ANZAC EUROPE TOUR 2026
Day 1 - Sat 09 May
On arrival at Istanbul International Airport, you'll be met by our transfer operator, and privately transferred to our downtown hotel, with, depending on arrival time a chance to relax, or sample a Turkish coffee, before tonight's welcome dinner. (D)Day 2 - Sun 10 May
Formerly the city of Byzantium, the Roman Emperor Constantine renamed it Constantinople in 330 AD, and it became the Capital of the Ottoman Empire. Following Turkey's independence in 1923, it was again renamed as Istanbul, with Ankara becoming the capital city. After a leisurely breakfast, we'll commence a full day of sightseeing, including Sultan Ahmet (the Blue Mosque), Haga Sofia Grand Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum, and the Basilica Cistern, with lunch included. This evening is free to dine out at your leisure, and sample some local cuisine. Kebabs, maybe, or some Turkish delight? (BL)Day 3 - Mon 11 May
Today we drive to a place that is a household name to all New Zealanders and Australians, following the disastrous WW1 attempt to take the peninsula following the landings on 25 April, 1915. Known locally as Gelibolu, our guide will point out places of interest, such as ANZAC Cove, Chunuk Bair, and Lone Pine. We'll lay poppies at an appropriate memorial. After a short ferry ride across the Dardenelle Straits, which separate Europe from Asia, and allows shipping access to the Sea of Marmara, Istanbul, and the Black Sea, we stay at nearby Canakkale. Tonight we dine at a seafood restaurant on the shores of the Dardenelles. No doubt we'll reflect on the terrible waste of life and truly understand the significance of the source of the ANZAC brand. More than 8,700 Australians, and 2779 New Zealanders were killed at Gallipoli. (BLD)Day 4 - Tues 12 May
We begin today's journey by re-crossing the Dardanelles, and visiting a museum at nearby Anafart. We then return to Istanbul, having lunch on the way and visit the unique Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest in the world. An amazing maze of 61 covered streets, over 4,000 shops and with a total area of 30,700 square metres, the challenge is to not get lost! The sparkle of jewellery, the fragrance of spices, and the hustle and bustle of myriad shopkeepers, all intent on selling you their wares. Tonight we'll dine at our special restaurant - belly dancing anybody? (BLD)Day 5 - Wed 13 May
Today's flight of around 2½ hours takes us over western Turkey, and the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea to Cairo, capital city of Egypt. A sprawling city of 10 million people situated on the Nile, it has seen many ancient civilisations come and go. After being met by our local guide we will check into our hotel, with free time to check the local scene before our included dinner. From donkey carts, to the muezzins' call to prayers this ageless UNESCO Heritage City continues to enthral. (BD)Day 6 - Thu 14 May
The Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, with almost 4,000 years of history, are the last of the Ancient 7 Wonders of the World remaining. Like millions of people before you, gaze in awe at these incredible feats of construction and wonder how they were built. This afternoon we visit the Egyptian Museum which houses the world's largest collection of Egyptian antiquities - 170,000 artefacts in total. They include items from the Tomb of Tutankhamun, one of the world's most exciting archaeological finds, over a century ago. Also see vast treasures and 'real live mummies'! This evening is free to find a restaurant of your choice. (B)Day 7- Fri 15 May
Cairo and its surrounding areas played a major role as a base for our ANZACs and other Allied troops in both World Wars. However in late 1942 NZ troops played a decisive part in the defeat of Rommel's Axis army by Field Marshall Bernard Montgomery's 8th Army at El Alamein, barely 3hrs drive away. An early start will give us the opportunity to see another iconic place enshrined in our ANZAC history, where we visit a War Cemetery, and also a Museum. Ultimately being an Allied victory, the North African campaign claimed many lives - 2,989 New Zealanders, and 2,694 Australians. After laying poppies, we'll return to Cairo in the evening, where we can dine at our leisure. (B)Day 8 - Sat 16 May
Cairo has many museums, mosques, and Coptic Christian churches that may interest you, or maybe shop in the famous Khan el Khalili Market? Perhaps wander around Tahrir Square, and pop into one of the many local cafes? Tonight we'll dine in a nearby restaurant for our last night in Egypt. (BD)Day 9 - Sun 17 May
