European Discovery | Start London | Classic | Summer | Season 2024

European Discovery | Start London | Classic | Summer | Season 2024

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European Discovery | Start London | Classic | Summer | Season 2024

12 Days Starting and ending in London

Visiting: England, France, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, United Kingdom

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

BBHDA19

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 42

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural, History

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Ready for the beginning of your sweet love affair with Europe? This trip uncovers Europe’s finest in 12 days, complete with Bavarian beer & a private boat through the Venetian canals. We'll discover Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, Munich, Venice & Florence, flirting with many more destinations along the way, from a traditional German beer hall to the breathtaking Austrian Tyrol mountain range and a visit to our fave Roman gelateria (on us). You’ll get a taste for all the best bits of the continent and travel through 8 countries in one trip. By the time you get back to London you'll be completely smitten.

Highlights

  • Explore the English coastline beauty of the White Cliffs of Dover and Experience an evening canal cruise in Amsterdam

  • Discover Munich's famous Gothic clock and traditional Bavarian culture and Wine tasting in Germany's famous Rhine Valley

  • Visit the world's smallest country Vatican City and take an optional guided tour of the Vatican Museums including the Sistine Chapel

  • Learn the art of leather in Florence and enjoy a guided walking tourExperience the Swiss Alps and the city of Lucerne

  • Night-time tour of Paris including a visit to the Montparnasse Tower for panoramic city views

Itinerary

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Day 1 : London To Amsterdam

Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Amsterdam City South (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

Your heart-pounding adventure kicks off today. Meet up with your Contiki posse & share notes on London town before hitting the road to Amsterdam. Shortly before we find our ferry for Europe, we'll be taking in the English coastline beauty of the White Cliffs of Dover. They owe their gorgeousness to their composition of chalk  see, 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 an optional evening canal cruise, the fun-famed Amsterdam is yours to explore in all its red-lit glory.

Day 2 : Amsterdam To Rhine Valley

Accommodation Name: Hotel Montag Sankt Goar (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Now it's time to pour some sunlight on the agenda & take in the beauty of canals, crooked buildings, obscure museums & a café culture like no other. 
After the scenic journey of fairytale castles, vineyards and valleys, you'll be charmed before we even arrive in Germany's famous Rhine Valley. This back-in-time town is our wine tasting host for the evening.

Day 3 : Rhine Valley To Munich

Accommodation Name: Bento Inn Munich Messe (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Too much grape juice last night? Not to worry, the prospect of Munich should lift your spirits as we travel south & swap wine culture for beer.
Today our eyes will be treated to a famous Gothic clock, a charming old town & traditional Bavarian culture. You'll have the option to explore the side streets by foot and afterwards why not choose to explore one of the city's many beer halls, where you can try a stein of beer or even a pork knuckle!

Day 4 : Munich To Innsbruck

Accommodation Name: Hotel Dollinger (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Goodbye Munich, hello mountains. We're hitting the road in search of lands so sweet they made The Sound of Music. This part of the world is famous for adventure sports, so best put your name next to the optional White Water Rafting and get in the spirit of things. After some adventure time, its time to head to this famous Olympic town and your jaw will drop at the sight of the famous ski jump, and you'll have a chance to soak up the medieval old town atmosphere!

Day 5 : Innsbruck To Venice

Accommodation Name: Hotel Riviera dei Dogi (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wake up roamers, we have a bountiful breakfast and a floating city in Italy to tend to. Life's tough!
You'll think you've seen enough beauty for one day after taking in the Central Austrian Alps & the Brenner Pass en route to Italy. And then we'll arrive in Venice & your jaw will hit the floor over hidden lanes, story book bridges & a private canal boat ride.

Day 6 : Venice To Rome

Accommodation Name: BB Roma Tuscolana (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Farewell floating city, but Italy, we're not done with you yet, our next destination the Eternal City of Rome is just around the corner.


The afternoon will really take it up a notch as we uncover Italian icons in the country's capital of Rome as you get a glimpse of it's glory by night. Gelato, pizza and ancient monuments - perfetto!

Day 7 : Rome

Accommodation Name: BB Roma Tuscolana (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we're up and out early to make the most of our chance to explore this ancient city. Starting with a visit to the world's smallest country, Vatican City.
When in Rome...take an optional guided tour of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel. Religious or not, the Vatican's Italian Renaissance church will send shivers down your spine. This is also the day to learn a thing or two about the Colosseum & do a bit of your own exploring.
Back in Rome, we'll have time to hit the streets and discover the incredible ancient civilization on our doorstep. You can opt to take a tour of the famous Colosseum and walk in the footsteps of Emperors and Gladiators in a guided tour, or snap epic selfies against a background of pink azaleas by the entrance. Visit the Trevi Fountain and throw coins to make a wish, sip espresso in a cobbled backstreet and soak up Italian life as it dances by.

Day 8 : Rome To Florence

Accommodation Name: Hotel Auto Park (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We may be hitting the road again, but we're not done with Italy just yet. We have one more city to lust over…
The dome of Duomo Cathedral sits above the city making certain we know we have arrived in Florence. Take a moment to take in the unique beauty of this beautiful city where culture and la dolce vita is evident in every direction you look at. We'll become history buffs on a guided walking tour before we learn the art of leather. Tonight you can choose to begin your Tuscan love affair at an optional dinner - think olives, cured meats, crostini & wine.

