European Grand Tour (2024)

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Hello and welcome to our page! Here we give you the details of our Grand Tour, a trip across the European continent that allows you to experience its culture and history to its full extent.

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Europe is one of the smallest yet most diversified and interesting continent in the world.

Discover its various cultures, lifestyles and 200 languages in an amazing two week journey across ten of the most remarkable cities of the European continent. Learn more about the history of Europe by going to places that define what it really is. It is not only a continent but also an identity, and we hope that this trip will give a clear explanation of what that is. You will see that History, world-famous sites and cultural diversity are what forge a strong national and continental heritage for Europeans.

On this Grand Tour, you will visit very different countries through various places like the romantic French capital, the singular city of Venice or the city of democracy’s beginnings, Athens. Sights such as the iconic Berlin Wall, the cradle of the Renaissance or important European facilities will be seen while you travel by train, boat, plane and even water taxi to these breathtaking locations. Have fun with European art, history and people during this unforgettable experience.

The trip will take a total of fourteen days, of which we let our customers choose who much time they want to spend in each city (with two to three days being the maximum). The starting point is in beautiful and sunny Barcelona, and the voyage will end in the historical megapolis of London.

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Barcelona is a one of a kind city, as it is one of the biggest artistic and cultural centres in the world. It is home to Gaudi’s masterpieces such as the Sagrada Familia, as well as 3500 works by the famous Picasso. Both artists have had a huge influence on the rest of the world and by leaving their traces in Barcelona, they made this city a pioneer of modern art.

Your first destination in Barcelona will be the Museu Picasso, home to the most impressive collection of the renowned artist Pablo Picasso. Admire and decipher the artworks of the infamous painter, giving you an interesting point of view on Picasso’s perspective and his ties with the city of Barcelona.

You will then head to the Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Familia. It is an extraordinarily vast though unfinished Roman Catholic church being built by the holy family of Spain. This is a perfect example of modernism, a philosophical movement that arose in Western Society in the 19th century. This beautiful building is very representative of the importance in art and culture that has always been part of Europe’s history. It mixes a jaw dropping, colourful interior with a breath-taking exterior, sure to offer you an enjoyable experience.

Gaudi’s famous Casa Mila will be your next stop, as it is certainly his greatest masterpiece. Its curious shape resembling underwater caves will leave you amazed and show you how creativity and ingenious ideas have always arose from Europe.

Another thing we recommend you to go visit is the Park Güell, a public park system containing both beautiful gardens and unique buildings that belong also to the modernist movement. Enjoy the peaceful nature and admire Barcelona from the highest point in the park, allowing you to take in the the feeling of this vibrant city.

These links will definitely teach you more:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=187&v=zYv2AcOfjcA

https://www.barcelona.com/fr/annuaire_barcelone/monuments_barcelone/casa_mila_pedrera_gaudi

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The second city you will visit is Venice. To reach it you will take a direct train from Barcelona, example of the freedom the Schengen Agreement and European Union have to offer.

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No place on Earth resembles the infamous Floating City; it is a city entirely built on water with a particular lifestyle. It has always had a large influence on the world as it was at the heart of the Renaissance and to this day it is well known for welcoming many artists who pull inspiration from its streets and canals.

To visit Venice you will take a water taxi through the Grand Canal. In ancient times, trading by travelling by boat was hugely done, which is a large reason why the city got so wealthy because of its many canals.This activity will make sure that you fully embrace the European city's ancient tradition of travelling by boat, while at the same time allowing you to witness the jaw-dropping beauty that this place has to offer.

Next you will visit the Servolo Insane Asylum Museum, of which the place it is on is largely known as "the Island of the Mad". Before being definitely closed down in 1978, there had been over 200,000 patients that had gone through it. The island was also largely used during the Black Death, as people infected by the disease were quarantined on it. The museum will teach you more about what happened there, and will allow you to learn much about the biggest plague to have ever hit Europe and other places in the world.

St Mark's Basilica will be your next stop. It is a Roman Catholic Church of which its structural design and details are a symbol of Venetian wealth. It is an example of Byzantine and Italian architectural influence on Europe. Go inside and witness for yourself the beauty and perfection this building has to offer, and you will see the importance christianity had in Europe's history.

