Category: Gate 1 Connections

Central Europe is an astounding canvas of natural beauty. Dense forests blanket vast expanses, rolling rivers meander through a sloping terrain of granite, and colossal snow-capped peaks soar into a crisp, blue sky. Amidst these wonders, some of the world’s most storied cities evolved, tiny villages at first that burgeoned into richly layered cultural capitals that today are the pride of the region.

It’s easy to become so enamored with the awe-inspiring architecture and welcoming people that all you feel is gratitude toward all that made these majestic cities and charming villages what they are today. Yet the story of how Central Europe emerged into one of the most frequently visited places in the world is neither straightforward nor simple, and Gate 1 Travel’s tours and Tour Managers help you understand the complexities of local history and culture. After experiencing these six countries with our seasoned experts, you’ll return home richly rewarded and breathlessly inspired.

Germany: Cities of Glorious Architecture, Medieval Treasures

Behind Germany’s place as an economic powerhouse is a nation that has tightly held onto its medieval past. Even in Frankfurt, modern Europe’s largest financial center, the Altstadt, or Old Town, invites endless exploration through the Romerplatz—the historic square where the City Hall has stood watch for 600 years. Outside of Frankfurt, a more bucolic view of the Middle Ages unfolds along the banks of the Rhine River. Here, timber-framed houses and fairytale villages line the water’s shores and stalwart castles cling to hillsides. Even the endless vineyards that blanket the riverside date back to the ancients.

A riverboat idyll from the city of Mainz—birthplace of Gutenberg’s printing press—to the castle-dominated town of Heidelberg reveals Germany at its legendary best. Indeed, Heidelberg is one of the county’s most romantic destinations, thanks to its pretty location between the hills of Odenwald and the Neckar River. But as far as authentic historic towns go, Rothenberg is Germany’s best preserved. Untouched by the wars that have swept through Europe over the centuries—it even escaped the bombings of World War II—it provides a priceless snapshot of medieval life.

Other German cities, of course, were forever altered by war and stand today as triumphant testaments to the human spirit. Berlin today enjoys a free and transparent democracy. Just how transparent is today’s German government? It’s enough to say that the Reichstag, Berlin’s glorious Parliament building, is crowned with a see-through glass dome to symbolize the new openness. Arts are embraced here, too. The East Side Gallery comprises 105 paintings on a mile-long length of the old Berlin Wall, each one meant to convey the exuberance and euphoria of the newly united Germany. And the city’s Museum Island in the River Spree is home to five cultural institutions. The past is also well-preserved in Berlin at the 18^th-century Brandenburg Gate and at the remnants of Checkpoint Charlie.

Dresden also rose from the ashes of World War II. So painstaking was its resurrection, you would never know today that it was completely decimated by Allied bombing. This city of Baroque art has been called the “Florence on the Elbe River” for its rich artistic heritage and sheer beauty. From the rococo-style Zwinger Palace and gardens … to the wedding-cake exterior of the Semper Opera House … to the stunning Frauenkirche with its massive dome, the city’s elegance is unmatched.

Many are surprised to learn that Nuremberg boasts a long tradition of handmade toys. Home to the Nuremberg Toy Museum and host of the annual Nuremberg International Toy Fair, a playful spirit lives on in the city’s Market Square and Old Town. It is a sad irony that the city staged Nazi rallies and became a center of Hitler’s propaganda machine. Yet it was entirely fitting that the Palace of Justice here hosted the post-war Nuremberg Trials that put war criminals behind bars.

One of Germany’s most striking sights is the Cologne Cathedral. It is an undeniably hulking piece of architecture; its double spires comprise the largest façade of any church. It was the tallest manmade structure in the world from 1880 to 1884, surpassed by the Washington Monument. The cathedral stands on the perimeter of the Altstadt, or Old Town, where you’ll find ample beer pubs. In fact, Cologne boasts the most pubs per capita in Germany.

The city of Hamburg is an underappreciated gem. Situated on the Elbe River, which flows into the North Sea, it is Europe’s second largest port city. Its official name (the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg) dates back to its time as a key trader in the medieval Hanseatic League and to its role as a free imperial city of the Holy Roman Empire. Today, it is a remarkably clean and graceful city. Its citizens embrace the great outdoors in several green spaces—while strolling the walkways at Alster Lake and exploring the fountains and gardens at Planten un Blomen Park.

The capital of Bavaria, Munich enjoys a breathtaking setting near the foothills of the German Alps. The city is most often associated with Oktoberfest, but its highlights point to a rich history and charming ambiance. At the Baroque Nymphenburg Palace, Bavarian kings whiled away the summer and strolled through their extensive gardens. And at the Marienplatz, or Old Town Square, the splendid Gothic Revival New Town Hall takes center stage each day at 11am when life-sized carved figures emerge to enact fabled stories of Bavaria.

