Contiki Tours
Home > Escorted Tours > European Encounter (Winter) (Ends in Paris)

European Encounter (Winter) (Ends in Paris)

An 18-Day Contiki Tours tour starting from $2,415

(Not Yet Rated)   |   Write a review
Brochure Price
$2,415
Why Pay
Brochure Rates?
Call Us or click below for Exclusive offers

Tour Overview

Tour Type:
 Escorted Tour
Tour Category:
Tour Operator: Contiki Tours
Tour Code: CH-WWHZU07
Tour Highlights

Cities Visited

See Description
Sightseeing Highlights
Dover
See the White Cliffs of Dover

Amsterdam
See Amsterdam's canals & gable houses by nightVisit a cheese farm & clog maker's house

Rhine Valley
Scenic drive along the Rhine RiverOnly Contiki: Wine tasting in an historic cellarSee the Lorelei Rock

Swiss Alps
Scenic drive through the Alps

Lucerne
See the Wooden Chapel Bridge in LucerneView the Lion Monument

Liechtenstein
Visit the capital of Liechtenstein, Vaduz

Innsbruck
See the Golden Roof, Royal Palace & Olympic Ski Jump in Innsbruck

Brenner Pass
Scenic drive past vineyards, orchards & castles

Venice
Only Contiki: Private boat through the canals & islands of VeniceSee the Bridge of Sighs, the Doge's Palace & St. Mark's SquareSee Venice's iconic canals & gondolas

Rome
Only Contiki: Special access Rome sightseeing coach tourSee the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, Piazza Venezia, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon & Piazza Navona

Vatican City
See St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City

Florence
Only Contiki: Discover the Statue of David, Ponte Vecchio, the Medici Palace & much more on our locally guided walking tour of FlorenceSee the Duomo, Basilica Santa Croce, Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistry & Piazza della SignoriaLearn about Florence's leather craft with a demonstration

Pisa
See the Leaning Tower of Pisa

French Riviera
See the Royal Palace in MonacoOnly Contiki: Rub shoulders with the rich & famous with a visit to a Monte Carlo casinoVisit a French perfumery

Château de Fontager
Feature Hotel: Château de Fontager

Avignon
See the Papal Palace in Avignon

Burgundy
See Chablis, Burgundy & Beaujolais vineyards

Paris
Only Contiki: Exclusive 'Paris by Night' sightseeing tourSee the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, the Champs-Élysées, and Notre Dame CathedralOnly Contiki: Check out Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower

Overview

The European Encounter tour is perfect for those who want to see Europe but don't have months to negotiate their way around the continent. You'll have the opportunity to walk in the steps of Roman Emperors in the Roman Forum, cruise the canals of Amsterdam, take in a Parisian cabaret show and rub shoulders with the rich and famous on the French Riviera...all in a little over two weeks!

Year Round Offers
  • Contiki is the best vacation for 18-35 year olds
  • Refer-a-Friend Reward you save $100 off a tour
  • Book any 2 Contiki trips of 10 days - Save $100
  • Triple Discounts Save 5% & Early Payment Discount
Start Date End Date Brochure price Our Price Quote
10/18/2012
11/4/2012
$2,529
Get A Quote
10/25/2012
11/11/2012
$2,529
Get A Quote
11/1/2012
11/18/2012
$2,479
Get A Quote
11/8/2012
11/25/2012
$2,479
Get A Quote
11/22/2012
12/9/2012
$2,479
Get A Quote
11/29/2012
12/16/2012
$2,479
Get A Quote
12/5/2012
12/22/2012
$2,479
Get A Quote
12/10/2012
12/27/2012
$2,479
Get A Quote
12/12/2012
12/29/2012
$2,479
Get A Quote
12/14/2012
12/31/2012
$2,549
Get A Quote
12/18/2012
1/4/2013
$2,549
Get A Quote
12/22/2012
1/8/2013
$2,549
Get A Quote
12/24/2012
1/10/2013
$2,549
Get A Quote
12/26/2012
1/12/2013
$2,549
Get A Quote
12/30/2012
1/16/2013
$2,549
Get A Quote
1/1/2013
1/18/2013
$2,549
Get A Quote
1/9/2013
1/26/2013
$2,549
Get A Quote
1/16/2013
2/2/2013
$2,549
Get A Quote
1/31/2013
2/17/2013
$2,415
Get A Quote
2/14/2013
3/3/2013
$2,415
Get A Quote
2/21/2013
3/10/2013
$2,415
Get A Quote
2/28/2013
3/17/2013
$2,415
Get A Quote
3/14/2013
3/31/2013
$2,459
Get A Quote
3/21/2013
4/7/2013
$2,459
Get A Quote

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.

