08 Days - European Treasures without Paris

2026 USD Dates & Prices

DEPARTURE DATES	ADULT/CHILD	CHILD (2-11 YRS)
Sept - 07, 14	$2,070.00	$1,790.00

Price per person based on 2/3 adults sharing a room

Child 2 - 11 years must share a room with 2/3 adults

Infants 0 - 23 months price is from $530 for a seat in coach only

Max occupancy per room is 3 person (excluding infants )

$195 reduction will apply for 2nd child without a bed

Single supplement will be an additional $500

 

Discover general information about our tours by clicking here . Additionally, should you have any questions, our Frequently Asked Questions page may already contain the answers to your questions.

Country Details

Country	Capital	Currency	Visa Required	Time Zone	Electricity	Country Code
Belgium	Brussels	Euro	Schengen	UTC + 1	230V, 50Hz	+32
Germany	Berlin	Euro	Schengen	UTC + 1	230V, 50Hz	+49
Switzerland	Berne	CHF (Euro is accepted at many places*)	Schengen	UTC + 1	230V, 50Hz	+41
Italy	Rome	Euro	Schengen	UTC + 1	230V, 50Hz	+39
France	Paris	Euro	Schengen	UTC + 1	230V, 50Hz	+33

*Change will be given back in local currency

Currency

In most of Western Europe, the currency you will require will be Euros. When travelling in Switzerland, you will need Swiss Francs (CHF). It is possible to purchase items in Euros whilst in Switzerland (selected establishments) however it should be noted that the change will be given back in CHF.

 

Passengers should exchange any spending money for their holiday before they actually travel. Whilst on tour it is very inconvenient and not all places you will visit will have ATM machines or accept credit/debit cards.

 

We also advise our passengers to keep some change in coins on them whilst on tour as using toilets in many parts of Europe is not free.

 

USD, GBP or travellers’ cheques are not widely accepted at locations in this tour.

Distances

An important point to note whilst on a touring holiday is that some long journeys are unavoidable especially when travelling from city to city.

 

It is advisable passengers carry necessities that they may need for the day such as water, dry snacks, cameras etc. with them in their hand luggage.

 

For this tour, it should be noted that the travel times are extensive on this tour.

 

Please see a summary of the distances you will be covering below:

From	To	Distance in kms (Approx)	Travelling time (Approx)
Strasbourg	Black Forest	121	1hr 30mins
Black Forest	Rhine Falls	74	1hr 15mins
Rhine Falls	Lucerne	110	1hr 45mins
Lucerne	Engelberg	35	45mins
Engelberg	Padova	485	5hrs 30mins
Padova	Venice	38	50mins
Venice	Rome	546	6hrs
Rome	Florence	291	3hrs 15mins
Florence	Pisa	102	1hr 45mins
Pisa	Geneva	544	6hrs 30mins
Geneva	Paris	540	6hrs

Above is for indication purposes only

Major Attractions

Florence (Italy)

Florence, the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is the cradle of the Renaissance and a city of unparalleled art and history. The Ponte Vecchio, lined with shops, and the charming streets of the city centre make Florence a must-see destination for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the romance of Italy.

Lake Titisee (Germany)

Located in the heart of the Black Forest in Germany, Lake Titisee is known for its pristine, crystal-clear waters and beautiful natural surroundings. The nearby town is famous for traditional Black Forest crafts, including intricately carved cuckoo clocks, making it an ideal spot for shopping.

Mt. Titlis (Switzerland)

A visit to Mt. Titlis in Switzerland offers an unforgettable alpine experience, with its rotating cable car providing 360-degree views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks. Once at the summit, visitors can explore the Glacier Cave, a tunnel made entirely of ice, or take in the exhilarating Titlis Cliff Walk, Europe’s highest suspension bridge. Snow activities are available year-round, so be prepared for cold temperatures, even during the summer months. Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear, especially if you plan to explore the snowy terrain or take part in adventure activities.

Pisa (Italy)

Pisa is world-renowned for its Leaning Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts visitors from all over the globe. Located in the Piazza dei Miracoli, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is just one of several impressive structures, including the Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery.