Switzerland: Alpine Splendor

The German Alps outside Munich rise into the magnificent peaks of Switzerland, land of chocolate, cuckoo clocks, Gruyere cheese, and precision watches. Vistas here are so breathtaking, it’s little wonder that the Swiss have long maintained neutrality in world affairs; with so much inspirational beauty to marvel at day after day, you might not want to be distracted by petty conflicts either.

Three of its cultural centers sit on namesake lakes, each with a glorious alpine backdrop. The highlight of German-speaking Lucerne is its 14^th-century wooden Chapel Bridge. The footbridge across the Reuss River is the oldest covered span in Europe, and its interiors are adorned with 17^th-century paintings, each one depicting scenes from the city’s past. In French-speaking Geneva, life seems to revolve around its tremendous Jet d’Eau, a single geyser-like fountain that shoots up from the lake more than 400 feet. The green parks and promenades around the lake provide expansive views. Though Geneva hosts the most international organizations in the world, including the United Nations and the Red Cross, its Old City is home to 82 historic Swiss heritage sites. Zurich, too, enjoys a splendid lakeside setting. This stunning city is often cited as having the best quality of life in the world. It Fraumünster Church, with its five stained-glass windows designed by Marc Chagall, has been turning heads for centuries and its St. Peter’s Church boasts the largest clock face on a church in Europe.

Zermatt is perhaps the nation’s most laid-back resort town, if only because it is a traffic-free alpine paradise tucked on a plateau 5,300 feet above sea level. It is only accessible by a steep mountain tram. Long a base from which to ascend the nearby Matterhorn, whose distinctive summit is visible on clear days, it’s also where you can catch gondolas and a cog railway to some of the other peaks for incredible views. Not to be outdone, St. Moritz is Switzerland’s other mountain resort city, Nestled amidst soaring peaks at an elevation of 5,900 feet, this winter retreat for the well-heeled of Europe is one of the most luxurious places on earth.

Austria: Legacy of the Habsburgs

For almost 500 years, Vienna was at one time or another the capital of much of Central Europe, thanks to the Habsburg Dynasty and its descendants.  They made Vienna their elegant and graceful center of culture, with the grandest gifts along the city’s famed Ringstrasse—the Hofburg Palace, Opera House, City Hall, Belvedere Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The monarchy built their 1,441-room summer home at Schonbrunn, an opulent and sprawling estate. While here, be sure to take some time to experience Vienna’s famous café life, perhaps sampling the city’s decadent sacher torte.

While waltz-writer Johann Strauss called Vienna home, Mozart was born in Salzburg. His music still spills into these streets from concert halls, but it was the film, The Sound of Music, that put this dreamy alpine city on every traveler’s map. Embraced by lofty hills, the city is a delightful tapestry of elegant buildings, lovely squares and manicured gardens—all watched over by the looming 11^th-century Hohensalzburg Castle perched atop the Festungsberg Hill.

The city of Innsbruck gained its fame as the host of the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics. But, like Salzburg, it is home to a stunning collection of splendid architecture, including the Gothic Hofburg Palace and the Baroque-rococo Helblinghaus. The elegant symbol of the city, the Golden Roof, is decorated with 2,738 fire-gilded copper tiles.

One of Lower Austria’s most beautiful regions is the Danube Valley. Long a lure for oenophiles, it has produced high-quality wines for centuries. Charming wine villages, vineyards, and lovely whitewashed churches dot the landscape. Amidst all this beauty in the riverside city of Melk, the Melk Abbey rests on a promontory overlooking the Danube River. The Baroque masterpiece, built in the early 1700s, features priceless frescoes and a library of thousands of medieval manuscripts.

Hungary: Home to a Stunning Riverside Capital

If you were to continue from Melk down the Danube River by river ship (and soon we will tell you how you can), you would arrive in Budapest, Hungary’s fascinating capital. The city gracefully straddles the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other. In Buda, sloping hills rise up to the fortress-like Fisherman’s Bastion, an ornate riverside terrace that seems torn from a storybook. It is just a hint of the wonder that lies beyond—the gleaming, Romanesque St. Matthias Church and the hulking Royal Palace with its massive wings and imposing dome.

On the opposite bank, Pest stretches eastward with a cosmopolitan air. Here, the mighty Parliament Building parallels the river’s shore. The sophisticated Andrassy Avenue, the city’s version of the Champs-Elysees, stretches to Heroes’ Square—a monumental square dedicated to the country’s leaders. To witness the spirituality of Budapesters at its grandest, visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, named for the first King of Hungary. And for a more down-to-earth option, the Great Market Hall is lined with endless stalls of goods that provide an unparalleled snapshot of the city’s culture.

