Overview
Immerse your students in the rich culture, history, and art of Europe on this thrilling journey from London to Barcelona. Your class will explore the impressive collections of the British Museum and the Louvre, discover Heidelberg Castle and Vatican City, and reflect on the impact of WWII at the Dachau Concentration Camp & Memorial. Your group will also visit the Doge’s Palace and embark on a challenging scavenger hunt through Las Ramblas.
Itinerary
Best of Europe
- Cultural Exploration
Day 1
Overnight flight to England (London)
Day 2
Arrive in London
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
London city walk
Take a city walk through the heart of London. Cross Trafalgar Square, a lively gathering place for the city, and step inside the National Gallery, home to masterpieces by da Vinci, Monet, and Rembrandt. Continue past the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square, and finish in Covent Garden, where markets, street performers, and the Royal Opera House showcase London’s lively spirit.
Classic fish and chips dinner
Enjoy a classic fish and chips meal at a traditional pub, usually served with a side of malt vinegar. From bustling cities to seaside towns, “chippies” are a beloved tradition and a favourite stop for locals and visitors alike.
Day 3
London guided sightseeing tour
Join a licensed local guide for an in-depth tour of London. See Buckingham Palace, where you may catch the Changing of the Guard, and stroll through Hyde Park, home to the famous Speakers’ Corner. View Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, then step inside Westminster Abbey, the coronation site of English monarchs. Continue to St. Paul’s Cathedral, Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, and admire the iconic Tower Bridge spanning the Thames.
British Museum visit
Explore the British Museum, home to one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of art and artefacts. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon Marbles, and the Sutton Hoo Treasure.
LEAP
LEAP Return or Remain: Who Owns Art?
The Parthenon Sculptures, taken by the British Earl of Elgin in the early 19th century, are now housed in the British Museum. Their presence continues to spark debate over whether they should remain in London or be returned to Greece.
Day 4
Eurostar Chunnel crossing to Brussels
Sit down in London and stand up in Brussels. Cross the English Channel on the Eurostar, one of Europe’s fastest trains. Faster than you can say anything in Flemish, you will be in the Belgian capital.
Brussels Tour Director-led sightseeing
Explore Brussels with your Tour Director, from the cobblestone Grand-Place with its gilded façades and 15th-century Town Hall to the playful Manneken Pis. Visit the Cathédrale des Sts-Michel-et-Gudule, then enjoy the city’s mix of Art Nouveau, history, and Belgian treats.
Travel to Amsterdam
Day 5
Amsterdam scavenger hunt
Take interactive learning to the next level with a Tour Director-led scavenger hunt through Amsterdam. Solve clues and complete engaging activities that bring the city’s history and cultural heritage to life, designed to maximise on-tour experiential learning.
Amsterdam canal guided cruise
Canals and crocuses. Bicycles and bluebells. With more canals than Venice and countless flower merchants, downtown Amsterdam bursts with colour and light reflecting off the water. Take a canal boat ride for the best views of gabled houses and nearly 1,200 bridges. Note: Cruises may be guided by a local or pre-recorded audio.
Anne Frank House visit
Take a tour of Anne Frank's house, where three Jewish families hid for more than two years during World War II and where Anne’s famous diary was written. Explore the secret annexe where her family lived before being betrayed and deported to concentration camps.
Day 6
Travel to Heidelberg via Cologne
Towering over the train station is Cologne Cathedral, which took centuries to finish, only to be scarred by 14 bombings during the Second World War. Admire the cathedral’s striking architecture and climb the 509 stairs to the South Tower for a great view of the Rhine. Nine bells are housed in the bell chamber, including the 24-tonne Petriglocke.
Rothenburg Tour Director-led sightseeing
Christmas reigns year-round in Rothenburg, a jewel along Germany’s Romantic Road. Walk the medieval city walls and visit the Rathaus on the Marktplatz, where a unique clock reenacts the legendary wine-drinking feat of a former mayor during the Thirty Years’ War. Across the square, the Gothic St. Jacob’s Church adds grandeur to this storybook town.
Day 7
Travel to Germany (Munich)
Dachau Concentration Camp and Memorial visit
Dachau, the first of Nazi Germany’s concentration camps, became the model for thousands that followed. Now a memorial and museum, it honours the 206,000 prisoners held here from 1933 to 1945 and traces the rise of the Nazi party, pre-1930s anti-Semitism, and the lives of those imprisoned.
Bavarian bratwurst dinner
Enjoy Bavarian- or Berlin-style sausage with traditional sides. Bavarian sausage is made from veal and pork back bacon, while the Berlin style features fried pork.
