European Affair & The Chelsea Flower Show

European Affair & The Chelsea Flower Show

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10 Days From

$4825

European Affair & The Chelsea Flower Show

10 Days Starting in London, United Kingdom and ending in Paris, France

Visiting: London, Amsterdam, Monnickendam, Bruges, Giverny, Loire Valley, Paris

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Luxury, Special Events

From: $4825

NB: Prices correct on 18-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through Europe with the "European Affair & The Chelsea Flower Show" tour. This enchanting adventure begins in London, where you'll experience the world-renowned Chelsea Flower Show, a vibrant celebration of garden artistry. Travel in style aboard a luxurious coach, exploring the picturesque landscapes of England, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Discover Amsterdam's historic canals, the bustling Aalsmeer Flower Auction, and the charming streets of Bruges. Marvel at Monet's gardens in Giverny and the opulent Châteaux of the Loire Valley. In Paris, immerse yourself in the city's iconic landmarks, from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe. With comfortable accommodations and expert guidance, this tour offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture, culminating in a memorable farewell in the City of Light.

Highlights

  • Amsterdam: Cruise along the waterways and discover the architectural gems of the old city, including 17th-century mansions.

  • Aalsmeer: Visit the colossal Aalsmeer Flower Auction, featuring over 30,000 species and selling millions of flowers daily.

  • Bruges: Explore the Market Square, the famous belfry, and the Gothic town hall with a Local Expert.

  • Giverny: Visit the house and gardens of Claude Monet, experiencing the vibrant colors and fragrant gardens.

  • Chambord: Explore the stunning Loire Valley and visit the famous Chateaux, including Chenonceau Castle and Chateau de Chambord.

  • Versailles: Visit the Château de Versailles, renowned for its architecture, grandeur, and extravagant gardens.

  • Paris: Experience the magic of Paris, exploring iconic sights like Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the Champs-Élysées.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive London

Location: London

Accommodation: Thistle Marble Arch, London, Hilton London Bankside, London

Accommodation Name: Thistle Marble Arch, London, Hilton London Bankside, London

Meals Included: Dinner

On arrival, you are transferred to your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore London. This evening join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a welcome drink and trip briefing before enjoying a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Chelsea Flower Show

Location: London

Accommodation: Thistle Marble Arch, London

Accommodation Name: Thistle Marble Arch, London

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a full day to experience the famous Chelsea Flower Show – the ‘mecca’ of all garden shows. A transfer in the morning takes you to the famous show! The Chelsea Flower Show will bring together the very best show gardens, flowers, and gardening from around the world. You will see magnificent floral displays, model gardens, English garden tools and a host of garden structures and artefacts. This afternoon a transfer back to your hotel is provided.

Day 3: London To Amsterdam

Location: Amsterdam

Accommodation: Bilderberg Garden Hotel Amsterdam, Jakarta by Westcord Hotel, Amsterdam.

Accommodation Name: Bilderberg Garden Hotel Amsterdam, Jakarta by Westcord Hotel, Amsterdam.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Departing London, we travel through the lush green Kent countryside to board our ferry in Dover, watching the impressive White Cliffs disappear into the distance as we cross to France. Our journey today ends in the Dutch capital of Amsterdam. The best way to see this remarkable city is from the water as you cruise through the canal district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the elegant merchant houses from the 16th and 17th centuries, their facades reflect when trade flourished during Amsterdam's Golden Age. Relax as you pass stunning gables, beautiful churches and the iconic Magere Brug, better known as the Skinny Bridge, with a delicious meal onboard.

Day 4: Monnickendam

Location: Monnickendam

Accommodation: Bilderberg Garden Hotel Amsterdam, Jakarta by Westcord Hotel, Amsterdam.

Accommodation Name: Bilderberg Garden Hotel Amsterdam, Jakarta by Westcord Hotel, Amsterdam.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey through the polder landscape to visit Monnickendam. Along the way, visit a rustic cheese workshop to learn the secrets of the dairy industry and witness the ancient art of clog making.

Day 5: Aalsmeer And Bruges

Location: Bruges

Accommodation: Hotel De Tuilerieen, Bruges., Radisson Blu, Bruges

Accommodation Name: Hotel De Tuilerieen, Bruges., Radisson Blu, Bruges

Meals Included: Breakfast

Experience the excitement at the very epicentre of the international flower trade! Each day, over 19 million flowers are sold at 'Bloemenveiling Aalsmeer', the world's largest flower auction. Witness all the action from a specially designed viewing gallery as traders bid against the clock for a mind-blowing assortment of blooms. A unique experience you'll remember forever! Meet your Local Expert from Bruges for a stroll along cobbled streets, lined with high-gabled houses from the 16th century. Visit the Market Square dominated by the 83-meter medieval bell tower, The Belfry of Bruges. Explore Burg Square with its ornate Gothic town hall and glorious frescoes on the walls of the Holy Blood Chapel, followed by a relaxing canal cruise before finishing the day off at the local restaurant.

