We'll arrive in Vienna full of excitement and ready for coffee & sachertorte, otherwise known as the world's greatest chocolate cake. Get to know your new travel squad over dinner tonight, and maybe a few schnaps, since we're in Austria after all. (D) Stay: JO&JOE Vienna (or similar)

Rise up travellers and start practicing your Polish pleasantries, we'll be in Krakow later today so they may come in handy. Today we will change pace once we cross the border, as we drop to an unfamiliar and sobering level by visiting the concentration camp memorials of Auschwitz & Birkenau. Learning and growing is what we travellers do.

Then it's on to the city of Kraków, famed for its beautiful old town and the cool, creative vibes of the Kazimierz district. Settle in tonight - tomorrow's all about exploring everything this gem has to offer. (B/D) Stay: Ibis budget Krakow Stare Miasto (or similar)

Join an Orientation tour to get to know the city's best beer spots and historical hotspots then you're free to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed centre in your own time. A Jewish Quarter, a jaw-dropping castle & museums aplenty are just some of the relics found in the relatively untouched Krakow. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Polish evening and try Pierogi, a Polish favourite - these dumplings are an absolute classic. (B)

Alpine scenery and traditional villages will make our departure from Krakow more manageable. Particularly with the knowledge that we have Budapest coming up in the eve. Pastel painted and manicured to perfection, Banska Bystrica is a lunch break that will charm you to no end. Being in Slovakia, it's also your chance to brag 3 countries in one day - you crazy globetrotter you.

Welcome to Hungary! Coming in at number 3 on our list of countries ticked off through the day. From the moment we arrive in the river split city, you'll understand why we needed a couple of nights here. Waste no time getting involved with Budapest by joining the optional river cruise and dinner. (B) Stay: A&O Budapest (or similar)

The day is yours to tackle Budapest however you see fit. After all the travelling we've done, you've probably earned yourself an afternoon soaking in one of the cities most famous thermal baths. Blissed out in Budapest - there's an insta caption for you. If gardens, fountains, pools and ruins are the call of your day, put Margaret Island top and centre of your to do list. (B)

This morning we say goodbye to the city of Budapest and head south to Slovenia! Though the name Ljubljana might not be as well known as Budapest, that doesn't diminish its delight as a European city. In fact, its undiscovered charm is all part of the fascination... WOW is probably the one word we hear in unison as we pull up at this jaw dropping lake. Don't forget to keep your swimmers out today, this is the perfect place for a dip to break up the journey, and grab a few lust-worthy snaps. 

Aesthetically wonderful and filled with youthful moods, Ljubljana is one to love for its off the tourist trail vibes and casual attitude. We'll kick things off with a city tour on arrival, then it's all about getting cosy in a local cafe and soaking up the endless laid-back feels. (B) Stay: Ljubljana Resort (or similar)

So long Ljubljana, your unique charm will remain in our hearts forever. Hitting the road, we'll journey for the globally adored hot spot of Venice. Whoop! Yes, it's as cute as you imagine. Yes, you'll feel like you're part of an Italian fairytale. We'll be jumping aboard our own motoscafo and hitting the canals en route to the historical heart of the city. A gondola ride is up for grabs, or you can discover Venice with a guided food tour, both totally optional. Or simply choose to get lost on your own and see where the maze takes you. (B) Stay: Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)

Farewell floating city, but Italy, we're not done with you yet, our next destination the Eternal City is just around the corner.

This afternoon will really take it up a notch as we uncover Italian icons in the country's capital of Rome. Try a pasta making class and cook a homemade meal for dinner? If that's not your style feel free to explore and get a glimpse of Rome's glory by night. (B) Stay: YellowSquare (or similar)

Rome wasn't built in a day but we sure can try and see it all in one day! Snap pink azaleas by the Colosseum, toss coins into the Trevi Fountain, and sip espresso as we wander through piazzas. It's all the iconic Roman vibes, one step at a time. (B)

Lets hit the road as we have more of Italy to lust over… 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 Florence. For those of you not familiar with the whole Florence deal, we have two words for you: it's heaven.

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is more proof that Italy has so many great places packed into one small region. Potter along the River Arno, be totally Tuscan with another drop of Chianti wine, and take in the beauty of the city and its protruding Duomo Cathedral. We have all day tomorrow to let the explorations continue. (B)

Today is a perfect balance of guided wisdom, food and free time to roam. Take the opportunity to explore streets bursting with heritage and delicious flavours as you explore the local markets and down some gelato. But wait, there's more. Wanna know how you make the best pizza in town? You've got the option to do that too! (B)

Hopefully by now you are head to toe in fresh leather, you've eaten your bodyweight 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 Swiss Alps. 

