This trip was exactly what I needed. After years of family holidays and work trips, doing something like this — just me, my wife, a car, and no daily schedule, felt like a throwback to how we used to travel.
The best part? We weren’t herded around or stuck waiting for a big group. We just got in the car and drove. Some days we were super active, other days we just wandered and sat in cafes.
Croatia’s charm is obvious, but Slovenia really caught us off guard. The nature is pristine, the towns feel like no less than a fairytale, and even the touristy places don’t feel overwhelming. Also, it’s worth saying the roads were great, parking wasn’t a nightmare, and the car rental process was straightforward. That stuff matters when you’re not 25 anymore.
If you want a bit of culture, nature, good food, and a proper break from the usual routine this is your tour. We’re already talking about doing another self-drive next year. Portugal, maybe?
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
This was the trip of a lifetime—it opened up the world to me and gave me more confidence to solo travel. I LOVED having the itinerary planned out and all of the logistics handled by our excellent trip manager. It helped me turn my brain off and truly enjoy my vacation. Also was so relaxing to travel between cities by train. We had the perfect balance of planned activities and free time that helped us pack just the right amount of action into each city. I especially loved Free Time Add-Ons like the Moulin Rouge and a bonus cruise on the Seine to see the Eiffel Tower shine (arranged by our trip manager when our plans hit a snag!) Would 100% recommend to anyone looking to explore and connect with others!
Adventure
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
London, Berlin, Paris, Amsterdam
London, Berlin, Paris, Amsterdam
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This was a great trip to explore each city. Personally, this felt a bit more independent type travel (exploring the city by yourself or if you made a friend with them) vs other Contikis (more time with the group). Hotels were great and fantastic locations (centrally located near metros and the main train station). Fantastic free time add ons as well.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paris, Rome, Lausanne, Milan, Venice
Paris, Rome, Lausanne, Milan, Venice
13% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Overall, the Conques to Cahors trip was fabulous with great accommodation and amazing hosts. However, there were a few little details that were not up to the same standard. Neither of us could get the navigation on the Guido app to work without constant errors and it was missing critical information, such as potable water fountains, cafes and supermarkets. I provided dietary information upon booking that I cannot eat pork, but was served pork for dinner on two occasions (not sure if that is just French hospitality or the information was not provided to the hosts). And our itinerary did not end up being as listed on the website, we had one day that was only 6.5kms and another day that was 28.5kms, which resulted in a very long day of walking.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House, Hut
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
The Way of St. James, Conques, L
The Way of St. James, Conques, Livinhac Le Haut, Figeac, Ussac, Cajarc, Limogne-en-Quercy, Lalbenque, Cahors
One of the hardest things I’ve ever done on all levels. Thanks to the amazing guides Antonela and Niki who helped me and everyone throughout the week. I cannot recommend this enough if you love the mountains and a nice incline!
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel, Hut, Eco Lodge
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Tirana, Shkoder, Theth, Dobërdol
Tirana, Shkoder, Theth, Dobërdoll, Milisevac, Rekë E Allagës, Drelaj, Babino Polje
Amazing Trip!! Accommodations, and transport from island to island were amazing. Food was spectacular. Even the weather was cooperating. I have never seen such blue skies and water. Totally captivating
City sightseeingChill out
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers