European Contrasts
The perfect tour for those wanting to savour the best parts of Western Europe at a less than hectic pace. Travel days interspersed with free days in cities as well as a 3 day mini-break on a Greek island, this is definitely the best of both worlds when it comes to culture versus relaxation.
Print Itinerary Itinerary & Map
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Day
Depart for EuropeJet off to the trip of a lifetime awaiting you in Europe! -
Day
Arrive LondonCheck-in to your hotel after 2pm then enjoy the day exploring London. Tonight, meet your Contiki Tour Manager and fellow travellers for a pre-departure meeting. Hotel -
Day
London to ParisA warm welcome from your Contiki Crew as we head for the White Cliffs of Dover and the Channel crossing to France. We drive past World War I battlefields to the splendour of Paris. What better way to begin than with an evening tour of the "City Of Lights"? Contiki Village (D) -
Day
ParisToday's sightseeing includes some of the most celebrated icons of Europe. Perhaps take the opportunity to visit the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Arc de Triomphe or the Champs Elysées. Tonight, why not complete your Parisian experience with a French meal and a famous Parisian cabaret? Contiki Village (B) -
Day
Paris to Beaujolais Wine RegionToday's journey leads us to Contiki's exclusive Château de Cruix nestled in the Beaujolais vineyards near Lyon. Contiki Special Stopover (B,D) -
Day
Beaujolais Wine RegionThis morning explore the French countryside and enjoy your included picnic lunch. In the afternoon relax and soak up the idyllic atmosphere of rural France. Contiki Special Stopover (B,PL,D) -
Day
Beaujolais Wine Region to French RivieraWe continue south to the fabulous Cóte d'Azur via the Autoroute de Soleil. Tonight we visit Monaco! View the Royal Palace and take the opportunity to try your luck at the casinos of Monte Carlo. Contiki Village (B,D) -
Day
French RivieraIt's your choice today - perhaps mix with the rich and famous on the beach at Cannes or take a trip into Nice to shop for souvenirs and explore this "Queen of the Riviera". Contiki Village (B,D) -
Day
French Riviera to FlorenceWe visit a French perfumery before continuing to Pisa, home of the Leaning Tower. From here it's a short journey to the most spectacular of Renaissance cities, Florence. Contiki Village (B,D) -
Day
FlorenceYour day includes a walking tour seeing the Piazza della Signoria, the Duomo and Santa Croce, and a chance to shop for leather, gold and silver. In your free time maybe visit one of the city's many museums and this evening enjoy the colourful Florentine nightlife. Contiki Village (B) -
Day
Florence to RomeAll roads lead to Rome where our included sightseeing tour is the perfect introduction to the Eternal City. This afternoon why not discover this city of Gladiators with a local guide? Then, do as the Romans do and stroll past the Trevi Fountain, the amazing Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. Contiki Village (B) -
Day
RomeOnce at the centre of the powerful Roman Empire this city, steeped in centuries of ancient history, awaits your discovery. The Colosseum, Imperial Forum and the treasures of the Vatican City make for a day of serious sightseeing. Contiki Village (B,D) -
Day
Rome to CorfuA chance to take a guided tour of the ancient city of Pompeii as we travel across Italy to board our overnight ferry to Greece. Adriatic Ferry (B) -
Day
CorfuThree sun-filled days on the beautiful Greek island of Corfu. Windsurf, waterski, parasail, swim or just soak up the sun. Get off the beaten track in an open-top 4-wheel drive jeep or cruise along the coast. At night an opportunity to enjoy the local cuisine and try your hand (or feet) at Greek dancing. Contiki Special Stopover (B,D)(B)(B,D) -
Day
Arrive VeniceOur spectacular morning arrival into the Port of Venice is one of Europe's most impressive sights. After docking, we make our way to Verona, home of Romeo and Juliet. A warm welcome awaits us tonight at Contiki's Venice Village. Contiki Village (B,D) -
Day
VeniceA short boat ride takes us into the historical centre of Venice to see St. Mark's Square, the Doges' Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs. See glass and lace making demonstrations and why not treat yourself to a gondola ride? Contiki Village (B,D) -
Day
Venice to ViennaAn enchanting drive as we waltz into the home of Mozart and Strauss to see the splendours of the once mighty Austrian Empire. Classical music to heighten your senses tonight? Hostel (B) -
Day
ViennaOn our sightseeing tour see the fabulous Palace of the Hapsburgs, the State Opera House and fashionable Kärntnerstrasse. In your free time try authentic apple strudel and Viennese coffee. Later why not sample some local schnaps and a traditional Viennese meal? Hostel (B) -
