Mediterranean Highlights (Start Madrid)

Accomodations
* 12 nights twin or triple share hotel accommodation * 12 continental breakfasts (B) & 6 three-course dinners (D) as per itinerary * Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges

The Contiki Difference
* Experienced, professional Tour Manager & Driver * Transport in a modern, air-conditioned coach * Sightseeing tours of all major cities * Free Contiki Travellers Guide * Free Contiki document wallet

Depart for Europe ( Days)
Jet off to the trip of a lifetime awaiting you in Europe!

Arrive Madrid (Dinner Days)
Check in to your hotel and head straight out into the Spanish capital. Get ready for Madrid’s high energy lifestyle. Moving to a whole lot of different beats, Madrid is packed with diverse barrios (neighbourhoods), lively plazas and a healthy nightlife. Later, meet up with your fellow travellers and your Tour Manager, who knows Madrid’s ins and outs.

Madrid (Breakfast Days)
This morning, get inspired as your Tour Manager opens up Madrid’s monumental heart with a look at its bustling centre, complete with the Gran Via, the Plaza de Espana and Puerta del Sol. Then, step into the largest palace in Europe with our Local Guide and experience a slice of the royal lifestyle as our expert shows you through the Royal Palace’s lavish rooms. If there’s a state function happening, we’ll head to the world-famous Prado Museum instead. There’s a chance to explore the Valley of the Fallen where our Local Guide will tell you the story about the bloody Spanish Civil War and give you the background on heroic battles. In your free time, snack on the local favourite, churros (Spain’s version of the doughnut) or grab a chilled cerveza (beer) and put your feet up. Otherwise there’s time to explore more of Madrid’s arty side and to visit its world class galleries, like the Reina Sofia National Art Museum. Relax with an evening siesta and head out with the group later for an optional traditional Spanish tapas dinner (a feast of plate sized nibbles) in the heart of the city, right on the famous Plaça Mayor. This city never sleeps, so get some pointers on the city’s hot spots, head to a little wine bar or check out some traditional salsa.

Madrid to Barcelona (Breakfast, Dinner Days)
Chill-out on the coach, grab your MP3 and watch the world go by. Heading towards the coast, we roll on to the baroque city of Zaragoza, set on the banks of the Rio Ebro. Check out the town’s fantastic cathedral, with its colourfully tiled cupolas and towers. For lunch, you could grab a table in the casco (old town), order a traditional Spanish tortilla and take in the unique, historic architecture and atmosphere. Next up: dynamic Barcelona. A sizzling, festive capital any night of the week, Barcelona is all about action. In Spain fiesta time starts late, so settle in at one of Barcelona’s many outdoor squares to enjoy a glass of sangria before a fun night out exploring the city’s nightlife with your new friends.

Barcelona (Breakfast Days)
First stop: Mt Juic. The hilltop has a full-blown vista of the city and it’s where we’ll stop to check out the 1992 Olympic Games complex. Afterwards, get a look into the wild imagination of the famous Spanish architect Gaudi with the art nouveau masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia cathedral. Your Tour Manager walks you through the cobbled lanes of Barcelona’s oldest district, the Gothic Quarter. There’s time to discover more of Barcelona’s creative core. Pick up some quirky buys in the side streets or hit the big label shops on Plaça de Catalunya. Take in all of Barcelona’s buzzing street life on the tree-lined La Rambla – a boulevard packed with street performers, artists, shops and stalls. Other ideas for your afternoon off include hanging out in the colourful gardens of Parc Guell or kicking back with the locals on the beach and taking a swim in the Mediterranean Sea. There’s plenty of delicious local seafood to try like Spain’s signature dish, paella. Tonight’s optional dinner and show is a perfect way to finish off your time in this hot city and a chance to get into the local flavours with a Flamenco dance performance and some sangria. Afterwards, get some tips on Barcelona’s hottest spots and maybe hit the pumping clubs of Port Olympico, by the water.