Day 6: Bruges At Leisure

Location: Bruges

Accommodation: Hotel De Tuilerieen, Bruges., Radisson Blu, Bruges

Accommodation Name: Hotel De Tuilerieen, Bruges., Radisson Blu, Bruges

Meals Included: Breakfast

With your free day perhaps explore magical Bruges by Horse and Carriage? Don’t forget to try some of the tempting chocolates or beers for which Belgium is renowned.

Day 7: Monets Giverny

Location: Giverny

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Visit the house and famous gardens of the Impressionist painter Claude Monet. His passion was his garden, which is kept alive in the same tradition and is home to famous ponds with water lilies.  You have time to explore the gardens before departing for Paris, the City of Light.

Day 8: Loire Valley Excursion

Location: Loire Valley

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

The stunning Loire Valley is world-famous for its magnificent Chateaux, as well as beautiful landscapes and delicious wine. Visit two of the most famous Chateaux and be transported back in time as you explore them and their gardens. Chenonceau Castle, known as the 'Ladies' Chateau' it perfectly embodies the elegance of 16th century design in the Loire Valley. Chateau de Chambord, an awe-inspiring Renaissance chateau inspired by Leonardo de Vinci. As evening decends, the City of Light lives up to its name as the monuments, buildings are lit up in all their glory. For that special touch of excitement and glamour don’t miss the chance to join an Optional Experience to one of the world-famous cabaret shows.

Day 9: Versailles And Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Visit the Château de Versailles, one of the most beautiful achievements of 18th century French art. This former royal residence is world renowned for its architecture, grandeur, and extravagant gardens. With a Local Expert, explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris. See famous landmarks including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the facades of the Louvre. Stroll the banks of the River Seine and admire romantic bridges, and enjoy a drive along the Champs Elysée’s to the Arc de Triomphe. You are in for a memorable evening starting with a delicious Celebration Dinner serving delicious French cuisine and wine. Perhaps this evening experience a Seine Cruise and Illuminations tour?

Day 10: Farewell Paris

Location: Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your memorable journey comes to an end as you bid your Travel Director farewell. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08.30 and 11.00.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Stay in comfort at renowned hotels such as Thistle Marble Arch in London, Bilderberg Garden Hotel in Amsterdam, and Le Méridien Etoile in Paris, offering a blend of luxury and convenience throughout your European journey.

  • Luxurious Coach Travel

    Travel in style aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom, ensuring comfort and safety with onboard washroom facilities and complimentary Wi-Fi.

  • Dining

    Enjoy 4 dinners with wine and 9 breakfasts during your tour.

  • Transfers

    Transfers are available at scheduled times for flights that match the itinerary start and end dates.

  • Personal Radio Headsets

    Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

    Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

  • Luggage Handling

    We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.

  • Insight Flourish

    From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Experiences

    Optional experiences such as cabaret shows and Seine Cruise are not included in the tour price.

  • Transfers for Non-Itinerary Flights

    Transfers are not included for flights outside the itinerary start and end dates unless additional nights are booked with Insight Vacations.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom, ensuring comfort and safety with onboard washroom facilities and complimentary Wi-Fi. Enjoy ferry crossings and scenic canal cruises for a unique travel experience.

Dining Summary

  • 4 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 9 Breakfast (B)

Additional Included Highlights

  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

Insight Experiences

  • London: Experience the world-famous Chelsea Flower Show, an inspiring and enjoyable showcase of fabulous floral displays and cutting-edge garden design. Immerse yourself in colour and ingenuity as you enjoy the very best show gardens, flowers, and gardening from around the world.
  • Monnickendam: Journey through the polder landscape to visit Monnickendam. Along the way, visit a rustic cheese workshop to learn the secrets of the dairy industry and witness the ancient art of clog making.

Travel Director

  • "I love to see how guests react to Paris because, despite its fame, it still surprises. It’s a majestic city, which shines in the daytime and sparkles at night."

Well-being

  • Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a visit to the world-famous Chelsea Flower Show, a cruise through Amsterdam's canal district, a visit to a rustic cheese workshop in Monnickendam, and witnessing the flower auction at Aalsmeer. Additionally, you will explore Claude Monet's house and gardens in Giverny and visit the Châteaux of the Loire Valley.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides travel aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom, onboard washroom facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The tour also includes ferry crossings and scenic canal cruises.

  • Are there any optional experiences available during the tour?

    Yes, optional experiences such as cabaret shows and a Seine Cruise are available but not included in the tour price.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will stay in renowned hotels such as Thistle Marble Arch in London, Bilderberg Garden Hotel in Amsterdam, and Le Méridien Etoile in Paris, offering a blend of luxury and convenience throughout your journey.

  • What is the highlight of the visit to Bruges?

    In Bruges, you will meet a Local Expert for a stroll along cobbled streets, visit the Market Square and the Belfry of Bruges, explore Burg Square with its Gothic town hall, and enjoy a relaxing canal cruise.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Versailles?

    During the visit to Versailles, you will explore the Château de Versailles with a Local Expert, known for its architecture, grandeur, and extravagant gardens. You will also see famous Parisian landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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Friday - Sunday

May 23, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
$4825
Prices last published on 18-Oct-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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