【France-Switzerland-Italy Riviera Loop】7-Day Classic Itinerary | Romantic Paris + Snowy Swiss Alps + Southern France Coast + Italian Charm · 1/3 — 1 / 3

【France-Switzerland-Italy Riviera Loop】7-Day Classic Itinerary | Romantic Paris + Snowy Swiss Alps + Southern France Coast + Italian Charm

Trip duration

7 days

Departure date

Departing Saturday

Type

Group Tours

Travel through France, Switzerland, Italy, and Monaco on one trip, taking in Europe’s most popular highlights.

From the romance and art of Paris to the Swiss town of Lucerne at the foot of the Alps, then on to fashionable Milan, the water city of Venice, the ancient city of Rome, and artistic Florence in Italy, the journey continues to the Mediterranean’s French Riviera. Stroll through Monaco, Nice, and Cannes, home of the film festival, and soak up the sunshine and charm of southern Europe.

No shopping stops throughout the tour. This carefully selected classic itinerary features iconic landmarks and balances nature, culture, and history, making it ideal for travelers exploring Europe in depth for the first time or hoping to discover the character of several countries in one trip.

Paris Paris

Paris is world-renowned as the “City of Romance,” blending history, culture, and art. It is home to the world-famous Eiffel Tower, the magnificent Arc de Triomphe, and the solemn Place de la Concorde. The Louvre houses countless artistic treasures, including the Mona Lisa and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. Stroll along the Champs-Élysées and experience the charm of fashion and classic elegance; take a boat along the Seine to admire the night views and enjoy pure French romance.

Lucerne

Lucerne lies in central Switzerland and is one of the country’s most enchanting cities, nestled amid mountains and water in a picturesque setting. The city is embraced by the blue waters of Lake Lucerne, with the snow-capped peaks of the Alps stretching into the distance. The famous Chapel Bridge is one of Europe’s oldest wooden bridges, and its paintings tell the story of the city. The finely carved Lion Monument commemorates the Swiss Guards who fell during the French Revolution. Blending Swiss traditions with modern life, Lucerne is an ideal place to experience the Swiss way of life.

Milan

Milan is Italy’s fashion and financial center, combining a modern atmosphere with a rich history. Milan Cathedral in the city center is renowned for its Gothic architecture and is the third-largest church in the world—an awe-inspiring sight. Nearby, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Europe’s oldest glass-vaulted shopping arcade, resplendent in its grandeur. Milan is also home to a wealth of artworks and haute couture brands, making it a paradise for art lovers and shoppers alike.

Venice Venice

Venice is known as the “Floating City,” famous around the world for its unique network of canals and romantic atmosphere. Travel along the Grand Canal by water bus or gondola to reach St. Mark’s Square, where the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica and Campanile stand. The Bridge of Sighs connects the Doge’s Palace with the prison and is a symbol of Venice’s history. You can also visit a traditional glassmaking factory and admire the glassblowing art passed down over centuries.

Rome

Rome, the “Eternal City,” has more than two thousand years of history and was the heart of the Roman Empire. It is home to world-class landmarks such as the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Arch of Constantine. Piazza Venezia and the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II represent the birth of the modern Italian nation. Sculptures, fountains, and artistic treasures fill the streets and squares, where history and modernity intertwine to captivating effect.

Vatican City Vatican

Vatican City is the world’s smallest independent country, yet it is the spiritual center of the Catholic world. The magnificent and imposing St. Peter’s Basilica is a masterpiece of European Renaissance architecture and houses Michelangelo’s Pietà. Climb to the top of the dome for sweeping views over Vatican City. St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican complex hold immense religious and artistic significance, making them must-see destinations for pilgrims and art lovers.

Arezzo

Located in eastern Tuscany, Arezzo was once an important city-state of the Etruscan civilization. One of the birthplaces of medieval art and goldsmithing, it is dotted with ancient churches and cultural sites. The city was a filming location for Italian director Roberto Benigni’s film Life Is Beautiful. With its authentic Italian small-town charm, quiet, elegant streets, and rich heritage, Arezzo is a wonderful place to experience the true culture of Tuscany.

Florence

Florence is the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, home to many great artists and thinkers. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, built from pink and white marble, features a magnificent dome; the Basilica of Santa Croce is the resting place of luminaries including Dante, Galileo, and Michelangelo. Piazzale Michelangelo is an excellent spot for views over the city, while the Ponte Vecchio is one of the oldest streets lined with goldsmiths’ shops. Every stone here tells a story of artistic and historical splendor.

Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa tilts because of subsidence in its foundations and is hailed as one of the “Seven Wonders of the World.” The Piazza dei Miracoli, where it stands, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and includes Pisa Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the cemetery, all built with white marble. Showcasing the exquisite beauty of Italian architecture, it is a popular landmark for travelers to photograph.

