Contiki > European Explorer incl. Cruising - Option 2

European Explorer incl. Cruising - Option 2
35 Days starting from $5,415

Countries Visited:
Albania, Croatia, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom

 

Length: 35 Days
Type: Superior
Category: Regional Europe
Operator: Contiki
Tour Code: CONTIKI116
   
 
About This Tour


Featuring: France, Spain, Monaco, Italy, Vatican City, Greece, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Netherlands, Belgium
Starting In London and ending in London

 
  • What's Included
  • Itinerary
  • Dates & Prices
  • Sightseeing
  • Optionals
  • SPECIALS
Accomodations
* 2 nights in Contiki's special resort hotel, 1 night Adriatic ferry, 26 nights in superior tourist class hotels, 4 nights on board cruise ship * Accommodation based on your choice of twin or triple-share with private facilities * 32 Continental breakfasts (B), 4 lunches (L), 19 three course dinners (D) and 4 suppers (S) as per itinerary * Hotel tips, local taxes and service charges

The Contiki Difference
* Experienced professional Tour Manager & Driver * Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats * Ferry transport as itinerary

Depart for Europe (1 Days)
Your exciting European trip begins.

Arrive London (1 Days)
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.

London to Paris (1 Days)
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?

Paris (1 Days)
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?

Paris to Lyon (1 Days)
South from Paris we pass through beautiful countryside and the famous vineyards of the Burgundy Region. We visit Contiki's own Château de Cruix to taste some of the local wine before travelling on to Lyon. Tonight take the opportunity to taste some authentic French cuisine in this gastronomic capital.

Lyon to Barcelona (1 Days)
Continuing south via the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard, we cross the Spanish border to the Mediterranean city of Barcelona.

Barcelona (1 Days)
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?

Barcelona to French Riviera (1 Days)
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.

French Riviera (1 Days)
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?

French Riviera to Venice (1 Days)
We visit a French perfumery en-route to Italy. Time to stroll around Verona, home of Romeo and Juliet, before we reach our hotel near fairytale Venice.

Venice (1 Days)
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?

Venice to Florence (1 Days)
We wind through the Apennine Mountains towards the world-famous region of Tuscany. An afternoon in the spectacular Renaissance city of Florence where our included walking tour will show you the Duomo, Giotto's belltower, Basilica of Santa Croce & Piazza della Signoria. There's time to shop for local crafts such as gold, silver and leather before an evening of Tuscan cuisine and local nightlife.

Florence to Rome (1 Days)
Today we drive through the Tuscan countryside to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Then, we make our way 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 Pantheon and Piazza Navona. Take time to discover Roman cuisine in a trattoria for a delicious meal with some local wine.

Rome (1 Days)
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).

Rome to Sorrento (1 Days)
After leaving Rome we head south to Naples to board our motor boat to the island of Capri. After exploring the island we rejoin our boat and set sail to nearby Sorrento situated on Italy's stunning Amalfi coast.

Sorrento to Greece (1 Days)
Today a chance to explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii with a local guide. Later we take in the stunning scenery of southern Italy as we travel east to board our overnight ferry to Greece.

To Athens (1 Days)
From Patras we cross the famous Corinth Canal before arriving in historic Athens. This afternoon enjoy an included sightseeing tour with a local guide. The tour incorporates many sights of this ancient city and includes a visit to the Acropolis and Parthenon. Tonight an opportunity to join us for dinner in the lively 'Plaka' district of Athens.

Athens to Mykonos (1 Days)
This morning we leave Athens and board our cruise ship to head to Mykonos - island of whitewashed houses and blue domed churches.

Mykonos to Patmos via Kusadasi (Turkey) (1 Days)
Our early morning call is the Turkish port of Kusadasi. Explore the bazaar or perhaps take an excursion to the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Later we dock at Patmos where St John is reputed to have written the book of Revelation.

Patmos to Rhodes (1 Days)
A full day to explore this island, home to the Colossus of Rhodes. Legend says it was over 30 m (100ft) high and straddled the harbour.

Rhodes to Santorini via Heraklion (Crete) (1 Days)
We dock in Crete, the biggest of the Greek Islands before sailing for Santorini. This spectacular volcanic island is in the Cycladic chain of islands. Enjoy Fira and its narrow paved streets with plenty of opportunity to shop in the many boutiques.

Santorini to Preveza (1 Days)
After breakfast we disembark and make our way to to Corinth before continuing into the mountains to Preveza.

Preveza to Tirana (1 Days)
Leaving Greece behind we head north into Albania. Our drive along the Adriatic coast takes us to Tirana which is the capital of the country and our base for the night.

