UNO, the Red Cross Museum and the Botanical Gardens. Later, drive past the famous mustard fields of Dijon and the vineyards of the Burgundy region to arrive in the city of Paris. On arrival, enjoy the Seine river cruise, which is an unique way to view Paris. The brilliant 'Illumination Tour of Paris' includes drives past the famous monuments and buildings of Paris at night to witness their dazzling illumination. Continue on the optional tour
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
DAY 13: PARIS - CITY TOUR, EIFFEL TOWER & OPTION OF VISITING LOUVRE MUSEUM
After a scrumptious breakfast, embark on a city tour of Paris to witness sights such as Arc De Triomphe, Champs Elysees, Grand Palais, Petit Palais, National Assembly, Alexander Bridge, Concorde Square, Magdalene Church, Opera Garnier, Louvre Palace, Cite Island, French Academy, Sorbonne University, Orsay Museum, Church of the Invalides, Military Academy, Trocadero Square, Palais De Chaillot and the Notre Dame Cathedral. Later on, visit the most famous landmark of Paris, the Eiffel Tower, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from its 3rd level. Built in 1889, and designed by the young engineer Gustav Eiffel. Later take an optional tour for visiting the Louvre Museum. Heir to the period of 'Enlightenment' and the 'French Revolution', the Louvre is one of the largest palaces in the world. The museum is highlighted by such iconic, universally admired works such as the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and the Victory of Samothrace followed by a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
DAY 14: PARIS - DEPARTURE
After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid good bye to Paris and Europe, with an enriching experience, new friends and a bagful of memoirs, all of us would like to keep for posterity
Meals: Breakfast
HOTEL DETAILS
HOTEL KYRIAD VILLAGE
City: Pisa
HOTEL TERRACE
City: Engelberg
Set in a majestic mountain landscape in Engelberg, this Art Nouveau hotel was built in 1903. It offers numerous eating venues, 24-hour reception, free public Wi-Fi and free parking. All en-suite rooms at Hotel Terrace are equipped with TVs and telephones. The restaurant offers an impressive view of the famous Mount Titlis. Guests can also enjoy the view from the winter garden on colder days. The Belle Epoque Restaurant serves a 4-course-meal in summer and various themed dinner buffets on winter evenings. There is a bar offering cocktail drinks as well as a bar with fine whiskeys and cigars.
The free, historic cable car runs from the village up to the Hotel Terrace in 3 minutes. The ski shuttle bus will take guests free of charge from the train station to the Titlis Valley Station, which is a 20-minute walk from the Terrace Hotel.
Room Amenities
Rooms: Economy Twin | Superior Plus | Standard
Shower | Hairdryer | Toilet | Bathroom | TV | Telephone | Radio | Wake Up Service/Alarm Clock
Dining
1 Restaurant | 2 bars
Belle Epoque Restaurant: 4-course meals and themed-dinners
Bars: Cocktail Drinks Fine Whiskeys, and Cigars
Internet: Free Wi-Fi Internet | Parking: Free parking
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS MECHELEN
City: Antwerp
The Holiday Inn Express Mechelen City Centre offers a comfortable base, right in the centre of this cultural city. Wake up every morning with a free continental breakfast in the Great Room. Enjoy elegant guest rooms, with a power shower and in-house movie system, at competitive rates in the very heart of historical Mechelen. Guests benefit from secure underground parking and free wired internet in the rooms as well as free Wi-Fi in the public areas. This city is located between Antwerp and Brussels with its international airport. You can unwind in the Great Room and relax in front of the large television. With a 24-hour reception, you can benefit from all-round service and come and go as you please.
Hotel Facilities
Bar | 24-Hour Front Desk | Newspapers | Non-Smoking Rooms | Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests | Elevator | Safety Deposit Box | Heating | Luggage Storage | Air Conditioning | Dry Cleaning | Currency Exchange | Fax/Photocopying
Room Amenities
Rooms: Standard Double | Single
Safety Deposit Box | Air Conditioning | Iron | Work Desk | Shower | Hairdryer | Toilet | Pay TV | TV | Telephone | Radio | Tea/Coffee Maker | Wake Up Service/Alarm Clock
Dining
1 Bar
Holiday Inn Express: Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Drinks with a wide variety of Snacks
Internet: Free Wired (and Wi-Fi) Internet Access | Parking: Available at EUR 16 per day
HOTEL CRISTAL
City: Geneva
Cristal Hotel is an all purpose 3 star hotel in the picturesque Swiss town of Geneva. With 79 rooms and a prime location near the shopping street, this hotel is minutes away from various tourist attractions of Geneva.