Barcelona to Avignon (Breakfast, Dinner Days)
Unwind on the coach and take in the rustic beauty of Provence, known for its pretty landscapes of lavender, sunflowers and wild herbs. A night in Avignon means you’ll get a real taste of the Provencal lifestyle and look into the town’s Roman heritage. Wander through the cobbled streets or relax with a glass of pastis (aniseed liqueur) within the city’s walls. Learn about the city’s past as a spiritual superpower when you see the impressive Papal Palace.

Avignon to French Riviera (Breakfast Days)
Drop by stunning Aix-en-Provence for lunch and check out the historic Cours Mirabeau, the town’s lively central area,busy with cafes, fountains and people. Then it’s back on the road to the rugged coast line of the stunning Cote d’Azur. Follow the beautiful sapphire waters past the movie-star glamour of Cannes (famous for its annual film festival), to sunny Nice. En route there’s a stop on the Riviera, home to the French perfume industry, at Fragonard Perfumery. Learn about how perfume is made and some of its more surprising ingredients. It’s also a chance to pick up a bottle or 2 at great prices. Tonight get a taste of the high life in Monaco, the glamourous principality packed into just 1.92km2 and home to the Formula 1. Indulge in a bit of glitz with the group by opting for a typically French 4-course meal just a few doors down from the Royal Palace. Get the inside story on the royal family and their place of residence from your Tour Manager. Try your luck at a casino later on.

French Riviera (Breakfast, Dinner Days)
In your free time live a bit of the lifestyle with a visit to the local markets. Try out the region’s produce like lavender honey, aioli (garlic mayonnaise) and mouth-watering rosé wine. Window shop the chic boutiques or choose a beach and catch some sun among all the bronzed bodies!

French Riviera to Pisa (Breakfast, Dinner Days)
Today, journey to the national park and UNESCO World Heritage site of Cinque Terre, where colourful coastal villages dot 18 kilometres of ragged cliffs and old walled vineyards reach the water’s edge. As we cruise (if the weather holds) and train along the coast, take in the atmospheric scenes and watch the locals fishing along the shore. Rub shoulders with the rich and famous in Portovenere and check out picture-perfect Riomaggiore and Monterosso. Some ideas for your free time in the area include walking the legendary Via dell’Amore (Lover’s lane) for amazing sea views. If you want to just chill out and get into the good life, grab a table at a beachfront cafe and try some mouthwatering pesto or foccacia bread.

Pisa to Florence (Breakfast, Dinner Days)
This morning, take advantage of free time in Pisa and get up close to its most famous monument, the Leaning Tower. Roll on to Renaissance Florence. The scene-stealing Duomo cathedral rises above Florence, which serves up frescoes, markets and priceless art. Take a look into a skillful demonstration of Florentine leather making and understand this region’s traditional art. After dinner, walk along the River Arno with your Tour Manager, take in the atmosphere and head into the heart of Florence, where you can sit back and relax Tuscan style with a glass of chianti wine.

Florence (Breakfast Days)
Jump start the day uncovering this open-air museum. Our local guide gives you the inside track as the group learns about Florence’s cultural beginnings and explores streets crammed with artworks from masters like Michelangelo. With bargains and bustle, the city’s markets are a great place to hang out. Grab a gelato and enjoy this gorgeous city. Tonight, there’s a choice of a group dinner - an authentic Tuscan feast. Try regional dishes in the pretty Tuscan country setting. Then keep it moving with a night out and get your groove on at Florence’s biggest club.

Florence to Rome (Breakfast Days)
Today, we get out into the fabulous Tuscan countryside, known for its iconic cypress trees and delicious olive oil. Spend the morning in San Gimignano, the stunning hill-top town that is often dubbed “medieval manhattan”. Dotted with ancient towers, San Gimignano serves up sweeping views over the region’s rolling hills. Explore the village and pick up some local specialities like wild-boar salami or percorino cheese. Next up: vibrant Rome. Stylish Rome oozes energy and overflows with relics from another age. Get into the thriving atmosphere of this living timeline as your Tour Manager shows you the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Piazza Venezia and Piazza Navona. Honour tradition at the Trevi Fountain and throw a coin in the fountain’s waters (it’s meant to improve your chances of returning to Rome!). Maybe hang out with your new friends at the Spanish Steps, sit back with a few slices of pizza and people-watch.

