European Discovery

European Discovery

Featuring: Belgium (in transit), Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Vatican City, Italy, Switzerland, France

Length: 14 days
Accommodations: n/a
Meals: Dinner, Breakfast
as per itinerary
Sightseeing: Belgium (in transit), Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy, Vatican City, Switzerland, France
Transportation: Coach, Ferry
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Itinerary

  1. Day Icon-day1 London to Amsterdam

    Meet your Contiki Crew and see the White Cliffs of Dover before travelling through Belgium and into the Netherlands to Amsterdam.

  2. Day Icon-day2 Amsterdam to Rhine Valley

    This morning take time to explore one of Europe's most intriguing cities. Maybe visit Anne Frank's House or the Van Gogh Museum. This afternoon we cross the German border and head for the stunning Rhine Valley.

  3. Day Icon-day3 Rhine Valley to Munich

    This morning learn how beersteins are crafted before travelling to the capital of Bavaria, Munich. Explore and see the famous Glockenspiel before joining us in a traditional beer hall.

  4. Day Icon-day4 Munich to Austrian Tyrol

    Snow-capped Alps form the backdrop for you to try white water rafting mid-morning and later be dazzled by the sparkle of Swarovski crystal. Tonight we stay in the picture postcard paradise of the Austrian Tyrol.

  5. Day Icon-day5 Austrian Tyrol to Venice

    Today we wind through the astonishing beauty of the Brenner Pass to cross the border into Italy. It's a short boat ride to the historical centre of Venice to see St Mark's Square, the Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. There's no better way to see Venice than from a gondola so why not join us for a ride before treating yourself to a Venetian evening meal?

  6. Day Icon-day6 Venice to Rome

    Past medieval hillside villages and through the Apennine Mountains, we travel south to the fabled Seven Hills of Rome. Do as the Romans do and stroll past the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. Later be delighted by your first glimpse of the Colosseum on our sightseeing tour.

  7. Day Icon-day7 Rome

    Ancient and modern Rome await your discovery. Why not take a guided tour of the Imperial Forum and walk in the footsteps of Gladiators? In your free time explore the Vatican City and Sistine Chapel, snap up Italian fashions or just watch the world go by with a gelato (or two).

  8. Day Icon-day8 Rome to Florence

    Our morning drive leads us to Florence, the Renaissance city set in the beautiful Tuscan Hills. Learn about the Duomo, Giotto's Bell-Tower, Piazza della Signoria and Santa Croce as our local guide walks us through the city. Free time to shop or visit one of the famous museums.

  9. Day Icon-day9 Florence to Lucerne

    Our path takes us toward the towering Alps and the vast serene lakes of Switzerland. Be charmed by medieval Lucerne and enjoy shopping for local specialties - watches, chocolate and Swiss army knives.

  10. Day Icon-day10 Lucerne to Paris

    Our focus today is the journey to Paris. We weave our way through the beautiful French countryside to the "City of Lights".

  11. Day Icon-day11 Paris

    Visit a French perfume house and then take the opportunity to visit some of the most celebrated icons of Europe. The Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Nôtre Dame, Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysées all await your arrival! Tonight, why not complete your Parisian experience with a French meal and a famous cabaret?

  12. Day Icon-day12 Paris to London

    Today we drive past World War I battlefields on the way to our cross-channel ferry back to England. Time to swap addresses and say goodbye as we arrive early evening in London.

Tour Map

Highlights

All these highlights along with city sightseeing are included in your tour price!

Included
  • Amsterdam: See the canals, gable houses and city by night
  • Rhine Valley: Scenic drive along the Rhine River; Visit the riverside town St. Goar
  • Munich: See the Glockenspiel & Marienplatz; Visit a beerhall
  • Austrian Tyrol: See this picturesque area, famous for adventure sports
  • Brenner Pass: Scenic drive past vineyards, orchards & castles
  • Venice: Private motorboat to the historic islands; See Piazza San Marco, Bridge of Sighs and the Doges' Palace; Murano glass-blowing demonstration
  • Rome: See Piazza Venezia, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Colosseum & Roman Forum
  • Vatican City: See St. Peter's Basilica
  • Florence: Walking tour with a local guide; See the Duomo, Basilica Santa Croce, Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistry & Piazza della Signoria; Florentine leather craft demonstration
  • Lucerne: See the Wooden Chapel Bridge; View the Lion Monument
  • Burgundy: See the Chablis & Burgundy vineyards
  • Paris: Evening Tour of Illuminations; See the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, the Champs Élysées, and Notre Dame Cathedral; Visit a French Perfumery
Accomodations
  • 12 nights twin or triple-share hotel accommodation
  • 11 continental breakfasts (B) & 6 three-course dinners (D) as per itinerary
  • Hotel tips, local taxes and service charges
Contiki Difference
  • Experienced, professional Tour Manager & Driver
  • Modern, air-conditioned coach with outlets for charging
  • Free Contiki Travelers Guide
  • Free Contiki document wallet
  • Ferry crossing
  • Sightseeing tours of all major cities

Optional Excursions

Please Note

Europe Optional Excursions (prices vary)
The optional excursions below are a guide of what may be available on this tour in 2009. Complete details will be updated in early 2009.

