Tour Ultimate European (Egypt, Start London, End London, 45 Days) | Visit United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Others

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. Get total James Bond vibes. 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 all the sights off your bucket list! Amalfi Coast: Definitely one for the bucket list. Your chance to check out one of Europe’s active volcanoes. 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. Cairo: Needs no introduction! Marvel at the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx. #bucketlist Cairo: Aswan: Jump on a traditional Felucca boat and sail down the famous river. Luxor: Follow in the footsteps of the pharaohs as you walk the ancient 2.7km stretch that links the temples of Luxor and Karnak 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. Troy: A treat for the history buffs. Spark your imagination as you visit the mythological Horse of Troy with a local guide. 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 Gallipoli: Take a boat around this legendary inland sea and enjoy epic views of Istanbul. 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. 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.

Transport

Coach

Meals

15 Dinner (D) 44 Breakfast (B) 1 Picnic Lunch (PL)

Optional

Parisian Dinner (Euro 36.00) Right in the heart of Paris’ colourful artists’ quarter in Montmartre, this typically French bistro dishes up loads of atmosphere and is the perfect place to get to know your group over a tasty 3-course meal. Parisian Cabaret Show (Euro 81.00) Get dressed up for a stylish night out at a Parisian cabaret show. The intimate atmosphere is the perfect way to kick off your trip. From your cute, lamp-lit table, watch a whirl of can-can girls, acrobats & comedians go by over a glass of French cham Secrets of Venice Walking Tour (Euro 11.00) Get an in-depth look into Venice as you walk through the little lanes & gorgeous squares of the city’s historic heart. Our Local Guide will show you the monuments of St Mark’s Square & reveal the hidden secrets of the floating city. You’ll also visit th Gondola ride (Euro 23.00) Sit back & watch the city open up on the canals on a gondola ride. From magnificent palaces to the local’s laundry strung across the backwaters, Venice’s charm gets at you at every curve. Souvenir group photo (Euro 11.00) Take home a great memento of your travels as you join the group for a photo in one of Florence’s famous piazzas or with one of the city’s stunning panoramas as a backdrop. Space Disco (Euro 16.00) Get into the Florentine nightlife at the city’s largest club. Right in the heart of town, Space Electronic Disco draws a mix of both locals and travellers. With different zones spread over 2 levels, you can have some fun with karaoke & show off your move Tuscan Dinner (Euro 33.00) Tonight’s restaurant is located right in the heart of Florence. Enjoy a traditional 3 course meal including pasta and a delicious main course - all washed down with some local wine. Vatican Tour (Euro 34.00) Explore the historical treasures of the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica on a sightseeing tour with our local guide. Take a walk through the amazing collections of the Tapestry Gallery, visit Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring masterpiece Rome of the Emperors and Gladiators including the Colosseum (Euro 30.00) Wander through the ruins of the ancient Roman Empire’s political heart, while our Local Guide peels back the layers of history & reconstructs the past. From the intrigues and assassinations of the Forum, to the bloody battles of the Colosseum, learn how Pompeii Guided Walking Tour (Euro 22.00) Turn back the clock when you learn about Mt Vesuvius’ eruption and the ancient city of Pompeii. Our Local Guide will tell you about this once thriving city and the sites that were buried under all the volcanic ash. Explore the town’s well-preserved neig Captains Cruise of Corfu (Euro 40.00) With your Corfu captain at the helm of a caïque (pronounced kaheek), a traditional Greek wooden sailing boat, set sail to fantastic swimming holes in hidden away spots and get another angle on Corfu from the water. When you’ve worked up an appetite, the Ionian Dinner Experience (Euro 33.00) In a typical Greek taverna, our welcoming hosts will put on a spread of local specialties. Tuck into some succulent lamb roasted on the spit and get into the fun and energetic vibe, complete with dancing and the crazy tradition of plate breaking! Car Hire (Euro 65 - 200) Hire a car and cruise the countryside to get a deeper look at Corfu. With freedom to move how and when you like, you can stop at little mountain villages or gorgeous, remote beaches. Daily hire rates depend on the type and size of car you choose, but our Tour t-shirts (From Euro 21.00 - 32.00) Feeling creative? Make up a one-off design for a tour t-shirt with your group. They’re perfect for keeping your travel memories