European Quest

Contiki (AU) · 25 days

4.8

10 Reviews

Duration

25 days

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodations

Deluxe

Physical Rating

Easy

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Coast to coast, city to city, the European Quest is el perfecto! Balancing everything we love about being in Europe. Stunning days spent on the coast of San Sebastian, cultured nights bar hopping in Prague, and enough time in Italy to leave you up to your eyebrows in pizza.

Highlights

Dining Summary

6 Dinner (D)
24 Breakfast (B)

FAQs

London: Travelling to (and through) the UK & Northern Ireland? You’ll need Essential Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)From January 8, 2025, UK law means that if you’re entering/transiting through border control in the United Kingdom (UK) and Northern Ireland you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before you travel. Confused? Don’t be – just read on here.
London: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
London: What currency do I need? For this trip, you’ll need just three currencies - the British Pound, Czech Koruna and Euro.
London: Who will I room with if I book additional nights before my trip? You'll stay in a Twin share room (meaning you'll be paired with a fellow traveller of the same gender, and will have two separate beds). If you're booking your trip with a friend/travel companion - just let us know, so we can join your bookings and ensure you share a room. Need a lil' more privacy? You're welcome to opt for a single supplement if you like.
London: Can I share a room with my partner on this trip? Your Trip Manager will advise you on who you’ll share your room with. On this trip, you’ll stay in a multi-share room with other travellers of the same sex.

Included Experience

Paris: Take a dreamy jaunt around the city of romance. Fall in love with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Champs-Élysées and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Bordeaux: Stroll around this chic metropolis to see the Palais de la Bourse and downtown Bordeaux. Then make time for a nice glass of red by the river.
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!
French Riviera: Glide through the winding coastal roads of the French Riviera with your Contiki crew.
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).
Nice: Your chance to learn the art of fragrance at a French perfume house. You know it makes scents! (soz).
Cinque Terre National Park: We’ll take care of your rail pass, so you can just zip around the iconic clifftop villages and focus on the Insta stories. Wanna hike around too? You're welcome to explore on foot along the way.
Pisa: Your ultimate chance to ‘hold the tower up’ as you pose for that classic Insta snap.
Amalfi Coast: Definitely one for the bucket list. Your chance to view one of Europe’s active volcanoes from a distance.
Rome: Stroll around the Italian capital, ticking off some sights on your bucket list!
Verona: This is the address behind the legendary love story. Visit Juliet’s House and see the spot that turned Verona into a global icon.
Venice: Speed across the lagoon to the aqueous island of Venice.
Venice: Life’s all about the waterways here; there’s not an Uber in sight! Get some classic pics of the famous gondola boats.
Salzburg: Marvel at one of Europe's largest medieval castles, perched high on the hill over Salzburg. Like something out of the Sound of Music.
Prague: Charles Bridge. Wenceslas Square. Old Town Square. The Astronomical Clock. See them all IRL in this whimsical city.
Prague: Walk through the winding cobbled streets and head up into the fairytale-like Castle District for panoramic city views.
Dresden: See the Baroque architecture that was rebuilt after the WWII bombings. Royal Residence, Zwinger Palace, Opera House and Frauenkirche.
Berlin: Heads up culture vultures. Here’s your chance to check out the longest open-air gallery in the world.
Berlin: Get your culture on. It’s time to see Tiergarten, Alexanderplatz, the Russian War Memorial, Brandenburg Gate and the historic Reichstag building.

Trip Details

Duration

25 days

Transportation

Private

Guide Language

English

Starts

London, United Kingdom

Finishes

London, United Kingdom

Accommodations

Deluxe

Travel Style

18 - 35 Year Olds Only, Budget

Physical Rating

Easy

Itinerary

Day 1: London to Paris

Welcome to the first day of the best holiday of your life! After a few pleasantries in London we'll get the show on the road with Paris in our sights. A few hours in and your jaws are on the floor already. These chalk cliffs that edge the English coastline are known as the White Cliffs of Dover, the first of many natural beauties we'll see on this trip. After we ferry across the English Channel for France we'll arrive in Calais, where we will take in the history of World War I battlefields in the Valley of the Somme. Kicking off night one, we arrive in none other than the lust-worthy Paris! It's straight down to business with a tour of the city lit up by the lights of night.

