Tour Description

This epic 23 day trail through Europe balances all the sightseeing icons with unexpected marvels and underrated destinations. From walking the cobbled streets of Michelangelo's Florence and seeing Paris lit up at night, to a sobering WW2 education in Poland and bunking down amid snow-capped mountains in the Swiss Alps, this is a barnstorming European best-of. Because we don't want you to miss out on the unmissable.

Priced From:

$ 5435pp ^*

From: 2025-01-04

To: 2025-03-08

Start Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands

End Location: London, United Kingdom

Trip Type: Iconic Essentials

Tour Advisors

Tiffany McCrea-Lennon

Managing Director

Michelle Baldwin

Travel Specialist

Gaylyn Murdoch

Administration Manager

Russell Mein

Travel Specialist

Holly Skene

Travel Co-ordinator

Kim Thomas

Broker

Itinerary

London to Amsterdam

Day 1

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)

The adventure of a lifetime kicks off today. Meet up with your new Contiki family in London town before hitting the road to Amsterdam. Shortly before we find our ferry for France, we'll be taking in the English coastline beauty of the White Cliffs of Dover. They owe their gorgeousness to their composition of chalk - you're learning and we haven't even left the UK! Off the ferry we arrive in the port town of Calais - French soil! We travel north via Belgium before reaching...Amsterdam! Tonight, after an included dinner and a panoramic view of Amsterdam, the fun-famed Amsterdam is yours to explore in all its glory.

Amsterdam

Day 2

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)

Amsterdam is cute as a button & sure to win your heart with its canals, obscure museums & a café culture like no other. Today use your time to get local, bar hop, museum crawl, and see what other tastes take your fancy, this place is famous for pancakes, frites and so much more.

Amsterdam to Berlin

Day 3

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)

Amsterdam, it's been lovely, but today's agenda is onto the autobahn and on the fast-track to uber-cool Berlin. On the world map of party vibes, Berlin has a gold star. We've got two nights to explore every inch of this iconic city, and we'll start them off with a driving tour. After that, you're free to explore, and maybe even sample some of that legendary nightlife for yourself...

Berlin

Day 4

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)

Get into the mood of exploration with a historical walking tour where you'll discover 20th century Berlin (including Hitler's underground bunker & the Holocaust Memorial) with our local guide. Berlin has so much to offer the hungry traveller, from the obvious icons like Checkpoint Charlie to all the obscurities tucked away in the side streets. This evening we’ll embark on an Alternative Berlin walking tour, taking us to all the city’s hipster haunts.

Berlin to Prague

Day 5

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Plus Prague (or similar)

"More city hangs" you'll all scream in unison as we motor out of Berlin, high on life & still wanting more. Since you asked so nicely, let us present you with Prague, the darling of Europe. A drive from Berlin to Prague would not be complete without stopping in Dresden. Destroyed by World War II, the rebuilt town is now a symbol of resilience, soaked in the rebirthed beauty of an Opera house, the domed Frauenkirche, & the Royal Residence. On arrival in the compact & lovable city of Prague, we'll get out and go exploring, seeing castles and cathedrals and learning of Bohemian Kings and gothic history.

Prague

Day 6

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Plus Prague (or similar)

With a full day to loiter, expect an entire photo album of Gothic architecture, market antiques & you cheers-ing beer; not to mention life! Tonight, you could see yourself spending the evening indulging in traditional Czech cuisine while admiring the local folklore dancers as the sun goes down on the 'City of a Hundred Spires'.

Prague to Vienna

Day 7

Duration: 1

Accommodation: JO&JOE Vienna (or similar)

Today we exchange the Czech Republic for Austria, waving goodbye to pretty Prague knowing that cultured Vienna is coming right up. Before Vienna we'll be stopping in the Bohemian city of Kutna Hora, remembering that Bohemia is the name of the place and not a nod to the fashion sense of the people that live there. Make the local Sedlec Ossuary chapel a high priority, it's decked out and furnished in the bones of over 40,000 ... humans. Eeep! Austria, we have arrived! It's time for a Habibi & Hawara dinner, followed by a classic night out in one of the city’s imperial palaces (both totally optional, should you prefer to spend your evening relaxing in style.)

