Central & Western Europe: City Meets Coast

You've made it!

Arrival and welcome: dump your bags at your central hostel and meet the small group of explorers you'll be spending the next three weeks with. We know you're going to *love* them.

Our first dinner: British food sometimes gets a bad rap – but your first group dinner is going to prove the haters wrong. Pies, potatoes and pasties are the food of gods, anyway.

Later, your way: feeling the jet lag? Grab a quiet moment back at the hostel after dinner. Already on London time? Dive into the local pub scene – the pickled eggs are calling... Stay: Generator London (or similar) (D)

Paris: let's see what you've got.

Eurostar to Paris: forget faffing about with coaches – today you'll jump on the Eurostar, getting to Paris in just over two hours. Time cannot be wasted when crêpes are waiting.

Evening cruise along the Seine: unleash your inner kid-watching-fireworks as you cruise down the Seine River and see Paris sparkle to life – this is when the Eiffel Tower brings the magic. If there's time before, peruse the aisles of a wonder-filled Franprix supermarket and BYO picnic on board for that little extra je ne sais quoi. Stay: MIJE Marais (or similar) (B)

Explore the City of Love your way this morning. Then fall in love with an éclair later.

A free morning : stretch your legs on an optional bike tour around the city, or fully commit to the pastry scene and embark on a self-guided patisserie marathon. You'll regret nothing.

Bonjour Montmartre: this afternoon's all about Montmartre: an arty, hilltop neighbourhood packed with cobbled streets, panoramic city views, and buckets of charm. Your Trip Leader will treat you to a life-changing éclair and maybe some escargot (snails) if you're feeling brave. Don't worry, it's only your pristine top (and your dignity) at stake as you prise them out of their shells. Stay: MIJE Marais (or similar) (B/L)

A free day in Paris for more of what you're here for? Go on, then.

Get exploring: there's an optional trip to Versailles to sweep through the lavish palace halls like French royalty once did (before they got their heads chopped off, obviously). Or you could explore the Louvre and say hi to Mona (and 300 selfie sticks). If you're in a creepy mood, why not skulk around the skull-covered corners of the Catacombs of Paris instead? Either way, the choice is yours.

Dinner Parisian-style: feast on French favourites as we dine as a group this evening.

Later, your way: disappear into a flurry of feathers and sequins at an optional cabaret show tonight. Ooh la la! Or people-watch from a cozy candlelit bistro and make up elaborate backstories for strangers. Stay: MIJE Marais (or similar) (B/D)

Au revoir Paris. Today, you've got a wine date to keep with Bordeaux.

Train to Bordeaux: after another delicious buttery breakfast buffet catch a high-speed train straight to Bordeaux – arriving there in just a couple of hours.

A swanky wine tasting: practise your best *sophisticated sommelier* face at an included wine-tasting session this afternoon. Notes of blackcurrant? Sure! Bordeaux is basically the Little Black Dress of wines – elegant, versatile and never going out of style. Enjoy! Stay: MEININGER Hotel Bordeaux Gare Saint-Jean (or similar) (B)

It's your day, your way in Bordeaux.

Get exploring: wander around the Golden Triangle: a fancy district filled with gorgeous architecture, designer boutiques and eye-wateringly expensive food shops (check out the Place de la Bourse and its famous water mirror for next-level reflection photos). Or pop into a fromagerie and create your own sharing plate of local cheeses to eat in the Jardin Public park (then 'forget' to share any). Stay: MEININGER Hotel Bordeaux Gare Saint-Jean (or similar) (B)

Bye for now, Bordeaux – Barcelona is calling, and she's got flair to spare.

All aboard to Barcelona: settle in for a scenic ride across the border as we swap vineyards for vibrant boulevards. With around six-and-a-half hours of smooth rail time, there's plenty of time to snack, snooze or watch the world blur by before we roll into Catalonia's colourful capital.

