Photo: Contiki
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Planning a European adventure with Contiki? With so many epic experiences to choose from – think foodie feasts, wildlife encounters, and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, it’s hard to know where to start. So, we went straight to the expert: our European Operations Director, Tasha Hayes and our Product Development Manager, Jess Short, who gave us the inside scoop on the experiences our travellers can’t stop raving about. Here they are:
Experiences our travellers love (and you will too!)
1. Whitewater rafting in the Austrian Alps
DO IT ON: Active Alps
Hold on tight! If you’re craving a bit of adventure on the Austrian Alps, this wild ride is exactly what you need. This Class III whitewater rafting experience will have you paddling through fast rapids and stunning scenery. You’ll be suited up, briefed by expert guides, and ready to tackle the river in no time. The best part? The neverending views of all of the picture-perfect peaks. Pretty darn unforgettable.
Image source:Contiki
2. Canyon swing in Interlaken, Switzerland
DO IT ON: Active Swiss Alps
Alpine adventures are already pretty epic. But this canyon swing is a crowd favourite for a reason. You can take a leap off a cliff (literally) in Interlaken – you’ll strap in and dive into the canyon, and you best believe you’ll feel the rush as you swing over the lush valley below. So – jaw-dropping views, plus adrenaline-rushes, plus an awesome group of friends. You’ll be talking about this jump for years, trust me.
3. Mike’s bike tour in Munich
DO IT ON: European Discovery
This special bike tour in Munich will have you pedalling like a local. You’ll explore the city’s famous sights, from historical landmarks to picturesque parks, all while your guide spills the fascinating stories behind them. It’s a fun, easygoing ride with great company, and you’ll even make a stop at a beer garden or two (when in Germany, right??). It’s perfect if you want to experience Munich from the saddle, all while enjoying some authentic Bavarian vibes.
Image source:Contiki
4. Farmer’s dinner in Salzburg, Austria
DO IT ON: European Encounter
This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® dinner experience will give you a taste of local life and traditional food in the Austrian Alps. You’ll dine with a local farming family and indulge in a hearty meal of pork ribs, potatoes, and veggies (or a veggie alternative if wanted). And of course, you can’t leave without sampling some homemade schnaps! It’s authentic, it’s local, and it’s Austria at its finest.
5. Tapas and traditional Flamenco in Granada, Spain
DO IT ON: Best of Spain
Nestled in the hills of gorgeous Granada, you can experience an intimate flamenco show in a cave (yes, in a cave!), surrounded by the passionate expert dancers and soul-stirring guitar of Spain. It’s fiery, it’s intense, and it’ll leave you mesmerised. Oh, and pair that with a delicious tapas feast, and you’ve got the ultimate Spanish night out. It doesn’t get more authentic than this.
Image source:Contiki
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences
ICYMI, our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences aren’t just epic activities – they’re experiences with a purpose. Whether it’s giving back to the planet, supporting local communities, or protecting wildlife, these activities let you have an unforgettable time and make a real impact. Think cultural deep dives, sustainable travel, and yes, encounters with some seriously adorable animals.
1. Dine with locals in Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
DO IT ON: Balkans Discovery
The Bosnian people are famous for their hospitality, and there’s no better way to experience it firsthand than with a dinner of traditional family recipes passed down through generations. From the delicious food to the flowing wine, this is a night where good conversation and genuine warmth will make you feel like you’ve known these folks forever. A truly local, unforgettable experience!
Image source:ADEV / unsplash
2. Rhine Valley wine tasting, Germany
DO IT ON: European Horizon
Wine lovers, prepare to be spoiled in the historic Rhine Valley! In a candle-lit underground cellar, you’ll sip on local Rieslings and exclusive ice wines while learning all about the region’s proud winemaking tradition. It’s the perfect setting to unwind and indulge in the finer things – the smooth wine, the rich history, and the cool atmosphere of the cellar. Zum Wohl to that. Best part? You get to keep your wine-tasting glass as a cute souvenir!
3. Sheepdog experience in Londonderry/Derry, Northern Ireland
DO IT ON: Ireland in a Week
An experience where you’ll meet a 4th-Gen shepherd? And see his farm and meet sheepdogs? Yup. Jamese will show you the ropes of farm life, you’ll see amazing border collies in action, learn the art of sheep shearing, and see what rural Northern Ireland is all about. After all that action, enjoy a hearty homemade lunch made with the freshest ingredients straight from the farm. It’s a full day of fun, learning, and great food.