Bunking down tonight amid fairytale snowcapped mountains for an optional fondue dinner shows how far we've come since golden Florence this morning, and that right there is the magic of Europe. Tomorrow we'll set out to explore this magical land of cheese, chocolate and watches. (B) Stay: Adventure Hostel Interlaken (or similar)

Open the window of your room & drink in the incredible view - if you can find words or photos that do it justice, we applaud you! If you're feeling audacious, opt to take a trip to a Swiss mountain with your travel crew or go paragliding. Otherwise you're free to explore this classic European adventure town. (B)

Out with the altitude, in with the inner-city Parisian bliss. Once we've crossed the border out of Switzerland we will be coasting through the pretty wine producing region of Burgundy before our arrival in Paris. We'll reach Paris and enjoy an included dinner before a chance to explore the glittering city of lights. (B/D) Stay: Jo&Joe Gentilly (or similar)

If you're waiting for a chance to indulge yourself in all things Paris, today is your day. Stock up on perfume at the Fragonard Perfumery.

Later you can moan over haute couture you can't afford, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral whilst juggling coffee and crêpes, & get artsy at the many rooms of the Louvre. Just don't wear yourself out, you will probably want to get involved with dinner and a cabaret show. With your last night looming, make it one to remember in the city of lights. (B)

Soak up your last dose of Paris and feel the astonishment of how much you've seen on this trip. And how close you've grown to your loved-up Contiki collective. For those not leaving us until London, we'll travel north to Calais.

This afternoon we cross from France to England... What a journey, if you've chosen to end your trip in London, say a fond farewell to the remainder of your group as you wrap up this adventure. (B)

Hello and welcome to Vienna! Say hello to your new crew before we jump right into our very first day of adventure.  Today we will change pace once we cross the border, as we drop to an unfamiliar and sobering level by visiting the concentration camp memorials of Auschwitz & Birkenau. Learning and growing is what we travellers do.

Then it's on to the city of Kraków, famed for its beautiful old town and the cool, creative vibes of the Kazimierz district. Settle in tonight - tomorrow's all about exploring everything this gem has to offer. (B/D) Stay: Ibis budget Krakow Stare Miasto (or similar)

Join an Orientation tour to get to know the city's best beer spots and historical hotspots then you're free to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed centre in your own time. A Jewish Quarter, a jaw-dropping castle & museums aplenty are just some of the relics found in the relatively untouched Krakow. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Polish evening and try Pierogi, a Polish favourite - these dumplings are an absolute classic. (B)

Alpine scenery and traditional villages will make our departure from Krakow more manageable. Particularly with the knowledge that we have Budapest coming up in the eve. Pastel painted and manicured to perfection, Banska Bystrica is a lunch break that will charm you to no end. Being in Slovakia, it's also your chance to brag 3 countries in one day - you crazy globetrotter you.

Welcome to Hungary! Coming in at number 3 on our list of countries ticked off through the day. From the moment we arrive in the river split city, you'll understand why we needed a couple of nights here. Waste no time getting involved with Budapest by joining the optional river cruise and dinner. (B) Stay: A&O Budapest (or similar)

The day is yours to tackle Budapest however you see fit. After all the travelling we've done, you've probably earned yourself an afternoon soaking in one of the cities most famous thermal baths. Blissed out in Budapest - there's an insta caption for you. If gardens, fountains, pools and ruins are the call of your day, put Margaret Island top and centre of your to do list. (B)

This morning we say goodbye to the city of Budapest and head south-west to Slovenia! Though the name Ljubljana might not be as well known as Budapest, that doesn't diminish its delight as a European city. In fact, its undiscovered charm is all part of the fascination... WOW is probably the one word we hear in unison as we pull up at this jaw dropping lake. Don't forget to keep your swimmers out today, this is the perfect place for a dip to break up the journey, and grab a few lust-worthy snaps. 