Accommodation: Jo&Joe Gentilly (or similar)
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Paris

Drool over haute couture you can't afford, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral whilst juggling coffee and crêpes, & get artsy at the Louvre. Just don't wear yourself out, you will probably want to get involved with dinner and a cabaret show. Smitten and it's only day two!

Accommodation: Jo&Joe Gentilly (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Paris to Bordeaux

Wipe away your tears sad travellers! Paris is not going anywhere, you can always come back and visit her again. You, on the other hand, are going somewhere, and it's somewhere pretty magnificent... Wise folk tell us that wine has been produced in Bordeaux since the 1st Century - that's a long time, which means they know what they're doing. And it's not just the vin that has dragged us here, it's a pretty place to boot featuring its famous Miroir d'eau (water mirror). You'll have the option to sip your way through local wines while soaking up the sights on a scenic stroll - because sightseeing’s better with a glass in hand.

Accommodation: Ibis Budget Bordeaux Centre Meriadeck (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4: Bordeaux to San Sebastian

Breathe in your last breath of Bordeaux before we hit the road in search of the Spanish border. In just a few short hours we'll be exploring San Sebastian. Our stop will have you people watching in this cute little town on the French and Spanish border. With two nights in Spain's coastal town of San Sebastian, it will be hard to wipe the smiles off our faces. You're free to explore then you'll have the option to hit up our epic Pintxos tour. Your call, but trust us… the flavours are next level.

Accommodation: Cats Hostel San Sebastián (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: San Sebastian

We'll be dropping lots of delicious sounding words today as we explore Parte Vieja, Playa de la Concha and Centro Romántico. Say it again: Romántico! Follow the cobblestone roads & soak up San Sebastian's coastline before we enjoy an included dinner this evening.

Accommodation: Cats Hostel San Sebastián (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: San Sebastian to Barcelona

Having settled into life with afternoon siestas, today will only be a departure from San Sebastian, don't worry leaving Spain is not on the agenda. Sigh with relief. This town comes complete with a baroque Basilica, a perfect combination of Islamic and Gothic architecture and truly a sight to behold. Hola Barcelona... the first dose of Mediterranean Sea! That's if you can drag yourself away from the intoxicating city & get to the beach. Check out the unique gothic architecture, round the clock parties & street life. Just don't tire yourself out - chances are you'll want to partake in the evening of Flamenco fun.

Accommodation: Generator Barcelona (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7: Barcelona

They say this sexy city sizzles and we couldn’t agree more. For a taste of what’s in store, here’s just the beginning of a never-ending list: hit up the colourful wonderland that is Parc Güell, soak up the sun at the beach, then lose yourself in the backstreets with non-stop tapas and paella. Washed down with sangria of course. This afternoon, you’ve got the chance to level up your foodie game with an optional MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Roll up your sleeves, cook up a storm, and taste the magic of a meal you made yourself. Trust us - your taste buds will thank you.

Accommodation: Generator Barcelona (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8: Barcelona to French Riviera

As smitten as we are by Barcelona, we have more of Europe to conquer. Much, much more... You're not a real celebrity until you've frolicked on the French Riviera, and who are we to keep you off the A-List? Discover sapphire waters & endless glamour as we roll along this glitzy coastline. We’ll kick back with an included dinner, then the night’s all yours to own.

Accommodation: Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9: French Riviera

Missing an opportunity to see this part of the world up close and personal would be criminal. An optional bike ride with the coastline as the backdrop is on the agenda this morning. Speaking of things you shouldn't miss, this region is famous for lavender honey, aioli & rosé wine; all 3 in one meal should be your mission. Please tell us you didn't throw away all of your pennies on perfume today? Because you're going to want a few spare coins tonight so you can play fancy. We're visiting the Monte Carlo Casino & the Royal Palace in Monaco. After a night on the blackjack table it's back to our cosy accommodation and to bed, the next part of the adventure starts tomorrow.

Accommodation: Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10: French Riviera to Pisa via Cinque Terre

Having exhausted all our hilarious Nice puns, we'll head south in search of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Cinque Terre. Welcome to Cinque Terre, the sexiest collection of fishing villages on the planet. Armed with your rail pass, spend the day absorbing the dramatic beauty of this place, but we suggest you get out for a hike, a food crawl, some vino or all of the above. Then we'll head to our home for the night - Pisa.Oh, what a long but beautiful day it has been! We'll check into our hotel and get some well deserved rest.

