Mega European

Touchdown in the big smoke.

Your adventure begins: you've landed in London and your adventure starts now. After dropping your bags, it's time to meet the fellow travellers you'll be sharing stories, snacks and train carriages with for the next few weeks.

Tuck in, UK-style: your first group dinner is all sorted – think cosy pub fare, full plates and hearty introductions. Whether you're into shepherd's pie or a solid veggie roast, there's something to warm everyone up.

Ease into it: still adjusting to the time zone? No shame in calling it an early night. But if you're buzzing with excitement, head out for a low-key wander or a celebratory drink around the corner. Stay: Generator London (or similar) (D)

Bienvenue à Paris.

London out, Paris in: hop on the Eurostar and watch the British countryside blur into French fields – it's just over two hours from London to Paris, but the language, the pastries and the energy shift fast.

Picnic like a pro: after dropping your bags, head out to forage for picnic goodies – crusty baguette, gooey cheese and maybe something bubbly if you're feeling fancy. You'll want snacks on hand for tonight's dreamy intro to the city.

Dinner with a view: if there's time, we'll be picnicking on the Seine – you'll float past the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame and all the big-name sights as the sun dips and the city lights flicker on. Paris sure knows how to make a good first impression. Stay: St Christopher's Inn Paris (or similar) (B)

Pedals, pastries and Parisian streets.

Morning on wheels: start your day with an optional bike ride through the city – there'll be breezy boulevards, quiet courtyards and a front-row seat to Paris waking up. Not a cyclist? No stress – enjoy a slow morning with a café crème instead.

Montmartre magic: meet your Trip Leader this afternoon for a walking tour through one of Paris's most Instagrammable neighbourhoods. There'll be flaky croissants, melt-in-your-mouth éclairs and – if you're feeling brave – a taste of escargot (or snails for the uninitiated).

A view to remember: we'll wrap things up at the Sacré-Cœur, with sweeping views over the rooftops. Paris filter loaded, snacks still digesting – it's a pretty perfect way to end the day. Stay: St Christopher's Inn Paris (or similar) (B/L)

Choose your own Paris.

Make the day yours: it's a free day in the City of Light, and whether you're here for art, architecture or just really good bread, you've got options. Climb the Eiffel Tower, wander past Notre-Dame or lose track of time in the Louvre. There's no wrong way to do Paris – just follow whatever catches your eye (or tastebuds).

A royal detour: join the optional day trip to Versailles – there's golden gates, endless gardens and next-level palace drama a-plenty.

Evening thrills: feeling flirty? There's an optional cabaret on offer tonight – feathers, sequins, champagne and all. Or keep things relaxed with a sunset stroll and one last pastry. Paris delivers, whatever the pace. Stay: St Christopher's Inn Paris (or similar) (B)

Trade croissants for coastlines.

Seaside strolls, Basque-style: once we arrive in San Sebastián, your Trip Leader will show you the city's hot spots on a relaxed walking tour. There'll be Instagram-worthy streets, an elegant seaside atmosphere and plenty of photo ops along the way.

Small bites, big flavours: we'll wrap up the day with an included pintxos dinner – a delicious introduction to Basque cuisine. Expect to hop between local bars, sample bite-sized delights and toast to the start of a very tasty adventure. Stay: Downtown River Hostel (or similar) (B/D)

Sun, surf and seaside serenity.

Surf's up or strolls a-plenty: wake up to the laid-back charm of San Sebastián and let the day unfold at your own pace. Golden sands, glittering waves and just the right amount of smugness that you're here and not at your desk – San Sebastián's beaches are the Basque coast at its finest. Spend your morning watching the surfers catch waves at Zurriola Beach or take a leisurely walk along La Concha promenade, soaking up sea air so fresh it should be bottled and gawking at that gorgeous bay.

Later, your way: as the day winds down, make your way to Peine del Viento, the iconic wind comb sculpture by the sea. It's the perfect vantage point to catch a spectacular sunset, so settle in and watch the sky blaze with colour and feel the ocean breeze on your skin. With the night still young, explore San Sebastián's lively bars and restaurants or simply relax with a good book by the water. Stay: Downtown River Hostel (or similar) (B)

Barcelona's a-calling.

Gaudi awaits: after touching down in Barcelona , you'll meet your local guide for a visit to the iconic Sagrada Familia. With its soaring towers and kaleidoscopic windows, this architectural wonder is unlike anything you've seen before. Get ready for a hit of Gaudí magic: where wavy walls, candy-coloured towers and fever dream collide.