This morning we fly via Athens to Chania, the spiritual capital of the island of Crete, which is the largest in Greece and the 5th largest in the Mediterranean and whose history dates back thousands of years to beyond the Minoan Civilization. On arrival we'll be transferred to our hotel where, before dinner in its restaurant, there'll be time to perhaps wander to a nearby bar to tickle the taste-buds with an ouzo? (BD)Day 10 - Mon 18 May
Today we drive to the Commonwealth War Cemetery at Souda Bay where many of the 691 New Zealand and 274 Australian soldiers, killed on Crete during WW2, are buried. Our excursion will then drive us southward following the rugged route taken to the Sfakion Coast by a large part of the retreating forces. During our guided visit we'll learn about the Battle of Crete and our involvement under Brigadier James Hargest and Lieutenant-General Bernard Freyberg, in May/June 1941. The people of Crete still have great respect for New Zealand & Australian visitors, as many ANZACS were cut off from the evacuation and stayed on, hiding in the hills and caves, while assisting Greek partisans battle the German occupiers. From another defeat the ANZAC brand grew stronger. We'll also visit the area of Meleme Airport, a crucial objective for the Germans and the scene of some of the most intensive fighting. (B)Day 11 - Tue 19 May
Chania's Old Quarter and Port are both charming and historic. One can easily spend hours strolling around the harbour, checking the wares in the stalls and shops or visiting some of a range of attractions. We may also choose to spend some of our time on one of the local beaches or, perhaps, go sailing or driving on one of a range of trips on offer. For the more active and adventurous there is, of course, the famed walking excursion to the Samaria Gorge which, at 18km, is Europe's longest. Maybe dinner at a Greek tavern this evening? Look out for Zorba! (B)Day 12 - Wed 20 May
Our journey eastwards today brings us to Heraklion the capital of Crete. On route we travel past Rethymnon, which saw so much of the fighting during the war. Then it's on to Knossos where we stop for a guided visit of the ancient Minoan Palace. This is the stand-out archaeological site of Crete and home to the Minotaur, the half-bull and half-man creature who lived in the labyrinth. The Archaeological Museum will bring the world of the Minoans gloriously to colourful life. One cannot be but amazed by what that ancient civilization achieved. Crete is truly a land of myth and legend. Tradition has it that even Zeus, the lead god of ancient times, was born and even buried here! Later, a short drive brings us to our hotel in Heraklion where there'll be time to relax before dinner in its restaurant. An evening stroll to the old Venetian Harbour anyone? (BD)Day 13 - Thu 21 May
This morning we fly to Athens, the capital city of Greece, and an ancient City State in its own right, dating back more than 5,000 years to the Mycenaean civilisation. It is often termed the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation', and the 'Birthplace of Democracy', and has a current population of over 3.5m. After arrival at the airport, we'll be met and transferred to our hotel. After time to settle in and freshen up we'll all walk into the Monasteraki district and the famous Plaka, teeming with its many shops, market stalls, cafes and tavernas. Our orientation tour will allow time to soak up the atmosphere and partake of a bit of retail therapy before a local taverna welcomes us to dinner with music and dancing! (BD)Day 14 - Fri 22 May
Our local guide joins us this morning and the Acropolis beckons, with its many ruins including the Parthenon, a 5th century BC temple which was dedicated to the goddess Athena. We'll walk to this historic site, with a breath-taking view over Athens, before we join our coach to view other city sights including the first Olympic Stadium of the modern age and Syntagma Square. This afternoon and evening is ours to pursue our own interests. Perhaps visit other historic sites and then return to the Plaka and a taverna for dinner where the conversation will perhaps include a little philosophy, or maybe the geometrical theorems of Pythagoras? (B)Day 15 - Sat 23 May
Our drive north today takes us past the Pass of Thermopylae where Leonidas, King of the Spartans, and his 300 men formed the rear guard against Xerxes and his 30,000 Persians in 480BC. Our destination is Kalambaka in Thessaly, a town known throughout the world due to the legendary monasteries built on top of the Meteora rocks, located near the eastern and northern part of the township. On arrival we'll first meet our guide and explore two of these incredible structures in this UNESCO World Heritage site before continuing to our hotel and our included dinner of local cuisine for our last night in Greece. (BD)Day 16 - Sun 24 May
