SPIRIT OF EUROPE 2011

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1 SPIRIT OF EUROPE days, 13 countries Old Europe v New Europe: Who gets your vote?? This magnificent continent has some of the world s greatest locations no trip to Europe would be complete without taking in the splendour of Paris, the ancient majesty of Rome, or the party atmosphere of Amsterdam! But since the demise of Communism in Eastern Europe, a whole host of new destinations have opened up to travellers from around the world! Budapest, Prague and Krakow are cities steeped in history, dripping in romanticism, and with sights to rival any of the traditional European giants. But which side will be your favourite?? With the services of our experienced Topdeck crew, travelling on a modern, airconditioned coach, and with a host of like-minded travelling companions, we re only sure of one thing that you ll have great fun whilst reaching your decision! DAY 1 LONDON TO PARIS, FRANCE Depart with us early this morning from London and wave goodbye to the white cliffs of Dover as we cross the English Channel by ferry, giving us a chance to change currency and grab any final supplies. Alternatively, meet us at our destination- Paris! The capital of France is a city of lights and love, fashion and food, creativity and culture in short, one of the greatest cities in the world. After dinner, take it all in on our City Lights tour, where our expert Topdeck road crew will share with you the sights and sounds of the world s favourite urban destination. (D) DAY 2 PARIS At Topdeck we believe in giving you as much free time as possible to explore the places we take you to- starting today! A free day to take in this magnificent city, whether it s the breathtaking collections of the Louvre, the glorious Notre Dame cathedral, the stunning Arc de Triomphe or the chic boutiques of the Champs Elyseesjust keep those credit cards on a leash! In the afternoon, there is an option to take a Fat Tire bike tour of the city, a great way to Page 1

2 feel the pulse of Paris and get up close to some of its finest monuments. In the evening we can all enjoy Topdeck s exclusive, mouth-watering gourmet picnic in the shadow of the iconic Eiffel Tower delicious food in a truly special setting. After dinner there is the opportunity to take in a quintessentially Parisian cabaret show in the effortlessly cool Latin Quarter, or hop on a boat cruise down the famous waters of the River Seine. (B, D) DAY 3 PARIS TO SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND Today we make our way in to Switzerland, a country so scenic it makes picture postcards spring to life. Our base in the village of Lauterbrunnen is set in a deep valley, flanked by towering cliffs from which waterfalls tumble, framed by the snowy peaks of Europe s great mountain range, the Alps- we re confident you will fall in love with it! Dinner has a local flavour and is prepared on-site by our resident Topdeck chef, after which we can always head to the bar for a nightcap. (B, L, D) DAY 4 SWISS ALPS This morning there is an option to ride the historic Jungfraubahn railway to the highest station in the continent, and visit the summit of the Jungfrau Mountain. At over 12000ft high, this truly deserves its nickname, the Roof of Europe. Not to mention there s guaranteed snow! For those who think that being 12000ft high whilst having your feet on the ground is too boring why not throw yourself out of a helicopter instead?! Okay, so you would have a parachute and experienced skydive master attached to you. but let s not dwell on the details! An optional (weather permitting) skydive over the Swiss Alps is a truly memorable experience. The rest of the day is free to explore this most picturesque corner of the world, with numerous mountain walks and the majestic Trummelbach Falls providing a feast for the eyes. Later there s a feast of the more conventional kind, as we enjoy another delicious dinner from our Topdeck chef. (B, L, D) DAY 5 SWISS ALPS TO FRENCH RIVIERA, FRANCE A scenic drive day transports us from the peaks and valleys of Switzerland to the rugged coastline and azure blue seas of the French Riviera. En route we visit a local perfumery, in a region famed around the globe for its fragrances perhaps you will find your calling as a Nose! Tonight we enjoy an included group dinner in a local restaurant. (B, L, D) DAY 6 FRENCH RIVIERA This part of the world is beloved by the rich and famous, and today is your chance to get in on the act! Pop on those giant sunglasses and join the sunseekers on the beaches of glamorous Nice, or wander through the old town and check out some of the best shopping in Europe. In the evening, it s time to glam up for a trip to the principality of Monaco, one of the world s smallest countries and a billionaire s playground. There is a chance to have a flutter in one of the famous casinos- you could even warm James Bond s seat in the Grand Casino itself! (B) Page 2