Rhine Falls (Switzerland)

Rhine Falls, located near the town of Schaffhausen in Switzerland, is Europe’s largest waterfall, and its thundering cascades make for a breathtaking natural spectacle. Visitors can get up close to the falls by taking a boat ride that brings you near the crashing waters or by walking along well-maintained viewing platforms that offer various perspectives of the falls. The nearby Laufen Castle provides an excellent vantage point and adds a historical element to the visit. The paths around the falls can be slippery, so non-slip footwear is highly recommended for safety.

Rome (Italy)

Rome, the Eternal City, is a place where ancient history and modern vibrancy coexist. Visitors can explore world-famous landmarks such as the Colosseum, and Roman Forum, which are testaments to the grandeur of the Roman Empire. The bustling streets of Rome, are full of energy and charm, offering plenty of opportunities to savour Roman culture.

St. Peter’s Basilica (Vatican)

St. Peter’s Basilica, located in Vatican City, is not only one of the holiest sites in Christendom but also an architectural masterpiece. Visitors are required to dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, in respect of the religious nature of the site. Inside, you’ll find Michelangelo’s famous Pietà sculpture, the ornate Baldachin designed by Bernini, and the breathtaking dome.

Venice (Italy)

Venice, the floating city, is famous for its canals, gondolas, and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore St. Mark’s Square, home to St. Mark’s Basilica. The narrow streets and charming waterways create an atmosphere of timeless beauty, making Venice one of the most magical cities in the world.

Venice Gondola Ride (Italy)

A gondola ride through the winding canals of Venice is one of the most romantic and quintessential experiences the city has to offer. Each gondola accommodates up to five passengers, and gondolas will be shared.

Additional Excursions

Ice Flyer - The Ice Flyer chairlift sweeps you smoothly and safely over crisp, virgin snowfields and icy depths. Some of the crevasses are up to twenty metres deep. Only on Mt Titlis can you expect such a fantastic glacier experience.

 

Rome Night Tour - Rome's most beautiful sites to be admired at night in comfort of the coach and by foot. The subdued lighting of the Colosseum - the largest amphitheatre built during the Roman Empire, St. Angelo’s, St. Peters church and Piazza Venezia will provide you with wonderful photos.

 

Paris Illuminations Tour – The tour lasts 90 Minutes and takes you around the key sights of Paris at Night, see the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Concorde, Invalides and the sparkling Eiffel Tower from the comfort of the coach.

Hotels

Please note that not all hotels on this tour will have air conditioning or kettles. If you require warm milk for a baby, we recommend bringing your bottle warmer and milk supply. Passengers may also want to carry a small travel iron and hairdryer, as these amenities may not be available in all hotel rooms. 

 

In some European hotels, double occupancy rooms may consist of two single beds pushed together. We work with such hotels, so please be prepared for this arrangement. 

 

If you use additional services such as the phone, minibar, or pay-per-view TV in your room, these costs are not included in the tour package and must be settled directly with the hotel upon checkout. 

 

The maximum occupancy per room on this tour is three people. However, from March to May, some hotels may only accommodate a maximum of two people per room. 

Meals

 

Passengers can choose from various meal options, including vegetarian, or Jain. We ask that passengers inform the tour manager of their preferred diet on the first day of the tour. Meals are served as pre-set buffets, and menu choices are not available. Only tap water will be provided with meals. On some days, a pre-set continental meal may be served. 

 

Breakfast will be provided at the hotels, usually in a designated dining area, and typically consists of a continental selection including tea, coffee, bread, cereals, fruit, and yoghurt. 

 

Dinners are typically served in a separate dining area within the hotel or at a restaurant. If you have any concerns about the ingredients in a dish, please consult your tour manager. 

If you require specific allergen information, please get in touch with us in advance so we can assist you accordingly.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Points & Timings

 

Passengers are advised to arrive at their designated pick-up point no later than 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Your invoice will clearly state the exact pick-up location, address, and time. If you have selected a pick-up point outside of Wembley, Southall, or East Ham, your precise pick-up time will be confirmed closer to your departure. 