Day 9 : Florence To Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Barabas Hotel Luzern (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Say a fond farewell to Italy, and hello to the land of creamy chocolate, cheese and not to mention watches. Hello Switzerland!
Swans float under wooden bridges, snowcapped mountains stand regally behind us & chocolate tastes like heaven on earth. You're in the Swiss Alps & you cannot wipe the smile off your face. Eeek!!!

Day 10 : Lucerne To Paris

Accommodation Name: B&B Hotel Paris Nord 18ème (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

It's been sweet, but our time in Lucerne is up this morning. We're Paris-bound! Out with the altitude, in with the inner-city Parisian bliss. We'll jump back onto our coach to cross the border out of Switzerland and (back) into France.
After coasting through the pretty wine producing region of Burgundy, we'll arrive in the City of Lights. Lamp-lit bridges, a sparkling Eiffel Tower, & evening coffee haunts, this evening we'll fall in love with everything Paris on a dreamy night-time tour. Is it just us, or is love in the air? Once we've seen the most famous landmarks, we'll celebrate our first night in the city by heading up the Montparnasse Tower for the best panoramic views of the city.

Day 11 : Paris

Accommodation Name: B&B Hotel Paris Nord 18ème (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

It's time to stroll the dreamy streets of Paris, moan over haute couture you can't afford, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral whilst juggling coffee and crêpes, & get artsy at the many museums of the Louvre. Just don't wear yourself out, you will probably want to get involved with a ticket to an iconic cabaret show and dinner. With your last night looming, make it one to remember in the city of lights.

Day 12 : Paris To London

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rise, shine, and soak up your last dose of Paris this morning over a coffee and croissant together, as we marvel at how much we've seen on this magical journey. It may be over for now, but these friendships and memories will last a lifetime.

What's Included

  • Accommodations

    Stay in a mix of hotels and hostels in various cities throughout the tour, including Ibis Budget Amsterdam City South, Hotel Montag Sankt Goar, Bento Inn Munich Messe, Contiki Haus Schoneck, Hotel Riviera dei Dogi, a conveniently located hotel in Rome, Hotel Mirage, Ibis Budget Luzern City, and Ibis Paris Porte D'Italie.

  • Meals

    Enjoy a variety of meals across different destinations, including breakfasts and dinners, offering a taste of local cuisine.

  • Transportation

    Travel comfortably across Europe with transportation provided, including a ferry crossing from Dover to Calais.

  • Guided Tours

    Benefit from guided walking tours in cities like Florence, and the option for a guided tour of the Vatican Museums including the Sistine Chapel.

  • Special Experiences

    Experience unique activities such as wine tasting in Germany's Rhine Valley, a night-time tour of Paris including a visit to the Montparnasse Tower, and a private canal boat ride in Venice.

What's Not Included

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Some Meals

    Not all meals are covered.

    Some lunches and dinners will be at your own expense, providing the opportunity to explore local cuisine.

  • Optional Activities

    Any optional activities mentioned, such as certain guided tours and evening entertainment, may incur an additional cost.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, minibar, and room service are not included.

  • Tips and Gratuities

    Tips and gratuities for tour guides and drivers are not included and are at your discretion.

Check out our Q&As

  • What countries will we visit on the European Discovery tour?

    The European Discovery tour visits England, France, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

  • What are some highlights of the tour?

    Highlights of the tour include exploring the White Cliffs of Dover, experiencing an evening canal cruise in Amsterdam, discovering Munich's famous Gothic clock and Bavarian culture, wine tasting in Germany's Rhine Valley, visiting Vatican City, learning the art of leather in Florence, enjoying a guided walking tour, experiencing the Swiss Alps and the city of Lucerne, and a night-time tour of Paris including a visit to the Montparnasse Tower for panoramic city views.

  • What type of accommodations can we expect?

    Accommodations include a mix of hotels and hostels in various cities throughout the tour, such as Ibis Budget Amsterdam City South, Hotel Montag Sankt Goar, Bento Inn Munich Messe, Contiki Haus Schoneck, Hotel Riviera dei Dogi, a conveniently located hotel in Rome, Hotel Mirage, Ibis Budget Luzern City, and Ibis Paris Porte D'Italie.

  • Are meals included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a variety of meals across different destinations, including breakfasts and dinners, offering a taste of local cuisine.

  • What kind of transportation will be provided?

    Transportation across Europe is provided, including a ferry crossing from Dover to Calais.

  • Are there any guided tours included?

    Yes, the tour benefits from guided walking tours in cities like Florence, and the option for a guided tour of the Vatican Museums including the Sistine Chapel.

  • What are some of the special experiences included in the tour?

    Special experiences include wine tasting in Germany's Rhine Valley, a night-time tour of Paris including a visit to the Montparnasse Tower, and a private canal boat ride in Venice.

  • What is not included in the tour?

    Exclusions include travel insurance, some meals (some lunches and dinners will be at your own expense), optional activities, personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, minibar, and room service, and tips and gratuities for tour guides and drivers.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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