Departure Graf: Amsterdam & the Keukenhof Gardens (incl. City Canal Cruise)

Just try to imagine this: 70 brightly hued acres bursting with seven million flowers in bloom, from daffodils to hyacinths to Amsterdam’s national export: the tulip. For nearly 60 years, Keukenhof Gardens (translating to “kitchen garden”) has been a playground-meets-showplace for Dutch florists.

Let us handle the details

  • Experienced Trip Leader
  • Breakfast Buffet
  • Private Transportation
  • Entrance Fee

Your trip includes

• Round-trip direct bus transportation
• Own parking lot in Graf for your exclusive use
• Breakfast buffet at a 4-star hotel
• Entrance ticket to the tulip park
• Amsterdam city canal cruise
• Explore Europe Trip Leader

Your trip highlights

• You’ll see flowers you never knew existed
• Amsterdam’s iconic canals and bridges
• Quaint windmills in Amsterdam’s outskirts
• Stroopwafels, frites and flavorful brews
• Vibrant locals and a bright art scene
• Plenty of time to explore the Dutch capital

Itinerary

Day 1 (Friday April 21, 2023)
Your trip begins with an overnight drive by bus to Keukenhof in Netherlands.

Day 2 (Saturday April 22, 2023)
After an included rich breakfast buffet, arrive at Keukenhof, home of the largest flower garden on Earth, where you’ll have time to explore the grounds. Each spring, more than 7 million flowers burst into bloom, including yellow daffodils, crocus, narcissi and hyacinths, as well as over 1,000 colorful and original varieties of tulips. Later, continue on to Amsterdam where we’ll be joining an Amsterdam canal cruise! Watch the city drift past as you sail by, and listen out for interesting insights into the city with a personal recorded commentary available in 15 languages. The afternoon and evening are yours – explore the canals some more, or head to Dam Square, one of the most important parts of the city. In the evening (at 10:00pm), travel back overnight Saturday to arrive Sunday morning in Grafenwoehr.

Day 3 (Sunday April 23, 2023)
Arrive in Grafenwoehr around 8:00 am

BOOK IN ADVANCE AND SAVE
Early Bird Offer: Book this trip by March 1 for only €159 and save €10!
Regular price after March 1 is €169 per adult

Covid-19 On-Trip Requirements & Safety Measures: Explore Europe requires our guests to be fully vaccinated, recovered or receive a negative PCR or antigen test within 48 hours of trip start*. Your Trip Leaders will check for proof on the first day of your trip.

*We would keep you informed of any changes that would apply to your trip, as we follow the COVID-19 requirements from each country/region.

Meeting point for the start of the trip
Your trip starts and finishes in Grafenwoehr, Germany.

Address: Dießfurter Str, 92655 Grafenwoehr (parking lot)
Instructions: if you are exiting McDonald’s parking lot in Grafenwoehr you will turn right on to B299 as if you are going towards Netzaberg. You will then take your very first right (as if you are going towards MegaPlay) and as soon as you cross the small bridge there is a driveway on the right side which you can enter into a parking lot. You should see several cars and the bus there. The parking lot is exclusively available for our passengers during the duration of the trip.

Graf Bus Departure Point

Here you can see what our travelers say about us!



See more reviews on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/exploreeuropetravel/reviews

IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING PASSPORTS: A valid tourist passport is required for this trip. Please make sure that you are traveling with the appropriate passport.

How’s the weather?

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Average Low Average High

Meeting point for the start of the trip
Your trip starts and finishes in Grafenwoehr, Germany.

Address: Dießfurter Str, 92655 Grafenwoehr (parking lot)
Instructions: if you are exiting McDonald’s parking lot in Grafenwoehr you will turn right on to B299 as if you are going towards Netzaberg. You will then take your very first right (as if you are going towards MegaPlay) and as soon as you cross the small bridge there is a driveway on the right side which you can enter into a parking lot. You should see several cars and the bus there. The parking lot is exclusively available for our passengers during the duration of the trip.

Graf Bus Departure Point

Passport & Visa
A tourist passport is required for all trips outside of Germany.