Day 8
Munich guided sightseeing tour
Join a licensed guide for a whirlwind look at Munich, from its medieval heart to modern landmarks. Stroll through Marienplatz to see the Neues Rathaus and its famous Glockenspiel, framed by the twin towers of the Frauenkirche. Visit the Residenz, then explore Olympiapark, built for the 1972 Games, and step into BMW Welt to experience innovation and sleek design.
Traditional Bavarian dance class
Discover the links between traditional dance and Bavarian history. Listen and learn Bavarian music while participating in ancient folklore storytelling. You'll also learn (and demonstrate) a variety of traditional dance steps taught by local experts.
Day 9
Travel to Venice via Innsbruck
Innsbruck city walk
Explore Innsbruck’s Old Town (Altstadt), where clusters of white-stuccoed homes with rustic brown trim sit against a dramatic Alpine backdrop. At the centre of the cobblestone streets is the Golden Roof, its 2,657 copper shingles gleaming above the balcony where Emperor Maximilian I once stood with his beloved Bianca, vowing to remain together forever.
Day 10
Venice guided sightseeing tour
Discover Venice with a licensed guide, exploring a city built on more than 100 islands in a lagoon off the Adriatic. Begin in St. Mark’s Square and visit St. Mark’s Basilica, completed in 1094 and home to the relics of Venice’s patron saint. Continue to the Gothic Doge’s Palace with its ornate arches before enjoying a glass-blowing demonstration showcasing the centuries-old tradition of Venice’s most famous craft.
Day 11
Travel to Italy (Rome)
Rome city walk
Discover Rome’s iconic landmarks. At the Spanish Steps, see the “sinking ship” fountain, designed that way because low water pressure forced the artist to place it below street level. Marvel at the Trevi Fountain’s Baroque grandeur, the Pantheon’s soaring dome, and Piazza Navona, where Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers anchors the bustling square.
Day 12
Vatican City guided sightseeing tour
Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, renowned for its sweeping colonnades and magnificent Renaissance architecture. Inside, admire Michelangelo’s soaring dome, rising approximately 138 metres above the ground, and his celebrated Pietà sculpture. Continue to the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s extraordinary frescoes, including the iconic ceiling and "The Last Judgment," stand among the greatest masterpieces of Renaissance art.
Authentic trattoria dinner
Enjoy dinner at a local trattoria and experience the welcoming atmosphere and flavours of Italian dining.
Day 13
Ancient Rome guided sightseeing tour
Step inside the Colosseum with a licensed guide, once the stage for gladiators, naval battles, and wild beast hunts, and explore the underground chambers where animals were kept. Continue to the Forum Romanum, the hub of Roman politics, religion, and commerce. Conclude at Piazza Venezia, framed by its grand palaces and the striking Victor Emmanuel Monument.
Travel to Florence
Traditional Italian pizza dinner
Enjoy a traditional Italian pizza dinner featuring a thin, freshly baked crust and simple, flavourful ingredients. Try classic varieties such as Margherita, with tomato, mozzarella and basil, or Marinara, traditionally made with tomato, garlic and herbs, while experiencing one of Italy’s most iconic culinary traditions.
Day 14
Florence guided sightseeing tour
Discover Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, with a licensed guide. Admire the Duomo with Brunelleschi’s dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery’s famed Gates of Paradise. Visit Palazzo Vecchio on Piazza della Signoria and step inside Dante’s House to learn about the poet’s legacy. At Santa Croce, see the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. Cross the Ponte Vecchio and visit a leather workshop to discover one of Florence’s most famous crafts.
Day 15
Travel to Lucerne via Lugano
Lugano city walk
Stroll through Lugano’s charming Old Town, where cobblestone lanes, colourful façades, and lively piazzas reflect the city’s blend of Swiss and Italian heritage. Explore the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, originally founded in the 9th century and later adorned with Baroque details, offering stunning views over Lake Lugano and a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural past.
Day 16
Lucerne Tour Director-led sightseeing
Explore Lucerne with your Tour Director, set against the Alps and green pastures. Walk the Old Town’s cobblestones to Chapel Bridge, a 14th-century wooden bridge decorated with murals, and see the Lion Monument, a sandstone tribute to Swiss Guards lost in 1792. Visit the ornate Jesuit Church and take in the charm of Weinmarkt and Kornmarkt Squares.
LEAP
LEAP Swiss Life and Legends
Experience the legends of William Tell, the Lion Monument, and the story of Swiss independence as history comes to life through vivid reenactments.
Day 17
Travel to Burgundy
Dijon city walk
Step back in time on a walk through Dijon’s historic centre. Visit the Palais des Ducs, once home to the Dukes of Burgundy, and stroll along Rue de la Liberté, the city’s grand boulevard lined with shops and cafés. Pause in Place François Rude, a lively square filled with local charm, and explore the Les Halles market, an iron-and-glass masterpiece that continues Dijon’s centuries-old tradition of vibrant commerce.
