European Panorama

European Panorama

For a widescreen view of Western Europe, try the European Panorama tour, which takes you through 12 countries. Drinking wine in Bordeaux, eating traditional tapas in Barcelona, beach bumming on the Greek Island of Corfu, bike riding in the Dutch countryside. These are just a few of the activities you have available to you while touring panorama style. Whether you're into art, adventure or just plain relaxing, this tour offers something for everyone.


Length: 30 days
Accommodations: n/a
Meals: Dinner, Breakfast
as per itinerary
Sightseeing: France, Spain, Monaco, Italy, Vatican City, Greece, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Netherlands, Belgium (in transit)
Transportation: Coach, Ferry
Next Tour: September 06, 2008
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Itinerary

  1. Day Icon-day1 Depart for Europe

    Your exciting European trip begins.

  2. Day Icon-day2 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 Icon-day3 London to Paris

    A warm welcome from your Contiki Crew as we head for the White Cliffs of Dover and the Channel crossing to France. We drive past World War I battlefields to the splendour of Paris. What better way to begin than with an evening tour of the "City of Lights" and a first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower?

  4. Day Icon-day4 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?

  5. Day Icon-day5 Paris to Bordeaux

    Our journey south today takes us through the Loire Valley, home to over 3000 Châteaux. See the magnificent Château Chambord and the vineyards which produce many of France's finest wines.

  6. Day Icon-day6 Bordeaux to Barcelona

    This morning we visit Carcassonne, a medieval walled city. We continue south, skim past the Pyrénées and catch our first glimpse of the world-famous Mediterranean before arriving in vibrant Barcelona.

  7. Day Icon-day7 Barcelona

    Our included sightseeing tour is a great introduction to this celebrated city. See Gaudi's Sagrada Familia Cathedral, the 1992 Olympic Complex and the Gothic district. A chance to experience Barcelona's famed shopping street La Rambla and discover some of Spain's specialties. Tonight why not experience the passion of Flamenco dancing?

  8. Day Icon-day8 Barcelona to French Riviera

    We return to France and travel through the fabled region of Provence en route to the Mediterranean city of Nice - the jewel of the French Riviera.

  9. Day Icon-day9 French Riviera

    Rub shoulders with the rich and famous on the Nice promenade, shop for French fashion or laze the day away on the sun-drenched beaches. Tonight we visit Monaco! Why not join us for an elegant meal, view the Royal Palace and take the opportunity to try your luck at the casinos of Monte Carlo?

  10. Day Icon-day10 French Riviera to Florence

    Today we visit a French perfumery before arriving in Italy to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa. We travel past the vineyards and olive groves of Tuscany to the most spectacular of Renaissance cities, Florence.

  11. Day Icon-day11 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.

  12. Day Icon-day12 Florence to Rome

    All roads lead to Rome where our included sightseeing tour is the perfect introduction to the Eternal City. Do as the Romans do and stroll past the Trevi Fountain, the amazing Pantheon and Piazza Navona. Take the time to discover Roman cuisine in a trattoria for a delicious meal with some local wine.

  13. Day Icon-day13 Rome

    Ancient and modern Rome await your discovery. Why not take a guided tour of the Imperial Forum and walk in the footsteps of Gladiators? In your free time explore the Vatican City and Sistine Chapel, snap up Italian fashions or just watch the world go by with a gelato (or two).

  14. Day Icon-day14 Rome to Corfu

    A chance to take a guided tour of the ancient city of Pompeii as we travel across Italy to board our overnight ferry to Greece.

  15. Day Icon-day15 Icon-day16 Icon-day17 Corfu

    Spend your days on this fabulous Greek Island relaxing beside the hotel pool, working on your tan or cruising along the coast on a traditional Greek boat. At night an opportunity to visit a local taverna, try some Greek specialities and maybe dance to the sound of Zorba!

  16. Day Icon-day18 Corfu to Italy

    A full day and night cruise across the Adriatic back to Italy. Relax and enjoy the boat's facilities.

  17. Day Icon-day19 Arrive Venice

    Our spectacular morning arrival into the port of Venice is one of Europe's most impressive sights. After docking we make our way to Verona, home of Romeo and Juliet. Time to wander through this beautiful town before we make our way to our hotel near the fabled city of Venice.

  18. Day Icon-day20 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?

  19. Day Icon-day21 Venice to Vienna

    We drive through gently rolling countryside, past picture-postcard villages and majestic mountains into the home of Mozart and Strauss for an evening experiencing the classical tastes and sounds of this city.

  20. Day Icon-day22 Vienna

    Our sightseeing tour takes in the grandeur of the Palace of the Hapsburgs, the fame of the State Opera House and fashionable Kartnerstrasse. Take time to wander at leisure and why not try some local schnaps, strudel or a schnitzel?

  21. Day Icon-day23 Vienna to Munich

    On to Bavaria's lively capital Munich, home to the Oktoberfest. View sights such as the animated Glockenspiel, stroll through the shopping streets and take the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of a local beerhall.

  22. Day Icon-day24 Munich to Austrian Tyrol

    A scenic drive through the Bavarian Alps takes us into the heart of the Austrian Tyrol. Take the opportunity to go white water rafting in the Austrian Alps before relaxing in this idyllic region.

  23. Day Icon-day25 Austrian Tyrol to Lucerne

    We stop for lunch in the tiny Principality of Liechtenstein before crossing into Switzerland, the home of chocolate! A very special treat as we take the cable car or cog railway for breathtaking views from our resort on top of Mt Pilatus, the highest hotel in Europe.

  24. Day Icon-day26 Lucerne

    Spend the day exploring this beautiful lakeside town. See the Lion Monument, walk across the Chapel Bridge and wander the cobbled streets shopping for watches, chocolate and Swiss Army knives. The best way to appreciate the spectacular scenery is on a lake cruise - why not join us on one this afternoon?

  25. Day Icon-day27 Lucerne to Rhine Valley

    We follow the mighty Rhine River north into Germany. Take in the picturesque Rhine Valley on our included river cruise before learning how beersteins are crafted in the village of St Goar.

  26. Day Icon-day28 Rhine Valley to Amsterdam

    We continue north along the Rhine River and cross the border into the Netherlands. Enjoy a visit to a cheese farm and see clogs being made before we check in to our hotel. Tonight your first taste of Amsterdam's famous nightlife.

  27. Day Icon-day29 Amsterdam

    Visit the cheese village of Edam on a bicycle tour of the Dutch countryside. Spend your free time wandering along the canals, shopping or visiting famous museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank's House.

  28. Day Icon-day30 Amsterdam to London

    After breakfast, there will be a transfer for you to Schipol 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.

Tour Map

Highlights

All these highlights along with city sightseeing are included in your tour price!