Important passport rules are as follows:
If you have a passport with a SOFA stamp on any page (a “No-Fee” passport), you are provided permission to reside in Germany, NOT to travel outside of Germany. You have to have a tourist passport in addition to the SOFA/”No-Fee” passport to travel outside of Germany. You cannot travel with a RED Official passport as that is used only for the purpose of a mission or deployment. If you have a passport with a detachable SOFA card clipped inside, it is acceptable to travel with as that was issued originally as a tourist passport. If you are not sure: a tourist passport will be BLUE and will be valid for 10 years for adults. It cannot contain a SOFA stamp on any page or it is not acceptable. A child’s tourist passport (under 15 years of age) is valid for 5 years, but will not have a SOFA stamp in it anywhere. All of this information has been verified to be correct with the Grafenwoehr Passport Office.

Health
There are no major health risks when traveling to Amsterdam. However, it is always advisable to check with your doctor or health-care provider for the latest updates.

Transportation / Walking on tour
Included transportation on your tour is by motor coach. In your free time, most locations are best accessed on foot. Amsterdam has a user friendly bus and tram system, if needed.

Cuisine
In the Netherlands, the universal staples of beef, chicken and fish are prepared in a simple fashion, and substantial soups and stews are also very popular. Snack food might be less familiar, where the emphasis is on fish. You might try maatje, raw green herrings served with onions. Also popular are pancakes, french fries, doughnuts and waffles served from street stands.

Clothing & Packing Tips
The Netherlands tends to be cool and often damp at certain times of year. Loose-fitting, layered clothing that can accommodate varying temperatures will probably be most comfortable. A sun hat, sunglasses and a sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers are recommended for sightseeing. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for any eventuality—a lightweight sports jacket and rainwear are advised. If you plan to visit an elegant restaurant or attend the opera or theater, you will probably feel more comfortable with something formal to wear. Also, remember that it is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).

Baggage Allowance
Each adult is entitled to one luggage and one personal item. Luggage should be able to be stored below the bus and the personal item should contain whatever you might need on the bus. Pillows and blankets do not count for the personal item. If you have additional items such as strollers, carseats, etc. please send us a message to make those arrangements.

Currency
The euro is the currency you will be using on your tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available in Amsterdam, although it is worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We strongly advise that you take debit/ bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks, as needed. You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees. We suggest that you inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.

Tipping
At the conclusion of your trip, it’s customary to offer your Trip Leader a gratuity. We recommend tipping €1-2 per person per day for your Trip Leader. Tips can only be paid in cash.

Here you can see what our travelers say about this trip!

Have you been on a trip with us? We appreciate each of you and would love to have your comments and experiences posted for the consideration of future and prospective travelers.

Name
Email
Review Title
Rating
Review Content

We recommend you get travel insurance to reimburse you for unforeseen trip cancellation. Please follow this link to get a quote through our partner SevenCorners.

Departure K-Town: Amsterdam & the Keukenhof Gardens (incl. City Canal Cruise)

Just try to imagine this: 70 brightly hued acres bursting with seven million flowers in bloom, from daffodils to hyacinths to Amsterdam’s national export: the tulip. For nearly 60 years, Keukenhof Gardens (translating to “kitchen garden”) has been a playground-meets-showplace for Dutch florists.

Let us handle the details

  • Experienced Trip Leader
  • Private Transportation
  • Entrance Fee

Your trip includes

• Round-trip direct bus transportation
• Parking lot in Kaiserslautern
• Entrance ticket to the tulip park
• Amsterdam city canal cruise
• Explore Europe Trip Leader

Your trip highlights

• You’ll see flowers you never knew existed
• Amsterdam’s iconic canals and bridges
• Quaint windmills in Amsterdam’s outskirts
• Stroopwafels, frites and flavorful brews
• Vibrant locals and a bright art scene
• Plenty of time to explore the Dutch capital

Itinerary

Day 1 (Saturday April 29th)
Your trip begins with a drive by bus to Keukenhof in Netherlands.

Arrive at Keukenhof, home of the largest flower garden on Earth, where you’ll have time to explore the grounds. Each spring, more than 7 million flowers burst into bloom, including yellow daffodils, crocus, narcissi and hyacinths, as well as over 1,000 colorful and original varieties of tulips. Later, continue on to Amsterdam where you will have free time for sightseeing or shopping before joining an included Amsterdam canal cruise! Watch the city drift past as you sail by, and listen out for interesting insights into the city with a personal recorded commentary available in 15 languages. In the evening (at 10:00pm), travel back overnight Saturday to arrive early Sunday morning in Kaiserslautern.

