Grand European Tour

R136: Grand European Tour
15 Days/14 Nights

Places Visited

Amsterdam Capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is renowned for its museums, colourful gardens, abundance of bicycles and endless lattice of canals. A scenic canal boat ride is an excellent way to enjoy views of Amsterdam’s Golden Age architecture. This 800-year-old city is also famous for the Rijksmuseum, which houses works by Rembrandt and other Dutch Masters. Other highlights include the famous house where Anne Frank penned her poignant diary chronicling her days in hiding during World War II.	Typical Amsterdam Scene
Bamburg Founded in 902, Bamberg remains a medieval-looking city known for its symphony orchestra and specialty, “smoke” beer. The city’s winding streets are filled with baroque patrician houses and are home to the breathtaking 11th century Cathedral of Holy Roman Emperor Heinrich II, housing his tomb and that of Pope Clement II. Be sure to see the old bishop’s houses—16th century Alt Residenz (Old Residence) and 17th century Neue Residenz (New Residence).
Bratislava The capital of Slovakia, Bratislava is filled with lovingly restored baroque city palaces and dominated by an enormous castle 300 feet above the Danube. After decades of communist rule, Bratislava is transforming itself into one of central Europe’s most vibrant cities. See St. Martin’s Cathedral in historic Old Town and Michael’s Gate, as well as centuries-old squares filled with shops and cafés.	Bratislava Steet Scene
Budapest Hungary’s enchanting capital straddles the banks of the Danube and is divided into two distinct parts, traditional “Buda” and more modern “Pest.” Budapest is aptly called “Paris of the East” for its beautiful evening illumination and reflected lights in the Danube’s waters. The old city features amazing examples of architecture such as Buda Castle, Parliament building, Chain Bridge and Matthias Church, where the coronation ceremonies of Hungarian Kings were held. Gellért Hill, high above the city, offers not-to-be-missed views.
Cologne An intriguing mix of old and new, Cologne reveals its Roman heritage in the city layout and ancient ruins that lie scattered through the town. Cologne’s modern plazas and Hohe-Strasse, a pedestrian-only shopping zone, provide a variety of stores, lively bars and enticing restaurants. Of particular note is the city’s 14th century Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic artistry. Spared Allied bombs during World War II, the Cathedral’s lacy spires are visible for miles, and its stained-glass windows fill the interior with brilliant coloured light.
Dürnstein Set amidst the scenic Wachau Valley, Dürnstein is encircled with vine-clad hills and beautiful landscapes. The village maintains its medieval atmosphere by means of its cobblestone streets, and boasts enchanting 18th century houses. Highlights include the ruins of Kuenriger Castle, where Richard the Lionheart of England was allegedly imprisoned in the 12th century. A famous wine town, Dürnstein is also home to many charming taverns that serve local wines.
Koblenz Set at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, Koblenz is filled with traditional German charm. Founded more than 2,000 years ago, it has grown to become the business and cultural centre of the Middle Rhine Region. Its cobblestone streets, ancient market square and medieval churches remind tourists of yesteryear, although reconstruction has given the city a spacious, modern appearance. Highlights include the Residenz Schloss, one of Germany’s best examples of neoclassic architecture, and Ehrenbreitstein, Europe’s oldest fortress.	Kaiser Wilhelm Monument, Koblenz
Melk Set amidst an important wine-growing region with picturesque villages and hilltop castles, the charming city of Melk lies at the confluence of the Danube and Melk Rivers at the base of the Wachau Valley. An imposing 900-year-old Benedictine abbey, a stunning example of baroque architecture, overlooks the town from its dramatic hilltop location. This architectural treasure has 365 windows, one for each day of the year. Its beautiful library houses medieval manuscripts and marvelous frescoes by Paul Troger, and its meticulously kept grounds are inviting and picturesque.
Nuremberg The second largest city in Bavaria, Nuremberg is filled with Gothic churches and traditional half-timbered houses. Although nearly destroyed during World War II, the remaining medieval city walls still feature some of the watchtowers and gateways. Nuremberg was well known historically for its metal and toy craftsmanship, and the city is infamous for its role in WWII, as both the site of Zeppelin Field’s Nazi rallies and as the site of the war crimes trials at the Palace of Justice, immortalized in the 1961 film, Judgement at Nuremberg.
Passau Set at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz and Danube Rivers, enchanting Passau is home to elegant coloured buildings and graceful arcades. Founded by the Celts more than 2,000 years ago, it’s one of Bavaria’s oldest cities. Passau’s baroque St. Stephan’s Cathedral houses Europe’s largest pipe organ with more than 17,000 pipes.	Passau's Colourful Buildings
Regensburg Having escaped major damage during World War II, the picturesque town of Regensburg is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities and the oldest city along the Danube. Founded by Marcus Aurelius over 2,000 years ago, Regensburg has many architectural highlights including Old Stone Bridge, constructed in the 12th century, and St. Peter’s Cathedral with its Romanesque tower inside a newer Gothic one.
Vienna This capital city of Austria is filled with green parks, elegant stores, theatres and gracious boulevards. Known as the “City of Waltzes,” Vienna is considered the centre of classical music, and here Strauss, Beethoven and Mozart composed many of their finest pieces. Any visitor to Vienna should be sure to stop in one of the city’s famous cafés to taste the delectable Sacher Torte. Noted landmarks include the impressive Hofsburg Palace, Vienna Opera House and lavish Schönbrunn Palace, the preferred residence of the Hapsburgs.
Würzburg Surrounded by Franconian vineyards, Würzburg was heavily damaged during World War II, but has since been completely restored. Here is Germany’s most pristine example of baroque architecture, the great Residenz, built in 1744 by the Prinz-Bishops. Its sweeping staircase and amazing ceiling frescos by Tiepolo survived wartime bombs. Other landmarks include the medieval statue-lined Main Bridge and Marienberg fortress, originally a Celtic hill fort and later residence of the bishops. The round 8th century church within the courtyard of the fortress is one of Germany’s oldest churches.