Essential Europe Grad Trip from $4965

England – France – Belgium – Holland – Germany – Austria - Italy – Vatican City - Greece
18 days plus a 5-day optional extension to Southern Italy & Greece

This trips is designed for traditional age graduates.

Check Availability or call 800-638-7640

What's Included?

INCLUSIONS 18-DAY LAND PACKAGE:

Transportation and Lodging

  • 16 nights in superior tourist class hotels or better, 2-share rooms with private bath/shower
  • All intra-Europe transportation by air-conditioned motor coach as per itinerary
  • Eurostar train from London to Paris
  • Airport transfers included with purchase of AESU group airfare

Meals

  • Daily continental breakfasts
  • 1 Rothenburg Gasthaus lunch
  • 7 three-course specialty dinners, including:
    • French Bistro dinner
    • Dutch-Indonesian rice table dinner
    • Authentic Bavarian dinner
    • Two hearty Austrian dinners
    • Traditional Florentine dinner
    • Viva Italia pizza party

Activities & Admissions

  • London welcome orientation and pub crawl
  • 1-day group tube pass in London
  • Guided tours in London, Paris, Florence and Rome, all led by local historians
  • Seine River cruise in Paris
  • Paris Museum Pass (includes access to over 50 museums and monuments in Paris including The Louvre, Musée Picasso and more)
  • Travel card with unlimited access to public transportation system in Paris, Amsterdam and Rome
  • Biking in the Dutch countryside
  • Visit to wooden shoemaker and Edam cheese farm
  • Amsterdam canal cruise
  • Rhine River cruise
  • Medieval Rothenburg
  • Heidelberg Castle
  • Visit to salt mine
  • Murano glass-blowing workshop and demonstration
  • Roma Pass (includes free or discounted admissions to sights in Rome.)
  • Visit St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City

Sights

  • See Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, London's Tower Bridge, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, Belgium's Mannekin Pis, Brussels' Grand Place, Mozart's Salzburg, Holland's colorful windmills, Cologne Cathedral, Munich's Glockenspiel chimes and Marienplatz, Austrian Alps, Venice's Doge Palace and St. Mark's Square, Florence's Gates of Paradise, Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, Rome's Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Athens' Parthenon and much more....

INCLUSION 5-DAY OPTIONAL EXTENSION:

Transportation and Lodging

  • 5 nights in superior tourist class hotels or better, 2-share rooms with private bath/shower - Including overnight on ship from Italy to Greece (4-share cabins)
  • All intra-Europe transportation by air-conditioned motor coach and overnight ship as per itinerary
  • Airport transfers included with purchased AESU group airfare

Meals

  • Daily continental breakfasts
  • 4 three-course specialty dinners, including:
    • Three Greek Island Mediterranean dinners
    • Athens farewell taverna dinner

Admissions & Activities

  • Guided tours in Pompeii and Athens, led by local historians
  • Admission to Pompeii archeological site
  • Bike rental on the Isle of Poros
  • Greek Island stay
  • Toga party
  • Admission to Acropolis

Sights

  • Mt. Vesuvius, Pompeii excavations, Athens' Acropolis, Parthenon and much more...

Plus:

  • A private tour director for the entire duration of the land tour
  • All service charges and local taxes

Graduate - then CELEBRATE!

Reward yourself for all your hard work with the ultimate escape. The Essential Europe grad trip offers 23 days of exploration, adventure, and insight into many of Europe's most popular and stunning countries.

This tour provides something for everyone, from mingling with locals on the London pub crawl, and seeking adventure in the Greek Isles, to photographing the majesty of Il Duomo in Florence and dancing like Julie Andrews in the Austrian hills. The beauty of this journey is the balance of fun excursions, time at leisure and fascinating looks into history, architecture, and breathtaking European landscapes. Unleash your inner adventurer, enjoy this well-rounded experience, and make memories and new friends to last a lifetime.

