The adventure starts here! Get ready for the journey of a lifetime. After a warm welcome in London, set off with Paris as your destination. Witness the famous White Cliffs of Dover on the way, a stunning stretch of chalky coast that marks the start of many natural wonders you’ll encounter. Crossing the English Channel, arrive in Calais and dive into the rich history of the World War I battlefields in the Valley of the Somme. Finally, arrive in Paris, the City of Love, kicking off with a special dinner to get to know your Contiki crew. After savouring French cuisine, your Trip Manager will unveil Paris’s iconic sights in a sparkling night tour, from the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe to the Louvre, Champs-Élysées, and Notre Dame Cathedral.

Accommodation: B&B Hotel Paris Nord 18ème (or similar) | Paris
Included Meals: Dinner

Today’s all about soaking up Paris’s charm at your own pace. Stroll the picturesque streets, explore chic designer boutiques or vintage gems, marvel at the Notre Dame Cathedral, savour coffee and crêpes, or dive into art at the Louvre’s museums. In the evening, food lovers can enjoy a true Parisian feast in Montmartre, surrounded by cobbled lanes, quaint cafés, street artists, and the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Alternatively, experience an unforgettable night at a classic Parisian cabaret show. Either way, tonight will be one for the books!

Accommodation: B&B Hotel Paris Nord 18ème (or similar) | Paris
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

It’s time to leave Paris and discover sprawling vineyards and an extraordinary château adventure. Step into the grandeur of Château Fontainebleau, a medieval masterpiece surrounded by serene ponds and lush gardens, then continue the scenic journey to the heart of Beaujolais. Here, vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. Your destination? Contiki’s very own 16th-century château – a true gem boasting newly-renovated rooms and bathrooms, a private nightclub, unique artwork in every corner, a games room, and even a dedicated powder room for freshening up. Oh, and the pool and gardens are epic. Tonight, indulge in an included dinner and wine tasting at the château.

Accommodation: Château de Cruix (or similar) | Beaujolais Wine Region
Included Meals: Breakfast

As tempting as it is to continue living the château dream, the travel show must go on! Today you will venture onto the glorious French Riviera, glide through the winding coastal roads and discover why the region is so famous for its lavender honey, aioli and rosé wine.

Accommodation: Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar) | French Riviera
Included Meals: Breakfast

Few places embody ‘French chic’ quite like Nice. Today, you can wander through the vibrant market stalls, take in stunning views of the Côte d’Azur from the castle, or embrace the local lifestyle by sipping a refreshing pastis while watching the world go by. This evening, turn up the glamour with a visit to Monaco. Slip on that fancy necklace, pop a plum, and step into the world of the rich and famous, then back to the coast for some rest before more big adventures tomorrow.

Accommodation: Beach Hostel (or similar) | French Riviera
Included Meals: Breakfast

Today, bid adieu to the glamorous French Riviera and embark on your first adventure into Italy. Get ready for pizza, pasta, and the warm hospitality of charming locals to steal your heart (and fill your plate). No European adventure is complete without a stop to see the world’s most famous #AwkwardLean – the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Continue on your journey, and as the iconic dome of the Duomo Cathedral rises above, you’ll know you’ve arrived in Florence. Take a moment to soak in the city’s unique beauty, where culture and la dolce vita are everywhere you look. Tonight, kick off your Tuscan love affair with an optional classic dinner featuring Bistecca, a delicious Florentine steak.

Accommodation: Hotel Mirage (or similar) | Florence
Included Meals: Breakfast

This morning, you’re free to soak up your last moments in Florence before saying a heartfelt ‘ciao’. After cruising through the rustic Tuscan hillsides, lined with cypress trees and golden fields, you’ll arrive in the bustling Italian capital of Rome. Your adventure here begins with a city walking tour, where you’ll take in the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and other iconic sights before the sun sets.

Accommodation: Hotel Santa Costanza (or similar) | Rome
Included Meals: Breakfast

Rome wasn’t built in a day, but you’ll sure be seeing most of it in one! Snap photos of pink azaleas by the Colosseum, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and sip espresso in a charming street as you watch Italian life unfold around you.

Accommodation: Hotel Santa Costanza (or similar) | Rome
Included Meals: Breakfast

Today, you’ll leave Rome behind and head north to the top of Italy’s famous “boot,” making your way to Venice – the enchanting city of canals. On the way, stop in Padua, a city where history meets modern flair. Known for its prestigious university, one of the oldest in the world and once home to Galileo, Padua buzzes with a youthful, vibrant energy. Take some time to explore and grab dinner, and don’t miss Giotto’s stunning frescoes in the Scrovegni Chapel – a medieval masterpiece that tells the life of Christ in vivid, comic-like scenes. Finally, arrive in Venice, a floating wonderland that captures the heart of every visitor. Built on over 100 small islands connected by 400 bridges and 150 canals, this city has no roads, only waterways. The iconic Grand Canal, lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces, sets the stage for your exploration tomorrow.