Day 18
Louvre Museum visit
The world’s largest art museum, the Louvre, is housed in a former medieval fortress and entered through I.M. Pei’s striking glass pyramid. Inside, discover masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory, along with vast collections of Egyptian antiquities, Greek ceramics, and works spanning seven departments. Please note: the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays.
Paris city walk
Take in Paris on foot, strolling wide boulevards, manicured parks, and lively streets filled with cafés and flower stalls. Cross to the Île de la Cité to view the storied Notre-Dame Cathedral, centrepiece of French history, then wander the charming Île St. Louis and the vibrant Latin Quarter, rich with student life and culture.
Day 19
Paris guided sightseeing tour
Explore Paris with a licensed local guide on a sightseeing tour of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Admire the Arc de Triomphe at the top of the Champs-Élysées, stroll the grand boulevard lined with shops and cafés, and see the ornate 19th-century Opera House. Look up at the Eiffel Tower, built for the 1889 World’s Fair, and Les Invalides, Napoleon’s military refuge, along with other historic sites.
Versailles guided excursion
Once the seat of French royal power, the Palace of Versailles was transformed by Louis XIV into a symbol of monarchy and grandeur. Accompanied by a licensed guide, admire the magnificent Hall of Mirrors, lavish State Apartments and beautifully landscaped gardens filled with fountains and sculptures. Visit Marie Antoinette’s rustic hamlet, where she sought refuge from court life in a picturesque village setting. Please note: Versailles is closed on Mondays.
Seine River cruise
See the city from the water on an hour-long cruise along the River Seine. The Seine cuts right through Paris, dividing the city in half. Spot the Eiffel tower rising up on the Left Bank, the walls of the Louvre on the Right Bank. A guide will point out other monuments and architectural marvels as you pass, many of which are illuminated by clear white light at night.
Day 20
Travel to Barcelona by train
Las Ramblas scavenger hunt
Take interactive learning to another level with a Tour Director-led scavenger hunt on Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s most famous pedestrian street. Complete exciting activities and solve fun clues, each designed to maximise experiential learning on tour.
Day 21
Barcelona guided sightseeing tour
Discover Barcelona with a licensed guide as you explore its mix of Gothic charm and modernist brilliance. Visit Plaza de España, then marvel at Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, the soaring church that defines the city’s skyline. Wander through Park Güell with its colourful mosaics and sweeping views, and journey to Montjuïc Hill, home to historic fortresses and the 1992 Olympic grounds.
LEAP
Spirit of Spain
Immerse yourself in the art that captures the passion of Spain. Compare the techniques and meanings in the works of artists from El Greco to Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso. Deepen your understanding of art history as you debate how these and other masters defined and shaped Spanish culture.
Tapas dinner
Tapas are believed to have originated when bartenders placed small plates, known as "tapas," over glasses of sherry or wine to keep flies out. Over time, these plates were topped with olives, cured meats and other small bites, giving rise to a Spanish culinary tradition. What began as simple snacks has evolved into a diverse dining experience, with each region contributing its own ingredients, specialities and cooking techniques.
Day 22
Gerona and Figueres guided excursion
Explore northern Catalonia with visits to Gerona and Figueres. Discover Gerona’s hilly medieval streets, pastel buildings along the waterfront, historic Jewish Quarter, Arab baths, and Baroque cathedral, reached by a grand staircase. Continue to Figueres, birthplace of surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. Stroll the lively Rambla de la Libertat before visiting the Dalí Theatre-Museum, home to an extensive collection of his imaginative works and unusual installations that bring the artist’s distinctive vision to life.
Paella dinner
Enjoy a traditional paella dinner featuring Spain’s iconic rice dish, with roots in the Valencia region.
Day 23
Return home
Optional Extension
Add 3 Days in Madrid
Explore Madrid on a city walk through Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de España. The next day, take a guided sightseeing tour to see Calle Mayor, Gran Vía, the Cibeles Fountain, Puerta de Alcalá, and Columbus Square. Step inside the Royal Palace and explore the masterpieces of the Prado Museum. On your final day, travel to Toledo for a guided excursion that includes the Gothic Cathedral, St. Mary’s Synagogue, and a visit to a traditional sword factory. Enjoy an evening of flamenco in Toledo before returning to Madrid for your flight home.
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing in October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more meaningful learning moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Select transport options that suit your group's needs
- Choose from a variety of accommodation styles to support your level of comfort
Dine Your Way
- Choose pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2 course meals at local restaurants or at your accommodation, with the option to upgrade to 3 courses
Inclusions
Accommodations
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions
Transportation to and from your destination
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Daily meals with options varying by program
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding multi-day bus drivers)
Entrance fees to attractions as per itinerary
Guided sightseeing tours and city walks as per itinerary
Scenes from Europe
Health, Safety & Protection
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
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