Image source:Contiki
4. Cheese and clogs farm dinner, the Netherlands
DO IT ON: European Escapade
Wanna experience the best of Dutch farm life? This dinner at Irene Hoeve Farm is what you need. It’s a family-owned farm that serves up fresh, seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and dairy products. And of course, cheese has its own history here in the Netherlands. With a rich history in cheese and clogs, the farm offers a truly authentic taste of the region, and you’ll have a chance to try their famous cheeses paired perfectly with local wine. The perfect blend of tradition, flavour, and countryside charm!
5. Discover Sámi culture and meet reindeer, Norway
DO IT ON: Norway Fjords and Northern Lights
If you wanna get up close with one of Europe’s oldest Indigenous communities – here’s your chance. You’ll meet the Sámi reindeer herders, hear their stories, and learn about their deep connection to nature. AND you’ll get to feed the reindeer (yes, they’re just as cute as you’d hope). What next? A traditional Sámi dinner of reindeer stew. It’s more than just an experience – it’s a chance to connect with a way of life that’s been thriving for generations.
Image source:Contiki
Foodie faves
1. De Bekeerde Suster, the Netherlands
DO IT ON: European Escapade
Step into the past at De Bekeerde Suster, where nuns once brewed beer like total legends. This beautiful spot in Amsterdam (originally part of the Bethaniën Monastery), keeps their legacy alive. Except now, you also get to enjoy the results! The copper pot on display is a nod to its brewing history, while the modern vibe inside makes it the perfect place to grab a drink and a bite. A little bit of history, a lot of good beer. Sound like a win?
2. Via Amsterdam, the Netherlands
DO IT ON: European Highlights
Staying at Via Amsterdam? Expect laid-back vibes, comfy digs, and food that hits the spot. You’ll have in-house chefs whip up a rotating menu of hearty, flavour-packed meals – perfect fuel before you head back out to explore. It might not be Michelin level but it’s quick, tasty, and exactly what you need before another night of adventure. And I guess that’s what people love about it.
Image source:Contiki
3. Le Rossetti, France
DO IT ON: European Quest
Tucked in the heart of Nice’s old town, Le Rossetti is the kind of place that makes you want to linger over every bite. Whether you’re tucking into a classic Daube of beef, veggie pasta, or grilled chicken with peppers, the flavours are as rich as the Riviera itself. Fries are on the table too, desserts are non-negotiable (ice cream or tiramisu, anyone?), and the whole experience just feels right.
Special stays
Food is great. But what about the places where you rest your travel-tired limbs after a wonderfully long day of travel? Some stays on your Contiki aren’t just a hotel or hostel – they’re truly special. And that’s why we call them Special Stays. From luxury lodges to stunning castles, our Special Stays are a travel experience all on their own.
1. Château de Cruix, France
Nothing like a lush exclusive property to spend your time on when in France’s Beaujolais wine region. Yep. Imagine your *perfect* wine and chill fantasy – palatial windows, lovely bedrooms, a pool table, fine wine, rolling hills in the backdrop, in-house chefs to cook up a delish French feast. All of this and a pool to lounge by on a long summer day in the Contiki Chateau? Yeeees please.
Image source:Contiki
2. Midgard Base Camp, Iceland
Any stay that gives you direct access to the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights is already pretty special. But nothing really beats a rooftop hot tub and sauna, plus epic views of Eyjafjallajökull icecap and volcano. And that is exactly what you get on our Iceland trip, at this small town called Hvolsvöllur. Oh, and not to mention, there are chefs to serve up the most delicious food too. It really puts in the ‘special’ in Special Stays, doesn’t it?
3. Haus Schöneck, Austria
Speaking of exclusive stays – how about a Contiki-exclusive ski and après paradise? Perched up in the cute lil Austrian Tyrol village of Hopfgarten is where you’ll find Haus Schöneck by Contiki. It’s not only next to one of the world’s largest ski regions – it’s also equipped with an on-site sauna, Schnaps bar, communal lounge area, and a shuttle to the main gondola. Plus, you can chow down on some warming locally sourced meals in the dining room after a good day of sliding down the slopes. How good does that sound?
Image source:Contiki
4. Torgåsgården, Sweden
Looking for a slice of Swedish magic? Then this cosy, family-run hostel (complete with huskies, a lake, and an actual sauna) on our winter version of the Scandinavia tour has you covered. Torgåsgården is run by Moa, Bjorn, their kids, and five very good dogs, it’s the kind of place where you can hike, bike, kayak, or just chill with a proper Swedish fika AKA coffee, cake and a whole lot of peace and quiet. Oh, and did we mention? It used to be an 1800s prayer house? Yep, it’s full of charm, good vibes, and all the wholesome Scandi feels.
Wanna know more about our Special Stays? Check out our best accommodations all over the world.
