Ultimate European
The one that does it big – all of Europe, topped off with the Greek Islands
Included/Excluded
- Taste Wine at the Château
- Tour Rome on Foot
Tour Plan
London
Welcome to the first day of the best trip of your life - we're calling it early! After a few pleasantries in London we'll get the show on the road with Paris in our sights.
Dover
A few hours in and your jaws are on the floor already. These chalk cliffs that edge the English coastline are known as the White Cliffs of Dover, the first of many natural beauties we'll see on our trip.
Calais
After we ferry across the English Channel for France we'll arrive in Calais, where we will pass through the World War I battlefields in the Valley of the Somme.
Paris
Kicking off night one, we arrive in none other than the lust-worthy Paris. You have the chance to see the Eiffel Tower tonight, but save some of the views for the city tour tomorrow!
Paris
Paris
Out with the city life, in with the fresh mountain air. On leaving Paris we’ll coast through the pretty wine producing region of Burgundy before crossing the border to Switzerland.
Swiss Alps
With magical views unfolding outside our windows we'll find ourselves in Switzerland, ready for two nights at our accommodation in the heart of this traditional resort town. Tonight we'll have a chance to soak up the idyllic scenery, as well as load up on Swiss chocolate.
Swiss Alps
Open the window of your room and drink in the incredible view. Today you’re free to explore this classic European adventure town. Feeling extra adventurous? Today is your chance to ascend Jungfrau mountain, aka ‘the Top of Europe’.
Swiss Alps
It’s been sweet, but we’re swapping Switzerland back for France again this morning.
Geneva
But first, there's just time for one last breath of fresh mountain air. A quick lunch break in the home of the UN's headquarters and a view of that oh so famous water fountain. Grab a bite to eat and a last mouthful of delish swiss chocolate (try saying that three times fast) and then we'll be on our way.
Beaujolais Wine Region
Rolling into the Beaujolais region of France amidst vineyards, we'll arrive at Contiki’s very own 16th century château. This might just be our most decadent accommodation yet, complete with newly-renovated bedrooms & bathrooms, an on-site nightclub, artwork in every room, a games room, and a powder room for makeup and hair. And we haven't even shown you the pool or the gardens yet! Tonight we'll start off with an included dinner and wine tasting here at the Château, because, when in France...
Beaujolais Wine Region
Pinch yourself, this is another day at the Château & another chance to live your best French countryside life with a full day here in Beaujolais. Rise & shine with optional sunrise yoga on the sprawling lawn of the Château's gardens or loll about poolside in our castle-like setting. Our highlight today is a picnic in the picturesque gardens. Cue panoramic views & red wine.
Beaujolais Wine Region
Bye-bye Beaujolais! And hello Barcelona. The Pyrénées mountains will keep our eyes satisfied today as we roll across the border for Spain's most lively city. Each day as sweet as the last.
Barcelona
Well would you look at that for timing, we've pulled into Barcelona just on sangria o'clock. Fate, you've done it again! Tapas and a night exploring the city should have us in the Spanish mood before we know it.
Barcelona
Barcelona
As smitten as we are by Barcelona, we have more of Europe to conquer. Much, much more..
Arles
After a dreamy drive across the border into France through landscapes of lavender, sunflowers and wild herbs, we'll arrive at our lunch break town of Arles. Here we will get a peek at an ancient Roman Arena and at a typical provincial French town.
French Riviera
You're not a real celebrity until you've frolicked on the French Riviera, and who are we to keep you off the A-List? Sapphire waters & endless glamour as we roll through this glitzy coastline.
French Riviera
Relaxation on the French Riviera... what could be better?! Market hopping, swimming in the Mediterranean Sea and an optional bike ride with the coastline as the backdrop are on the agenda today.
Monaco City
This evening we add even more glamour to your life with a visit to Monaco. Don a fancy necklace and pop a plum in your mouth - we're about to embark on the lifestyle of the rich and famous.
French Riviera
After a night on the blackjack table it's back to the coast and to bed, the next part of the adventure starts tomorrow.
French Riviera
Wake up and smell the… French perfume! Today you’ll visit a Perfumery, where you’ll take a look around and even have the chance to craft a signature scent of your own.
Venice
The floating city of gondolas, canals and pretty bridges - what a splendid way to commence our Italian love affair.
Venice
Buongiorno! We'll start exploring The Floating City by jumping aboard our own private motoscafo boat and cruising the canals en route to the historical heart of the city. Next, you have the option to discover Venice on a traditional gondola ride, or taking a guided tour of some of the best foodie hotspots in town.
Venice
Farewell floating city, but Italy, we're not done with you yet, our next destination Florence is just around the corner.
Pisa
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 Florence.
Florence
Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is more proof that Italy has so many great places packed into one small region. Here you’ll be free to drift along the River Arno, get into the Tuscan vibes with a drop of Chianti wine, visit the markets and taste the local gelato, and admire the beauty of the city and its magnificent Duomo Cathedral. Take it all in! Tonight you’ll have the chance to sign up for a delicious Tuscan dinner, visit the historic Red Garter bar or enjoy a free evening.
Florence
This morning is the perfect balance of guided local wisdom and free time to roam. First we'll uncover the beautiful art of traditional leatherwork, then you’re free to make the most of your final hours in Florence. Finally with a heartfelt ‘ciao’ to Florence, we’re bound for the epicentre of Italy: the Eternal City of Rome.
Rome
After we drift through the rustic Tuscan hillsides of cypress trees and glowing fields, we'll be back city side in the Italian capital of Rome. Starting with a city walking tour, the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon & Piazza Navona are just some of the icons we'll be casting our eyes upon before the sun sets.
Rome
When in Rome... This is the day to learn a thing or two about the Colosseum on an optional guided tour. Espressos and people watching should be high priority, as well as stuffing yourself to the brim with pasta, gelato and caprese salad all washed down with a glass of red at a local trattoria.
Rome
The majestic site of Mt. Vesuvius will interlude our trip from Rome to Brindisi, our ferry port for today's border leap into Greece.
Pompeii
Once a totally vibing hang-out of the Romans, Pompeii is now an archaeological site showing remains of what was destroyed by a mountain eruption in the year...wait for it...79AD. The saying "step back in time" is about to take on a whole new meaning.
Brindisi
Let your feet walk their last few steps on Italian soil before we hit the seas for an overnight ferry ride en route to Greece.
Overnight Adriatic Ferry
Full steam ahead this morning, our course is set for Athens via the Corinth Canal.
Igoumenitsa
Oh hello there...we're pulling up in Greece!
Corinth
The awe of Greece's mainland will begin shortly as we catch a glimpse of the Corinth Canal. This man-made passageway squeezes boats through it's path, sandwiched by two steep cliffs and sitting over glorious blue ocean. Docking here, we’ll make tracks overland for Athens.
Athens
A collage of ancient wonders & modern magnificence, the allure of Athens is hard to resist. We'll jump straight in with a sightseeing tour of Athens. Our Local Guide will escort us through the history of the city visiting the Parthenon & Acropolis, followed by a visit to the first & original 'modern' (read: 1896) Olympic stadium.
Athens
This morning is ours to soak up the last few hours of Athens, before we swap ancient history for island life on Ios.
Ios
Sweet mother of sunshine we're going to the Greek Islands! And Ios, no less. A little less developed than its brothers and sisters, you'll be overawed by its rugged beauty from the time we begin our approach. Relax in the knowledge that we've got 3 whole nights up our sleeves to explore.
Ios
Don’t underestimate the power of this island. When the sun sets, this place really comes to life. As such, we suggest a day out on the water getting salty on a boat trip, or a full day of pool hangs and beach time so you're all sun-kissed and feeling floaty by the time the night rolls in.
