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European Contrasts | Start London | Summer | 2026

This tour has other variations available

Everyday Price From

$6,071

$7,589

27 days

No Countries

Overview

So, fancy the scenic views of The Swiss Alps, the Croatian Riviera & Austria? What about roaming cities like Prague, Rome and Paris? With this trip you will leave no path untrodden visiting 10 countries in less than a month.

Locations Visited

London, Dover, Calais, Paris, Fontainebleau, Beaujolais Wine Region, Swiss Alps, Venice, Pisa, Florence, Rome, Perugia, Ancona, Overnight Adriatic Ferry, Split, Croatian Riviera, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Ljubljana, Hopfgarten im Brixental, Munich, Dachau, Regensburg, Prague, Dresden, Berlin, Amsterdam

Countries Visited

England, France, Switzerland, Italy, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Germany, Czech Republic, Netherlands

Travel Style

For 18 - 35 year olds

Accommodations

26 nights included

Age Requirements

Travel experiences for 18-35 year olds

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Itinerary

COLLAPSE ALL EXPAND ALL

Day 1

London to Paris

Welcome to the first day of the best trip of your life - we're calling it early! After a few pleasantries in London we'll get the show on the road with Paris in our sights. 

A few hours in and your jaws are on the floor already. These chalk cliffs that edge the English coastline are known as the White Cliffs of Dover, the first of many natural beauties we'll see on our trip.

After we ferry across the English Channel for France we'll arrive in Calais, where we will take in the history of World War I battlefields in the Valley of the Somme. 

Kicking off night one, we arrive in none other than the lust-worthy Paris! It's straight down to business with a tour of the city lit up by the lights of night. 

  • Accommodation

    Generator (or similar)


  • Meals

    Dinner

Highlights

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Marvel at the White Cliffs of Dover

See the iconic chalk-white coastline. So special that it’s had songs dedicated to it.

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Take a Tour of 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.

Today's the day to stroll the beautiful streets of Paris, with plenty of time to lust over designer haute couture or French vintage stores, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral, order coffee and crêpes, or get artsy at the many museums of the Louvre. Tonight, foodies will have the chance to eat a Parisian feast in Montmartre, surrounded by cobbled lanes, village-esque cafes, street artists and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Otherwise, this is your night to sign up for an iconic Parisian cabaret show. Either option will give you the perfect way to make it one to remember!

  • Accommodation

    Generator (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Just before you get too comfortable in that beret and striped shirt combo, we're dragging you away in search of vineyards and a very special château.

With its medieval stature and grand surrounding ponds, Château Fontainebleau will take your breath away. We'll amble around the gardens then recommence our scenic journey to Beaujolais.

Rolling into the Beaujolais region of France amidst vineyards, we'll arrive at Contiki’s very own 16th century château. This might just be our most decadent accommodation yet, complete with newly-renovated bedrooms & bathrooms, an on-site nightclub, artwork in every room, a games room, and a powder room for makeup and hair. And we haven't even shown you the pool or the gardens yet! Tonight we'll start off with an included dinner and wine tasting here at the château, because, when in France....

  • Accommodation

    Château de Cruix (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

Highlights

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Taste Wine at the Château

Be a VIP at the epic Contiki Château and fill up on a banquet of classic French dishes and wines. Ooh la la! 

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Marvel at Château de Fontainebleau

There’s your everyday châteaux and then there’s Château de Fontainebleau. The medieval palace was once home to Napoleon. And it’s another level of luxe. 

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Stay at The Château by Contiki

Set within the rolling hills of the Beaujolais wine region, the legendary Contiki Château special stay has been wowing travellers for decades. From the luxe bar to the elegant new bedrooms, our Château is the perfect backdrop to long summer days lounging by the pool, capped off with French feasts, local wine and dancing the night away in ‘La Cave.’

Pinch yourself, this is another day at the Château & another chance to live your best French countryside life with a full day here in Beaujolais. Relax in the courtyard with a coffee & croissant or loll about poolside in our castle-like setting. Our highlight today is a picnic in the picturesque gardens. Cue panoramic views & red wine.

  • Accommodation

    Château de Cruix (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Picnic Lunch

    Dinner

Highlights

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Enjoy a Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a French-style picnic while admiring the gorgeous Beaujolais countryside.

It's time to say 'au revoir' to our time in France but not before sunrise yoga on the sprawling lawn of the Château's gardens. We'll never forget you, land of baguettes and wine, but Switzerland is calling us. Back on our coach we'll cruise out of Beaujolais, passing Lake Geneva as we climb onwards and upwards toward the Swiss Alps.