The Czech Republic: A Medieval Jewel

The Czech Republic, once ruled by Communists with an iron fist, is today a vibrant and creative corner of Europe. Its political and cultural capital, Prague, is a scenic showcase of Gothic and Renaissance architecture and one of the best preserved medieval cities of its size. So authentic are the narrow cobbled streets of its Old Town they are often used to film movies set in the Middle Ages. Prague is aptly named the “City of a Hundred Spires” for the many towers that soar above the red rooftops.  Its Lesser Town, or Mala Strana, is a delightful cluster of old burgher houses and the Old Town Square lures the curious with its magnificent Orloj. This 600-year-old Astronomical Clock sends out a procession of figurines with the chiming of every hour. Across the 14^th-century Charles Bridge, which spans the leisurely waters of the Vltava River, the Royal Castle District beckons from a hillside. The former residence of Bohemian kings, this town within a town was the site of early Prague, a collection of stately buildings, tiny enclaves and pretty courtyards built around the grand St. Vitus Cathedral.

Poland: Risen from the Ashes

For many, Poland stands out as one of Europe’s most resilient nations. Its capital Warsaw illustrates why. This beautiful city on the Vistula River was completely destroyed during World War II. After the war, its citizens took to rebuilding their beloved Old Town exactly as it was constructed in the 14^th century. Its restored cobbled lanes lead to Market Square, its heart, where the Royal Castle and Cathedral of St. John invite exploration.

Medieval Krakow dates to the 7^th century. Many consider this one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Its cultural and architectural heritage spans the centuries, leaving masterworks of the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque eras in the Wawel Royal Castle District, in St. Mary’s soaring basilica, in the Sukiennice Cloth Hall and all along its vast medieval market square. A more sobering sight here is Oskar Schindler’s enamelware factory. Schindler employed more than 1,000 Jews in order to save them from certain extermination at camps such as Auschwitz, which is right outside Krakow.

So Many Ways to Explore Central Europe with Gate 1 Travel

Our Gate 1 Travel land programs take you to some of the most fascinating pockets of Central Europe, with some of the region’s best-value hotels keeping you comfortable along the way. Want to add some luxury to your journey? Join our Signature Collection trip to Poland, Hungary, Austria and the Czech Republic. And our European River Cruises along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers – with select itineraries sailing aboard Gate 1’s privately owned Monarch Empress – provide an equally rewarding option, with the opportunity to begin or conclude your trip with stays in some of the exciting cities we’ve told you about above. The beauty of a European river cruise is the luxury of unpacking your bags just once and letting fairytale villages and glittering cultural capitals come to you. All onboard meals are included, and you’ll explore at the leisurely pace of the waterways. You can even take advantage of the freedom and value of our Independent Vacations, a great way to follow your own interests in the great cities of Central Europe.

Whether you have eight days or fifteen, whether you want to explore one country or six. Gate 1 Travel has the ideal itinerary, each one enriched by the professional service, local insight, and cultural know-how of our attentive Tour Managers (unless you choose an Independent Vacation, of course). Join Gate 1 Travel in Central Europe, and enjoy unmatched discovery, unparalleled service and a value that no one can equal. We hope to see you soon!

What does your picture-perfect version of France look like? Does it feature a chocolate croissant and espresso in a Paris café within sight of the Eiffel Tower? Or perhaps the shores of Normandy, its beaches forever linked to heroism and sacrifice? Chateau-studded river valleys…wine country where a popped cork is the beginning of a perfect evening…the Mediterranean coast where ocean waves lap at the shore. Gate 1 Travel offers all these versions of France. No matter how you join us—on a classic escorted tour, an independent vacation, our “Fly & Drive” options, a relaxing river cruise, or even a rail vacation that combines Paris and another thrilling European capital—your France awaits you with Gate1.

Paris: France’s Cultural Centerpiece

It is said that all of France begins in Paris, the romantic city of splendid architecture, priceless art, towering monuments, and the graceful River Seine. The sweep of history is ever on display. The masterful Cathedral of Notre Dame harkens to the city’s medieval age, while the Arc de Triomphe celebrates the aspirations of Napoleon. And the city’s grande dame, the Eiffel Tower, stands regally above it all; the heart races at the mere glance of it.

With myriad delights, Paris beckons you to delve into its many neighborhoods at your own pace, following your interests.  That’s why many of our itineraries provide you with ample time to explore on your own. Browse the history-soaked fine arts of the Musée d’Orsay—or go strictly modern at the Centre Pompidou. Write in your journal along the Left Bank or browse the boutiques of the Champs-Élysées. Plus, optional tours reveal the highlights of the Louvre, the splendor of Louis XIV’s Versailles Palace, and the City of Light by night, in all its floodlit finery.

Loire Valley and Normandy: Of Castles & Conquests

Southwest of Paris, a wonderland of more than 300 castles and carefully manicured gardens adorns the countryside of the Loire Valley. Kings and nobles built these fortresses as far back as the tenth century. Many of them—like Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise—reflect the high ideals of the Renaissance and the Age of Enlightenment. And speaking of high ideals, the Loire capital of Chartres is home to the greatest Gothic cathedral in all of France, a sight not to be missed. And discover the lovely cities of Tours, renowned for its Loire wines and elegant architecture.

Battles underpin the history of Normandy province, whether in Bayeaux, with its 230-foot Tapestry commemorating the great Norman Conquest of 1066, to the code-named beaches—Omaha and Utah among them—where Allied troops set in motion the beginning of the end of World War II. Mont St. Michel, too, though revered today for its abbey and monastery, was strategically built on a tidal island, leaving the island fortress unconquered for the entire Hundred Years War.

Saone & Rhone Valleys: Witness to History, Inspiration to Artists and Chefs

Inspiration is everywhere in France, as a visit to the Saone and Rhone Valleys reveals. Impressionist painters Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin found their muses in central France and the celebrated Riviera. The dreamy provinces of Burgundy, Lyonnais, and Provence with their meandering rivers, vineyard hills, and lavender fields, all gave rise to many of their masterpieces.

Some of the region’s greatest masterpieces are culinary. Dijon, in the heart of Burgundy, is one of the centers of divine French cuisine. Dijon mustard was invented here, and internationally known chefs concoct ambrosia-like dishes in their restaurants. Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site city, is the other shining star of gastronomy, connected by the Saone and Rhone rivers to the wine-growing regions of Beaujolais to the north and Cotes du Rhone to the south.

The Rhone Valley’s love affair with wine became the fiscal lifeblood of the Popes of Avignon when they relocated the Holy See here and built the gargantuan Palais des Papes. They commandeered the wine-making tradition begun by the Romans here and commercialized it to bolster the local economy. Of course, wine isn’t the only legacy of the Romans in this historic corner of France: The vast Pont du Gard, a massive aqueduct built to transport water, still stands as a testament to their boundless ingenuity.

Southern France: Medieval Gems & Splendid Wine Capitals

The beauty of Mediterranean France seems boundless, too. Elegant Nice invites long strolls on its Promenade des Anglais. In medieval Carcassonne, cobbled streets lead you through a city frozen in time. And a timeless spell lingers over the market town of Lourdes, near the foothills of the Pyrenees. Here, in 1858, a miller’s daughter saw apparitions of the Virgin Mary in a grotto, transforming the village into a pilgrimage setting. Even now, a nightly torch-lit procession to the grotto inspires all who witness it.

In the Bordeaux region, raising a glass is the sacred nightly ritual. The splendid city (which some say rivals Paris in its beauty) is best known for its full-bodied red wines, while nearby St. Emilion tempts with a Merlot-heavy blend of its own. Meanwhile, the city of Cognac has refined the art of making the prized brandy that bears its name.

Expand Your Discoveries Beyond France

As you see, Gate 1 offers a bounty of choices when it comes to exploring the beauty of France, all with prices easy on your travel budget. Stretch the value of your airfare even more by visiting some of its European neighbors. After all, you’ve already flown to Europe, right? Enrich your French discoveries by experiencing the crown jewel of The Netherlands, navigating the winding canals of Amsterdam in a glass-top boat. Revel in the timeless tapestry of culture in Belgium, from the Grand Palace of Brussels to the medieval lanes of Bruges. Tiny Luxembourg and richly historic Germany are also nearby. What’s more, you can transform your visit to France into a European adventure when you connect by Europe’s meticulous rail system to cities like London, Amsterdam and Barcelona; take the train farther afield to discover Venetian, Renaissance and ancient treasures of Italy in Venice, Florence and Rome.

Experience France in a Discovery Tours Small Group

If you’d like to discover France on a more intimate scale, gaining greater access to local cultures in the company of a small group, consider getting to the heart of Northern France on our Discovery Tours itinerary. Our sister company limits group sizes to just 22 travelers, opening doors to places and experiences larger groups must forego. You’ll sip the wines of the Loire Valley, witness the rocky majesty of Mont St. Michel, and reflect on the triumphs and tragedy of war in St. Malo and Normandy during unique events and activities tailored to your group size. Bookend your Northern France exploration with stays in glittering Paris and Louis XIV’s dazzling Versailles.

You might also head south, exploring France and Spain on a single journey. Experience the vineyard-laden countryside and preserved medieval cities of southern France, and uncover the iconic cities and famously stunning countryside Spain’s Basque region. Sample local wines in Spanish Rioja and French Bordeaux. Soak up artistic masterpieces from the Guggenheim in Bilbao to the Prado in Madrid. Marvel at Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s stunning cathedral more than a century in the making. With delights as diverse as the breathtaking beaches of San Sebastian and the unforgettable walled city of Carcassonne, it’s a journey like no other.

No matter how you explore France with the Gate 1 family, you’re assured exemplary accommodations in central locations, a rich array of included features, and unmatched value. As the French would say, c’est magnifique.

Explore France your way! Follow these links to our exciting Gate 1 Travel itineraries Or call to reserve, 1-800-682-3333!

Towering mountain peaks that plunge through emerald forests. Culture-steeped cities perched over glittering, cobalt seas. Cathedrals that soar, artwork that inspires, and cuisine that tempts the palate and then lingers on the memory—Italy is all of these things and more.

