Special Event Departures

Make your next holiday of a lifetime even more memorable by choosing one of our special event departure dates.
As special interest tour operators, we have a range of special departures and destinations to help you get the most our of your holiday experience. You can choose your holiday to coincide with a special event or a particular time of year.


We often have special holidays like seasonal short city breaks to some of the prettiest Christmas cities in Europe for a spot of shopping. Prague is particularly atmospheric in winter months.


Nature provides sightseeing of a different kind with wonders of her own. A trip to New England or Eastern Canada in the Autumn to see the spectacular, firework coloured foliage of the Fall will take your breath away as will the natural northern lightshow of the aurora borealis, best seen from arctic waters.


As special interest tour operators, we know that music lovers appreciate our special holidays to the famous jazz festivals of New Orleans and Montreal. We also offer a range of special tours to Graceland, home of the legendary Elvis Presley.


Special tours to America include the Wild West spectacle that is the Calgary Stampede and for those with a military interest we have special holidays to the battlefield at Little Bighorn and key sites from the American Civil War.


For more spiritual special holidays, we offer a trip to the Andalucian capital of Seville for the religious festival of Semana Santa or at the other end of the spectrum you can combine a trip to New Orleans with the wildly extravagant Mardi Gras.


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Holiday Options

We know everyone is different so we have a range of flexible options to make your holiday special.

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Our Available Holidays

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Highlights of Andalucia

8 days from £619

Departing:

13 Nov 2012
Cordoba and the Mezquita

Moorish architecture, citrus groves and flamenco - images of the real Spain abound in this mesmerizing sun-kissed southern province.

No single room supplement 13 November departure. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 13 Nov 2012

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Highlights of Andalucia + Costa del Sol
+ 7 extra nights from £339 Staying at Balcon de Europa

The Costa del Sol boasts 320 sunny days a year, miles of sandy beaches and has something to offer for everyone. You can extend your holiday with a week in any of the hotels in Nerja or Mijas. On day 8 (Tue) of your holiday you will be transferred to your chosen hotel for a week's stay before returning to Malaga for your flight home.

15 days from £1039

Departing:

16 Oct 2012

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Cordoba and the Mezquita

Spanish Fiesta - NEW

9 days from £755

Departing:

02 Nov 2012
The Great Mosque, Cordoba

A magical journey through some of Spain's most historic towns and captivating countryside, from Madrid to Andalucia, with the spirit of flamenco never far away.

Splendours of Italy

9 days from £809

Departing:

04 Nov 2012
Siena

A fascinating tour encompassing some of Italy's most historic and beautiful cities, combined with a visit to the famous Chianti wine region.

No single room supplement on selected 2012 departures. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 04 Nov 2012
  • 21 Dec 2012

View available holiday extensions

Splendours of Italy + Sorrento
+ 4 extra nights from £310 Staying at Majestic Palace

Why not extend your holiday with 3 extra nights in any of the hotels in Sorrento. On day 9 of your tour, transfer to your chosen hotel in Sorrento for 3 nights, before returning to Rome for an additional night. On day 13 transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.

13 days from £1189

Departing:

23 Sep 2012

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Splendours of Italy + Sorrento
+ 4 extra nights from £356 Staying at Grand Hotel Cesare Augusto

Why not extend your holiday with 3 extra nights in any of the hotels in Sorrento. On day 9 of your tour, transfer to your chosen hotel in Sorrento for 3 nights, before returning to Rome for an additional night. On day 13 transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.

13 days from £1225

Departing:

10 Jun 2012

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Spain, Portugal & Morocco

15 days from £1065

Departing:

11 Nov 2012
Rabat

An exciting tour which offers a variety of sights, sounds and colours - the magic of Spain, the elegance of Portugal and the mystery of Morocco.

No single room supplement on selected 2012 departures. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 25 Nov 2012
  • 16 Dec 2012

Elvis & the Southern Sounds - Christmas at Graceland

9 days from £1319

Departing:

15 Nov 2012
A sculpture from the ICE festival

Experience Graceland during Elvis' favourite time of year. You will be at the front gates of Graceland to witness the annual lighting of the Christmas decorations, including hundreds of blue lights along the driveway, a nativity scene and Santa in his sleigh. The interiors of Graceland will also be decorated for the holiday season with Presley family Christmas artifacts on display. In addition, you will see Nashville's ICE, an incredible attraction comprising interactive exhibits and colourful ice sculptures, hand carved from nearly two million pounds of ice by skilled Chinese artisans. You will also have the chance to see the famous 'Peabody Marching Ducks' at the historic Peabody Hotel - a tradition which dates back to 1933.

