16-Day European Encounter | Start Amsterdam | Classic | Summer | 2026
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US$2995 ￥20208 €2591 C$4179 Rs.284938
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Child age: 0-12
Highlights
Small budget, small window of time, big list of Must Dos? The European Encounter should do the trick. Make your way through 8 countries, catching some rays on the Italian Riviera, downing pizza in Rome & exploring castles in Prague. If you know a better way to spend just under two and a half weeks, we need to hear about it!
Dates & Prices
Price in USD (per person, based on double occupancy)
Limited Offer
3% Group Discount: 1. Receive 3% off when you purchase 3+ rooms on the same tour (single order only). 2. Receive 3% off when you book 3+ multi-day tours with minimum order total of $500 at once. Not valid in conjunction with any other discounts or pricing offers.
Itinerary
Get ready for 16 days of unforgettable adventures through Europe! You'll meet up with your Contiki crew in London and we'll all board our coach here, ready to set off for European soil. Our first stop is Dover, where we'll take a ferry to cross over the channel. One step closer! As we set off, take in that last glimpse of English coastline with the beauty of the White Cliffs of Dover. Off the ferry, we arrive in the port town of Calais. We're in France! With no time to waste, we'll jump back on our coach and head onwards to Amsterdam. Cross off another country off your list as you cruise through Belgium on your way to Amsterdam. And here we are at our final stop for this evening: Amsterdam! We'll start our exploration of this city with a peek of canals, bicycles & 17th century gable houses lit up by night. Next on the agenda tonight, the famed for fun Amsterdam is ours to explore.
London, United Kingdom
The capital city of both England and the United Kingdom has been a focal point of Western civilization for centuries. This amazing city in the British Isles is famous for places like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey.
Dover, United Kingdom
A major ferry port in Kent, South East England. It faces France across the Strait of Dover, the narrowest part of the English Channel.
Calais, France
A city and major ferry port in northern France, the closest French town to England. The town came to be called the "brightest jewel in the English crown" owing to its great importance as the gateway for the tin, lead, lace and wool trades (or "staples").
Amsterdam, Netherlands
The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, is also the largest city in the country. This historic city is home to the Anne Frank House, the world's oldest stock exchange, the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and much more!
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 delicious dinner with the rest of our Contiki fam.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, is also the largest city in the country. This historic city is home to the Anne Frank House, the world's oldest stock exchange, the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and much more!
Amsterdam, it's been lovely, but today's agenda is onto the autobahn and on the fast-track to uber-cool Berlin. On the world map of party vibes, Berlin has a gold star. We've got two nights to explore every inch of this iconic city, and we'll kick it off with a bit of a tour of the city and its troubled but fascinating past. Once we've gotten acquainted with the key sites, you'll have some free time to discover the city. Berlin has so much to offer the hungry traveller, from the somber icons like the Holocaust memorial to side streets with hidden cafes and shops. And if you're not sure where to start, your Trip Manager can always point you in the right direction.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a world city of culture, politics, media and science, home to world-renowned universities, orchestras, museums, and entertainment venues, and is host to many sporting events. Its Zoological Garden is the most visited zoo in Europe.
Get into the mood of exploration. 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. Tonight you'll get the chance to sign up for an Alternative Berlin walking tour, taking us to all the city’s hipster haunts and historical hotspots.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a world city of culture, politics, media and science, home to world-renowned universities, orchestras, museums, and entertainment venues, and is host to many sporting events. Its Zoological Garden is the most visited zoo in Europe.
This morning we'll motor out of Berlin, ready for our next city. Berlin is one tough act to follow. Next up, we head to the border and stop at a town called Dresden. A drive from Berlin to Prague would not be complete without stopping in Dresden. Destroyed by World War II, the rebuilt town is now a symbol of resilience, soaked in the rebirthed beauty of an Opera house, the domed Frauenkirche, & the Royal Residence. On arrival in the compact & lovable city of Prague, we'll get out and go exploring, seeing castles and cathedrals and learning of Bohemian Kings and gothic history. Tonight choose to get up close to Czech culture with a live music performance & traditional dancing over dinner and drinks.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a world city of culture, politics, media and science, home to world-renowned universities, orchestras, museums, and entertainment venues, and is host to many sporting events. Its Zoological Garden is the most visited zoo in Europe.
Dresden, Germany
Dresden has a long history as the capital and royal residence for the Electors and Kings of Saxony, who for centuries furnished the city with cultural and artistic splendor, and was once by personal union the family seat of Polish monarchs. The city was known as the Jewel Box, because of its baroque and rococo city centre.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague has been an important city for 1,100 years. It is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic, features more than ten museums, and its historic city center is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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! We'll explore the city by boat today to show us all the sights and sounds of the epic spots that have put this Eastern city on the map.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague has been an important city for 1,100 years. It is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic, features more than ten museums, and its historic city center is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We warned you about falling head over heels for Prague! Sorry kids, you cannot live here forever. Onwards we go - 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 partake in the Sights & Sounds of Salzburg. This evening opt to venture off the beaten path and visit a farming family in the hills above Salzburg who invite us into their home to eat, drink and learn about their lives. The family have lived on this farm for many generations and now look to tourism to help support them and their local community.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague has been an important city for 1,100 years. It is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic, features more than ten museums, and its historic city center is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg's claim to fame is being the birthplace of legendary composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It also served as the setting for "The Sound of Music". Visitors can enjoy the baroque architecture and spend time in the City Center.