Today we have a leisurely start to what is a very scenic and interesting day. We'll be driving through rugged countryside, typical of the terrain where Allied troops were forced to abandon the Aliekmon Line (although we won't actually be near it), which followed the Aliekmon River to the eastern coast, near Mt Olympus. Driven south by the German forces, the Allies were evacuated to Crete, where they faced further defeat. After departing Kalambaka and driving on part of the 'new' Via Egnatia (the ancient one having been built by the Romans in the 2nd century BC to connect the Adriatic and Black Seas via Thessaloniki) our first stop is in the picturesque mountain town of Metsovo where they specialise in wood carving and weaving, along with producing the famed Katoyi wine. Next it's on to view the Vikos Gorge (in the Zagoria region, another UNESCO World Heritage site) which, at 1350 metres, is the deepest in the world relative to its width. Later, in the early evening, we'll stop in Ioannina, the largest city of the Epirus region, where we'll have time to walk up into the Ottoman citadel and admire the views over the lake and to wander in the old town and perhaps partake of a last souvlaki before we continue to Igoumenitsa to board our ferry for the overnight crossing of the Adriatic Sea, to Bari in Italy. (B)Day 17 - Mon 25 May
This morning we disembark our overnight ferry in Bari, a bustling port on Italy's southeast coast. After meeting our Italian coach and driver we'll drive westward across the Italian peninsula towards the Bay of Naples and our next UNESCO World Heritage Site, the famous archaeological city of Pompeii, which was buried in ash following an eruption of Mt Vesuvius in 79 AD. Our guided tour will reveal in detail many facets of every-day life in the Roman Empire and then, after a short drive, we'll arrive in Sorrento, a holiday destination beautifully situated across the water from both the Bay and the volcano and widely known for its ceramic, lace and woodwork shops. This evening we'll dine in our hotel. A shot of limoncello or grappa anyone? (D)Day 18 - Tue 26 May
A highlight of a stay in Sorrento is a visit to the Isle of Capri and this morning, after a relaxing breakfast, we'll be transferred to the Port of Sorrento to board our ferry to take us there. On arrival at the island's Marina Grande there'll be ample time to explore the island at our own pace. A ticket to ride the funicular up and down to Capri town is included with our ferry ticket but other sightseeing activities are available at an extra cost. Options include a boat ride to the amazing Blue Grotto, a chairlift up Monte Solaro and perhaps for something different, a classic convertible taxi tour of the Island, past where WW2 sweetheart Gracie Fields was a well-known resident in her retiring years? Later in the afternoon we'll ferry back to Sorrento where this evening is free for us to dine at leisure, perhaps in our hotel or a local ristorante or trattoria? (B)Day 19 - Wed 27 May
A short journey today takes us to another WW2 place of sacrifice by New Zealand troops, albeit they were critical in the eventual success of the costly campaign to drive the Germans from their stronghold on Monte Cassino. We visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery, and tour the Abbey, which was rebuilt after being destroyed by heavy Allied bombing. The Maori Battalion distinguished itself here, and German Field Marshall Erwin Rommel is reputed to have once said 'Give me a Maori Battalion and I will conquer the world'. Again we pay tribute, by laying poppies. This evening we dine at our hotel. (BD)Day 20 - Thu 28 May
Built around Seven Hills, and on the River Tiber, the 'Eternal City' of Rome dates back over 3 millennia. After a 2hr scenic drive our arrival here will commence with an orientation tour of the main sights of one of the world's oldest and most famous cities, including the Colosseum, the Victor Emmanuel Monument, the Circus Maximus and the Baths of Caraculla. After checking in to our hotel, this evening is free to do what the Romans do, perhaps visit the Piazza Navona, and... La dolce vita - Carpe diem! (B)Day 21 - Fri 29 May