View available holiday extensions

Christmas at Graceland + Nashville
+ 2 extra nights from £116

Why not take the opportunity to discover more sights and sounds of this lively city. There is plenty more to see and do with all of Nashville's great restaurants, musical activities, antebellum homes, attractions and entertainment. On day 8 of your tour remain at the Holiday Inn Express hotel for the next two nights, before transferring to the airport on day 10 for your overnight flight home.

10 days from £1435

Departing:

15 Nov 2012

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A sculpture from the ICE festival

Christmas at Graceland + Las Vegas
+ 3 extra nights from £376 Staying at Harrah's Las Vegas Hotel & Casino

Extend your stay with an extra few days in Las Vegas, the connection to the King. From 1969 to 1976 Elvis performed over 800 times in the main showroom of the Las Vegas Hilton. Las Vegas in the 60's and 70's was definitely Elvis' kind of place. He worked, lived, played and even married there. On day 8 of your tour fly to Las Vegas and transfer to your hotel for the next three nights. On day 11 transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home.

11 days from £1695

Departing:

15 Nov 2012

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A sculpture from the ICE festival

Elvis & the Southern Sounds - Elvis 35th Anniversary Special Memorial Departure

9 days from £1609

Departing:

12 Aug 2012
Elvis' grave

Make sure you're in Memphis for Elvis Week in August 2012 to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the King's death.

New Orleans, the Old South & Florida Mardis Gras Special Departure

14 days from £1759

Departing:

10 Feb 2013
Mardi Gras

Don't miss this opportunity to visit New Orleans at its best - during carnival season! Experience the colourful parades, floats and costumes of "Fat Tuesday", try the famous King Cake, and don the traditional Mardis Gras colours of green, gold and purple. There really is no better time to soak up New Orleans' joie de vivre.

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New Orleans, the Old South & Florida Mardis Gras Special Departure + Orlando
+ 3 extra nights from £86

Extend your holiday in the home of world famous attractions such as Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Studios. On day 13 of your tour remain at your Orlando hotel, the Wyndham Orlando Resort, for the next three nights. Transfer to the airport on day 16 for your overnight flight home.

16 days from £1845

Departing:

10 Feb 2013

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Mardi Gras

New Orleans, the Old South & Florida Mardis Gras Special Departure + St Pete Beach
+ 5 extra nights from £246 Staying at Sirata Beach Resort

Time to relax and enjoy the silver-white beaches and warm Gulf waters that make St Pete Beach a popular seaside retreat. On day 13 of your tour transfer to the Sirata Beach Resort for the next 5 nights. On day 18 transfer to Tampa Airport for your overnight flight home.

18 days from £2005

Departing:

10 Feb 2013

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Mardi Gras

New Orleans, the Old South & Florida Mardis Gras Special Departure + Orlando & St Pete
+ 7 extra nights from £300

Combine the excitement of world famous attractions in Orlando with a relaxing few days in St Pete Beach. On day 13 of your tour remain at your Orlando hotel, the Wyndham Orlando Resort for three nights, before transferring to your St Pete Beach resort, the Sirata Beach for four nights. On day 20 transfer to Tampa Airport for your overnight flight home.

20 days from £2059

Departing:

10 Feb 2013

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Mardi Gras

National Parks & Canyon Country - Little Bighorn Special Departures

17 days from £2009

Departing:

27 Jun 2012
Denver, Colorado

Five of the USA's most impressive National Parks are the focus of this sensational tour, with a visit to the Little Bighorn Battlefield, the location of one of America's most significant battles.

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National Parks & Canyon Country - Little Bighorn Battlefield Special Departures + San Francisco
+ 3 extra nights from £340

There is plenty to see and do including the Golden Gate Bridge, Nob Hill and the infamous Alcatraz. Wander the crowded streets of Chinatown, a city within a city; head to Fisherman's Wharf to explore this colourful waterfront jammed with tempting seafood restaurants, cafes and souvenir stands. On day 16 of your tour transfer to Las Vegas airport for your flight to San Francisco. Transfer to your hotel, the Executive Hotel Vintage Court, where you will spend the next 3 nights before transferring to the airport on day 19 for your overnight flight to the UK.

20 days from £2205

Departing:

26 Sep 2012

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Denver, Colorado

National Parks & Canyon Country - Little Bighorn Battlefield Special Departures + Las Vegas
+ 2 extra nights from £100 Staying at Harrah's Las Vegas Hotel & Casino

Spend an extra two nights in this exhilarating adult playground destination. Visit the casinos, play the one-armed bandits, or enjoy a glittering show with top entertainers. On day 16 remain at your hotel for the next two nights, before transferring to the airport on day 18 for your overnight flight to the UK.