The nearest railway station (Cornavin Train Station) is mere 100 metres away. The city centre is 1 km away and the nearest airport is 10 km away. Hotel Cristal also has a beautiful breakfast room on the top floor.
Hotel Facilities
24-Hour Front Desk | Luggage storage | non smoking public and private areas | Meeting/Banquet facilities | Laundry | Dry cleaning | Currency exchange | Ironing | Wi-Fi and internet | Cards accepted | Automatic wakeup call
Room Amenities
Individual Air Conditioning | Soundproofed windows | Minibar | Newspaper | Non Smoking rooms | Disabled friendly | Safety deposit box | Heating for winters | Radio | Hairdryer
Room Service: 24 hours
Dining: 1 Restaurant
Business: 1 Banquet / Business Centre
Dining: 1
Check-in Time: From 2:00 PM | Check-out Time: Till 12:00 Noon
HOTEL DAYS SHOREDITCH
City: London
HOTEL HOLIDAY INN
City: Heidelberg
HILTON ORLY
City: Paris
IBIS PADOVA
City: Padova
Nestled in a suburb of Padua, Hotel Ibis Padova is a 20-minute drive from the center of the city and 2.5 miles from the Fiera di Padova exhibition center. The hotel is just 45 minutes drive away from the airport. The hotel is ornately built and the rooms are quite clean and well maintained. The staff at the hotel are friendly and at the same time polite and courteous. The hotel features 135 airconditioned rooms, including two for guests with limited mobility.
Hotel Facilities
Restaurant | Bar | 24-Hour Front Desk | Newspapers | Non-Smoking Rooms | Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests | Elevator | Safe | Soundproofed Rooms | Heating | Baggage Storage | Air Conditioning | Restaurant With Dining Menu | Snack Bar | Meeting/Banquet Facilities | Business Center | Laundry | Currency Exchange | Shoe Shine | Fax/Photocopying
Room Amenities
The three star hotel offers its patrons 143 well furnished and spacious rooms. All the rooms are air-conditioned and tastefully decorated keeping in mind the guests’ comforts.
Air conditioning | Cable/satellite television channels | Climate control | Complimentary newspaper | Direct-dial phone | Fax machine | Hair dryer (on request) | In-room safe | Soundproofed rooms | Wireless high-speed Internet access (surcharge)
Internet: Wi-Fi Internet Access (chargeable) | Parking:Available Free of Charge
Padova, Padua in English, is a city located in north-eastern Italy and serves as the capital of the Padova province. It is a picturesque old city and a major economic and communication hub of the area. Situated on the Bacchiglione River, Padova is criss-crossed by a dense network of arcaded streets and several bridges. The Euganean Hills sprawl on south-western part of the city, adding more to its beauty. Purportedly the oldest city in northern Italy, Padova is famous for its university, called the Riformatori dello Studio di Padova and its main building Palazoo de Bo. Established in 1222, the university houses the oldest botanical garden in the world, Orto Botanico di Padova (1545), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A must visit is the Saint Anthony's Cathedral, the principle landmark of Padova, which is home to some notable relics and statues. Prato della Valle is also a must visit, a glorious 90,000 metre square, that is the biggest city square in the world, and is filled with many statues and monuments. Other must visits include: Oratorio de San Giorgio Scrovegni's Chapel, Saint Giustina Basilica, the Roman ruins, Duomo, Astronomic Observatory (La Specola), Palazzo della Ragione, Belzoni Museo – Laboratio di Antichi Strumenti Scientifici and Ermitani Civic Museum. For shopping and eating you can visit the two major markets of the city, namely Piazza delle Erbe or Piazza dei Frutti and Prato della Valle. These markets have numbers of eating joints and shops selling clothes, household goods, fruits and vegetables, plants and antiques.
