Inside Contiki’s European Discovery Tour: 12 Days, 7 Countries
If you're dreaming of seeing Europe but overwhelmed by the idea of planning it all yourself, the Contiki European Discovery tour might be exactly what you’re looking for. In just 12 days, this whirlwind itinerary takes you across seven countries, giving you a taste of iconic cities, must-see landmarks, and a whole lot of unforgettable moments along the way.
As a travel advisor who helps young adults find trips that are both adventurous and hassle-free, I can tell you this one checks a lot of boxes—especially for travelers aged 18–35 who want to explore, connect, and cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time.
Tour Overview: What to Expect
The European Discovery tour starts and ends in London, looping you through the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, and France before heading back to the UK. It’s fast-paced, high-energy, and packed with iconic highlights—but there’s also enough downtime to soak in local culture and make the experience your own.
You’ll travel by private coach with a group of fellow young travelers, which is part of the magic. Whether you go solo or bring a friend, chances are you’ll end the trip with an entirely new travel crew.
Highlights by Destination
London to Amsterdam
The tour kicks off in London, but after a ferry ride across the English Channel, your first real taste of the continent is Amsterdam. From winding canals to cozy cafés, the city feels like something out of a storybook. A canal cruise on the first night sets the tone—chill, scenic, and a great way to bond with your group.
Germany's Rhine Valley & Munich
Next, it's off to the Rhine Valley, with its storybook castles and vineyard-covered hills. It’s peaceful and picturesque—an underrated stop. Then you’re off to Munich, where the beer halls and traditional Bavarian vibes come alive. Expect plenty of schnitzel, steins, and laughter.
Austria to Italy
On the way to Venice, you’ll pass through Austria’s alpine landscapes before descending into the land of pasta and piazzas. Venice is just as magical as you’d hope—think gondolas, glassblowing, and narrow alleys that lead to hidden gems.
Then comes Rome, a city that truly lives up to the hype. You’ll explore the Colosseum, the Vatican, and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain—all in a single day. It’s a lot, but it’s incredible.
Florence & The Tuscan Countryside
After the rush of Rome, Florence offers a slower pace and stunning Renaissance art. There’s time to wander cobblestone streets, shop for leather goods, and eat your weight in gelato.
Switzerland’s Mountain Magic
Next stop: Lucerne, Switzerland. Snow-capped peaks, clear lakes, and charming old town vibes make it a refreshing change of pace. If you’ve never tried Swiss fondue in the Alps, here’s your chance.
Paris, Je T’aime
Your final major destination is Paris, and it doesn’t disappoint. Eiffel Tower views, patisserie stops, and maybe even a cabaret show round out the trip with a bang. There’s time to stroll the Seine, explore Montmartre, and indulge in everything French—croissants included.
Where You’ll Stay
Contiki uses centrally located hotels and well-rated accommodations throughout the journey. While it’s not five-star luxury, the focus here is on clean, comfortable places that keep you close to the action. Most days include breakfast, and there are a few group dinners sprinkled in, though you’ll also get chances to eat like a local.
Who This Tour Is For
This trip is perfect for:
First-time visitors to Europe
Solo travelers looking to meet people
Groups of friends wanting an easy, social travel experience
Young adults who want to see the big sights without planning every detail
It’s not for people who want to sleep in late or linger in one place for a week. This is a go-go-go kind of trip—but that’s the point. It’s designed to give you a highlight reel of Europe, with the freedom to come back later and explore your favorite spots in more depth.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely—if you’re in the right age range and mindset, this trip delivers an unbeatable intro to Europe. You’ll hit major cities, soak in culture, make new friends, and have the time of your life without worrying about the logistics.
As a travel advisor, I always say: Contiki’s European Discovery tour isn’t about seeing everything. It’s about experiencing enough to fall in love with Europe—and deciding where you want to go deeper next time.
Want help deciding if this Contiki tour (or another one) is the right fit for you or your group? I’d love to chat—just reach out anytime and let’s get your passport ready.