This morning, before departing Rome, we'll join our local guide for a tour of the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City. Then we continue north to visit Orvieto, a small town perched on a volcanic rock cliff, and surrounded by fortified walls. We'll be introduced to one of the most beautiful churches in the world, the Cathedral of Orvieto along with an interesting underground network of Etruscan tunnels and caves, which were carved into the rock to provide cover for the citizens during times of siege. There'll be time to visit these sites, stroll among the town's medieval palaces or perhaps people-watch over a coffee before we continue to San Gimignano, another UNESCO site and medieval hill town in Tuscany, encircled by 13th century walls. Known as the 'Town of Fine Towers', its towers give it an 'unforgettable skyline' while its impressive medieval architecture in its many piazzas is well worth exploring. This evening we enjoy a Tuscan dinner in our hotel. (BD)Day 22 - Sat 30 May
Today we'll take the opportunity to travel like the locals when we use public transport to journey through the Tuscan hills into the UNESCO World Heritage city of Florence, with its history of commerce, finance, politics, art and all things cultural. On arrival we'll meet our local guide and visit the Accademia, the home to Michelangelo's David, before our walking tour takes in the magnificent Santa Maria del Fiore, the Piazza della Signoria and the Ponte Vecchio. As Florence is famous for leather goods and the production of gold jewellery there'll be time this afternoon to explore the many shops and markets. Perhaps a new stylish leather jacket, handbag or gold chain? A late afternoon departure will see us back in San Gimignano in time to further explore the town and find a local trattoria or ristorante for tonight's dinner. (B)Day 23 - Sun 31 May
Tuscany is renowned for its stunning landscapes and the region is famous for its picturesque rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, offering breath-taking views and a tranquil atmosphere. After a leisurely breakfast we'll join our coach for a serene drive through this enchanting countryside which is also celebrated for its illustrious wines. Particularly Chianti, so we'll visit charming villages associated with this eminent wine such as Castellina in Chianti and Greve in Chianti. Of course, we'll visit a winery for a tasting accompanied by a Tuscan light lunch! We'll return to our hotel with plenty of time to further explore San Gimignano with its squares and alleys lined with shops. (BL)Day 24 - Mon 01 June
San Gimignano - San Marino (1 night)
Our first stop this morning is the Florence War Cemetery at San Jacopo al Girone, just outside Florence. 243 New Zealand soldiers are buried here, from the North Italian campaign, following the fall of Rome to the
Allies. After paying tribute to the fallen, we continue across the Appenines to San Marino, arriving in the early afternoon. San Marino is a Democratic Republic, and excluded itself from the unification of Italy
in 1861. It has remained neutral, and wasn't invaded in WWII. Yet another UNESCO World Heritage site, built on the slopes of Mt Titano and landlocked by surrounding Italy, it has a population of just 4100. With a
varied general economy, including tourism, banking, and the printing of postage stamps, it is considered one of the wealthiest countries in the world. After exploring the sights of San Marino (including perhaps
the Museum of Torture?) we'll take dinner in our hotel this evening. (BD)
Day 25 - Tue 02 June
San Marino - Lake Maggiore (1 night)
We leave the Republic of San Marino this morning, and head north, through territory where NZ troops were heavily involved in driving the German Army out of Italy. Nearby Rimini was a major battleground, involving
both the Maori Battalion, and a NZ tank division, alongside Greek and Canadian forces. Keeping the Apennine Mountains to our left we'll skirt along the edge of the River Po plain driving through a further 3 of Italy's
20 regions - Emilia Romagna, Lombardi and Piedmont. Eventually our scenic route will cross the plain and head towards the spectacular Alpine glacial valleys and the stunning Lake Maggiore. Tonight we'll stay in the
vicinity of Stresa, the most well-known resort on the lake and this evening we'll dine in our hotel. (BD)
Day 26 - Wed 03 June
Lake Maggiore - Lucerne (2 nights)
The beauty of the Italian Lakes District has captivated an untold number of hearts and this morning we'll take a short, not to be missed, cruise to the Isola Bella to enjoy a guided tour of Count Vitaliano Borromeo's
baroque Palace and splendid Gardens. Then we'll commence our journey into the spectacular Alpine glacial valleys and lakes of Switzerland. Besides experiencing the incredible natural scenery, we'll also witness the
amazing engineering feats that created the motorways and tunnels of Europe by driving through the St Gotthard Road Tunnel. Built in 1980, and at a length of 16.9kms, it was the world's longest tunnel at the time.