Day 2 (Sunday April 30th)
Arrive in Kaiserslautern around 5:00 am

BOOK IN ADVANCE AND SAVE
Early Bird: Book this trip by March 1 for only €159 and save €10!
Regular price after March 1 is €169 per adult

Meeting point for the start of the trip
Your trip starts and finishes in Kaiserslautern, Germany.

Address: Daennerplatz, 67657 Kaiserslautern (free to park for our passengers)

K-Town Bus Departure Point

Here you can see what our travelers say about us!

See more reviews on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/exploreeuropetravel/reviews

IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING PASSPORTS: A valid tourist passport is required for this trip. Please make sure that you are traveling with the appropriate passport.

How’s the weather?

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Average Low Average High

Meeting point for the start of the trip
Your trip starts and finishes in Kaiserslautern, Germany.
Address: Daennerplatz, 67657 Kaiserslautern (free to park for our passengers)

K-Town Bus Departure Point

Passport and Visa Requirements
A tourist passport is required for all trips outside of Germany.

Important passport rules are as follows:
If you have a passport with a SOFA stamp on any page (a “No-Fee” passport), you are provided permission to reside in Germany, NOT to travel outside of Germany. You have to have a tourist passport in addition to the SOFA/”No-Fee” passport to travel outside of Germany. You cannot travel with a RED Official passport as that is used only for the purpose of a mission or deployment. If you have a passport with a detachable SOFA card clipped inside, it is acceptable to travel with as that was issued originally as a tourist passport. If you are not sure: a tourist passport will be BLUE and will be valid for 10 years for adults. It cannot contain a SOFA stamp on any page or it is not acceptable. A child’s tourist passport (under 15 years of age) is valid for 5 years, but will not have a SOFA stamp in it anywhere. All of this information has been verified to be correct with the Grafenwoehr Passport Office.

Health
There are no major health risks when traveling to Amsterdam. However, it is always advisable to check with your doctor or health-care provider for the latest updates.

Transportation / Walking on tour
Included transportation on your tour is by motor coach. In your free time, most locations are best accessed on foot. Amsterdam has a user friendly bus and tram system, if needed.

Cuisine
In the Netherlands, the universal staples of beef, chicken and fish are prepared in a simple fashion, and substantial soups and stews are also very popular. Snack food might be less familiar, where the emphasis is on fish. You might try maatje, raw green herrings served with onions. Also popular are pancakes, french fries, doughnuts and waffles served from street stands.

Clothing & Packing Tips
The Netherlands tends to be cool and often damp at certain times of year. Loose-fitting, layered clothing that can accommodate varying temperatures will probably be most comfortable. A sun hat, sunglasses and a sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers are recommended for sightseeing. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for any eventuality—a lightweight sports jacket and rainwear are advised. If you plan to visit an elegant restaurant or attend the opera or theater, you will probably feel more comfortable with something formal to wear. Also, remember that it is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).

Baggage Allowance
Each adult is entitled to one luggage and one personal item. Luggage should be able to be stored below the bus and the personal item should contain whatever you might need on the bus. Pillows and blankets do not count for the personal item. If you have additional items such as strollers, carseats, etc. please send us a message to make those arrangements.

Currency
The euro is the currency you will be using on your tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available in Amsterdam, although it is worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We strongly advise that you take debit/ bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks, as needed. You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees. We suggest that you inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.

Tipping
At the conclusion of your trip, it’s customary to offer your Trip Leader a gratuity. We recommend tipping €1-2 per person per day for your Trip Leader. Tips can only be paid in cash.

Here you can see what our travelers say about this trip!

Have you been on a trip with us? We appreciate each of you and would love to have your comments and experiences posted for the consideration of future and prospective travelers.

Name
Email
Review Title
Rating
Review Content

We recommend you get travel insurance to reimburse you for unforeseen trip cancellation. Please follow this link to get a quote through our partner SevenCorners.