Day
Vienna to PragueStop at the World Heritage town Český Krumlov before arriving in the Czech capital Prague. Hostel (B,D) -
Day
PragueTwo free days to discover the labyrinth of streets in the old town, the medieval castle district and the Charles Bridge, the most photographed bridge in Prague. Hostel (B)(B) -
Day
Prague to MunichOn to Bavaria's lively capital Munich, home to the Oktoberfest. Maybe join us this evening at one of the city's traditional Beer Halls. Hostel (B) -
Day
Munich to Swiss AlpsWe stop for lunch in Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein. Enjoy time to shop and see the sights in Lucerne before reaching our idyllic stop in the Swiss Alps. Contiki Special Stopover (B,D) -
Day
Swiss AlpsA spectacular day where you can choose to hike the many trails or maybe enjoy a trip up the snow-covered Jungfrau mountain on a cog railway that passes through the Eiger mountain! Contiki Special Stopover (B,D) -
Day
Swiss Alps to Rhine ValleyHeading north we re-enter Germany and visit the university town of Heidelberg on the banks of the Neckar River. Tonight we stay in the picturesque Rhine Valley after seeing the famous Lorelei and hearing how German beersteins are crafted in St. Goar. Hotel (B,D) -
Day
Rhine Valley to AmsterdamWe cross the Dutch border and make our way towards Amsterdam. Visit a cheese farm and see how clogs are made. Cycle through the countryside and the village of Edam and enjoy the famous Amsterdam nightlife. Hostel (B,D) -
Day
AmsterdamThis morning why not take a canal bike ride to further explore Amsterdam? In your free time perhaps visit famous sights such as Anne Frank's House or the Van Gogh Museum. Tonight we celebrate our last evening together. Hostel (B) -
Day
Amsterdam to LondonAfter breakfast, there will be a transfer for you to Schipol Airport (estimated arrival at 10:00 am) OR choose to take a complimentary transfer to central London with your Tour Manager and Driver and extend your stay. (B)
Highlights
All these highlights along with city sightseeing are included in your tour price!
Included
- Paris: Evening Tour of Illuminations; See the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, the Champs Élysées, and Notre Dame Cathedral; See Château Fontainebleau
- Beaujolais: Wine tasting; French picnic lunch
- French Riviera: Scenic Drive along the Riviera coast; Visit Monaco & see the Royal Palace; Visit a Monte Carlo casino; Visit a French Perfumery
- Pisa: See the Leaning Tower
- Florence: Walking tour with a local guide; See the Duomo, Basilica Santa Croce, Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistry & Piazza della Signoria; Florentine leather craft demonstration
- Rome: See Piazza Venezia, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Colosseum & Roman Forum
- Vatican City: See St. Peter's Basilica
- Venice: Private motorboat to the historic islands; See Piazza San Marco, Bridge of Sighs and the Doges' Palace; Murano glass-blowing & Burano lace-making demonstrations
- Vienna: See Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral & the State Opera House; Scenic drive along the historic Ring Road
- Cesky Krumlov: Visit the medieval town
- Prague: See Hradcany Castle, the Cathedral of St. Vitus, Charles Bridge and Wenceslas Square
- Munich: See the Glockenspiel & Marienplatz
- Liechtenstein: Visit the capital Vaduz
- Lucerne: See the Wooden Chapel Bridge; Scenic Alpine drive
- Heidelberg: See the medieval castle
- Rhine Valley: Scenic drive along the Rhine River; Visit the riverside town St. Goar
- Amsterdam: See the canals, gable houses and city by night; Bicycle tour of the Dutch countryside; Visit a cheese farm & clog maker's house; Visit a fishing and cheese village
Accommodations
- 29 nights accommodation – 7 nights in Contiki Special Stopovers including 3 nights in Corfu, 10 nights in Contiki Villages, 2 nights in Hotel, 8 nights in Youth Hotels, 2 nights on Adriatic Ferry
- 28 breakfasts (B), 1 picnic lunch (PL) and 15 dinners (D) – as per itinerary
- Most accommodation is twin-share, with a maximum of quad share, and more than half of all Budget accommodations have private facilities
Contiki Difference
- Experienced, professional Tour Manager & Driver
- Resident Contiki manager & team at special stopovers
- Contiki Village representatives
- Modern air-conditioned coach
- Free Contiki Travellers Guide
- Free Contiki document wallet
- Ferry transport as per itinerary
Optional Excursions
Paris
- Nouvelle Eve (Euro 70.00)
- Enjoy an evening at Nouvelle Eve, one of the top cabaret shows in Paris. Situated near Montmartre, the show is an extravaganza of dancing girls, exquisite costumes and comedy acts. Your visit includes half a bottle of champagne and one of the most dazzling 'French Can Can' dances around. A truly French evening that is unforgettable!