End your day with a bang: if you're feeling inspired after all that sightseeing, join an optional flamenco show this evening. Expect foot-stomping, heart-pounding, castanet-clicking drama that brings a fiery finish to your day in Barcelona. Olé! Stay: MEININGER Hotel Barcelona Fira Gran Via (or similar) (B)

Gothic streets and market eats.

Step back in time: this morning, meet your Trip Leader for a walking tour through Barcelona's atmospheric Gothic Quarter. Lose yourself in a maze of cobbled alleyways, leafy plazas and centuries-old cathedrals as you uncover the city's Roman roots and medieval past.

Taste the city: after wandering the old town, you'll stroll over to the Mercat de Santa Caterina, a local favourite known for its buzzing food stalls. Here, you'll tuck into a selection of classic Catalan bites – croquettes, cheese, jamón and olives – all washed down with a glass of something delicious – the kind of research we can get behind. Welcome to Barcelona's bold, flavour-packed food scene.

Gather round the table (yes, again): tonight's shared dinner is your third feast of the day, so loosen that belt and prepare for round three. Good food, great company and plenty of laughs as you look back on your first full day in Barcelona. Buen provecho! Stay: MEININGER Hotel Barcelona Fira Gran Via (or similar)gs (B/L/D)

Gaudí's garden and a Provençal journey.

Whimsy meets wonder: this morning, you'll head to the vibrant heights of Parc Güell, Gaudí's fairytale playground of mosaic lizards, candy-coloured benches and curving stone pathways. As you stroll through this surreal landscape, take a moment to soak up the view: the city's glamour meets the sea's sparkle, and you're right in the middle of it.

A new chapter begins: it's time to bid adiós to Catalonia and say bonjour to the sweet seduction of southern France. Sink into your seat as the countryside rolls by, until Provence sweeps you off your feet with sun-soaked fields and lavender-laced air. The evening is yours to make memorable – will it be a sunset wander, a flirtation with a glass of rosé or simply letting the languid pace of French country life work its magic? Stay: Ibis Avignon Centre Pont de l'Europe (or similar) (B)

A taste of Provence.

Provence at your own pace: today's a free day to wander, explore or just kick back however you like. Whether you're chasing corners of sleepy villages, stocking up on smelly cheese at a local market or staking out a shady perch to people watch like a pro, today is yours to make memorable.

A decadent dinner: tuck into some delicious Provençal delights while swapping stories of your favourite market finds and bask in more joie de vivre than you can wave a baguette at. Stay: Ibis Avignon Centre Pont de l'Europe (or similar) (B/D)

From vineyards to vistas.

Coastline calling: this morning, we leave behind Avignon's countryside allure and head for the sparkling shores of the French Riviera. Our destination? Nice – where sun-soaked beaches meet elegant Belle Époque (that's beautiful era for anyone whose French is on the rusty side) streets.

Settle in, then set out: once you've checked in, the afternoon is all yours – time to revel in the new surroundings. Wander along the famous Promenade des Anglais, treat yourself to a gelato or just kick back and immerse yourself in that irresistible Riviera energy. Stay: Hostel Ozz (or similar) (B)

Sun-soaked mornings and Monaco glamour.

Nice and easy: start your day the Riviera way with a steaming coffee and a buttery croissant while gazing out over the sparkling Mediterranean. Whether you want to stroll through the colourful Old Town or simply relax by the sea, this morning sets the perfect pace.

Monaco magic: after a short journey with your Trip Leader, you'll arrive in the playground of the rich and famous. Wander the yacht-filled harbour where luxury cars zip by, and take a guided walking tour through the compact principality—perfect for pretending, just for a little while, that you belong to Monaco's glittering jet-set. It won't take long to see why Monaco's old-school elegance makes you feel like you've wandered onto a movie set.

Later, your way: strut like a local along the Promenade des Anglais as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Mediterranean. Pop into a tucked-away bistro for socca (the ultimate chickpea crêpe), a zingy salade niçoise or seafood so fresh it might wink at you. This is Riviera living at its tastiest. Stay: Hostel Ozz (or similar) (B)

Next stop: Florence

Goodbye, Côte d'Azur: after soaking up the sparkling sea views and the vibrant Riviera magic, it's time to bid farewell to this sun-soaked corner of France.