Departure Graf: Lake Garda & Verona

Explore the beauty of the Italian Lake Garda & romantic Verona. Sip a tasty cappuccino on Garda’s lakeside promenade watching the glimmering shore, explore the medieval 14th-century castle in Sirmione, and visit Verona, home of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet. 

Let us handle the details

  • Private Bus Transportation
  • Experienced Trip Leader
  • Breakfast Buffet
  • Handpicked Hotel
  • Local Tour Guides

Your trip includes

• Round-trip direct bus transportation
• Own parking lot in Graf for your exclusive use
• 1 night of hotel accommodation in Verona, Italy
• 2 Breakfast buffet
• Guided tours in Riva del Garda, Malcesine, Sirmione & Verona with licensed local guides
• Explore Europe Trip Leader
• Hotel city tax
• Guaranteed departure

Your trip highlights

• You’ll explore three picturesque lakeside towns lining Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy
• You’ll see the world famous house of Julia
• Wine, pasta, pizza—dining is an art form here

Itinerary

Day 1 (Friday May 5, 2023)
Depart at 10:30 pm from Grafenwoehr and travel along the highway by bus to Riva del Garda in Italy.

Day 2 (Saturday May 6, 2023)
Welcome to Italy! In the morning we arrive in Riva del Garda, a town beautifully surrounded by lofty peaks, situated at the more scenic north end of the lake. After an included breakfast buffet at a restaurant with a panoramic view of Lake Garda, enjoy a full day guided tour of Riva del Garda, Malcesine and the delightful resort of Sirmione – a town at the southern end of the lake. In Sirmione we will enjoy an optional 30-minute speed boat trip around the peninsula (19€ per person), taking in the gorgeous panoramic views of the region. In the late afternoon, set off to beautiful Verona (only an hour away from Sirmione) and get settled in your hotel. Enjoy a free evening in Verona.

Day 3 (Sunday May 7, 2023)
After an included breakfast buffet, join your local guide on a tour of the “city of love.” Discover the sites that served as the backdrop for Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, including Casa di Giulietta, Juliet’s house and storied balcony. Stroll down Via Mazzini, admiring the marble along the street as you go and visit Verona’s UNESCO-recognized historic district to see the Verona Arena, Piazza della Erbe, and Lamberti’s Tower. Later, spend the lunch time at your leisure before setting off to Grafenwoehr in the early afternoon.

Estimated time of return in Grafenwoehr: 11pm

BOOK IN ADVANCE AND SAVE
Early Bird: Book this trip by March 1 for only €249 and save €50!
Regular price after March 1 is €299 per adult

*Prices are per person, based on two adults sharing. Single room €45 extra.

Meeting point for the start of the trip
Your trip starts and finishes in Grafenwoehr, Germany.

Address: Dießfurter Str, 92655 Grafenwoehr (parking lot)
Instructions: if you are exiting McDonald’s parking lot in Grafenwoehr you will turn right on to B299 as if you are going towards Netzaberg. You will then take your very first right (as if you are going towards MegaPlay) and as soon as you cross the small bridge there is a driveway on the right side which you can enter into a parking lot. You should see several cars and the bus there. The parking lot is exclusively available for our passengers during the duration of the trip.

Here you can see what our travelers say about us!

See more reviews on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/exploreeuropetravel/reviews

IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING PASSPORTS: A valid tourist passport is required for this trip. Please make sure that you are traveling with the appropriate passport.

How´s the weather?

Lake Garda, Italy

Average Low Average High

Verona, Italy

Average Low Average High

Meeting point for the start of the trip
Your trip starts and finishes in Grafenwoehr, Germany.

Address: Dießfurter Str, 92655 Grafenwoehr (parking lot)
Instructions: if you are exiting McDonald’s parking lot in Grafenwoehr you will turn right on to B299 as if you are going towards Netzaberg. You will then take your very first right (as if you are going towards MegaPlay) and as soon as you cross the small bridge there is a driveway on the right side which you can enter into a parking lot. You should see several cars and the bus there. The parking lot is exclusively available for our passengers during the duration of the trip.

Passport and Visa Requirements
Explore Europe enforces the requirement to possess a tourist passport for all trips outside of Germany. Should you come to the departure point and present the incorrect passport, you will be turned away with no refund, per our cancellation policy.