Included
  • Paris: Evening Tour of Illuminations; See the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, the Champs Élysées, and Notre Dame Cathedral
  • Loire Valley: Scenic drive to see Château de Chambord
  • Carcassone: Visit the hilltop walled city
  • Barcelona: See Gaudi's Art Nouveau Cathedral & the 1992 Olympic Games complex; Walk through the Gothic Quarter and La Rambla
  • French Riviera: Visit a French Perfumery; Scenic Drive along the Riviera coast; Visit Monaco & see the Royal Palace; Visit a Monte Carlo casino; Visit Nice and enjoy the beach
  • Pisa: See the Leaning Tower
  • Florence: Walking tour with a local guide; See the Duomo, Basilica Santa Croce, Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistry & Piazza della Signoria; Florentine leather craft demonstration
  • Rome: See Piazza Venezia, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Colosseum & Roman Forum
  • Vatican City: See St. Peter's Basilica
  • Corfu: Visit the old town
  • Adriatic: Mini cruise
  • Verona: See Juliet's Balcony & the Roman Arena
  • Venice: Private motorboat to the historic islands; See Piazza San Marco, Bridge of Sighs and the Doges' Palace; Murano glass-blowing & Burano lace-making demonstrations
  • Vienna: See Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral & the State Opera House; Scenic drive along the historic Ring Road
  • Mauthausen: Visit the concentration camp
  • Munich: See the Glockenspiel & Marienplatz; Visit a beerhall
  • Austrian Tyrol: See this picturesque area, famous for adventure sports
  • Liechtenstein: Visit the capital Vaduz
  • Lucerne: See the Wooden Chapel Bridge; Cable car or cog railway ride up Mount Pilatus (subject to weather conditions); View the Lion Monument
  • Rhine Valley: Scenic River Cruise; See the Lorelei Rock
  • Amsterdam: See the canals, gable houses and city by night; Bicycle tour of the Dutch countryside; Visit a cheese farm & clog maker's house
Accomodations
  • 4 nights in Contiki’s special Resort Hotels, 22 nights in superior tourist class hotels, 1 night on overnight ferry, 1 night (mini) cruise
  • Accommodation based on your choice of twin or triple-share with private facilities
  • 27 Continental breakfasts (B) and 14 three-course dinners (D) as per itinerary
  • Hotel tips, local taxes and service charges
Contiki Difference
  • Experienced, professional Tour Manager and Driver
  • Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats
  • Ferry transport as itinerary

Optional Excursions

Paris

Moulin Rouge (Euro 130.00)
Enjoy an evening at the world famous Moulin Rouge cabaret. The spectacular show includes dancing girls, dazzling costumes, live animals and a variety of comedy acts. A sumptuous three course meal (including drinks and champagne during the show) will make this an unforgettable evening.

Barcelona

Tablao de Carmen (Euro 56.00)
Tonight's restaurant is located right in the Andalucian Quarter of El Pueblo Espanol on the mountain of Montjuic. Enjoy typical Andaluz cuisine, Rioja and of course the unforgettable Flamenco show.

Monaco

Monaco Restaurant (Euro 34.00)
Tonight's restaurant is located two minutes walk from the Royal Palace - the official residence of the Grimaldi family. Dine in style and enjoy a typically French, four course meal with wine in this glamourous location.

Florence

Souvenir Group Photo (Euro 11.50)
A photo of you and all of your new friends is the perfect souvenir from your tour. The photo will be taken with a panorama of Florence in the background or in one of the city's famous piazzas.
Tuscan Evening (Euro 38.00)
'La Certosa' is a charming 16th Century building set in the scenic Tuscan hills. It's the venue for our truly traditional Tuscan evening. Begin with a cocktail and an excellent antipasta buffet. Next is delicious freshly made pasta and a wonderfully aromatic main course - all washed down with some local Chianti wine. Entertainment is also on tonight's menu with a pianist to set the mood and an opera singer to serenade you. A truly special evening.
Space Electronic Disco (Euro 12.00)
A chance to dance the night away at Florence's largest night-spot. Your first drink is included in the price and will get you started for an evening of fun. Enjoy the great music and maybe take the opportunity to show off your karaoke skill.

Rome

Guided Imperial Tour (Euro 23.00 (10-19 people) / Euro 22.00 (20+ people))
Join a local guide for an excursion back in time. You'll wander across the cobbled stones of the Roman Forum, marvel at the Colosseum and learn why the glory of Imperial Rome still stands out in the history of western culture. Price includes entry into Forum and Colosseum.

Pompeii

Guided Tour of Ancient Pompeii (Euro 18.00 (20-34 people)/ Euro 17.00 (35+ people))
The once thriving city of Pompeii lay buried for centuries under thick layers of ash which rained down after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. It was rediscovered in the 17th Century and two-thirds of the city has now been excavated. A local guide takes you to the important sites and explains the history of this fascinating city.