Florence awaits: by day's end, you'll land in the heart of Tuscany's Renaissance capital – a city bursting with art, history and irresistible energy. Hop the bus up to Piazzale Michelangelo for iconic views, marvel at the sculptures in Piazza della Signoria and make sure to snap a moment at the iconic Duomo. When it's time to refuel, grab something tasty and bask in all the Florentine magic around you. Get ready to dive headfirst into your Italian adventure! Stay: YellowSquare Florence (or similar) (B)

Under the Tuscan sun.

Florence on foot: lace up your walking shoes and join your local guide for a stroll through Florence's historic streets, soaking up centuries of art, architecture and Renaissance flair.

Panino pause: you'll break up the sightseeing with a pit stop at one of the city's most drool-worthy sandwich shops – you can expect crusty bread piled high with salty-sweet cured meats, rich truffle spreads and all the bold Tuscan flavours packed into one glorious panino. This isn't just a snack, it's a rite of passage. Locals queue for it. Travellers Instagram it. And now it's your turn to try it like a true Florentine – standing in the sunshine, olive oil dripping on your shoes.

Tipsy tales: for those who fancy a little extra fun, join a tipsy tour sampling traditional Italian drinks while uncovering the scandalous, colourful history of Florence. Expect intrigue, laughter and a toast or two. Stay: YellowSquare Florence (or similar) (B/L)

Grazie, Florence, ciao Rome!

Next stop, Rome: leave Florence behind for a quick jaunt into the seductive embrace of Italy's capital.

Roman introductions: once you've settled in, your Trip Leader will take you on a walk through Rome's labyrinth of cobbled streets, mind-blowing ruins and lively piazzas bursting with life – the perfect way to soak up this city's timeless pizzaz.

Flavours of la dolce vita: your Trip Leader's got the inside scoop of the best eats in the city, so along the way, we'll be treating you to some classic Roman flavours – crispy, thin-crust pizza by the slice and gelato so creamy it melts right into the city's lively atmosphere. Stay: YellowSquare Rome (or similar) (B/L)

A Roman holiday.

Roam around Rome: today's a free day to explore the Eternal City at your own pace. Whether you're chasing history, the perfect tiramisu, or both (no judgement if it's the latter), you can be sure that Rome will deliver in style.

Choose your own adventure: toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, climb the Spanish Steps, peek inside the Pantheon or wander the Roman Forum – just be prepared to share the view. These iconic spots are as popular as they are beautiful, so pack your patience and bring your camera. Want to dig deeper? There's an optional tour of the Colosseum for those keen to step inside one of Rome's most legendary landmarks.

When in Rome... cook: this evening, channel your inner Italian nonna with an included cooking class. You'll learn to whip up some classic Roman dishes – then sit down to feast on your own creations with your fellow travellers. Buon appetito! Stay: YellowSquare Rome (or similar) (B/D)

Rome, day due.

Rome, your way: another free day to soak up the magic of Italy's capital. Whether you're ticking off the big sights or just getting lost in the backstreets, Rome *always* has more to offer.

More to explore: step inside the Vatican to crane your neck at Michelangelo's mind-bending ceiling in the Sistine Chapel or follow your taste buds on an optional food tour to nibble and sip your way through the city's culinary delights. Or simply wander at your own pace, pausing for espresso in hidden piazzas, people-watching near Castel Sant'Angelo or browsing local boutiques.

Eat like a Roman: hungry for more? You're in the right place. From flaky sfogliatelle (a shell-shaped pastry) to creamy carbonara, there's no shortage of delicious ways to refuel between sightseeing. Stay: YellowSquare Rome (or similar) (B)

Arriverderci, Rome.

Onwards to Ancona: it's time to leave the Eternal City behind as you travel across Italy to the port town of Ancona.

All aboard for Greece: in Ancona, hop aboard the overnight ferry to Greece. Claim your cabin, wander the deck, and watch the sun melt into the Adriatic – because tomorrow, you'll wake up in a whole new country. Stay: Overnight ferry (B)

Lefkada landing and a Greek feast to finish

Island dreams begin: touch down in Lefkada, where clear blue seas, olive trees and storied streets are all part of the welcome.

Free time to explore: spend your afternoon discovering this laid-back island at your own pace. Wander the waterfront, dip into boutique shops or find a quiet beach to kick back and relax.