After arrival at our hotel, there is time to join in an orientation stroll of the ever popular and charming centre of Lucerne before tonight's included dinner. (BD)
Day 27 - Thu 04 June
Lucerne - Sightseeing
After a leisurely breakfast, we can stroll around Lucerne's medieval cobbled streets, visiting attractions such as the Lion Monument, the Chapel Bridge, or maybe the amazing Bourbaki Panorama? Of course, there is the
lakeshore with its amazing views, not to forget that Switzerland is famed for its clocks, watches, and chocolate. There is also the optional choice of a mountain excursion, such as the spectacular chairlift &
gondola ride up nearby Mt Titlis. Our evening meal is included at a Swiss Folklore show, which includes the alpenhorn, cowbells, and flag throwing. (BD)
Day 28 - Fri 05 June
Lucerne - Vaduz - Salzburg (3 nights)
Today's journey takes us eastward through the Alpine regions of both Switzerland and Austria, with a short stop this morning in Vaduz, capital city of Liechtenstein. Surrounded by mountains, we continue through
Innsbruck, in the heart of the Austrian Tirol region, to the beautiful city of Salzburg. Birthplace of Mozart, and setting for the film 'The Sound of Music', Salzburg is a Mecca for classical music of all genres,
with the imposing 11th Century Schloss Hohensalzburg overlooking the city. After our arrival, we have time for a drink before an included meal at our hotel. (BD)
Day 29 - Sat 06 June
Salzburg - Sightseeing
This morning we take a walking tour around this UNESCO World Heritage city, situated on both banks of the Salzach River. The name Salzburg (Salt Castle) is derived from the salt trade, where salt was extracted by
tunnelling into nearby hills and mountains, dating back to the 8th century. Continually occupied since the Neolithic Period, becoming an important city of the Holy Roman Empire when it became the seat of the
Salzburg Archbishopric in the 14th century, and being included in Nazi Germany's 'Anschluss' of Austria in 1938, Salzburg has seen many historical changes. Most of the architectural style in the Aldstadt (Old City)
is Baroque, but there also exists Gothic and Romanesque from prior periods. We see Mirabelle Palace, Mozart Platz, Residentz Platz, the Cathedral (Dom) and St Peters Abbey, a Benedictine monastery, and Mozart's
birthplace in the main shopping street, Getriedegasse 9. Many of these attractions feature in the film 'The Sound of Music'. We'll then visit Schloss Hohensalzburg, considered to be the largest preserved fortress
in Europe, with a splendid view over the city, river, and background Alps. A restaurant on the fortress wall is suggested for lunch, followed by a visit to the museums, which house a collection of medieval artefacts,
including Roman coins, a model kitchen, and an impressive array of armour and weapons. This afternoon and evening are free to explore further - maybe the many museums and galleries, or the shops and boutiques of
Getriedegasse? For music lovers, Mozart's birthplace and Residence both offer insights to his life and genius. Tonight, your choice, but maybe dine at the Augustinerkeller, a brewery and restaurant in what was once
an Augustine monastery. Schnitzel and apfelstrudel perhaps? (B)
Day 30 - Sun 07 June
Salzburg - Excursion to Hitler's Eagles' Nest
Built by Nazi Party leaders as a surprise for Hitler's 50th birthday in 1939, this mountain top lodge was seldom visited by him because he didn't have a head for heights! We drive to nearby Berchtesgaden, over the
German border, and then catch a shuttle bus up the alpine road to what is now known as Hitler's Eagles' Nest. There is a commanding view over nearby valleys and mountains. It was near Berchtesgaden, on the Konigsee,
where Hitler had his holiday home, the Berghof, and underground bunker system. As we return to Salzburg, we visit Schloss Hellbrunn, with its entertaining fountains. A tribute to 17th Century engineering, and the
