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Ultimate European plus Egypt | Start London | 2025
Tour Description:
Two week holidays are for the time poor, and that ain't you. A month and a half will get you through an entire Europe guidebook. From Romania to Switzerland & Istanbul to Amsterdam, you're about to cover some serious ground. With included flights and ferries and enough activities to take your breath away, this is nothing short of a trip of a lifetime. And it's all topped off with a trip to the exotic lands of Egypt.
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Dates & Pricing
| Sunday 30 Mar 25 — Tuesday 13 May 25 | Starting at $10,008 |  SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Tuesday 15 Apr 25 — Thursday 29 May 25 | Starting at $9,099 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Tuesday 29 Apr 25 — Thursday 12 Jun 25 | Starting at $10,055 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Tuesday 13 May 25 — Thursday 26 Jun 25 | Starting at $10,255 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Tuesday 27 May 25 — Thursday 10 Jul 25 | Starting at $10,255 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Tuesday 03 Jun 25 — Thursday 17 Jul 25 | Starting at $9,279 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Tuesday 10 Jun 25 — Thursday 24 Jul 25 | Starting at $10,128 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Tuesday 24 Jun 25 — Thursday 07 Aug 25 | Starting at $10,635 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Tuesday 08 Jul 25 — Thursday 21 Aug 25 | Starting at $9,810 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Tuesday 22 Jul 25 — Thursday 04 Sep 25 | Starting at $10,327 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Tuesday 05 Aug 25 — Thursday 18 Sep 25 | Starting at $9,292 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Tuesday 19 Aug 25 — Thursday 02 Oct 25 | Starting at $10,915 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
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 Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice.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
Destination & SightseeingDining Summary
15 Dinner (D)
44 Breakfast (B)
1 Picnic Lunch (PL)
FAQs
London: What currency do I need? For this trip, we recommend that you carry the British Pound, Euro, Czech Koruna, Hungarian Forint, Romanian Lei, Turkish Lira, Bulgarian Lev, Swiss Francs, Egyptian Pound & US Dollars. (It’s a coin collector's dream!)
London: Are we going to reach Abu Simbel by coach or by plane? This varies from group to group and is subject to availability. Either way, your trip manager will let you know about this on Day 1 of your trip.
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.
Istanbul: Why is Turkey also referred to as ‘Türkiye’? At the end of 2021 the Republic of Turkey officially changed its English name to 'The Republic of Türkiye' (pronounced “Tur-key-yeah”), which is how it is both spelt and pronounced in Turkish.
London: Can I share a room with my partner on this trip? 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.
London: Is laundry service available? Most accommodations on the trip offer self-service laundry or a laundry service. Wanna know the best time and place to do your laundry? Ask your Trip Manager! They have all the info you need.
Included Experience
Dover: See the iconic chalk-white coastline. So special that it’s had songs dedicated to it.
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.
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: Clear out the cobwebs and get in touch with you zen side with a guided yoga session on the sweeping lawns of the château.
Beaujolais: Enjoy a French-style picnic while admiring the gorgeous Beaujolais countryside.
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!
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.
Arles: Visit the historic city of Arles, famous for inspiring the paintings of Van Gogh.
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).
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.
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.
Corinth Canal: The world’s deepest canal is an epic sight. It was carved through the rock, as a link between the Aegean and Ionian Seas.
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.
Cairo: Time to take to the sky. Cairo, here we come!
Cairo: Needs no introduction! Marvel at the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx. #bucketlist
Cairo: Check out this Cairo landmark and soak up the history. It’s home to more than 120,000 ancient Egyptian antiquities.
Aswan: Jump on a traditional Felucca boat and sail down the famous river.
Luxor: Stroll through the mighty mortuary temple built during the reign of Pharaoh Hatshepsut. Don't forget to bring your camera! You'll definitely want to capture the perfectly symmetrical poles of the Porticos. This is also the spot where the Beautiful Festival of the Valley (celebrated to meet your ancestors) used to take place back in the middle ages.
Luxor: Grab your camera and explore one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. See the tomb of Tutankhamun from the outside (with the option to add on exploring it from the inside!) and many other Egyptian pharaohs.
Athens: Time to take to the sky. Athens, here we come!