Ios
Ios
Just as you're beginning to lose track of time and forget that a world exists beyond Ios, we'll head off. One more day getting in the groove of things and you'll wind up being that kid who came to Ios and decided to never leave.
Santorini
Thousands of years ago a volcano erupted - one of the largest eruptions in the recorded history of the Earth - and made what we now know as the island of Santorini. Only it didn't have its iconic blue-domed churches back then, those came a little further down the track. That's all for your history lesson, now the day is yours to potter & pout while taking happy snaps. And "happy" today will be an absolute understatement.
Santorini
Santorini
Santorini
Wipe those sad looks off your faces! Life doesn't end when you leave the Greek Islands. In fact we have many, many more places to look forward to. Turkey, Austria and Germany just to name a few.
Athens
Oh hey Athens, it feels like forever since we last hung out! And same goes for our Contiki posse. Enjoy this reunion night then it's back on the road tomorrow - the good times never stop.
Athens
By now you should be well and truly acquainted with all things Athens and ready to embark on our next venture.
Thermopylae
Before arrival in our final destination in this fine country we'll see Greece’s highest peak, Mt Olympus, and the grounds of Thermopylae, where an ancient battle of 300 vs. thousands proved size really doesn't matter.
Kavala
The coastal town of Kavala is our nest for the evening. Down your last Greek salad, cheers the country over a glass of ouzo and sleep well in preparation for our next few days in Turkey.
Kavala
Get your pout out and blow your final kiss in the direction of Greece. We'll be carving up the seas making our way to...Turkey! Ah, the traveller life.
Gallipoli
We'll start our Turkish explorations on a sobering note by visiting the battle grounds of Gallipoli. This is the spot where the ANZAC troops landed during WW1.
Eceabat
Hello Eceabat! This stunning seaside town will be our home for tonight. Rest your heads. Get some sleep. And get ready for another wonderful day tomorrow.
Eceabat
Morning, travellers. Today, we'll travel along the coast to the capital.
Istanbul
Unlike anywhere else on earth, Istanbul is set to capture your heart and imagination. Rest up tonight and the city is yours from sunrise.
Istanbul
The Blue Mosque with its interior of 20,000 handmade tiles; lively spice markets; bazaars bursting at the sides with silver & jewels. Istanbul is one place we'll really have to drag you away from. Our Local Guide will show you the hotspots, and you're always free to get lost and uncover some secrets of your own. Just be sure to find your way back if you're keen for the optional Turkish evening with dinner and a show.
Istanbul
Istanbul
Crossing the border from Turkey to Bulgaria, we'll arrive at the Black Sea late afternoon.
Black Sea
Here we'll be greeted by coastal resort towns and bar-lined waterfronts, where we'll be heading this evening to enjoy some dinner and a taste of the local nightlife.
Black Sea
This morning we'll set our sights on Romania.
Bucharest
Crossing the border, we'll arrive in Bucharest this afternoon to discover beautiful architecture, street art, rooftop cafes, and an ornate Parliament building with enough steel, bronze, marble, crystal and wood that combine to make it the heaviest in the world! You'll have free time this afternoon and evening to explore the city, maybe checking out the colourful umbrella passage between Universitate and Victoriei, or tasting an authentic traditional meal in the Old City at one of the local bistros.
Bucharest
Departing Bucharest after breakfast, we'll set our sights for none other than Transylvania.
Târgu Mureș
Of course, a stay in Transylvania wouldn't be complete without a drive to Bran Castle to visit the real life setting that inspired Dracula, before driving on towards Târgu Mureș. With a free evening tonight, you'll also have the chance to explore the local nightlife and bar scene.
Târgu Mureș
We'll leave behind the ghosts of Transylvania's past and hit the road for Budapest.
Budapest
Fun fact #1: Buda and Pest are two different cities separated by a river, together they make Budapest. Fun fact #2: You're going to be head over heels with both of them by the time we scoot outta here. Down goulash and cabbage rolls on tonight's optional cruise to get into the Hungarian spirit of things.
