European Grandeur: Parisian Boulevards to Alpine Lakes
13 Days / 12 Nights
Paris, Strasbourg, Lucerne, Como
The splendor of Europe's most elegant destinations adorns this carefully planned itinerary that takes you on a journey you won't easily forget. The celebrated City of Light, Paris is your first stop. Walk past iconic landmarks, like the Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower, but don't forget to mingle with locals in lesser-known neighborhoods, either; that's where the true magic of Paris awaits. Visit the Louvre without the crowds and indulge in a romantic dinner cruise on the peaceful waters of the Seine River. Continue to Strasbourg and be enchanted by the city's rich history and fascinating culture. Don't miss the chance to get to know the stunning region of Alsace on a day trip from Strasbourg before you cross the border to Switzerland, and more specifically, Lucerne. While there, the picture-perfect Old Town will leave you speechless, and so will the monumental Bourbaki Panorama, a panoramic painting that narrates history in the most eloquent way. No trip to get a taste of Europe's grandeur would be complete without a glimpse of Italy. Your last stop is the enchanting Lake Como. Between spectacular boat rides, delicious local dishes, and romantic strolls through dreamy gardens and beautiful villas, you'll vow to go back before too long.
One of our team members in France or Italy will be available to answer any questions and arrange local services leading up to and during your trip. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (whom you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.
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What's Included
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Paris
Strasbourg
Lucerne
Como
package excludes:
- Flights from and to your home country.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your destination-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.3 Nights in Paris
3 Nights in Paris
3 Nights in Paris
Paris is situated in the northern part of France. The city sprawls over both banks of the Seine River and on two islands: the Îles Saint Louis and the larger Île de la Cité. The historical city center is built around the Seine, and it has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. For a glimpse into the oldest part of Paris, take a stroll along the Seine and around the 1st and 4th districts to admire iconic landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris or the Louvre Museum, among others. But leave some space and time for the rest of the city's districts, as each of Paris' 20 arrondissements possesses incredible treasures to discover.
Paris is situated in the northern part of France. The city sprawls over both banks of the Seine River and on two islands: the Îles Saint Louis and the larger Île de la Cité. The historical city center is built around the Seine, and it has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. For a glimpse into the oldest part of Paris, take a stroll along the Seine and around the 1st and 4th districts to admire iconic landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris or the Louvre Museum, among others. But leave some space and time for the rest of the city's districts, as each of Paris' 20 arrondissements possesses incredible treasures to discover.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Paris
Welcome to Paris! We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and drive you to your centrally located accommodation. The journey time to the city center is about one hour.
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Paris
Heart of Paris Group Tour
Get ready to discover the magic of Paris in just three hours. This group walking tour takes you on a journey through the historic heart of Paris, past landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte Chapelle. You'll pass by the Latin Quarter, enjoy a laid-back cruise along the Seine, and find out the city's history in the most memorable way.
Moulin Rouge Evening Show & Dinner
When in Paris, there's nothing quite as iconic as having dinner and enjoying one of the world's most-renowned shows at the Moulin Rouge. Famous for its unique cabaret performances, extravagant sets and costumes, and lively ambiance, the Moulin Rouge promises an unforgettable experience.
Enjoying Paris Like a Local
While visiting Paris' iconic attractions is a must, exploring lesser-known districts, often frequented by locals, adds a unique charm to your trip. Cour du Commerce St-André and Canal Saint-Martin offer an authentic glimpse into the lives of Parisians. For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, Belleville stands out, providing an opportunity to mingle with locals over a glass of wine or indulge in mouthwatering local cuisine. To enhance your authentic Parisian experience, consider a picnic at Buttes-Chaumont, where you can savor delightful local treats amidst the scenic beauty of this hidden gem.