obvious humour of the Prince - Archbishop, Markus Sitticus. Upon our return to Salzburg, this evening is again free, and offers the chance to attend a classical music concert. (B)
Day 31 - Mon 08 June
Salzburg - Munich (3 nights)
Our route to Munich today takes us through some smaller rural towns, two of them with an interesting or quirky story to tell. Let's just say that one involves a Xmas carol, and the other a name-change! After crossing
into Germany, we visit the Dachau Concentration Camp, one of the first to open in 1933, and where, initially, political prisoners were interned. The rest of the horror story needs no introduction, but suffice it to
say that it is a very moving experience to visit the site. Tonight we have an included meal at our hotel, with the challenge of which local brew to taste first. (BD)
Day 32 - Tue 09 June
Munich - Sightseeing
Known internationally for its annual Oktoberfest, Munich is the capital of the state of Bavaria, and the 4th largest city in Germany. Built on the Isar River, it was an important prehistoric trade route, with
evidence of Bronze and Iron-age settlement, and in the 8th century was the site of a settlement of monks, or 'Munichen". Munich has a rich and varied history, albeit tainted by the rise of Hitler and the National
Socialist Party, aka the Nazi Party. The famed Hofbrauhaus Beerhall was where he attempted 'the Beerhall Putsch' in 1923. Munich was bombed heavily during WW2. Our sightseeing today includes a visit to the Deutches
(German) Museum, an incredible display of German technological discoveries and inventions, including a planetarium, and many interactive features. A drive around and through the city takes us to BMW World, a
futuristic museum which shows the development of this luxury brand over the last 100 years. We drive past the 1972 Olympic Stadium, where NZ triumphed in the Rowing 8's, and 11 Israeli athletes were killed by
Palestinian Black September terrorists. Our next stop is downtown Munich, with its pedestrian-only shopping and entertainment area. We walk around this cobblestone area, which connects Karlsplatz to the central
Marienplatz, and see the New City Hall with its famous Glockenspiel. Maybe a bit of shopping, or perhaps it's time to head to the Hofbrauhaus for a litre or two of its famous beer, accompanied by traditional Bavarian
beerhall music. We dine here at our leisure this evening. Maybe a roast knuckle of pork, or wurst, sauerkraut and dumplings? (B)
Day 33 - Wed 10 June
Munich - Sightseeing
After breakfast, today is free to further explore downtown Munich, ensuring that we're in Marienplatz at 11:00 am to see the Glockenspiel in action. Figurines depicting knights on horseback, or twirling dancers, rotate
to the sound of the carillon. Choices today include the Frauenkirche, Old City Hall, Art galleries, and the German Hunting & Fishing Museum. Perhaps some retail therapy, or a visit to the Englischer Garten, with
its outdoor Beer Garden? Maybe the Zoo? With myriad options for dining this evening, the choice is yours. (B)
Day 34 - Thu 11 June
Munich - Nuremburg (2 nights)
Our first destination today is Regensburg, in eastern Bavaria, travelling through rural forested countryside. Yet another UNESCO Heritage site, medieval Regensberg is situated at the confluence of the Danube, Regen,
and Naab Rivers. The city's history includes being overrun by Napoleon in 1809 and was the scene of Jewish persecution on Kristallnacht, when on 9 November 1938, a synagogue and some homes and shops were destroyed,
with 220 Jews arrested. During WW2, a Messerschmitt 109 factory was established here, being the reason for Allied bombing in 1943 and 1945. We have free time and lunch before continuing our journey. Perhaps the