Padova Prato della Valle Padova Saint Anthonys Basilica Padova View at Night
PISA
World famous for its not-so-straight bell tower, Pisa is a quaint little town in Tuscany, central Italy, lying at the junction of the Arno and Serchio Rivers in the Ligurian Sea. However, there is much more to this city than the Leaning Tower, or Torro Pendente. Pisa is filled with many other architectural and cultural wonders, such as the Camp del Miracoli, Duomo di Pisa, Battistero, Campo Santo Monumentale, Museo del Opera del Duomo, Museo delle Sinopie, Piazza dei Cavalieri, Palazzo della Carovana, Palazzo dell'Orologio, Chiesa di Santo Stefano, Church of San Rocco, Palazzo Carovana, Palazzo dei Dodici, Piazza Garibaldi, Ponte di Mezzo, the Ussero Cafe, Giardino Scotto, and La Cittadella.
Pisa Arno River Pisa Piazza dei Miracoli Pisa Cathedral and Baptistry Pisa Leaning Tower of Pisa Pisa Santa Maria della Spina
ENGELBERG
A summer snow paradise, Mount Titlis overlooks Engelberg in Central Switzerland, and at over 10,000ft (3020m), it is the highest viewpoint in the region. Offering snow and ice all year round, it is also an alpine-sports centre, where you can ski, snowboard, and skate. The Titlis Glacier is stunningly beautiful, and attracts tourists from all over Europe. It is in fact one of the most accessible snow paradises in Switzerland, only about 1.5 hours from Lucerne, Zurich, Basil, or Berne. There is a lot to do here even for those with no inclination towards alpine sports.
Engelberg Alpine Town Engelberg Green Pastures Engelberg Mountains Engelberg Rotair Cable Car Engelberg Ski Slopes
ANTWERP
Known for its diamond industry, cult fashion sense, architecture, and friendly people, Antwerp is a must-see destination when visiting Europe. It is situated in the Flanders region of Belgium and is also the second-largest city of the country after Brussels. Antwerp's port is second only to Rotterdam in Europe and is an important part of city's economics. The architecture of Antwerp cannot be missed, be it the medieval fortress, churches, cathedral, museums, art galleries, statues and the charming boulevards. The old city centre is the hub of Antwerp's rich historical architecture.
LONDON
Noisy, vibrant and truly multicultural, London is a megalopolis of people, ideas and over pouring energy. London is a melting pot of cultures, royalty, history and grandeur with a cosmopolitan edge. A timeless beauty with spectacular sights like Big Ben, the Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Westminster Abbey and the London Eye, London city is exhilarating and intimidating. London possesses a global essence as well as an age old charm. Its unique beauty lies in its cobbled streets and old buildings and the medley of people, cuisines and lifestyle, which also makes it one of the most modern cities in the world.
A city of many faces, at London, you will never get bored. A city with such schizophrenic traits can be nothing short of the extraordinary to explore.
Buckingham Palace London Hyde Park London Tower Bridge London Eye Piccadilly Circus
HEIDELBERG
Germany's oldest university town, Heidelberg has faced down the ravages of time and plunders of war, and has aged gracefully. An age old muse for painters, poets and intellectuals alike, Heidelberg's architecture is all baroque stonework, predominantly Gothic. The Heidelberg Castle, destroyed and rebuilt several times, is the main lure to this quaint and ancient little German town, and is known the world over. Heidelberg is also surrounded by some of the most unspoilt natural beauty that Germany has to offer.
Weather: Spring: March to May 6-16 C Summer: June to August 13-25 C Autumn: September to November 7-14 C Winter: December to February -1-4 C
Shopping:
Heidelberg has plenty of stores and stalls that sell everything from postcards to beer mugs. The best place for souvenirs is around the Heilig Geist Church in the old town's pedestrian precinct (Hauptstrasse). A great place to shop, Heidelberg also offers various types of liquors and jams, in several unique flavours, such as Heidelberger Blaue Perle, which is blueberry liquor. Heidelberg's wines are also very famous, producing some of the best dry white wines in world in nearby vineyards.