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.

Note: Departures appearing above in green are guaranteed to operate by the tour operator.

Day 1: Depart for Europe
Jet off to the trip of a lifetime awaiting you in Europe! Accommodations:

Day 2: Arrive London
Check-in to your hotel after 2pm and the remainder of the day is free to relax before meeting your fellow travellers at 6pm. After dinner take a short walk to explore nearby Covent Garden.Accommodations: Hotel

Day 3: London to Amsterdam
Meet up with your Contiki team before we hit the road and take a ferry past the White Cliffs of Dover. Next stop: the buzzing, free-wheeling city of Amsterdam. Check out Amsterdam’s eye-opening Red Light District, where the creative and wacky come together on narrow cobbled streets, 24/7. Get some pointers on the city’s hot spots from your Tour Manager and head into town for a fun night out.Accommodations: HotelMeals: Dinner (1) day

Day 4: Amsterdam
In an intro into Dutch culture, see how clogs are made and try some of the famous Dutch Edam at a cheese farm.There’s free time this afternoon to experience Amsterdam’s coffee shops, museums and quirky, cool boutiques. Wander along the canals and past gabled houses or experience Amsterdam’s multi-ethnic cuisine. Tonight, try some of the traditional local cuisine at a restaurant in a nearby fishing village. With an optional evening canal cruise, there’s a chance to get to know the group, unwind with a few drinks and uncover Amsterdam at water level as you drift past the city lights. Get some pointers on the city’s hot spots from your Tour Manager and head into town for a fun night out.Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day

Day 5: Amsterdam to Rhine Valley
Chill out while the coach follows the Rhine River, weaving through valleys dotted with castles and vineyards. Next stop - the pretty, old-world village of St. Goar, complete with fairy-tale castle and even a free-hanging cuckoo clock! Learn about local know-how and get savvy on the craft of beer steins. Kick back with a glass of local wine and find out more with our included wine tasting in a candlelit underground cellar.Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day, Dinner (1) day

Day 6: Rhine Valley to Lucerne
Next stop: the jaw-droppingly beautiful alpine town of Lucerne.Get above the clouds on the world’s steepest cog railway with an optional excursion up Mt. Pilatus. You can see massive mountain ranges with a bird’s-eye view over this spectacular region.Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day, Dinner (1) day

Day 7: Lucerne
With covered wooden bridges, cobbled lanes and quaint buildings, Lucerne’s centre is perfect to explore on foot. Also to stock up on lots of genuine Swiss chocolate! Your Tour Manager can give you pointers on where to pick up the best-priced watches Switzerland is so famous for.Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day

Day 8: Lucerne to Innsbruck
Today, wind through the Alps and travel past the stony cliffs of Liechtenstein into the capital Vaduz, where you can grab some lunch and enjoy it in the shadow of the Royal Family’s 12th century castle.Then continue on through Austria into Innsbruck, a down-to-earth student city. Walk around the medieval streets of the easy going old town, and check out Innsbruck’s landmark Golden Roof and Royal Palace. Your pace will race when you see the totally impressive Olympic Ski Jump.Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day, Dinner (1) day

Day 9: Innsbruck to Venice
This morning, roll on to Venice. Take some time to practice your Italian phrases on the coach as we travel through the Brenner Pass.Known as the “floating city”, Venice is packed with character, crammed with hidden lanes and linked by a network of canals.Jump on our private boat and travel through the waters of the lagoon to visit the city’s historical heart. The limestone Bridge of Sighs, the gothic arches of Doge’s Palace and the expanse of St. Mark’s Square (pigeons and all!) show Venice’s unique beauty and way of life.Take some time to explore the floating city and lose yourself in the backstreets. There’s an optional walking tour where you can discover the labyrinth of interweaving lanes, waterways, palaces, piazzi and markets with our Local Guide. You’ll see historic monuments, hidden treasures and the Rialto market – a local favourite for food shopping.Maybe grab a table on St. Mark’s Square and eat some delicious Italian food al fresco.Cap off the day with an optional gondola ride & share this amazing experience with your friends - seeing Venice from on the water is unforgettable!Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day