Sagrada Famila: after check-in, dive into Gaudí's masterpiece with a guided tour of the Sagrada Família – part cathedral, part fever dream and entirely unmissable.

Flamenco fever: this evening, there's the option to soak up the passion and drama of a traditional flamenco performance – all swirling skirts, stomping heels and serious soul. It's optional, but highly recommended. Ole! Stay: MEININGER Hotel Barcelona Fira Gran Via (or similar) (B)

Buenos días, Barcelona!

Gothic charm: time travel, Barcelona style this morning with a guided walking tour of Barcelona's atmospheric Gothic Quarter – winding cobblestone streets, hidden plazas, and centuries of stories at every turn.

Bites and delights: next, it's time to tempt your taste buds at the vibrant Mercat de Santa Caterina. Your Trip Leader will be leading the tour with insider info on where you can find delicious bites like crispy croquettes, creamy cheese, salty jamón and briny olives to keep you fuelled and smiling.

Dinner plans: as the city lights twinkle on, enjoy an included laid-back dinner the Barcelona way. Stay: MEININGER Hotel Barcelona Fira Gran Via (or similar) (B/L/D)

Sunshine, rosé, and countryside charm? Must be Provence.

Morning magic: start the day wandering through the whimsical mosaics and winding paths of Parc Güell – Gaudí's colourful playground with views that never quit.

Next stop, Provence: then, it's time to say adiós to Barcelona as we trade tapas for tartes on a scenic six-hour train ride to Provence. Settle in with a window seat, a stash of jamón-flavoured crisps or a flaky croissant (no judgement), and watch as Spanish cityscapes melt into lavender fields and rolling hills. Stay: Ibis Avignon Centre Pont de l'Europe (or similar) (B)

Fresh air, flaky pastries, and lazy days ahead – welcome to the Provençal pace of life.

Provence, your way: today's all yours – and Provence knows how to show you a good time. Meander through lavender fields like you're in a perfume ad, snack your way around a sun-drenched market, or find the perfect bistro chair to sip rosé and watch the world go by. However you play it, it's peak joie de vivre.

Dinner delight: later, regroup for a delicious included dinner – good food, great company, and plenty to chat about from another très magnifique day. Stay: Ibis Avignon Centre Pont de l'Europe (or similar) (B/D)

From lavender fields to glittering seas – it's time to swap the slow life for the seaside.

From vineyards to vistas: this morning, you'll swap Avignon's rustic charm for the glittering coastline of the French Riviera. Next stop: Nice – all sun, sea, and Belle Époque beauty.

Nice and easy: after check-in, enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace. Stroll the Promenade des Anglais, grab a gelato, or simply soak up that Riviera glow. Stay: Hostel Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar) (B)

Bonjour beach life – it's time to bask in the best of the French Riviera.

Morning in Nice: wake up to another postcard-perfect morning in Nice. Coffee, croissant, Côte d'Azur views – the French Riviera dream continues.

Monaco moments: then it's off on a day trip to Monaco with your Trip Leader. Think yacht-lined harbours, luxury cars, and royal glamour. On arrival, take a walking tour through this pint-sized principality – from the glitzy casino to the royal palace, it's elegance at every turn. Stay: Hostel Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar) (B)

Farewell, French coast – it's time for pasta, piazzas, and a little Florentine magic.

Ciao for now, Côte d'Azur: it's time to swap sea views for Tuscan skies as we say farewell to the French Riviera.

On the road to Florence: settle in for a scenic seven-hour coach ride through the heart of Europe – think rolling countryside, snack stops, and plenty of time to daydream out the window. Florence awaits. Stay: YellowSquare Florence (or similar) (B)

Rise and shine – Florence is serving up Renaissance flair, iconic art, and gelato worth writing home about.

Buongiorno, Florence: wake up surrounded by terracotta rooftops, Renaissance domes and the faint smell of espresso in the air. It's your first full day in the city of art, romance and excellent carbs.