3 DAY 7 FRENCH RIVIERA TO FLORENCE, ITALY Onwards in to Italy, where we have ample time to take in the wonderful countryside, culture, and cuisine of this fantastic country. We take time out to visit Pisa and get our photographs with the famous Leaning Tower, before heading to our exclusive resort tucked away in the rolling Tuscan hills outside of Florence. An included dinner tonight gives us our first chance to taste the dishes that have made Italian cookery so famous. (B, D) DAY 8 FLORENCE TO ROME Get your walking boots on! This morning we enjoy a tour of Florence with an experienced local guide, hearing tales of the incredible Renaissance period and the luminaries who made the city so important, such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. The spectacular Duomo, Ponte Vecchio bridge and the famous statue of David will all take the breath away in this most beautiful of places. If this proves a bit overwhelming, then we can always shop til we drop at a local leatherworks, where a brief demonstration will enable us to pick the quality goods from the fakes. Our short drive to Rome gives you time to edit those photos because you ll need some space on your camera for this afternoon! Nicknamed the Eternal City, this is the historic centre of the great Roman Empire, and our walking tour this afternoon with our Topdeck Trip Leader takes in over 2000 years worth of history and a stunning array of sights. These range from the relatively recent, like the opulent Trevi Fountain and the towering Victor Emmanuel II Monument; to the truly ancient, such as the wondrous Pantheon and the awe-inspiring Colosseum. It is a city where the ancient and modern intermingle, and undoubtedly one the world s great destinations. (B) DAY 9 ROME As if the sights of the previous days weren t enough, this morning there is an option to take a guided tour of Vatican City, the world s smallest state and home of the Catholic religion. An experienced guide can show us the treasures of the Vatican Museums, the world famous Sistine Chapel with its ceiling frescoes by Michelangelo, and inside the world s largest church, the incredible St Peter s Basilica. The day is then ours to explore the splendour of Rome! You could take a tour of the Colosseum or ancient Roman Forums, join the locals lounging on the famous Spanish Steps, shop til you drop on the exclusive Via Condotti or head back to our resort and take a dip in the pool! This evening we enjoy a freshly prepared meal from our resident on-site Topdeck chef. (B, D) DAY 10 ROME TO VENICE We move on towards Venice, but en route we make a stop at Verona. This ancient city is famous for being the home of Shakespeare s star-cross d lovers, Romeo and Page 3

4 Juliet. It also boasts a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre and some of Italy s finest gelato! From there we head to our resort and a delicious meal from our resident Topdeck chef, whilst the on-site bar provides a great place to unwind with a few drinks. (B, L, D) DAY 11 VENICE This morning we head in to Venice, a city consisting of a dizzying array of islands, interconnected by countless bridges, and serviced by a beautiful network of canals there really is no other city like it on earth! A walking tour with our Topdeck Trip Leader winds through alleyways and across piazzas, finishing in St Mark s Square with its magnificent basilica. We then pay a visit to a local lace school to see how these delicate masterpieces are created by the talented Venetians, before an optional ride on a gondola, the traditional (and most romantic) way to navigate the waterways that link this great city, during which you can view the famous Rialto Bridge from the waters of the Grand Canal. The rest of the day is ours to spend how we wish, before enjoying another tasty meal from our on-site Topdeck chef. (B, D) DAY 12 VENICE TO VIENNA, AUSTRIA This morning we head north, to the Alpine beauty of Austria. Our destination is the capital, Vienna, a gorgeous city dripping in culture, with impressive sights such as the Hofburg Palace, St Stephen s Cathedral and the majestic Vienna Opera House to be seen on a driving tour taken by our Topdeck crew. Tonight, why not pay a visit to Prater Park, the oldest amusement park in the world. More rollercoasters and fairground games than you can shake a candyfloss stick at just make sure you have room in your luggage for that giant teddy! (B, L, D) DAY 13 VIENNA Our excellent hostel in Vienna provides a great base for a free day in this classy city. We could take in the splendid grounds of the Schönbrunn Palace, look in on the training of the world famous Spanish Riding School (if in town), or feed our brains by exploring the Museum Quarter. Today there is also an optional excursion to a traditional Schnapps Museum where we can sample the local aperitif. If the traditional stuff is too strong for you, then you can always choose from a variety of delicious flavours! Vienna is undoubtedly the home of classical music; Mozart, Beethoven, Bach and Strauss have all had their compositions proudly premiered here, and this evening there is a chance to glam up for an optional visit to a traditional Viennese Chamber Orchestra in one of the city s many Palaces. (B) Page 4

5 DAY 14 VIENNA TO BUDAPEST, HUNGARY This morning we head eastwards, behind the former Iron Curtain - a term coined to describe the deep political division of East and West Europe that existed from just after World War II until the 1990s. Our first stop is Slovakia, a nation that has only been independent since This young country is proudly welcoming more visitors each year, and we take a stop to check out its up-and-coming capital, Bratislava. Our destination though is Hungary, and the twin cities of Buda and Pest, which sit either side of the mighty River Danube, and together are better known as the romantic capital Budapest. A driving tour with our Topdeck crew takes in some magnificent sights, such as Heroes Square, the National Palace, Parliament House and Fisherman s Bastion. (B, D) DAY 15 BUDAPEST Today is a free day for us to explore this amazing city. You could explore the Castle District, full of cobbled streets and underground catacombs, perhaps unwind in one of the famous thermal baths with a massage and beauty treatment, or learn about the darker side of Hungary s Communist past in the House of Terror museum. After a long day, why not unwind with a nice goulash at a local restaurant and a drink at one of the city s legendary dive bars. (B) DAY 16 BUDAPEST TO KRAKOW, POLAND We leave behind Hungary and head in to Poland, a country decimated in World War II but now one of the most exciting and affordable destinations in Europe. The ancient town of Krakow miraculously escaped the worst of the War, and remains as the cultural heart of the country. The Old Town is a delightful step back in time to the glory days of the Middle Ages, whilst the great souvenir shopping shows just how well this charming city has blended the old and new so delicately. (B, L, D) DAY 17 KRAKOW Today is a free day to explore the intriguing, mysterious streets of Krakow. The Wawel Castle, Market Square and Cloth Hall are all eye-catching landmarks, and the latter has some of the best markets in the city nearby. We could perhaps head to the nearby Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13 th Century mine which now houses some incredible sculptures cut straight from the rock salt. Also available is a Schindler tour of the old Jewish ghettoes, where we can educate ourselves about the terrible fate of Poland s Jews during the War. This evening, we get the opportunity to find some delicious local cuisine, before perhaps enjoying a drink in one of the many cellar bars tucked away in the corners of this town! (B) Page 5