19 days from £1819

Departing:

26 Sep 2012

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Denver, Colorado

Prague, Vienna & Budapest

9 days from £675

Departing:

29 Oct 2012
Hohensalzburg Castle, Salzburg

Experience the rich legacy of imperial splendour, which lives on in the architecture and atmosphere of these gracious cities.

No single room supplement on selected departures. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 19 Nov 2012
  • 10 Dec 2012

Harvest time in the Douro Valley

6 days from £685

Departing:

26 Sep 2012
Douro Valley

Marvel at the verdant beauty of the spectacular Douro Valley and learn about the history and age old traditions of port wine production on this leisurely holiday in Portugal's lush wine making region.

Lisbon, Seville & Madrid

9 days from £695

Departing:

09 Nov 2012
Seville

Experience two of Europe's most captivating capital cities as well as the classical Moorish charms of colourful Seville on this memorable holiday.

No single room supplement on 9 November 2012 departure. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 09 Nov 2012

Images of Iceland

5 days from £699

Departing:

12 Nov 2012
Views over Reykjavik

Discover Iceland's cosmopolitan capital and spectacular natural sights on this leisurely four-night break with included visits to the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle marvels of Gullfoss, Geysir and Thingvellir.

No single room supplement on selected departures. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 01 Oct 2012
  • 08 Oct 2012
  • 05 Nov 2012
  • 12 Nov 2012

Additional 2012 departures now on sale!

Valid on Departures:

  • 19 Nov 2012 to 10 Dec 2012

Jewels of France - by Eurostar

8 days from £739

Departing:

05 Oct 2012
Mont St Michel

From breathtaking Mont St Michel to the famed Bayeux Tapestry - add Paris: elegant, romantic and exciting, and you have a holiday sure to please.

Best of Spain & Portugal

13 days from £899

Departing:

30 Oct 2012
Segovia's impressive Alcazar

A splendid tour combining the contrasting cultures of these two colourful countries whilst revealing their most popular highlights.

No single room supplement on 30 October departure. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 30 Oct 2012

Highlights of Germany

12 days from £1019

Departing:

05 Oct 2012
Court Church and the Church of the Holy Cross, Dresden

Enjoy all the best loved regions of Germany in one spectacular holiday, from the delightful beauty of the Black Forest to the wonderful 'Romantic Road'.

Cities of Eastern Europe

15 days from £1095

Departing:

21 Oct 2012
Warsaw Old Town Market and Mermaid statue - the symbol of the Polish capital

There's a wealth of included sightseeing on this splendid tour, which takes you to the historic and cultural centre of Europe.

French Panorama - by Eurostar

14 days from £1095

Departing:

16 Oct 2012
Rocamadour

Take in a picturesque tapestry of flourishing vineyards, chic cultural cities, rich historical heritage, and exquisite chateaux architecture on this inspirational tour through the heart of France.

Italian Showcase

15 days from £1169

Departing:

04 Nov 2012
The Trevi Fountain at night, Rome

Experience Italy's magical diversity on this journey rich in architectural delights, evocative scenery and cultural heritage.

No single room supplement on 4 November 2012 departure. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 04 Nov 2012

Splendours of Italy + Eastern Mediterranean Escape cruise

15 days from £1249

Departing:

28 Oct 2012
Siena

Combine a fascinating tour of some of Italy's most iconic cities with a cruise of the Eastern Mediterranean.

Quebec Winter Carnival

8 days from £1359

Departing:

06 Feb 2013
The Winter Carnival

A unique opportunity to experience the biggest Winter Carnival in the world - set in one of Canada's most beautiful and historic cities.

New Orleans, the Old South & Florida - Halloween Special Departure

14 days from £1670

Departing:

25 Oct 2012
Halloween

Join our special departure and revel in the very best of the Halloween celebrations across the Old South!

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Halloween Special Departure + Orlando
+ 3 extra nights from £94 Staying at Courtyard by Marriott Lake Buena Vista

Extend your holiday in the home of world famous attractions such as Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Studios. On day 13 of your tour remain at your Orlando hotel, the Wyndham Orlando Resort, for the next three nights. Transfer to the airport on day 16 for your overnight flight home.

16 days from £1764

Departing:

25 Oct 2012

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Halloween

Halloween Special Departure + St Pete Beach
+ 5 extra nights from £284 Staying at Sirata Beach Resort

Time to relax and enjoy the silver-white beaches and warm Gulf waters that make St Pete Beach a popular seaside retreat.On day 13 of your tour transfer to the Sirata Beach Resort for the next 5 nights. On day 18 transfer to Tampa Airport for your overnight flight home.