ENGLAND: London (2 nights)

Welcome orientation * Guided tour of London's Pomp & Pageantry * Eurostar train

 

FRANCE: Paris (2 nights)

French bistro dinner * Paris Museum Pass * Paris travel card with unlimited access to public transportation system * Seine River cruise * Guided tour of Paris

 

BELGIUM: Brussels

Brussels' Grand Place

 

HOLLAND
Amsterdam (2 nights) - Dutch Countryside

Amsterdam travel card with unlimited access to local transportation * Amsterdam Cheese & Wine canal cruise * Bicycling in windmill country * Edam cheese farm visit

 

GERMANY
Cologne - Heidelberg (1 night) - Rothenburg - Munich (2 nights)

Cologne Gothic Cathedral * Rhine River cruise * Heidelberg Castle * Germany's Romantic Road * Munich Glockenspiel * Salt mine visit

 

AUSTRIA
Salzburg - Lake District (2 nights)

Salzburg Mozart sights * Alpine stay

 

ITALY & VATICAN CITY
Venice (1 night) - Florence (2 nights) -
Rome (2 nights) - Vatican City - Pompeii

Murano Island & glass-blowing workshop * Tour of Florence, guided by a local historian * Roma Pass * Guided visit of Rome and Vatican City * Pizza party * Rome's Trevi Fountain & ancient illuminated ruins

 

GREECE
Overnight Ferry (1 night) - Isle of Poros (3 nights) - Athens (1 night)

Tour of Pompeii Archeological site * Overnight ship to Greece * Greek Island activities, including swimming, sunbathing and special Greek dinners & BBQ * Bike ride * Toga party * Athens Acropolis and Plaka district * Farewell Greek taverna dinner ...and much more!

Free Airport Transfers & Discount Airfare

When you book your airfare through AESU, you get these great benefits:

  • Free airport transfers overseas on tour start and return dates
  • Hassle free—we take care of all the details
  • Free quotes & competitive rates
  • Fly with fellow travelers
  • Flexible payment schedule
  • AESU can help with special flight requests too
Find out more

Optional Activities & Excursions Offered on Your Trip.

Have it your way and personalize your trip by adding fun, optional activities. These activities are not included in your land package price to allow free time for those who want to explore on their own. Rates have been specially negotiated with the suppliers and will include transportation to and from the event, where applicable. All options are based on a minimum number of travelers participating. Rates listed are approximate rates in US$ and are subject to change. Contact your tour director upon arrival overseas to book and pay for your options. Payment to tour director in cash in local currency.

All
Optional Moulin Rouge French Can-Can Show
$195

Since 1889 the cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge is recognized world-wide because of its famous French can-can, immortalized by artist Toulouse-Lautrec.
The above cost includes transfers by taxi, metro and/or motor coach, entrance to the “Féerie” show at 11:00pm, and one glass of champagne.

Optional whitewater rafting in Austria
$82

The Enns River in Austria offers some of the country’s best whitewater rafting. All necessary gear such as wetsuit, helmet, boots and life jacket are provided. Instructions are provided by experienced rafting guides. Groups of 8-10 people per boat with their own guide on-board. Rapids, narrows, and even a small waterfall ensure excitement. The tour is tame enough to ensure fun for both experienced rafters and beginners alike. Depending on the water level, the Enns River near Schladming is a 3 or medium on the difficulty scale.
The cost includes round-trip transfer, equipment and boat rental as well as a two hour ride guided by licensed rafting guides.

Optional Chianti excursion
$82

The Chianti excursion starts with a picturesque drive through the vineyards of one of the best known wine growing areas. A local expert will show us the cellars and introduce us to a variety of wines accompanied by local specialties of ham, Tuscan salami, olive oils, and bread. After free time to explore the town of Greve, we will return to Florence.
Cost includes round-trip transfer by motor coach, tour of the facilities, wine tasting, and samples of local foods. Free time in Greve. Times and prices are subject to change.

Optional Watersports - cost depending on activity booked
$0

Enjoy watersport activities just a few steps away from the hotel on the Greek Island of Poros. From banana boats to wakeboarding, waterskiing, tubing and parasailing - there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Cost for watersport options will depend on the type of option you select. Book directly through your tour director on Poros Island.

All

Free time is a chance to choose your own adventure and explore even further. With endless options in every city, what will you discover?

