Fly Stay Cruise - 34 Day Grand Europe by Rail & River - Rome to Budapest

Your journey begins with an international flight from Australia to Italy, where you’ll enjoy award-winning service, complete with in-flight entertainment and complimentary dining.

Welcome to Rome! Your private transfer is ready to take you to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You can explore the city on your own to discover the most famous symbols of Rome, such as Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, Spain Square. Special Information Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed. If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel. This is an independent tour and you will independently make your way between destinations. On certain days, local guides will join you on day tours along the way, as per itinerary.

After breakfast at the hotel, the day begins with a deep dive into Rome’s ancient past. You’ll join the Imperial Tour of Rome, which includes a guided visit to the Roman Forum and entry to the Colosseum. As your guide brings to life the stories of emperors, gladiators, and the grandeur of ancient Rome, you’ll gain a richer understanding of the city’s remarkable history.The afternoon is yours to explore further at your own pace. You may wish to descend into the atmospheric Catacombs, where early Christians once gathered, or opt for an electric bike tour to see both iconic landmarks and lesser-known corners of the historic centre.As evening falls, consider a stroll through Trastevere, one of Rome’s most charming neighbourhoods. With its cobbled lanes and lively trattorias, it’s the perfect spot to experience local culture and cuisine. Overnight in Rome.Inspiring HighlightsColosseum & Roman Forum Group tour

This morning, head to Rome’s Termini station to board the high-speed train to Florence—a smooth journey of approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel before setting out to explore this celebrated city, known as the cradle of the Renaissance.The rest of the day is yours to discover Florence at your own pace. You might choose to delve into the city’s artistic legacy with a guided visit to the Uffizi Galleries or the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s renowned David. Alternatively, consider a half-day trip to Pisa to see its iconic Leaning Tower and historic centre.Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours. Seat reservations are included.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before joining an expert local guide for an insightful tour through Florence’s remarkable past. Over the course of this half-day experience, you’ll explore the city’s most iconic squares and landmarks, gaining a deeper appreciation for its 2,000-year history and enduring artistic legacy.In the afternoon, enjoy the freedom to continue exploring at your own pace—perhaps visiting one of Florence’s many renowned museums or venturing into the surrounding Tuscan countryside for a different perspective.Inspiring HighlightsCity tour of Florence

After breakfast, make your way to the station and board the high-speed train bound for Venice Santa Lucia. The scenic journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel before setting out to experience the city from its iconic canals on a 30-minute gondola ride, enhanced by audio commentary via your mobile phone.As evening approaches, immerse yourself in local tradition with an aperitif of cichéti—Venetian small plates—at a bacaro, one of the city’s many cozy taverns tucked along the charming calli (narrow lanes).Inspiring HighlightsShared Gondola RideSpecial InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours. Seat reservation is included.

Today you are free to explore the canals or surrounding islands of Venice on your own. Get lost wandering the winding canals, shop at the many boutiques or enjoy a gelato in one of the many piazzas.Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional group tour below.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before making your way to Venice Santa Lucia Station to board the high-speed train to Milan. The journey offers a final glimpse of the Veneto region before arriving in Italy’s dynamic fashion and business capital.Once in Milan, enjoy the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. Take time to visit iconic landmarks such as the majestic Duomo, the historic Castello Sforzesco, the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio, and the picturesque Navigli canals—renowned for their lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. For a deeper cultural experience, consider visiting the Teatro alla Scala and its museum, an inspiring journey into the world of one of the most prestigious opera houses globally. Alternatively, choose to take the optional tour below.Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours. Seat reservation is included.

Following breakfast at your hotel, board the regional train for a short and scenic journey—approximately 40 minutes—to the charming town of Como. Upon arrival, the day is yours to explore the city and its renowned lake at your own pace.Included in your experience is a hop-on hop-off public boat ticket, offering the flexibility to discover Lake Como's highlights from the water. You can tailor your route by choosing which picturesque towns or villages to stop at, based on the boat schedule and your planned return time to Milan. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the lakefront, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and take time to explore Como’s inviting shops and boutiques.In the evening, return to Milan by train and settle in for your overnight stay.Inspiring HighlightsLake Como Hop-on Hop-off Ferry TicketSpecial InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours. Seat reservations are not included. These trains operate on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing passengers to board with a valid ticket and choose any available seat.

