Winter Europe & Eastern Mediterranean

Awaken and indulge your senses as Insight Vacations shows you the magic of Europe in winter. Visit traditional Christmas Markets; see the wonders of Egypt, Morocco and Italy, and much more.

Winter is an ideal time to visit Europe as the climate is often surprisingly mild. Major sights and attractions are uncrowded and unhurried and the early evenings lend themselves to the twinkling coloured lights that celebrate Christmas and the New Year. Best of all prices are substantially lower than in peak summer season!

CHRISTMAS MARKETS

The festive season is a very special time in Europe and each year the traditional Christmas markets draw millions of visitors. Relive the magic of Christmas cheer and goodwill, perhaps recalling fond memories of childhood days. Joyeux Noel!

In Germanic cities, towns and villages you will find all kinds of Christmas merchandise and gifts and medieval town squares glistening with snow and twinkling Christmas lights.

Smell the air filled with aromas of roasting chestnuts, exotic warm spices of mulled wine, freshly baked mince pies and warm continental bread. Savour hot espresso coffee as you welcome the day. The crisp fresh air of winter makes every smell a fond memory to treasure forever.

Escape the festive madness at home and enjoy shopping for traditional gifts at the markets of Europe, at the same time giving you the ultimate Christmas gift - an Insight Winter Vacation.

LONDON & PARIS

Ideal for the independent travellers, with included sightseeing and plenty of time to explore alone. See the bright lights and historic sights of London then experience the fast route to France aboard the high speed Eurostar to the romantic city of Paris .

ITALY

Winter in Italy is often surprisingly mild, particularly around March and April, and as the summer heat disappears, so do the summer crowds. It's the perfect time of year to slow down and absorb the unique atmosphere and seasonal traditions.

Our Italian itineraries include a great introduction to Italy, entitled Amazing Italy, offering two nights each in Rome, Florence & Venice . Gaze in awe at Michelangelo's 'David' in the Academy Gallery.

Our Italian Splendours tour focuses on the fascinating history, art and architecture from Roman times through to the golden age of the 15 th and 16 th centuries. This perfectly paced itinerary features two night stays in Rome, Sorrento, Florence & Milan .

SPAIN, PORTUGAL & MOROCCO

Explore the Iberian countryside while enjoying the mild winter climate. Our tours in Spain & Portugal include in-depth sightseeing tours in Toledo, Granada, Seville, Lisbon and  Madrid . Our popular Amazing Morocco tour will appeal to those with a sense of adventure as you explore the imperial cities of Casablanca, Fez and Marrakesh contrast with the dramatic gorges of the High Atlas Mountains and the solitude of the Saharan desert that lies beyond.

VIENNA, PRAGUE & BUDAPEST

Experience the highlights of Eastern Europe with three different cities, each with its own story to tell. See medieval town squares glistening in snow and Christmas lights. One of the treasures to discover is enchanting Cesky Krumlov, where one could think they had just stepped back into a scene straight out of a Christmas card.

EGYPT

For thousands of years travellers have been mesmerized by the unforgettable historical treasures of Egypt and it is no different today. Relax as you glide down the Nile, discover ancient monuments such as the Sphinx and Abu Simbel, stay at historic hotels such as the Conrad and see the magnificent Pyramids come to life at the magical Sound & Light Show - a truly memorable experience! If you would like to rub shoulders with Julius Caesar, Napoleon or Agatha Christie, why not select one of Insight's stylish Elegance itineraries. These tours not only showcase the exotic sites in style, but you will cruise the Nile on the luxurious MS Tosca, regarded as the new benchmark in luxury Nile cruising! Click here for details.

GREECE