fresh when you’re back home. Water sports (From Euro 18.00 - 50.00) Test the waters off one of Corfu’s beaches and sign up for some action. With stunning views across the Ionian sea, and olive groves growing right to the water’s edge, you can imagine how this is the perfect spot for adventure. Head out with some friends a Nile Cruise with Buffet Dinner & Show (US $45.00) Tonight, jump on a boat and cruise down Egypt’s life blood, the Nile River. Under Cairo’s night lights, see this busy capital from another angle. Feast on a buffet of local specialties and international dishes with the group. Group Photo (US $11.00) Join the group for a photo in front of the world-famous Pyramids & Sphinx and take home a great picture to remember your travels by. Nubian Village Visit ($25.00) Abu Simbel’s Temple of Ramses II (US $273.00) Fly over the vast desert and the world’s largest man-made lake, Lake Nasser, to the famous UNESCO World Heritage site that is also one of Egypt’s most spectacular monuments. Mammoth statues of Ramses II and his queen, Nefertari, are carved into the rock Guided visit of the Temple of Karnak & Luxor (USD $40.00) Explore this open-air museum & get the essential local angle on the site as you tour Egypt’s second most visited attraction, the Temple of Karnak. As our expert Local Guide shows you around, you’ll learn all about this sacred area. Being the largest reli Red Sea Cruise (US $46.00 for 8-11 pax; US $41 for more than 12 pax) Out on the world-famous Red Sea, you’ve got the perfect opportunity to snorkel and get an in-depth look at colourful coral reefs. Don’t worry about gear; we’ve got it all – mask, snorkel and flippers. Then eat your fill of grilled local fish or meats wi ’Kervansaray’ Turkish evening (Euro 31.00) Belly dancing is the stuff of legends – and tonight, in the heart of Istanbul, you’ll get a feel for Turkish culture in one of the city’s most popular and legendary restaurant & nightclubs. Enjoy mezes (plate sized nibbles) and kebabs while watching trad Group Photo Budapest (Euro 10.00) River Cruise with dinner (Euro 34.00) Take in a different view of the “Paris of the East” from the Danube River, while cruising past night-time Budapest. Our Local Guide talks about Hungary’s heyday when the Austro-Hungarian Empire was dominant and points out the city’s important buildings fr Old Vienna Schnaps Museum (Euro 7.00) This is a behind-the-scenes look at the production of schnaps and Austrian liqueurs. Have a taste of the finished products and get schnaps savvy as the owners tell you more in their traditional distillery. Schnitzel and Screams (Euro 33.00) Tandem paragliding (Euro 128.00) Take off from the side of a mountain & soar over this stunning region in an adrenalin-pumping tandem paraglide. Flying with an experienced, professional pilot also gives you a chance to grab some great photos on the way! All you need for this adventure Mountain bike tour & BBQ lunch (Euro 33.00) Jump on a bike & head out for a fully guided tour through picture-perfect Austrian mountain scenery. In a region that is all about the outdoors, this is the perfect way to take in the fresh alpine air, waterfalls, mountain streams & fields. Once you’ve w Mike’s Bikes Tour (Summer only) (Euro 21.00) 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. White Water Rafting (Euro 43.00) Time for action in the Tyrol’s monumental mountains. Have a blast on the Inn River’s rapids in an adrenalin-pumping ride. Follow the river’s surging course under the watch of some professional local guides. Don’t worry – if you can swim, you’re in! Jungfrau Mountain visit (EUR 149.00) Head up into the Swiss Alps as you scale 3,454metres (11, 300ft) by cog railway, through 7 kms (4.2 miles) of tunnel, to the highest railway station in the world. Step out onto the “roof” of Europe, on Mt Jungfrau at this UNESCO World Heritage site. Wine tasting (Euro 9.00) In the historic setting of an underground candlelit cellar, get the low-down on the region’s reputation as a leading white-wine producer. Try out local wines as you sip on some Riesling & the exclusive ice wine - the areas specialty. Canal bike tour (Euro 11.00) Kick off your day with some action out on the canals in a fun introduction to Amsterdam. Do your bit on our four-seater pedal boat & cruise along a picturesque route that takes you past gabled houses, buildings from the Dutch Golden Age & house boats, be Canal cruise (1 hour) (Euro 24.00) Floating down Amsterdam’s canals by night is the perfect way to toast your travels with your friends & Tour Manager. Cruise past historic buildings & the eye-opening Red Light District. The cruise gives you a different take on one of Europe’s hot creativ Sea Palace Dinner (Euro 32.00) Tonight, enjoy rice table dinner at a popular floating restaurant, smack in the middle of Amsterdam. This style of eating began in former Dutch colony, Indonesia & has since become a popular Dutch tradition. Your table will be loaded with a selection of

