European Discovery | Start London | Winter | 2024/2025
European Discovery | Start London | Winter | 2024/2025
European Discovery | Start London | Winter | 2024/2025
12 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom
Visiting: Amsterdam, Rhine Valley, Munich, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Florence, Lucerne, Paris, London
Tour operator:
Tour code:
WWHWA19
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "European Discovery | Start London | Winter | 2024/2025" tour, exploring the rich tapestry of Europe across eight countries. Begin in London, marvel at the White Cliffs of Dover, and cruise Amsterdam's canals. Discover Munich's Bavarian charm, savor wine in Germany's Rhine Valley, and explore the Vatican City in Rome. Experience the artistry of Florence, the majesty of the Swiss Alps, and the romance of Paris by night. Enjoy guided tours, unique experiences like a private canal ride in Venice, and indulge in local cuisines. Travel comfortably in a modern coach, staying in a mix of hotels and hostels. This tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: London To Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam
Accommodation Name: Ibis Schiphol Amsterdam Airport (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 - 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 glory
Day 2: Amsterdam To Rhine Valley
Location: 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 Via Dinkelsbühl
Location: Munich
Accommodation Name: Wyndham Garden Munich Messe (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Too much grape juice last night? Not to worry, the prospect of this Bavarian hidden gem should lift your spirits as we travel south & swap wine culture for beer. Quintessential German experiences don't get much better than visiting this charming medieval town. We'll stroll the cobblestoned streets, checking out vibrant market squares and picturesque half-timbered houses along the way. 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
Location: 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. After crossing through the Bavarian Alps, it's 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 for the afternoon. Tonight, you can opt for a traditional Tyrolean show -Â don't forget to try a piece of delicious Austrian strudel and some local schnaps!
Day 5: Innsbruck To Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation Name: Venice Palace (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up with the gorgeous snow capped Alps as your backdrop 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 & 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 Via Baschi
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: BB Roma Tuscolana (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
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. But first, we have an epic, included MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience to enjoy. Casale Polegri is set within the gorgeous town of Baschi, where we'll meet the Polegri family. These guys have run their vineyard and olive orchard for generations, and after giving us the grand tour, will serve us lunch under the Veranda. As we overlook the Tiber Valley, enjoying some of the most authentic Italian food we've ever tasted (topped off with the Polegri's very own wine, naturally), we might reflect that we've never had it so good. It's the kind of local travel experience you don't encounter every day (you're welcome). 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
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: BB Roma Tuscolana (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rome wasn't built in a day - so get up and get going early to make the most of this ancient city. Hit the streets for your own discoveries. Learn a thing or two as you pass the Colosseum, throw coins in fountains and sip espresso in a pretty street watching Italian life float by.
Day 8: Rome To Florence
Location: 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. 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
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Luzern City (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
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Ibis Paris Porte D'Orleans Hotel (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. Lamp-lit bridges, a sparkling Eiffel Tower, & evening coffee haunts, tonight we fall in love with everything Paris. Our Trip Manager fills us in on the city's secrets, then to celebrate our first night in the city, we'll head up the Montparnasse Tower.
Day 11: Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Ibis Paris Porte D'Orleans Hotel (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
Location: 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, and Ibis Paris Porte D'Italie.
-
Meals
Enjoy included meals across different locations, ensuring a taste of local cuisine.
-
Transportation
Travel comfortably between cities and attractions in a modern, air-conditioned coach.
-
Guided Tours
Benefit from guided walking tours in major cities like Florence, Rome, and Paris, offering deep dives into their rich histories and cultures.
-
Special Experiences
Unique experiences 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, giving you the flexibility to explore local cuisine on your own.
-
Optional Activities
Any optional activities mentioned, such as guided tours of the Vatican Museums, are not included in the tour price.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and additional snacks or drinks are not included.
-
Airport Transfers
Airport transfers are not included, please make your own way to the starting hotel and from the ending hotel.
Dining Summary
4 Dinner (D)11 Breakfast (B)1 Lunch (L)
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: What currency do I need? For this trip, you’ll need just three currencies - the British Pound, Swiss Franc and Euro.London: How do I know when to book tickets for non-included attractions in Amsterdam? If you're travelling before March 2025, this trip spends 1 night in Amsterdam. You will have free time in the morning of day 2 until 12pm, during which time you can book activities. After this time, we will head off to the Rhine Valley.From March 2025, this trip will spend 2 nights in Amsterdam and you will have free time in the afternoon of day 2 from 12pm - 3pm, during which time you can book activities. Of course, you can book other times during this day, but it might mean you miss out on other included activities or a coach transfer to the accommodation!