Opa ! Dinner is served: tonight, dig into your first taste of Greece with a feast of local delights – think creamy tzatziki, perfectly grilled souvlaki, fresh seafood and sweet baklava. All washed down with good laughs and even better company, it's the perfect way to dive into island life. Stay: Hotel Lefkas (or similar) (B/D)

Coastal calm with a splash of adventure.

Start the day your way: choose from a sleep-in, a sunrise swim or a strong coffee overlooking the waves. With a free morning to relax, read or simply laze by the sea, this is your chance to fully unwind and bask in the coastal calm.

Paddle into paradise: this afternoon, grab a paddle and set off on a sea kayaking adventure. Glide along the coastline, peek into hidden coves and let the ocean do its thing – and yes, that probably includes the occasional capsize (we've been there). It's basically a front-row seat to the sea's best-kept secrets.

Dinner on the sand: after working up an appetite, settle in for a beach picnic dinner. There'll be barefoot dining, great company and golden hour views as the sun sinks low and the sky turns pastel. A perfect end to a dreamy day. Stay: Hotel Lefkas (or similar) (B/D)

Laidback Lefkada, your way.

Your big fat Greek adventure: today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Lounge beneath an umbrella, dip into that book you've been meaning to finish or treat yourself to a long, lazy lunch by the sea. No plans, no pressure – just pure holiday ease.

Dip, drift and discover: if you're up for something more active, there are optional adventures a-plenty. You might hop aboard a boat for a sun-soaked cruise to hidden coves or head inland on a guided hike through olive groves and pine-fringed trails. Whether you choose to dive in or take it slow, the day is yours for making memories. Stay: Hotel Lefkas (or similar) (B)

From island life to city streets.

A taste of Tirana: after a day of road-tripping (and snack-munching), you'll arrive in Tirana, Albania's capital. Woop! Time to stretch your legs on a walking tour with a local guide. Colourful buildings, eclectic architecture and a surprising history give this city its own unique appeal. You'll hear the stories behind the capital's curious mix of old and new, from its communist-era bunkers repurposed into art galleries to the Ottoman mosques tucked between bold modern façades.
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Dinner's on us: tonight, tuck into a group dinner that's the perfect excuse to clink glasses, swap first-day stories and plot the adventures still ahead. Stay: Hotel Destiny (or similar) (B/D)

Discover Tirana your way.

Culture meets curiosity: it's a free day to wander, explore and drink in the city's atmosphere. Kick things off at Bunk'Art, a Cold War bunker turned quirky museum, where Albania's recent history comes to life through art and storytelling. Or pop into the House of Leaves, a hidden corner packed with traditional Albanian crafts and curiosities.

Blloku buzz: later, explore Blloku, once strictly off-limits to ordinary citizens and home to the communist elite. Today, it's Tirana's liveliest neighbourhood, filled with trendy cafés, bars and boutique shops. Sip raki (a spirit flavoured with aniseed) surrounded by retro relics at Komiteti Kafe Muzeum. Stay: Hotel Destiny (or similar) (B)

From Albanian coast to Croatian culture.

Step into history: after arriving in Croatia via quick pit-stop in Montenegro, you'll check-in and gather for an included dinner – the perfect time to show off your best snaps and plot all the fun adventures still to come. Later, meet your local guide for a walking tour through Dubrovnik's legendary city walls, winding streets and secret nooks, each corner bursting with tales of daring sailors, clever merchants, heroic defenders and centuries of history just waiting to be discovered. Stay: Hi Dubrovnik (or similar) (B/D)

Your day, your Dubrovnik adventure.

Walk the walls: start with a climb along Dubrovnik's famous city walls. Stretching nearly two kilometres, this iconic path offers unbeatable panoramic views of terracotta rooftops, the shimmering Adriatic Sea and nearby islands. Don't forget your iPhone – this is one of those views that will be burned into your memory forever.

Island escape: ready for a little detour? Hop on a quick boat ride to Lokrum Island, where fragrant botanical gardens beckon, and a salty little lake – nicknamed the Dead Sea – invites you for a refreshing dip.

Sunset sips: as the day winds down, check out some of Dubrovnik's famous cliff bars, perched on rugged rocks just outside the city walls. Enjoy a cocktail with a sea breeze and spectacular sunset views – the ultimate way to unwind after a day of exploring. Stay: Hi Dubrovnik (or similar) (B)

Chasing waterfalls (and breathtaking views).

