THE GRAND TOUR: A Modern Hop Across Europe’s Historic Hubs
FLYBRANIFF.COM
Travel Blog
Blog #7
February 20, 2026
Europe
The Grand Tour: A Modern Hop Across Europe's Historic Hubs
There’s a unique, almost timeless romance to a grand European tour, a journey that stitches together the old-world sophistication of its major cities. For decades, the path connecting London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Brussels has been a vital artery for business and culture, a route perhaps best symbolized by ambitious air travel campaigns that promised a seamless passage for travelers. Today, this circuit remains one of the continent’s most rewarding adventures, one that effortlessly transitions from the pomp of royalty to the tranquility of canals.
Braniff International pioneered service to Europe from Dallas/Ft. Worth with Boeing 747s. ©
Our journey begins in London, a city that eases the transatlantic visitor into Europe without the hurdle of a language barrier. Here, history is not confined to museums but lives on in the daily rituals, from the chime of Big Ben—a magnificent sight alongside the London Eye—to the ancient walls of the Tower of London. You can spend days exploring the world-class collections at the British Museum, strolling through Kensington Gardens, or enjoying the lively atmosphere of Borough Market. London offers a familiar yet endlessly fascinating mix of iconic landmarks and trendy, ever-evolving neighborhoods.
A quick trip via the Eurostar transports you beneath the Channel and into the utterly chic landscape of Paris, a city that demands a long, admiring gaze. The French capital is a masterpiece of art and architecture, where every street corner seems to beckon you to stop, take a seat at a sidewalk café, and simply watch the world drift by. You must dedicate time to the iconic sights: the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and the celebrated Louvre Museum. For a true taste of Parisian charm, wander the historic streets of Le Marais or Montmartre, or take a scenic boat ride down the Seine, perhaps with a classic French pastry in hand.
The Eiffel Tower in Paris is easy as a visit to FlyBraniff.com !
From the artistic flair of France, our route takes us to Brussels, a compact and dazzling capital that often serves as the perfect break in a fast-paced itinerary. While historically a stopover point for business missions to Europe, today it is a destination in its own right. The sheer opulence of the Grand Place, with its magnificent guildhalls, is a feast for the eyes, and a mandatory pilgrimage to the Manneken Pis is part of the experience. But the real cultural immersion here comes from indulging: Belgian chocolate and waffles are the fuel for a day spent exploring the city’s lace shops and comic strip center.
Next, the itinerary leads to Amsterdam, a city defined by its peaceful canals, narrow, colorful homes, and a culture centered around cycling. Getting around like a local—by bike—is an essential part of the experience, offering a unique perspective on the city’s structure. You can spend hours touring the world-famous Rijksmuseum or the Anne Frank House, or simply take a leisurely canal cruise to appreciate the city’s unique, floating beauty. The vibrant Floating Flower Market and the charming Nine Streets district offer a perfect balance of shopping and sightseeing.
Our final stop is Frankfurt, a major German gateway that historically served as a critical hub for European business and travel. Known as the financial heart of Germany, it is a city of stunning architectural contrasts, where soaring modern skyscrapers stand shoulder-to-shoulder with beautifully reconstructed half-timbered houses in the old town, the Römerberg. It’s a place that perfectly captures the spirit of modern Europe: dynamic, forward-looking, but deeply connected to its past. Frankfurt completes the circuit, representing the commercial backbone that links these varied European experiences.
This is more than just a trip; it is a tapestry woven from the threads of history, commerce, and unparalleled cultural richness. Whether you are following in the footsteps of previous transcontinental missions or setting out to chart your own course for the first time, this grand tour of five major hubs offers a truly comprehensive taste of Europe—a journey that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Your first step to the vacation of a lifetime, is FlyBraniff.com
Braniff Gets You There with Flying Colors!
Braniff Airways, Incorporated, Copyright 1926 2026
Join us online where we enjoy more than 10 million impressions weekly:
www.flybraniff.com www.braniffinternational.com www.braniffboutique.com www.facebook.com/BraniffInternational
Twitter: @braniffintl
Instagram: @braniffairwaysinc
Youtube: Braniff Airways Foundation
TikTok: @braniff.international
The elegant Cross Over Bag is available from BraniffBoutique.com.
Braniff operated nonstop Boeing 747 service from both Dallas/Ft. Worth and Boston to Europe beginning in 1978 and 1979.