sausage kitchen, near the historic 12th century Stone Bridge? We continue to Nuremburg, which is situated on the Pegnitz River, and the Danube-Main-Rhine Canal. We have time to relax before our included dinner
at our hotel. (BD)
Day 35 - Fri 12 June
Nuremburg - Sightseeing
The largest city in the Franconia area of Bavaria, Nuremburg was central to both the German Renaissance and Reformation movements. Our sightseeing today includes a walking tour through the pedestrian-only centre of
medieval Nuremburg, seeing the Imperial Castle and city walls, the Gothic St Lorenz Church, and the Holy Spirit Hospital, built in 1339, initially to house lepers. Although Nuremburg has 54 Museums, and many churches
and cultural centres, it is mainly remembered for the influence of Adolf Hitler. We visit the Stadium where he held his huge propaganda rallies, and the War Trials Museum, where many Nazi leaders were tried for war
crimes, and imprisoned or executed. The rest of the day is free to explore the handcrafts and Christmas shops which abound, or maybe check out their claim as the Gingerbread Capital of the World? Maybe Richard Wagner's
'Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg' is in town? It was one of Hitler's favourite operas. Composer Johann Pachelbel was from Nuremburg, and his 17th century 'Canon in D' is still universally popular. Maybe we want to
check for a local concert? There are many traditional Franconian 'wein und bierstuben' restaurants to choose from this evening. (B)
Day 36 - Sat 13 June
Nuremburg - Luxembourg (1 night)
Our journey this morning generally follows the direction of the Rhine River, to the town of Rudesheim am Rhein, in the Rheingau wine growing region. This is our lunch stop, so we'll also visit the amazing Siegfried's
Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, housed in a 15th century knight's residence. From small music box, to huge orchestral sound, the 400 different instruments are a tribute to musical technicians of yesteryear. After
lunch, we continue through Germany to Luxembourg, a fortified city which is perched on precipitous cliffs, above deep gorges. We dine this evening at our hotel. (BD)
Day 37 - Sun 14 June
Luxembourg - Valenciennes (2 nights)
Luxembourg is a de facto capital of the European Union, hosting many European Commission departments and services. The IMF has graded it the country with the highest GDP in the world, with $140,300 (PPP), being a
major banking and administration centre. The city population is 135,000, consisting of 160 different nationalities, of whom 70% are foreign. This morning we tour around the city, viewing the impressive fortifications,
the Grand Ducal Palace, Adolphe Bridge, and the Gothic Cathedral of Notre Dame. This afternoon we drive through Belgium to Valenciennes in France, a short drive from Le Quesnoy. We will have time to relax before our
hotel dinner tonight. (BD)
Day 38 - Mon 15 June
Valenciennes - Excursion to Le Quesnoy
Le Quesnoy - the last major WW1 offensive by NZ Troops on 4 November, 1918, just a week before the Armistice, with the loss of 122 killed. German troops had occupied the town for 4 years, and rather than bombard the
ramparts, risking civilian lives, the NZ Command decided to attack the Germans by climbing a ladder and going over the walls. No civilian lives were lost, and the citizens welcomed their liberators with open arms. This
overwhelming gratitude still exists, and many streets have been named in honour of the event, such as Rue de Nouvelle Zelande, Rue Aotearoa and Rue Helene Clark. The NZ Liberation Museum, in a converted 1890's manor
house, was opened on 11 October, 2023. We spend all day in Le Quesnoy, and following our guided tour we have free time to soak up the atmosphere of this typically French town, with so many memories, both good and bad.
