Europe (8N/9D) | Orchid Tours & Travels (P) Ltd

Trip Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe, exploring iconic cities, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. This 8-night, 9-day itinerary takes you from the canals of Amsterdam to the medieval charm of Cologne and Heidelberg, through the breathtaking Swiss Alps in Interlaken, the sophisticated elegance of Geneva, and finally to the romance and grandeur of Paris. This trip is a perfect balance of sightseeing, leisure, and immersive cultural experiences across multiple countries.

Trip Highlights

Amsterdam, Netherlands – The City of Canals:
Discover Amsterdam’s enchanting canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture. Explore world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, stroll through the charming streets of the city center, and enjoy a scenic canal cruise. Amsterdam’s mix of modern cosmopolitan life and historic charm offers an unforgettable start to your European adventure.
Cologne & Heidelberg, Germany – Medieval Charm and Riverside Splendor:
In Cologne, admire the awe-inspiring Cologne Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece, and explore the vibrant Old Town along the Rhine River. Continue to Heidelberg, famous for its romantic castle ruins, cobbled streets, and scenic river views. These cities showcase Germany’s rich history, architectural beauty, and cultural traditions.
Interlaken & Geneva, Switzerland – Alpine Majesty and Lakeside Serenity:
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Switzerland. In Interlaken, nestled between two pristine lakes and surrounded by the towering Alps, enjoy optional adventure activities like cable car rides, hiking, or boat trips. In Geneva, stroll along Lake Geneva, admire the iconic Jet d’Eau, and explore the cosmopolitan city’s museums, parks, and historic quarters. Switzerland offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and sophisticated urban charm.
Paris, France – The City of Romance and Culture:
Conclude your journey in Paris, a city renowned for its elegance, art, and history. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Explore charming neighborhoods like Montmartre, enjoy a Seine river cruise, and indulge in world-class cuisine. Paris provides the perfect finale, leaving travelers with memories of timeless beauty and culture.

Who Should Take This Trip

Travelers seeking a comprehensive multi-country European experience in a single journey.
Culture and history enthusiasts eager to explore museums, castles, cathedrals, and historic streets.
Nature lovers drawn to Alpine landscapes, scenic lakes, and charming towns.
Those seeking a well-balanced itinerary of sightseeing, leisure, and optional excursions.

Trip Experience

Comfortable hotel accommodations in each city, selected for convenience and quality.
Efficient intercity transfers by train or coach, allowing for stress-free travel between countries.
Guided tours of major attractions complemented by free time for personal exploration and shopping.
Opportunities to enjoy optional excursions, local cuisine, and cultural experiences.
A thoughtfully designed itinerary that ensures memorable experiences, seamless travel, and cultural immersion.

Ideal Travel Period

Spring to Autumn (April – October): Enjoy pleasant weather, clear skies, and vibrant landscapes across Europe. Summer offers longer daylight hours and lively cultural events, while spring and autumn provide milder weather and fewer crowds.

Why This Trip Stands Out

This journey offers a rich, immersive European experience, combining the charm of canals and medieval towns, the majesty of the Swiss Alps, and the sophistication of Parisian culture. Travelers enjoy a curated mix of iconic landmarks, scenic beauty, and local experiences, making this an ideal trip for first-time visitors or those seeking a comprehensive European adventure in just over a week.

Trip Itinerary

Welcome to the Netherlands! Upon arrival at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or begin exploring this charming capital at your own pace.

You might stroll along the picturesque canals, visit local cafés, or take an optional evening canal cruise to admire the illuminated bridges and historic gabled houses — a perfect introduction to Amsterdam’s charm.
Overnight: Amsterdam
Meals: None

After breakfast, start your sightseeing tour of Amsterdam. Visit the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum to admire masterpieces by Dutch artists, and see the famous Dam Square, Royal Palace, and Flower Market.

Next, enjoy a canal cruise through Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed waterways — a quintessential Dutch experience. In the afternoon, you can visit the Anne Frank House or shop for souvenirs such as Delft pottery and Dutch cheese.

Optional: Experience the city’s vibrant nightlife or explore nearby Zaanse Schans, known for its traditional windmills and wooden houses.
Overnight: Amsterdam
Meals: Breakfast

fter breakfast, travel to Cologne, one of Germany’s oldest and most culturally rich cities. Upon arrival, visit the magnificent Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most impressive Gothic cathedrals.

Stroll along the Rhine River promenade, explore the charming old town, and perhaps visit the Chocolate Museum — a sweet experience for all ages. In the evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner along the Rhine.
Overnight: Cologne
Meals: Breakfast

Today you’ll travel to Heidelberg, Germany’s romantic university town nestled on the banks of the Neckar River. Explore the Heidelberg Castle, perched on a hill with sweeping views of the old town and river valley.

Wander through the Altstadt (Old Town), admire the Old Bridge, and soak in the city’s lively, student-filled atmosphere. Heidelberg perfectly captures the charm of medieval Germany with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture.
Overnight: Heidelberg
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, journey south into Switzerland, where breathtaking scenery awaits. Arrive in Interlaken, a picturesque resort town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

In the afternoon, explore the town’s boutiques and cafés or take an optional excursion to Harder Kulm, a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the lakes and mountains.

Optional: Embark on an unforgettable Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe excursion, where you can visit the highest railway station in Europe and walk through an ice palace.
Overnight: Interlaken
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, depart for Geneva, Switzerland’s cosmopolitan lakeside city. On arrival, enjoy a guided city tour including the Jet d’Eau, Flower Clock, United Nations Headquarters, and the charming Old Town.

Take a leisurely walk along Lake Geneva or visit one of the city’s elegant chocolate shops. Geneva’s mix of diplomacy, culture, and scenic beauty makes it one of Europe’s most sophisticated destinations.
Overnight: Geneva
Meals: Breakfast

Today you’ll journey to the romantic capital of the world — Paris. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a guided city orientation tour, covering major landmarks such as the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, and Place de la Concorde.

In the evening, take an optional Seine River Cruise, offering spectacular views of Paris illuminated by night, followed by a visit to the Eiffel Tower for breathtaking city views.
Overnight: Paris
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, continue exploring the wonders of Paris. Visit the Louvre Museum to see world-renowned artworks including the Mona Lisa, then stroll through the Tuileries Gardens.

Later, explore Montmartre, the city’s bohemian district, home to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and charming artists’ square, Place du Tertre. Spend the afternoon shopping at Galeries Lafayette or savoring French pastries at a local café.

Optional: Attend a dazzling Moulin Rouge cabaret show in the evening.
Overnight: Paris
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer to Charles de Gaulle Airport for your return flight, filled with beautiful memories of your European journey — from Amsterdam’s canals to Paris’s twinkling lights.

Meals: Breakfast

Cost Includes/Excludes

Includes