Thermopylae: Take a scenic coastal drive past the legendary Mount Olympus. But stay on your best behaviour: you don’t want any trouble with Zeus!
Thermopylae: Fans of the film 300 will love this tribute to Spartan warriors, on the site of the Thermopylae battle.
Istanbul: If you’re looking for ornate and photogenic buildings we have a treat for you. See the Byzantine Hagia Sophia (Blue Mosque), Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar and Suleymaniye Mosque.
Târgu Mureș: Visit the national monument in Transylvania (and also the inspiration for Dracula's castle) - which is now a museum with art and furniture collected by Queen Marie. And of course, you can take a look inside if you'd like!
Munich: We'll make a stop at a traditional Bavarian ‘Bier Halle’. Grab your Contiki crew and a beer. Prost!
Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site: Take a somber but impactful visit to the site of a World War II concentration camp in Munich.
Prague: Walk through the winding cobbled streets and head up into the fairytale-like Castle District for panoramic city views.
Berlin: Heads up culture vultures. Here’s your chance to check out the longest open-air gallery in the world.
Gallipoli: See the infamous site of the ANZAC troop landings at the battle of Gallipoli in WWI.
Gallipoli: Brush up on your history knowledge with a visit to WWI battle sites: Lone Pine Cemetery and Chunuk Bair Gallipoli
15 Dinner (D)
44 Breakfast (B)
1 Picnic Lunch (PL)
FAQs
London: What currency do I need? For this trip, we recommend that you carry the British Pound, Euro, Czech Koruna, Hungarian Forint, Romanian Lei, Turkish Lira, Bulgarian Lev, Swiss Francs, Egyptian Pound & US Dollars. (It’s a coin collector's dream!)
London: Are we going to reach Abu Simbel by coach or by plane? This varies from group to group and is subject to availability. Either way, your trip manager will let you know about this on Day 1 of your trip.
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.
Istanbul: Why is Turkey also referred to as ‘Türkiye’? At the end of 2021 the Republic of Turkey officially changed its English name to 'The Republic of Türkiye' (pronounced “Tur-key-yeah”), which is how it is both spelt and pronounced in Turkish.
London: Can I share a room with my partner on this trip? 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.
London: Is laundry service available? Most accommodations on the trip offer self-service laundry or a laundry service. Wanna know the best time and place to do your laundry? Ask your Trip Manager! They have all the info you need.
Included Experience
Dover: See the iconic chalk-white coastline. So special that it’s had songs dedicated to it.
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.
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: Clear out the cobwebs and get in touch with you zen side with a guided yoga session on the sweeping lawns of the château.
Beaujolais: Enjoy a French-style picnic while admiring the gorgeous Beaujolais countryside.
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!
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.
Arles: Visit the historic city of Arles, famous for inspiring the paintings of Van Gogh.
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).
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.
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.
Corinth Canal: The world’s deepest canal is an epic sight. It was carved through the rock, as a link between the Aegean and Ionian Seas.
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.
Cairo: Time to take to the sky. Cairo, here we come!
Cairo: Needs no introduction! Marvel at the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx. #bucketlist
Cairo: Check out this Cairo landmark and soak up the history. It’s home to more than 120,000 ancient Egyptian antiquities.
Aswan: Jump on a traditional Felucca boat and sail down the famous river.
Luxor: Stroll through the mighty mortuary temple built during the reign of Pharaoh Hatshepsut. Don't forget to bring your camera! You'll definitely want to capture the perfectly symmetrical poles of the Porticos. This is also the spot where the Beautiful Festival of the Valley (celebrated to meet your ancestors) used to take place back in the middle ages.
Luxor: Grab your camera and explore one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. See the tomb of Tutankhamun from the outside (with the option to add on exploring it from the inside!) and many other Egyptian pharaohs.
Athens: Time to take to the sky. Athens, here we come!
Thermopylae: Take a scenic coastal drive past the legendary Mount Olympus. But stay on your best behaviour: you don’t want any trouble with Zeus!
Thermopylae: Fans of the film 300 will love this tribute to Spartan warriors, on the site of the Thermopylae battle.
Istanbul: If you’re looking for ornate and photogenic buildings we have a treat for you. See the Byzantine Hagia Sophia (Blue Mosque), Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar and Suleymaniye Mosque.