6 DAY 18 KRAKOW TO PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC A sombre, but very important, start to the day as we visit the former concentration camps at Auschwitz and Birkenau. Over one million people lost their lives here during the Holocaust, and we get the chance to pay our respects to those people who suffered so terribly at the hands of the Nazi regime. We then make our way to Prague, capital of the Czech Republic. Great architecture, fantastic shopping, fascinating history and outstanding nightlife there are many reasons why this city is a true favourite of Topdeck crew! A city tour with our Trip Leader takes in Gothic masterpieces such as the Hradcany Castle District, Charles Bridge, and the stunning Tyn Church. Tonight, why not take the opportunity to sample some of the best nightlife in Europe. (B, L, D) DAY 19 PRAGUE A free day to explore this beautiful city, hidden for decades behind the Iron Curtain that divided East and West Europe, but now a hugely popular destination and a true gem of Eastern Europe. You could get your portrait painted by an artist on Charles Bridge, learn more about Czech culture and history at the National Museum, or indulge in the charmingly bizarre spectacle of watching an opera performed entirely by traditional marionette puppets! The Czech Republic also produces arguably the world s finest beer, giving us even more reason to celebrate the Prague nightlife. (B) DAY 20 PRAGUE TO BERLIN, GERMANY Willkommen in Deutschland! Welcome to Germany! Our first stop in this great country is the city of Dresden, virtually destroyed in World War II, but rejuvenated once again. Its restored Renaissance buildings symbolise the desire of the nation to rebuild following World War II and the division of East and West Germany which followed. Nowhere is that division more clearly illustrated than in Berlin, Germany s glorious capital city, which for over 25 years was physically separated by the Berlin Wall. Remaining stretches of the wall can be seen on the driving tour conducted by our Topdeck crew, which also takes in famous sights such as the Reichstag, Checkpoint Charlie and the Brandenburg Gate. After checking in to our accommodation, we enjoy an included group dinner. (B, D) DAY 21 BERLIN This morning there is an option to do a Third Reich walking tour, where a local guide can give us a fantastic insight in to some of the places most closely associated with the Nazis and World War II. The day is then ours to explore this incredibly vibrant city, bursting with life and offering no end of things to see and do. This evening, why not take part in an optional nightlife tour, and see why Berlin has a reputation as one of the party capitals of Europe! (B) Page 6

7 DAY 22 BERLIN TO AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS Our trip moves on to the Netherlands, famous for many things- cheese and clogs may spring to mind! So on the way we can pay a visit to a local farmer to see how these typically Dutch products are made, before heading on to the cultural capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam. A walking tour takes in the heart of the city, Dam Square, as well as the famous Red Light district! (B, L) DAY 23 AMSTERDAM This morning we have a Topdeck exclusive; an included bike ride of Amsterdam, giving us the chance to cycle around the canals and parks of this gorgeous city, just as the locals do. We have plenty of free time to take in the abundant culture of Amsterdam, perhaps paying a visit to the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum. Or the Heineken Experience it all depends on your own personal definition of culture! This evening, we have a delicious farewell dinner in a local restaurant, followed by an optional canal cruise around the waterways of this city, the perfect way to round off a memorable Topdeck trip. (B, D) DAY 24 AMSTERDAM TO LONDON Today we say our sad farewells to the Netherlands, heading to Belgium and the incredibly well preserved medieval city of Bruges. A short walking tour is followed by free time to explore and sample some delicious Belgian specialities; chocolate, waffles, and for the more sturdy souls- beer! We then head to Calais and catch our ferry back to England, where the trip finishes this evening, and we say our fond farewells to our Topdeck companions! (B) Page 7

8 IMPORTANT NOTES To be fully prepared, download the following documentation from and go to the relevant Itinerary Page of your trip: * Pre-departure information * Optional Activities Luggage Allowance - 1 Backpack plus a day pack. Maximum weight of backpack must not exceed 20kgs. Size must not exceed 70cmx45cmx25cm. Due to the strict weight regulations for coaches in Europe, passengers whose luggage exceeds 20kgs will be asked to offload the excess on departure morning. Storage facilities are available at the departure point in London. This is a suggested itinerary and should be used as a guide only. The day to day itinerary may vary depending on the availability of sights and products. Admission fees are not included in the trip cost. Please check your visa requirements. Check in time on departure day in London is between am This itinerary is only valid if you are travelling before 11 November Page 8