Guide

Expert Trip Manager and Driver Team and Local Guides

Hygieneprotocol

All guests travelling with Contiki through December 31, 2022 are required to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, which may include a booster shot to keep the vaccination status current and valid, depending on the travel destination. Children not eligible for vaccination and/or booster at the time of travel must provide a verifiable and negative Covid-19 test result, taken within 72 hours prior to the start of the tour (taking time zones into consideration) for all tours departing until December 31, 2022. For guests travelling with Contiki from 1 January 2023, Covid-19 vaccinations and boosters are highly recommended, but no longer required. Please note that regardless of time of travel guests will need to comply with specific vaccine and/or booster requirements imposed by airlines and/or authorities in the destination visited, as well as requirements for accessing restaurants and venues, which may be more restrictive than above. It is guests’ responsibility to ensure that they comply at all times with these requirements. No refunds will be given if guests are unable to undertake some or all of their vacation due to their failure to comply with these requirements.

Accommodation

19 nights in Hotels, 19 nights in Hostels, 4 nights in Special Stays, 1 night in Overnight Ferry, 1 night in Overnight Train

Not included:

Insurance

Insurance is not included.

Others

Other activities and services are not included.

Flights

Flights are not included.

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: London To Paris
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

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.
Day 2 Day 2: Paris
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: 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!
Day 3 Day 3: Paris To Swiss Alps
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: 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.
Day 4 Day 4: Swiss Alps
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: 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’.
Day 5 Day 5: Swiss Alps To Beaujolais
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Swiss Alps To Beaujolais

It’s been sweet, but we’re swapping Switzerland back for France again this morning. 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: Due to so many people wanting to party with us, certain departures will be moved from Contiki’s Chateau 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. We’ll also uncover all the city’s magic on a guided tour.
Day 6 Day 6: Beaujolais
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Beaujolais

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.
Day 7 Day 7: Beaujolais To Barcelona
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Beaujolais 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.
Day 8 Day 8: Barcelona
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: 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.
Day 9 Day 9: Barcelona To French Riviera
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: 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.
Day 10 Day 10: French Riviera
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: 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.
Day 11 Day 11: French Riviera To Venice
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: 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.
Day 12 Day 12: Venice
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Venice

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. Next, you have the option to discover Venice on a traditional gondola ride, or take a guided cruise out to the UNESCO heritage site of Burano. At this picture-perfect fisherman’s island decorated with gorgeous technicolour houses, you’ll visit a local family restaurant and indulge in the best seafood feast you’ve ever experienced.
Day 13 Day 13: Venice To Florence
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: 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.
Day 14 Day 14: Florence To Rome
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: 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.
Day 15 Day 15: Rome
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 15: 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.
Day 16 Day 16: Rome To Adriatic Ferry
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 16: 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.
Day 17 Day 17: Adriatic Ferry To Athens
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 17: 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.
Day 18 Day 18: Athens To Cairo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 18: 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?
Day 19 Day 19: Cairo To Aswan
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 19: Cairo To Aswan

Get ready for a sensory overload of the best possible variety. Markets & mayhem are on every corner, with stops for hummus and tea proving very essential. 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!
Day 20 Day 20: Aswan
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 20: 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.
Day 21 Day 21: Aswan To Luxor
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 21: Aswan To Luxor

Taking a flight over Abu Simbel’s Temple of Ramses II, an Egyptian desert and Lake Nasser - now there’s a way to spend a day. If that isn’t quite enough, perhaps listening to some Nubian music, eating spicy tomato okra and enjoying the palm-fringed Nile will see you satisfied. After a few drinks with the team we’ll continue our epic journey, following the yellow desert road to Luxor.
Day 22 Day 22: Luxor To Red Sea
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 22: 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.
Day 23 Day 23: Red Sea To Cairo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 23: 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.
Day 24 Day 24: Cairo To Athens
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 24: Cairo To Athens

That’s it for Egypt, time to hit the skies and head back to Europe where another 19-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.
Day 25 Day 25: Athens To Kavala
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 25: 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.
Day 26 Day 26: Kavala To Canakkale
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 26: Kavala To Canakkale

From the comfort of our ferry as it crosses the Dardanelles, 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...ASIA! Ah, the traveller’s life. This afternoon we discover that "Troy" means more than just a Hollywood blockbuster; so much more. Our Local Guide will unravel the historical layers of a ten year war & what is now a mythical excavation site. Continent crossed!! There aren’t likely to be many times in your life that you’ll do that at sea level. Welcome to Asia & just as importantly, welcome to Turkey.
Day 27 Day 27: Canakkale To Istanbul
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 27: Canakkale To Istanbul

