If you've been dreaming of going to Europe but don't know exactly where to start, the European Whirl is your best option. Taking in the usual destinations of Paris, Rome and Amsterdam, it also ventures out east to Prague and Berlin. Both of which are currently on Europe's 'must see' list. The perfect combination of culture, relaxation and of course, good times!
Itinerary
Day 1 Depart for Europe
Your exciting European trip begins.
Day 2 Arrive London
Check-in to your hotel after 2pm then enjoy the day exploring London. Tonight, meet your Tour Manager and fellow travellers for a pre-departure meeting.
Day 3 London to Amsterdam
A warm welcome from your Contiki Crew as we head for the White Cliffs of Dover and the Channel crossing to France. We travel through Belgium and into the Netherlands. After dinner a chance to explore this unique city and it's amazing nightlife. Youth Hotel (D)
Day 4 Amsterdam
After a relaxing bicycle ride through the cheese village of Edam, use the rest of your free day to explore this fascinating city. Perhaps visit famous sights such as Anne Frank's House or the Van Gogh Museum. Tonight a chance to try some local cuisine. Youth Hotel (B)
Day 5 Amsterdam to Berlin
Today we pass Hannover and cross the River Elbe as we make our way to Germany's capital, Berlin. Youth Hotel (B,D)
Day 6 Berlin
Time to explore this lively city where East and West once met. A chance for an Historical Walking tour, a visit to the "Checkpoint Charlie" museum or to check out the great shops, cafés and nightlife. Youth Hotel (B)
Day 7 Berlin to Prague
This morning we make a stop in Dresden before crossing the border into the Czech Republic. Tonight we discover the golden city of Prague. Hotel (B)
Day 8 Prague
A free day to soak up the Bohemian delights of Prague. Visit the Hradcany Castle district where the St. Vitus Cathedral dominates the skyline. Shop for crystal in the Old Town then perhaps join us for a lunch cruise along the Vltava River. Dinner is your choice tonight, a great way to farewell this magical capital. Youth Hotel (B)
Day 9 Prague to Munich
On to Bavaria's lively capital Munich, home to the Oktoberfest. This afternoon an orientation tour including the Glockenspiel and Marienplatz. Maybe join us this evening at one of the city's traditional Beer Halls. Youth Hotel (B)
Day 10 Munich to Austrian Tyrol
This morning a beautiful mountain drive from Bavaria to the Austrian Tyrol. Enjoy the scenery from a different angle and join us for a bike ride and barbeque lunch. Special Stopover (B,D)
Day 11 Austrian Tyrol to Venice
This morning the Austrian Alps form the backdrop for you to try white water rafting before we travel into Italy. We journey past Verona, home to Romeo and Juliet before continuing to mainland Venice. 18-35 Village (B,D)
Day 12 Venice
A short boat ride takes us into the historical centre of Venice to see St. Mark's Square, the Doges' Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs. See glass and lace making demonstrations and why not treat yourself to a gondola ride? 18-35 Village (B,D)
Day 13 Venice to Rome
All roads lead to Rome where our included sightseeing tour is the perfect introduction to the Eternal City. Tonight, a walking tour of this ancient city will include the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. 18-35 Village (B)
Day 14 Rome
Once at the centre of the powerful Roman Empire this city, steeped in centuries of ancient history, awaits your discovery. The Colosseum, Imperial Forum and the treasures of the Vatican City make for a day of serious sightseeing. 18-35 Village (B,D)
Day 15 Rome to Florence
A morning drive to Florence where our included walking tour takes us to the Duomo, Giotto's Bell Tower, Piazza della Signoria and the Basilica of Sante Croce. Shop for leather, gold and silver and tonight, a chance to sample the local food, drink, and nightlife. 18-35 Village (B)
Day 16 Florence to Swiss Alps
We continue north past Lake Como and through beautiful mountain scenery, visiting the lakeside town of Lucerne in central Switzerland. Our idyllic stop in the Swiss Alps is nestled at the base of the Jungfrau mountain. 18-35 Special Stopover (B,D)
Day 17 Swiss Alps
A spectacular day where you can choose to hike the many trails or maybe enjoy a trip up the snow-covered Jungfrau mountain on a cog railway that passes through the Eiger mountain! 18-35 Special Stopover (B,D)
Day 18 Swiss Alps to Paris
Travel past vineyards and through the French countryside to the romantic city of Paris and your first glimpse of this beautiful city. 18-35 Village (B,D)
Day 19 Paris
Today's sightseeing includes some of the most celebrated icons of Europe. Perhaps take the opportunity to visit the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Arc de Triomphe or the Champs Elysées. Tonight, why not complete your Parisian experience with a French meal and a famous Parisian cabaret? 18-35 Village (B)
Day 20 Paris to London
After breakfast, there will be a transfer for you to Charles de Gaulle Airport (estimated arrival at 10:00 am) OR choose to take a complimentary transfer to central London with your Tour Manager and Driver and extend your stay. (B)