Compare Spectacular Scotland by SmarTours vs European Escapade 2025 (Standard, Paris) by Contiki

Day 1: Depart USA.

Your unforgettable journey to Scotland begins as you depart this evening on your overnight flight to Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic capital.

Day 2: Arrive Edinburgh.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City Centre

Arrive in Edinburgh, one of the world’s finest capital cities and one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, where you’ll be greeted at the airport by your tour director. Described as “a dream in masonry and living rock”, Edinburgh is draped across a series of rocky hills overlooking the sea. A highly cultured and artistic city, Edinburgh is also described as the “Athens of the North”, a name inspired by the leaders of the Scottish Enlightenment. After departing the airport, visit the majestic, royal Linlithgow Palace. Despite now being roofless and largely ruined, Linlithgow Palace still inspires a sense of awe as you enter its gates. You’ll then continue to city center and enjoy a guided tour of this magnificent city, exploring the Royal Mile, the Princess Street Gardens, and Calton Hill, where you’ll savor a breathtaking view of the city. Transfer to your upscale, centrally-located hotel and enjoy an included welcome dinner later this evening. Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City Centre

Day 3: Edinburgh.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City Centre

After a sumptuous breakfast, embark on an exploration of two of Edinburgh’s main attractions. You’ll start with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, a word-famous icon with a dominant position overlooking the capital city. Not only will you appreciate its obvious grandeur and marvelous views, but you’ll gain an appreciation for its rich history, as Edinburgh Castle has witnessed many of the defining moments of Scottish history. Continue to another highlight of Edinburgh, the National Museum of Scotland. Blending natural history, art, design, science, and technology, there is truly something for everyone, and you’ll gain a greater appreciation for Scottish history. The rest of the day is at leisure in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Edinburgh.

Day 4: Edinburgh/Optional Castle Excursion to St. Andrews & Glamis.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City Centre

Enjoy a full day at leisure in Edinburgh, or join an optional excursion to two of Scotland’s most historic castles: St. Andrews Castle and Glamis Castle. Begin with a visit to St. Andrews Castle, where you’ll visit the ruins of the castle of the Archbishops of St. Andrews, dating back to the 13th century. A notable highlight includes the tunnels dug in the 16th century by Protestant reformers after they murdered Cardinal Beaton and took over the castle. A fascinating exhibition in the visitor center also helps bring this historic landmark to life. After enjoying some time at leisure in St. Andrews, you’ll continue to Glamis Castle, with its stunning architecture, beautiful surrounding grounds and gardens, and rich history filled with legends and myths. Home of the Lyon family since the 14th century, Glamis was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Glamis Castle also has a bit of a dark, haunted past as the place of King Malcom II’s murder in the 11th century and of Lady Janet Douglas’s burning at the stake for being a witch in 1540 by James V. Alternatively, if you’d prefer a round of golf in the game’s birthplace (Scotland), you may ask your tour director for tips as to how to secure a tee time. The evening is at leisure, or perhaps you’ll join an optional festive dinner with traditional Scottish entertainment at the Spirit of Scotland Show.

Day 5: Edinburgh/Aberfeldy.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Aberfeldy: Moness Resort

After breakfast, before heading north towards the Scottish Highlands, you’ll pay a visit to Glenkinchie Distillery, the home of “The Edinburgh Malt.” In the late 18th century, the surrounding area had an estimated four hundred illicit distilleries, and once the law was changed to permit licensed distilleries, many farmers jumped at the opportunity to get a license. Today, Glenkinchie is a model distillery, where you’ll see the production area, learn how the Scottish make their ‘water of life’, and then make your way to the bar for a tasting of the Glenkinchie Single Malt Whisky. En route to the Highlands, you’ll visit the Falkirk Wheel, a remarkable feat of modern engineering used to reconnect the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. You have to see it to fully comprehend it, but suffice it to say, it is the only rotating boat lift in the world and recognized as an inspirational 21st-century sculpture. Your next stop will be the magnificent Stirling Castle, which towers over several of Scotland’s most historic battlefields, including Stirling Bridge, the location of William Wallace’s victory over the English in 1297, and Bannockburn where Robert the Bruce also defeated the English in 1314. Stirling Castle is a symbol of Scottish independence and boasts impressive architecture that you’ll surely enjoy. Continue to Aberfeldy, a charming town in the Scottish Highlands set along the banks of the River Tay. This evening, enjoy an included dinner at your hotel. Moness Resort Hotel

Day 6: The Heart of the Highlands – Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Aberfeldy: Moness Resort

Today, you’ll venture north into the heart of the Scottish Highlands, an awe-inspiring, beautiful region featuring famous battlefields and monuments. Your first stop on this day-long journey is, naturally, the famous Loch Ness, which has received global recognition for its celebrity resident: the sea monster Nessie. Keep an eye out for the elusive Nessie on your boat ride across the Loch Ness to visit Urquhart Castle, one of the largest castles in Scotland with a colorful history. Built in the early 13th century, this magnificent castle changed hands a few times before being abandoned in the late 17th century. The majority of the existing buildings were built in the 14th century and remain a sight to see. Continue to the Highland House of Fraser, located on the banks of the River Ness, where you’ll immerse yourself in the world of highland dress, often characterized by the tartan. Experience an exhibition that documents the fascinating history of the tartan with a bit of Scottish humor, and if you’ve seen the movie Braveheart, you may recognize a display of the highland dress worn by some of the actors. You’ll also get the opportunity to see the master kiltmakers at work. Later, return to Aberfeldy for an included dinner.

