London to Rome Quest | Start Paris | Winter | 2025/2026
London to Rome Quest | Start Paris | Winter | 2025/2026
London to Rome Quest | Start Paris | Winter | 2025/2026
16 Days Starting in Paris and ending in Rome
Visiting: London, Dover, Calais, Paris, Bordeaux, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, San Sebastián, Zaragoza, Barcelona, French Riviera, Monaco City, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence, Sorrento, Amalfi, Pompeii, Rome
Tour operator:
Tour code:
WQRME20
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
France, Spain and Italy - a trio like no other. 16 days in perhaps the most alluring region of Europe will have you feeling right at home. Wine regions, boats to small islands and 9 World Heritage Sites will leave you hands down smitten.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: London To Paris
Location: London, Dover, Calais, Paris
Accommodation Name: Jo&Joe Gentilly (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to the first day of the best holiday of your life - we're calling it early! After a few pleasantries in London we'll get the show on the road with Paris in our sights. A few hours in and your jaws are on the floor already. These chalk cliffs that edge the English coastline are known as the White Cliffs of Dover, the first of many natural beauties we'll see on this trip. After we ferry across the English Channel for France we'll arrive in Calais, where we will take in the history of World War I battlefields in the Valley of the Somme. Kicking off night one, we arrive in none other than the lust-worthy Paris! It's straight down to business with a tour of the city lit up by the lights of night.
Day 2: Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: Jo&Joe Gentilly (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drool over haute couture you can't afford, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral whilst juggling coffee and crêpes, & get artsy at the Louvre. Just don't wear yourself out, you will probably want to get involved with dinner and a cabaret show. Smitten and it's only day two!
Day 3: Paris To Bordeaux
Location: Paris, Bordeaux
Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Bordeaux Centre Meriadeck (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wipe away your tears sad travellers! Paris is not going anywhere, you can always come back and visit her again. You, on the other hand, are going somewhere, and it's somewhere pretty magnificent... Wise folk tell us that wine has been produced in Bordeaux since the 1st Century - that's a long time, which means they know what they're doing. And it's not just the vin that has dragged us here, it's a pretty place to boot featuring its famous Miroir d'eau (water mirror).
Day 4: Bordeaux To San Sebastian
Location: Bordeaux, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, San Sebastián
Accommodation Name: Koisi Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breathe in your last breath of Bordeaux before we hit the road in search of the Spanish border. In just a few short hours we'll be exploring San Sebastian. Our stop will have you people watching in this cute little town on the French and Spanish border. With two nights in Spain's coastal town of San Sebastian, it will be hard to wipe the smiles off our faces. Take a walk to the aquarium where you can get a closer look at Isla de Santa Clara. The night is yours.
Day 5: San Sebastian
Location: San Sebastián
Accommodation Name: Koisi Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We'll be dropping lots of delicious sounding words today as we explore Parte Vieja, Playa de la Concha and Centro Romántico. Say it again: Romántico! Follow the cobblestone roads & soak up San Sebastian's coastline.
Day 6: San Sebastian To Barcelona
Location: San Sebastián, Zaragoza, Barcelona
Accommodation Name: Generator Barcelona (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Having settled into life with afternoon siestas, today will only be a departure from San Sebastian, don't worry leaving Spain is not on the agenda. Sigh with relief. This town comes complete with a baroque Basilica, a perfect combination of Islamic and Gothic architecture and truly a sight to behold. Hola Barcelona...The first dose of Mediterranean Sea! That's if you can drag yourself away from the intoxicating city & get to the beach. Unique gothic architecture, round the clock parties & plenty of street life will leave you spellbound by Barcelona.
Day 7: Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation Name: Generator Barcelona (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
They say this sexy city sizzles and we couldn't agree more. For a taste of what you can do, here's just a start of the never-ending list. Channel Gaudi at Sagrada Familia, his greatest masterpiece, started in 1882. This labour of love is still not compete, but is one for the Instagram upload for sure. Parc Guell could be next on the list, followed by the beach, and of course taking to the backstreets for some endless tapas and paella. Washed down with sangria of course.
Day 8: Barcelona To French Riviera
Location: Barcelona, French Riviera
Accommodation Name: Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
As smitten as we are by Barcelona, we have more of Europe to conquer. Much, much more... You're not a real celebrity until you've frolicked on the French Riviera, and who are we to keep you off the A-List? Discover sapphire waters & endless glamour as we roll along this glitzy coastline.