We dine at our leisure in the local restaurants and cafes before returning to our hotel in Valenciennes. Perhaps the Restaurant Le Maori will be on our list? (B)
Day 39 - Tue 16 June
Valenciennes - Ieper (2 nights)
From one ANZAC theatre of war to another, today we drive past Lille and Armentieres (where the Madamoiselle resides!) back into Belgium, a constitutional monarchy. The country is divided into 3 Regions, with Dutch
speaking Flanders in the North, Brussels-Capital in the centre, and French speaking Wallonia in the south (Ieper is spelt Ypres in French). Ieper is near to the battlefields of Passchendaele, and a major landmark
is the Menin Gate, which commemorates the British Commonwealth fallen, with no known gravesite, up to August 1917. The NZ fallen are commemorated at nearby Tyne Cot Cemetery. Ever since 1929, the Last Post has been
played at the Menin Gate nightly at 8pm, except for the years of German occupation in WW2. During Covid lockdown, a lone bugler played, but there were no crowds. Upon our arrival, we can visit the rebuilt Cloth Hall,
which houses the 'In Flanders Fields' museum, named for the famous poem by Canadian John McRae. After an included dinner at our hotel, we will attend the Menin Gate Ceremony. (BD)
Day 40 - Wed 17 June
Ieper - Excursion to the Passchendaele Battlefields
Today we take a guided tour of the surrounding Ypres Salient battlefields and War Cemeteries, including Tyne Cot Cemetery. Incredibly, unexploded shells are still emerging from what was the mud and slush of pulverised
battlefields, and pose a threat to local farmers and visitors. One can only imagine what it was like at the time. After our tour we return to Ieper, with free time to visit other places of interest, or maybe shop for
Belgian lace? World famous Belgian beers deserve a sampling, as do the local wines, with your dinner of choice this evening, and perhaps attend the moving Menin Gate Ceremony again. (B)
Day 41 - Thu 18 June
Dunkirk - Somme - Paris (3 nights)
After breakfast we head back into France, and the coastal city and beaches of Dunkirk, where the massive evacuation of 338,000 Allied troops took place in May/June 1940, and ending the 6 week Battle of France. We
visit the Dunkirk Museum which explains in detail the events of this operation, and has a great collection of uniforms, weapons, and maps. From here we head towards Paris, stopping at Caterpillar Valley War Cemetery
in the Somme. ANZAC's received great praise from British generals, in spite of heavy losses. The Battle of the Somme was along a 40km front on the River Somme, part of the Western Front, lasting 5 months from
September 1916. NZ troops were involved for 23 days, with 6700 casualties, including 2000 deaths. Today we look for family connections commemorated here. After arrival in Paris later this evening, we have an
included dinner at our hotel. (BD)
Day 42 - Fri 19 June
Paris - Sightseeing
Today's sightseeing will be a tour around some of the main attractions of Paris including a visit to the Palace of Versailles where the Treaty of Versailles was signed on 28 June 1919. This followed the Armistice
of 11 November 1918 which ended WW1. However the terms of the war reparations exacted by the Allies only helped fuel the aspirations of Hitler and the support of the German people during the subsequent years of
economic hardship. Only 20 years later WW2 began. On a coach orientation tour we'll view the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral, Montmartre and the Sacre Coeur Church, Arc de Triomphe, Champs Elysee,
the River Seine - the list is endless! Tonight we dine in typical Paris style to celebrate the end of our ANZAC themed tour of Europe. (BD)
Day 43 - Sat 20 June
Paris - At Leisure
As the tour draws to an end, today is free to take in more of the elegance and character of Paris, with myriad options available. More museums and cathedrals, or shopping on the Champs-Élysées? Perhaps Galleries
Lafayette, with a café petit noir, is more your choice? Whatever you choose, we will meet later in the day to reminisce and compare notes in a local Parisian bar or restaurant. (B)
Day 44 - Sun 21 June
Depart Paris
After 43 days of following the footsteps of many of our ANZAC forbears, as well as experiencing some different attractions and lesser known places of Europe, it is time to say farewell over breakfast and head our
respective ways. (B)
Note: The above itinerary is subject to change necessitated by any change in Community regulations as well as changes by Government and/or local operators and natural circumstances beyond our control.