Rome (Breakfast Days)
This morning, make the most of our Local Guide’s inside knowledge and uncover the remains of an ancient empire with a fantastic optional tour of the Roman Forum and Colosseum. Then check-out the smallest country in the world and home to the Pope, the Vatican City. There’s included entry and our Local Guide to show you St Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel. Take off into the city and absorb the atmosphere, as vespas flash past timeworn monuments that are surrounded by fountains, pizzerias, cafes and bars. In your free time, live the local lifestyle by indulging in a long lunch on a paved piazza or knock back a shot of espresso at the bar, like the Romans do. Before you hit the shops, let your Tour Manager point you in the right direction with some tips on the best buys. Make your last night on tour special by hooking up with your friends for an optional dinner. In a typical Roman restaurant, you’ll enjoy an authentic Italian experience, complete with an opera singer, live music and pasta. But don’t stop there – afterwards dive into Rome’s night action with your buddies and finish up your travels with a night to remember.

Depart Rome (Breakfast Days)
The tour ends after breakfast and it’s time to say “arrivederci” to your new friends.

Don't miss our current specials: $150 off Europe Trips of 8 days or more Save $300 on Airfare - Find out how Book a Contiki to Europe & save $300 on airfare per couple. They've got deals for solo travelers also. Valid for new bookings made between March 1st-30th only and must pay air portion in full by March 30, 2010.  Offer is valid for $300 off airfare per couple or $150 off if single traveler.  All travel myst be completed by NOv 30, 2010.  Offer is valid on major airlines.  Air tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable after purchase.  Once payment is received, 100% cancellation penalties apply.  No name changes allowed once a reservation is made.  Offer is subject to availability at the time of booking.  Offer can be combined with all brochure discounts and $150 Spring Flin tour promo.  Promotion can be withdrawn at any time.   CONTIKI MILITARY DISCOUNT 5% Off for Military Members and Spouses... Valid for any Contiki trip 8 days or longer. Active or non-active members are eligible, as long as a valid military ID is provided for each person applying the discount. Mention promo code MILITARY0910 to redeem. Applies to new bookings only. Verification is required. Good for travel through 12/31/2010 Spouses must be traveling at the same time as the military member to apply the discount. Other restrictions may apply. 5% off for Contiki Alumni So you've experienced your Contiki and are ready to go again?  You lived it up with travelers from around the world and want more Contiki.  Now book another trip 8 days or longer and get 5% off! Offer valid through August 31, 2010. Valid for trips 8 days or longer. Please call uoo-942-3301 for more details. Verification of previous trip required. Travel With Friends and Save Big! Save 5% Get 4 or more people to book at the same time and each save 5% off the land. Save 7.5% Book 7 or more on the same vacation at the same time and score a 7.5% discount per person. Round up 10 friends or more, booking the same trip at the same time, and each person saves 10% OR the 11th person travels for FREE. Book 3 in a room and save 5% on most superior tours. Early Payment and Other Amazing Contiki Discounts Early Payment Discount Offer #1: Save up to US$399 Must book and pay in full at least 12 months prior to trip departure date. Valid for select trips only.   Offer #2: Save up to US$319 Must book and pay in full at least 6 months prior to departure date. Valid for select trips only.   Multiple Trip Discounts - Save $100 Book any 2 Contiki trips 10 days or longer, at the same time & get up to US$100 off the cost of the second tour. Europe Europe – Save US$100 Europe America – Save US$100 Europe + Great Britain – Save US$100 Tours may be in different countries or regions. Australia & New Zealand - Save $100 Book an Australia and New Zealand vacation at the same time and save US$100 off the total cost. Tours must be a minimum of 10 days.   