Corfu

George's Boat (Euro 30.00)
Don't miss out on this superb full day trip - it's a great opportunity to get an off-shore view of Corfu's idyllic scenery. We sail up the East Coast, make frequent stops and also drop anchor at a lively seaside resort. A delicious lunch including fresh bread, dips and salads is included to give you energy for a day of fun.
Watersports (From Euro 18.00 - 45.00)
Parasailing, water skiing and donut rides are just a few of the great activities available today at Dassia Beach.
Car Hire (Euro 55.00-155.00 (cost per day depending on car))
Why not hire a car and explore this beautiful island and it's beaches? Drive along the coastline, or head inland and discover mountain villages along the way. A day cruising around Corfu will definitely be one of the highlights of your time in Greece. Daily hire rates vary depending on the type/size of car your choose and will be explained by our local Contiki Representative.
Dinner & Greek Dancing (Euro 32.00)
Taverna, Retsina and Zorba - it'll certainly be all Greek to you by the end of the evening. Try tasty local specialities such as taramasalata, tzatziki and roast lamb on the spit. Enjoy a colourful and lively folklore show during which you're bound to learn a few Greek steps - all to the sound of bouzouki!
T-Shirts (From Euro 18.00 - 25.00)
Be inspired by the Greek Gods, or better still let your imagination run wild and create your own group design! A terrific souvenir of your tour.

Venice

Gondola Ride (Euro 21.00)
No trip to Venice is complete without a ride on the canals in a world-famous gondola. Take in the sights, savour every minute and treasure this truly memorable Venetian experience.
Venetian Restaurant (Euro 29.00)
Our chosen venue guarantees a warm and friendly welcome in true Venetian fashion. You'll enjoy a superb selection of local specialities and some local wine, making it an unforgettable evening in one of the most romantic cities in the world.

Vienna

Dinner and Mozart Concert (Euro 61.00)
Taste the culture of Austria with a truly memorable Mozart and Strauss concert in one of Vienna's most famous concert halls. The show is peformed by a small orchestra and singers in full costume and is the perfect introduction to this 'City of Music'. You'll also enjoy a traditional Viennese meal in a delightful restaurant in the Vienna Town Hall.
Old Vienna Schnaps Museum (Euro 6.00)
Founded in 1875 by the Fischer family, this distillery still uses traditional methods when producing schnaps, brandies and liqueurs. The owners will explain the methods of schnaps making and show you the variety of ingredients they use (without giving away their secrets). Finish up by sampling their wonderful creations.

Austrian Tyrol

White Water Rafting (Euro 38.00)
Experience the thrills of white water rafting in the most picturesque setting imaginable! You'll travel through rapids in the company of your tour mates and a highly professional rafting team. Full equipment (including safety helmets and wet suits) is included in the cost (white water rafting is normally available from May to September).

Lucerne

Swiss Fondue Lunch & Folklore Show (SF 49.00)
If you've ever wanted to try authentic Fondue in Switzerland then this is the perfect opportunity! Enjoy a three-course lunch including cheese Fondue, traditional rösti potatoes and Swiss Bratwurst while listening to the sounds of Alpine horns, yodelling and cow bells. Our chosen venue is a warm Swiss Inn located in the centre of beautiful Lucerne.
Cruise to Mt. Pilatus (SF 25.00)
Cruise on the lake from Lucerne to the cog rail for Mt Pilatus, enjoying the majestic beauty of the wooded mountains and picturesque villages reflecting in the tranquil waters.

St. Goar

Wine Tasting (Euro 8.00)
A chance to sample and learn about some of the most famous wines of the Rhine region of Germany. There's also the opportunity to purchase some of your favourites! Don't leave your tasting glass behind - it's yours to keep.

Amsterdam

Volendam Restaurant (Euro 31.00)
Van den Hogen restaurant is located on the seafront of this quaint fishing village. It provides the perfect setting for a traditional 'Old Dutch' style meal and the atmosphere makes it a night to remember.
Canal Cruise (Euro 28.00)
A cruise on Amsterdam's world-famous canals is the perfect way to see this wonderful city. You'll pass many famous sights including Dutch gabled houses, the Anne Frank house, churches and the Red Light District. The included beer, wine, soft-drinks and snacks will make your evening complete.