Last but not least, you will visit the Flooded Crypt of San Zaccaria. It is a mixture of gothic and Renaissance styles, and is a magnificent ornate church whose crypt has been flooded by the ubiquitous waters of the surrounding canals. This place is a fantastic example of Europe's ancient traditions that are slowly fading from memory, but that still manage to captivate anyone who is curious enough to go back in time.

Here are some very interesting links for further information:

http://museomanicomio.servizimetropolitani.ve.it/en/the-museum/

http://www.reidsitaly.com/destinations/veneto/venice/planning/venice_getting_around.html

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Coming from a city like Venice, you will reach your next stop, Athens, by ferry.

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Greece has probably played the most important part in forging the Occidental civilisation. Athens is a good example of the huge influence Europe had on the rest of the world whether it is artistic (theater was invented in Ancient Greece), political (democracy made its debut in Athens) or architectural (the Greeks introduced some of the first architectural techniques).

Athens is a deliciously antique city, with traces of an intreaguing past Greek society. During your stop here you will be a spectator of 5th century BC historical monuments, such as the Parthenon. It is located on the Athenian Acropolis, and its name directly translates from ancient greek to "the room where lie the virgins".

After that, you will go to the Acropolis Museum (named after the Temple of Acropolis). Immediately after the founding of the Greek State, discussions about the construction of an Acropolis Museum on the Hill of the Acropolis began. Today, the site has a new museum that was completed in 2007, and reserves artifacts that are essential to learn and discover the history of the region.

Another activity on the list is the National Archaeological Museum, which is the main museum of this kind in Greece. It hereby hosts the biggest collection of ancient artifacts in the world.

Last but not least, we recommend you go see the Mediterranean sea, as it has taken a huge part in Europe's history. As the main interval for trade and cultural exchanges between places of its coastline, it has and will always be a way for Europeans to connect and cooperate.

Here are some links you should click:

http://www.theacropolismuseum.gr/

https://athensattica.com/

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Unfortunately, there are no ferries that go from Athens to Istanbul, so you will take a two hour flight to get there.

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You will then reach the magnificent Turkish city.
Istanbul, vast city at the North West of Turkey is a magical place where continents collide. Because of its advantageous location, it has for long been the heart of trade between Europe and Asia. In Istanbul, you will be able to enjoy the rich culture of a multi-religious city.

Your first stop in Istanbul will be the Aya Sofia. This venerable structure was commissioned by the great Byzantine emperor Justinian, was consecrated as a church in 537, converted to a mosque by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1453 and finally declared a museum by Atatürk in 1935.This wealthy monument surpasses the rest due to its innovative architectural form, rich history, religious importance and extraordinary beauty, whether it be from the exterior or the interior.
This monument is a mixture of different cultures and religions, making it one of the most renowned museum/basilicas on the globe. It is a symbol of European identity as it is partly a muslim monument, and in 2016 the EU's population was roughly 4.9% muslim.

After that, you will head to the infamous Topkapi Palace; Topkapi is subject to numerous colourful and wild stories. Whether it be wicked sultans, ambitious courtiers, beautiful concubines or crafty eunuchs, various people lived and worked here between the 15th and 19th centuries when it was the court of the Ottoman empire, and they have all left their trace. A visit to the palace's opulent pavilions, jewel-filled treasury and sprawling harem gives a fascinating glimpse into their lives.

For a change of pace, your last stop in Istanbul will be the TurkaZoo, the largest and most facinating aquarium of Europe. You (and your children if you have any) will have the possibility to discover and observe the exotic sealife. The area is also a center of marine research and conservation, showing how Europe is a place of knowledge and research.

Here are some interesting links:

http://topkapisarayi.gov.tr/en

https://www.visitsealife.com/istanbul/en/

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From Istanbul to Gdańsk, you will take a 4 hour flight.

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Gdańsk, city at the North of Poland; on the coast of the Baltic Sea, is a historical treat. The center of its main city was rebuilt after the Second World War, and in the colorful facades of the Long Market are now shops and restaurants. It is a very good representation of most of the countries in Eastern Europe.

The first thing you will be bound to notice are the buildings. Indeed, the city's main architecture is gothic , which is a style in art and architecture that appeared in France in the 12th century and later spread to other parts of Europe. It is recognisible through different characteristics such as cruciform shapes, cross-ribbed vaults, churches were mainly of basilica type or had a hall structure. Other characteristics are a specific skeletal constructional system: from the outside the building is supported by abramuses, while inside there are arches and pillars. On your visit of the city you will see the very famous St Mary's Church, and will be able to witness the beauty of this European style with your own eyes.