Aesthetically wonderful and filled with youthful moods, Ljubljana is one to love for its off the tourist trail vibes and casual attitude. We'll kick things off with a city orientation on arrival, then it's all about getting cosy in a local cafe and soaking up the endless laid-back feels. (B) Stay: Ljubljana Resort (or similar)

So long Ljubljana, your unique charm will remain in our hearts forever. Hitting the road, we'll journey for the globally adored hot spot of Venice. Whoop! Yes, it's as cute as you imagine. Yes, you'll feel like you're part of an Italian fairytale. We'll be jumping aboard our own motoscafo and hitting the canals en route to the historical heart of the city. A gondola ride is up for grabs, or you can discover Venice with a guided food tour, both totally optional. Or simply choose to get lost on your own and see where the maze takes you. (B) Stay: Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)

Farewell floating city, but Italy, we're not done with you yet, our next destination the Eternal City is just around the corner.

This afternoon will really take it up a notch as we uncover Italian icons in the country's capital of Rome. Try a pasta making class and cook a homemade meal for dinner? If that's not your style feel free to explore and get a glimpse of Rome's glory by night. (B) Stay: YellowSquare (or similar)

Rome wasn't built in a day but we sure can try and see it all in one day! Snap pink azaleas by the Colosseum, toss coins into the Trevi Fountain, and sip espresso as we wander through piazzas. It's all the iconic Roman vibes, one step at a time. (B)

Let's hit the road as we have more of Italy to lust over…For those of you not familiar with the whole Florence deal, we have two words for you: it's heaven. Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is more proof that Italy has so many great places packed into one small region. Potter along the River Arno, be totally Tuscan with another drop of Chianti wine, and take in the beauty of the city and its protruding Duomo Cathedral. Plus, there's an optional Tuscan dinner lined up for you tonight. (B) Stay: Re-Dama Hostel (or similar)

Hopefully by now you are head to toe in fresh leather, you've eaten your bodyweight 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 Swiss Alps. 

Bunking down tonight amid fairytale snowcapped mountains for an optional fondue dinner shows how far we've come since golden Florence this morning, and that right there is the magic of Europe. Tomorrow we'll set out to explore this magical land of cheese, chocolate and watches. (B) Stay: Adventure Hostel Interlaken (or similar)

Open the window of your room & drink in the incredible view - if you can find words or photos that do it justice, we applaud you! If you're feeling audacious, opt to take a trip to a Swiss mountain with your travel crew or go paragliding. Otherwise you're free to explore this classic European adventure town. (B)

It's been sweet, but we're swapping Switzerland for France this afternoon.  But first, there's just time for one last breath of fresh mountain air. A quick lunch break in the home of the UN's headquarters and a view of that oh so famous water fountain. Grab a bite to eat and a last mouthful of delish swiss chocolate (try saying that three times fast) and then we'll be on our way.

Rolling into the Beaujolais region of France amidst vineyards, we'll arrive at Contiki's very own 16th century château. This might just be our most decadent accommodation yet, complete with newly-renovated bedrooms & bathrooms, an on-site nightclub, artwork in every room, a games room, and a powder room for makeup and hair. And we haven't even shown you the pool or the gardens yet! Tonight we'll start off with an included dinner and wine tasting here at the château, because, when in France... (B/D) Stay: Château de Cruix (or similar)

Pinch yourself, this is another day at the Château & another chance to live your best French countryside life with a full day here in Beaujolais. Rise & shine with sunrise yoga on the sprawling lawn of the Château's gardens or loll about poolside in our castle-like setting. Our highlight today is a picnic in the picturesque gardens. Cue panoramic views & red wine. (B/L/D)

Yes, yes, you could stay here forever, but unfortunately the show must go on. And there is more French fabulousness just around the corner, we promise.  After coasting through the pretty wine producing region of Burgundy, we'll arrive in the City of Lights. Lamp-lit bridges, a sparkling Eiffel Tower, & evening coffee haunts, this evening we'll fall in love with everything Paris on a dreamy night-time tour. Is it just us, or is love in the air? (B/D) Stay: A conveniently located hostel

If you're waiting for a chance to indulge yourself in all things Paris, today is your day. Stock up on perfume at the Fragonard Perfumery.

Later you can moan over haute couture you can't afford, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral whilst juggling coffee and crêpes, & get artsy at the many rooms of the Louvre. Just don't wear yourself out, you will probably want to get involved with dinner and a cabaret show. With your last night looming, make it one to remember in the city of lights. (B) Stay: Jo&Joe Gentilly (or similar)

Soak up your last dose of Paris and feel the astonishment of how much you've seen on this trip. And how close you've grown to your loved-up Contiki collective. For those not leaving us until London, we'll travel north to Calais.

This afternoon we cross from France to England... What a journey, if you've chosen to end your trip in London, say a fond farewell to the remainder of your group as you wrap up this adventure. (B)