European Adventurer | Start Paris | | 2024

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European Adventurer | Start Paris | | 2024



Tour Description:

Just how much of Europe can be conquered in just under 6 weeks? Pretty much all of it according to the European Adventurer. This trapeze through 16 countries will see you cross borders by ferry, picnic in French vineyards, visit crumbling heritage towns in Croatia & party in Amsterdam. Not a precious second will be wasted.

Map for European Adventurer | Start Paris | | 2024
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Dates & Pricing

Friday 10 May 24 — Saturday 15 Jun 24Starting at $6,609Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 24 May 24 — Saturday 29 Jun 24Starting at $7,457Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 31 May 24 — Saturday 06 Jul 24Starting at $7,064Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 07 Jun 24 — Saturday 13 Jul 24Starting at $7,457Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 14 Jun 24 — Saturday 20 Jul 24Starting at $7,122Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 21 Jun 24 — Saturday 27 Jul 24Starting at $7,541Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 28 Jun 24 — Saturday 03 Aug 24Starting at $7,263Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 19 Jul 24 — Saturday 24 Aug 24Starting at $7,646Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 02 Aug 24 — Saturday 07 Sep 24Starting at $8,070Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 16 Aug 24 — Saturday 21 Sep 24Starting at $7,766Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Check Mark Icon Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.


Destination & Sightseeing

Dining Summary
13 Dinner (D)
36 Breakfast (B)
1 Picnic Lunch (PL)

FAQs
London: For this trip, we recommend that you carry the British Pound, Euro, Bosnian mark, Albanian Lek, and the Swiss Franc. (It’s a coin collector's dream!)
London: Usually, 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.

Included Experience
Dover: See the iconic chalk-white coastline. So special that it’s had songs dedicated to it.
Paris: Take a dreamy stroll across the charming streets and famous spots in Paris. Bet this is what your insta-profile was craving!
Beaujolais: Be a VIP at the epic Contiki Château and fill up on a banquet of classic French dishes and wines. Ooh la la!
Beaujolais: Enjoy a French-style picnic while admiring the gorgeous Beaujolais countryside.
Beaujolais: Clear out the cobwebs and get in touch with you zen side with a guided yoga session on the sweeping lawns of the château.
Barcelona: We’ll check out the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s world-renowned masterpiece. Work began on the church in the 1880s and while it was technically never finished, it’s still a wonder to behold.
Barcelona: Combat boots at the ready, folks! Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas are so cool, you won’t know what to photograph first!
French Riviera: Glide through the winding coastal roads of the French Riviera with your Contiki crew.
Monaco City: Walk in the footsteps of Grace Kelly at the Royal Palace and see the Monte Carlo Casino (where the car park looks like a Fast & Furious set).
Verona: Ah! The sight of this famous balcony will turn even the most hardened cynic into a romantic soul.
Nice: Your chance to learn the art of fragrance at a French perfume house. You know it makes scents! (soz).
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.
Pisa: Your ultimate chance to ‘hold the tower up’ as you pose for that classic Insta snap.
Rome: Stroll around the Italian capital, ticking off some sights on your bucket list!
Amalfi Coast: Definitely one for the bucket list. Your chance to view one of Europe’s active volcanoes from a distance.
Athens: Take an orientation in this ancient metropolis of treasures, myths and legends. See the city’s past and present.
Athens: Walk in the footsteps of Gods and Goddesses, as you take a guided tour around the Ancient Greek monuments and explore the Parthenon temple.
Athens: Even if you’re not a sports nut, this is probably the most iconic Olympic stadium in the world and you won’t want to miss it.
Mykonos: Recharge your batteries by relaxing on these famous sands with 10 of your new BFFs.
Dubrovnik: Stroll through the UNESCO-listed old town with a local guide. And play a game of ‘spot the Game of Thrones film set’ as you go.
Sarajevo: See the sights of the Bosnian capital and get up to speed on 500 years of history, from the Ottomans to the present day.
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Turquoise lakes. Sparkling waterfalls. Lush green forests. You’ll never want to leave this little slice of heaven.
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.
Lake Bled: Take it easy with your new besties as you walk around the scenic lake, framed by the Julian Alps.
Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site: Take a somber but impactful visit to the site of a World War II concentration camp in Munich.
Edam: Explore all the windmills, canals and dikes on two wheels.

ITINERARY

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.  Touch down in Paris and settle into your digs before we devour a delicious dinner together. And then it's time to rev up for high-energy vibes - because we're exploring the most iconic Parisian hotspots!*Heads up, our Paris plans might shift during the Summer Olympics due to city restrictions, impacting our Illuminations Tour of the city along with other possible disruptions. We're on it, crafting alternative experiences for your safety and enjoyment. Your understanding means the world to us!