Important passport rules are as follows:
If you have a passport with a SOFA stamp on any page (a “No-Fee” passport), you are provided permission to reside in Germany, NOT to travel outside of Germany. You have to have a tourist passport in addition to the SOFA/”No-Fee” passport to travel outside of Germany. You cannot travel with a RED Official passport as that is used only for the purpose of a mission or deployment. If you have a passport with a detachable SOFA card clipped inside, it is acceptable to travel with as that was issued originally as a tourist passport. If you are not sure: a tourist passport will be BLUE and will be valid for 10 years for adults. It cannot contain a SOFA stamp on any page or it is not acceptable. A child’s tourist passport (under 15 years of age) is valid for 5 years, but will not have a SOFA stamp in it anywhere. All of this information has been verified to be correct with the Grafenwoehr Passport Office.

Baggage Allowance
Each adult is entitled to one luggage and one personal item. Luggage should be able to be stored below the bus and the personal item should contain whatever you might need on the bus. Pillows and blankets do not count for the personal item. If you have additional items such as strollers, carseats, etc. please send us a message to make those arrangements.

Clothing & Packing Tips
To ensure you’re comfortable while out exploring, we recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered. For sightseeing, we suggest bringing a sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers, as well as a lightweight sports jacket or rainwear. If you’re planning a visit to a high-end restaurant or performance, you may also want to bring dressier attire. Also, please remember that it’s preferable to avoid showing bare legs or shoulders during visits to churches or other religious sites (entrance may be denied on this basis).

Health
There are no major health risks associated with traveling to Italy. Be sure to check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and travel requirements.

Cuisine
In Italy, the cuisine is often slightly varied by region, and many cities and towns have their own specialties. Northern Italy is known for flavorful meats and pastries. For more authentic meals, try local trattorias, small restaurants set away from the main piazzas. A typical Italian meal includes wines and the occasional beer, followed by a few sips of after-dinner drinks like grappa or limoncello.

Transportation
Included transportation is by private bus.

Electricity
Italy operates on the European standard of 220 volts.

Currency
The euro is the currency you’ll use on tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available in your destination countries, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We advise that you take a combination of bank/ATM cards and credit cards, as needed. We suggest that you inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.

Tipping
At the conclusion of your trip, it’s customary to offer your Trip Leader a gratuity. We recommend tipping €1-2 per person per day for your Trip Leader. Tips can only be paid in cash.

Here you can see what our travelers say about this trip!

Have you been on a trip with us? We appreciate each of you and would love to have your comments and experiences posted for the consideration of future and prospective travelers.

Name
Email
Review Title
Rating
Review Content

We recommend you get travel insurance to reimburse you for unforeseen trip cancellation. Please follow this link to get a quote through Travel Insured.

Departure K-Town: Mother’s Day in Lake Garda and Verona

Explore the beauty of the Italian Lake Garda & romantic Verona on a special Mother’s Day trip! Sip a tasty cappuccino on Garda’s lakeside promenade watching the glimmering shore, explore the medieval 14th-century castle in Sirmione, and visit Verona, home of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet. 

Let us handle the details

  • Private Bus Transportation
  • Experienced Trip Leader
  • Breakfast Buffet
  • Handpicked Hotel
  • Local Tour Guides

Your trip includes

• Round-trip direct bus transportation
• 1 night of hotel accommodation in Verona, Italy
• 2 Breakfast buffet
• Guided tours in Riva del Garda, Malcesine, Sirmione & Verona with licensed local guides
• Scenic boat trip around the Sirmione peninsula
• Explore Europe Trip Leader
• Hotel city tax

Your trip highlights

• You’ll explore three picturesque lakeside towns lining Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy
• You’ll see the world famous house of Julia
• Wine, pasta, pizza—dining is an art form here

Itinerary

Day 1 (Friday May 12, 2023)
Depart at 9:00 pm from Kaiserslautern and travel along the highway by bus to Riva del Garda in Italy.