Vienna

Day 8

Duration: 1

Accommodation: JO&JOE Vienna (or similar)

A whole day lies ahead to uncover the ethereal Austrian capital. Our Trip Manager will uncover the historical heritage of Schönbrunn Palace, the State Opera House and the gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. And once you've seen all that, you'll have a bit of free time to check out art galleries and local coffee houses, maybe even try a slice of the famous Sacher Torte.

Vienna to Krakow

Day 9

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Ibis budget Krakow Stare Miasto (or similar)

Rise up travellers and start practicing your Polish pleasantries, we'll be in Krakow later today so they may come in handy. It's onto the city of Krakow, which is now known for its salt mining heritage and tales of mythical dragons. Join an Orientation tour to get to know the city's best beer spots and historical hotspots. Tonight you'll have a free night to explore Kraków's vibrant food and nightlife scene.

Krakow

Day 10

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Ibis budget Krakow Stare Miasto (or similar)

This morning we're up and on our way. Today we will change pace as we drop to an unfamiliar and sobering level by visiting the concentration camp memorials of Auschwitz & Birkenau. Learning and growing is what we travellers do��after all. Back in the city, you'll have a free night. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Polish evening and try Pierogi, a Polish favourite - these dumplings are an absolute classic.

Krakow to Budapest

Day 11

Duration: 1

Accommodation: A&O Budapest (or similar)

Alpine scenery and traditional villages will make our departure from Krakow more manageable. Particularly with the knowledge that we have Budapest coming up in the eve. Pastel painted and manicured to perfection, Banska Bystrica is a lunch break that will charm you to no end. Being in Slovakia, it's also your chance to brag 3 countries in one day - you crazy globetrotter you. Welcome to Hungary! Coming in at number 3 on our list of countries ticked off through the day. From the moment we arrive in the river split city, you'll understand why we needed a couple of nights here. Waste no time getting involved with Budapest by joining the optional river cruise and dinner.

Budapest

Day 12

Duration: 1

Accommodation: A&O Budapest (or similar)

The day is yours to tackle Budapest however you see fit. After all the travelling we've done, you've probably earned yourself an afternoon soaking in the city's famous outdoor thermal pools set amongst Art Nouveau architecture. Blissed out in Budapest - there's an insta caption for you. If gardens, fountains, pools and ruins are the call of your day, put Margaret Island top and centre of your to do list.

Budapest to Ljubljana

Day 13

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Ljubljana Resort (or similar)

This morning we say goodbye to the city of Budapest and head south to Slovenia! Though the name Ljubljana might not be as well known as Budapest, that doesn't diminish its delight as a European city. In fact, its undiscovered charm is all part of the fascination... Aesthetically wonderful and filled with youthful moods, Ljubljana is one to love for its off the tourist trail vibes and casual attitude. Without a list of monuments to tick off, you're free to get cozy in a cafe and lap up the endless local feels.

Ljubljana to Venice

Day 14

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)

Ever the advocates of a balanced holiday, today we're trading in the obscure unknown for the globally adored hot spot of Venice. Whoop! Yes, it's as cute as you imagine. Yes, you'll feel like you're part of an Italian fairytale. Yes, you are actually hanging out in the gondola clad floating city of Venice! A private boat ride, gothic architecture and a web of lanes to explore will keep your day filled quite nicely.

Venice to Rome

Day 15

Duration: 1

Accommodation: The Yellow (or similar)

Farewell floating city, but Italy, we're not done with you yet, our next destination the Eternal City is just around the corner. This afternoon will really take it up a notch as we uncover Italian icons in the country's capital of Rome. Gelato, pizza, and ancient monuments galore, but why not try a pasta making class and cook a homemade meal for dinner? If that's not your style feel free to explore and get a glimpse of Rome's glory by night.