Renaissance revelations: join a local guide for a walking tour through Florence's cobbled streets and centuries of history. Expect stories of Medici drama, Michelangelo masterpieces and views that'll stop you in your tracks.

Panino perfection: mid-tour, you'll hit pause for a proper Florentine sandwich stop. Think crusty bread, salty-sweet cured meats, and bold Tuscan flavours packed into one glorious panino. This isn't just lunch – it's a cultural institution. You'll eat it standing up, as the locals do – sunshine on your face, olive oil on your chin, and zero regrets. Stay: YellowSquare Florence (or similar) (B/L)

Arrivederci, Florence – it's time to trade Tuscan charm for Roman swagger.

All aboard for Rome: say arrivederci to Florence and hop on a high-speed train bound for the Eternal City. Fast, sleek, and with just enough time to admire the Italian countryside blur past your window.

Roman rendezvous: after check-in, stretch your legs and get the lay of the land with your Trip Leader Trip Leader for a gentle introduction to Rome's winding streets, ancient ruins, and vibrant piazzas. The tour includes some tasty local bites – think crisp, Roman-style pizza al taglio, cut with scissors and served piping hot on paper, perfect for eating on the go. And of course, no Roman afternoon is complete without a scoop (or three) of gelato. You'll lick your way through flavours like pistachio, stracciatella, or fig and ricotta – sunshine on your face, gelato melting faster than you can eat it, and not a care in the world Stay: YellowSquare Rome (or similar) (B/L)

Today it's your chance to rise and shine in the Eternal City.

Roam if you want to: today's yours to explore Rome your way. Want to walk in the footsteps of emperors? The Colosseum and Roman Forum are calling – and if you want the full backstory (and zero queue stress), there's an optional guided tour to bring it all to life.

Prefer something more chilled? Sip espresso in a sun-drenched piazza and watch the world go by. – just don't expect to have it to yourself. Clamber up the Spanish Steps with gelato in hand and a dozen other tourists doing the same. Or dodge selfie sticks as you browse for that just right souvenir in the backstreets of Trastevere.

When in Rome... start with pasta: this evening, roll up your sleeves for an included pasta-making class. You'll knead, roll and shape your own pasta from scratch – then proudly (or awkwardly) plate up and compare creations with your fellow chefs. Is yours a rustic masterpiece or a total floury flop? Either way, it tastes like victory. Stay: YellowSquare Rome (or similar) (B/D)

Still got Rome on your mind? Perfect — today's another chance to fall even more in love.

Another day, another gelato: with just breakfast on the books, your Roman holiday continues. Want to dive deeper into the city's treasures?

There's an optional guided tour of the Vatican Museums – cue masterpieces, marble halls and that ceiling. Or join a food tour and eat your way through hidden trattorias, buzzing markets and pizza-by-the-slice perfection.

Do-nothing day? Also valid: prefer to keep things low-key? Stroll through Villa Borghese, people-watch in Piazza Navona, or find a shady spot with a book and an espresso. Rome rewards the wanderers – and today, the city's all yours. Stay: YellowSquare Rome (or similar) (B)

Farewell to the Eternal City, and buongiorno to Venice – where the streets are made of water and getting lost is half the fun.

All aboard: this morning, hop on a high-speed train bound for Venice – a city where the streets are made of water and getting lost is half the fun. Sit back and watch the countryside blur into canals.

First look: after check-in, your Trip Leader will help you get your bearings with a wander – think bridges, bell towers, and plenty of photo ops.

Float your boat: then it's time for the bucket list moment: an included gondola ride. Cue striped shirts, slow canals, and a fresh appreciation for Venetian charm.

Mangiamo: this evening, gather the group for an included dinner. Whether it's Aperol or an iced tea, something spritzy is definitely encouraged. Stay: MEININGER Venezia Mestre (or similar) (B/D)

Wake up and smell the espresso – Venice is ready to charm your socks off, one canal at a time.