Included Experience
Amsterdam: Best way to break the ice? By breaking bread of course. You and your new besties can bond over dinner before heading out to explore.Lorelei: It’s the stuff of legends. Literally. A singing mermaid named Lorelei is said to sit on the rock, enchanting fishermen before luring them to their demise. Eek!Dinkelsbuhl: Seatbelts on! Today we're driving along 'Romantische Stra??e' AKA Germany's most scenic route, winding through picturesque medieval towns, fairy-tale castles, and breathtaking landscapes.Innsbruck: Snow-capped peaks. Pristine air. Chocolate-box buildings. Innsbruck is the answer to all of your Alpine travel wishes.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.Florence: See the Duomo, Basilica Santa Croce, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery & Piazza della Signoria on a locally guided walking tour of Florence.Lucerne: Check out the Wooden Chapel Bridge and the giant sandstone Lion Monument.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: Climb to the 56th floor of the Montparnasse Tower for an unbeatable vista of the ‘City of Light’.Paris: Your chance to learn the art of fragrance at a Parisian perfume house. You know it makes scents! (soz).Rome: Stroll around the Italian capital, ticking off some sights on your bucket list!Baschi: We'll head to the rocky (but so picturesque) village of Baschi to visit Casale Polegri. Stroll around the vineyards and olive orchards on a short tour of the azienda agricola. We'll learn about the farming techniques used by the Polegri Family to harvest their fresh plants and fruit. We'll end the afternoon with a crunchy bruschetta topped with homemade extra virgin olive oil, focaccia bread with homegrown rosemary and vegetables. And of course, some risotto or pasta. All of this with a glass of their homemade wine and dessert. Happy tummy, happy life!
Mode of Transport
Travel comfortably between cities and attractions in a modern, air-conditioned coach.
Accommodation
Stay in a mix of hotels and hostels in various cities throughout the tour, including Ibis Budget Amsterdam City South, Hotel Montag Sankt Goar, and Ibis Paris Porte D'Italie.
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will stay in a mix of hotels and hostels in various cities throughout the tour, including Ibis Budget Amsterdam City South, Hotel Montag Sankt Goar, and Ibis Paris Porte D'Italie.
-
Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes meals across different locations, allowing you to enjoy a taste of local cuisine. However, not all meals are covered, giving you the flexibility to explore local cuisine on your own.
-
What type of transportation is provided during the tour?
Transportation between cities and attractions is provided in a modern, air-conditioned coach, ensuring comfortable travel throughout the tour.
-
Are guided tours included in the itinerary?
Yes, the tour includes guided walking tours in major cities like Florence, Rome, and Paris, offering deep dives into their rich histories and cultures.
-
What special experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes unique experiences 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.
-
Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
Travel insurance is not included in the tour package and is recommended for all travelers.
-
Are airport transfers included in the tour?
No, airport transfers are not included. You will need to make your own way to the starting hotel and from the ending hotel.
-
What optional activities are available during the tour?
Optional activities such as guided tours of the Vatican Museums are available but are not included in the tour price.
-
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
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.1 Select your preferred date
Sunday - Thursday
Dec 22, 2024 - Jan 02, 2025Sunday - Thursday
Dec 29, 2024 - Jan 09, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Jan 07, 2025 - Jan 18, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Jan 21, 2025 - Feb 01, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Feb 04, 2025 - Feb 15, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Feb 18, 2025 - Mar 01, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Mar 04, 2025 - Mar 15, 2025Thursday - Monday
Oct 09, 2025 - Oct 20, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Nov 04, 2025 - Nov 15, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Nov 18, 2025 - Nov 29, 2025Saturday - Wednesday
Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 10, 2025Friday - Tuesday
Dec 05, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Dec 09, 2025 - Dec 20, 2025Sunday - Thursday
Dec 21, 2025 - Jan 01, 2026Tuesday - Saturday
Dec 30, 2025 - Jan 10, 2026Tuesday - Saturday
Jan 13, 2026 - Jan 24, 2026Tuesday - Saturday
Feb 03, 2026 - Feb 14, 2026Tuesday - Saturday
Feb 24, 2026 - Mar 07, 2026What are travellers saying about Tourhub
Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions
Why book with tourhub?
Safe & Secure
Your money is held in a dedicated client account until you travel.
100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.
The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.
Guaranteed Best Value
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.
(Operator terms may apply)
Expert Knowledge
Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.
Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.
Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.
Trusted Service
Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.
Don't just take our word for it...
"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."