Your day begins with a scenic regional train journey from Milan to Tirano, a picturesque town nestled at the base of the Alps. This comfortable trip sets the tone for the day ahead, gradually transitioning from Italy’s urban landscape to the dramatic natural beauty of the mountains.Upon arrival in Tirano, you'll board the iconic Bernina Express for one of Europe’s most spectacular rail journeys, continuing on to the Swiss alpine resort town of St. Moritz. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this panoramic train ride climbs steadily into the heart of the Swiss Alps, passing through stunning alpine scenery, peaceful valleys, and charming mountain villages. As you ascend to the Bernina Pass—2,253 metres above sea level—you’ll enjoy sweeping views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks.Once in St. Moritz, the rest of the day is yours to explore independently. This elegant resort town is famed for its pristine lake, luxurious boutiques, and refined dining. Whether you choose a leisurely lakeside stroll or to simply relax and take in the fresh mountain air, the experience is sure to be memorable.End your day with an overnight stay in St. Moritz, reflecting on a journey filled with natural wonder and timeless alpine charm.Inspiring HighlightsBernina Express Panoramic TrainSpecial InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 6.5 hours. Seat reservations are not required for the regional train from Milan to Tirano, but are included for the Bernina Express journey.

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before departing the chic alpine resort town of St. Moritz, bound for one of the world’s most iconic train journeys—the Glacier Express. Renowned for its breathtaking panoramas, this legendary route offers a deeper appreciation of Switzerland’s dramatic landscapes as it winds across 291 bridges, passes through 91 tunnels, and climbs over the Oberalp Pass at an elevation of 2,033 metres (6,670 feet).Along the way, watch as the scenery shifts from soaring peaks and rugged valleys to peaceful alpine meadows and traditional mountain villages—a visual reminder of the diverse beauty of the Swiss Alps.Your journey concludes in Zermatt, a postcard-perfect village nestled at the base of the Matterhorn. With no cars to interrupt the tranquillity, Zermatt invites you to slow down and explore at your own pace. Spend your afternoon wandering the cobbled streets, browsing local boutiques, or enjoying a warm drink in a café surrounded by snow-dusted peaks.As evening falls, settle into your hotel and reflect on the day’s memorable journey—an experience that truly captures the essence of Switzerland’s alpine charm.Inspiring HighlightsGlacier Express Panoramic TrainSpecial InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 8 hours. Seat reservations are included.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before setting out to experience one of the highlights of the Swiss Alps—the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. A series of cable cars will take you to the highest cable car station in Europe, perched at an altitude of 3,883 metres (12,739 feet). The journey itself offers stunning views, but the real reward awaits at the top: sweeping vistas of the Matterhorn and the surrounding alpine peaks.Take time to explore the Glacier Palace, a fascinating network of ice tunnels and sculptures carved deep within the glacier. Step out onto the viewing platform for a panoramic perspective that stretches across some of Europe’s highest summits.After the visit, return to Zermatt where the rest of the day is yours. Whether you choose to try some local specialities, take a quiet walk through town, or simply unwind, the peaceful setting provides the perfect end to a memorable day in the mountains. Tonight, you’ll settle in once more in Zermatt, surrounded by the calm of the alpine landscape.Inspiring HighlightsMatterhorn Glacier ParadiseSpecial InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.

After breakfast at your hotel, begin your journey from the alpine village of Zermatt as you board the train to Geneva. Leaving the Matterhorn behind, the route takes you through some of Switzerland’s most scenic landscapes—passing through peaceful valleys, along lakeshores, and past small mountain towns with the Alps rising in the background.On arrival in Geneva, you’ll have the afternoon and evening free to explore at your own pace. You might choose to walk along the shores of Lake Geneva, see the Jet d’Eau up close, or visit the city’s international district. With its mix of Swiss structure and French influence, Geneva offers a different perspective on the country.After a day of travel and discovery, check in to your hotel for a relaxed evening and a good night’s rest ahead of the next stage of your trip.Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. A connection in Visp is required which is well coordinated with short wait times of approximately 10-20 minutes.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before boarding a train bound for the French capital. This scenic rail journey from Geneva to Paris offers a relaxing transition from Switzerland’s tranquil lakes and alpine peaks to the vibrant elegance of Paris.Upon arrival in Paris, the afternoon is yours to spend as you wish. You might choose to explore world-renowned treasures such as the Louvre, wander the artistic lanes of Montmartre, or simply soak in the atmosphere from a sidewalk café. However you spend your time, Paris is a city that invites you to slow down and experience its charm in your own way.Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours. Seat reservations are included.