Day 3
Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Paris
Closing Time at the Louvre Group Tour - Mona Lisa at Her Most Peaceful
On this tour, you can visit the Louvre without the big crowds that flock to the world-renowned museum as you'll visit the Louvre near its closing time. This allows you to marvel at the Mona Lisa in its most peaceful state. Yet, the magic doesn't stop there. During this three-hour tour, you'll be shown around the best of the museum's collection and even glimpse the building's moat foundations. All this is in the company of an expert local guide who'll ensure your experience is truly unique.
Seine Boat Group Cruise Experience Including Dinner (Privilège Service)
Step into a refined atmosphere aboard an all-glass boat. Enter the secret world of Paris and enjoy a magical evening of French gastronomy as you sail past gorgeous monuments illuminated to perfection. The discrete and attentive service only adds to an overall unforgettable cruise experience.
Day 4
Day 4 - Traveling to Strasbourg by Train
It's time to say au revoir to Paris today and head to another exciting French city: Strasbourg. We will arrange your transfer to the train station and provide you with second-class train tickets. If you prefer, you can upgrade to first class for an additional fee. There are several train departures to Strasbourg daily, and you can choose your preferred departure time. The train ride lasts about two hours.
3 Nights in Strasbourg
3 Nights in Strasbourg
3 Nights in Strasbourg
The largest city in eastern France, Strasbourg is the official seat of the European Parliament. It also hosts the European Council, among other EU institutions. Strasbourg is situated in Alsace, a cultural region in eastern France, just a stone's throw from the country's borders with Germany. Since the 17th century, the Germans and the French took turns ruling the region, which resulted in an unparalleled blend of cultures. German traits remain in the more traditional aspects of life, such as cuisine and architecture, whereas modern institutions are dominated by French culture. Alsace is famous for its quaint villages and stunning architecture, but also for the wine, beer, and fruit liquors produced there.
The largest city in eastern France, Strasbourg is the official seat of the European Parliament. It also hosts the European Council, among other EU institutions. Strasbourg is situated in Alsace, a cultural region in eastern France, just a stone's throw from the country's borders with Germany. Since the 17th century, the Germans and the French took turns ruling the region, which resulted in an unparalleled blend of cultures. German traits remain in the more traditional aspects of life, such as cuisine and architecture, whereas modern institutions are dominated by French culture. Alsace is famous for its quaint villages and stunning architecture, but also for the wine, beer, and fruit liquors produced there.
Day 4
Day 4 - Arrival in Strasbourg
When you arrive at the train station in Strasbourg, a driver will be waiting for you to take you to your accommodation.
Day 5
Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Strasbourg
A Stroll Around Strasbourg
Strasbourg's Collections of Art and History
Strasbourg has a very rich cultural scene that includes a wide variety of top-quality museums dedicated to archaeology, history, modern art, and the culture of the region itself. While in Strasbourg, it's worth spending a few hours at one or more of the city's fine museums, among which the Musée Alsacien, the Musée Historique de Strasbourg, and the Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain stand out.
Day 6
Day 6 - Your Second Full Day in Strasbourg
Colmar, Riquewihr, and Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle Small Group Day Trip
This is the essential one-day experience in Alsace you can't miss if you want to make the best of your stay in Strasbourg. Visit the enchanting Colmar and Eguisheim villages to get lost in their charming cobblestone streets. Enjoy some free time for lunch and wine tasting in stunning Riquewihr before you get a glimpse of the Haut Koenigsbourg Castle in the company of your guide.
Day 7
Day 7 - Traveling to Lucerne by Private Transfer
Today, you’ll be leaving Strasbourg for the picturesque city of Lucerne, set on the shores of Lake Lucerne and surrounded by the Swiss Alps. Your private driver will pick you up from your accommodation at the agreed-upon time. The journey takes approximately three hours, giving you the chance to relax in comfort and enjoy the scenic drive as you transition from the French countryside into the breathtaking landscapes of Switzerland.