To truly immerse yourself in la dolce vita of Italy, you need to know the local people and what they love about their land; at Gate 1 Travel, we do. Our Tour Managers unveil to you their country’s most thrilling and fascinating sites, and are eager to enlighten you about Italy’s most beloved treasures. And as you arrive at some of Italy’s most visited museums and landmarks, you’ll bypass the long lines, thanks to our pre-purchased entry—offering more time for discoveries.

Welcome to Gate 1’s Italy!

Capitals of Culture: Rome, Venice, Florence & Milan

Rome really is an Eternal City, where past and present intermingle. On streets 2,000 years old, Vespas scoot by visitors soaking in the loveliness of the city’s charming piazzas. These open plazas embody public art at its finest, adorned with finely sculpted fountains carved by some of history’s greatest artists, from Bernini to della Porta.

Piazza to piazza, the architecture astounds—the Romans didn’t do anything half heartedly. Here, the Pantheon, built to honor the gods, soars to the skies. Its revolutionary crown – still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome – is a masterwork of Roman engineering that has never been duplicated. And the ancient Colosseum still dazzles: Once able to host 80,000 spectators, this was where Romans gathered to witness gladiatorial combat and contests between men and beasts.

Art and architecture come together in inspiring fashion in Vatican City. Surely, St. Peter’s Basilica and its sprawling square is one of the most moving pilgrimage sites in all of Christendom. Whether it is faith or art history that beckons you, the Vatican Museum rewards with one of the world’s undisputed treasures: Michelangelo’s The Last Judgment, painstakingly painted on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. In total, the artist painted more than 5,000 square feet of frescoes here. Today, they remain a wonder of rich color and sumptuous detail.

Rome might think of itself as the pinnacle of Italian culture, but citizens of Venice would firmly disagree. The glories of the Venetian Empire, which ruled much of the Adriatic region for over 1,000 years, are on full display. The glittering domes of St. Mark’s Basilica watch over its namesake square, which Napoleon once called “the drawing room of Europe” for its grace and beauty. The nearby Doge’s Palace was the empire’s center. Here, opulent chambers recall the lifestyles of the rich and regal. And the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the prison, afforded the final view that convicted criminals enjoyed (and “sighed” over) before they were locked away. And you can still find Murano glass, a true Venetian treasure, being shaped on the neighboring island by descendants of the finest glass blowers in history.

It didn’t take a kingdom to elevate Florence—just a family. The politically powerful and deep-pocketed Medicis made the city the epicenter of art and intrigue alike, a powerful draw for the greatest minds and talents of Europe. No wonder Florence gave birth to the Renaissance. With its grand buildings, sculptures, gardens, and the astonishing Duomo of the Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore, the city is an open-air museum of the period that defined it. And visitors have two chances here to see its most iconic work, Michelangelo’s David: The original is in the Accademia of Fine Arts and a replica stands in the Piazza della Signoria.

Milan may not have given rise to an entire movement, but it made a name for itself as the heart of fashion in a nation that puts other countries to shame when it comes to style. You might never strut the catwalks of Fashion Week here, but you can always make your own runway with a stroll through the glamorous Victor Emmanuel Galleria, a 19th century pedestrian mall beneath a large arched glass ceiling. It’s the perfect distillation of Italian city life—stylish, historic, and aesthetically beautiful all in one.

Splendor of the Hills

When you leave the bustle of metropolitan centers for lush valleys and romantic hill towns, Italy’s astonishing natural beauty comes into view. At the medieval fortified town of Montecatini, spectacular vistas of emerald-hued slopes await—if you can tear yourself away from a soak in the city’s extensive thermal-fed spas. Travelers have long come here to “take the waters,” and you may do the same during your free time. 

Italy’s hill towns each boast a unique flavor and a distinct character. Lucca is a gem of medieval architecture. Its spectacularly preserved 17^th-century wall is still fully intact and today is home to a public park that’s ideal for strolling and taking in amazing countryside views of olive and fig groves. Within its walls, the original Roman street layout reveals layer upon layer of history. Umbrian Assisi straddles a hilltop, appearing more like a fortress than a major center of the Franciscan Order, though the view from the city is indeed heavenly. Historic Verona is more focused on earthly pursuits, from the remarkably preserved amphitheater to the charming balcony on which Shakespeare’s Juliet is said to have swooned over her famous suitor.

Verdant green hillsides spill down to the sparkling waters of Lago di Como, or Lake Como, in Lombardy. Playground of jet-setters and celebrities, this vast and glistening lake is surrounded by cypress trees, earth-toned villas, lush gardens and spectacular mountain views. It is pure pleasure simply to be here and stroll the scenic lakeside promenade, and it’s hard to resist a cruise to nearby Bellagio, “The Pearl of Lake Como.” The gentle waves lapping at the shores of this lyrical red-roofed village whisper, “Come again…”

The Glittering Sea

As lovely a backdrop as Lake Como might be, it is easily rivaled by the stunning sweep of Italy’s jaw-dropping coastline. On the Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre, a necklace of five villages clinging to cliff sides, is one of the world’s most enchanting destinations. Largely untouched by the congestion of the modern world, the villages can only be accessed by foot or animal trail or by a 19^th-century railway.