Accommodation: B&B Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11: Pisa to Florence

As if we were going to leave Pisa without a trip to the Leaning Tower. Depriving you of the chance to perfect the holding-up-the-tower shot would be down right criminal. Explore the city's markets complete with gelato in hand; marvel at artworks from the likes of legends like Michelangelo; and be impressed by the skilful art of leather at an included demonstration. These are the sorts of activities likely to fill your Florence agenda. Tonight you can choose to begin your Tuscan love affair at a Free Time Add-On dinner - think antipasti & wine.

Accommodation: A&O Florence (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12: Florence to Sorrento

After farewell-ing Florence this morning we will journey along the boot of Italy until we reach the globally adored town of Sorrento for some blissed out coast hangs. "So so so so in love with Sorrento" are about the only words you'll muster up tonight as you sit seaside watching the sunset in this town of beauty. Here, you’ll have the chance to treat yourself with a visit to La Sorgente, a nearby locally-owned family mozzarella farm, for an authentic Italian meal complete with fresh homemade mozzarella, rich olive oil and sunshine-coloured limoncello.

Accommodation: Sisters Hostel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13: Sorrento

It simply wouldn't be a trip to Sorrento without a side note to... We'll take a scenic drive along the Amalfi coast today, stopping off in Amalfi town to admire the castles and coastal views. Next up, you'll have the unique opportunity to visit a Lemon Farm and learn all about how your fav limoncello is made. Back in Sorrento, we'll stroll along the plunging cliffs, explore the impossibly pretty historical centre and taste some local gnocchi.

Accommodation: Sisters Hostel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 14: Sorrento to Rome

Another glorious Italian day awaits us. Iconic sites and ancient history will keep our jaws at floor level until our heads hit our pillows. After less than an hour gazing lovingly out of our windows at the Amalfi Coast, it will be time for a stop. Here in the ancient city of Pompeii you will have the chance to partake in a guided walking tour taking in Roman city remains. Today's roadtrip beauty is never-ending as we take in the volcanic beauty of Mt. Vesuvius en route to Rome. On arrival in the open time capsule that is Italy's capital, we'll hit the cobblestoned streets to check out some of the most famous sights this city has on offer.

Accommodation: Generator Rome (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 15: Rome

Rome wasn't built in a day - so get up and get going early to make the most of this ancient city. Today will be a whirlwind of Roman architecture & the chance to see the Colosseum up close. The afternoon’s free & an optional pasta cooking class with dinner is on the agenda tonight. Oh, and treat yourself to some gelato, will ya? You’ve earned it.

Accommodation: Generator Rome (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 16: Rome to Venice

We have two more pins dropped on the Italian map before we start conquering new countries. And you'll be pleased to know they are both pretty special. In fair Verona, where we lay our scene, a posse of travellers, all alike in excitement, check out the place that inspired Romeo & Juliet. One for the romantics of the group. We'll also check out the Roman Arena where other love stories were told. Kudos to the cats of decades gone by who constructed this lagoon fairytale. Boats, bridges, gondolas; your heart is going to pound. Relax tonight knowing we have all day tomorrow to cruise canals & explore pretty streets. Just another day in the traveller's life.

Accommodation: Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 17: Venice

Wake-up sleeping beauties! Venice is yours for the entirety of this glorious Italian day. We'll be jumping aboard our own private motoscafo and hitting the canals en route to the historical heart of the city. An optional food tour and a gondola ride are up for grabs, or you can always choose to get lost on your own and see where the maze takes you.

Accommodation: Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 18: Venice to Salzburg

That's it for our stint in Italy. Gelato, pizza, historical monuments, coastlines, gondolas; you have all been wonderful! Onwards and geographically upwards - it's time for the mountain ranges that made the Sound of Music famous. Also home to Mozart, you can be pretty certain this place knows a beat. Today we'll also see the largest preserved fortress in Central Europe - Hohensalzburg - and have the chance to visit a local farm and enjoy an authentic Austrian Dinner prepared by our hosts.