3 Nights in Lucerne
3 Nights in Lucerne
3 Nights in Lucerne
If you only have time for one spot in central Switzerland, make it Lucerne. This charming lakeside town offers a memorable mountain panorama. The town's standout landmark is the 12th century Chapel Bridge (Europe's oldest covered bridge), which runs past the unique octagonal Water Tower. Visitors also tend to make a beeline for the Lion Monument, carved into a cliff, which commemorates the Swiss Guards who sacrificed their lives for the royal family during the French Revolution. Make sure to stop by the lesser-known covered Spreuer Bridge, with its Danse Macabre plaques. If you're fond of classical music, you're more than in luck, as the city offers frequent performances.
If you only have time for one spot in central Switzerland, make it Lucerne. This charming lakeside town offers a memorable mountain panorama. The town's standout landmark is the 12th century Chapel Bridge (Europe's oldest covered bridge), which runs past the unique octagonal Water Tower. Visitors also tend to make a beeline for the Lion Monument, carved into a cliff, which commemorates the Swiss Guards who sacrificed their lives for the royal family during the French Revolution. Make sure to stop by the lesser-known covered Spreuer Bridge, with its Danse Macabre plaques. If you're fond of classical music, you're more than in luck, as the city offers frequent performances.
Day 7
Day 7 - Arrival in Lucerne
Your driver will take you to your accommodations in Lucerne.
Lucerne, Love, and Luxury
Lucerne's breathtaking beauty truly sets it apart as one of the world’s most enchanting cities. After checking into your accommodations, immerse yourself in its charm by taking a leisurely walk through the Old Town and across the picturesque Chapel Bridge. If you're up for a bit more adventure, climb the Musegg Wall for stunning views of the city and its scenic surroundings. To cap off your day, savor an aperitif or enjoy a traditional fondue, a local specialty. For an exceptional dining experience, consider the Schiff or Fondue House Du Pont restaurants.
Day 8
Day 8 - Your First Full Day in Lucerne
City and Fondue Private eTuk-Tuk Tour
Discover Lucerne by electric tuktuk and experience the city as the locals do, with one of them as your chauffeur and guide. Be taken from the charming Old Town to the shopping district, on to Switzerland’s most famous wooden bridge, the Chapel Bridge. Have your chauffeur let you in on Lucerne’s secrets, and discover Lucerne's diversity. This tour is not only about sightseeing, as you will also stop at the Falken Fondue House to try delicious fondue, with bread, potatoes and Swiss wine.
A Monumental Must-See
One of the most impressive attractions in Lucerne, the monumental Bourbaki Panorama, is a panoramic painting depicting the French Army's internment at the end of the French-Prussian War. Listed as a cultural property of national significance in Switzerland, the painting is protected by glass, and visitors can marvel at it from a circular wooden platform.
Day 9
Day 9 - Your Second Full Day in Lucerne
Mt. Pilatus Self-Guided Tour
This self-guided tour takes you up to Mt. Pilatus, 2,132m (7,000 feet) above sea level, with stunning views of the Swiss plain and the Alps. In summer, you’ll likely start with a boat ride on Lake Lucerne, then ride the world’s steepest cogwheel train, and return by cableway and gondola. In winter, you'll take a bus to Kriens, followed by a gondola and cableway to the summit, returning the same way. Tickets and transport are all arranged, ensuring a seamless journey with breathtaking views year-round.
Day 10
Day 10 - Traveling to Como by Train
Today, you will travel by train from Lucerne to Lake Como. We will arrange for a driver to pick you up from your accommodations in Lucerne and take you to the train station. The train journey takes about 2 hours. We have included second-class train tickets in your travel package, but an upgrade to a higher class may be possible for an extra fee.
3 Nights in Como
3 Nights in Como
3 Nights in Como
Surrounded by stunning green hills, Como is the famous lake's main town. Dotted with charming squares, imposing churches, and gorgeous historical buildings, Como's Old Town overlooks the mesmerizingly beautiful Lake Como. For theater lovers, the Teatro Sociale di Como, the town's opera house, has hosted world-renowned musicians, such as Liszt and Paganini. Combining the magic of a typically Italian town with the utter beauty of the scenery that engulfs it, Como serves as the perfect base to explore the extended area of Lake Como and its charms.