Day 10: Venice to Rome
Criss-cross the Apennine Mountains on the road to Rome.Stylish Rome oozes energy and overflows with relics from another age. Our special access coach tour gets you right into the thriving atmosphere of this living timeline as your Tour Manager shows you the Colosseum and Piazza Venezia. Continue on foot to check out the Pantheon 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!) or maybe hang out with your new friends at the Spanish Steps, sit back with a few slices of pizza and people watch.Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day, Dinner (1) day

Day 11: Rome
This morning, make the most of our Local Guide’s inside knowledge with an optional guided tour of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Then check out Rome’s imperial glory by visiting the Colosseum and Roman Forum.Take off into the city and absorb the atmosphere, as Vespas flash past timeworn monuments that are surrounded by fountains, pizzerias, cafés and bars. Before you hit the shops, let your Tour Manager point you in the right direction with some tips on the best buys.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.Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day

Day 12: Rome to Florence
Next up: Umbria’s rustic hills and many vineyards. Travel past the iconic cypress trees of this olive oil producing region, to the Renaissance city of Florence.The scene-stealing Duomo Cathedral rises above the city. Get the inside track on Florence’s cultural beginnings from our Local Guide as the group explores streets crammed with artworks from masters like Michelangelo. Then, take a look into a skilful demonstration of Florentine leather making and understand this region’s traditional art. The city’s markets are a great place to hang out and bargain. Grab a gelato in your free time and enjoy the feel of this gorgeous city.Tonight there’s a choice of a group dinner – an authentic Italian feast in the Tuscan hillsides, where you’ll get to indulge in regional dishes & sip on local Chianti wine. Afterwards, take it up a notch & opt to head with the group to one of Florence’s top clubs where you can show off your moves on the dance floor.Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day

Day 13: Florence to French Riviera
We stop by Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower this morning, before sticking to the Italian coastline and crossing over into France.Then we hit the rugged coast line of the stunning Côte d’Azur. Follow the beautiful sapphire waters to the palm trees and sun-soaked shores of Nice.Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day, Dinner (1) day

Day 14: French Riviera
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 enjoy a relaxing afternoon in one of the many cafés.Tonight get a taste of the high life in Monaco, the glamourous principality packed into just 1.92km2 and home of 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, then try your luck at a casino later on.Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day

Day 15: French Riviera to Château de Fontager
Next stop on the Riviera and home to the French perfume industry is Fragonard Perfumery. Learn more 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 a great price.Unwind on the coach, listen to your MP3 and take in the rustic beauty of Provence, known for its pretty landscapes of lavender, sunflowers and wild herbs. A lunch stop in the Popes’ former seat of power, Avignon, means a real taste of the Provencal lifestyle and a look into the town’s Roman heritage. Wander through the cobbled streets and learn about Avignon’s past as a spiritual superpower when you see the impressive Papal Palace.Arrive at Château de Fontager and settle into your room for our overnight stay in this medieval French castle. Accommodations: Feature HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day, Dinner (1) day

Day 16: Château de Fontager to Paris
With down-time on the coach, chat with friends while travelling through the scenic wine producing regions of Burgundy and Chablis.Tonight, the group kick-starts Paris with the 'Tour of Illuminations', which shows off the French capital’s transformation into the “City of Lights”. Lamp-lit bridges and cool little cafés give us a real taste of Paris’ romance. Your Tour Manager will fill you in on the world’s most recognised monuments, like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe.Then get a stunning view of the entire city with included entry to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Oui, oui, Paris!Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day, Dinner (1) day

