European Trail | Gap Year 18-22 | Start Amsterdam | Summer | 2026
- Overview
- Itinerary
- What's Included
- FAQ
- Dates
Embark on an unforgettable European adventure with the "European Trail" tour, designed for young travelers aged 18-22. Starting in Amsterdam, this summer journey takes you through 12 captivating countries, including Germany, Italy, and France. Experience the vibrant culture of Amsterdam, the historical depth of Berlin, and the romantic allure of Paris. Marvel at iconic landmarks like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Eiffel Tower, and explore the haunting history of Auschwitz-Birkenau. Enjoy comfortable coach travel and vibrant hostel stays, with 22 breakfasts and 5 dinners included. This small group tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, historical insights, and breathtaking sightseeing, ensuring a memorable European experience.
Highlights
- Explore the vibrant city of Amsterdam with its iconic canals and unique café culture.
- Discover Berlin's rich history with a walking tour, including visits to Hitler's underground bunker and the Holocaust Memorial.
- Experience the charm of Prague, with its Gothic architecture and the historic Charles Bridge.
- Visit the haunting Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp memorials in Poland.
- Enjoy the thermal baths and Art Nouveau architecture in Budapest.
- Take a scenic walk around Lake Bled, surrounded by the Julian Alps in Slovenia.
- Marvel at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy.
- Explore the romantic city of Paris, with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Mode of Transport
Accommodation
Dining Summary
- 22 Breakfast (B)
- 5 Dinner (D)
FAQs
- London: Travelling to (and through) the UK & Northern Ireland? You’ll need Essential Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)From?January 8, 2025, UK law means that if you’re entering/transiting through border control in the United Kingdom (UK) and Northern Ireland you’ll need an?Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?before you travel. Confused? Don’t be – just read on here.
- London: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
- London: What currency do I need? For this trip, we recommend that you carry the British Pound, Euro, Czech Koruna, Polish Zloty, Hungarian Forint, and the Swiss Franc. (It’s a coin collector's dream!)
- London: Can I share a room with my partner on this trip? 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.
- London: How do I know when to book tickets for non-included attractions in Amsterdam? This trip includes plenty of interesting Free Time Add-Ons in Amsterdam. So if you’re planning to do any other activity, and looking to book in advance - it’s best to book your tickets between 12-3PM. Of course, you can always book any other time (we’re all about freedom to explore!). But make sure you don’t miss the other activities, or a coach transfer to the accommodation!
- London: Who will I room with if I book additional nights before my trip? You'll stay in a Twin share room (meaning you'll be paired with a fellow traveller of the same gender, and will have two separate beds). If you're booking your trip with a friend/travel companion - just let us know, so we can join your bookings and ensure you share a room. Need a lil' more privacy? You're welcome to opt for a single supplement if you like.
Included Experience
- Dover: See the iconic chalk-white coastline. So special that it’s had songs dedicated to it.
- Berlin: Heads up culture vultures. Here’s your chance to check out the longest open-air gallery in the world.
- Berlin: Get your culture on. It’s time to see Tiergarten, Alexanderplatz, the Russian War Memorial, Brandenburg Gate and the historic Reichstag building.
- Dresden: See the Baroque architecture that was rebuilt after the WWII bombings. Royal Residence, Zwinger Palace, Opera House and Frauenkirche.
- Prague: Walk through the winding cobbled streets and head up into the fairytale-like Castle District for panoramic city views.
- Prague: Charles Bridge. Wenceslas Square. Old Town Square. The Astronomical Clock. See them all IRL in this whimsical city.
- Kutna Hora: We’ll have some free time to explore the quaint town of Kutná Hora. Looking for an experience you’ll feel in your bones? Don’t miss your chance to check out the local Sedlec Ossuary Chapel – decorated on the inside with 40,000 human skeletons (additional cost applies).
- Vienna: Buckle up for a scenic drive along the historic Ring Road of Vienna. See St Stephen’s Cathedral and the State Opera House as you go.
- Memorial and Museum Auschwitz-Birkenau: Reflect on the tragedies of the past with a solemn visit to the largest concentration camp in World War II.