Tirana to Dubrovnik (1 Days)
Heading north we pass Shkoder before crossing into Montenegro. This afternoon we join the coast, once a favourite retreat of Europe's royalty, and cross into Croatia and on to our accommodation at Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik (1 Days)
Today's sightseeing shows us one of Europe's most breathtaking locations and the jewel of the Croatian coastline, the picturesque walled city of Dubrovnik. In your free time enjoy this UNESCO World Heritage Site by taking a walk along the old town walls or climb up Mt Srj for a panoramic view of the city and stunning coastline.

Dubrovnik to Zadar (1 Days)
We follow the Dalmatian Coast, enjoying the scenic Dalmatian Archipelago that mixes stunning blue waters with the many islands. We pass agricultural fields of lemons and oranges on our way to Split, home to the Roman remains of Diocletian's Palace, with time for lunch. From here we follow the coast north past Sibenik and on to our overnight stop.

Zadar region to Vienna (1 Days)
Heading north we drive through the scenic Paklenica National Park, passing the unusual Sveti Rock. We cross into Slovenia briefly before arriving in the Austrian capital, Vienna.

Vienna (1 Days)
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?

Vienna to Munich (1 Days)
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.

Munich to Lucerne (1 Days)
We stop for lunch in the tiny principality of Liechtenstein before crossing into Switzerland. Arriving in Lucerne, it's time to explore and shop for watches, swiss army knives and of course, chocolate!

Lucerne (1 Days)
Spend the day exploring this beautiful lakeside town. See the Lion Monument, walk across the Chapel Bridge and wander the cobbled streets. See the city at its best by joining us for a trip up a mountain and a cruise on beautiful Lake Lucerne.

Lucerne to Rhine Valley (1 Days)
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.

Rhine Valley to Amsterdam (1 Days)
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.

Amsterdam (1 Days)
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.

Amsterdam to London (1 Days)
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.


To speak to one of our live, experienced travel consultants, Call us now at 1-800-942-3301.

Airfare Disclaimer
A NOTE ABOUT AIRFARE: We encourage you to buy your airfare from the tour operator, because if your tour cancels then your airlines tickets will be covered. Purchasing flights separately at a lesser rate and incorporating it with a Non-Guaranteed Departure Date can result in loss of total cost of your flight investment. Depending on the fare rules, flights may be Non-Refundable and/or Non-Transferable. Neither the tour operator and/or Atlas Cruises & Tours will be held responsible for loss if a tour is cancelled for Lack of Participation. If you would like to check for discounted fares on Guaranteed Departures or for competitive pricing on air and hotel packages, we invite you to follow this link.

Documents
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Necessary Travel Documents such as Passports and Visas is the responsibility of the traveler. Passports must be valid six months from your return travel date.

         
Touring Date
Land Only
Land + Air
Single
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Single
(Land + Air)
5/2/2008 - 6/5/2008
$5,415
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5/9/2008 - 6/12/2008
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5/16/2008 - 6/19/2008
$5,679
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5/23/2008 - 6/26/2008
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5/30/2008 - 7/3/2008
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6/6/2008 - 7/10/2008
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6/20/2008 - 7/24/2008
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6/27/2008 - 7/31/2008
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7/4/2008 - 8/7/2008
$5,955
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7/11/2008 - 8/14/2008
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7/18/2008 - 8/21/2008
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7/25/2008 - 8/28/2008
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8/1/2008 - 9/4/2008
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8/8/2008 - 9/11/2008
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8/15/2008 - 9/18/2008
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8/29/2008 - 10/2/2008
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9/5/2008 - 10/9/2008
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Paris
Evening Tour of Illuminations

Paris
See the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, the Champs Élysées, and Notre Dame Cathedral

Lyon
Visit the old town

Provence
See the Roman Aqueduct at Pont du Gard

Barcelona
See Gaudi's Art Nouveau Cathedral & the 1992 Olympic Games complex

Barcelona
Walk through the Gothic Quarter and La Rambla

French Riviera
Visit a French Perfumery

French Riviera
Scenic Drive along the Riviera coast

French Riviera
Visit Monaco & see the Royal Palace

French Riviera
Visit a Monte Carlo casino

French Riviera
Visit Nice and enjoy the beach

Verona
See Juliet's Balcony & the Roman Arena

Venice
Private motorboat to the historic islands

Venice
See Piazza San Marco, Bridge of Sighs and the Doges' Palace

Venice
Murano glass-blowing & Burano lace-making demonstrations

Pisa
See the Leaning Tower

Florence
Walking tour with a local guide

Florence
See the Duomo, Basilica Santa Croce, Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistry & Piazza della Signoria