Day 2 (Saturday May 13, 2023)
Welcome to Italy! In the morning we arrive in Riva del Garda, a town beautifully surrounded by lofty peaks, situated at the more scenic north end of the lake. After an included breakfast buffet at a restaurant with a panoramic view of Lake Garda, enjoy a full day guided tour of Riva del Garda, Malcesine and the delightful resort of Sirmione – a town at the southern end of the lake. In Sirmione we will enjoy a 30 minute speed boat trip around the peninsula, taking in the gorgeous panoramic views of the region. In the late afternoon, set off to beautiful Verona (only an hour away from Sirmione) and get settled in your hotel. Enjoy a free evening in Verona.

Day 3 (Sunday May 14, 2023)
Happy Mother’s Day! After an included breakfast buffet, join your local guide on a tour of the “city of love.” Discover the sites that served as the backdrop for Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, including Casa di Giulietta, Juliet’s house and storied balcony. Stroll down Via Mazzini, admiring the marble along the street as you go and visit Verona’s UNESCO-recognized historic district to see the Verona Arena, Piazza della Erbe, and Lamberti’s Tower. Later,  set off to Kaiserslautern. Estimated time of return in Kaiserslautern: 11 pm.

BOOK IN ADVANCE AND SAVE
Early Bird: Book this trip by March 15 for only €249 and save €50!
Regular price after March 15 is €299 per adult

Prices are per person, based on two adults sharing. Single room €45 extra.

Covid-19 On-Trip Requirements & Safety Measures: Explore Europe requires our guests to be fully vaccinated, recovered or receive a negative PCR or antigen test within 48 hours of trip start*. Your Trip Leaders will check for proof on the first day of your trip.

*We would keep you informed of any changes that would apply to your trip, as we follow the COVID-19 requirements from each country/region.

Meeting point for the start of the trip
Your trip starts and finishes in Kaiserslautern, Germany.

Address: Daennerplatz, 67657 Kaiserslautern (free to park for our passengers)

K-Town Bus Departure Point

Here you can see what our travelers say about us!



See more reviews on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/exploreeuropetravel/reviews

IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING PASSPORTS: A valid tourist passport is required for this trip. Please make sure that you are traveling with the appropriate passport.

How´s the weather?

Lake Garda, Italy

Average Low Average High

Verona, Italy

Average Low Average High

Meeting point for the start of the trip
Your trip starts and finishes in Kaiserslautern, Germany.

Address: Daennerplatz, 67657 Kaiserslautern (free to park for our passengers)

K-Town Bus Departure Point

Passport and Visa Requirements
Explore Europe enforces the requirement to possess a tourist passport for all trips outside of Germany. Should you come to the departure point and present the incorrect passport, you will be turned away with no refund, per our cancellation policy.

Important passport rules are as follows:
If you have a passport with a SOFA stamp on any page (a “No-Fee” passport), you are provided permission to reside in Germany, NOT to travel outside of Germany. You have to have a tourist passport in addition to the SOFA/”No-Fee” passport to travel outside of Germany. You cannot travel with a RED Official passport as that is used only for the purpose of a mission or deployment. If you have a passport with a detachable SOFA card clipped inside, it is acceptable to travel with as that was issued originally as a tourist passport. If you are not sure: a tourist passport will be BLUE and will be valid for 10 years for adults. It cannot contain a SOFA stamp on any page or it is not acceptable. A child’s tourist passport (under 15 years of age) is valid for 5 years, but will not have a SOFA stamp in it anywhere. All of this information has been verified to be correct with the Grafenwoehr Passport Office.

Baggage Allowance
Each adult is entitled to one luggage and one personal item. Luggage should be able to be stored below the bus and the personal item should contain whatever you might need on the bus. Pillows and blankets do not count for the personal item. If you have additional items such as strollers, carseats, etc. please send us a message to make those arrangements.

Clothing & Packing Tips
To ensure you’re comfortable while out exploring, we recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered. For sightseeing, we suggest bringing a sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers, as well as a lightweight sports jacket or rainwear. If you’re planning a visit to a high-end restaurant or performance, you may also want to bring dressier attire. Also, please remember that it’s preferable to avoid showing bare legs or shoulders during visits to churches or other religious sites (entrance may be denied on this basis).

Health
There are no major health risks associated with traveling to Italy. Be sure to check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and travel requirements.