Genoa

Genoa is an important Italian port city and the birthplace of the explorer Christopher Columbus. Set between the mountains and the sea, it has a distinctive medieval character. The winding, narrow streets of the old town are lined with colorful buildings climbing the hillsides. Although this itinerary does not include a dedicated stop in the city, its unique harbor atmosphere and Mediterranean charm add a deep-blue touch to the journey toward the French Riviera.

Monaco Monaco

Monaco is a tiny, wealthy country on the Mediterranean coast, renowned for the Monte Carlo Casino and the Prince’s Palace of Monaco. Perched on a cliff, the palace overlooks the harbor and the entire principality. Monaco is not only the host of the Grand Prix but also one of the wealthiest and safest places in the world, attracting affluent people from around the globe to settle and vacation here.

Nice Nice

Nice is one of France’s most popular holiday destinations, situated in the heart of the French Riviera. The coastline of the Bay of Angels stretches into the distance, where beaches meet blue skies. The Promenade des Anglais is lined with cafés, street performers, and palm trees, creating a laid-back atmosphere typical of the south of France. Nice’s colorful Old Town is the perfect place to experience Mediterranean culture and pace of life.

Cannes Cannes

Cannes is known around the world for its international film festival, which attracts countless stars and movie fans every year. The red carpet in front of the Palais des Festivals and the “Chemin des Étoiles” handprint walk are popular photo spots. Cannes is not only a symbol of film art but also a coastal city full of sunshine, beaches, and luxury boutiques.

Avignon

Avignon was the residence of the popes in the 14th century and is home to the magnificent Papal Palace and the Pont Saint-Bénézet (the Pont d’Avignon). Steeped in history, the city is enclosed by remarkably well-preserved walls. A quintessential example of medieval architecture in southern France, it is an ideal destination for experiencing the region’s old-world charm.

Day 1

Paris - Lucerne

Depart from Paris in the morning and head toward the Swiss border via the highway, passing through Basel, an important transport hub at the junction of France, Germany, and Switzerland. Enter Switzerland in the afternoon and drive to Lucerne, a famous scenic city in central Switzerland.

Day 2

Lucerne - Milan - Venice

Set out in the morning for Milan, Italy’s fashion capital. Visit Piazza del Duomo and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, whose arched glass dome and ornate decorations are stunning. Milan Cathedral is the world’s third-largest cathedral, surpassed only by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and is grand and well worth exploring. In the afternoon, drive to Venice, the city on the water, and continue your romantic journey.

Day 4

Venice - Rome

Explore Venice in the morning, one of the world’s top ten tourist destinations, known as the “City on the Water.” Take a “water taxi” to the famous St. Mark’s Square and visit the Byzantine-style St. Mark’s Basilica, the romantic Bridge of Sighs, the once-bustling Grand Canal, and the charming shopping lanes. You can also take an authentic gondola ride at your own expense, gliding through the canals and experiencing the unique charm of this city on the water. Later, visit a traditional glassmaking factory and see Venice’s centuries-old glassmaking art. In the afternoon, set out for Rome, the “Eternal City” and capital of Italy.

Day 5

Rome - Vatican City - Arezzo

Set out in the morning for Vatican City, one of the world’s smallest countries, and visit the world-famous St. Peter’s Basilica. This architectural masterpiece of the Renaissance brings together the work of Italy’s finest architects and artists and took 120 years to complete. Its imposing dome and majestic square are breathtaking, and inside the church is Michelangelo’s only signed sculpture, the Pietà. Then return to central Rome to view the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine, and the magnificent monument symbolizing Italian unification, taking in the glorious remains of the Roman Empire. In the afternoon, head north toward Florence, the capital of Tuscany. The birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence is rich in artistic and historical heritage, and the journey continues deeper into medieval culture.

Day 5

Arezzo – Florence – Pisa – Genoa

Depart in the morning for Florence, the capital of Tuscany and the birthplace of the Renaissance, where art and history fill every corner. First, head up to Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic views of the city, then visit its famous landmarks: the Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore, begun in the 13th century and the third-largest cathedral in Italy; the medieval Ponte Vecchio spanning the Arno River, once a gold trading center; and the Basilica of Santa Croce, the burial place of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Galileo, and other notable figures. Florence is also the birthplace of Italian leather craftsmanship, and visitors can shop for high-quality leather goods at a leather workshop. In the afternoon, drive to Pisa to see the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Originally built as the cathedral’s bell tower, it began to lean due to unstable foundations but has not toppled, becoming a unique landmark. Nearby are the Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery, both built of white marble, with a long history and great visual appeal. In the evening, head to a hotel near Genoa, an important port city on Italy’s northwestern coast, enjoying the scenery along the way (no sightseeing in central Genoa is specifically scheduled today).