Must Do:
A city that is steeped in history, Heidelberg gives visitors plenty of opportunity to indulge. Simply walking the streets of this quaint little town has a splendid effect on your nerves, a refreshing blast from the past. Visit the Castle and the University for a look into Germany's history, and to appreciate their architecture and old-world magnificence. There is also a great variety of traditional German pubs and restaurants, which offer local and regional specialities in authentic settings, especially in the blocks around the Hauptstrasse and the Old City. Try the restaurants Zum Goldenen Schaf, Gasthaus Goldener Hecht, Goldener Anker, and Zum Ritter St. Georg. There are also many international cuisines available at various outlets in Heidelberg. Also try the renowned German beers, and most restaurants offer a large selection these, some even brew their own, such as Kulturbrauerei Brauhaus. For a taste of Heidelberg's unique culture and history, visit museums like Antikenmuseum, the University-Museum, German Apothecaries' Museum, and the Schlossmuseum.
Travel Tools: ISD Code: +49 Currency: Euro (EUR) 1 EUR is approximately 65 Indian Rupees (INR) Time Zone: GMT+1 hour. IST +4:30 hours. Summer (Daylight Savings): GMT+2 hours Voltage: 220V - 240V
Heidelberg Castle Heidelberg Market Square Heidelberg Old Bridge Heidelberg Town Heidelberg University
INNSBRUCK
You will run into serious trouble adjusting to normal life back home after a holiday in the capital city of Tyrol. Utterly laidback, it's biggest selling point, the Alps of which the city renders unbridled views, bought us over several times over as we climbed up various spots to get photo-shots, visited all restaurants that promised beautiful panoramas overlooking them, and bought many a postcard and posters (even crystal ware depicting them!) to take back home. But you'll forget Alps soon enough as you enter city life and sit down at a terrace restaurant with your shoulders shrugged up in cold, your wind-cheaters all zipped up and watch the waiter serve you a splendid portion of cake and a delicious cuppa.
Beautiful museums, churches, palaces, and castles - it's easy to get lost discovering the city's heritage. We recommend keeping track of time and also visiting places like the Old Town, Sparkassenplatz, and Maria-Theresien-Strabe for great shopping experiences and local food. And yes, don't let the cold fool you into thinking the sun isn't hard enough. Its strength will become apparent on your face after a day of roaming around Innsbruck without wearing sunblock. So take care and enjoy!
FAST FACTS
What to pack: In winters, temperatures can plummet to as low as -10 C, so carry layers of warm clothing. Temperatures can radically change from day to day so you'll need to adapt well. A sunblock lotion 50+ SPF is a must. It's amazing to see how sunburnt you can get at such low temperatures. You'll walk a lot here so carry a bottle of water to keep you from dehydrating and wear light shoes all the time.
Main Languages: German (Main) | Austro-Bavarian | Turkish (Minority Language) | Serbian (Minority Language)
When to go: Innsbruck is cold. While in summers, only nights are freezing, in winters, temperatures stay frigid throughout the day. But we haven't seen that fact stop anyone, especially skiing enthusiasts, from taking a schuss down its slopes clad in white for some adrenaline-gushing fun. There are more reasons to be here in winters, like Bergsilvester (New Year's Eve) and Christkindlmarkt (Christmas fair), two great ways to catalogue the lifestyles and culture of locals here.
Summer, being temperate, is a little more touristy.
Local transport: The Innsbrucker Verkehrsbetriebe (IVB) provides local transport, which includes trams and buses. The tram ride to Fulpmes is a scenic experience. It's beautiful.
People staying closer to the city centre can reach most attractions on foot or at the most, by a short tram ride.
Currency: Euro | 1 Euro = INR 64 (approx)
Voltage: 230V / 50Hz
Time Zone: GMT + 2:00 Hours | IST + 3:30 Hours
Shopping: The old town, dotted with small souvenir shops, is a great place to buy things for people back home. Austrian crystal ware makes for a great buy. Other than these, there are a many shopping malls selling the usual and the unusual. You can also buy packed food like cheese, salami and lamb meat.
Sightseeing: Buy an Innsbruck-card worth 25 Euros (valid for 1 day), travel all over the city, and visit all attractions, absolutely free of cost. However, daily public transport cards (in case you aren't covering all destinations) are a better bet. They come way cheaper.