From coast to forest: today you'll swap the Adriatic coast for emerald forests and freshwater lakes as you travel from Dubrovnik to Plitvice.

Step into a postcard: entrance to Plitvice Lakes National Park is included, and it's a real showstopper. You'll find cascading waterfalls, glassy lakes in every shade of blue and green and wooden walkways that wind through storybook scenery. Bring your iPhone, your walking shoes and a sense of adventure – this place is pure magic. Stay: Camp Korana (or similar) (B)

Next stop: la bella Venezia.

Glide into the good life: after dropping your bags, you'll head out for an included dinner. Think glittering canals, twinkling candlelight and the irresistible aromas of Italian cuisine – the perfect way to dive straight into the Venice's irresistible allure. Stay: A&O Hostel Venezia Mestre (or similar) (B/D)

Venetian icons and hidden corners.

Start with a splash of classic Venice: in the morning, wander with your Trip Leader through Venice's maze of bridges and canals, then hop into a gondola for the ultimate ride. Paddle your way through the city like a true Venetian VIP, soaking up all the sights (and maybe even striking a pose or two).

Choose your own canal side adventure: the afternoon is yours to explore. It can get a little busy in the main spots, but that's part of the fun. Tick off the big names – St. Mark's Square, the Basilica, the Doge's Palace and the Rialto Bridge – or duck down a quiet alley, cross a lesser-known bridge and discover the quieter side of Venice, where laundry flaps above the canals and every corner looks like a scene from a painting. Stay: A&O Hostel Venezia Mestre (or similar) (B)

From canals to clouds.

Alpine bound: today you'll swap gondolas for glaciers as you travel by train from Venice to Innsbruck through the stunning Brenner Pass. Sit back and enjoy the ride as the scenery shifts from rolling vineyards to dramatic alpine peaks, passing through valleys, hillside towns and postcard-worthy views along the way.

Dinner with a mountain backdrop: once in Innsbruck, check in and enjoy an included dinner. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and crisp mountain air, consider this your scenic intro to Austria. (B/D)

High-altitude highlights.

Pick your alpine thrill: today is a free day to explore the beauty of the Austrian Alps, whether you're in the mood for fresh air, big views or a bit of both. If you're feeling adventurous, take the Nordkette Cable Car up into the mountains or wide-open panoramas that make the city look like a toy town below. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? You can explore alpine villages, take a forest walk or simply sip coffee with a view.

Later, your way: if you choose to stay in Innsbruck, there's plenty to uncover. Visit the striking Ambras Castle, perched on a hill just outside the city, or head to the iconic Bergisel Ski Jump for sweeping views and a peek at Austria's Olympic past. Or just wander the colourful old town, stopping for strudel as you go. Whether high up in the peaks or down in the cobbled streets, the day is yours to enjoy. (B)

Swapping peaks for palaces.

A first taste of Vienna: once you've checked in, your Trip Leader will whisk you away on an orientation tour through Vienna's grand streets and hidden corners. You'll see imperial palaces, bustling squares and a city that feels like a living museum – with a seriously stylish side of café culture.

Then the city's yours to conquer: fancy climbing St. Stephen's Cathedral tower for a view? Or settling into a classic coffee house with a slice of something sweet? Maybe you'll dive into the art scene at the Albertina or Belvedere Palace. Whatever you choose, Vienna is ready to charm your socks off. Stay: A&O Wien Hauptbahnhof (B)

Vienna your way.

Step into the story: today is yours to explore this elegant city however you like. Wander through the opulent halls of Hofburg Palace, admire the soaring spires of St. Stephen's Cathedral or lose yourself in the art treasures at Belvedere Palace. Fancy a change of pace? Stroll through Stadtpark, where gardens, statues, and the ever-dashing Johann Strauss await – perfect for a cheeky photo or just soaking up a golden moment in the city's green heart.

Later, music lovers: for an evening to remember, why not catch an optional concert at the majestic Schönbrunn Palace? From Mozart to Strauss, let Vienna's classical beats sweep around you – it's the kind of music that will have you humming along, swaying in your seat and marvelling at how centuries-old tunes can still send a shiver down your spine. Stay: A&O Wien Hauptbahnhof (B)

All aboard for Budapest.

Dive into Budapest's delights: after settling in, your local guide will whisk you away on a walking tour through Budapest's historic streets. From the striking Parliament building to the vibrant Danube promenade, you'll soon begin to understand just why this city leaves such a lasting impression.