Florence
Florentine leather craft demonstration

Rome
See Piazza Venezia, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Colosseum & Roman Forum

Vatican City
See St. Peter's Basilica

Capri
Visit the Isle of Capri

Sorrento
Scenic coastal drive

Corinth
See the Corinth Canal

Athens
Visit the Acropolis and Parthenon with a local guide

Athens
See the first modern Olympic Stadium

Montenegro
Scenic drive along the Adriatic coast

Croatia
Visit Dubrovnik and Split

Croatia
Scenic drive along the Croatian Coastline

Vienna
See Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral & the State Opera House

Vienna
Scenic drive along the historic Ring Road

Mauthausen
Visit the concentration camp

Munich
See the Glockenspiel & Marienplatz

Munich
Visit a beerhall

Liechtenstein
Visit the capital Vaduz

Lucerne
See the Wooden Chapel Bridge

Lucerne
View the Lion Monument

Rhine Valley
Scenic River Cruise

Rhine Valley
See the Lorelei Rock

Amsterdam
Visit a fishing and cheese village

Amsterdam
Bicycle tour of the Dutch countryside

Amsterdam
Visit a cheese farm & clog maker's house

Amsterdam
See the canals, gable houses and city by night

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.

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 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.

T-Shirts
From Euro 18.00 - 28.50
Be inspired by the Italian Masters, or better still let your imagination run wild and create your own group design! A terrific souvenir of your tour.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Restaurant Meal
Euro 34.00
The Circolo dei Forestieri is a superb setting for an evening meal. Dinner is comprised of four courses, including antipasta, pasta, a traditional main course and lemon cake for dessert. Finish it all off with a glass of the local speciality... lemon liquer!

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.

Athens Plaka Meal
Euro 34.00
A night out in the famous Plaka area - we visit a typical Greek Taverna for a three-course meal including local wine. Whilst dining enjoy the show which includes singing, traditional Greek dancers and "Bouzouki" music.

Dubrovnik Cruise
Euro 20.00
A wonderful opportunity to enjoy this Croatian gem from the water. A complimentary drink will be offered to add to your enjoyment.

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.

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.

Mt. Pilatus
SF 48.00
Travel by cablecar or cog railway to the top of Mt. Pilatus, which offers breathtaking views over Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps. Have lunch, relax and then journey down to the foot of the mountain before exploring nearby Lucerne.

Cruise to Lucerne
SF 25.00
Cruise on the lake from the foot of Mt Pilatus to Lucerne. Enjoy the majestic beauty of the wooded mountains and picturesque villages reflecting in the tranquil waters.

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.

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.

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.

CURRENT SPECIALS:

Mix and Match Discounts

Early payment discounts

Offer #1: Save up to US$559

off the cost of your trip when you book and pay in full at least 12 months prior to departure.

Offer #2: Save up to US$279

off the cost of your trip when you book and pay in full at least 6 months prior to departure.

Offer #3: Save up to US$139

off the cost of your trip when you book and pay in full at least 4 months prior to departure.

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Multiple Trip Discounts – Save US$50

You can save an extra $50 when you book a second Contiki tour at the same time of booking your first tour.

* Tours may be in different countries/regions and must be a minimum of 7 days.

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Europe Plus Great Britian – Save US$150

Combine a Contiki Europe vacation at least 25 days long with a Contiki Great Britain tour booked at the same time and get a special US$100 discount. Add that to your US$50 extra tour discount and you’ve saved US$150.

* All discounts apply to land tour price only.

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Group Discounts

Funky Four – Save 5%

Save 5% Our “Funky Four” discount means a 5% saving per person when 4 or more people book at the same time on the same trip.

Super Seven – Save 7.5%

Book a group of 7 people traveling on the same vacation at the same time and get a 7.5% discount per person. Super Seven – Save 7.5%

Perfect 10 – Travel for Free!

Experience Contiki’s Europe with a group of 10 friends booked on the same trip at the same time and the 11th person travels for free or everyone in your group gets 10% off.

* All group discounts apply to land tour price only. Funky 4, Super 7 & Perfect 10 offers cannot be combined together.

Triple Discounts

On most Superior trips we offer a triple reduction of up to 5% on twin share price.

Price Guarantee

As soon as Contiki has received your deposit, the land tour price confirmed to you by Contiki reservations is guaranteed so book and pay your deposit as early as possible! It gives you the best choice and could save you money.

Single Traveler Savings

When traveling alone, you may not want to incur the expense of a single room supplement, so why not share with fellow passengers of the same sex on a ‘twin room’ basis. It is an enjoyable way to travel and make new friends and helps stretch your budget further.


   
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