 

On the return journey from the continent, we are scheduled to arrive at Dover or Folkestone between 20:00 and 21:00 hours, after which we will proceed to the original London pick-up points. The anticipated arrival time in London is between 22:30 and 00:30 hours (the following day). 

 

For passengers using our pick-up points services outside of London, transportation may be arranged via private car, minibus, or alternative coach for your journey to and from London. In rare cases, you may experience a wait of up to an hour for a connecting transfer upon your return. Passengers will receive a confirmation call from Star Tours the day before departure to finalise details. 

 

Please note that Star Tours reserves the right to adjust pick-up times up to 12 hours before departure if needed. 

 

For a comprehensive list of available pick-up points, please get in touch with us directly for more details.

Foreign Office Travel Advice

For the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office click on the link below to get Country specific details

 

For a full list of the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office click here

 

UK Residents	USA Residents
Belgium	Belgium
France	France
Germany	Germany
Italy	Italy
Luxembourg	Luxembourg
Switzerland	Switzerland
Vatican	Vatican

Visas & Passports

When travelling to Europe, it’s crucial to ensure your passport and visa requirements are in order before departure. 

 

Passport Requirements: 

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Europe. It should also have been issued within the last ten years and/have sufficient blank pages for entry and exit stamps. 

 

Visa Requirements: 

If you are a national of India, Pakistan, or Bangladesh, you must obtain a Schengen visa before travelling. This visa allows entry into any of the 27 Schengen countries for short stays (up to 90 days within 180 days). 

Ensure you apply for your Schengen visa well in advance, as processing times may vary. 

 

Nationals of British, American, Australian, Canadian, and other visa-exempt countries currently do not require a Schengen visa for short stays (up to 90 days within 180 days). However, starting in 2025, all visa-exempt travellers (including British and American citizens) must apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering the Schengen Area. 

The ETIAS application is a simple online process that requires travellers to provide personal information and pay a small fee (€7). Once approved, the authorisation will be valid for three years or until your passport expires. 

 

Entry/Exit System (EES): 

From Early 2025, the EES will be introduced across Schengen countries. This system will electronically record the entry and exit of all non-EU travellers, replacing manual passport stamping. Travelers’ biometric data (fingerprints and facial images) will be/recorded during their first entry into the Schengen Area. 

Schengen Visa Details

Visa Details & Document Required	Embassy to Apply	Reason	Port of Entry/Exit
Applying from the UK (Click Here)	Italian	Max Stay	Calais, France/Calais, France
Applying from India (Click Here)	Italian	Max Stay	Calais, France/Calais, France

Weather

The weather across much of Western and Central Europe, including France, Germany, Belgium and Italy can be variable and unpredictable, like in/England. Regardless of the time of year, carrying an umbrella and preparing for sudden weather changes is always advisable. 

 

Temperature Variations: 

 

France, Belgium and Germany: In these countries, the weather can fluctuate widely depending on the season. Summers can bring temperatures around 25-30°C, while winters are much colder, often dropping below 5°C. 

 

Italy: Southern European countries, particularly Italy, tend to have warmer temperatures, especially in summer, when temperatures can reach 30-40°C. Coastal areas tend to be more temperate. 

 

Switzerland: Temperatures can vary dramatically in alpine regions, particularly in Switzerland. During high-altitude excursions, temperatures can range between 0°C and 2°C on mountaintops, even in summer, while lowland areas could simultaneously experience temperatures exceeding 30°C. 

 

It’s a good idea to check the specific forecast for each destination before your trip, especially on a multi-destination tour, as you may encounter different weather conditions in each country. 

 

Preparation Tips: 

 

Layered Clothing: Bring a variety of clothing layers to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day. 

 

Winter Months: If travelling in winter, be aware that daylight hours are short, and sightseeing often happens in the dark. It gets dark in Northern Europe and the Alps, sometimes as early as 16:00 hrs. 