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your day with a panoramic bus tour offering a sweeping introduction to Paris. Travel through the city's most renowned neighbourhoods and past its legendary landmarks—from the elegance of the Eiffel Tower to the historic majesty of Notre Dame—while taking in the grandeur of Parisian architecture and city life.Next, experience the city from a different perspective with a relaxing cruise along the Seine aboard a glass-enclosed boat. As you glide past riverside landmarks and under graceful bridges, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s layout and charm.Your exploration continues with a visit to the Eiffel Tower, where you'll ascend to the second floor for breathtaking views across the Paris skyline—an unforgettable moment in the heart of the French capital.The rest of the day is at leisure, giving you the freedom to explore Paris in your own way.Inspiring HighlightsParis City TourEiffel TowerSeine River Cruise

After breakfast at the hotel, set out to discover one of France’s most iconic landmarks—the Palace of Versailles. Your day begins in central Paris, where you’ll meet your guide and a small group of fellow travellers before boarding a train for the short journey into the countryside.Upon arrival, you'll skip the queues and head straight into the palace. Led by an expert guide, explore the opulent interiors, including the royal chapel, the King and Queen’s private apartments, and the grand ceremonial spaces such as the famous Hall of Mirrors. As you move through the palace, your guide will share fascinating stories of royal life, court politics, and the everyday experiences of those who once called Versailles home.Following the palace visit, your guide will introduce you to the magnificent gardens before leaving you free to wander through them at your own pace. In the afternoon, enjoy time to explore more of the Versailles estate—perhaps visiting the Gallery of Coaches or the Trianon Estate, where Marie Antoinette sought refuge from court life.With your return train ticket included, you can make your way back to Paris at your leisure. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the city however you choose.Inspiring HighlightsPalace of VersaillesSpecial InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.

After breakfast we check out of our Paris hotel and make our own way to the airport for our flight to Amsterdam. On arrival in Amsterdam we make our own way to our hotel for an overnight stay ahead of the cruise. The rest of the day is at leisure to settle in, with time for a walk along the nearby canals or a quiet evening before boarding tomorrow. Special Information Airport transfers are not included today. You will make your own way between the airport and your hotel in both Paris and Amsterdam. Please note, today the independent rail portion of your holiday ends. Your river cruise begins tomorrow.

This morning we have some time in Amsterdam before making our way to the ship. We can take a final walk through the city or relax before boarding.We board the ship this afternoon, settle into our stateroom and meet the crew. The evening is on board as we begin our journey along the rivers of Europe.

After breakfast we have a full day in Amsterdam. We can explore the historic centre, the ring of canals and the museum quarter, or join an included excursion to see the city from the water. There is time to take in the gabled houses, the bridges and the squares before returning to the ship for the evening.

As we cruise into Germany we arrive in Dusseldorf on the Rhine. After breakfast there is time to explore the old town, the Altstadt, and the riverside promenade.

This morning we sail through the Rhine Gorge, the most scenic stretch of the Middle Rhine, with its hillside vineyards, villages and castles, a UNESCO listed landscape. We arrive in the wine town of Rudesheim, with time to explore its lanes and surroundings.

We cruise onto the River Main and arrive in Wertheim, a small town where the Main meets the Tauber, with timbered houses and a hilltop castle to explore.

Today we reach Wurzburg, in the heart of Franconia's wine country. The town is known for its Baroque architecture and the UNESCO listed Residenz palace.

We continue along the Main through Franconia's vineyards and dock near Eltmann, our gateway for a visit to a historic town and the surrounding wine country.

We arrive in Nuremberg, a city with a long history. After breakfast there is time to explore the medieval old town, the Imperial Castle and the market square.

We have a further day in Nuremberg to explore its history more deeply, with time in the old town and its museums and squares.

Today we cruise the Main Danube Canal, the waterway that links the two great river systems of Europe, and arrive in Regensburg, one of Germany's best preserved medieval cities and a UNESCO listed centre.

We arrive in Passau, set where three rivers meet, known for its Baroque old town and St Stephen's Cathedral. A full day excursion to Salzburg, with its musical heritage, may be available from here.

We cross into Austria and reach Melk, where the Benedictine abbey stands above the Danube. We then cruise through the Wachau valley, with its vineyards and riverside villages.

Today we arrive in Vienna, the former imperial capital, known for its Ringstrasse, its historic centre and its musical heritage.

We cruise on to Budapest, arriving along the Danube with views of the Parliament building and Castle Hill. There is time to begin exploring the two halves of the city, Buda and Pest.

After breakfast on board we disembark in Budapest. The rest of the day is ours to explore the city at our own pace before checking in to our hotel for one final night. We might walk along the Danube, cross the Chain Bridge to Castle Hill or visit one of the city's grand coffee houses. Special Information Please note, your river cruise ends today. The remainder of your stay in Budapest is independent. Airport and city transfers in Budapest are not included.

Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. After breakfast we check out of our Budapest hotel and make our own way to the airport for our flight home. Special Information Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal may offer the option to book your airport transfers for an easier departure experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

Our flight from Budapest arrives home today. Due to the time difference, we arrive the day after leaving Budapest, completing our journey through Europe.