Day 9: French Riviera
Location: French Riviera, Monaco City, French Riviera
Accommodation Name: Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Missing an opportunity to see this part of the world up close and personal would be criminal. Speaking of things you shouldn't miss, this region is famous for lavender honey, aioli & rosé wine; all 3 in one meal should be your mission. Please tell us you didn't throw away all of your pennies on perfume today? Because you're going to want a few spare coins tonight so you can play fancy. We're visiting the Monte Carlo Casino & the Royal Palace in Monaco.  After a night on the blackjack table it's back to the coast and to bed, the next part of the adventure starts tomorrow.
Day 10: French Riviera To Pisa Via Cinque Terre
Location: French Riviera, Cinque Terre, Pisa
Accommodation Name: B&B Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Having exhausted all our hilarious Nice puns, we'll head south in search of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Cinque Terre. Welcome to Cinque Terre, the sexiest collection of fishing villages on the planet. Armed with your rail pass, spend the day absorbing the dramatic beauty of this place, but we suggest you get out for a hike, a food crawl, some vino or all of the above. Then we'll head to our home for the night - Pisa.Oh, what a long but beautiful day it has been! We'll check into our hotel and get some well deserved rest.
Day 11: Pisa To Florence
Location: Pisa, Florence
Accommodation Name: Hotel Auto Park (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
As if we were going to leave Pisa without a trip to the Leaning Tower. Depriving you of the chance to perfect the holding-up-the-tower shot would be down right criminal. Explore the city's markets complete with gelato in hand; marvel at artworks from the likes of legends like Michelangelo; and be impressed by the skilful art of leather at an included demonstration. These are the sorts of activities likely to fill your Florence agenda.
Day 12: Florence To Sorrento
Location: Florence, Sorrento
Accommodation Name: Sisters Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After farewell-ing Florence this morning we will journey along the boot of Italy until we reach the globally adored town of Sorrento for some blissed out coast hangs. "So so so so in love with Sorrento" are about the only words you'll muster up tonight as you sit seaside watching the sunset in this town of beauty.
Day 13: Sorrento
Location: Sorrento, Amalfi, Sorrento
Accommodation Name: Sisters Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It simply wouldn't be a trip to Sorrento without a side note to... We'll take a scenic drive along the Amalfi coast today, stopping off in Amalfi town to admire the castles and coastal views. Next up, you'll have the unique opportunity to visit a Lemon Farm and learn all about how your fav limoncello is made. Back in Sorrento, we'll stroll along the plunging cliffs, explore the impossibly pretty historical centre and taste some local gnocchi.
Day 14: Sorrento To Rome
Location: Sorrento, Pompeii, Rome
Accommodation Name: The Yellow (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Another glorious Italian day awaits us. Iconic sites and ancient history will keep our jaws at floor level until our heads hit our pillows. After less than an hour gazing lovingly out of our windows at the Amalfi Coast, it will be time for a stop. Here in the ancient city of Pompeii you will have the chance to partake in a guided walking tour taking in Roman city remains. Today's roadtrip beauty is never-ending as we take in the volcanic beauty of Mt. Vesuvius en route to Rome. On arrival in the open time capsule that is Italy's capital, your Trip Manager will get you straight into the sightseeing. The Roman Forum and Colosseum can both be ticked off your list should you be in the mood for a little history.
Day 15: Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: The Yellow (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rome wasn't built in a day - so get up and get going early to make the most of this ancient city an hit the streets for your own discoveries. Snap pink azaleas by the Colosseum, throw coins in fountains and sip espresso in a pretty street watching Italian life float by.
Day 16: End Rome
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
The best 2 weeks of your life has come to an end - you have our complete sympathy. If anyone understands the pain of ended travels, it's us (and your new Contiki collective). Hug it out after breakfast & make plans to reunite outside of Rome.
What's Included
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Meals
4 dinners and 15 breakfasts are included.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hostels and hotels such as Jo&Joe Gentilly, Ibis Budget Bordeaux Centre Meriadeck, Koisi Hostel, Generator Barcelona, Villa Saint Exupery Beach, B&B Hotel, Sisters Hostel, and The Yellow.