Rome

Day 16

Duration: 1

Accommodation: The Yellow (or similar)

Rome wasn't built in a day but we sure can try and see it all in one day! Snap pink azaleas by the Colosseum, throw coins in fountains and sip espresso in a pretty street watching Italian life float by.

Rome to Florence

Day 17

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Hotel Mirage (or similar)

Lets hit the road as we have more of Italy to lust over… No trip around Europe is complete without seeing the world's most famous #AwkwardLean, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Once you've got that perfect snap of you holding the thing up like you're Arnold Schwarzenegger, we'll be on the fast-track to the Florence. For those of you not familiar with the whole Florence deal, we have two words for you: it's heaven. Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is more proof that Italy has so many great places packed into one small region. Potter along the River Arno, be totally Tuscan with another drop of Chianti wine, and take in the beauty of the city and its protruding Duomo Cathedral. We have all day tomorrow to let the explorations continue.

Florence

Day 18

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Hotel Mirage (or similar)

Today is a perfect balance of guided wisdom, food and free time to roam. Take the opportunity to explore streets bursting with heritage and delicious flavours as you explore the local markets and down some gelato.

Florence to Swiss Alps

Day 19

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Adventure Hostel Interlaken (or similar)

Hopefully by now you are head to toe in fresh leather, you've eaten your bodyweight in antipasto, and you're feeling fresh as a daisy and ready to farewell Florence. No trip around Europe is complete without seeing the world's most famous #AwkwardLean, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Once you've got that perfect snap of you holding the thing up like you're Arnold Schwarzenegger, we'll be on the fast-track to the Swiss Alps. Bunking down amid fairytale snowcapped mountains tonight shows how far we've come since golden Florence this morning, and that right there is the magic of Europe. Tomorrow we'll set out to explore this magical land of cheese, chocolate and watches.

Swiss Alps

Day 20

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Adventure Hostel Interlaken (or similar)

Open the window of your room & drink in the incredible view - if you can find words or photos that do it justice, we applaud you! If you're feeling audacious, opt to take a trip to a Swiss mountain with your travel crew, or feel free to explore this classic European adventure town.

Swiss Alps to Paris

Day 21

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Jo&Joe Gentilly (or similar)

Out with the altitude, in with the inner-city Parisian bliss. Once we've crossed the border out of Switzerland we will be coasting through the pretty wine producing region of Burgundy before our arrival in Paris. We'll reach Paris and enjoy an included dinner before a chance to explore the glittering city of lights.

Paris

Day 22

Duration: 1

Accommodation: Jo&Joe Gentilly (or similar)

Stock up on perfume at the Fragonard Perfumery. Especially given the greatly discounted prices and authenticity of buying in France. Later you can moan over haute couture you can't afford, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral whilst juggling coffee and crêpes, & get artsy at the many rooms of the Louvre. Just don't wear yourself out, you will probably want to get involved with dinner and a cabaret show. With your last night looming, make it one to remember in the city of lights.

Paris to London

Day 23

Duration: 1

Soak up your last dose of Paris and feel the astonishment of how much you've seen on this trip. And how close you've grown to your loved-up Contiki collective. What a journey, if you've chosen to end your trip on arrival in London say a fond farewell to the remainder of your group as you wrap up the journey on arrival.

Dates & prices

Start Date: 2025-01-11

End Date: 2025-02-02

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Child Price:

Adult Price: 6341

Start Date: 2025-01-25

End Date: 2025-02-16

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Child Price:

Adult Price: 5737

Start Date: 2025-02-01

End Date: 2025-02-23

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Child Price:

Adult Price: 6039

Start Date: 2025-02-15

End Date: 2025-03-09

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Child Price:

Adult Price: 5435

Start Date: 2025-03-08

End Date: 2025-03-30

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Child Price:

Adult Price: 6341

European Trail | Classic | Start Amsterdam | Winter | 2024/25

Tour Advisors

Itinerary

Dates & prices