All

Meals

Traveling on this trip will introduce you to some native cuisine, including local specialties.

more information

Hotels

We stay in superior tourist class hotels, all with private bath/shower in 2-share rooms. Our hotels have been specially selected for their European atmosphere, friendly hospitality, and cleanliness. Our hotels are centrally located or within a short walk of public transportation to take you to the landmark of your choice in the city you are visiting. (Why stay in remote cabins, hostels, or share your room with up to 6 people, when you can stay in a centrally located hotel?)

You'll be given a complete hotel address list with your final documents. Properties are subject to change and any substitutions would be the equivalent of those listed. *Single supplement only applies if single accommodations are requested. Independent hotel reservations, special tours and FIT tours always apply a single supplement. Please check your itinerary.

All
ST. GILES HOTEL, London

St. Giles Hotel Central London is centrally located in Bloomsbury near the junction of Tottenham Court Road and Oxford Street, Rooms are well furnished with modern amenities such as TV, hairdryer, voicemail, telephone, safe and radio. WiFi is available at additional cost.

IBIS PARIS BASTILLE OPERA, Paris

The Ibis Hotel Bastille Opera is located in the city center, close to Place Bastille. It features a 24-hour reception, a French restaurant, a bar and air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen, satellite TV. Rooms are of a modern décor with parquet flooring, a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. Free Wi-Fi access is provided. The accommodation also provides luggage storage, newspapers and a safety deposit box is available at reception. The hotel is in a short walking distance to Bastille Metro Station which provides direct access to Paris sights.

BEST WESTERN ZAAN INN, Zaandam

The Zaan Inn Hotel is located just north of Amsterdam near the Zaan River. This well-appointed hotel offers smoke-free rooms with a safe deposit box, cable flat-screen TV, telephone, climate control and en suite bathroom with shower and hairdryer. WiFi is available for a fee.

HOTEL IBIS, Heidelberg

The Ibis Heidelberg Hotel is centrally located near the main train station. Historic attractions and the unique old town are within easy reach. Rooms feature comfortable beds, adjustable air conditioning and 24-hour services. WIFI is available 24/7 in all rooms at an additional cost, it is free of charge in the hotel lobby and bar area.

HOTEL IBIS MUENCHEN CITY, Munich

A 4-minute walk from München Hauptbahnhof train station, this centrally located hotel in the Maxvorstadt district is also close to Marienplatz square. The modern rooms all have free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, plus custom-designed beds and work desks. There is a 24/7 lounge/bar offering snacks.

HOTEL LAMMWIRT, Großarl Salzburg

HOTEL RESIDENCE ELITE, Mestre, Venice

The Residence is just a few minutes away by bus from Venice. This comfortable hotel in Mestre is set out over six floors and has three lifts, one of which is panoramic. All 85 units in the Hotel Residence Elite have been recently renovated to offer guests a vast range of options. The public rooms are extremely pleasant and welcoming: guests can have breakfast in a large, bright room, relax in the reading room or in the small garden and enjoy a cocktail at the hotel bar.

HOTEL LEONARDO DA VINCI, Florence

ELISEO HOTEL, Rome

The Eliseo hotel features a panoramic terrace with views of Villa Borghese. It is centrally located, approx. 10 minute walk to the Spanish Steps and less than 700 ft from fashionable Via Veneto. Closest metro station is Spagna. The air-conditioned rooms are designed in a classic style and include a TV and a mini-bar. The private bathroom is equipped with a hairdryer and toiletries. Wi-Fi is free. A continental buffet breakfast is available daily from 7:00 in the top-floor dining room, featuring lovely city views. Breakfast includes pastries, fresh fruit, ham, cheese and hot drinks.

OVERNIGHT FERRY, Italy-Greece

Superfast Ferries, the youngest and fastest ferry fleet, welcomes you on board for an unforgettable traveling experience. While most of our groups travel on Superfast Ferries from Bari to Patras on their way from Italy to Greece, it is possible that due to scheduling issues or availability, vessels such as Maritime Way will be used from Bari or Brindisi. 4-share accommodations on all vessels.