- An Evening at Auberge de la Bonne Franquette (Euro 34.00)
- Tonight's traditional Restaurant, located in Montmartre's artist's quarter, is the perfect place to tempt your taste buds with French cuisine and get to know your fellow travellers. A three course meal with local wine and a great atmosphere means this will be an evening to remember.
Florence
- Souvenir Group Photo (Euro 11.50)
- A photo of you and all of your new friends is the perfect souvenir from your tour. The photo will be taken with a panorama of Florence in the background or in one of the city's famous piazzas.
- Tuscan Meal (Euro 27.00)
- Our restaurant this evening is located in the heart of Florence and provides the venue for our Tuscan feast. In true Italian style you'll dine on antipasta, pasta and a wonderfully aromatic main course - all washed down with some local Chianti wine.
- Space Electronic Disco (Euro 12.00)
- A chance to dance the night away at Florence's largest night-spot. Your first drink is included in the price and will get you started for an evening of fun. Enjoy the great music and maybe take the opportunity to show off your karaoke skill.
Rome
- Guided Imperial Tour (Euro 23.00 (10-19 people) / Euro 22.00 (20+ people))
- Join a local guide for an excursion back in time. You'll wander across the cobbled stones of the Roman Forum, marvel at the Colosseum and learn why the glory of Imperial Rome still stands out in the history of western culture. Price includes entry into Forum and Colosseum.
Pompeii
- Guided Tour of Ancient Pompeii (Euro 18.00 (20-34 people)/ Euro 17.00 (35+ people))
- The once thriving city of Pompeii lay buried for centuries under thick layers of ash which rained down after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. It was rediscovered in the 17th Century and two-thirds of the city has now been excavated. A local guide takes you to the important sites and explains the history of this fascinating city.
Corfu
- T-Shirts (From Euro 18.00 - 25.00)
- Be inspired by the Greek Gods, or better still let your imagination run wild and create your own group design! A terrific souvenir of your tour.
- Watersports (From Euro 18.00 - 45.00)
- Parasailing, water skiing and donut rides are just a few of the great activities available today at Dassia Beach.
- Car Hire (Euro 55.00-155.00 (cost per day depending on car))
- Why not hire a car and explore this beautiful island and it's beaches? Drive along the coastline, or head inland and discover mountain villages along the way. A day cruising around Corfu will definitely be one of the highlights of your time in Greece. Daily hire rates vary depending on the type/size of car your choose and will be explained by our local Contiki Representative.
- Dinner & Greek Dancing (Euro 32.00)
- Taverna, Retsina and Zorba - it'll certainly be all Greek to you by the end of the evening. Try tasty local specialities such as taramasalata, tzatziki and roast lamb on the spit. Enjoy a colourful and lively folklore show during which you're bound to learn a few Greek steps - all to the sound of bouzouki!
- George's Boat (Euro 30.00)
- Don't miss out on this superb full day trip - it's a great opportunity to get an off-shore view of Corfu's idyllic scenery. We sail up the East Coast, make frequent stops and also drop anchor at a lively seaside resort. A delicious lunch including fresh bread, dips and salads is included to give you energy for a day of fun.