Cuisine
In Italy, the cuisine is often slightly varied by region, and many cities and towns have their own specialties. Northern Italy is known for flavorful meats and pastries. For more authentic meals, try local trattorias, small restaurants set away from the main piazzas. A typical Italian meal includes wines and the occasional beer, followed by a few sips of after-dinner drinks like grappa or limoncello.

Transportation
Included transportation is by private bus.

Electricity
Italy operates on the European standard of 220 volts.

Currency
The euro is the currency you’ll use on tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available in your destination countries, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We advise that you take a combination of bank/ATM cards and credit cards, as needed. We suggest that you inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.

Tipping
At the conclusion of your trip, it’s customary to offer your Trip Leader a gratuity. We recommend tipping €1-2 per person per day for your Trip Leader. Tips can only be paid in cash.

Here you can see what our travelers say about this trip!

Have you been on a trip with us? We appreciate each of you and would love to have your comments and experiences posted for the consideration of future and prospective travelers.

Name
Email
Review Title
Rating
Review Content

We recommend you get travel insurance to reimburse you for unforeseen trip cancellation. Please follow this link to get a quote through our partner SevenCorners.

NEW Departure Graf: Normandy Coast, Mont Saint-Michel & Rouen (Memorial Day Weekend)

Remember, reflect, and discover the history of World War II on this one-of-a-kind Memorial Day trip. As you visit memorials, trenches, and museums along the coast of Normandy, you’ll learn about the important role American forces played in the success of D-Day. Explore the locations that were the backdrops for pivotal battles and take time to honor the sacrifices made by the Allied soldiers.

Let us handle the details

  • Private Transportation
  • Experienced Trip Leader
  • Handpicked Hotels
  • Breakfast Buffet
  • Guided Tours
  • Entrance Fee

Your trip includes

• Round-trip direct bus transportation
• 2 nights’ in handpicked 4-star hotels in Normandy Coast
• Breakfast buffet
Mont Saint Michel entrance and audio guided tour
• Full day guided tour of D-Day beaches, Normandy
• Explore Europe Trip Leader
• Hotel city taxes

Your trip highlights

• The D-Day Beaches of Normandy
• American Cemetery in Colleville
• Omaha Beach
• The iconic Mont Saint-Michel
• Rouen Cathedral
• Cheese & Calvados, the region’s distinctive apple brandy

Itinerary

Day 1 (Thursday, May 25)
Depart at 6:30pm from Grafenwoehr and travel along the highway by bus to France.

Day 2 (Friday, May 26)
Welcome to Normandy! This morning explore the striking 8th-century island of Mont Saint-Michel on an audio guided sightseeing tour:

  • See how the UNESCO-recognized site, perched high on a granite rock, is surrounded by water at high tide and quicksand at low tide
  • Pass by medieval houses and then enter the Benedictine Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel

After some free time for lunch, continue the journey toward the Coast to check into the 4-star hotel in Bayeux and spend the remaining afternoon and evening as you wish. Be sure to visit the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy, which offers a great insight into WWII and the prominent role this region played during the D-Day Landings!

Day 3 (Saturday, May 27)
Dive into World War II history with a local tour guide during a visit to Normandy, where the Allied troops landed in June, 1944.

  • Walk along Omaha Beach, the landing site of American troops on D-Day
  • Visit Pointe du Hoc to view the granite monument that honors the American 2nd Ranger Battalion
  • Stop in the seaside town of Arromanches, home to one of the main Allied landing harbors, and enjoy free time to explore
  • Travel to the American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer

Later, travel through historic cities and pristine port towns on your way to Rouen to get settled in your 4-star hotel, before spending the evening at leisure.

Day 4 (Sunday, May 28)
Today you are free to do as you please in Rouen. Sample delicious French breads or cakes in a patisserie, shop in the beautifully restored medieval quarter or walk through the Old Market Square. Or, you might consider joining our optional activity:

Guided Optional Excursion – Rouen Walking Tour & Cheese and Cider Tasting 49€ pp
A guided tour introduces you to the architecture, scenery, and history of Rouen, home to a large 16th-century clock and the Gothic, two-towered Rouen Cathedral. After the tour, sample cheeses, including Camembert, Pont-l’Évêque, and Livarot, paired with cider and Calvados, the region’s distinctive apple brandy.

Continue on to Grafenwoehr in the evening after dinner (not included) at 7:00pm.

