European Affair & Chelsea Flower Show

Arriving into London, Britain puts its best foot forward with the internationally renowned Chelsea Flower Show. Be on the lookout for the royal, the rich and the famous at the world’s premier garden show. Hop the English Channel and experience the finer things in life as you cruise through the canals of medieval Bruges and witness the world’s largest flower auction in Amsterdam. Live it up at the Loire Valley Chateaux—where the riverside castles at Chenonceau and Chambord flash back to the heyday of the French royal family. The regality continues with a tour of King Louis XIV’s palace of Versailles before the vacation draws to a close at Monet's Garden and water-lily pond.

Your Holiday Package Includes:

• $1,800 flight credit per person
• 9 night European Affair and Chelsea Flower Show guided tour with Insight Vacations, London to Paris

Includes:

• Stylish hand-picked accommodation
• Authentic dining –9 breakfasts, 4 dinners with wine
• Top-rated highlights & unique experiences
• Chelsea Flower Show
• Aalsmeer Flower Auction
• Claude Monet House
• Château de Versailles
• Airport transfers

Pricing is based on per person twin share for travel 22 – 31 May 2026

Solo traveller available. Please speak to one of our travel consultants for more details

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive London

On arrival, you are transferred to your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore London. This evening join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a welcome drink and trip briefing before enjoying a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Chelsea Flower Show

Enjoy a full day to experience the famous Chelsea Flower Show – the ‘mecca’ of all garden shows. A transfer in the morning takes you to the famous show! The Chelsea Flower Show will bring together the very best show gardens, flowers, and gardening from around the world. You will see magnificent floral displays, model gardens, English garden tools and a host of garden structures and artefacts. This afternoon a transfer back to your hotel is provided.

Day 3: London to Amsterdam

Departing London, we travel through the lush green Kent countryside to board our ferry in Dover, watching the impressive White Cliffs disappear into the distance as we cross to France. Our journey today ends in the Dutch capital of Amsterdam.

Day 4: Monnickendam

Journey through the polder landscape to visit Monnickendam. Along the way, visit a rustic cheese workshop to learn the secrets of the dairy industry and witness the ancient art of clog making. The best way to see this remarkable city is from the water as you cruise through the canal district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the elegant merchant houses from the 16th and 17th centuries, their facades reflect when trade flourished during Amsterdam's Golden Age. Relax as you pass stunning gables, beautiful churches and the iconic Magere Brug, better known as the Skinny Bridge, with a delicious meal onboard.

Day 5: Aalsmeer and Bruges

Experience the excitement at the very epicentre of the international flower trade! Each day, over 19 million flowers are sold at 'Bloemenveiling Aalsmeer', the world's largest flower auction. Witness all the action from a specially designed viewing gallery as traders bid against the clock for a mind-blowing assortment of blooms. A unique experience you'll remember forever!

Meet your Local Expert from Bruges for a stroll along cobbled streets, lined with high-gabled houses from the 16th century. Visit the Market Square dominated by the 83-meter medieval bell tower, The Belfry of Bruges. Explore Burg Square with its ornate Gothic town hall and glorious frescoes on the walls of the Holy Blood Chapel, followed by a relaxing canal cruise before finishing the day off at the local restaurant.

Day 6: Bruges at Leisure

With your free day perhaps explore magical Bruges by Horse and Carriage? Don’t forget to try some of the tempting chocolates or beers for which Belgium is renowned.

Day 7: Monets Giverny

Visit the house and famous gardens of the Impressionist painter Claude Monet. His passion was his garden, which is kept alive in the same tradition and is home to famous ponds with water lilies.  You have time to explore the gardens before departing for Paris, the City of Light.

Day 8: Loire Valley Excursion

The stunning Loire Valley is world-famous for its magnificent Chateaux, as well as beautiful landscapes and delicious wine. Visit two of the most famous Chateaux and be transported back in time as you explore them and their gardens. Chenonceau Castle, known as the 'Ladies' Chateau' it perfectly embodies the elegance of 16th century design in the Loire Valley. Chateau de Chambord, an awe-inspiring Renaissance chateau inspired by Leonardo de Vinci. As evening decends, the City of Light lives up to its name as the monuments, buildings are lit up in all their glory. For that special touch of excitement and glamour don’t miss the chance to join an Optional Experience to one of the world-famous cabaret shows.

Day 9: Versailles and Paris

Visit the Château de Versailles, one of the most beautiful achievements of 18th-century French art. This former royal residence is world-renowned for its architecture, grandeur, and extravagant gardens.

With a Local Expert, explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris. See famous landmarks including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the facades of the Louvre. Stroll the banks of the River Seine, admire romantic bridges, and enjoy a drive along the Champs Elysée’s to the Arc de Triomphe.

You are in for a memorable evening starting with a delicious Celebration Dinner serving delicious French cuisine and wine. Perhaps this evening experience a Seine Cruise and Illuminations tour?

Day 10: Farewell Paris

Your memorable journey comes to an end as you bid your Travel Director farewell. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08.00 and 11.00.

Prices listed are per person in NZD, based on twin occupancy, including all discounts unless otherwise stated. The offer is subject to availability at time of booking and shown on the lowest category available at the time.  Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice. Prices/Offers are correct as at 13-08-2025 and can be withdrawn without notice.   Cabin categories include prepaid government fees and port taxes unless otherwise stated.  Hotels may charge resort fees not included in this package, payable direct upon check in. Visas are not included.  Payments made by credit card will incur a surcharge.