Paris
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. This is also your night to sign up for an iconic Parisian cabaret show.

Paris to Swiss Alps
Out with the city life, in with the fresh mountain air. On leaving Paris we’ll coast through the pretty wine producing region of Burgundy before crossing the border to Switzerland. With magical views unfolding outside our windows we'll find ourselves in Switzerland, ready for two nights at our accommodation in the heart of this traditional resort town. This place comes to life as the sun sets, so tonight we'll have a chance to check out the local nightlife and foodie scene, as well as load up on Swiss chocolate.

Swiss Alps
Open the window of your room and drink in the incredible view. Today you’re free to explore this classic European adventure town. Feeling extra adventurous? Today is your chance to ascend Jungfrau mountain, aka ‘the Top of the World’.

Swiss Alps to Beaujolais Wine Region via Geneva
It’s been sweet, but we’re swapping Switzerland back for France again today. There's just time for one last breath of fresh mountain air. A quick lunch break in the home of the UN's headquarters and a view of that oh so famous water fountain. Grab a bite to eat and a last mouthful of delish swiss chocolate (try saying that three times fast) and then we'll be on our way. 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... Please note: On occasion, certain departures will be moved from Contiki’s Château de Cruix to the French gastronomic capital of Lyon (a title which ain’t given lightly, believe us!)  We’ll get the party started with an included meal at a local restaurant, accompanied by local wine.

Beaujolais Wine Region
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. Rise & shine with optional sunrise yoga on the sprawling lawn of the Château's gardens or loll about poolside in our castle-like setting. Our highlight today is a picnic in the picturesque gardens. Cue panoramic views & red wine.

Beaujolais Wine Region to Barcelona
Bye-bye Beaujolais! And hello Barcelona. The Pyrénées mountains will keep our eyes satisfied today as we roll across the border for Spain's most lively city. Each day as sweet as the last. Well would you look at that for timing, we've pulled into Barcelona just on sangria o'clock. Fate, you've done it again! We'll enjoy a locally made dinner before we head out into the night to explore the city. That should have us in the Spanish mood before we know it.

Barcelona
Cobbled lanes of the Gothic Quarter, Montjuic hilltop vistas, & wild Spanish architecture will season our day to perfection. There's plenty of free time to roam free or take a dip in the Mediterranean sea, just don't tire yourself out - chances are you'll want to partake in the evening of Flamenco fun.

Barcelona to French Riviera
As smitten as we are by Barcelona, we have more of Europe to conquer. Much, much more... After a dreamy drive across the border into France through landscapes of lavender, sunflowers and wild herbs, we'll arrive at our lunch break town of Arles. Here we will get a peek at an ancient Roman Arena and at a typical provincial French town. You're not a real celebrity until you've frolicked on the French Riviera, and who are we to keep you off the A-List? Sapphire waters & endless glamour as we roll through this glitzy coastline.

French Riviera
Missing an opportunity to see this part of the world up close and personal would be criminal. Speaking of things you shouldn't miss, this region is famous for lavender honey, aioli & rosé wine; all 3 in one meal should be your mission. A night in glamorous Monaco should complete your day slash life. Don a fancy necklace and pop a plum in your mouth - we're about to embark on the lifestyle of the rich and the famous.  After a night on the blackjack table it's back to the coast and to bed, the next part of the adventure starts tomorrow.

French Riviera to Venice
Wake up and smell the… French perfume! Today you’ll visit a Perfumery, where you’ll take a look around and even have the chance to craft a signature scent of your own. Afterwards, it’s farewell to the French Riviera and off to Italy. Pizza, pasta, and charming locals are just around the corner. In fair Verona, where we lay our scene, a posse of travellers, all alike in excitement, check out the place that inspired Romeo & Juliet. We'll also check out the Roman Arena where other love stories were told. The floating city of gondolas, canals and pretty bridges - what a splendid way to commence our Italian love affair. Rest up tonight, you'll want to be alert for tomorrow's magical agenda.

Venice
Venice is yours for the entirety of this glorious Italian day. We'll be jumping aboard our own private boat and hitting the canals en route to the historical heart of the city. A gondola ride and a foodie tour of Venice island are up for grabs, or you can always choose to get lost on your own and see where the maze takes you.

Venice to Florence
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. The dome of Duomo Cathedral sits above the city making certain we know we have arrived in Florence. Tonight you can choose to begin your Tuscan love affair at a Free Time Add-On dinner - think pastas, bruschetta, cheeses, meats, tiramisù & wine.