- Kraków: Get your bearings in this medieval Polish city. Our orientation will get you familiar with the cathedral, Royal Castle and all the best places to grab a beer.
- Banská Bystrica: This historic Slovakian city is filled with ornate buildings and framed by snow-capped mountains. It’s the perfect Insta backdrop!
- Lake Bled: Take it easy with your new besties as you walk around the scenic lake, framed by the Julian Alps.
- Ljubljana: Join your new gang for an orientation of Slovenia’s fairytale-like capital. Get your fix of rainbow architecture, Insta-friendly bridges and epic mountain backdrops.
- Venice: Speed across the lagoon to the aqueous island of Venice.
- Venice: Life’s all about the waterways here; there’s not an Uber in sight! Get some classic pics of the famous gondola boats.
- Pisa: Your ultimate chance to ‘hold the tower up’ as you pose for that classic Insta snap.
- 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.
- Paris: Your chance to learn the art of fragrance at a Parisian perfume house. You know it makes scents! (soz).
Optional Activities
Personal Expenses
Travel Insurance
Flights
Entry Fees
Destinations
- Austria
- Czech Republic
- England
- Europe
- France
- Germany
- Hungary
- Italy
- Poland
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Switzerland
Tour Types
- 18-30 somethings
- Walking
- History
- Cultural
- Sightseeing
- Europe Coach Tours (departing UK)
Location: London, Dover, Calais, Amsterdam
The adventure of a lifetime with a group of 18 to 22-year-olds kicks off today. Meet up with your new Contiki family in London town before hitting the road to Amsterdam. Shortly before we find our ferry for France, we'll be taking in the English coastline beauty of the White Cliffs of Dover. They owe their gorgeousness to their composition of chalk - you're learning and we haven't even left the UK! Off the ferry we arrive in the port town of Calais - French soil! We travel north via Belgium before reaching...Amsterdam! Tonight, after an included dinner and a panoramic view of Amsterdam, the fun-famed Amsterdam is yours to explore in all its glory.
Accommodation Name: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)
Meals: Dinner
Location: Amsterdam
Amsterdam is cute as a button & sure to win your heart with its canals, obscure museums & a café culture like no other. Today use your time to get local, bar hop, museum crawl, and see what other tastes take your fancy, this place is famous for pancakes, frites and so much more.<br/>
Accommodation Name: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Amsterdam, Berlin
Amsterdam, it's been lovely, but today's agenda is onto the autobahn and on the fast-track to uber-cool Berlin. 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 start them off with a driving tour. After that, you're free to explore, and maybe even sample some of that legendary nightlife for yourself...
Accommodation Name: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Location: Berlin
Get into the mood of exploration with a historical walking tour where you'll discover 20th century Berlin (including Hitler's underground bunker & the Holocaust Memorial) with our local guide. Berlin has so much to offer the hungry traveller, from the obvious icons like Checkpoint Charlie to all the obscurities tucked away in the side streets. This evening we’ll embark on an Alternative Berlin walking tour, taking us to all the city’s hipster haunts.<br/>
Accommodation Name: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Berlin, Dresden, Prague
"More city hangs" you'll all scream in unison as we motor out of Berlin, high on life & still wanting more. Since you asked so nicely, let us present you with Prague, the darling of Europe. A drive from Berlin to Prague would not be complete without stopping in Dresden. Destroyed by World War II, the rebuilt town is now a symbol of resilience, soaked in the rebirthed beauty of an Opera house, the domed Frauenkirche, & the Royal Residence. 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 and gothic history.
Accommodation Name: Plus Prague (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Location: Prague
With a full day to loiter, expect an entire photo album of Gothic architecture, market antiques & you cheers-ing beer; not to mention life! Tonight, you could see yourself spending the evening indulging in traditional Czech cuisine while admiring the local folklore dancers as the sun goes down on the 'City of a Hundred Spires'.<br/>
Accommodation Name: Plus Prague (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Prague, Kutna Hora, Vienna
Today we exchange the Czech Republic for Austria, waving goodbye to pretty Prague knowing that cultured Vienna is coming right up. Before Vienna we'll be stopping in the Bohemian city of Kutna Hora, remembering that Bohemia is the name of the place and not a nod to the fashion sense of the people that live there. Make the local Sedlec Ossuary chapel a high priority, it's decked out and furnished in the bones of over 40,000 ... humans. Eeep! Austria, we have arrived! It's time for a Habibi & Hawara dinner, followed by a classic night out in one of the city's imperial palaces (both totally optional, should you prefer to spend your evening relaxing in style.)
