Rome to London Trail | Gap Year 18-22 | Summer | 2026
Rome to London Trail | Gap Year 18-22 | Summer | 2026
Rome to London Trail | Gap Year 18-22 | Summer | 2026
8 Days Starting in Rome, Italy and ending in London, United Kingdom
Visiting: Rome, Florence, Swiss Alps, Paris, London
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GPRTMA26
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-22
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Rome to London Trail" designed for young adventurers aged 18-22. This limited edition summer tour in 2026 takes you through the heart of Europe, starting in the historic city of Rome. Experience the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa en route to the artistic haven of Florence, where you can indulge in Tuscan delights. Journey through the breathtaking Swiss Alps, then immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Paris, exploring landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Conclude your adventure in the bustling city of London. With a mix of guided tours, free time, and unique experiences like a Parisian perfume workshop, this tour promises a perfect blend of exploration and camaraderie. Join fellow gap year travelers for an epic European escapade filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable memories.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: The Yellow (or similar)
Buongiorno! Welcome to the Eternal City. Head out and explore some of the sights before tonight when you'll get a chance to meet your travel squad and plan your next epic week together with your fellow Gap Year-goers!
Day 2: Rome To Florence Via Pisa
Location: Florence
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mirage (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 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.
Day 3: Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mirage (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 4: Florence To Swiss Alps
Location: Swiss Alps
Accommodation Name: Adventure Hostel Interlaken (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 5: Swiss Alps
Location: Swiss Alps
Accommodation Name: Adventure Hostel Interlaken (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 6: Swiss Alps To Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Jo&Joe Gentilly (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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.
Day 7: Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Jo&Joe Gentilly (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 8: Paris To London
Location: London
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
What's Included
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Dining Summary
The tour includes 7 breakfasts and 1 dinner.
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Included Experience - Pisa
Your ultimate chance to ‘hold the tower up’ as you pose for that classic Insta snap.
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Included Experience - Paris
Take a dreamy jaunt around the city of romance. Fall in love with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Champs-Élysées and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
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Included Experience - Paris Perfume House
Your chance to learn the art of fragrance at a Parisian perfume house.
What's Not Included
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Meals Not Included
Meals other than the specified 7 breakfasts and 1 dinner are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as trips to Swiss mountains or cabaret shows in Paris are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as shopping, souvenirs, and additional food and drinks are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Europe with ease, starting in Rome and journeying through iconic destinations like Florence, the Swiss Alps, and Paris, before concluding in London, with transportation arranged to maximize your sightseeing experience.
Accommodation
Stay in comfortable accommodations such as The Yellow in Rome, Hotel Mirage in Florence, Adventure Hostel Interlaken in the Swiss Alps, and Jo&Joe Gentilly in Paris, ensuring a cozy and convenient base for your European adventure.
Dining Summary
- 7 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Dinner (D)
Included Experience
- Pisa: Your ultimate chance to ‘hold the tower up’ as you pose for that classic Insta snap.
- Paris: Take a dreamy jaunt around the city of romance. Fall in love with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Champs-Élysées and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- Paris: Your chance to learn the art of fragrance at a Parisian perfume house. You know it makes scents! (soz).
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.
- London: Can I share a room with my partner on this trip? Your Trip Manager will advise you on who you’ll share your room with. On this trip, you’ll stay in a multi-share room with other travellers of the same sex.
Check out our Q&As
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What can I expect on the first day of the tour in Rome?
On the first day in Rome, you will have the opportunity to explore the city and meet your travel group. It's a chance to get acquainted with your fellow travelers and plan the upcoming week together.
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Will there be any guided tours in Florence?
Yes, the day in Florence includes a perfect balance of guided wisdom, food, and free time to explore the local markets and enjoy some gelato.
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What activities are available in the Swiss Alps?
In the Swiss Alps, you can enjoy the breathtaking views from your accommodation. You have the option to take a trip to a Swiss mountain with your travel group or explore the adventure town on your own.
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What is included in the Paris itinerary?
In Paris, you will have the chance to visit the Fragonard Perfumery, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral, explore the Louvre, and possibly enjoy dinner and a cabaret show. It's a day filled with cultural and shopping experiences.
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How does the tour conclude in London?
The tour concludes in London after a journey from Paris. You will have time to reflect on the trip and say farewell to your travel group as the journey wraps up upon arrival in London.
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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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Wednesday - Wednesday
Aug 05, 2026 - Aug 12, 2026Book with Confidence
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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
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Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
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