The Amalfi Coast tempts with one of the world’s most scenic drives, tracing dramatic and rocky shores to quaint seaside villages and colorful houses that seem to spill into the sea, from Positano to Ravello. Its gateway is Sorrento – famed for its limoncello lemon liqueur and its sweeping views of the Gulf of Naples.

On the Ligurian coast, romance and glamour infuse the route from Portofino to Chiavari with palm-fringed beaches and pastel-colored villas. At the heart of the beauty lies Rapallo, home to the 16th century Castello sul Mare (Castle-on-the-Sea), built to keep out pirates (though it’s understandable why they’d be attracted to such a pretty port).

Sicilian Splendor

Sicily knows a thing or two about pirates, having launched its own in the Roman era (including a crew which kidnapped Julius Caesar) and coming under attack from Barbary pirates for years after. An island of fierce individualism and cultural pride, its heritage nonetheless reflects the influences of the many empires which have tried to tame it.

The island has been a crossroads of civilizations for centuries and countless cultures left their mark here – from the hilltop Norman Cathedral in Monreale to the 12^th-century Byzantine mosaics within. The island’s heart is Palermo, its Old Town a stunning blend of architectural styles, many of them represented in the Palermo Cathedral, which was built and enhanced over centuries.

A spectacular sampling of Greek culture defines Agrigento. Here, in the Valley of the Temples, are the best preserved worship sites outside mainland Greece, including the Temple of Juno and incredibly intact Temple of Concordia. Remarkably restored Roman villas are nearby, providing unique insight into the lives of that era.

The most active volcano in Europe, Mt. Etna is the island’s true conqueror, outlasting all other regimes. It watches over Taormina and Catania alike. Perched on a rocky plateau, Taormina overlooks the Bay of Naxos and the Ionian Sea. The meticulous preservation of its Greek stadium and its walls is equaled only by the coastal vista from its hillside setting. To the south, Catania stood on par with Florence for its cultural and artistic contributions during the Renaissance. Much of the town was destroyed during a 1693 earthquake, and so today it boasts a more baroque flavor, with wide-open piazzas and colorful markets.

Undiscovered Beauty

Perhaps less well known to outsiders than Sicily—and thus seldom as crowded—the Puglia region spreads across the heel of Italy’s boot. Surrounded by turquoise sea, the port city of Bari has been welcoming home sailors and fishermen for more than two millennia. At the open-air market, locals buy the day’s catch, often brought ashore by their own friends and loved ones. The Bari Cathedral and the grand Romanesque Basilica of San Nicola show that Italy’s penchant for artistry didn’t miss Puglia. The same is true in Lecce, where baroque gems outline 300 year-old cobblestone streets. From its Piazza del Duomo to its 2^nd century Roman amphitheater, it’s easy to see why Lecce is fondly named the “Florence of the South.

Like in the rest of Italy, history stretches back across the centuries in Puglia, as a visit to a pair of UNESCO World Heritage Sites reveals. Alberobello is home to 14^th-century dry stone huts known as trulli, small conical structures based on prehistoric building techniques. And in Matera, the Paleolithic Age is revealed by the mysterious Sassi, ancient stone dwellings carved into rock, believed to be the first human settlements in Italy.

Truly, the full sweep of human history awaits you here, from boot to heel and mountain to sea.

Join Gate 1 Travel in Italy to Make the Most of Your Visit, and Your Budget

You’re coming this far…add another country! Italy’s neighbors each have their own story to tell, and savvy travelers know that combining trips makes the most of their travel dollars. Follow the route of Venetian tradesman to Croatia & Slovenia, taking in gems like seaside Opatija and Dubrovnik, the UNESCO World Heritage site. Add a fourth additional country, with Bosnia fleshing out your Balkans experience. Compare the best of Italy with the ancient gems of Greece or a kaleidoscope of cultural capitals in Spain or in Spain and France.

Gate 1 offers choice not just in where you explore—but how. Prefer the up-close access and intimate feeling of a small group trip? Travel with Discovery Tours, our sister company that opens up doors that large groups just can’t access. Italy your way is always possible with Gate 1.

For the richest discoveries at the best value, join Gate 1 and discover the timeless appeal of Italy!

Lovers of European history and culture can’t get enough of the continent. But many gravitate toward central and southern Europe. And as many Gate 1 travelers will tell you, they’re missing out. In the continent’s northern reaches, sweeping vistas and rich cultures unlike anywhere else on Earth are begging to be explored: deep, dramatic fjords and colossal glaciers shimmer in untouched splendor … charming farmhouses dwarfed by soaring peaks nestle in gently sloping valleys of green … cosmopolitan cities and quaint villages are married to the ebb and flow of the sea … a fascinating past stretches all the way to the Viking Age. What’s more, it’s all celebrated in some of the world’s most magnificent painting, music and literature borne from passionate national pride.