Târgu Mureș: Visit the national monument in Transylvania (and also the inspiration for Dracula's castle) - which is now a museum with art and furniture collected by Queen Marie. And of course, you can take a look inside if you'd like!
Munich: We'll make a stop at a traditional Bavarian ‘Bier Halle’. Grab your Contiki crew and a beer. Prost!
Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site: Take a somber but impactful visit to the site of a World War II concentration camp in Munich.
Prague: Walk through the winding cobbled streets and head up into the fairytale-like Castle District for panoramic city views.
Berlin: Heads up culture vultures. Here’s your chance to check out the longest open-air gallery in the world.
Gallipoli: See the infamous site of the ANZAC troop landings at the battle of Gallipoli in WWI.
Gallipoli: Brush up on your history knowledge with a visit to WWI battle sites: Lone Pine Cemetery and Chunuk Bair Gallipoli
ITINERARY
ITINERARYLondon 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.
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. 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!
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. Tonight we'll have a chance to soak up the idyllic scenery, 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 Europe’.
Swiss Alps to Beaujolais Wine Region via Geneva
It’s been sweet, but we’re swapping Switzerland back for France again this morning. But first, 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...
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 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! Tapas and a night exploring the city 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 via Arles
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
Relaxation on the French Riviera... what could be better?! Market hopping, swimming in the Mediterranean Sea and an optional bike ride with the coastline as the backdrop are on the agenda today. This evening we add even more glamour to your life with a visit to Monaco. Don a fancy necklace and pop a plum in your mouth - we're about to embark on the lifestyle of the rich and 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. 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 ready for tomorrow's magical agenda.
Venice
Buongiorno! 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. Next, you have the option to discover Venice on a traditional gondola ride, or taking a guide tour of some of the best foodie hotspots in town.
Venice to Florence
After winding through the Apennine Mountains & visiting the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, we'll glide through Tuscany towards Renaissance Florence. Here we will drink up the secret streets & sacred art around the city's towering Duomo Cathedral. 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 olives, pastas, focaccia, meats & wine.
Florence to Rome
This morning is the perfect balance of guided local wisdom and free time to roam. First we'll uncover the beautiful art of traditional leatherwork, then you’re free to make the most of your final hours in Florence. Finally with a heartfelt ‘ciao’ to Florence, 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
When in Rome... This is the day to learn a thing or two about the Colosseum & do a bit of your own exploring. Espressos and people watching should be high priority, as well as stuffing yourself to the brim with pasta, gelato and caprese salad all washed down with a glass of red at a local trattoria.
Rome to Adriatic Ferry
The majestic site of Mt. Vesuvius will interlude our trip from Rome to Bari, our ferry port for today's border leap into Greece. Once a totally vibing hang-out of the Romans, Pompeii is now an archaeological site showing remains of what was destroyed by a mountain eruption in the year...wait for it...79AD. The saying "step back in time" is about to take on a whole new meaning. Let your feet walk their last few steps on Italian soil before we hit the seas for an overnight ferry ride en route to Greece.
Adriatic Ferry to Athens
Full steam ahead this morning, our course is set for Athens via the Corinth Canal. Oh hello there...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 gloriously blue ocean. The awe of Greece's mainland will begin shortly 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. We'll jump straight in 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.
Athens to Cairo
This morning is ours to soak up the last few hours of Athens, before we swap one ancient city for another and jet plane it to Cairo. Landing in Cairo, we'll find a city of ornate mosques, sparkling skyscrapers & sprawling avenues of 19th-century faded grandeur awaiting us. Egypt's capital is full of energy, but we'll save the proper exploring for tomorrow. Tonight, how about a cruise on the Nile with a buffet dinner & show?
Cairo to Aswan
Get ready for a sensory overload of the best possible variety. Markets & mayhem are on every corner, and the epic Egyptian Museum's awaiting your visit. Be ready to be mind-blown. Of the 7 Ancient Wonders of the World only one remains, and today you will be seeing it up close and personal. Get the tissues ready, seeing the iconic Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza in all their 4,600 year old glory will make for a day that stirs you to the very core. Tonight it's an overnight train to Aswan - nothing gives you a more up-close look at a place than riding local!
