The Heart of Europe

Itinerary

Day 1 Rome

The Eternal City is a treasure trove of monuments including the Colosseum, the Victor Emmanuel Monument and the Pantheon. Make sure to leave enough time to see the gilded tombs of St Peter's Basilica and to crane your neck for a view of Michelangelo's vivid Sistine Chapel. Be sure to visit the Trevi Fountain.

Days 2-5 Lucca, Pisa and Florence

Travel by train to medieval Lucca to begin an exploration of Tuscany's many contrasts - from rolling hills and vineyards to Romanesque cities with vibrant cafe cultures. Enjoy a cycling trip alongside the scenic Serchio River. Then marvel at the sights of nearby Florence and the head-tilting Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Days 6-7 Cinque Terre

Weave through the pretty villages of the Cinque Terre, taking the stunning coastal path above the sea. Then cool off with a dip in the blue waters below.

Days 8-9 Milan and Stresa

After a short stopover in fashionable Milan, say ciao to Stresa, launch pad to the beautiful Borromeo Isles and their Lombard-Baroque villas. Why not take a cable car up to the top of Mount Mottarone for wonderful views of the Swiss Alps!

Days 10-11 Lucerne

Pique your curiosity with a walk through the historic streets of Lucerne. There is time to cruise the placid Lake Lucerne or ride on a cog wheel railway up to Mount Pilatus. For a taste of local culture, catch a Swiss folklore show and yodel the night away.

Days 12-14 Lauterbrunnen

Marvel at the magnificent Trummelbach Falls and take in the crisp alpine air. Be sure to indulge in traditional Swiss treats such as fondue and apfelstreudel.

Days 15-16 Dijon

Renowned for its fine wines, boeuf bourguignon and mustard, Dijon is also home to the Ducal Palace, which houses the art collection of the Dukes of Burgundy. A day trip to Beaune is a tempting introduction to the Cote d'Or, the land of gold, where the region's best wines are produced.

Days 17-18 Reims

Raise your glass to this historic city of champagne and coronations. Visit the champagne caves for an insight into the drink's effervescent magic.

Days 19-21 Paris

Take a scenic stroll along the Seine and soak up the romance of Paris. There is plenty of time to explore so wander the long corridors of the Louvre or climb to the top of the Sacre Coeur in vibrant Montmartre. Then perhaps enjoy a final feast before saying au revoir to this romantic destination.