So long Canakkale, we’re off to the only city in the world split over two continents, incredible Istanbul. Though a few days of fun times and city frolics are ahead of us, we will start our Turkish explorations on a sobering note by visiting the battlegrounds of Gallipoli. Unlike anywhere else on earth, Istanbul is set to capture your heart and imagination. Rest up tonight and the city is yours from sunrise.
Day 28 Day 28: Istanbul
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 28: 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.
Day 29 Day 29: Istanbul
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 29: 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.
Day 30 Day 30: Istanbul To Black Sea
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 30: 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.
Day 31 Day 31: Black Sea To Bucharest
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 31: Black Sea To Bucharest

After a free morning to spend beachside, 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.
Day 32 Day 32: Bucharest To Transylvania
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 32: 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 Cluj-Napoca. Here we’ll get acquainted with the city, with Saxon and Hungarian landmarks, one of the biggest old town squares in Southeastern Europe, a beautiful Botanical Garden, fortified Cetățuia Monastery and a 15th century tower. With a free evening tonight, you’ll also have the chance to explore the local nightlife and bar scene.
Day 33 Day 33: Transylvania To Budapest
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 33: 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.
Day 34 Day 34: Budapest
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 34: 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.
Day 35 Day 35: Budapest To Salzburg
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 35: 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.
Day 36 Day 36: Salzburg To Austrian Tyrol
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 36: 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.
Day 37 Day 37: Austrian Tyrol
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 37: 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.
Day 38 Day 38: Austrian Tyrol To Munich
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 38: 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.
Day 39 Day 39: Munich To Prague
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 39: 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. Don’t miss our optional ’Hidden Prague’ adventure, where a local guide will show us the city’s best kept secrets.
Day 40 Day 40: Prague
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 40: Prague

Today is the day we get to know the real Prague. The evening will see us immerse ourselves in Czech culture with an optional Traditional Czech evening, featuring a folklore show and dinner.
Day 41 Day 41: Prague To Berlin
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 41: 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.
Day 42 Day 42: Berlin
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 42: 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.
Day 43 Day 43: Berlin To Amsterdam
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 43: 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 the A’DAM Swing for potentially the best view of the city (plus a go on Europe’s highest swing.) After that, you’re free to explore the city however you like – there’s plenty of nightlife to keep you going ’til the early hours.
Day 44 Day 44: Amsterdam
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 44: Amsterdam

Today starts with some free time to explore Amsterdam however you like – don’t miss the canals, bars and wonderful museums. 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?)
Day 45 Day 45: Amsterdam To London
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 45: 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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45 days tour

Ultimate European (Egypt, Start London, End London, 45 Days)

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Itinerary of your trip Ultimate European (Egypt, Start London, End London, 45 Days)

Day 1: London To Paris

Day 2: Paris

Day 3: Paris To Swiss Alps

Day 4: Swiss Alps

Day 5: Swiss Alps To Beaujolais

Day 6: Beaujolais

Day 7: Beaujolais To Barcelona

Day 8: Barcelona

Day 9: Barcelona To French Riviera

Day 10: French Riviera

Day 11: French Riviera To Venice

Day 12: Venice

Day 13: Venice To Florence

Day 14: Florence To Rome

Day 15: Rome

Day 16: Rome To Adriatic Ferry

Day 17: Adriatic Ferry To Athens

Day 18: Athens To Cairo

Day 19: Cairo To Aswan

Day 20: Aswan

Day 21: Aswan To Luxor

Day 22: Luxor To Red Sea

Day 23: Red Sea To Cairo

Day 24: Cairo To Athens

Day 25: Athens To Kavala

Day 26: Kavala To Canakkale

Day 27: Canakkale To Istanbul

Day 28: Istanbul

Day 29: Istanbul

Day 30: Istanbul To Black Sea

Day 31: Black Sea To Bucharest

Day 32: Bucharest To Transylvania

Day 33: Transylvania To Budapest

Day 34: Budapest

Day 35: Budapest To Salzburg

Day 36: Salzburg To Austrian Tyrol

Day 37: Austrian Tyrol

Day 38: Austrian Tyrol To Munich

Day 39: Munich To Prague

Day 40: Prague

Day 41: Prague To Berlin

Day 42: Berlin

Day 43: Berlin To Amsterdam

Day 44: Amsterdam

Day 45: Amsterdam To London

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