Places to visit include churches like the Hofkirche, which houses the tomb monument of King Macmillan I and the majestic St. Jacob's Cathedral. Innsbruck is dotted with palaces, castles, and museums, so prepare an itinerary beforehand to make sure you cover the places you think are worthy of a visit.
Maria-Theresien-Strabe is a beautiful place to take a walk around at and renders amazing views of the Nordkette mountain ranges. Also visit the Sparkassenplatz, a bustling urban centre to mingle with the locals and enjoy dining at a range of cafes and eateries. In summer, you'll see it come alive with open air film screenings and concerts for everyone.
Food: Visit Cafe Im Murm, built inside the ski-jump of Bergisel, for great coffee, delicious cakes and of course, amazing views of the city and its skyline.
Located where the Herzog Friedrichstrasse culminates, the Ottoburg serves delicious food in separate rooms, each designed and furnished to a different theme. The restaurant has specialty chefs, a different one dedicated to different cuisines, deserts, speciality non-vegetarian food etc.
Great food, great bier, and mesmerising city panorama, besides Cafe Im Murm, are also standard with Seegrube-Hafelekar. Stay out in the sun on the terrace and enjoy.
A superb menu of teas, coffee, and pastries and a good laidback atmosphere has made Cafe Central a favourite with many a local and tourists. Try it!
Innsbruck Goldenes Dachl Innsbruck Inn River Innsbruck St Annes Column Innsbruck Triumphpforte Innsbruck
GENEVA
The towering snow-capped Alpine peaks are a perfect backdrop to the green valleys of the Swiss countryside. The charming city of Geneva like all other Swiss cities is rich in history and architecture with several world-famous structures finding a home here making it undoubtedly one of the world's most beautiful cities. There are several cultures that come together in Geneva too, giving it a true international flavour. Politically lauded for being a neutral territory, Geneva is where many international treaties have been and many international organizations like the Red Cross and United Nations are headquartered.
Geneva Flower Clock Geneva Jet dEau Geneva The Brunswick Monument Lake Geneva United Nations Building in Geneva
PARIS
Paris is the ultimate cosmopolitan capital, and is a city like no other. Popularly known as The City of Lights, it is much more than that! Home to historical and cultural wonders like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame Cathedral and the hub of fashion haute coutre, it has something for everyone, throughout the year.
Located in the Northern part of the country on the River Seine, Paris has the reputation of being the most beautiful and romantic of all cities, brimming with historic associations and remaining vastly influential in the realms of culture, art, fashion, food and design. The heart of Europe, it throbs its way into people's inner sanctums, romancing them, making them love it. Paris (Pah-Ree to the locals) makes you indulge, fulfilling your desires and stimulating your senses. Paris is a city that never sleeps, and is a stunning contrast of decadence and vitality, of old-world charm and avant-garde restlessness. From vibrant gay and lesbian outbursts to avant garde theatre, Paris has it all - a dream destination which has to be visited at least once in a lifetime!
Paris Arc de Triomphe Paris Eiffel Tower Paris Louvre Museum Paris Notre Dame Cathedral Paris River Senne
ROME
As all roads lead to Rome, this city does not need an introduction. Here is one anyway. The Eternal City will always overwhelm with its sheer imperial scale - packed full of temples, residences, basilicas, churches, squares, parks, museums and fountains - Rome is breathtaking. Whether it is the unbelievable opulence of the Vatican, or the simplicity of a trattoria serving humble fare, you will always feel the city's timelessness and millennia of rich history on the very ground you walk upon. The city has many layers that correspond to periods in its history: such as Ancient Rome, Medieval Rome, Christian Rome and Renaissance Rome to name a few. The capital of Italy, the Rome's modern layer is also quite evident, and it is dynamic and efficient, always blending the old with the new.
Rome Palazzo Venezia Rome Roman Forum Rome Spanish Steps Rome Colosseum Rome Trevi Fountain
PHOTO GALLERY
Padova Prato della Valle
Prato della Valle is the largest square in Italy, and second largest in Europe, second to only the Red Square in Moscow. A 90,000 square meter elliptical square in the centre of Padova, the square contains a green island in the centre, which is surrounded by small canal bordered by two rings of statues. These 78 statues portray famous citizens of Padova, including the founder of the square, Andrea Memmo.
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