18 days from £1954

Departing:

25 Oct 2012

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Halloween

New Orleans, the Old South & Florida + Orlando & St. Pete Beach
+ 7 extra nights from £304

Combine the excitement of world famous attractions in Orlando with a relaxing few days in St Pete Beach. On day 13 of your tour remain at your Orlando hotel, the Wyndham Orlando Resort for three nights, before transferring to your St Pete Beach resort, the Sirata Beach for four nights. On day 20 transfer to Tampa Airport for your overnight flight home.

20 days from £1974

Departing:

25 Oct 2012

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Halloween

Native Southwest & the Rocky Mountains Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

15 days from £1865

Departing:

28 Sep 2012
Balloons lit up at dusk

Explore the deserts of the Southwest on this thrilling tour through Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah, taking in stunning Monument Valley, Rocky Mountains and the Grand Canyon; as well as the stunning Mass Ascension of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.

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Native Southwest & the Rocky Mountains Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta + Scottsdale
+ 2 extra nights from £100 Staying at Doubletree Resort by Hilton Paradise Valley

Spend more time in the beautiful desert oasis of Scottsdale. Play some of the USA's finest golf courses, pamper yourself at a spa, enjoy the shops and restaurants of its quaint Old Town or just relax beside your hotel pool. On day 14, continue your stay at your hotel for the next two nights. On day 16 transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home.

16 days from £1965

Departing:

28 Sep 2012

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Balloons lit up at dusk

Native Southwest & the Rocky Mountains Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta + Las Vegas
+ 3 extra nights from £284 Staying at Harrah's Las Vegas Hotel & Casino

Extend your holiday in the glittering desert entertainment capital of Las Vegas. Chance your luck at its lavish casinos, marvel at its incredible 'Strip' and dazzling Fremont Street or experience some of its legendary shows. On day 14, fly to Las Vegas and transfer to your hotel for the next three nights, before transferring to the airport on day 17 for your overnight flight home.

17 days from £2149

Departing:

28 Sep 2012

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Balloons lit up at dusk

Route 66 - International Route 66 Mother Road Festival Special Departure

17 days from £1975

Departing:

20 Sep 2012
Route 66, Albuquerque

This special departure includes Springfield's International Route 66 Festival with hot cars, cool trucks, vintage motorcycles, live entertainment and speciality foods.

Route 66 - Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Special Departure

17 days from £1975

Departing:

28 Sep 2012
Balloons at the Albuquerque balloon fiesta, USA

On this special departure, you'll be part of the International Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta - the largest in the world!

Historic Trails & Blue Ridge Mountains - Civil War Special Departure

16 days from £2175

Departing:

05 Jul 2012
A battlefield in Gettysburg

On this special departure visit historical battlefields and colonial towns, then marvel at the scenery of the Kentucky Bluegrass Country and the spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains. This special departure is highlighted by a visit to the Ford Theatre where Abraham Lincoln was shot, and a dramatic reenactment of the Battle of Gettysburg, complete with soldiers, cavalry and cannon fire.

View available holiday extensions

Historic Trails & Blue Ridge Mountains - Civil War Special Departure + Washington
+ 2 extra nights from £124 Staying at Crowne Plaza, Old Town Alexandria

Extend your holiday to see more of the sights, perhaps taking the Old Town Trolley that loops around the city, stopping at various museums and monuments. On day 15 remain at the Crowne Plaza Old Town Alexandria Hotel for the next two nights.

18 days from £2299

Departing:

05 Jul 2012

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A battlefield in Gettysburg

Historic Trails & Blue Ridge Mountains - Civil War Special Departure + Boston
+ 2 extra nights from £64 Staying at Holiday Inn Boston-Brookline

Walk the Freedom Trail and take in the rich history of the American Revolution, visit Quincy Market, Beacon Hill or take a whale watching cruise. On day 15 transfer to Dulles airport for the flight to Boston and your hotel, the Holiday Inn Boston-Brookline for the next two nights.

18 days from £2259

Departing:

05 Jul 2012

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A battlefield in Gettysburg

Heart of the Canadian Rockes Calgary Stampede Special Departure + Vancouver Staying at Sandman Hotel Downtown Vancouver

14 days from £2355

Departing:

07 Jul 2012
Calgary Stampede rodeo

Discover more of the pleasures of Vancouver the hub of Canada's West Coast and one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in North America. Extend your holiday with two extra nights at the Sandman Hotel Downtown.