Florence to Rome
This morning you’re free to make the most of your final hours in Florence, then with a heartfelt ‘ciao’, we’re bound for the epicentre of Italy: the Eternal City of Rome. After we drift through the rustic Tuscan hillsides of cypress trees and glowing fields, we'll be back city side in the Italian capital of Rome. Starting with a city walking tour, the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon & Piazza Navona are just some of the icons we'll be casting our eyes upon before the sun sets.

Rome
Rome wasn't built in a day but we sure can try and see it all in one day! Snap pink azaleas by the Colosseum, throw coins in fountains and sip espresso in a pretty street watching Italian life float by.

Rome to Adriatic Ferry
As completely satisfied as we are with our Italian odyssey, we have one more stop before we're a walking talking guidebook on this beautiful boot. Once a totally vibing hang-out of the Romans, Pompeii is now an archaeological site showing remains of what was destroyed in the year...wait for it...79AD. "Stepping back in time" is about to take on a whole new meaning. Drift off to sleep to the sway of our boat knowing tomorrow you'll wake in a brand new country.

Adriatic Ferry to Athens
We're pulling up in Greece! The awe of this country's mainland will begin shortly after our arrival as we catch a glimpse of Corinth Canal. This man-made passageway squeezes boats through it's path, sandwiched by two steep cliffs and sitting over glorious blue ocean. Docking here, we’ll make tracks overland for Athens. A collage of ancient wonders & modern magnificence, the allure of Athens is hard to resist. So it's a good thing you've got the evening to yourself. Roam the historical streets. Admire the scenic sunset. Or you can choose to take a guided tour of some of the best foodie hotspots in Athens.

Athens to Mykonos
We'll jump straight in this morning with a sightseeing tour of Athens. Our Local Guide will escort us through the history of the city visiting the Parthenon & Acropolis, followed by a visit to the first & original 'modern' (read: 1896) Olympic stadium. Our time in Athens was amazing and well worth delaying our island time for. But delay it further? We shall not... Let's do this! 3 nights on the island of Mykonos, how did we get so lucky? Even the boat ride across the Aegean will have you awe struck and in love.

Mykonos
It's time to channel your adventurous spirit! You have the entire day to spend exploring the island's sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife (in your very own Mykonian Backyard) and even the scenic Little Venice is just a short bus ride away. Today's your chance to see what all the Mykonos hype is all about.

Mykonos
Remember when you first looked at our itinerary and wondered if 3-nights in Mykonos would be too much? LOL! What a joke those feels are now. It's our final full day here and we all wish it would last for 3-months. So it's your final opportunity to explore the incredible island. (We highly recommend trying out ALL the Gyros options here). Sun, sand and sea - this is relaxation at it's peak.

Mykonos to Athens
Wave goodbye to the picture perfect Mykonos, it's time to cruise across the Aegean to Athens and continue our adventure across the best spots in Europe.  Ready for one more dose of Athens? We'll soak up the rays of the Mediterranean sun this afternoon before we head to our next Greek destination tomorrow.

Athens to Meteora
Back on the coach and bound for the border, we have one more stop to complete before we say goodbye to Greece. Here in Meteora, we'll be greeted by the spectacular site of six clifftop monasteries built on gigantic natural stone pillars. You'll have the chance to take an optional guided tour of thid UNESCO World Heritage site, or use the time to explore your own way before we settle in for an included dinner and our stay here for the night.

Meteora to Tirana
Rolling across the border to Albania, we'll stop for sweeping views across Lake Ohrid before cruising into Tirana, the capital city. Soviet-era buildings meet modern culture, with rainbow-coloured concrete buildings, lush woodland parks, and 'Peace Bell' built with old cartridge shells. We'll begin with an orientation of Tirana and a free evening to explore the city's nightlife and hip bars.

Tirana to Dubrovnik
Obscure off the beaten track capitals one day, trusted favourite cities the next. Such is the beauty of a see it all trip! For lunch, we’ll stop off here in the fortified city of Kotor, with views of Romanesque churches and limestone cliffs to keep us occupied while we eat. ...we make our way to Croatia. The spectacular seaside fortress town of Dubrovnik, also known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic”, is yours to explore for the evening - not forgetting it has an enviable party scene.

Dubrovnik
The city of Dubrovnik is so much more than just a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Game of Thrones location - not that either of those claims to fame are even mildly mediocre. After you've been guided around the city with intricate detail you'll be armed with the knowledge to pick out a waterside rock bar where you can swim and indulge 'til your heart's content.