Aswan
Today is all about the African vibes - how easy it is to forget that Egypt actually spans North Africa! Also in Aswan you'll be pleased to no end by colourful markets, bakeries & cafés. Walk along the Nile before we hop aboard a wooden felucca sailboat and float up to lush botanical gardens. After a few drinks with the team we'll continue our epic journey, following the yellow desert road to Luxor.
Aswan to Luxor
Enjoy waking up to the Nile and sand dunes as your backdrop, while you sip your coffee and ponder just how good life is. Today is your chance to explore Abu Simbel's Temple of Ramses II, our local guide will uncover the history of one of the world's most iconic sites dating back to 1264 BC. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is a must-do for history buffs and those looking to get in the know on this ancient site. After a few drinks with the team we'll continue our epic journey, following the yellow desert road to Luxor.
Luxor to Red Sea
Only on a trip to Egypt would ancient royal tombs make a casual appearance on our daily agenda. Venturing to the Valley of the Kings known as 'City of the Dead,' our local guide will take us to some of the 63 royal tombs found here. Later, choose to visit the Temple of Karnak where we can find the world’s largest religious structure, the Temple of Amun. Across the Eastern Desert to the Red Sea Resort of Hurghada - tonight we are retracing ancient trade routes & getting in the mood for tomorrow's day of ocean magnificence.
Red Sea to Cairo
No matter which choose-your-own-adventure path you take today, it's probably going to land you submerged in the sea and absorbing a good burst of Egyptian sunshine. If beach hangs aren't quite enough, take the optional cruise to the jaw dropping coral reefs of the Red Sea & see if that hits the spot. Back to where our Egyptian odyssey kicked off - the colourful city of Cairo. It's our last evening here before we head back to Europe and reconnect with the rest of the pack. Make the most of it.
Cairo to Athens
That's it for Egypt, time to hit the skies and head back to Europe where another 21-days of endless extraordinary times are waiting for us. Oh hey Athens, it feels like forever since we last hung out! And same goes for our Contiki posse. Enjoy this reunion night then it's back on the road tomorrow - the good times never stop.
Athens to Kavala
By now you should be well and truly acquainted with all things Athens and ready to embark on our next venture. This time tomorrow we'll be on a whole new continent. Before arrival in our final destination in this fine country we'll see Greece’s highest peak, Mt Olympus, and the grounds of Thermopylae, where an ancient battle of 300 vs. thousands proved size really doesn't matter. The coastal town of Kavala is our nest for the evening. Down your last Greek salad, cheers the country over a glass of ouzo and sleep well in preparation for our next few days in Turkey.
Kavala to Eceabat
Get your pout out and blow your final kiss in the direction of Greece. We'll be carving up the seas making our way to...Turkey! Ah, the traveller's life. Hello Eceabat! This stunning seaside town will be our home for tonight. Rest your heads. Get some sleep. And get ready for another wonderful day tomorrow.
Eceabat to Istanbul via Gallipoli
Morning, travellers. Today, we'll travel along the coast to the capital. But not before we make a stop at a historic place. We'll start our Turkish explorations on a sobering note by visiting the battlegrounds of Gallipoli. This is the spot where the ANZAC troops landed during WW1. Unlike anywhere else on earth, Istanbul is set to capture your heart and imagination. Rest up tonight and the city is yours from sunrise.
Istanbul
The Blue Mosque with its interior of 20,000 handmade tiles; lively spice markets; bazaars bursting at the sides with silver & jewels. Istanbul is one place we'll really have to drag you away from. Our Local Guide will show you the hotspots, and you're always free to get lost and uncover some secrets of your own. Just be sure to find your way back if you're keen for the traditional Turkish evening with dinner and a show.
Istanbul
A city like this needs more than a day on our calendar. Take in the sites you missed yesterday or if you're all explored out, go unwind at a "hammam" spa for a Turkish bath. Then drink endless tea and eat your body weight in baklava and you've had the full Turkey experience.
Istanbul to Black Sea
Crossing the border from Turkey to Bulgaria, we'll arrive at the Black Sea late afternoon. Here we'll be greeted by coastal resort towns and bar-lined waterfronts, where we'll be headed this evening to enjoy some dinner and a taste of the local nightlife.