Budapest
Budapest
Bye Budapest! Normally we’d be devastated to be leaving, but with Austria on the horizon we have strudel and music to look forward to.
Salzburg
Onwards and upwards we go, into the mountain ranges that made the Sound of Music famous. Also home to Mozart, you can be pretty certain Salzburg knows a tune! This evening you’ll have the chance to venture off the beaten track and visit a working farm in the hills above Salzburg where the local family will invite us into their home to eat, drink and learn about their lives. This family have lived on the farm for many generations and now look to tourism to help support them and their local community, with food sourced from local farms and fruit for the schnaps from the village.
Salzburg
Morning Salzburg! Today you’ll have the chance to sign up for a tour of the Sights & Sounds of Salzburg before we say goodbye to Salzburg and continue on in our discovery of Austria.
Hopfgarten im Brixental
Breathe in that fresh alpine air and take in the dreamy setting we’ve descended upon. Here in the Austrian Tyrol we'll be resting up in a Contiki Special Stay, a local Austrian Gasthof (guest house) that's waiting for us with open arms. This is the perfect cosy retreat to relax and swap stories with our crew, while tucking into authentic Austrian food and local beer prepared fresh on site.
Hopfgarten im Brixental
Hopfgarten im Brixental
Polish off your stay in Austria with an optional whitewater rafting adventure - that should get the adrenaline pumping and excitement high for our impending visit to Germany.
Munich
Munich
Today it’s goodbye Germany, hello Czech. But first, we have an important stop to make.
Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
Journeying out of Munich, we’ll make a stop at Dachau for a sobering visit to the Dachau concentration camp memorial. You'll be able to spend some time here to learn and reflect, before we head on to Prague.
Regensburg
Lunch time! After a brief stopover in this old town, we'll hit the road once again.
Prague
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 & Queens and gothic history. The evening will see us immerse ourselves in Czech culture with an optional Traditional Czech evening, featuring a folklore show and dinner.
Prague
Prague
You may have fallen head over heels for Prague, but we have so many more places to be! Back on the coach, we'll roll on to our next country, Germany.
Dresden
A drive from Prague to Berlin wouldn't be complete without stopping in Dresden. Sadly destroyed by World War II, the rebuilt town is now a symbol of resilience, soaked in the beauty of an Opera house, the domed Frauenkirche, & the Royal Residence. We'll spot them all on a tour of the best spots before hitting the road again.
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 kick it off by seeing the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall known as East Side Gallery and one of the city's symbols, covered in graffiti from head to toe followed by an included dinner.
Berlin
Today you'll have the chance to really uncover Berlin. You can opt to take a historical walking tour, including a visit to the site of Hitler's bunker. Otherwise, you're free to explore all the obscurities tucked away off the main street of Unter Den Linden, see the Brandenburg Gate, discover nature in the Tiergarten, or catch the U-bahn to one of Berlin's quirky neighbourhoods. This evening you'll also have the chance to join an alternative walking tour of the city, showing you a side of Berlin not often seen by tourists. And if you're looking for a night out, now is the perfect time to scope out one of those underground raves or cocktail-lounge-in-the-basement scenarios that Berlin is famous for.
Berlin
We’ll journey out of Germany today and travel through the gloriously flat Netherlands with Amsterdam in our sights.
Amsterdam
We'll enjoy an included dinner in Amsterdam this evening, then it’s off to explore the city however you like. Whatever eclectic fantasies you have about Amsterdam, the real life version will impress you more. Fire yourself up for pretty canals, bounty of unique museums, a comedy show (if you fancy) and quirky cafes galore.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Get your tissues ready, it's time to say goodbye to your new Contiki family. If required, we can escort you to Schiphol Airport by about 10am.
Calais
Dover
London
This afternoon we cross from France to England and then back to London-town, where you'll be left to start dreaming up your next big adventure.
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