Accommodation: Hotel Riviera dei Dogi (or similar) | Venice
Included Meals: Breakfast

It’s time to leave Italy behind and head to Germany, but not before you’ve taken in the sights of the beautiful Austrian Alps on the way. Arrive in Munich and admire the Bavarian culture and, of course, grab yourself a beer at the legendary beer halls! Explore the city on foot or join in the bike tour to see more of Munich.

Accommodation: Ramada Encore by Wyndham (or similar) | Munich
Included Meals: Breakfast

As you leave Munich today, pause for a reflective visit to the Dachau concentration camp memorial. Take some time to learn about its history and reflect on its significance, before continuing your journey to the Rhine Valley. Filled with fairytale castles, vineyards, and rolling hills, you’ll already be enchanted by the scenery. Once you arrive in Sankt Goar, enjoy an included dinner and an optional wine tasting experience to savour the region’s best.

Accommodation: Hotel Montag (or similar) | Sankt Goar
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, say goodbye to Germany as you head to the Netherlands. But first stop, Edam – you know the cheese, but now it’s time to discover the town where it all began. Cycle through the Dutch countryside, passing windmills, charming houses, cheese farms, and clog-making workshops, soaking in the authentic Dutch atmosphere. Your final stop brings you to Amsterdam, where you’ll kick off your exploration with a view of the iconic canals, bicycles, and 17th-century gabled houses. For a unique experience, take the optional A’DAM Lookout swing, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and canals below.

Accommodation: Via Hostel (or similar) | Amsterdam
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Amsterdam is as charming as it gets, with winding canals, quirky museums, and a café scene like no other. Use your day to explore like a local: hop between bars, visit unique museums, and sample the city’s famous treats like pancakes and frites. Kick off your adventure with an optional trip to the A’DAM Tower, where you can swing out over the city (drink in hand) for unbeatable views. Later, join your Contiki crew for an optional dinner in a nearby fishing village and cap off the evening with a canal cruise. Could Amsterdam get any better?

Accommodation: Via Hostel (or similar) | Amsterdam
Included Meals: Breakfast

This afternoon, cross from France to England and make your way back to London. Here, you’ll have the chance to reflect on the journey, say goodbye to your travel group, and start planning your next adventure!

Included Meals: Breakfast

Supplier cancellation and refund policy:
Refunds will be processed according to the following time frames:

Cancellations between 1-7 days incur a 75% fee.

Between 8-21 days incur a 50% fee.

Between 22-59 days incur a 25% fee.

Cancellations 60 days and over you can transfer your deposit to another trip for free with FlexDeposit.

Please see our Terms and Conditions page for Happy Travels specific cancellation and refund policy.

For this trip, you’ll need just two currencies – the British Pound and the Euro.

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.

In Europe, group sizes can range between 24 – 53 awesome travellers.

Detour trips offer a different type of experience and max out at 16 people led by a local host.

Included in the cost are essential travel elements such as accommodation, transport, and meals (breakfast is typically offered daily, along with selected authentic meals). Included Experiences feature must-see attractions and activities. You’ll also benefit from expert Contiki staff support throughout the trip. Special requests, such as birthdays or proposals, can often be accommodated with prior communication.

Contiki trips offer a great degree of flexibility so certain elements are not included in the base price. Flights to and from the trip’s starting and ending points must be arranged separately. Some experiences and activities require additional costs and are available as Free Time Add-Ons. Meals outside of included options and travel insurance are also not covered.

Contiki are leaders in organised youth travel, offering incredible travel experiences for young people between 18 and 35 years old since 1962. With over 60 years of expertise, Contiki specialises in creating memorable, social, and immersive journeys. The brand focuses on two core values: “Make Every Moment Count” and “We’re About People”. The “Travel Together” philosophy embodies the spirit of shared travel experiences, connecting people with destinations, cultures, and the environment in meaningful ways.

Contiki tailors travel experiences specifically for 18-35-year-olds, ensuring fun, dynamic itineraries that bring together like-minded people. This age range fosters connections that feel instant, creating a social travel environment that blends adventure and new friendships.

Contiki revolutionises hassle-free travel. From solo adventurers to groups, every trip is meticulously planned, ensuring that every detail, from accommodation to transport, is taken care of. This allows travellers to enjoy stress-free experiences, while adding personalised activities during their free time. Each journey is led by an expert Trip Manager who provides hands-on support, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Contiki is committed to sustainable travel practices, working towards a low-carbon future with its four-point Climate Action Plan. Since 2022, all Contiki trips are carbon natural, contributing to environmental sustainability. The company is on a journey to Net Zero, prioritizing carbon reductions and supporting environmentally conscious travel.

The Trip Manager is responsible for organising the trip and providing essential information, fun facts, and local food recommendations. They ensure the trip runs smoothly, addressing any concerns or issues. The Trip Manager also offers cultural and historical insights, delivering informal talks when relevant.

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all Contiki tours, covering cancellation, medical expenses, personal injury, loss of property, and adventure activities. It’s essential to ensure the policy covers all the activities included in the trip.

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

We endorse the recommendation of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that all travellers take out travel insurance. If you already have Travel Insurance please understand that it is your responsibility to ensure that your Travel Insurance covers you for all of the adventure style travel you have booked with us.