The locations that appealed to me most were the Switzerland and Italy locations. I am someone who needs to do things with other people in order to be happy, so it was really nice to be able to find a person with whom i could explore the location of the day with during our assigned free time. I do wish occasionally to stay in some cities a little longer, either by free time or staying more days, but i understand the need for the current schedule. The schedule was a lot less hectic than i had initially imagined for my first tour bus type travel excursion and was pleasantly surprised at the overall trip, so i would definitely do it, though at this time i dont know where. I would be interested in touring again with some of the same guides, but i realize that is not a likely possibility.
I had a 20 day trip, so i had multiple guides throughout my tour. I had started with Lionel, then went to Linus, Angela, Incarne?, Abdel, and finally Mariano, on my last day. Although, not always enjoyable every moment, i did appreciate the greatly varrying styles of each guide. However, while they were all good in their own way, Incarne and Angela were my favorites due to their styles and interaction with the travelers, in terms of getting to know the travelers and their interests.
One thing i should improve upon for myself is to look at the provided information more carefully to determine what exactly is or is not provided. At the time i booked the trip i had not had a free moment to review all the information provided in the traveler information, so i would definitely take the time to research everything
Imagine a European odyssey stretching from Madrid to Paris—24 days of discovery on the 'Great Discovery' city sightseeing tour. Tailored for seniors, this comprehensive group trip covers Spain and France, providing comfortable accommodations, seamless transport, and thoughtfully planned meals. The standout aspect of this package is its extended exploration of two culturally rich countries, allowing for deeper engagement and a more leisurely travel rhythm for those who truly want to savor Europe.
ABOUT THIS TRIP
This incredible journey takes you to the highlights of the most iconic and important sights in Europe. Your journey begins in the capital of Spain, Madrid, where you will enjoy a comprehensive tour through the center, including Paseo del Prado, Cibeles, Neptuno, the Gate of Alcalá, Plaza de Colón, and Plaza Mayor. On the way to Barcelona, you will go on a guided tour to the Monastery of Poblet, located in northeastern Spain, one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in the world. In Barcelona, tour the city and discover the iconic Ras Ramblas Street. Your tour continues with driving in the region of Provence to arrive in the charming town of Chamberry. Continue to Switzerland and enjoy beautiful lakes and mountains with snowcapped peaks on your way to Zurich. Your journey continues in Rome, the ancient Capital of Italy, and get to know about its history on a panoramic tour and in the Trastevere area. You will also visit St. Peter’s Basilica in the heart of Vatican City and the impressive Roman Coliseum. Moving to Venice, you will take the boat, cross the Grand Canal to the Island of Venice, and visit the marvelous St. Mark´s Square and the Murano Glass Factory. Then travel along a very scenic road between the mountains on your way to Kitzbuhel in Austria and take a cable car ride up to the high mountains that surround the city with fantastic scenery. Later, you will explore the beautiful Traunsee Lake in Traunkirchen and see four castles. The next stop is Vienna, with its majestic avenues, palaces, and vibrant city center. Here, you will visit the Schonbrunn Palace and enjoy its beautiful gardens. Next, you will continue to Hungary and discover its spectacular capital, Budapest on a Scenic city tour followed by a boat tour along the river Danube. Your journey will end in Prague, where your local expert will provide an informative city tour, and you will discover monuments, including Prague Castle dominates the city, before you take a boat tour on the Vltava River.
Madrid and Venice headline the 'South of Europe' tour, a 13-day city sightseeing adventure designed for mature explorers. Glide from Spain’s lively capital to Italy’s romantic waterways, all while enjoying included accommodation, transport, and meals. The itinerary’s relaxed pace and thoughtful planning make it especially appealing for seniors, ensuring plenty of time to absorb the sights without feeling rushed. This trip’s special draw is its direct, scenic route connecting southern Europe’s most beloved cities, with every detail handled for your comfort and peace of mind.
Over all tour is amazing met so many nice people. Only negative comment is not enough time inside eiffel we stayed for 30 mins, recommended for at least 1 hour inside not including the time to walk in the bus. Rome forum also is really really short to stay inside. We were inside the forum for 30.mins. we need at 1.5 to 2 hours. Not including the meeting time. Usually it takes 10 to 15 mins to go to the Bus pick up. You need more like Eva and Sylvia as a tour guide. Both of them are very happy, energetic and approachable.
Seeking a comprehensive European exploration? The 17-day 'European Spotlight' tour takes you from Lisbon to Rome, visiting Paris, Lyon, Zurich, and five more destinations along the way. With a focus on comfort and ease for mature travelers, this group city sightseeing journey provides hotels, transport, and meals. The unique benefit is the extensive itinerary, allowing you to experience a broad swath of Europe’s cultural and scenic highlights in a single trip.
The trip was good. Just need to be considerate about the comfort of your clients on the hotels you choose to book them, somewhere that will make them more comfortable after a long day trip. Some of your guides are exceptionally very good, however some of your guides does not know how to communicate well with their passengers hence some miscommunication. The rest of the trip was well organized, you have very good bus drivers. Just need to improve some your itineraries.
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.
If you’ve ever dreamed of tracing Europe’s most celebrated cities, the "Crossing Europe end Rome" trip offers a 17-day guided sightseeing adventure from Dublin to Rome. Designed with seniors in mind, this group tour covers Paris, Liverpool, London, and several other captivating destinations across France, Switzerland, and more. Enjoy included hotel stays, transport, and meals, with an itinerary that places comfort and accessibility at the forefront. The unique appeal of this trip lies in its diverse selection of destinations, offering a panoramic view of Europe for travelers seeking both variety and ease.
Delight in Italy’s treasures on the 14-day Golden Italy and Beautiful Campania tour, crafted for seniors who appreciate culture and comfort. Journey from Rome through Milan, Verona, and six other enchanting locales, experiencing a tapestry of art, architecture, and cuisine. With accommodations, transport, and meals taken care of, you’ll enjoy a worry-free exploration of Italy’s northern and southern gems. The standout feature of this tour is its blend of iconic cities and picturesque regions, providing a complete Italian sightseeing experience without the stress.
Welcome to 15 days of pure Italian travel immersion with your squad of awesome 35-45 year old travellers. Covering Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice and beyond, this one brings you the blissful best of this soul-stirring country. Explore Rome's historical highlights, travel through the streets of Michelangelo's Florence, indulge in some authentic pasta on the Amalfi Coast. Stop by to see the stooping slopes of Sorrento in the breezy winter or the picture perfect Positano for your summery soul. And that's just an aperitivo. Beauty, romance and all the pasta you can fit in; the good life just got even better. That's amore!
Alessandra GalassiTravel Expert in Italy
Danilo CataniaTravel Expert in Italy
Enrico Maria MalacarneTravel Expert in Italy
Elena KyrimiTravel Expert in Greece & Italy