Venice
- Gondola Ride (Euro 21.00)
- No trip to Venice is complete without a ride on the canals in a world-famous gondola. Take in the sights, savour every minute and treasure this truly memorable Venetian experience.
Vienna
- Old Vienna Schnaps Museum (Euro 6.00)
- Founded in 1875 by the Fischer family, this distillery still uses traditional methods when producing schnaps, brandies and liqueurs. The owners will explain the methods of schnaps making and show you the variety of ingredients they use (without giving away their secrets). Finish up by sampling their wonderful creations.
- Viennese Dinner (Euro 27.00)
- Venture into the Vienna woods for an evening of traditional food, including a Viennese schnitzel. Wash it down with a couple of drinks, live entertainment, dancing and memories that will last a lifetime.
- Mozart & Strauss Concert (Euro 27.00)
- Taste the culture of Austria with a truly memorable Mozart and Strauss concert in one of Vienna's most famous concert halls. The show is peformed by a small orchestra and singers in full costume and is the perfect introduction to this 'city of music'. An evening to remember!
Prague
- Lunchtime Cruise (Euro 24.00)
- See Prague from a different angle by joining us on a cruise along the River Vltava. You'll enjoy the scenery and a delicious buffet lunch with drinks.
- Guided Bike Tour in Prague (Euro 16.00)
- You'll do much more in 2.5 hours on a bike than you ever would on foot! Ride through the enchanting streets in the town centre, along the lovely Vltava river, and venture out into Prague's vast and uncharted parks. You'll hear great stories and have many photo opportunities - a fantastic way to explore Prague!
Munich
- Bavarian Beerhall (Euro 21.00)
- Join us in one of the oldest and most famous beerhalls in Munich, which was established in 1406, for a traditional evening of fun. Taste German specialties including roasted pork knuckle and beer, while watching dancers, yodellers and musicians in full costume. Prost!
Swiss Alps
- Jungfrau Mountain (SF 127.00)
- A fabulous trip on the highest cog railway in the world up the Jungfrau Mountain, which rises to 4,158m (13,600ft). Travel through 7kms (4.2 miles) of tunnel and stop for grand views from the plate glass windows - literally in the North Face of the Eiger Mountain. The journey ends at Jungfraujoch - 3,454m (11,300ft) above sea level with impressive views from the highest railway station and post office in the world! Whatever the time of year, the scenery is fabulous and there's even the opportunity to ski (at a small charge and weather permitting).
St. Goar
- Wine Tasting (Euro 8.00)
- A chance to sample and learn about some of the most famous wines of the Rhine region of Germany. There's also the opportunity to purchase some of your favourites! Don't leave your tasting glass behind - it's yours to keep.
Amsterdam
- Canal Bike Tour (Euro 12.50)
- There's no better introduction to this beautiful 17th century city than a fun canal ride. Our four-seater pedal boats follow a picturesque route past pretty canal houses, the Amstel Locks, and the famous Skinny Bridge, and is the perfect way to start your day of sightseeing.
- Evening Canal Cruise (Euro 19.50)
- A cruise on Amsterdam's world-famous canals is the perfect way to celebrate your final evening on tour. You'll pass many famous sights including Dutch gabled houses, the Anne Frank house, churches and the Red Light District. Your cruise includes commentary, a couple of drinks and snacks.
- Sea Palace Restaurant (Euro 30.00)
- This unique floating restaurant is built in the typical pagoda style of Chinese palaces. Located in the heart of Amsterdam it's the perfect place for you to join us for a typical Dutch 'rice table' which consists of a variety of main dishes accompanied with rice.
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Recent Tips
If you are doing a time out tour (staying in hotels), a travel iron/hairdryer will come in handy as many european hotels do not provide these facilities.
Vicki - Contiki Staff, EuropeDo not travel with ONLY a credit card and/or debit card. Why? Cards can become demagnetized or lost….you should have some cash or traveler's checks to fall back on in case of an unfortunate inconvenience involving your plastic.
Drew Walker
Article on Security - North America
I had trash bag, the bigger ones, and used them to separate my dirty clothes from my clean clothes in my suitcase...
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