Refer a Friend and You Both Save $100 Share the love! Now that you’ve traveled Contiki and had a great time, it’s time to spread the word and earn some cash! Tell your friends about Contiki and earn up to $100* for each person you refer that books. Your friends score from the deal too – each one that books a trip eight days or longer will receive $100 in excursion vouchers (good for activities like bungee jumping, gondola cruises and wine tasting). You can refer up to 10 friends (which equals $1,000 for you!) Simply complete this form and you're on your way. Remember, no cheating ("me, myself and I" do not qualify.) Terms and Conditions: 1.The referral program is valid for new trips booked as of May 1, 2009. 2.You can refer as many passengers as you’d like! You must provide valid names and e-mail addresses (e.g. you may not enter your own e-mail address or repeat the same address more than once). We will issue up to 10 $100 gift cards per Referrer per calendar year. Referees must be new passengers. Not combinable with Past Passenger discount. 3.Referee must between 18-35 years old at the time of travel. 4.Referee must have been referred online and must mention "Refer a Friend" and Referrer's name when booking their trip. 5.Upon booking their trip, the Referee will receive in their travel documentation $100 in Optional Excursion vouchers. The original Optional Excursion vouchers can be redeemed while on their trip and cannot be exchanged for cash reimbursement. 6.The Referred passenger(s) are responsible for reviewing their travel documentation and making sure they received the Optional Excursion Vouchers prior to their departure from the United States. Contiki will not issue a cash refund to passenger(s) for any Optional Excursion because the Referred passenger(s) paid the tour manager directly, forgot to pack or bring the vouchers on the tour, did not use the entire value of the vouchers, looses the vouchers, or advises us after their travel that they did not receive the vouchers. 7.If booking is made within 14 days of the departure, we cannot guarantee receipt of physical vouchers unless traveler expedites their documents at an additional cost. Scanned copies are not available 8.Contiki is not responsible if a Referrer fails to properly identify a Referee. Contiki will not retroactively record a friend who was not identified at the time of sign-up. 9.Contiki will not allow a Referee to be claimed by more than one Referrer. Once a Referee’s e-mail address has been given, it may not be changed. 10.Cash will be given out in the form of a gift card from a major credit card company with a value of $100. Gift card will be issued to Referrer only after Referee completes travel on their trip of 8 days or longer. If a Referee cancels for any reason, the referral reward is forfeited. 11.Offer is not valid for tour purchases made outside the U.S. 12.Contiki reserves the right to resolve any disputes at its sole discretion. $100 Referral cash will be received as a $100 American Express cash gift card.
Touring Date	Land Only	Land + Air	Single (Land Only)	Single (Land + Air)
5/21/2010 - 6/3/2010	$2,209
6/4/2010 - 6/17/2010	$2,209
6/18/2010 - 7/1/2010	$2,209
7/2/2010 - 7/15/2010	$2,259
7/9/2010 - 7/22/2010	$2,259
7/16/2010 - 7/29/2010	$2,259
7/23/2010 - 8/5/2010	$2,259
7/30/2010 - 8/12/2010	$2,259
8/6/2010 - 8/19/2010	$2,209
8/13/2010 - 8/26/2010	$2,065
8/27/2010 - 9/9/2010	$2,065
9/10/2010 - 9/23/2010	$2,209
9/24/2010 - 10/7/2010	$2,209
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.

Madrid
Tour of the Royal Palace with a local guide (Tour of the Royal Palace may be substitutued with a tour of the Prado if the Palace is closed for an official state function)

Zaragoza
See the monumental cathedral

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

Barcelona
Walk through the Gothic Quarter and La Rambla

Avignon
See the Papal Palace

Aix-en-Provence
See the Cours Mirabelle

Paris
Visit a French Perfumery

French Riviera
Scenic drive along the Cote d'Azur

French Riviera
Visit Monaco & see the Royal Palace

French Riviera
Visit a Monte Carlo casino

French Riviera
Visit Nice and enjoy the beach

Cinque Terre
Visit Monterosso, Portovenere and La Spezia

Cinque Terre
Cruise (weather permitting) along the scenic coast

Pisa
See the Leaning Tower

Prague
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

Cesky Krumlov
Visit the medieval town

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

Vatican City
See St. Peter's Basilica

$150 off Europe Trips of 8 days or more

Save $300 on Airfare - Find out how

CONTIKI MILITARY DISCOUNT

5% off for Contiki Alumni

Travel With Friends and Save Big!

Early Payment and Other Amazing Contiki Discounts

Refer a Friend and You Both Save $100

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