With magical views unfolding outside our windows, we’ll arrive in the picture perfect setting of the Swiss Alps. Home for the next 2 nights, we’ll start off with a free evening and enjoy a traditional cheese fondue.

  • Accommodation

    Schützenbach (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

Highlights

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Take a Guided Yoga Session on the Château Lawns

Clear out the cobwebs and get in touch with you zen side with a guided yoga session on the sweeping lawns of the château.

Today you’re free to explore this classic European adventure town. If you're feeling extra adventurous, you also have the option to discover the Jungfrau mountain.

  • Accommodation

    Schützenbach (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

Out with the altitude, in with sun-kissed streets and iconic waterways. Today we’re moving on to the passionate lands of Italy, bound for Venice.

Ah, Venice! Fresh pasta, lilting accents & romantic architecture - we've arrived in one of Italy's most famous cities. Tonight we'll relax here with free time to find some dinner, knowing we have all day tomorrow to cruise canals & explore picturesque cobbled streets.

  • Accommodation

    Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Buongiorno! Venice is ours for a full and glorious Italian day. We'll start exploring The Floating City by jumping aboard our own private motoscafo boat and cruising the canals en route to the historical heart of the city. Here we'll take selfies at the Bridge of Sighs, see the Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Square. Next, you have the chance to take a traditional gondola ride, or just explore these famous streets on your own. Tonight, you can choose to sign up for a city exploration combined with food in a Traditional Tastes of Venice walking tour.

  • Accommodation

    Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Cruise on a Motoscafo to Venice

Speed across the lagoon to the aqueous island of Venice.

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See canals and gondolas

Life’s all about the waterways here; there’s not an Uber in sight! Get some classic pics of the famous gondola boats.

Farewell floating city, but Italy, we're not done with you yet, our next destination Florence is just around the corner.  

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.

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is more proof that Italy has so many great places packed into one small region. Here you’ll be free to drift along the River Arno, get into the Tuscan vibes with a drop of Chianti wine, visit the markets and taste the local gelato, and admire the beauty of the city and its magnificent Duomo Cathedral. Take it all in! Tonight you’ll have the chance to sign up for a delicious Tuscan dinner, visit the historic Red Garter bar or enjoy a free evening.

  • Accommodation

    Firenze Certosa Village (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Visit Pisa (for that Epic Selfie)

Your ultimate chance to ‘hold the tower up’ as you pose for that classic Insta snap. 

Ready for even more of Italy? The eternal city of Rome awaits...

The evening will really take it up to high key as we uncover Italian icons in the country's capital of Rome. With a city tour on arrival, we'll get a glimpse of Rome's glory by night, ready to be fully unveiled tomorrow. Gelato, pizza and ancient monuments, we're here for it all.

  • Accommodation

    Jo&Joe Roma (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Tour Rome on Foot

Stroll around the Italian capital, ticking off some sights on your bucket list! 

Rise and shine, Rome awaits us! Today will be a whirlwind of Roman architecture and bucket list sights as we uncover all of Rome’s key features. There’s also the option to head back in time and discover Rome of the Emperors and Gladiators.

  • Accommodation

    Jo&Joe Roma (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Full of gelato and memories, we’ll cast our eyes over Rome one more time this morning before we hit the road, bound for new adventures.

Perugia is a little hidden gem of Italy, where medieval vibes meet lively piazzas, making it the perfect spot to sip espresso, enjoy epic views, and embrace the dolce vita!

Arriving at Ancona port, we'll get ready for our overnight sail to Croatia.

We'll hop aboard our Overnight Adriatic Ferry and set sail. Let yourself be rocked to sleep as we cruise over the Adriatic Sea to Split.

  • Accommodation

    Overnight Ferry


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Last night we fell asleep in Italy, this morning we wake up in Croatia. How magical is Europe?

Landing in the atmospheric port town of Split, we’ll have some free time to soak up the Roman heritage of Diocletian's Palace, revel in Game of Thrones' filming locations or indulge in some local street food before jumping on the coach, bound for the Riviera.

Welcome to the Croatian Riviera, where we’ll be greeted by the rugged Biokovo mountains, a nature reserve with golden eagles, and a long stretch of beach ready to be enjoyed. And then, you can choose to join us for some dinner at a traditional Dalmatian tavern. With 3 nights here, it’s like having a holiday within a holiday. 

  • Accommodation

    Apartments Medena (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

With no agenda today other than to live your best beach life, the Croatian Riviera awaits! The beaches, seafront promenade and nightlife are calling your name, with paddle boats for hire, a cobbled main square to stroll around, and the turquoise waters of the Adriatic ready for diving into.

  • Accommodation

    Apartments Medena (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

A new day, a new beach spot to laze about in. You also have food markets to explore, cafes to sit in, ice cream parlours to visit, and day trips to sign up to - the choice is yours.