Surrounded by stunning green hills, Como is the famous lake's main town. Dotted with charming squares, imposing churches, and gorgeous historical buildings, Como's Old Town overlooks the mesmerizingly beautiful Lake Como. For theater lovers, the Teatro Sociale di Como, the town's opera house, has hosted world-renowned musicians, such as Liszt and Paganini. Combining the magic of a typically Italian town with the utter beauty of the scenery that engulfs it, Como serves as the perfect base to explore the extended area of Lake Como and its charms.
Day 10
Day 10 - Arrival in Como
Day 11
Day 11 - Your First Full Day in Como
Best of Como Lakeside Private Driving Tour (from Como Town)
Exploring Lake Como with a local at the wheel ensures you don't miss any must-see sights. Beginning in Bellagio, the journey unveils treasures like the lakefront Villa d'Este, George Clooney's residence in Laglio, and the ancient port of Brenno, among other stunning spots. Your itinerary allows for a leisurely lunch break at a local gem chosen by your driver. While some enticing side trips may involve water taxis or ferries, their costs are separate from the day trip. Additionally, if you opt to step inside the villas and museums, entrance fees are to be paid on-site.
Day 12
Day 12 - Your Second Full Day in Como
Group Food Tour in Como
Discover the real flavors of Lake Como on a food tour guided by a local expert. Avoid tourist spots and eat where the locals do, tasting seasonal dishes made with high-quality ingredients. Visit family-run trattorias and hidden gems known for authentic cuisine. Enjoy a full meal in a relaxed setting, sharing the experience with fellow food lovers.
1-Hour Lake Como Private Boat Tour
Experience the beauty of Lake Como aboard a private boat on this 1-hour excursion, exploring iconic villas and charming villages along the shore. Visit picturesque spots like Blevio, Torno, and the renowned Villa Balbianello, famous for its appearances in Star Wars and James Bond films. Cruise past historic villas, including George Clooney's Villa Oleandra, and admire the elegant streets and gardens of Bellagio and Tremezzo, concluding with a view of the luxurious Villa d'Este in Cernobbio.
Villa Carlotta - A Historic Museum and Botanical Gem to be Discovered Near Como
Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, situated on the western shore of Lake Como, is a must-visit destination that combines art, history, and nature. This 17th-century villa is famous for its beautifully landscaped botanical gardens and an exceptional art collection featuring works by Antonio Canova and Francesco Hayez. As you explore the elegant interiors and peaceful gardens, you'll enjoy a unique blend of culture and natural beauty. Villa Carlotta is easily accessible from Como, either by car in about 40 minutes or by ferry in roughly an hour, offering stunning lake views along the way.
Day 13
Day 13 - Departure Day
Sadly your Italian adventure is over and it's time to say arrivederci, for you'll sure be back! We will arrange for a driver to take you from your accommodation on Lake Como to Milan's Malpensa airport in plenty of time for your departing flight.
Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
Average of our Guest's Ratings of tour packages including these destinations
We have taken three trips so far with JayWay, which says it all but I'll continue anyway. On this trip, our US contact, Art, provided us with excellent recommendations for all of our wishes. If you want to travel stress-free, with amazing support, and the best possible options made available to you, use JayWay Travel! We love them!
– Nancy & Babette, California
Visited : Switzerland, Italy
Itinerary : Geneva, Lucerne, Como, Milan
Rating :
Flawless planning and attention to detail. Made our trip so wonderful
– Lori & Roy, New Jersey
Visited : Italy, Switzerland
Itinerary : Milan, Como, Lugano, Tirano, St. Moritz, Zermatt, Lucerne
Rating :