Peru & the Treasures of the Incas

14 days from £2475

Departing:

06 Nov 2012
Machu Picchu, Peru

Wonder at the magical, awe-inspiring Inca sites of the Andes with its spectacular scenic vistas, then delight in the Spanish colonial architecture of Peru's major cities.

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Peru & Treasures of the Incas + Amazon Rainforest
+ 3 extra nights from £560

Your holiday in Peru would not be complete without experiencing the spectacular Amazon Basin, which covers more than half of the country. Your accommodation in the Amazon is at the stunning Ceiba Tops Lodge, in private rooms with bathrooms and air-conditioning. DAY 14 (Sun): Lima - Iquitos. In the early morning (appox. 3:30am) transfer to Lima airport for your flight to Iquitos. A brief orientation tour of Iquitos is followed by a 25 mile boat ride to Ceiba Tops Lodge. In the afternoon explore the beautiful primary rainforest reserve with its many huge trees festooned with epiphytes. After dinner enjoy an evening of local music or listen to the many legends told by the Amazon guide. (B, L, D) Note: Luggage allowance on the boat to Ceiba Tops Lodge is 5 Kg. The main luggage can be stored in Lima. DAY 15 (Mon): Iquitos. The day starts with a boat expedition in search of Amazon dolphins to the small village of the Yaqua Indians. Learn about their culture, how it was affected by the arrival of Europeans, see some of the local crafts and enjoy a demonstration of the blowgun, which is still used for hunting. In the afternoon enjoy a walking tour to the riverside town of Indiana, built up around a Franciscan mission, and stop along the way to see the immense Ceiba tree, after which the lodge is named. (B, L, D) DAY 16 (Tue): Iquitos - Lima. There is a choice of morning activities before a boat ride to Iquitos for your flight to Lima and an overnight stay. (B) DAY 17 (Wed): Lima - UK. Transfer to Lima airport for your overnight flight to the UK. (B) DAY 18 (Thu): Home landing in the UK. Note: This extension is based on standard accommodation.

16 days from £3035

Departing:

06 Nov 2012

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Machu Picchu, Peru

Six Countries, Venice & Paris

8 days from £575

Departing:

03 Dec 2012
The Grand Canal, Venice

Experience the charms of Venice and the vibrancy of Paris on this tour across six of Europe's most inspiring and unique countries.

A Taste of Europe

8 days from £575

Departing:

27 Oct 2012
Amsterdam

Sample Europe's wonders on this introductory tour, taking in an array of splendid cities and spectacular natural landscapes.

No single room supplement on 19 December departure. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 19 Dec 2012

European Jewels

10 days from £739

Departing:

26 Oct 2012
The beautiful skyline of Florence

Explore Europe's jewels, from the Romantic Road and sparkling Swiss lakes to Italy's irresistible charms and the chic city of Paris.

No single room supplement on 30 November departure. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 30 Nov 2012

Jewels of France

8 days from £795

Departing:

05 Oct 2012
Château of Chenonceaux, Châteaux Country

From breathtaking Mont St Michel to the famed Bayeux Tapestry - add Paris: elegant, romantic and exciting, and you have a holiday sure to please.

The Wonders of Europe

12 days from £855

Departing:

26 Nov 2012
Leaning Tower & Square Of Miracles, Pisa

Delight in Europe's many wonders, from picture-postcard medieval villages and vibrant, modern cities to the snow-capped Alps and vineyards of France.

No single room supplement on selected departures. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 03 Dec 2012

Europe's Highlights

13 days from £975

Departing:

13 Nov 2012
Trevi Fountain, Rome

Journey through the blissful, rural panoramas of Germany and Italy to the snow-capped Swiss Alps and picturesque France.

No single room supplement on 30 October departure. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 30 Oct 2012

Cosmopolitan Europe

15 days from £999

Departing:

27 Oct 2012
Würzburg

Immerse yourself in sophisticated cities such as Prague, Vienna, Rome, Venice, Florence, and Paris on this journey through the heart of cosmopolitan Europe.

No single room supplement on 17 November departure. Offer subject to availability.

Valid on Departures:

  • 17 Nov 2012

French Panorama

14 days from £1179

Departing:

16 Oct 2012
Carcassonne

Take in a picturesque tapestry of flourishing vineyards, chic cultural cities, rich historical heritage, and exquisite chateaux architecture on this inspirational tour through the heart of France.

The Best of Europe

16 days from £1179

Departing:

03 Nov 2012
Lake Lucerne

Revel in the best of Europe, from sapphire blue Swiss lakes and vibrant Amsterdam to Italy's medieval marvels and the beautiful French countryside.

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NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement, Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable). Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our air-inclusive holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme

© Copyright 2012. All rights reserved. All holidays and offers are subject to availability.