  • Accommodation

    Apartments Medena (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Relaxed and sun-kissed after our time on the Riviera, we’re ready to see more of Croatia - and knowing that UNESCO-heritage listed Plitvice Lakes is ahead of us makes leaving a lot easier.

 

Plitvice

Arriving at the mesmerising teal-blue waters of Plitviče, you’ll have the chance to tread the wooden boardwalks and discover the cascading pools of this breath-taking natural wonder. Why this place is not famous world over as one of the prettiest places in Europe, we have no idea! We'll enjoy an included dinner together this evening at our accommodation on the edge of the National Park.

  • Accommodation

    Hotel Big House Plitvika Jezera (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

Highlights

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Explore Plitvice National Park

Turquoise lakes. Sparkling waterfalls. Lush green forests. You’ll never want to leave this little slice of heaven. 

Bidding farewell to Plitviče and Croatia today, the enchanting allure of Slovenia lies ahead as we make our way to the capital city of Ljubljana.

Although you might find nods to neighbouring countries, a distinct identity within Slovenian culture has evolved from the melody of influences surrounding it. After our orientation of the city, you’ll have the chance to explore the bohemian art district of Metelkova Mesto or sit by one of Ljubljana’s atmospheric watercourses.

  • Accommodation

    Ljubljana Resort (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Get to know 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.

So long Ljubljana, your unique charm will remain in our hearts forever. Hitting the road, we’ll journey north-west and cross-country into Austria.

Late this afternoon we arrive in Hopfgarten and will be welcomed with open arms to Contiki's very own Austrian Gasthof (guesthouse). Tonight is a welcome evening which means a traditional Austrian meal lovingly prepared for us by our on-site Contiki chefs, and tomorrow we'll get into the swing of things with more of the adventure activities this town is famous for.

  • Accommodation

    Contiki Haus Schoneck (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

Highlights

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Home Cooked Dinner

Enjoy a home cooked dinner, prepared fresh on site by our in house Kitchen Team.

Wake up, peel open your curtains, and take in the magnificence of your view. If you're feeling lively you can jump onto a bike tour through green mountains and waterfalls. If you're feeling really lively you can go tandem paragliding. Not so lively? Stroll around and take in the incredible setting; drink endless hot chocolate, go up a mountain in a gondola or relax at our Gasthof.

  • Accommodation

    Contiki Haus Schoneck (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

Highlights

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Enjoy Another Home Cooked Dinner

Tuck into a wholesome feast, prepared fresh on site by our in-house Kitchen Team.

This morning you have the chance to sign up for some wild water sports - whitewater rafting - before we leave the breath-taking Austrian Tyrol. Then it’s time to say ‘adieu’ as we head on to the German city of Munich - where lederhosen, dirndls, steins of beer and gingerbread-style buildings await.

"Prost!”. Here in Munich, the home of Oktoberfest, you’ll have the chance to sign up for an optional guided bike ride with Mike’s Bikes and visit the city’s best spots. Otherwise you're free to roam the old town, buy yourself a pair or lederhosen or a traditional dirndl, or amuse yourself watching the antics of mechanical figurines in the city's famous Glockenspiel. Making the most of our time in Munich this evening, we'll get introduced to 800 years of history at a traditional Bavarian beer hall.

  • Accommodation

    Ramada Encore by Wyndham Munich Messe (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Clink your Steins at a Beer Hall

We'll make a stop at a traditional Bavarian ‘Bier Halle’. Grab your Contiki crew and a beer. Prost!

Today it’s goodbye Germany, hello Czech. But first, we have an important stop to make.

Journeying out of Munich, we’ll make a stop at Dachau for a sobering visit to the Dachau concentration camp memorial. You'll be able to spend some time here to learn and reflect, before we head on to Prague.

Lunch time! After a brief stopover in this old town, we'll hit the road once again.

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 & Queens and gothic history.

  • Accommodation

    Plus Prague (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Visit Dachau Concentration Camp

Take a somber but impactful visit to the site of a World War II concentration camp in Munich. 

Wake up and explore a UNESCO World Heritage city that’s begging you to come out to play. Roam pretty lanes and romantic courtyards, admiring the colourful baroque buildings and Gothic churches. Or shop for traditional bohemian treasures. Don't miss our optional 'Hidden Prague' adventure, where a local guide will show us the city's best kept secrets.

  • Accommodation

    Plus Prague (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Pack your bags and say your sincere thanks to the Czech Republic for being such a lovely host. As promised, we're heading back to Germany for a bout in Berlin. 