Accommodation Name: JO&JOE Vienna (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Vienna
A whole day lies ahead to uncover the ethereal Austrian capital. Our Trip Manager will uncover the historical heritage of Schönbrunn Palace, the State Opera House and the gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. And once you've seen all that, you'll have a bit of free time to check out art galleries and local coffee houses, maybe even try a slice of the famous Sacher Torte.
Accommodation Name: JO&JOE Vienna (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Location: Vienna, Auschwitz, Krakow
Rise up travellers and start practicing your Polish pleasantries, we'll be in Krakow later today so they may come in handy. Today we will change pace once we cross the border, as we drop to an unfamiliar and sobering level by visiting the concentration camp memorials of Auschwitz & Birkenau. Learning and growing is what we travellers do. Then afterwards its onto the city of Krakow, which is now known for its salt mining heritage and tales of mythical dragons. Relax tonight as we have all day tomorrow to explore.
Accommodation Name: Ibis budget Krakow Stare Miasto (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Krakow
Join an Orientation tour to get to know the city's best beer spots and historical hotspots then you're free to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed centre in your own time. A Jewish Quarter, a jaw-dropping castle & museums aplenty are just some of the relics found in the relatively untouched Krakow. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Polish evening and try Pierogi, a Polish favourite - these dumplings are an absolute classic.<br/>
Accommodation Name: Ibis budget Krakow Stare Miasto (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Krakow, Banska Bystrica, Budapest
Alpine scenery and traditional villages will make our departure from Krakow more manageable. Particularly with the knowledge that we have Budapest coming up in the eve. Pastel painted and manicured to perfection, Banska Bystrica is a lunch break that will charm you to no end. Being in Slovakia, it's also your chance to brag 3 countries in one day - you crazy globetrotter you. Welcome to Hungary! Coming in at number 3 on our list of countries ticked off through the day. From the moment we arrive in the river split city, you'll understand why we needed a couple of nights here. Waste no time getting involved with Budapest by joining the optional river cruise and dinner.
Accommodation Name: A&O Budapest (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Budapest
The day is yours to tackle Budapest however you see fit. After all the travelling we've done, you've probably earned yourself 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. If gardens, fountains, pools and ruins are the call of your day, put Margaret Island top and centre of your to do list.<br/>
Accommodation Name: A&O Budapest (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Budapest, Ljubljana
This morning we say goodbye to the city of Budapest and head south to Slovenia! Though the name Ljubljana might not be as well known as Budapest, that doesn't diminish its delight as a European city. In fact, its undiscovered charm is all part of the fascination... WOW is probably the one word we hear in unison as we pull up at this jaw dropping lake. Don't forget to keep your swimmers out today, this is the perfect place for a dip to break up the journey, and grab a few lust-worthy snaps. Aesthetically wonderful and filled with youthful moods, Ljubljana is one to love for its off the tourist trail vibes and casual attitude. Without a list of monuments to tick off, you're free to get cozy in a cafe and lap up the endless local feels.
Accommodation Name: Ljubljana Resort (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Venice
Ever the advocates of a balanced holiday, today we're trading in the obscure unknown for the globally adored hot spot of Venice. Whoop! Yes, it's as cute as you imagine. Yes, you'll feel like you're part of an Italian fairytale. Yes, you are actually hanging out in the gondola clad floating city of Venice! A private boat ride, gothic architecture and a web of lanes to explore will keep your day filled quite nicely.
Accommodation Name: Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Venice, Rome
Farewell floating city, but Italy, we're not done with you yet, our next destination the Eternal City is just around the corner. This afternoon will really take it up a notch as we uncover Italian icons in the country's capital of Rome. Gelato, pizza, and ancient monuments galore, but why not try a pasta making class and cook a homemade meal for dinner? If that's not your style feel free to explore and get a glimpse of Rome's glory by night.
