London to Athens (Standard, Start Paris, 17 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a 17-day journey that will take you through the heart of Europe, from the bustling streets of London to the ancient ruins of Athens. This multi-day tour is designed to immerse you in the rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes of some of Europe's most iconic destinations. You'll explore world-renowned cities, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, taste local delicacies, and even have the chance to craft your own signature fragrance. Whether you're marveling at the architectural wonders of Paris, savoring the finest wines in Beaujolais, or getting lost in the romantic canals of Venice, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Accommodation, meals, and activities are all meticulously planned to ensure a seamless and enriching travel experience.
Included
4 Dinner (D)
16 Breakfast (B)
1 Picnic Lunch (PL)
Coach and Ferry
11 nights in Hostels, 2 nights in Hotel, 2 nights in Special Stay, 1 night in Overnight Ferry
Expert Trip Manager + Driver Team + Local Guides
Dover: See the iconic chalk-white coastline. So special that it’s had songs dedicated to it.
Paris: Take a dreamy stroll across the charming streets and famous spots in Paris. Bet this is what your insta-profile was craving!
Beaujolais: Be a VIP at the epic Contiki Château and fill up on a banquet of classic French dishes and wines. Ooh la la!
Beaujolais: Enjoy a French-style picnic while admiring the gorgeous Beaujolais countryside.
Beaujolais: Clear out the cobwebs and get in touch with you zen side with a guided yoga session on the sweeping lawns of the château.
Barcelona: Combat boots at the ready, folks! Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas are so cool, you won’t know what to photograph first!
Barcelona: We’ll check out the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s world-renowned masterpiece. Work began on the church in the 1880s and while it was technically never finished, it’s still a wonder to behold.
Arles: Visit the historic city of Arles, famous for inspiring the paintings of Van Gogh.
Monaco City: Walk in the footsteps of Grace Kelly at the Royal Palace and see the Monte Carlo Casino (where the car park looks like a Fast & Furious set).
French Riviera: Glide through the winding coastal roads of the French Riviera with your Contiki crew.
Nice: Your chance to learn the art of fragrance at a French perfume house. You know it makes scents! (soz).
Venice: Speed across the lagoon to the aqueous island of Venice.
Pisa: Your ultimate chance to ‘hold the tower up’ as you pose for that classic Insta snap.
Rome: Stroll around the Italian capital, ticking off some sights on your bucket list!
Amalfi Coast: Definitely one for the bucket list. Your chance to view one of Europe’s active volcanoes from a distance.
Corinth Canal: The world’s deepest canal is an epic sight. It was carved through the rock, as a link between the Aegean and Ionian Seas.
Athens: Even if you’re not a sports nut, this is probably the most iconic Olympic stadium in the world and you won’t want to miss it.
Athens: Walk in the footsteps of Gods and Goddesses, as you take a guided tour around the Ancient Greek monuments and explore the Parthenon temple.
Destinations
Calais
Rome
Florence
Paris
Barcelona
London
Athens
VeniceMap
Attractions
Trevi Fountain
Corinth Canal
Acropolis Museum
Louvre Museum
Sacré-Cœur
Peyragudes Les Agudes
Amphitheatre of Pompeii
Piazza della Sala
Montjuïc Castle
Pantheon
Colosseum
Montjuïc
Musée de Montmartre
Parthenon
Leaning Tower of PisaDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: London to Paris
- London
- Paris
- Calais - Arrival day
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Kick off your European adventure in London before setting your sights on Paris. En route, marvel at the stunning White Cliffs of Dover and soak in the history of World War I battlefields in the Valley of the Somme. Upon arrival in Paris, immerse yourself in the city's magic, indulge in local delights, and explore iconic sights.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Paris
- Paris
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- Louvre Museum
- Versailles cathedral
- Musée de Montmartre
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Spend the day strolling the beautiful streets of Paris. Visit the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, get artsy at the Louvre, and wander down the hill of Montmartre. Indulge in a French meal with your travel companions and consider catching a cabaret show for a memorable Parisian night.
Day 3 – Day 3: Paris to Beaujolais
- Paris
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Bid adieu to Paris as we journey through Burgundy's wine country to the green hills and vineyards of Beaujolais. Upon arrival, visit a local wine cuvage to taste the region's renowned wines. Then, enjoy a royal feast at our Château accommodation.
Day 4 – Day 4: Beaujolais
Day 4: Beaujolais
Spend a full day in the picturesque Beaujolais region. Start your day with optional sunrise yoga in the Château's gardens, relax with a coffee and croissant in the courtyard, or lounge by the pool. The highlight of the day is a picnic in the stunning gardens, complete with panoramic views and local red wine.
