Contiki vs Topdeck
+ Global JourneysCompare Contiki's and Topdeck's tours, including their travel styles, inclusions, destinations, pricing, accommodation and popularity with past travellers, to see which operator is the better fit for your next journey.
We asked Contiki why you should travel with them, here's what they said...
Contiki are the world leaders in travel experiences for 18-35’s. We exist to connect young travellers to the time of their lives. We believe in real experiences and we care about making sure these experiences contribute positively to the people and places we visit. We are focused on discovery, once-in-a-lifetime moments, human connections, and making every second of being young count.
For over 55 years we’ve been perfecting the secret formula to the perfect trip - we know you’re after unique experiences, local insight and accommodation that’s read more more than a place to sleep. We run over 350 trips across 6 continents, each one designed to get to the beating heart of a destination, understanding the local way of life, unearthing unforgettable experiences and creating lifelong memories. Real experiences, unique accommodation, local food, the best team and awesome people all deliver Contiki’s no regrets experience.
Total No. Tours
Departures
Average tour length
Average price per dayThe low down on Contiki from our expert team of advisors at Global Journeys...
Over 35? Then Contiki is not for you. With tours and adventures designed for the 18-35's through Asia, Africa, North and South America and Europe, you'll need lots of energy for the good times ahead. Traditionally Contiki trips have been known for their late nights, lots of sleeping on the coach, and some sightseeing on the side. Contiki's philosophy of #NOREGRETS is about changing your perspective on the world, walking in others shoes, witnessing different cultures, religions, and ways of living. But most of all, it’s about living life out loud, unashamedly and completely, loving every single second of being young!
Primarily social travellers aged 18-35 from around the world, including a high proportion of solo travellers.
18-35 years only.
In Europe and most of North America and New Zealand, groups generally range from 24 to 53 travellers. In Asia, Australia, Africa and Latin America, groups are typically smaller at around 12 to 30.
Yes. Around 70% of Contiki travellers join their trip solo, making it particularly well suited to travellers wanting to meet people of a similar age.
70%
Yes. A single supplement applies and single-room pricing and availability is shown for each departure.
Yes. Twin or multi-share same-sex accommodation is standard on many trips, with up to six guests sharing in some properties and up to eight at festivals.
Accommodation varies by destination and trip style and can include hotels, hostels, lodges, resorts, boats, glamping, safari camps and distinctive Special Stays.
Meals not specified, optional Free Time Add-Ons, extra sightseeing, alcoholic drinks, shopping and evening entertainment.
Yes. Trips are managed by an expert Contiki Trip Manager, who generally stays with the group throughout the journey, supported by a Driver where applicable.
Yes. Local guides are used for selected city tours, sightseeing and destination experiences.
Significant free time is built into itineraries, allowing travellers to explore independently, relax or choose optional Free Time Add-Ons.
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We asked Topdeck why you should travel with them, here's what they said...
Topdeck's origin story was small group touring. It was 14 absolute adventurers who were fun and spirited and ready to go out there and see everything. At the end of the 90's and into the 2000's, Topdeck moved to large coaches and now we're returning to or roots. Our travellers don’t see bigger groups as ‘more social’ -they want to connect quickly, with like-minded people, in a way that feels less overwhelming and less intrusive.
Small group touring unlocks up so many opportunities. We can now get into local tavernas or hole-in-the-wall restaurants, read more sit family-style, and build that cultural connection. We can run small optional expereinces and secure entry to highlights like the Alhambra much more easily than with a large coach. It makes each experience more immersive and flexible.
What’s changed is the trip itself: better choice of centrally located accommodation, richer in-destination experiences, and more inclusivity.
Total No. ToursDeparturesAverage tour lengthAverage price per dayThe low down on Topdeck from our expert team of advisors at Global Journeys...
Topdeck has undergone a complete brand refresh and their big bus tours are out. An all-new portfolio of small group tours for travellers aged 18 to 32 have been released. There's a maximum of 18 travellers on each trip along with a more targeted age range that has narrowed from 18-39 to 18-32. With a renewed focus on connection, Topdeck's small group trips prioritise authentic, genuine interactions with fellow travellers. Smaller groups allow for a more connected and personal exploration of each destination and a more inclusive and communal atmosphere.
While Europe makes up the backbone of Topdeck's range, they also run a series of tours through read more Asia, Egypt, Morocco and New Zealand. Topdeck's new trips take advantage of public transport where they can - like the use trains over coaches to allow more time in key cities and less time spent travelling.
Young travellers aged 18 to 32, with a highly social and international guest mix. Around 70% book solo, alongside couples and groups of friends.
Exclusively designed for travellers aged 18 to 32.
A maximum of 18 travellers on Topdeck's small-group trips.
Around 70% of Topdeck bookings are made by solo travellers, and being small-groups, it makes it easier to meet other travellers while still providing time to explore independently.
70%
Yes. Single rooms are available on most trips for an additional charge, with twin and double upgrades also available on many itineraries.
Yes. Solo travellers can choose multi-share accommodation with other Topdeck travellers. Room configurations vary by trip, with multi-share rooms typically accommodating around six people in total.
A mix of centrally located hotels and hostels, with distinctive stays on selected itineraries such as floating bungalows, treehouses, campsites, sailing boats and overnight trains.
Arrival and departure transfers, meals not listed as included, optional 'Your Options' activities, entrance fees and excursions not specifically included in the itinerary. Tips are generally included, with some destination and sailing exceptions.
Yes. A Topdeck Trip Leader accompanies the group, manages the logistics and provides destination recommendations and local insights throughout the journey.
Specialist or local guides may be used for selected experiences, while the main sightseeing and day-to-day journey is led by the Topdeck Trip Leader.
Topdeck aims to provide at least 48 hours in each key city, combining included activities with substantial free time and optional 'Your Options' experiences.
Fitness requirements vary by itinerary and activity. Trips can include extensive sightseeing on foot and optional active experiences, so travellers should check the individual itinerary for any more demanding activities.
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