Austria, you are an overwhelming beauty. Although it would be nice to stay forever, it's time for us to cross the border and prepare to stuff ourselves full of all things pizza & pasta. Yes, traveller we're making our way to Italy! You'll think you've seen enough beauty for one day after taking in the Central Austrian Alps, and then we'll arrive in Venice & your jaw will hit the floor over hidden lanes, story book bridges & a private canal boat ride.
Venice, Italy
This city off the coast of northeast Italy is famous the world over for its many canals. It is actually a chain of 118 islands linked together by bridges and waterways. Venice is world-renown for its art and beauty.
Farewell floating city, but Italy, we're not done with you yet, our next destination the Eternal City of Rome is just around the corner. But first, we have an epic, included MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience to enjoy. Casale Polegri is set within the gorgeous town of Baschi, where we'll meet the Polegri family. These guys have run their vineyard and olive orchard for generations, and after giving us the grand tour, will serve us lunch under the Veranda. As we overlook the Tiber Valley, enjoying some of the most authentic Italian food we've ever tasted (topped off with the Polegri's very own wine, naturally), we might reflect that we've never had it so good. It's the kind of local travel experience you don't encounter every day (you're welcome). Then, all roads lead to Rome as we uncover Italian icons in the country's capital and get a glimpse of its glory by night. Gelato, pizza and ancient monuments - perfetto!
Venice, Italy
This city off the coast of northeast Italy is famous the world over for its many canals. It is actually a chain of 118 islands linked together by bridges and waterways. Venice is world-renown for its art and beauty.
Baschi, Italy
Rome, Italy
The history of this amazing city spans more than two and a half thousand years. It is one of the most historic places on the planet Earth, and it's artistic and cultural contributions have colored global development.
Rome wasn't built in a day - so get up and get going early to make the most of this ancient city. Hit the streets for your own discoveries. Snap pink azaleas by the Colosseum, throw coins in fountains and sip espresso in a pretty street watching Italian life float by.
Rome, Italy
The history of this amazing city spans more than two and a half thousand years. It is one of the most historic places on the planet Earth, and it's artistic and cultural contributions have colored global development.
We may be hitting the road again, but we're not done with Italy just yet. We have one more city to lust over… The dome of Duomo Cathedral sits above the city making certain we know we have arrived in Florence. Take a moment to take in the unique beauty of this beautiful city where culture and la dolce vita is evident in every direction you look at. Tonight you can choose to begin your Tuscan love affair with an optional walking tour and finishing with a dinner of Bistecca, a Florentine Steak.
Florence, Italy
Historic Florence, Italy is considered to be one of the most gorgeous cities in the world. Its long tradition of art and culture can be seen on nearly every doorstep. Millions of people travel here each year.
Hopefully by now you are head to toe in fresh leather, you've eaten your body weight in antipasto, and you're feeling fresh as a daisy and ready to farewell Florence. No trip around Europe is complete without seeing the world's most famous #AwkwardLean, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Once you've got that perfect snap of you holding the thing up like you're Arnold Schwarzenegger, we'll be on the fast-track to the Italian Riviera. Hello beautiful! The 'Five Lands' or Cinque Terre is completely beautiful and will take your breath away with their stunning colours, washing hanging out windows and picture perfect setting. Perched on a cliff and overlooking the Ligurian Sea this is 100% bucket list worthy destination, use the included day pass to explore this colourful heaven, stopping for an Aperol Spritz on the way too, all in the name of culture of course! Feeling all lovey dovey from our day in the Cinque Terre, we’ll rest our heads in Parma for the night – ready for more magic on the morrow.
Florence, Italy
Historic Florence, Italy is considered to be one of the most gorgeous cities in the world. Its long tradition of art and culture can be seen on nearly every doorstep. Millions of people travel here each year.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre is a series of 5 seaside villages on the Italian Riviera. Each town is marked by colorful houses and ancient vineyards that sit on steep, terraced cliffs. It is know for its delicious seafood dishes.
Parma, Italy
Best known for its incredibly edible contributions to world gastronomy, especially parmigiano cheese and Parma ham, Parma has also been revered by opera lovers.
Parma, it’s been short and sweet but we must move on. Next stop, Lucerne! Swans float under wooden bridges, snow-capped mountains stand regally behind us & chocolate tastes like heaven on earth. You're in the Swiss Alps & you cannot wipe the smile off your face.