POROS IMAGE HOTEL, Poros

Xenia Poros Image Hotel is located on the picturesque beach of Neorio, just minutes away from Poros town. All the air-conditioned rooms have a balcony, free WiFi, hairdryer, cable-TV, radio, telephone, a comfortable seating area and a safe. There is a full-service restaurant, elegant “Green” bar and a beach bar.

HOTEL ARION, Athens

The Arion Hotel is located within walking distance of Monastiraki Metro station and the Plaka area. This is a smoke-free hotel and has a 24-hour front desk and a computer station. WiFi is free in the common areas.

Essential Europe - 18 days - end in Rome$4965.00
Essential Europe - 23 days (18 days PLUS 5 day extension) - end in Athens$5960.00
Click on a date below to get a quote or book online
Start In LondonEnd In RomeLand Only
2024
May 25  Jun 10$4965

Or call 800-638-7640 to speak with a travel expert

If you purchase your own airfare, book your overnight flight from the USA one day earlier than the tour start date listed above.

* Price per person based on a twin share room. If you're traveling alone, AESU will arrange for you to share a twin at NO EXTRA COST. If you prefer a single room, a single supplement of $1,295/$385 will apply. Single accommodations are not available on the overnight ship from Italy to Greece.

AIRFARE

Gateway Cities

Fly into London, return from Rome for 18-day program or return from Athens for 23-day program.

Airfare is not included in land price. If you choose to book air with AESU, after receipt of your land booking, AESU will email you a quote with your tour confirmation invoice. You will have 72 hours to accept or decline airfare. (Or call AESU at 800-638-7640 for a quote prior to booking).

Book Airfare with AESU - FREE Airport Transfers

Purchase your airfare from AESU and receive free arrival/departure transfers between the airport and your hotels. We also try to book you on the same flights as others traveling on your tour. Land only participants BOOKING OWN FLIGHT OVERSEAS, DO NOT receive airport arrival/departure transfers. If you book land only with us, book your flights from the USA one day earlier than the tour start date. If you are not booking flights through AESU, we recommend not booking airfare until your tour is guaranteed (This will be noted on website with “guaranteed departure” next to tour start date).

Learn More >>>

How to Book

Click on a date above to get a quote or book online. You can make your $500 deposit ONLINE to confirm your space on the land tour. Full payment isn't due until 90 days before departure, and you or friends and family can make partial payments after you've booked (See NOTE below if within 90 days). Or you can scan/email or fax a booking form.

If you just want a quote and don’t want to secure a spot on the land program, select date above and click “Get a Quote” button on next page.

NOTE: Reservations to be paid in full 90 days prior to departure. Reservations received after this date are subject to availability and any airfare quote can only be held for 72 hours. Payment in full, for late bookings, will be due upon receipt of invoice from AESU. A late booking fee of $150 per person will apply.

All prices reflect a cash discount (For full payment by credit card, there is a 4% processing fee.) See invoice for payment details. FINAL PAYMENTS CANNOT BE MADE ONLINE. SEND CREDIT CARD FORM ON LAST PAGE OF INVOICE FOR ANY CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS AFTER INITIAL DEPOSIT.

To download a copy of the Terms and Conditions Click here.

Payment Plan

After paying a deposit of $500 online to reserve your spot, you can pay your balance in as many installments as you like, with a minimum of $100 for each transaction and no service fee. Please indicate booking number on your check payment. If you prefer to pay installments by credit card, please call us at 800-638-7640 for details. (All prices reflect a cash discount. There is a 4% processing fee for any payments made by credit card after initial deposit.) The total tour cost (land, and air if applicable) must be paid in full at least 90 days before departure.
 

INSURANCE: Travel insurance is required. The Texas Exes recommend purchasing your insurance through Redpoint Travel Insurance www.redpointtravelprotection.com/texas-exe, phone: 512-888-9560.


>> Covid-19 Update <<

 

Is This Trip Right for You?


"This experience changed my life forever and I would do it again a million times if I could. It was well planned out, fast-paced, and so much fun. Definitely recommend!"
-Past traveler

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Contact Us


AESU Alumni World Travel

3922 Hickory Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21211
Phone: 410-366-5494
Toll-Free: 800-638-7640
Fax: 410-366-6999
Email: alumni@aesu.com