Accommodation Name: The Yellow (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Rome
Rome wasn't built in a day but we sure can try and see it all in one day! Snap pink azaleas by the Colosseum, throw coins in fountains and sip espresso in a pretty street watching Italian life float by.
Accommodation Name: The Yellow (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Rome, Pisa, Florence
Lets hit the road as we have more of Italy to lust over… 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. For those of you not familiar with the whole Florence deal, we have two words for you: it's heaven. Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is more proof that Italy has so many great places packed into one small region. Potter along the River Arno, be totally Tuscan with another drop of Chianti wine, and take in the beauty of the city and its protruding Duomo Cathedral. We have all day tomorrow to let the explorations continue.
Accommodation Name: 'Re-Dama Hostel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Florence
Today is a perfect balance of guided wisdom, food and free time to roam. Take the opportunity to explore streets bursting with heritage and delicious flavours as you explore the local markets and down some gelato.<br/>
Accommodation Name: 'Re-Dama Hostel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Florence, Pisa, Swiss Alps
Hopefully by now you are head to toe in fresh leather, you've eaten your bodyweight in antipasto, and you're feeling fresh as a daisy and ready to farewell Florence. 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 the Swiss Alps. Bunking down amid fairytale snowcapped mountains tonight shows how far we've come since golden Florence this morning, and that right there is the magic of Europe. Tomorrow we'll set out to explore this magical land of cheese, chocolate and watches.
Accommodation Name: Adventure Hostel Interlaken (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Swiss Alps
Open the window of your room & drink in the incredible view - if you can find words or photos that do it justice, we applaud you! If you're feeling audacious, opt to take a trip to a Swiss mountain with your travel crew, or feel free to explore this classic European adventure town.<br/>
Accommodation Name: Adventure Hostel Interlaken (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Swiss Alps, Paris
Out with the altitude, in with the inner-city Parisian bliss. Once we've crossed the border out of Switzerland we will be coasting through the pretty wine producing region of Burgundy before our arrival in Paris. We'll reach Paris and enjoy an included dinner before a chance to explore the glittering city of lights.
Accommodation Name: Jo&Joe Gentilly (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Location: Paris
Stock up on perfume at the Fragonard Perfumery. Especially given the greatly discounted prices and authenticity of buying in France. Later you can moan over haute couture you can't afford, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral whilst juggling coffee and crêpes, & get artsy at the many rooms of the Louvre. Just don't wear yourself out, you will probably want to get involved with dinner and a cabaret show. With your last night looming, make it one to remember in the city of lights.<br/>
Accommodation Name: Jo&Joe Gentilly (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Location: Paris, London
Soak up your last dose of Paris and feel the astonishment of how much you've seen on this trip. And how close you've grown to your loved-up Contiki collective. What a journey, if you've chosen to end your trip on arrival in London say a fond farewell to the remainder of your group as you wrap up the journey on arrival.
Meals: Breakfast
Included
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Accommodation
-Stay in vibrant hostels like Via Hostel Amsterdam, Generator Alexanderplatz in Berlin, and Plus Prague, offering a lively atmosphere and comfortable amenities.
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Transport
-Travel across Europe in comfort, starting from London and journeying through iconic cities like Amsterdam, Berlin, and Prague with scenic drives, ferry crossings, and coach transfers.
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Included Experiences
-Explore iconic landmarks and cultural sites such as the Berlin Wall, Prague's Charles Bridge, Auschwitz-Birkenau, and the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
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Guided Tours
-Participate in guided tours such as a historical walking tour in Berlin and an orientation tour in Krakow.
Not Included
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Optional Activities
-Optional activities such as a river cruise in Budapest and a night out in Vienna are not included.
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Personal Expenses
-Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
-Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Flights
-International and domestic flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
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Entry Fees
-Entry fees to certain attractions and museums are not included unless specified in the itinerary.
| Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
21-Jul-2026
for 0 Nights |
Multi-share (Mixed sex) | £2783.00 |