Next you will visit the Gdańsk Shakespeare Theatre. Gdańsk has had, in the past, whether it be in medieval times or more recently, an interesting theatre and opera sector. In the 20th century, Gdańsk was engaged in Elizabethan theatre. While the exterior of the theatre is clearly inspired by the city's gothic buildings, the opened roof is evidently inspired from the Globe Theatre in London, and shows a link between the two countries.

Your last thing to do in Gdańsk will be the Gdanski Bowke Cruise and Water Trams, which will give a fast and efficient way to experience the city from the water.

Here are some interesting links:

http://teatrszekspirowski.pl/en/

http://visitgdansk.com/en/corobic/Go-on-a-voyage-aboard-Gdanski-Bowke,a,107

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You will then take a quality plane ride from Gdansk to Berlin, that will only take 2 hours.

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Berlin will be one of the most important cities of your trip. It leaks with history dating from the Middle Ages to the Cold War. The city is multicultural; people from all over Europe live in Berlin, giving it not only a Germanic influence but also a more all around European influence.

Visiting the Wall of Berlin is crucial while in this magnificent city. You will be able to walk next to this empowering infrastrucure that was a key element in the tensions between the Soviet Union and the West. On the wall you will read stories of people who managed to escape from East Berlin, who were persecuted by the KGB and more. In 1989 when it fell, it was not only a moment of unity between the two parts of Berlin but also between Eastern Europe and Western Europe. It is hereby a symbol of division but also a symbol of Europe's unity.

Next is the Check Point Charlie Museum. We assure you that you will get goosebumps from the stories and artifacts inside and will learn much about the events of the Cold War, the division of Berlin, the ways people escaped the DDR and more. It will show you how Europeans are one and can never be divided.

You will also see the Memorial to the Assassinated Jews of Europe. Walk through the sones in silence and feel the pain and sufferences the n***s caused. What happened during the Second World War is common to the whole continent, and it is a part of history that all Europeans remember together.

We highly recommend you do a guided bike tour of the city, as the guides offer very interesting knowledge and it is a great way to embrace the true feeling of Berlin. On the tour, you will see many important buildings and places, such as the old offices of the SS, the square where the n***s did many of their book burnings, and more.

At last, you will be able to see the whole of Berlin by going up the famous Television Tower. It is an iconic symbol of Germany's capital. Built during the years of the DDR, the iconic TV Tower is now a symbol of the entire city. Enjoy the stunning panoramic views from the viewing platform.

Here are some useful links:

https://originalfreetours.com/berlin-tours/

http://www.mauermuseum.de/

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You will then fly from Berlin to Rotterdam by plane.

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Rotterdam is one of the biggest cities in the Netherlands and is famous for its port, the biggest in Europe. It is therefore very important, as it connects Europe to the world, with thousands of ships from around the globe coming into it every day. It also has one of the most important functions in Europe since it is a very active trading centre and therefore a strong asset for the continent’s economy.

After being completely destroyed during the Second World War, it had to be rebuilt from scratch and is now recognised for its modern and audacious architecture. During your visit you will be able to see the very famous cubic houses, Van Nelle Fabrique, Maastoren, Willemsburg Bridge and Erasmus Bridge. These infrastructures are a fantastic example of european creativity and engenuity, and shows that Europe has always been a place of innovation. You will be able to fully embrace the city's architecture by doing a guided tour of it (link down below).

Next you will visit the Maritime Museum of Rotterdam. In it you will be able to see ships from ancient times to today. It will teach you about Europe's history of colonisation and you will see that it concerns the whole continent. The Dutch were part of the age of exploration, as well as the French, Portuguese, Spanish, British, and many other countries.

The last activity in Rotterdam will be the Euromast. With this, you will witness the breath-taking beauty of Rotterdam at sunset. You will also notice the port and witness the dynamic economy of Europe with your own eyes.

Here are some interesting links with important information:

https://www.tripadvisor.fr/AttractionProductDetail-g188632-d11989931-Cultural_Walking_Tour_in_Rotterdam-Rotterdam_South_Holland_Province.html

https://www.maritiemmuseum.nl/en

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To get from Rotterdam to Brussels, you will only have to take a 2 hour Thalys train ride.