Amsterdam

Canal Cruise (Euro 28.00)
A cruise on Amsterdam's world-famous canals is the perfect way to see this wonderful city. You'll pass many famous sights including Dutch gabled houses, the Anne Frank house, churches and the Red Light District. The included beer, wine, soft-drinks and snacks will make your evening complete.

St. Goar

Wine Tasting (Euro 8.00)
A chance to sample and learn about some of the most famous wines of the Rhine region of Germany. There's also the opportunity to purchase some of your favourites! Don't leave your tasting glass behind - it's yours to keep.

Munich

City Bike Tour (Euro 16.00)
Explore Munich like a true Bavarian. Join us on a guided bike tour - you'll cycle past the famous sights as your guide explains the fascinating history of the city. The perfect way to see a lot in a short time.

Austrian Tyrol

White Water Rafting (Euro 38.00)
Experience the thrills of white water rafting in the most picturesque setting imaginable! You'll travel through rapids in the company of your tour mates and a highly professional rafting team. Full equipment (including safety helmets and wet suits) is included in the cost (white water rafting is normally available from May to September).
Swarovski Crystal World (Euro 7.00)
Swarovski Crystal is world famous for its high quality and exceptional beauty. Visit the newly renovated museum in Wattens, to view incredible displays of light, colour and sound. See the world's largest and smallest crystals, and the unique 'Crystal Wall'- 11 metres high, 42 metres long and packed with 12 tonnes (2,200 lbs) of glittering stone!

Venice

Gondola Ride (Euro 21.00)
No trip to Venice is complete without a ride on the canals in a world-famous gondola. Take in the sights, savour every minute and treasure this truly memorable Venetian experience.
Venetian Restaurant (Euro 29.00)
Our chosen venue guarantees a warm and friendly welcome in true Venetian fashion. You'll enjoy a superb selection of local specialities and some local wine, making it an unforgettable evening in one of the most romantic cities in the world.

Rome

Guided Imperial Tour (Euro 25.50 (10-19 people) / Euro 24.50 (20+ people))
Join a local guide for an excursion back in time. You'll wander across the cobbled stones of the Roman Forum, marvel at the Colosseum and learn why the glory of Imperial Rome still stands out in the history of western culture. Price includes entry into Forum and Colosseum.

Florence

Souvenir Group Photo (Euro 11.50)
A photo of you and all of your new friends is the perfect souvenir from your tour. The photo will be taken with a panorama of Florence in the background or in one of the city's famous piazzas.
Tuscan Evening (Euro 38.00)
A beautiful setting in the Tuscan hills is the venue for our traditional Tuscan evening. Enjoy a selection of antipasta, delicious freshly made pasta, a wonderfully aromatic main course and dessert - all washed down with some local Chianti wine. You'll also enjoy some traditional Italian entertainment - making this a truly special evening.
Space Electronic Disco (Euro 12.00)
A chance to dance the night away at Florence's largest night-spot. Your first drink is included in the price and will get you started for an evening of fun. Enjoy the great music and maybe take the opportunity to show off your karaoke skill.

Lucerne

Mt. Stanserhorn (SF 43.00)
Don't miss the opportunity to travel 1,920m (6,300 ft) to the top of Mt. Stanserhorn. The trip includes a funicular train and aerial cable car. From the summit you'll enjoy panoramic views over the magnificent Swiss Alps.
Lake Lucerne Cruise (SF 25.00)
Take in the spectacular alpine scenery aboard our own private cruise on stunning Lake Lucerne. Enjoy the majestic beauty of the wooded mountains and picturesque villages reflecting in the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne.

Paris

Nouvelle Eve Dinner and Show (Euro 114.00)
Enjoy an evening at Nouvelle Eve, one of the top cabaret shows in Paris. Situated near Montmartre, the show is an extravaganza of dancers, exquisite costumes and comedy acts. The sumptuous three-course meal and drinks (including champagne during the show), along with one of the most dazzling 'French Can Can' dances around will mean this is a truly unforgettable evening!