Day 5 – Day 5: Beaujolais to Barcelona
- Barcelona
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- Peyragudes Les Agudes
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Bid farewell to Beaujolais and set off for Barcelona. As we cross the border into Spain, enjoy the stunning views of the Pyrénées mountains. Upon arrival in Barcelona, indulge in a delicious Spanish feast and explore the city's rich culture and vibrant nightlife.
Day 6 – Day 6: Exploring Barcelona
- Barcelona
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- Montjuïc Castle
- Montjuïc
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Spend the day exploring the cobbled lanes of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, taking in the vistas from Montjuic hill, and admiring the city's unique architecture. Enjoy some free time to swim in the Mediterranean or join an evening of Flamenco fun.
Day 7 – Day 7: Barcelona to French Riviera via Arles
- Barcelona
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Leave Barcelona behind as we journey through the picturesque landscapes of lavender, sunflowers, and wild herbs in France. Stop in Arles for a glimpse of an ancient Roman Arena and a typical provincial French town. Then, continue to the glamorous French Riviera, where you can frolic like an A-lister.
Day 8 – Day 8: French Riviera to Monaco
- Monaco
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- Musée du Palais Lascaris
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Spend the day exploring the French Riviera, famous for its lavender honey, aioli, and rosé wine. In the evening, head to Monaco where you can try your luck at the Monte Carlo Casino and visit the Royal Palace. After a night of glamour, return to the coast for a good night's sleep.
Day 9 – Day 9: French Riviera to Venice via Perfumery
- Venice
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Bid farewell to the French Riviera and head to Italy, taking in the sights of Liguria, Lombardia, and the Veneto regions. En route, stop at a French perfumery to learn how your favorite scents are made and even craft your own signature fragrance. Arrive in Venice, the city of gondolas and canals, for a restful night.
Day 10 – Day 10: Exploring Venice
- Venice
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- Venetian Arsenal
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Spend the entire day exploring the enchanting city of Venice. Hop aboard a private boat to navigate the city's famous canals and get lost in its magical maze. You can also learn to be a Gondolieri or simply hop between Venice's coolest restaurants and enjoy a gondola ride.
Day 11 – Day 11: Venice to Florence via Pisa
- Venice
- Florence
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- Leaning Tower of Pisa
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Leave Venice behind and head to Florence, with a detour to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Upon arrival in Florence, immerse yourself in the city's charm as you walk along the River Arno, savor a drop of Chianti wine, and marvel at the city's stunning Duomo.
Day 12 – Day 12: Exploring Florence
- Florence
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- Piazza della Sala
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Spend the day exploring Florence, a city bursting with heritage and delicious flavors. Opt for a guided walking tour, visit the local markets, or simply enjoy some gelato. In the evening, learn how to make the perfect pizza at a local restaurant and savor your culinary masterpiece.
Day 13 – Day 13: Florence to Rome
- Florence
- Rome
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- Trevi Fountain
- Piazza Navona
- Pantheon
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Leave Florence behind and set your sights on Rome. Upon arrival, visit some of the city's iconic landmarks, including the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. Enjoy a glass of red wine at a local trattoria as you soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Day 14 – Day 14: Exploring Rome
- Rome
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- Colosseum
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Spend the day exploring Rome at your own pace. Visit the Colosseum, enjoy an espresso while people-watching, or indulge in local delicacies like pasta, gelato, and caprese salad. Don't forget to wash it all down with a glass of local red wine.
Day 15 – Day 15: Rome to Athens via Pompeii
- Rome
- Athens
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- Amphitheatre of Pompeii
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Bid farewell to Rome and head to Pompeii, an archaeological site that was once a bustling Roman city. Opt for a guided tour to step back in time and learn about the city's history. Then, board a boat to Athens, where you'll wake up in a brand new country.
Day 16 – Day 16: Athens
- Athens
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- Corinth Canal
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Arrive in Athens, a city that beautifully blends ancient wonders with modern magnificence. Catch a glimpse of the Corinth Canal as you make your way to the city. Spend the evening sampling traditional Greek food and exploring the city's vibrant nightlife.
Day 17 – Day 17: Exploring Athens
- Athens - Departure day
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- Acropolis Museum
- Parthenon
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Spend your final day exploring Athens with a local guide. Visit the Parthenon and the Acropolis, and see the first modern Olympic Stadium. As the tour comes to an end, reminisce about the unforgettable journey you've had with your new friends.
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