Day 5 (Monday, May 29)
Return in Grafenwoehr around 10:00am.

BOOK IN ADVANCE AND SAVE
Early Bird: Book this trip by April 1 for only €399 and save €60!
Regular price after April 1 is €459 per adult

Prices are per person, based on two adults sharing. Single room €90 extra.

Here you can see what our travelers say about us: www.facebook.com/exploreeuropetravel/reviews

IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING PASSPORTS: A valid tourist passport is required for this trip. Please make sure that you are traveling with the appropriate passport.

How´s the weather?

Bayeux, France

Average Low Average High

Meeting point for the start of the trip
Your trip starts and finishes in Grafenwoehr, Germany.

Address: Dießfurter Str, 92655 Grafenwoehr (parking lot)
Instructions: if you are exiting McDonald’s parking lot in Grafenwoehr you will turn right on to B299 as if you are going towards Netzaberg. You will then take your very first right (as if you are going towards MegaPlay) and as soon as you cross the small bridge there is a driveway on the right side which you can enter into a parking lot. You should see several cars and the bus there. The parking lot is available during the duration of the trip for our passenger.

Graf Bus Departure Point

Passport and Visa Requirements
A tourist passport is required for all trips outside of Germany.

Important passport rules are as follows:
If you have a passport with a SOFA stamp on any page (a “No-Fee” passport), you are provided permission to reside in Germany, NOT to travel outside of Germany. You have to have a tourist passport in addition to the SOFA/”No-Fee” passport to travel outside of Germany. You cannot travel with a RED Official passport as that is used only for the purpose of a mission or deployment. If you have a passport with a detachable SOFA card clipped inside, it is acceptable to travel with as that was issued originally as a tourist passport. If you are not sure: a tourist passport will be BLUE and will be valid for 10 years for adults. It cannot contain a SOFA stamp on any page or it is not acceptable. A child’s tourist passport (under 15 years of age) is valid for 5 years, but will not have a SOFA stamp in it anywhere. All of this information has been verified to be correct with the Grafenwoehr Passport Office.

Baggage Allowance
Each adult is entitled to one luggage and one personal item. Luggage should be able to be stored below the bus and the personal item should contain whatever you might need on the bus. Pillows and blankets do not count for the personal item. If you have additional items such as strollers, carseats, etc. please send us a message to make those arrangements.

Clothing and Packing Tips
Light clothing that provides comfort when exploring the sights is essential for your trip. If you plan to visit an especially elegant restaurant or attend the opera or theater, you will probably feel more comfortable in something more formal. Also, remember that it is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (entrance may be denied on this basis).

Health
There are no major health risks when traveling to France. It is always advisable to check with your doctor or health-care provider for the latest updates.

Cuisine
For the most casual snack or picnic, stop at a small grocery store for cheeses, patés, cured meats, freshbaked bread and fruit. Sidewalk vendors are known for their steaming crepes, filled with cheese, ham, fruit or chocolate. Mouthwatering pastries and hot café au lait beckon from the cafés. On the restaurant scene, the prix fixe option is popular, offering a three- or four-course set menu for a good price.

Electricity
France operates on the European standard 220 volts.

Currency
The Euro is the currency you will be using on your tour. We advise that you take a combination of bank/ATM cards, credit cards and traveler’s checks, which can be exchanged for cash at local banks, as needed. We suggest informing your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so they don’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges. Please note: With the conversion to the Euro, it has been increasingly difficult to exchange traveler’s checks outside Europe’s major cities—both at banks and shops—and they often attract higher fees.

Tipping
At the conclusion of your trip, it’s customary to offer your Trip Leader a gratuity. We recommend tipping €1-2 per person per day for your Trip Leader. Tips can only be paid in cash.

Travel Insurance
We recommend you get travel insurance to reimburse you for unforeseen trip cancellation. Please follow this link to get a quote through SevenCorners.

Here you can see what our travelers say about this trip!

Have you been on a trip with us? We appreciate each of you and would love to have your comments and experiences posted for the consideration of future and prospective travelers.

Name
Email
Review Title
Rating
Review Content

We recommend you get travel insurance to reimburse you for unforeseen trip cancellation. Please follow this link to get a quote through our partner SevenCorners.