Day 17: Paris
This town is loaded with possibilities. Discover its many bistros, museums, tree-lined avenues and diverse quartiers (neighbourhoods). Get a feel for French flair by window shopping on the Left Bank. Step into the Notre Dame or explore the endless galleries of the Louvre, where you can get up close to the famous Mona Lisa. In your free time, try indulging in some delicious pastries and relax in one of Paris’ many green spaces.Tonight is the last night with your friends, so make it special. Treat yourself to the full Parisian experience with a cabaret show, complete with can-can girls, dinner and Champagne. But don’t stop there – afterwards hit the clubs and finish up your travels with a big Parisian night out.Accommodations: HotelMeals: Breakfast (1) day

Day 18: Paris to London
After breakfast, there will be a transfer for you to Charles de Gaulle 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.Accommodations: Meals: Breakfast (1) day

Contiki Tours
The European Encounter tour is perfect for those who want to see Europe but don't have months to negotiate their way around the continent. You'll have the opportunity to walk in the steps of Roman Emperors in the Roman Forum, cruise the canals of Amsterdam, take in a Parisian cabaret show and rub shoulders with the rich and famous on the French Riviera...all in a little over two weeks!

Save $150 on Contiki Vacations of 14+ Days!

Give Them The World


$150 off Contiki trips!

Book any trip 14 days or longer and save $150 when you mention promo code GIFT. Applies to new bookings only between 10/10/11 and 10/1/12.

Valid for travel from 10/10/11 through 12/31/12. Non-refundable $200 deposit required to secure booking. Full payment required 45 days prior to departure. Not combinable with other dollar or percentage off promotions. Offer valid for US residents booking through travel agencies located in the US. Restrictions apply.

Vacations under $1,200!



Adventures for the budget-conscious traveler 
Need to get back to nature? Experience New Zealand. Ready for an unforgettable New Year's? Try Sydney, Paris or Amsterdam. Craving an adrenaline rush? Learn to dive in the Great Barrier Reef.

With over 30 trips under $1200, you're sure to get a bang for your bucks!

Early Payment and Other Amazing Contiki Discounts

Welcome to Contiki.com/promos

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 12 months prior
to trip departure date. Valid for select trips only.

 

 

Welcome to Contiki.com/promos
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
Australia + New Zealand - Save US$100

Travel with your friends and save!

Group Travel Discounts on Tours, Save from 5%


Contiki believes in the principle of the more the merrier. You’ll save money when you travel with more people, so round up your friends and have a blast for less!


4 OR MORE

Our ‘4 or More’ discount means a 5% saving per person when 4 or more people book at the same time on the same trip.


7 OR MORE

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


10 OR MORE

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.


TRIPLE SHARE

Save 5% on the twin share price when you book a
triple room. Available on many Time Out hotel tours.


2 TOURS

Book 2 Contiki tours (of 10 days or more) at the same time and save $100 on your total booking. Why not stopover in Asia or USA on way home from Europe?

Terms & Conditions

  • Discounts apply to land tour price only (ie: not flights).
  • You can combine group discounts, multi tour discounts & early payment discounts on tours of 10 days or longer, however these deals cannot be combined with any other offer.
  • All tours must be made on one booking for discount to apply.
  • All members of the group must travel on the same tour and tour dates.
  • Discount will be applied upon payment.

5% off Military Discount!

Welcome to Contiki.com/promos
Active or non-active members, as well as their spouse, receive 5% off Contiki trips 8 days or longer. Mention promo code MILITARY1112 to redeem.

To show our gratitude to military personnel, veterans, and spouses who protect America, Contiki is covering the price of travel insurance. You deserve a vacation, now rest easy knowing if for any reason you need to cancel or change your reservation, we've got you covered.

Applies to new bookings only. Active or non-active members are eligible, as long as a valid military ID is provided for each person applying the discount. Verification is required. Valid for travel through 31DEC12. Restrictions apply.

Ratings & Reviews:

This tour has no reviews yet. Have you experienced this tour? Write a review.

GOT QUESTIONS? Get Answers.
Contact an Experienced Travel Consultant at
1-800-942-3301

Similar Tours

All prices are per person, double occupancy, subject to availability. These pages are not endorsed or supported by the tour operator in any way. All information presented is based on promotional material provided by the tour operator. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time by the tour operators. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. The prices on this website are not guaranteed. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in pricing. Please call us toll free at 1-800-942-3301 to confirm availability and pricing.