Accommodation: A&O Salzburg (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 19: Salzburg to Prague

Austria, you are an overwhelming beauty. Although it would be nice to stay forever, it's time for us to cross the border into the Czech Republic. With Prague on the horizon, things are looking mighty fine. Castles and bridges and gothic cathedrals make the city of Prague a surprise and delight. Compact and bursting with atmosphere, use your free time to trot around on foot and see what you stumble upon (hoping to heaven it's the traditional fruit dumpling of ovocné knedlíky).

Accommodation: Plus Prague (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 20: Prague

With a full day to loiter, expect an entire photo album of Gothic architecture, market antiques & you cheers-ing local beer; not to mention life! Use your free time to shop for some famous Bohemian beads and amber jewellery or dive a little deeper into the lanes and courtyards of the Old Town, and sus out a roof bar for a cocktail overlooking the city.

Accommodation: Plus Prague (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 21: Prague to Berlin

Just remember, with every great city we leave behind, we get a little bit closer to somewhere new to explore. And today that somewhere new happens to be the cultural hub of Berlin. Thanks for everything, Czechia! road trip from Prague to Berlin would not be complete without stopping in Dresden. Destroyed during World War II, the rebuilt city is now a symbol of resilience, soaked in the rebirth beauty of an Opera house, the domed Frauenkirche, & the Royal Residence. Come for a wall covered in art & history, stay for a culture of cool, a smorgasbord of partying & enough unique German flair to leave you desperate to see the rest of the country. Today we will shower you in iconic sites, none more interesting than the remains of the Berlin Wall.

Accommodation: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 22: Berlin

Get into the mood and get out exploring! Berlin has so much to offer the hungry traveller, from the obvious icons like Checkpoint Charlie to all the obscurities tucked away in the side streets.

Accommodation: Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 23: Berlin to Amsterdam

It's time to hit the original fast-track of the autobahn and make our way out of Germany. We have one last city to tick off & it's sure to see us go out with a bang. Whatever eclectic fantasies you have about Amsterdam, the real life version will impress you more. Fire yourself up for pretty canals, a bounty of unique museums, an optional comedy show & quirky cafes galore.

Accommodation: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 24: Amsterdam

Amsterdam is cute as a button & sure to win your heart with its canals, obscure museums & a cafe culture like no other. Today use your time to get local, bar hop, museum crawl, and see what other tastes take your fancy, this place is famous for pancakes, frites and so much more. This evening, opt in to enjoy a unique (and absolutely delicious) dinner with the rest of our Contiki fam.

Accommodation: Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 25: Amsterdam to London

Get your tissues ready, it's time to say goodbye to your new Contiki family. We'll escort you to Schiphol Airport by about 10am.For those not leaving us until London, we'll travel south to Calais.This afternoon we cross from France to England......and then back to London-town, where you'll be left to start dreaming up your next big adventure.

Meals: Breakfast

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

From
AUD $5050

AUD $4,545

(Tour only)

Offer ends 08 Apr, 2026 Per Person Multi, Share

Duration: 25 days

Trip Type: Group Tour

Activity Level: Easy

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 11 Dec 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

5.0

Anonymous

Traveled, December 2024

12/31/2024

It was an amazing trip. Got to see so much and met amazing people. My tour guide and bus driver were the best, they did the most to make our trip as good as it could be. The only thing I do not recommend doing on this tour is the Venice food tour, it wasn't worth the money.

5.0

Anonymous

Traveled, November 2024

11/30/2024

The most incredible adventure with Contiki—a whirlwind journey through Europe that I’ll never forget. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, every day was packed with unforgettable moments. I met the most amazing group of people who quickly became lifelong friends, and together we laughed, explored, and created memories that will stay with me forever. It was fast-paced, full of energy, and truly one of the best experiences of my life. The trip was very easy to book.

Tour Operator

Contiki Tours, founded in 1962, is a global travel company specializing in group tours exclusively for 18–35-year-olds, offering over 300 trips across more than 50 countries. Known for its strong social focus, Contiki blends adventure, cultural immersion, and nightlife with the convenience of fully organized itineraries. The brand is part of The Travel Corporation and differentiates itself through unique “Special Stays,” curated experiences, and a community-driven atmosphere that attracts solo travelers and young groups alike. With sustainability initiatives under its “Contiki Cares” program, the company also emphasizes responsible travel, making it a leading choice for younger travelers seeking connection, discovery, and memorable experiences.

In Business Since 1962

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