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Brussels is well known as the capital as Europe. Seat of the
European Commission and European Parliament, this city is a must to learn more about European identity.

You will be able to visit for free the Hemicycle and the Parliamentarium. Brussels hosts the main offices of the Members of the European Parliament. A visit to the Hemicycle is a great way to soak up the exciting atmosphere of the world's largest transnational parliament and find out more about its powers and roles. The tours are proposed in the 24 official languages of the European Union.

To learn more, you will visit the House of European History. it takes visitors on a journey along the path of Europe's history and challenges them to contemplate its future.

These various activities offer the possibility to understand how the European Union works, its origins, and the benefits it brings to its citizens.

Finally you will visit the Royal Palace of Brussels. It is the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians. It is open to the public every day in the summer. This place will show you a common style in art throughout Europe.

Here are some useful links to learn more:

http://www.europarl.europa.eu/visiting/fr/

https://www.brussels.be/visit-royal-palace

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To get to London, you will take the Eurostar, image of the simplicity of travelling across Europe and an example of the benefits of the European Union.

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As the first financial centre in the world, London’s dynamism is an example of economic prosperity and successful business in Europe. For this, you will be able to walk around the city's financial district named Square Mile.

The country's monarchy directly shows a diversity in political systems around Europe (as we may see on the map below, green for republics and yellow for monarchies). It proves that Europe is able to have different ways of thinking and functioning while always retaining peace.

A great way of seeing the country's monarchy is by visiting Buckingham Palace, as it is an amazing view of Britain's architecture and style. We are sure that, as this is not your first European palace, you will notice many similarities and probably think they are from the same architect.

Next you will visit Westminster Abbey, the main institute that runs the country. It will be a great way for you to witness a common change in European history, as the UK went from a complete monarchy to a parliamentary monarchy, like many other countries of the continent that used to be run by a royal family but that are now democracies.

The one museum that you must see in London is the Science Museum. As its name indicates, it holds over 300,000 instruments dating from the premise of science to today from across the continent. This includes objects of medicine, engineering, biology, computing, aerodynamics, and more. It shows how Europe has always been at the frontier of human engenuity and discovery, from the first engine to the Concorde or from the discovery of electricity to the discovery of DNA.

The last activity you will do in this city is visiting the Tower of London. It is a perfect representation of the Middle Ages in Europe as it is an ancient fortress. This place is enormously rich in history, at first it was only the White Tower in the centre and through the ages it expanded and progessively got more and more layers of protection. You will therefore travel through time, and will even be able to see the Crown Jewels. It also proposes live performances and has many artifacts of the Royals.

To learn more, click these links:

https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/

https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/

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To get to Paris, you will take the Eurostar once again, as it is a very cheap and efficient way of travelling between these neighbouring countries.

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Your final stop will be the beautiful city of Paris. Famous for the wealth of its art and rich history, Paris is an incontestable symbol of Europe’s different and international heritage.

Here you will visit the renouned Louvre Museum. In it you will discover the diversity of masterpieces from all across the continent, such as the well-known Mona Lisa from Italy, the Aphrodite of Milos from Ancient Greece, or la Liberté Guidant Le Peuple from the French Revolution. You will see that this museum is a goldmine of Europe's finest art.

Next on the list is the symbol of the french capital, the Eiffel Tower. On it you will be able to embrace the whole of Paris, as it offers a view of the entire city. This structure is a true example of Europe's engenuity and style.

Your next stop will be the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. This is truly representative of the continent, as christianity is a major part of its culture and history. Walk inside and experience the style of french gothic architecture and see where Victor Hugo's inspiration came from for his very famous novel.

At last the final place we highly suggest you visit is Montmartre, and especially the church at its highest point. This district is truly rich in stories of ancient times, and in the past many European artists have pulled inspiration from it, such as Van Gogh with his Montmartre paintings, which is a series of artwork that depict the place.

Here are some links you shouldn't hesitate to click:

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Louvre-Museum

https://www.history.com/topics/eiffel-tower

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Here is a map of the trip. We hope you will be tempted to sign up for the Grand Tour, as it will be one of the most amazing experiences of your life!

European Grand Tour

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