 

Footwear & Accessories: Comfortable shoes, waterproof jackets, and cold-weather gear (for alpine regions) are highly recommended. 

 

By preparing for various conditions, travellers can comfortably enjoy their time across these beautiful European destinations, regardless of season. 

Wheelchair Accessibility, Child Seats and Passenger Information

 

We welcome passengers using lightweight manual wheelchairs on our tours, provided the wheelchair can be stowed in the coach’s luggage hold. Passengers are encouraged to contact us in advance to ensure we can meet their specific mobility needs. Our staff will try to assist passengers with reduced mobility in compliance with the Regulations. Please note, however, that a family member or companion will need to be present to assist with pushing the wheelchair throughout the tour. 

 

We will request accessible hotel rooms for wheelchair users wherever possible, but this depends on availability and cannot be guaranteed. We advise passengers to inform us of their requirements in advance so we can make the necessary requests. 

 

Please be aware that specific destinations, such as Mt. Titlis and the Eiffel Tower, are inaccessible to wheelchair users. Additionally, locations like Brussels, Lucerne, Lion Monument, Pisa, Rome, Venice, and Florence have cobbled streets, which may make it difficult for wheelchairs to navigate. Passengers should take these factors into account when planning their trip. 

 

Child Seat Requirements: 

In most European countries, it is mandatory for children under the age of 12 years or shorter than 150 cm to use appropriate child restraints while travelling in a coach. 

 

Children under seven years old or under 125 cm tall must use a child seat with a harness or/appropriate restraint system. 

Children aged 7 to 12 years or between 125 cm and 150 cm tall must use a booster seat or a seat cushion. 

The parent or guardian is responsible for providing a suitable child seat for their child. Passengers should ensure they bring the appropriate child restraint system that complies with local laws in the visited countries, as there may be minor variations in regulations across European nations. 

Other Advisories

 

Baggage and Packing 

Due to limited storage space on coaches, checking the baggage allowance for your tour before departure is essential. Ensure your luggage meets the size and weight requirements in your tour documents. Excess baggage may not be permitted. 

Pack a small day bag for personal items, medications, snacks, and travel documents to keep with you during the journey, as accessing the main luggage may not be possible until designated stops. 

 

Punctuality 

Respect timings during stops; there will be scheduled comfort breaks and sightseeing stops throughout the tour. Be sure to return to the coach on time after each stop to avoid delays and respect the entire group's schedule. Coaches operate on a strict timetable to ensure that all scheduled visits and activities are completed on time. Passengers who arrive late at any point may risk missing the coach, as drivers cannot wait beyond the allocated time for each stop. 

The tour may sometimes involve changes in coaches or representatives, particularly when merging with other groups. Please adhere to the instructed times for these transitions to ensure smooth coordination.

 

Coach Facilities 

While most coaches are equipped with WC facilities, they may be limited in availability. Using restroom facilities during scheduled breaks at rest stops is recommended to avoid discomfort. 

Seating and Safety: 

By law, passengers must wear seat belts where fitted. Seats are pre-assigned and given to you on the departure date. Seat requests are not taken under any circumstance. 

 

Personal Health and Medication 

Bring any necessary medications with you in your day bag. If you are prone to motion sickness, carry appropriate remedies or medications to ensure a comfortable journey. 

If your tour includes high-altitude destinations, ensure you are medically fit to travel at such heights. Those with heart or lung conditions should consult a doctor beforehand. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and warm clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly at high altitudes. 

 

Cultural and Local Etiquette 

Be mindful of the local customs and etiquette, especially when visiting religious or historical sites. Dress modestly where required, and be respectful of local customs and traditions. 

 

Electronics and Connectivity 

Some coaches are equipped with USB charging ports, but this is not guaranteed. Ensure your devices are charged beforehand, and consider bringing a portable charger/power bank. 

WiFi is unavailable on the coach, so bring along books, headphones, or downloaded movies and music to enjoy during long journey stretches.

 

Environmental Awareness 

Be conscious of the environment during your tour. Carry a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste, fill up at restaurants and hotels, and dispose of trash properly at rest stops.