Drift day: no plans today – just endless opportunities to explore Venice at your own pace. Sleep in, grab a cappuccino and see where the bridges take you.

Get lost (in a good way): wander the maze-like alleyways, browse tiny art galleries, or hop on a vaporetto and cruise down the Grand Canal. In the mood for a culture hit? Doge's Palace and St Mark's Basilica await.

Snack break: don't miss cicchetti – Venice's answer to tapas – best washed down with a spritz or two at a local bacaro. Just be sure to save room for something savoury – cicchetti and creamy baccalà await.. Stay: MEININGER Venezia Mestre (or similar) (B)

Say goodbye to Venice's watery ways and hello to the hearty charm of Bavaria – Munich, here we come.

All aboard (again): today you're swapping canals for castles as we catch a direct train from Venice to Munich. But this isn't just any train ride – you're rolling through the legendary Brenner Pass.

Window seat wins: think dramatic Alpine peaks, sweeping valleys, hillside villages and blink-and-you'll-miss-them lakes. Pack your snacks and your camera — this route's a real showstopper. Sit back and watch the scenery roll by — from shimmering lakes to alpine peaks, this route offers some of Europe's most breathtaking views. Fast, smooth, and seriously scenic, it's the perfect way to travel between Venice and Munich. Next stop: Bavaria. Stay: Wombats Munich Werksviertel (or similar) (B)

Munich, it's been wunderbar – but the Netherlands is calling. Next stop: Amsterdam, where canals and culture await.

Morning, Munich: lace up your walking shoes – you're off to explore the Bavarian capital with your Trip Leader. From grand squares to beer halls, this place wears its history with pride.

Snack like a local: you'll swing by Viktualienmarkt for a tasting session. Think: salty-soft pretzels, smoky wurst, and a whole lot of deliciousness. Be sure to come hungry.

All aboard (again): this evening, you're trading hotel beds for bunk berths as we board the overnight train to Amsterdam. Settle in for a night on the rails in your cosy 6-berth couchette – shared with fellow Topdeckers only. Some trains have dining cars, but snacks are always within reach (or grab your favourites before we roll out). See you in the morning, Netherlands. Stay: Night Jet sleeper train (B/L)

It's time to meet Amsterdam the local way: on two wheels.

Rise and ride: welcome to Amsterdam! After rolling into the city, you'll drop our bags and grab a bite to fuel up – because there's exploring to be done.

Pedals and poffertjes: hop on two wheels for a bike tour with a local guide – the best way to see this canal-laced city. You'll finish up at Albert Cuyp Market, where your Trip Leader will track down some Dutch delicacies for the group. Expect a smorgasbord of local bites – some salty herring if you're brave, deep-fried kibbeling, gouda galore, and sweet little poffertjes (traditional Dutch pancakes).

Later, your way: the rest of the day is yours. Take a canal cruise, visit the Van Gogh Museum, or simply wander the Jordaan district with a stroopwafel in hand. Speaking of which – fancy making your own? There's an optional stroopwafel-making class this afternoon that will leave you feeling sticky-fingered. Stay: Hans Brinker (or similar) (B/L)

There's one more day to go Dutch.

Your day, your way: today's all about you. Sleep in, explore hidden corners of Amsterdam, or opt for an e-bike tour through the peaceful Dutch countryside – fresh air guaranteed.

Canal cruise send-off: tonight, you'll come together for a farewell dinner, followed by a magical canal cruise under the city lights. The perfect way to say “tot ziens” to Amsterdam and your fellow Topdeckers. Stay: Hans Brinker (or similar) (B/D)

From Dutch treats to British streets, you're crossing borders one last time as the final leg of our journey takes us to London.

All aboard for home: today we glide from Amsterdam Centraal to London St Pancras on the high-speed Eurostar, passing charming Dutch countryside, quaint villages, and the iconic Channel Tunnel along the way.

Journey's end: arrival in London marks the end of our adventure. Time to unpack, unwind, and start dreaming about the next trip. (B)