A drive from Prague to Berlin wouldn’t be complete without stopping in Dresden. Destroyed in World War II, the rebuilt town is now a symbol of resilience, boasting the born-again beauty of the Opera house, the domed Frauenkirche, & the Royal Residence.

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 kick it off with a tour to learn about its troubled but fascinating past. Once we've gotten acquainted with the key sites, we’ll enjoy an included dinner together, ready for more exploring tomorrow.

  • Accommodation

    Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

Highlights

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Tour Berlin

Get your culture on. It’s time to see Tiergarten, Alexanderplatz, the Russian War Memorial, Brandenburg Gate and the historic Reichstag building. 

Today you'll have the chance to really uncover Berlin. You can opt to take a historical walking tour, including a visit to the site of Hitler's bunker. Otherwise, you're free to explore all the obscurities tucked away off the main street of Unter Den Linden, see the Brandenburg gate, discover nature at the Lustgarten, or catch the U-bahn to one of Berlin's quirky neighbourhoods. Or, if you skipped the historical walking tour this morning, there'll be the chance to join an alternative walking tour of the city, showing you a side of Berlin not often seen by tourists. And if you're looking for a night out, now is the perfect time to scope out one of those underground raves or cocktail-lounge-in-the-basement scenarios that Berlin is famous for.

  • Accommodation

    Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

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Browse East Side Gallery

Heads up culture vultures. Here’s your chance to check out the longest open-air gallery in the world.

We’ll journey out of Germany today and travel through the gloriously flat Netherlands with Amsterdam in our sights. 

We'll enjoy an included dinner in Amsterdam this evening. Next on the agenda tonight, opt to take the A'DAM lookout swing, an incredible observation deck with unrivalled panoramas of the twisting canals below. Then you're free to explore this city with a peek of the canals, bicycles & 17th century gable houses lit up by night, plus plenty of nightlife to keep you going until the early hours.

  • Accommodation

    Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

    Dinner

It's our last full day on trip & our last night to party up a storm with the squad. Use the day to explore quirky museums & sample the endless array of cuisines this city has on offer. Tonight, choose to indulge in a traditional Dutch meal on a local cheese making farm where you will learn the art of the clog and learn a local game along the way.

  • Accommodation

    Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)


  • Meals

    Breakfast

It’s been one heck of a trip, but all good things must come to an end. Whether you’re ending the trip in Amsterdam or returning to London, we’ll say our goodbyes and swap deets. New adventures lie ahead!

This afternoon we cross from France to England and then back to London-town, where you'll be left to start dreaming up your next big adventure.

  • Meals

    Breakfast

Highlights

FAQs

  • You’ll need Essential Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

    From January 8, 2025, UK law means that if you’re entering/transiting through border control in 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.

  • 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.

  • You’ll have comfy Airline Style Seating (AKA Airline Type Seating) on the Adriatic Ferries for our trips from Italy to Croatia. Think: all the awesome flight amenities, but with added perks – like the freedom to roam around in shared areas & chat with your Contiki fam. Plus, our crew will be there do make you’re fully equipped with entertainment on your voyage.

  • You'll stay in a Twin share room (meaning you'll be paired with a fellow traveller of the same gender, and will have two separate beds). If you're booking your trip with a friend/travel companion - just let us know, so we can join your bookings and ensure you share a room. Need a lil' more privacy? You're welcome to opt for a single supplement if you like.

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European Contrasts | Start London | Summer | 2026

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Terms & Conditions

Trip Notes:

  • Please note that airfare to and from your start/end destinations are not included in the cost of your trip.
  • Internal flights as specified on individual trip itineraries are included as part of the trip price.
  • Travel to Europe from Canada often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange flights to arrive on or before Day 1 of your itinerary start date.
  • Call 1-844-528-7316 for great deals from Canada to & from all start/end cities for your selected itinerary.

 

Terms & Conditions:

  • ​Prices listed are land only & do not include airfare to and from the start/end of the trip.
  • Prices listed are per person in CAD, based on twin or multi-share. If you’re travelling solo, we can pair you with a same-sex roommate at no extra cost or you can upgrade to a single for an additional cost, based on availability.
  • For departure points and stay longer accommodation options call 1-844-528-7316 for more details.
  • ​​'Exclusive Costco Member Price' is available after member log in. 
  • Last Minute Deals are available on select departures only and only available to travellers departing from Canada; not combinable with any other promotional offers; full payment due at time of booking. 
  • All discounts are for new bookings only, subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Call or request a quote for complete details.
  • ​​​Trip prices and information are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation - please confirm all details at time of quote and booking.
  • For full details, please refer to our Terms & Conditions or FAQs page.

Other conditions may apply. TICO #2058256 #2759979