Switzerland and the Mediterranean

Experience the legends of William Tell, the Lion Monument, and the story of Swiss independence as history comes to life through vivid reenactments.

Explore Lucerne with your Tour Director, set against the Alps and green pastures. Walk the Old Town’s cobblestones to Chapel Bridge, a 14th-century wooden bridge decorated with murals, and see the Lion Monument, a sandstone tribute to Swiss Guards lost in 1792. Visit the ornate Jesuit Church and take in the charm of Weinmarkt and Kornmarkt Squares.

Scale snow-capped Mount Pilatus for sweeping views of Lucerne and the Alps. From May to mid-November, cruise Lake Alpnach before riding the world’s steepest cog railway; the rest of the year, ascend by cable car. At the summit, capture frame-worthy photos, and on clear days, enjoy vistas stretching up to 200 miles.

Lake Como, nestled in northern Italy’s Lombardy region, is a glacial lake renowned for its deep blue waters and dramatic alpine scenery. Surrounded by villas, gardens, and towns like Bellagio and Varenna, it has long been a haven for artists, aristocrats, and celebrities. Its Y-shape and depth of over 1,300 feet make it one of Europe’s most captivating natural wonders.

Cinque Terre, or “five lands,” is a series of five traditional fishing villages strung along the cliffs of the Italian Riviera. Colorful houses and stunning views line the road between Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, where winemaking, olive farming, and anchovy fishing still occupy most residents.

Step into glamorous Monaco, a tiny principality on the French Riviera famed for its luxury, history, and royal connections. Visit the Prince’s Palace, home to Monaco’s ruling family, and see why this city-state became a playground for royalty and movie stars. Then travel to the medieval hilltop village of Èze to visit a traditional parfumerie, where expert perfumers have crafted scents since the 1700s.

The Côte d'Azur's largest city spills down the hillsides to pebble beaches that line the shore. Your Tour Director will show you around the narrow pedestrian streets and tiny squares of "Le Vieux Nice" (Old Town), which is sprinkled with old palaces and mansions. Stroll down the Promenade des Anglais, which runs parallel to the water. Backed by Nice's grand hotels, the Promenade was built in the 19th century for the British who flocked here en masse.

Located in the Luberon, the Ocher Trail is a striking geological site and a feast for the eyes. Hike the loop to see unique rock formations and vibrant colors. Note that the ocher sand may temporarily stain shoes or clothes, so plan accordingly.

Discover the beauty of Provence amid lavender fields, olive groves, and ochre-colored villages. Explore Roman legacies at the Pont du Gard aqueduct and the Nîmes amphitheater, still used for performances today. Then travel into the Alpilles mountains to see the medieval fortress ruins of Baux-de-Provence, once a stronghold for surrounding villages.

Make a sales pitch for a masterpiece by Cézanne, Monet, or another artist whose works highlight Provençal landscapes. Understand the impact that the light and landscape had on these artists.

Take interactive learning to another level with a Tour Director-led scavenger hunt on Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s most famous pedestrian street. Complete exciting activities and solve fun clues, each designed to maximize experiential learning on tour.

Discover Barcelona with a licensed guide as you explore its mix of Gothic charm and modernist brilliance. Visit Plaza de España, then marvel at Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, the soaring church that defines the city’s skyline. Wander through Park Güell with its colorful mosaics and sweeping views, and journey to Montjuïc Hill, home to historic fortresses and the 1992 Olympic grounds.