London to Rome Trail | Start Amsterdam | Classic | Winter | 24/25
London to Rome Trail | Start Amsterdam | Classic | Winter | 24/25
$3165
London to Rome Trail | Start Amsterdam | Classic | Winter | 24/25
16 Days Starting in Amsterdam, Netherlands and ending in Rome, Italy
Visiting: Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Kraków, Budapest, Ljubljana, Venice, Rome
Tour operator:
Tour code:
WWTRME19
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable winter journey from London to Rome, starting in the vibrant city of Amsterdam. This classic trail takes you through 11 captivating countries, including England, France, Germany, and Italy, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Marvel at the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, explore Berlin's historic landmarks, and wander through Prague's enchanting streets. Discover the haunting history of Auschwitz-Birkenau, and soak in the artistic charm of Vienna. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Banská Bystrica and the fairytale allure of Ljubljana. Experience the unique waterways of Venice before arriving in the eternal city of Rome. With 15 breakfasts and 4 dinners included, this tour promises a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, making it a perfect winter escape for the adventurous traveler.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: London To Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Accommodation: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
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.
Day 2: Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Accommodation: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 3: Amsterdam To Berlin
Location: Berlin
Accommodation: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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...
Day 4: Berlin
Location: Berlin
Accommodation: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 5: Berlin To Prague
Location: Prague
Accommodation: Plus Prague (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Plus Prague (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
"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.
Day 6: Prague
Location: Prague
Accommodation: Plus Prague (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Plus Prague (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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'.
Day 7: Prague To Vienna
Location: Vienna
Accommodation: JO&JOE Vienna (or similar)
Accommodation Name: JO&JOE Vienna (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.)
Day 8: Vienna
Location: Vienna
Accommodation: JO&JOE Vienna (or similar)
Accommodation Name: JO&JOE Vienna (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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.
Day 9: Vienna To Krakow
Location: Kraków
Accommodation: Ibis budget Krakow Stare Miasto (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis budget Krakow Stare Miasto (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 10: Krakow
Location: Kraków
Accommodation: Ibis budget Krakow Stare Miasto (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis budget Krakow Stare Miasto (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 11: Krakow To Budapest
Location: Budapest
Accommodation: A&O Budapest (or similar)
Accommodation Name: A&O Budapest (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 12: Budapest
Location: Budapest
Accommodation: A&O Budapest (or similar)
Accommodation Name: A&O Budapest (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 13: Budapest To Ljubljana
Location: Ljubljana
Accommodation: Ljubljana Resort (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ljubljana Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 14: Ljubljana To Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 15: Venice To Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation: The Yellow (or similar)
Accommodation Name: The Yellow (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 16: End Rome
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, it's time to make the most of Rome before we all head home. If you're lucky, you'll have the chance to discover the Colosseum this morning (your Trip Manager will advise at the start of the trip if this is the case.) Afterwards, it's time for sad goodbyes, reunion plans and an all-round marvelling at how amazing it's all been...
What's Included
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Meals
The tour includes 4 dinners and 15 breakfasts.
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Sightseeing in Dover
See the iconic chalk-white coastline of Dover.
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Berlin Sightseeing
Explore the longest open-air gallery in the world and visit Tiergarten, Alexanderplatz, the Russian War Memorial, Brandenburg Gate, and the historic Reichstag building.
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Dresden Architecture
See the Baroque architecture that was rebuilt after the WWII bombings, including the Royal Residence, Zwinger Palace, Opera House, and Frauenkirche.
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Prague Exploration
Walk through the winding cobbled streets and head up into the fairytale-like Castle District for panoramic city views. Visit Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square, Old Town Square, and the Astronomical Clock.
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Vienna Scenic Drive
Enjoy a scenic drive along the historic Ring Road of Vienna, seeing St Stephen’s Cathedral and the State Opera House.
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Kraków Orientation
Get familiar with the cathedral, Royal Castle, and all the best places to grab a beer in Kraków.
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Auschwitz-Birkenau Visit
Reflect on the tragedies of the past with a solemn visit to the largest concentration camp in World War II.
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Ljubljana Orientation
Join an orientation of Slovenia’s fairytale-like capital, Ljubljana.
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Venice Experience
Speed across the lagoon to the aqueous island of Venice and enjoy the classic gondola boats.