Day 6

Genoa – Monaco – Nice – Cannes – Avignon

Depart from Italy’s northwestern coast in the morning and follow the Mediterranean coastline into the French Riviera in southern France. Arrive in Monaco at midday. This tiny country, set between mountains and sea, is known for its luxury casinos, F1 circuit, and Monte Carlo Palace, and is a holiday paradise for the world’s affluent. Climb the hills for panoramic views of Monaco and admire the distinctive cityscape of this small country. Next, visit a major perfume center in southern France and tour a renowned local perfume factory to learn how perfume is made. You can also purchase your favorite fragrance as a travel souvenir. Then arrive in Nice, a holiday destination on the French Riviera. Stroll along the picturesque Bay of Angels and the Promenade des Anglais and enjoy the laid-back romance of southern France. Continue on to Cannes, a city at the heart of the world film industry. Visit the main venue of the Cannes Film Festival and walk along the star-studded walkway bearing the handprints of international celebrities, experiencing the blend of cinema and celebrity glamour. In the evening, leave the coast and drive to a hotel near Avignon (no sightseeing in Avignon is specifically scheduled today).

Day 7

Avignon – Paris

Set off in the morning and travel north along French highways, passing through pastoral landscapes and towns on the way back to romantic Paris. Arrive in the early evening, bringing this memorable tour of southern France and Italy to a close.

Included

• Hotel accommodation: We guarantee hotels rated at least three stars according to local European standards. All rooms have private bathrooms and are generally arranged for two people per room. Guaranteed upgrade: two nights in a four-star hotel on every tour. • Transportation: Deluxe air-conditioned tour buses, as specified in the itinerary, will be used throughout the tour. • Tour leader: A professional bilingual tour leader who speaks Mandarin and Cantonese will accompany the group from departure locally.

Not included

• All types of insurance, travel documents, and visa fees • Attraction admission tickets: As specified in the itinerary; optional activities outside the itinerary are charged separately • Tips: €10 per person per day for the tour guide and driver (same rate for adults and children) • International flights and fees for oversized or overweight baggage • Personal expenses (such as lunches and dinners not included in group meals, in-room drinks, telephone calls, laundry, or compensation for damage) • Additional expenses arising from force majeure (such as strikes or transport delays) • City entry taxes and accommodation taxes (please refer to the “City Tax / Spending Guide” for details)

Booking information

• Please do not book flights in advance: If you need to purchase a flight to join the tour, please wait until you receive the Booking Confirmation from our company before booking, to avoid losses due to itinerary changes. • Instructions for using the Tour Voucher: The Tour Voucher contains departure information and an emergency contact number. Please print it and carry it with you; you must present it when boarding for identity verification. Only the version issued by our company is valid. Any information or terms added by a travel agent who prepares its own version are unrelated to our company, and we reserve all rights to pursue liability. • No responsibility for delays: We are not responsible for delays or expenses arising from passenger negligence, missed connecting flights, late arrival at the meeting point, or similar circumstances. In a serious emergency, please call the emergency contact number listed on the Tour Voucher. • Airport pickup reminder: To ensure a smooth airport pickup, please use the mobile phone number provided when registering on the pickup day. If the driver cannot find you after you exit customs, they will contact you at this number. • Please read before registering: To protect your rights, please read the terms, conditions, and liability information in “Registration Procedures & Information for Circular Tours” carefully before registering. By registering, you acknowledge that you have read and accepted our company’s relevant terms.

Cancellation policy

When booking, please read carefully and make sure you understand the cancellation, date-change and refund terms that apply after your booking is confirmed: • If you need to cancel your booking for any reason after booking, the following charges will be deducted as compensation (including for medical or personal reasons): • 16 days or more before departure, either party may make any changes, bringing the departure forward or postponing it, with no charges deducted • 15–8 days before departure: 50% of the total tour price will be charged • Within 7 days of departure: 100% of the total tour price will be charged

Special Notes

• Tour prices are calculated by “number of days”; there is no accommodation on the final night of the itinerary (i.e. seven days and six nights, four days and three nights, or one day with no overnight stay) • Children aged 2–11 must share a room with two adults and do not get a bed (limited to one child per room). If a child needs a bed, the adult tour fare applies. • Infants aged 0–2 travel free of charge but are not entitled to a seat or any services. • The times listed for departure points are for reference only. Delays are not grounds for dispute or compensation claims. • Group activities: Where group activities are arranged as part of the itinerary, participants must pay to take part. • Gratuities: €10 per day, payable in cash to the tour guide after joining the tour.

Helpful Information

• European hotels generally include breakfast, but it is usually a simple continental breakfast (defined as coffee or tea, juice, bread, and jam). • European hotel rooms are relatively small, and their amenities and service standards are below those in Asia and North America. Please bring your own toiletries. • Temperatures can vary greatly between day and night in Europe. There are no more than two months a year when temperatures exceed 30°C. Environmental awareness is also high, and some hotels do not have air conditioning. Thank you for your understanding.

Quick booking

Enter your departure date and party size on this page. After you submit, an advisor will confirm the fare, availability, and optional extras.