Dubrovnik to Sarajevo
So long, Dubrovnik. It’s been a blast, but today we’re making our way north to Sarajevo. We’ll make a brief stop-off for lunch here in marvellous Mostar, home of the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge). Before rolling into Sarajevo, we’ll stop en route at the Olympic Bobsled & Luge track built for the 1984 Winter Olympics. Now covered in graffiti, the track is still worth a visit before we journey on to Bosnia’s eclectic capital city. With a full day of discovering this Eastern gem on the cards tomorrow, we’ll make the most of a free evening here tonight.

Sarajevo
The only way to uncover the town of Sarajevo is with the wisdom shared on a guided walking tour, tapping into 500 years of history, before free time this afternoon. This evening you’ll have the chance to sign up for an optional dinner in the homes of local hosts, who will lovingly prepare a traditional Bosnian meal and share their stories of wartime living. Or, make the most of your evening by exploring the local bars and nightlife.

Sarajevo to Plitvice Lakes
See you later Sarajevo, we’re crossing the border back into Croatia. Arriving in Plitviče this evening, we'll enjoy an included dinner at our accommodation, ready to explore tomorrow.

Plitvice Lakes to Ljubljana
We’ll start our morning the wholesome way, with the chance to marvel at a UNESCO World Heritage site that's also Croatia’s biggest (and oldest) national park. It gets better too, coz your entry into Plitvice is all sorted by us. Afterwards, feeling zenner than zen from all those waterfalls, we'll make our way across the border on a scenic drive from Croatia to Slovenia. Ljubljana awaits us with a curving river, outdoor cafe culture and green spaces that make it one of Europe's most liveable capitals. We'll explore with a city orientation, then this evening foodies will have the chance to enjoy a cultural evening of dining and entertainment.

Ljubljana
Today we’ll have a morning trip out to the beautiful Lake Bled - a picture-perfect spot and European must-see.  Surrounded by thick forest and ringed by snow capped mountains, beautiful Lake Bled is like something straight out of a fairy tale. Take a dip at the Lido areas of the lake or a leisurely cruise on its sparkling emerald waters. Visit picturesque Bled Island and take a hike to Bled Castle, an ancient fortification whose precipitous cliffside location offers stunning views over the lake and the surrounding countryside. Returning to Ljubljana, we'll have a free afternoon and evening to continue exploring.

Ljubljana to Austrian Tyrol via Lake Bled
Saying so long to Ljubljana, we'll stop to admire Lake Bled – a picture-perfect spot and European must-see to complete our visit to Slovenia.  Surrounded by thick forest and ringed by snow capped mountains, beautiful Lake Bled is like something straight out of a fairy tale. Take a leisurely cruise on its sparkling emerald waters, visit picturesque Bled Island and take a hike to Bled Castle, an ancient fortification whose precipitous cliffside location offers stunning views over the lake and the surrounding countryside. Here in the Austrian Tyrol we'll rest up in a Contiki Special Stay, a local Austrian Gasthof (guest house) that's waiting for us with open arms. With so much fresh air to breathe in outside, explore the dreamy setting we've descended upon. This is the perfect cosy retreat to swap stories with your crew while tucking into authentic Austrian food and local beer prepared on site and served by our Contiki chefs and bar staff.

Austrian Tyrol
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.

Austrian Tyrol to Munich
Polish off your stay in Austria with an optional whitewater rafting adventure - that should get the adrenaline pumping and excitement high for our impending visit to Germany. A city famous the world over for its annual beer festival is a city we need to know about. And luckily enough, its Bavarian culture is a year round attraction. You can explore the side streets of Munich on an optional bike tour, or go it on your own and see what you stumble upon.

Munich to Rhine Valley via Dachau
Today it’s goodbye Munich, hello wine country. 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 the Rhine Valley.  After the scenic journey of fairytale castles, vineyards and valleys, you'll be charmed before we even arrive in Germany's famous Rhine Valley. We’ll enjoy an included dinner here, and you’ll have the chance to take up an offer of wine tasting for the evening.

Rhine Valley to Amsterdam
This morning we'll drag you all away from Germany kicking and screaming that you want to stay forever. Only to see you equally infatuated with another dot on the European map hours later... You know the cheese, and now you're going to know the place that pioneered it. We'll cycle into the countryside to see windmills & picturesque Dutch houses, cheese farms & clog maker's houses. Flashing red lights, pretty canals, crooked buildings, cafes bursting with pizza + chocolate + French fries. Amsterdam is all that and way too many bags of chips.

Amsterdam
It's our last full day on tour & 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.

Amsterdam to London
Get your tissues ready, it's time to say goodbye to your new Contiki family. We'll escort you to Schiphol Airport by about 10am. 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.

Check Mark Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.