European Inspiration (Winter)

• Overview
• Itinerary & Map
• Highlights & Optional Excursions
• Dates & Rates

The European Inspiration gives you the best of both holiday worlds. A great combination of destinations, Berlin, Prague, Munich, Rome and Paris to name a few, as well as two nights everywhere, giving you time to explore each city in greater detail. Scenic drives through Italy and Austria, a stopover in the heart of the Swiss Alps and plenty of awesome extras that you definitely won't want to miss out on.

Print Itinerary Itinerary & Map

1. Day Depart for Europe

   Your exciting European trip begins.

2. Day Arrive London

   Check-in to your hotel after 2pm then enjoy the day exploring London. Tonight, meet your Contiki Tour Manager and fellow travellers for a pre-departure meeting.

3. Day London to Amsterdam

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

4. Day Amsterdam

   Visit a local cheese farm to learn how cheese and clogs are made. Spend your free time wandering along the canals, shopping or visiting famous museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank's House. (B)

5. Day Amsterdam to Berlin

   This morning we head east and continue to Berlin, the cultural capital of Germany. You'll have your first glimpse of the Berlin Wall and time to sample the great nightlife of this vibrant city. (B,D)

6. Day Berlin

   A full day of sight-seeing including the remains of the Berlin Wall, the Russian War Memorial and the Brandenburg Gate. An opportunity to visit the "Checkpoint Charlie" museum. Tonight, why not head for town, mix with the locals and try some traditional fare? (B)

7. Day Berlin to Prague

   Drive south through Germany and stop for lunch in Dresden. We head into the Czech Republic for two nights in Prague, the golden city built on Seven Hills across the River Vltava. (B,D)

8. Day Prague

   This morning's sightseeing tour includes Hradcany Castle, the Cathedral of St. Vitus and Wenceslas Square. Free time to explore - maybe visit the Jewish Quarter or the old town square. (B)

9. Day Prague to Munich

   We skip back to Germany and Bavaria's lively capital Munich - home to the Oktoberfest. Enjoy some of the sights and sounds of the city and perhaps experience the atmosphere of a local beerhall. (B)

10. Day Munich

    A relaxing day where you can explore the shops and museums of this Bavarian beauty. (B,D)

11. Day Munich to Venice

    Today we travel south through Austria and the astonishing beauty of the Brenner Pass to cross the border into Italy. Tonight we stay on the mainland of Venice. (B,D)

12. Day Venice

    A short boat ride takes us into the historical centre of Venice to see St Mark's Square, the Bridge of Sighs and the Doges' Palace. Ample time to wander the bustling streets, see the skill required to create local crafts such as Venetian glass and fine lace and visit one of the many amazing museums. Why not treat yourself to a gondola ride and evening meal with your fellow travellers as a perfect end to your Venetian experience? (B)

13. Day 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. (B)

14. Day Rome

    A full free day to explore the treasures of Rome. Your chance to join a tour through Imperial Rome with a local guide, before time to visit St. Peter's Basilica, the Spanish Steps or check out the shops. (B,D)

15. Day Rome to Florence

    Today we travel north and visit Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower. This evening your first chance to walk the streets of Renaissance Florence. (B,D)

16. Day Florence

    The day includes a walking tour of the Piazza della Signoria, the Duomo and Santa Croce, and a chance to shop for leather, gold and silver. In your free time maybe visit one of the city's many museums or galleries and this evening enjoy the colourful Florentine nightlife. (B)

17. Day Florence to Lucerne

    Enjoy a scenic drive past Milan and Lake Como to Lucerne, in the Swiss Alps. Tonight stay in our special hotel atop Mt. Pilatus (weather conditions permitting). (B,D)

18. Day Lucerne

    Be charmed by medieval Lucerne with its Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument and opportunities to shop for local specialties - watches, chocolate and Swiss army knives. (B)

19. Day 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". (B,D)

20. Day 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? (B)

21. Day 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)