Black Sea to Bucharest
This morning we'll set our sights for Romania. Crossing the border, we'll arrive in Bucharest this afternoon to discover beautiful architecture, street art, rooftop cafes, and an ornate Parliament building with enough steel, bronze, marble, crystal and wood that combine to make it the heaviest in the world! You'll have free time this afternoon and evening to explore the city, maybe checking out the open air museum 'Dimitrie Gusti' with depictions of village life, exploring the colourful umbrella passage between Universitate and Victoriei, or tasting an authentic traditional meal in the Old City or one of the local bistros.
Bucharest to Transylvania
Departing Bucharest after breakfast, we'll set our sights for none other than Transylvania. Of course, a stay in Transylvania wouldn't be complete without a drive to Bran Castle to visit the real life setting that inspired Dracula, before driving on towards Târgu Mureș. With a free evening tonight, you'll also have the chance to explore the local nightlife and bar scene.
Transylvania to Budapest
We'll leave behind the ghosts of Transylvania's past and hit the road for Budapest. Fun fact #1: Buda and Pest are two different cities separated by a river, together they make Budapest. Fun fact #2: You're going to be head over heels with both of them by the time we scoot outta here. Down goulash and cabbage rolls on tonight's optional cruise to get into the Hungarian spirit of things.
Budapest
Throw yourself into the sightseeing this morning with the church of St. Matthias, the Royal Palace and the Chain Bridge. That way you'll really earn an afternoon soaking in the city's famous outdoor thermal pools set amongst Art Nouveau architecture. Blissed out in Budapest - there's an insta caption for you.
Budapest to Salzburg
Bye Budapest! Normally we’d be devastated to be leaving, but with Austria on the horizon we have strudel and music to look forward to. Onwards and upwards we go, into the mountain ranges that made the Sound of Music famous. Also home to Mozart, you can be pretty certain Salzburg knows a tune! This evening you’ll have the chance to venture off the beaten track and visit a working farm in the hills above Salzburg where the local family will invite us into their home to eat, drink and learn about their lives. This family have lived on the farm for many generations and now look to tourism to help support them and their local community, with food sourced from local farms and fruit for the schnaps from the village.
Salzburg to Austrian Tyrol
Morning Salzburg! Today you’ll have the chance to sign up for a tour of the Sights & Sounds of Salzburg before we say goodbye to Salzburg and continue on in our discovery of Austria. Breathe in that fresh alpine air and take in the dreamy setting we’ve descended upon. Here in the Austrian Tyrol we'll be resting up in a Contiki Special Stay, a local Austrian Gasthof (guest house) that's waiting for us with open arms. This is the perfect cosy retreat to relax and swap stories with our crew, while tucking into authentic Austrian food and local beer prepared fresh on site.
Austrian Tyrol
Wake up, peel open your curtains, and take in the magnificence of your view...and your life in general. 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, carry on sighing with happiness.
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 Prague
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. 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. The evening will see us immerse ourselves in Czech culture with an optional Traditional Czech evening, featuring a folklore show and dinner.
Prague
Today is the day we get to know the real Prague. Don't miss our optional 'Hidden Prague' adventure, where a local guide will show us the city's best kept secrets. Then, the night is yours to amble around the Old Town Square and find a few haunts to let the hours slip away in.
Prague to Berlin
You may have fallen head over heels for Prague, but we have so many more places to be! Back on the coach, we'll roll on to our next country, Germany. A drive from Prague to Berlin wouldn't be complete without stopping in Dresden. Sadly destroyed by World War II, the rebuilt town is now a symbol of resilience, soaked in the beauty of an Opera house, the domed Frauenkirche, & the Royal Residence. We'll spot them all on a tour of the best spots before hitting the road again. 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 an included dinner tonight, ready for a full day of exploring tomorrow.
Berlin
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.
Berlin to Amsterdam
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, then it’s off to explore the city however you like. Whatever eclectic fantasies you have about Amsterdam, the real life version will impress you more. Fire yourself up for pretty canals, a bounty of unique museums & quirky cafes galore.
Amsterdam
Today starts with some free time to explore Amsterdam however you like – don’t miss the canals, bars and a visit to the STRAAT museum. We’ll reconvene this evening for an (optional) dinner at 1ste Klasse, a historic Amsterdam restaurant built into the old first class waiting room at Central Station. Afterwards, we’re off for a canal cruise (aren’t we lucky?)
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.
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