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Transportation
Transportation includes ferry across the English Channel and rail pass for Cinque Terre.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours are included in various locations such as Paris, Bordeaux, San Sebastian, Barcelona, French Riviera, Cinque Terre, Florence, Sorrento, Pompeii, and Rome.
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Sightseeing
Sightseeing includes landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Champs-Élysées, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Palais de la Bourse, Sagrada Familia, Monte Carlo Casino, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Amalfi Coast, and Roman Forum.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as dinner and cabaret show in Paris are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Entry Fees
Entry fees to certain attractions and landmarks are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel by ferry across the English Channel, and enjoy scenic road trips through France, Spain, and Italy. Rail passes are provided for exploring Cinque Terre, and various local transport options are used to navigate cities and coastal towns.
Accommodation
Stay in a variety of accommodations including Jo&Joe Gentilly in Paris, Ibis Budget Bordeaux Centre Meriadeck in Bordeaux, Koisi Hostel in San Sebastian, Generator Barcelona in Barcelona, Villa Saint Exupery Beach in the French Riviera, B&B Hotel in Cinque Terre, a conveniently located hostel in Florence, Sisters Hostel in Sorrento, and The Yellow in Rome.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 15 Breakfast (B)
Included Experience
- Dover: See the iconic chalk-white coastline. So special that it’s had songs dedicated to it.
- Paris: Take a dreamy jaunt around the city of romance. Fall in love with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Champs-Élysées and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- Bordeaux: Stroll around this chic metropolis to see the Palais de la Bourse and downtown Bordeaux. Then make time for a nice glass of red by the river.
- Barcelona: We’ll check out the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s world-renowned masterpiece. Work began on the church in the 1880s and while it was technically never finished, it’s still a wonder to behold.
- Barcelona: Combat boots at the ready, folks! Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas are so cool, you won’t know what to photograph first!
- French Riviera: Glide through the winding coastal roads of the French Riviera with your Contiki crew.
- Monaco City: Walk in the footsteps of Grace Kelly at the Royal Palace and see the Monte Carlo Casino (where the car park looks like a Fast & Furious set).
- Amalfi Coast: Definitely one for the bucket list. Your chance to view one of Europe’s active volcanoes from a distance.
- Rome: Stroll around the Italian capital, ticking off some sights on your bucket list!
- Cinque Terre National Park: We’ll take care of your rail pass, so you can just zip around the iconic clifftop villages and focus on the Insta stories.
- Pisa: Your ultimate chance to ‘hold the tower up’ as you pose for that classic Insta snap.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities can I expect in Paris?
In Paris, you can admire the Notre Dame Cathedral, get artsy at the Louvre, and possibly get involved with dinner and a cabaret show.
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What will we do in Bordeaux?
In Bordeaux, you can explore the city, see the famous Miroir d'eau (water mirror), and enjoy some local wine.
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What are the highlights of San Sebastian?
In San Sebastian, you can explore Parte Vieja, Playa de la Concha, and Centro Romántico. You can also visit the aquarium and get a closer look at Isla de Santa Clara.
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What can I do in Barcelona?
In Barcelona, you can visit the Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell, and enjoy the beach. You can also explore the backstreets for tapas and paella, washed down with sangria.
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What should I not miss in the French Riviera?
In the French Riviera, you should try lavender honey, aioli, and rosé wine. You can also visit the Monte Carlo Casino and the Royal Palace in Monaco.
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What activities are planned for Cinque Terre?
In Cinque Terre, you can use your rail pass to explore the dramatic beauty of the place, go for a hike, enjoy a food crawl, and taste some local wine.
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What can I expect in Florence?
In Florence, you can visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa, explore the city's markets, marvel at artworks from legends like Michelangelo, and attend a leather demonstration.
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What will we do in Sorrento?
In Sorrento, you can enjoy the coastal views, visit a Lemon Farm to learn about limoncello, and taste some local gnocchi. You will also take a scenic drive along the Amalfi coast and stop in Amalfi town.
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What are the main attractions in Rome?
In Rome, you can visit the Roman Forum and Colosseum, snap photos of pink azaleas by the Colosseum, throw coins in fountains, and sip espresso while watching Italian life.
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What happens on the last day of the tour?
On the last day of the tour, you will have breakfast and then say goodbye to your travel companions, making plans to reunite outside of Rome.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions