136 Trips found for "valley of the flowers"

• Amsterdam: Cruise along the old waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
• Aalsmeer: The colossal Aalsmeer Flower Auction is the size of 200 football pitches and even has its own fire brigade, hairdresser and bicycle repairman! Over 30,000 species are featured, with 43 million flowers and 5 million plants are sold daily Monday to Friday. The most popular varieties are roses, tulips and chrysanthemums.
• Bruges: Visit the Market Square and famous belfry of the Market Hall with your Local Expert. See the Gothic town hall in Burg Square and the frescoes on the walls of the Holy Blood Chapel.
• Giverny: Visit the fascinating house and gardens where Claude Monet, the Master of Impressionism, lived and worked from 1883 until his death in 1926. Revel in an oasis of color, both within the house and in the fragrant gardens.
• Chambord: The stunning Loire Valley is world-famous for its magnificent Chateaux, as well as beautiful landscapes and delicious wine. Visit two of the most famous Chateaux: Chenonceau Castle, and Chateau de Chambord, and be transported back in time as you explore them and their gardens.
• Versailles: Visit the Château de Versailles, one of the most beautiful achievements of 18th century French art. This former royal residence is world renowned for its architecture, grandeur and extravagant gardens.
• Paris: Explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris. See famous landmarks including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower and the facades of the Louvre. Stroll the banks of the River Seine and admire romantic bridges, and enjoy a drive along the Champs Elysées to the Arc de Triomphe.
• London: Experience the world-famous Chelsea Flower Show, an inspiring and enjoyable showcase of fabulous floral displays and cutting-edge garden design. Immerse yourself in colour and ingenuity as you enjoy the very best show gardens, flowers, and gardening from around the world.
• Monnickendam: Journey through the polder landscape to visit Monnickendam. Along the way, visit a rustic cheese workshop to learn the secrets of the dairy industry and witness the ancient art of clog making.

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

• EXCURSIONS INCLUDED
• Paris and its legendary places
• "Titi parisien' themed evening on board

• Your Parisian rhapsody... flows through the heart of the city of l'amour
• meanders through painted landscapes and flowers with romance in seaside villages and exquisite gardens along the Seine...

  Impressions of France... rendered on canvas within famed art or quickly captured by street artists in Montmartre

• gilded into a golden palace at Versailles
• indulged during a château dinner
• distilled into apple brandy and cider
• carved into a clifftop castle
• and floating in a Water Garden... linger long after you return home. Follow the Seine to coastal Normandy on a 10-day journey that's sure to impress. Discover the art of Paris before a 7-night cruise to Rouen
• Honfleur and Giverny
• immortalized by Impressionist artists. Visit D-Day beaches
• sample Calvados where it is made
• dine at a private château and more before returning to Paris via riverboat.

• Want to stay longer? You can extend this trip up to a total of 9 days!

• Along the River Seine to the coast of Normandy and back features art and daily life in Paris
• stops in historic
• small villages and towns
• and a memorable visit to the beaches of Normandy.

  Unique experiences include a Tauck Exclusive evening at Château du Taillis

• a palatial private residence in Normandy
• where guests will enjoy a reception
• dinner
• music
• and a tour of the château's small museum of World War II artifacts; and a private early-opening guided visit to the home and gardens of the painter Claude Monet at Giverny
• where he painted many masterpieces
• followed by free time to explore the nearby Impressionist Museum as you please; and in Paris
• a choice of museum visit. Highlights include Versailles
• for guided visit inside Louis XIV's magnificent palace and gardens at Château de Versailles; Rouen
• where a walking tour includes visits to Cathédrale de Rouen and Joan of Arc Square with a local guide; the D-Day Beaches of Normandy
• with guided visits to Pont du Hoc
• Omaha Beach
• and the American Cemetery along with lunch at Chateau la Cheneviere; Les Andelys for a guided walking tour and a visit to Château Gaillard; and Tilly
• for cider and Calvados tastings and a Normandy farm tour.

• Along the River Seine to the coast of Normandy and back features art and daily life in Paris
• stops in historic
• small villages and towns
• and a memorable visit to the beaches of Normandy.

  Unique experiences include a Tauck Exclusive evening at Château du Taillis

• a palatial private residence in Normandy
• where guests will enjoy a reception
• dinner
• music
• and a tour of the château's small museum of World War II artifacts; and a private early-opening guided visit to the home and gardens of the painter Claude Monet at Giverny
• where he painted many masterpieces
• followed by free time to explore the nearby Impressionist Museum as you please; and in Paris
• a choice of museum visit. Highlights include Versailles
• for guided visit inside Louis XIV's magnificent palace and gardens at Château de Versailles; Rouen
• where a walking tour includes visits to Cathédrale de Rouen and Joan of Arc Square with a local guide; the D-Day Beaches of Normandy
• with guided visits to Pont du Hoc
• Omaha Beach
• and the American Cemetery along with lunch at Chateau la Cheneviere; Les Andelys for a guided walking tour and a visit to Château Gaillard; and Tilly
• for cider and Calvados tastings and a Normandy farm tour.

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

• ONLY WITH CROISIEUROPE: A luxury cruise on an authentic paddle riverboat
• EXTENDED STAY INCLUDED:
  • 1-night/2-day trip to the Châteaux of the Loire Valley
  • Accommodations at a 3- or 4-star hotel in Paris
  • Dinner in a typical French brasserie
  • Visit the Chambord and Chenonceau châteaux
• EXCURSIONS INCLUDED:
  • A full-day excursion through the Loire-Château d'Ussé, Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, and the gardens at the Château de Villandry
  • Only with CroisiEurope: Helicopter ride over the Loire Valley(2)
  • Tasting of wines* in the cellar of the Château de Brissac
  • Explore Nantes, and its secret courtyards and passages
  • The Saint-Nazaire shipyard, French excellence
  • The Muscadet Wine Route, regional vineyards

• 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
• 7 Breakfast (B)
• 2 Dinner (D)
• 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
• 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)
• Le Mans: Walk among the wild hyacinths in the beautiful gardens of the 17th-century Chateau d'Eporce, during a Be My Guest lunch. Enjoy home-cooked dishes created by the resident culinary expert, Lydia.
• Bayeux: Explore the 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry telling the story of Norman conquests and the Battle of Hastings so many centuries ago.
• Amboise: Learn all about the centuries-old tradition of wine trading originating from the troglo cave dwellings that have been at the heart of wine in the Touraine region since the 16th century.
• Paris: Explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris on an orientation drive this evening.
• Honfleur: Admire the harbour town of Honfleur and its beautiful colourful storefronts.
• Normandy Beaches: Spend the morning visiting the American Rangers Memorial and pay tribute to those who lost their lives on D-Day Landing Beach.
• Omaha Beach: Join an emotive journey tracing the story of the D-Day landings and visit Omaha Beach.
• Mont-Saint-Michel: Savour your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel and cross the causeway to explore the tidal island town.
• Amboise: Visit the Amboise Royal Château with your Local Specialist where you will see the home of Leonardo da Vinci's tomb.
• Chateau Chenonceau: Visit Château de Chenonceau or commonly known as 'Ladies Castle' which got its name from the many women who influenced its construction.
• Chartres: Bask in the beautiful religious architecture from the 13th century as you explore the town of Chartres.
• : Explore Mont-Saint-Michel and Châteaux of the Loire Valley with a Local Specialist
• : Discover Paris, Rouen, Honfleur, Bayeux and the Loire Valley
• : Visit the Bayeux Tapestry, the Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches of Omaha and Juno, the monastery of Mont-Saint-Michel, the Châteaux of Amboise and Chenonceau and Chartres cathedral
• : View the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe in Paris
• : An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
• : Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
• : All porterage and restaurant gratuities
• : All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
• : Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
• : Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
• : Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
• : Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
• : Optional Experiences and free time

• Cycle along the Loire River, passing by classic quaint villages and the verdant countryside in the north west of France.
• You haven’t seen chateaux until you’ve seen the ones in France. Marvel at the Chateau de Chenonceau, which spans the banks of the Cher River, and the acclaimed Chateau de Villandry, among others.
• Discover the Loire's charm on a river cruise and toast the moment with a glass of exquisite local wine.
• Consider the option of visiting a chateau turned museum, showcasing Leonardo da Vinci’s designs and how he spent his final years of life in the nearby town of Amboise.
• Explore the vineyards of Vouvray, near Villandry, for an optional tasting, and discover why this region is known for its aged chenin blanc wines.
• Complete your cycling journey in the township of Angers, with its history dating back centuries, and buildings to suit.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

• EXCURSIONS INCLUDED: 
• EXCLUSIVE TO CROISIEUROPE the Loire from above(1)
• Full-day excursion to the castles of the Loire Valley: guided tours of the castles of Ussé, Azay-le-Rideau and the gardens of Villandry
• The Saint-Nazaire shipyard, embodiment of French pride
• The wine route of the Muscadet through the vineyards of the Nantes region
• Cruise on board a paddle steamer

• So many delights are in store along the enchanting Moselle and Rhine on our 14-night cruise between Basel and Amsterdam... From the Netherlands to Switzerland
• through Germany
• France and Luxembourg
• see the marriage of French and German culture in Strasbourg; mingle with jet setters in Baden-Baden; check out the ancient university town of Heidelberg and medieval masterpieces like Bernkastel
• Trier and Cochem. Pay tribute to those who fell in the Battle of the Bulge at the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial; get a true taste of Europe with regional specialties
• local wines and folk traditions; and enjoy an exclusive special dinner at a castle in Germany.

• So many delights are in store along the enchanting Moselle and Rhine on our 14-night cruise between Basel and Amsterdam... From the Netherlands to Switzerland
• through Germany
• France and Luxembourg
• see the marriage of French and German culture in Strasbourg; mingle with jet setters in Baden-Baden; check out the ancient university town of Heidelberg and medieval masterpieces like Bernkastel
• Trier and Cochem. Pay tribute to those who fell in the Battle of the Bulge at the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial; get a true taste of Europe with regional specialties
• local wines and folk traditions; and enjoy an exclusive special dinner at a castle in Germany.

• So many delights are in store along the enchanting Moselle and Rhine on our 14-night cruise between Basel and Amsterdam... From the Netherlands to Switzerland
• through Germany
• France and Luxembourg
• see the marriage of French and German culture in Strasbourg; mingle with jet setters in Baden-Baden; check out the ancient university town of Heidelberg and medieval masterpieces like Bernkastel
• Trier and Cochem. Pay tribute to those who fell in the Battle of the Bulge at the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial; get a true taste of Europe with regional specialties
• local wines and folk traditions; and enjoy an exclusive special dinner at a castle in Germany.

• 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
• 12 Breakfast (B)
• 1 Regional Dinner (RD)
• 2 Dinner (D)
• 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
• 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)
• Villandry: Return to 17th-century France and join the de Montferrier family on their farm near the famous Château de Villandry for a delightful Be My Guest lunch.
• Villandry: Visit Château Villandry in the Loire Valley and admire the exquisite Renaissance gardens that surround this elegant estate.
• Beaune: Vist the Hopsices de Beaune and learn about its captivating past as well as admiring its flamboyant Gothic architecture.
• Avignon: View the Pont d'Avignon and walk the medieval narrow streets of the Old Town to the Palais des Papes.
• Monaco City: See the cathedral where Prince Rainier and Princess Grace were married.
• Arles: Hear more about the city that is famed for being the inspiration behind the Van Gogh paintings during a city orientation.
• Lourdes: Explore Lourdes, globally renowned as a Roman Catholic pilgrimage site and attracting over three million faithful visitors every year.
• Saint-Émilion: Take in the vine-laden surroundings and established wine-making heritage of Saint-Émilion.
• Mont-Saint-Michel: Savour your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel and cross the causeway to explore the tidal island town.
• Omaha Beach: Join an emotive journey tracing the story of the D-Day landings and visit Omaha Beach.
• Giverny: View the gardens that inspired many of Impressionist Claude Monet’s most famous masterpieces.
• Paris: Join a Local Specialist to discover the hidden squares and secret lanes of Paris.
• : Explore Carcassonne and Paris with a Local Specialist
• : Discover Lyon, Avignon, Monaco, Nice, Arles, Lourdes and Bordeaux
• : Visit the Hospices de Beaune, Château de Villandry, the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach, Claude Monet's home at Giverny and the Saint-Sulpice Church in Paris
• : View the Papal Palace in Avignon, the Royal Palace and Cathedral in Monaco, Promenade des Anglais and Place Massena in Nice, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, Esplanade des Quinconces in Bordeaux, the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, the D-Day Beach of Omaha in Normandy and Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris
• : See the Roman Amphitheatre and the Cathedral in Arles
• : Scenic Drive through the Dordogne and the Loire Valley
• Loire Valley: Step back in time with a stay in the regal 16th and 17th-century Chateâu de Beauvois.
• : An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
• : Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
• : All porterage and restaurant gratuities
• : All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
• : Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
• : Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
• : Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
• : Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
• : Optional Experiences and free time

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

• Dinner at the Abbey of Collonges, Paul Bocuse's temple of gastronomic excellence
• EXCURSIONS INCLUDED:
  • Discover the fine Côtes Rôtie and Saint-Joseph vineyards
  • Wine-tasting* in a cellar of Tain L'Hermitage
  • Vienne, ancient Roman city
  • Lyon and its peculiar "traboules"
  • Wine-tasting* in the Beaujolais vineyards

• So many delights are in store along the enchanting Moselle and Rhine on our 14-night cruise between Basel and Amsterdam... From the Netherlands to Switzerland
• through Germany
• France and Luxembourg
• see the marriage of French and German culture in Strasbourg; mingle with jet setters in Baden-Baden; check out the ancient university town of Heidelberg and medieval masterpieces like Bernkastel
• Trier and Cochem. Pay tribute to those who fell in the Battle of the Bulge at the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial; get a true taste of Europe with regional specialties
• local wines and folk traditions; and enjoy an exclusive special dinner at a castle in Germany.

• So many delights are in store along the enchanting Moselle and Rhine on our 14-night cruise between Basel and Amsterdam... From the Netherlands to Switzerland
• through Germany
• France and Luxembourg
• see the marriage of French and German culture in Strasbourg; mingle with jet setters in Baden-Baden; check out the ancient university town of Heidelberg and medieval masterpieces like Bernkastel
• Trier and Cochem. Pay tribute to those who fell in the Battle of the Bulge at the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial; get a true taste of Europe with regional specialties
• local wines and folk traditions; and enjoy an exclusive special dinner at a castle in Germany.

• So many delights are in store along the enchanting Moselle and Rhine on our 14-night cruise between Basel and Amsterdam... From the Netherlands to Switzerland
• through Germany
• France and Luxembourg
• see the marriage of French and German culture in Strasbourg; mingle with jet setters in Baden-Baden; check out the ancient university town of Heidelberg and medieval masterpieces like Bernkastel
• Trier and Cochem. Pay tribute to those who fell in the Battle of the Bulge at the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial; get a true taste of Europe with regional specialties
• local wines and folk traditions; and enjoy an exclusive special dinner at a castle in Germany.

• Want to stay longer? You can extend this trip up to a total of 8 days!
• The Tootbus Must-See Paris Hop-on/Hop-off Tour + River Cruise (24 hours)
• Guided Tour of Normandy & The D-Day Beaches
• Skip-the-Line Guided Tour of Versailles Palace & Gardens (Half-Day Morning-VAM)
• Guided Tour to the Loire Valley Castles (from Paris)

• Chateau Chenonceau: Visit the majestic Château de Chenonceau, known as the 'Ladies' Château' it perfectly embodies the elegance of 16th century design in the Loire Valley.
• Bordeaux: Your Local Expert will show you the quayside facades, Grand Theater, Triangle d'Or and magnificent Esplanade des Quinconces.
• San Sebastián: Led by your Local Expert, enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter including Plaza de la Constitucion.
• Madrid: See the highlights of the city with your Local Expert. Visit the Old Town, traveling along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, past the fountain in the Plaza de Cibeles, the Cervantes Monument and Royal Palace, before crossing the Puerta del Sol.
• Barcelona: With your Local Expert, drive down Las Ramblas and the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to witness some of the finest Modernist architecture. Journey through the Eixample district to see Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerizing Sagrada Família.
• Avignon: View the Pont d'Avignon and walk the medieval narrow streets of the Old Town to the Palais des Papes.
• Nice: Enjoy exploring the beautiful coastal town of Nice on the French Riviera.
• Monaco City: Enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit and wander the old town with your Travel Director to see the Royal Palace and the yacht-filled harbor.
• Monaco City: Explore inside Monaco Cathedral.
• Pisa: Your Local Expert will show you the baptistery bristling with marble spines, the colonnaded bell tower lurching behind the 11th century cathedral and of course, the famous Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles.
• Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods.
• Rome: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the medieval buildings, including Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches, scattered throughout the city.
• Venice: With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.
• Ljubljana: Explore this elegant capital with your Local Expert, to see the castle City Hall, Cathedral of St Nicholas and Triple Bridge.
• Maribor: Led by your Travel Director, explore this charming city, the second largest in Slovenia. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of old and new architecture.
• Vienna: Walk through the first district, Inner Stadt, as your Local Expert reveals why this is the historic core of the city. You will also tour the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche.
• Salzburg: Join your Local Expert to visit the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace and Residence Square - both locations used in 'The Sound of Music.' You will also see the imposing fortress, the immense cathedral and Mozart's birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse.
• Innsbruck: Nestled amidst majestic mountains, Innsbruck is a beautiful city offering a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. Stroll the streets of the picturesque Old Town, with your Travel Director, learn about its history and admire the Baroque and Gothic architecture.
• Vaduz: Admire the Royal family's residence, Vaduz Castle, which overlooks the capital and is surrounded by year-round snow peaked mountains.
• Lucerne: During your orientation with your Travel Director, see the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge.
• Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit.
• Amsterdam: Cruise along the old waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
• Madrid: Visit the Reina Sofia Museum with an art historian and see Pablo Picasso's masterpiece Guernica, one of the world's greatest anti-war paintings. Alternatively, join a neighborhood walking tour to discuss social equity empowerment and learn about the history of women's movements in Spain.
• Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini's first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.
• Rhineland: The beautiful scenery of the Rhine River is punctuated by the many castles dotted along its banks. Delight in a private estate viewing of one of these Rhineland castles and learn more about these living cultural monuments located along the Middle Rhine.
• Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft.  This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
• Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit. Walk along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, with the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 & 15: Affordable and Clean Energy & Life on Land.
• Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of Paris for a delightful dinner, served with wine.
• Paris: Join an avid local foodie on a walk through the streets of Paris. Visit a variety of patisseries, boulangeries and chocolatiers and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.
• San Sebastián: Enjoy an evening of pintxos, dining with locals in this Basque tradition. Your delicious dinner includes a wide variety of finger food delicacies, each with their own regional flavor, flair and presentation.
• Avignon: At a local farm learn about olive oil and enjoy a tasting of the freshest produce before indulging in a farm-to-table dinner of traditional French home-style cuisine.
• Venice: In St Marks Square at sunset, long after the day-trippers have gone to their mainland hotels, sip cocktails canal-side before dinner at a local restaurant.
• Lucerne: Choose from a selection of restaurants on your Dine-Around Evening and hand-pick your preferred ambience, cuisine and drinks for an intimate culinary experience.
• Amsterdam: Toast the culmination of your travels during a fabulous Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant.
• Optional - Choose between two carefully selected activities
• Optional - Vienna: Visit Capuchins' Crypt - the burial place of the Habsburg family in Vienna.
• Optional - Vienna: Visit a traditional coffeehouse to enjoy Viennese specialties of coffee and Sachertorte.