What's Not Included
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Sedlec Ossuary Chapel Entry
Entry to the Sedlec Ossuary Chapel in Kutná Hora is not included and requires an additional cost.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as a Habibi & Hawara dinner in Vienna, a night out in one of the city’s imperial palaces, and a river cruise and dinner in Budapest are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 15 Breakfast (B)
Included Experience
- Dover: See the iconic chalk-white coastline. So special that it’s had songs dedicated to it.
- Berlin: Heads up culture vultures. Here’s your chance to check out the longest open-air gallery in the world.
- Berlin: Get your culture on. It’s time to see Tiergarten, Alexanderplatz, the Russian War Memorial, Brandenburg Gate and the historic Reichstag building.
- Dresden: See the Baroque architecture that was rebuilt after the WWII bombings. Royal Residence, Zwinger Palace, Opera House and Frauenkirche.
- Prague: Walk through the winding cobbled streets and head up into the fairytale-like Castle District for panoramic city views.
- Prague: Charles Bridge. Wenceslas Square. Old Town Square. The Astronomical Clock. See them all IRL in this whimsical city.
- Kutna Hora: We’ll have some free time to explore the quaint town of Kutná Hora. Looking for an experience you’ll feel in your bones? Don’t miss your chance to check out the local Sedlec Ossuary Chapel – decorated on the inside with 40,000 human skeletons (additional cost applies).
- Vienna: Buckle up for a scenic drive along the historic Ring Road of Vienna. See St Stephen’s Cathedral and the State Opera House as you go.
- Kraków: Get your bearings in this medieval Polish city. Our orientation will get you familiar with the cathedral, Royal Castle and all the best places to grab a beer.
- Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau: Reflect on the tragedies of the past with a solemn visit to the largest concentration camp in World War II.
- Banská Bystrica: This historic Slovakian city is filled with ornate buildings and framed by snow-capped mountains. It’s the perfect Insta backdrop!
- Ljubljana: Join your new gang for an orientation of Slovenia’s fairytale-like capital. Get your fix of rainbow architecture, Insta-friendly bridges and epic mountain backdrops.
- Venice: Speed across the lagoon to the aqueous island of Venice.
- Venice: Life’s all about the waterways here; there’s not an Uber in sight! Get some classic pics of the famous gondola boats.
- Rome: Stroll around the Italian capital, ticking off some sights on your bucket list!
Mode of Transport
Travel across Europe by road, starting from London and journeying through various countries including France, Germany, and Italy, with ferry crossings and scenic drives, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.
Accommodation
Stay in comfortable and sociable hostels such as Via Hostel Amsterdam, Generator Alexanderplatz in Berlin, Plus Prague, JO&JOE Vienna, Ibis budget Krakow Stare Miasto, A&O Budapest, Ljubljana Resort, Anda Venice Hostel, and The Yellow in Rome, offering a mix of modern amenities and vibrant atmospheres.
FAQs
- London: Travelling to (and through) the UK & Northern Ireland? You’ll need Essential Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)From January 8, 2025, UK law means that if you’re entering/transiting through the United Kingdom (UK) and Northern Ireland you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before you travel. Confused? Don’t be – just read on here.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of cultural experiences can I expect in Berlin?
In Berlin, you can expect a historical walking tour that includes sites like Hitler's underground bunker and the Holocaust Memorial. Additionally, there is an Alternative Berlin walking tour that takes you to the city's hipster haunts.
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What unique experience is available in Kutna Hora?
In Kutna Hora, you have the opportunity to visit the Sedlec Ossuary Chapel, which is decorated with the bones of over 40,000 humans. This is an additional cost experience.
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What activities are available in Prague?
In Prague, you can explore Gothic architecture, market antiques, and enjoy traditional Czech cuisine while watching local folklore dancers. The city offers a rich history with castles, cathedrals, and tales of Bohemian Kings.
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What can I do in Vienna during the tour?
In Vienna, you can explore the historical heritage of Schönbrunn Palace, the State Opera House, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. You also have free time to visit art galleries, local coffee houses, and try the famous Sacher Torte.
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What is the significance of the visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau?
The visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau is a solemn experience where you can reflect on the tragedies of the past, as it was the largest concentration camp during World War II.
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What can I expect to see in Venice?
In Venice, you can enjoy a private boat ride, explore gothic architecture, and wander through the city's web of lanes. The city is famous for its gondola boats and picturesque waterways.
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What is the final activity in Rome before the tour ends?
On the final day in Rome, you have the chance to discover the Colosseum, depending on the schedule advised by your Trip Manager. This is followed by farewells and reflecting on the tour's experiences.
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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.
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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.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.