Lucerne, Switzerland
This Swiss city on gorgeous Lake Lucerne is popular with tourists due to its amazing views of the lake, Mount Pilatus, and Mount Rigi of the Swiss Alps. Some of the buildings in Lucerne date back hundreds of years.
It's been sweet, but our time in Lucerne is up this morning. We're Paris-bound! Out with the altitude, in with the inner-city Parisian bliss. We'll jump back onto our coach to cross the border out of Switzerland and (back) into France. Lamp-lit bridges & a sparkling Eiffel Tower, tonight we fall in love with everything Paris. Our Trip Manager fills us in on the city's secrets as we celebrate our first night in the city.
Lucerne, Switzerland
This Swiss city on gorgeous Lake Lucerne is popular with tourists due to its amazing views of the lake, Mount Pilatus, and Mount Rigi of the Swiss Alps. Some of the buildings in Lucerne date back hundreds of years.
Paris, France
Paris has been a thriving city for more than two thousand years. It is known all over the world as a city of art and romance, from its high-end cafes to the famous visage of the Eiffel Tower.
If you're waiting for a chance to indulge yourself in all things Paris, today is your day. With our last night looming, we'll have plenty of time to wander up the Champs-Élysées for a pastel-hued macaron at the original Ladurée, then pop in to local favourite Colette, drool over haute couture on rue Saint-Honoré, admire the Notre-Dame cathedral while juggling coffee & sugared crêpes, or hustle your way through the crowds for a glimpse of the enigmatic Mona Lisa at the Louvre. Just don't wear yourself out, because tonight you have the chance to grab tickets for a cabaret show, an optional group evening out to perfectly top off your time in the city of lights.
Paris, France
Paris has been a thriving city for more than two thousand years. It is known all over the world as a city of art and romance, from its high-end cafes to the famous visage of the Eiffel Tower.
Rise, shine, and soak up your last dose of Paris this morning over a coffee and croissant together, as we marvel at how much we've seen on this magical journey. It may be over for now, but these friendships and memories will last a lifetime. Our last coach ride together will be a complimentary transfer to CDG airport this morning, or you can stay onboard for the full ride back to London. Plenty of time to start planning the next reunion... What an adventure! Say a fond farewell to the group as you wrap up the trip on arrival in London.
Paris, France
Paris has been a thriving city for more than two thousand years. It is known all over the world as a city of art and romance, from its high-end cafes to the famous visage of the Eiffel Tower.
Calais, France
A city and major ferry port in northern France, the closest French town to England. The town came to be called the "brightest jewel in the English crown" owing to its great importance as the gateway for the tin, lead, lace and wool trades (or "staples").
Dover, United Kingdom
A major ferry port in Kent, South East England. It faces France across the Strait of Dover, the narrowest part of the English Channel.
London, United Kingdom
The capital city of both England and the United Kingdom has been a focal point of Western civilization for centuries. This amazing city in the British Isles is famous for places like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey.
Includes & Excludes
Price Includes
Additional Notes
- DAY 1: Trip starts in Amsterdam at 18:00. Complimentary arrival transfers from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) are not available on the first day of the tour. Travellers must arrange their own transfers.
- DAY 16: Trip ends in Paris at 10:00 or London at 18:30. Complimentary departure transfers arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) at 10:00 on the last day of the tour. It is not recommended to book flights prior to 13:00. Travellers ending in London to depart from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) or London Gatwick Airport (LGW). It is not recommended to book flights departing on the last day of the trip. Post night is recommended in London.
- UNITED KINGDOM: Traveling to the UK & Northern Ireland after January 8, 2025? A new Electronic Travel Authorization ETA is required for entry and transit, if you need to go through border control. For more details & to apply for the ETA visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta.
Policies
All purchases are subject to re-confirmation within 2-3 business days after booking. Please do not book airline tickets until you have received the confirmation.
Complete operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, is included on your e-ticket. You must print the e-tickets and take them along on your trip; they are your proof of purchase.
Travel Documents
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Cancellation penalties per person (request day and departure day are not counted)
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
Q & A
Popular FAQs
London: 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: For this trip, we recommend that you carry the British Pound, Euro, Czech Koruna, Swiss Franc. (It’s a coin collector's dream!)
London: This trip includes plenty of interesting Free Time Add-Ons in Amsterdam. So if you’re planning to do any other activity, and looking to book in advance - it’s best to book your tickets between 12-3PM. Of course, you can always book any other time (we’re all about freedom to explore!). But make sure you don’t miss the other activities, or a coach transfer to the accommodation!
London: 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: For this trip, we recommend that you carry the British Pound, Euro, Czech Koruna, Swiss Franc. (It’s a coin collector's dream!)
London: This trip includes plenty of interesting Free Time Add-Ons in Amsterdam. So if you’re planning to do any other activity, and looking to book in advance - it’s best to book your tickets between 12-3PM. Of course, you can always book any other time (we’re all about freedom to explore!). But make sure you don’t miss the other activities, or a coach transfer to the accommodation!
London: 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.
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