Dinner is served: round off your day with an included dinner, where you can start planning which thermal bath or ruin bar you'll visit next. Stay: Wombat's City Hostel Budapest (or similar) (B/D)

Budapest is yours for the taking.

Float and feast: there's nothing on the agenda today, so why not ease into the morning with a leisurely Danube river cruise, soaking up city vistas from the water – think Buda Castle, the Chain Bridge and a skyline that begs for a selfie. Afterward, meander up to the fairy-tale turrets of Fisherman's Bastion for panoramic views that feel almost cinematic, then duck into Matthias Church with its candy-coloured tiled roof and centuries of stories, from royal coronations to medieval legends.

Mix, mingle and soak: later, why not sink into Budapest's famous thermal baths, like Széchenyi or Gellért, and soak like a local, or track down a quirky ruin bar in the Jewish Quarter to dive headfirst into the city's buzzing nightlife and artsy spirit? Stay: Wombat's City Hostel Budapest (or similar) (B)

Bratislava-bound.

Unlock the city's secrets: after arriving in Slovakie, your Trip Leader will guide you on a walking tour through Bratislava's winding cobblestone streets. Discover hidden courtyards, quirky statues and the storybook beauty of the Old Town.

Dinner delights: wrap up the day with an included dinner, trading tales about the city's quirks and teasing out tomorrow's adventures. Stay: Hotel Tatra (or similar) (B/D)

Hello, Prague!

Morning departure: after breakfast, you'll set off from Bratislava and enjoy a scenic journey north to the magical city of Prague.

Wandering through history: once you arrive, your Trip Leader will take you on a walking tour through the city. Explore the Old Town Square, marvel at the Astronomical Clock and wander across the iconic Charles Bridge.

Dinner awaits: end the day with an included dinner, reliving today's discoveries – the cobbled streets you've wandered, the street musicians who couldn't quite hit a note and the hidden courtyards you stumbled into, while plotting tomorrow's Prague escapades. Stay: The Gold Bank (or similar) (B/D)

Prague your way.

Castle quests and city sails: kick off your day at Prague Castle, wandering grand halls, hunting for hidden corners and soaking in sweeping views of the city below. Don't miss St. Vitus Cathedral with its soaring Gothic spires and centuries of stories tucked inside. Later, switch perspectives with a Vltava river cruise, drifting past bridges, spires and the city's historic rooftops – perfect for spotting your next adventure from the water.

Later, adventure calls: for something a bit different, why not try stand-up paddleboarding on the river or enjoy an optional medieval dinner complete with costumes, tales and hearty fare? Whatever you choose, Prague promises a day full of magic. Stay: The Gold Bank (or similar) (B)

Onwards to Kraków.

Discover Kraków's charm: let your Trip Leader guide you through the city's atmospheric streets, from the bustling Market Square to the spires of St. Mary's Basilica. Keep your eyes peeled for little legends around every corner – like the trumpeter who famously stops mid-note, the Wawel Dragon that still breathes fire, secret courtyards hiding centuries-old stories and tiny artisan shops brimming with amber treasures.

Dinner is served: round off the day with an included dinner, sharing tales of medieval mysteries, street music mishaps and secret corners all while scheming what Kraków has in store next. Stay: MEININGER Kraków Centrum (or similar) (B/D)

Kraków at your own pace.

Step back in time: start your day wandering through the historic Jewish Quarter, where colourful street art pops, cosy cafés call your name and history has a few surprises up its sleeve. Then make your way up to Wawel Hill, home to the majestic castle and cathedral, then visit St. Mary's Basilica with its famous trumpet call. Don't forget to stroll along the Royal Road, the ancient route of kings and processions, packed with spark and stories.

Your day, your call: after a day of soaking in culture and sampling local treats, cap it off with an optional vodka tasting, the kind of cultural deep dive that comes with a spirited kick. Stay: MEININGER Kraków Centrum (or similar) (B)

Next stop, Warsaw!

City stroll: once you arrive in Warsaw, your Trip Leader will take you on a walking tour through the city's storied streets. Discover the beautifully rebuilt Old Town, see the Royal Castle and explore lively squares filled with cafes and street performers, who might just turn your stroll into an impromptu front-row show.

