Europe continues to be a popular travel destination, with many of the continent’s countries landing at or near the top of most travellers’ “must-see” lists. From the ancient ruins of Greece to the aurora borealis over Scandinavia, from vibrant Spain to the rich history of Croatia and Hungary, Europe has plenty to offer foodies, culture cravers and history buffs alike. But choosing the countries and cities to visit is only half of the fun – how you see Europe is just as important as what you see.
Motor Coach – Touring by motor coach is a great way to see the key sights of a destination without having to worry about the details. Your accommodations and transportation are taken care of and, in many cases, you’re given front-of-the-line access to popular attractions. These tours often include special “insider” experiences designed to help immerse you in the culture of the city you’re visiting. You might step into the kitchen of an Italian chef, who will share with you his passion for cooking, or you could enjoy a banquet in a 13th century castle perched high above the Rhine Valley. With experienced hosts and local guides taking care of the details, you’re free to enjoy all that Europe has to offer.
Ocean Cruise – Picture yourself sailing the clear blue waters around the Greek Isles, feeling the warm Mediterranean breeze as you lounge with a glass of wine on the deck of your beautiful cruise ship. Or imagine cruising past the frayed edges of Northern Europe, with its breathtaking fjords and remote villages. Cruising Europe is an ideal option for anyone who wants to visit multiple destinations but only unpack once. With your ship acting as your home-base, you’re free to explore each port, take part in pre-arranged shore excursions and tours or simply hail a cab and set off on your own. At the end of the day, return to the ship and enjoy the world-class dining and entertainment that these “floating cities” have to offer.
River Cruise – If cruising appeals to you but you want the chance to venture deeper into the countries you’re visiting, river cruising might be for you. Specially designed to navigate the twisting river systems that cut across Europe, these ships offer many of the luxuries of an ocean cruise ship but in a smaller, more intimate package. River cruising’s popularity has exploded over the past several years and it’s easy to see why. Enjoy luxurious dining and accommodations onboard but step off the ship and straight into the heart of bustling cities like Paris, Vienna, Amsterdam and Prague – it’s the best of all worlds!
À La Carte – If you’d prefer the freedom to explore Europe at your own pace, there are plenty of options available. Arrange a car rental or public transportation passes, book your hotels and even purchase tickets to local attractions before you leave home, so you know that the important pieces are taken care of in advance. Your travel agent can make recommendations on where to stay, how to get around and what to see. Fill your itinerary to the brim with planned activities, or keep it open and flexible; hit the must-see sites or explore off-the-beaten-path gems – it’s completely up to you!
To get started planning your European adventure, contact a CAA Travel Agent or call 1-800-263-7272.
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