Norway’s Rich Culture and Magnificent Fjords

Norwegian Oslo exudes all the flair of any major European capital. The city takes full advantage of its seaside location, boasting a beautifully restored quay and a modern, world-class Opera House that slopes dramatically into the water. This innovative structure only hints at the city’s – and the nation’s – deep desire to stay connected to the natural world. You can witness the full expression of this desire at Vigeland Sculpture Park, a stunning outdoor installation of 212 bronze and granite sculptures depicting various stages of life. The artist behind these figures, Gustav Vigeland, is also beloved as the designer of the Nobel Peace Prize medal, which is awarded each year in Oslo’s City Hall. To glimpse Scandinavia’s Viking past, you can opt to visit three restored ships used by the explorers 1,200 years ago.

If the cosmopolitan beauty of Oslo takes your breath away, Norway’s natural beauty will send your spirit soaring. Lillehammer, situated at the northern end of Lake Mjosa, hosted the 1994 Winter Olympic Games and you’ll understand why when you witness its alpine setting. The town of Lom is home to one of the best preserved stave churches in the country, its wooden structure taking inspiration from its woodland surroundings. It was built without a single nail! But perhaps there is no more inspirational feature of Norway than its fjords.

Cruising the glacier-carved fjords is surely one of life’s most unforgettable and astonishing experiences. Depending on your itinerary, you’ll savor a leisurely cruise through Sognefjord, the longest and deepest of them all, and witness the magnificent natural splendor of these glacier-carved landscapes during a ride on the legendary Flam railway, passing flower-filled pastures, waterfalls and snow-covered peaks. This spectacular train journey, one of the world’s most scenic, climbs to 3,000 feet in 12 miles, delivering you to unbelievable vistas.

Nestled amidst it all is the historic coastal city of Bergen, capital of history’s Hanseatic League, the mercantile trade organization that controlled much of northern Europe’s trade in the Middle Ages. Its neat and pretty wooden structures recall the heydays when cargo ships unloaded pelts, spice, bronze and countless other wares from distant lands, filling the coffers of local merchants with endless riches. Today’s fish market still bustles with shoppers and made-to-order lunch stalls. Visit the Bergen Museum to learn more about this influential city’s fascinating past.

There is no more breathtaking way to take in the pristine and remote beauty of Norway than on a coastal cruise. You’ll trace the routes of postal ships, stopping at culture-rich cities and charming villages tucked into stunning fjords along the way. Exact itineraries of our multiple-night cruises vary. You might disembark to admire the Art Nouveau architecture of Alesund, rebuilt in this style after a fire destroyed the city in the early 20^th century. Explore Trondheim, Norway’s oldest city and original capital. Cross the Arctic Circle, where you might spot sea eagles amidst the dramatic vistas of Bodo. Visit the Lofoten and Vesteralen Islands, known for their soaring granite cliffs and tiny fishing villages. Stop in Tromso, historic gateway to the northerly polar reaches, and witness the northernmost points of Europe during a call to Honningsvag or Hammerfest. Take all these sites in, and so much more, as you cruise among magnificent fjords and past staggering coastal mountains.

Sweden’s Grand Historic Capital

Spread across a vast archipelago, Stockholm is Sweden’s scintillating capital. Three of the city’s historic buildings stand out. The Royal Palace, a vast Italian-Baroque wonder and home to the Swedish royal family, overlooks the water from its perch on the island of Stadsholmen. Riddarholm Church, with its tall spire pointing skyward from the island of Riddarholmen, was the royal burial place until 1950. And the Romanesque City Hall on the island of Kungsholmen, with architectural touches that mirror the great buildings of Venice, hosts the Nobel Prize banquet each year. The city’s Gamla Stan, or Old Town, is a delightful maze of cobbled streets that lead to inviting squares surrounded by gabled houses and grand public buildings.

Second only to Stockholm in size and cultural offerings, Gothenburg is a lively university town. Many call it the friendliest city in Sweden, if not all of Scandinavia. One thing is certain: Its youthful vibe is truly contagious. You can tour this vibrant city via its charming 17^th-century canals.

Denmark’s Fairytale Splendor

South of Sweden across the five-mile Oresund Bridge lies the island of Zealand, part of the nation of Denmark and home to the Danish capital, Copenhagen. The city is a delightful amalgam of elegant palaces, fairytale streets and beautiful public spaces. But amidst all the city’s grandiosity, every visitor is drawn to the Little Mermaid statue in the quaint park of Langelinie. The charming sculpture is based on the fairy tale written by the city’s native son, Hans Christian Andersen. During your stay in this pretty city, try a traditional smorrebrod, the Danish version of an open-faced sandwich. And if you wish, venture out of town to visit some of the country’s famed castles, including Elsinor, made famous by Shakespeare when he penned Hamlet.