Dinner plans: wrap up the day with an included dinner, ideal for swapping pierogi-fuelled tales, royal route sightings and your best attempt at Polish pronunciations. Stay: A&O Warschau Wola (or similar) (B/D)

Dive into history.

Morning at the museum: start your day with a visit to the Warsaw Uprising Museum, where immersive exhibits and powerful stories bring this pivotal chapter of history to life.

Your afternoon, your adventure: the rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. Check out the towering Palace of Culture and Science, then wander through leafy Łazienki Park—where peacocks strut like divas and Chopin's melodies float through the air, turning the afternoon into a daydream.

Later, your way: dive into world-class galleries, chase down Warsaw's dreamiest flat white or get gloriously lost in the backstreets – there's something here for every kind of evening. Stay: A&O Warschau Wola (or similar) (B)

Hallo, Berlin!

Afternoon at your pace: once you arrive, the afternoon is yours to explore. Roam Charlottenburg Palace's gardens like you're in a period drama, snap a few photos at Brandenburg Gate (bonus points for dramatic poses) or wander the Tiergarten and see who can spot the quirkiest statue first.”

Evening feast: round off the day with an included dinner – the ideal setting for trading wild walking tour tales and raising a fork to Berlin's bold flavours and big personality. Stay: A&O Hostel Berlin Hauptbahnhof (or similar) (B/D)

Berlin served up with flavour and flair.

Late morning delight: kick off your Berlin adventure with a wartime-themed walking tour led by a local guide – with a tasty twist at the end. Expect to see the big sights and to snack like a true Berliner.

Your afternoon, your choice: after the tour, enjoy some free time to explore on your own. For the curious and creative, there's an optional street art tour where you can discover Berlin's vibrant urban canvas and hidden murals. Stay: A&O Hostel Berlin Hauptbahnhof (or similar) (B/L)

A day of depth and downtime.

Step back in time: spend the day visiting Sachsenhausen, a former concentration camp that's a haunting site that offers important insights into the city's history.

Evening at your own pace: afterwards, enjoy some free time to wander, grab dinner or simply relax before your overnight journey.

Overnight train adventure: it's time to settle in for your overnight journey to Amsterdam. Watch the city lights fade as you unwind and travel through the heart of Europe, waking up in the Netherlands. Grab some snacks at the station, get cosy and let the rhythm of the rails lull you to sleep – tomorrow brings a brand-new city to explore. Stay: European sleeper (or similar) (B)

Welkom to Amsterdam.

Your Amsterdam adventure begins: an early arrival means you can drop your bags and kick off the day with a relaxed breakfast – fuel up for your Dutch adventure, perhaps even with a slice of bread smothered in hagelslag chocolate sprinkles, because why not start the day with a little indulgence?

Pedal and taste: bike your way through Amsterdam's zigzagging canals and quirky streets on an included bike tour, finishing up at the lively Albert Cuyp Market. Along the way, your Trip Leader will hunt down some classic Dutch snacks for the group – if you're feeling adventurous go for the raw herring, or there's the crispy kibbeling (battered chunks of fish), creamy cheese tastings and fluffy poffertjes (that's pancakes to those not in the know) await.

Something sweet: keep the mood going with an optional stroopwafel-making workshop – because who can resist learning to whip up those gooey, caramel-filled Dutch treats yourself? It's hands-on, fun, and yes, deliciously sticky. Perfect for sweet tooths and curious cooks alike. Stay: Hans Brinker (or similar) (B/L)

Art, eats and everything in between.

A day to roam: spend your free day exploring Amsterdam's art scene at the Rijksmuseum, Moco Museum, or Van Gogh Museum – or skip straight to the Foodhallen, where you could happily spend all day tasting treats from every corner of the globe (hey, Van Gogh can wait).

Celebrate in style: come evening, tuck into a farewell feast, then glide away on a magical canal cruise, basking in those twinkling city lights one last time. It's the ultimate Amsterdam mic drop. Stay: Hans Brinker (or similar) (B/D)

All aboard for London.

A fast track to farewell: all aboard the high-speed Eurostar at Amsterdam Centraal! As the countryside whizzes by, take a moment to relive the whirlwind of nearly 50 days – countless cobbled streets wandered, pastries devoured, secret courtyards discovered and friendships that somehow feel like they've been part of your life forever. Sit back, let the memories roll like the scenery outside and bask in the strange, sweet feeling that comes with the end of an unforgettable European adventure. (B)