Iceland’s Primeval Beauty

It’s easy to forget that Iceland is part of Scandinavia. But once you visit, you’ll surely never forget the unspoiled natural beauty that seems to steer you back to the very beginning of Earth’s origins.

Reykjavik is the nation’s gateway and the world’s northernmost capital city. You can get a good look at the city layout from Oskjuhlid Hill, where the lookout spot of Perlan provides excellent views. But you’ll want a closer look. As you explore the city, you’ll no doubt notice a charm reminiscent of smaller-scale buildings from the continent’s Old Towns. No grand palaces and enormous open squares here, just a delightful fully functioning city frozen in time that befits the nation’s small population. You’ll see the modest stone Parliament and the adjacent Cathedral, the National Museum, and the Hofdi House, where Reagan and Gorbachev famously met in 1986. Of course, a trip to the Reykjavik area isn’t complete without a soak in the geothermal waters of the famous Blue Lagoon.

Outside Reykjavik, the modern day seems to slip away as you step into an untouched, primitive world marked by volcanic slopes, glaciers, waterfalls and geysers in a starkly beautiful landscape free of trees. Traversing this barren terrain, you can’t help but feel that this is what the earth must have looked like in primeval days. And you wouldn’t be far from the truth: Geologically, Iceland is a young land and its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge makes it an active and ever-changing zone. You’ll hear more about this during a visit to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located right on the ridge.

Witness all this breathtaking natural beauty when you stop to marvel at Dyrholaey Nature Reserve on the South Shore, admire the sheer splendor of Skaftafell National Park, thrill to the famous Gullfoss waterfall, and explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula with its colossal Snaefellsjokull Glacier. That’s only a fraction of the unforgettable natural sites you’ll view.

Throughout your exploration on our Classic Iceland tour, you’ll stop to witness Icelandic culture and history, whether at the Skogar Folk Museum, the Fridheimar Tomato Farm, the Bjanarhofn Farm or the Settlement Center at Borgarnes, which chronicles the history of the Vikings here. Learn about the impact of global warming on the country’s glaciers, and hear how geothermal energy and a thriving greenhouse culture have helped Iceland harness energy in the most efficient manner.

To see even more of Iceland, choose the Kaleidoscope of Iceland tour, which circles the country on its world-famous ring road. See Akureyri, Iceland’s “cultural capital of the north”, and the exquisite Lake Myvatn and Dettifoss waterfall. Or you might wish to join the small group Discovery tour Iceland, Natural Force & Beauty, where you’ll have the chance to explore an ice cave inside Langjökull Glacier, and go on a whale watching boat trip in northern Iceland.

So Many Ways to Explore Scandinavia with Gate 1

The beauty of Gate 1 Travel is the many options you’ll enjoy as you decide how you’d best like to discover Scandinavia. If Russia is on your bucket list, for instance, then you’ll want to join our Scandinavia & Russia trip. In addition to exploring Copenhagen, Gothenburg, and Stockholm, you’ll spend one night on a Baltic Sea ferry and two nights in Helsinki, Finland’s stylish and historic capital. Then board a high-speed train for a scenic journey to St. Petersburg, Peter the Great’s gilded city and home to the priceless collections of the Hermitage Museum. Continue by train to Moscow, Russia’s fascinating capital, where you can view the magnificent Faberge Eggs at the Armory Museum and explore the nation’s grandest gathering spot, Red Square, with its colorful onion-domed St. Basil’s Cathedral.

Get a closer look at Scandinavia when you explore with a small group on our Discovery Tours Scandinavia, Naturally Charming itinerary. Immerse yourself in the glories of Stockholm, Bergen, and Oslo. Plus, in Sweden, explore the architectural diversity of Falun and take in the alpine setting and Olympic venues of Lillehammer. In Norway, marvel at what many have called the most spectacular scenery in the world in Geiranger, nestled in a dramatic fjord, and visit Sogndal, home to a stunning stave church, one of the largest in Norway.

For More Natural Wonders, Look to the Sky

No one brings you this close to Scandinavia. And when you travel to these northern nations at the height of summer, you’ll enjoy them to their fullest, thanks to the near-constant Midnight Sun. Off season, too, has its advantages. The farther north you travel, the more likely you are to view the fantastical Northern Lights, a stunning celestial light show that illuminates the night sky in greens, blues and reds.  Of course, Gate 1 can never guarantee sightings, but should you join us at the right time of year, your Tour Manager will monitor conditions to increase your chances.

Discover Spectacular Scandinavia with Gate 1 Travel!

Join Gate 1 in Scandinavia and add its glorious cultural capitals, astonishing fjords, staggering mountains and dramatic landscapes to your favorite European destinations. And do so knowing that you’ll enjoy the best value in the industry, and the most rewarding experience. Join us!