Day 7: Aberfeldy/Isle of Mull.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Isle of Mull: Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa

After breakfast, depart the Highlands for the spectacular Isle of Mull, known for its rich cultural heritage and its beautiful beaches and bays. En route, visit Stanley Mills, an impressive 18-century water mill and one of the best-preserved relics of the Industrial Revolution. Explore the interactive visitor center that will give you great insight into those who worked at Stanley Mills and the the products they made that were sold around the world. Continue to Oban, where you’ll take a late afternoon ferry to the Isle of Mull. This evening, enjoy an included dinner at your hotel. Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa

Day 8: Isle of Mull/Isle of Iona.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Isle of Mull: Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa

This morning, take a short ferry to the enchanting, spiritual Isle of Iona. You’ll follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims who have been coming to Iona since St. Columba’s arrival in the 6th century. Proceed to the magnificent, restored Iona Abbey that was founded by St. Columba in 563 AD and houses an impressive collection of over 180 medieval and religious carved stones. Nearby, the remains of the 13th-century Abbey Nunnery is a great place to relish the utter serenity of this special island. After returning to the Isle of Mull, enjoy a visit to Duart Castle, the 13th-century ancestral home of the Clan Maclean guarding the sea cliffs of the Isle of Mull.  Perched atop a cliff on a peninsula with a unique view of several neighboring castles, Duart Castle was surrendered by the Macleans in the late 17th century before being repurchased by Sir Fitzroy Maclean in the early 20th century, who shouldered the important task of restoring the castle. Return to your hotel for an included dinner this evening.

Day 9: Isle of Mull/Glasgow.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Glasgow: Grand Central Hotel

After breakfast, bid farewell to the Isle of Mull and board a ferry to mainland Scotland. En route to Glasgow, the cultural capital of Scotland and its largest city, visit Inverawe Smokehouse, Scotland’s smoked food specialists. Here, after seeing how their specialties such as smoked salmon are prepared, you’ll have the opportunity to sample their product and judge for yourself their claim that they produce “the best smoked salmon you will ever taste.” En route to Glasgow, experience the fascinating Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, featuring 38 Birds of Prey. Relish the opportunity to see some rare and endangered species, as well as birds of all sizes, from the Little Owl to the female Golden Eagle. Watch the birds training or simply flying in the aviary compound and learn about the rescue facilities and disabled wild birds. Arrive in Glasgow, which blends art, architecture, nightlife, and shopping, where you’ll check in to your centrally located hotel. The evening is at leisure. Grand Central Hotel

Day 10: Glasgow.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Glasgow: Grand Central Hotel

Formerly an industrial city, Glasgow has undergone an economic and cultural renaissance since the mid 1980s, and today’s panoramic city tour will give you an excellent glimpse into this transformation. You’ll visit the Merchant City, the revamped riverbank (previously a dilapidated industrial area), the bohemian West End, and more. Next up is one of Scotland’s most popular attractions: the Kelvingrove Art Gallery. The architecture alone is a sight to see, and inside the beautiful building, the 22 themed, state-of-the-art galleries display a remarkable 8,000 objects. The art, the natural history, the arms and armour will all provide plenty to marvel at. The balance of the day is at leisure in Glasgow before your festive farewell dinner (with a glass of wine) at the iconic Corinthian Club.

Day 11: Depart Scotland/Arrive USA.

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer to the airport in Glasgow for your return flight to New York. Your memorable journey comes to an end as you arrive back in the USA later today. 

Day 1: London to Paris

Welcome to the first day of the best trip 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 our 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.  We'll kick off our trip as we arrive in the glittering city of love, Paris. It's straight down to business with a tour of the city lit up by those famous lights. Then, we'll bond with our Contiki fam with a delicious included dinner. The French are proud of their culinary culture for a reason.

Ibis Budget Paris Nord 18e (or similar)

Dinner

Day 2: Paris

Today's the day to stroll the beautiful streets of Paris, with plenty of time to lust over designer haute couture or French vintage stores, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral, order coffee and crêpes, or get artsy at the many museums of the Louvre. Tonight, foodies will have the chance to eat a Parisian feast in Montmartre, surrounded by cobbled lanes, village-esque cafes, street artists and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Otherwise, this is your night to sign up for an iconic Parisian cabaret show. Either option will give you the perfect way to make it one to remember!

Ibis Budget Paris Nord 18e (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 3: Paris to Swiss Alps

Out with the city life, in with the fresh mountain air. On leaving Paris we’ll coast through the pretty wine producing region of Burgundy before crossing the border to Switzerland. With magical views unfolding outside our windows we'll find ourselves in Switzerland, ready for two nights at our accommodation in the heart of this traditional resort town. This place comes to life as the sun sets, so tonight we'll have a chance to load up on Swiss chocolate, and walk around town admiring the stunning landscape.

Schützenbach (or similar)

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: Swiss Alps

Open the window of your room and drink in the incredible view. Today you’re free to explore this classic European adventure town. Feeling extra adventurous? Today is your chance to ascend Jungfrau mountain, aka ‘the Top of the World’.

Schützenbach (or similar)

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: Swiss Alps to Beaujolais Wine Region

It’s been sweet, but we’re swapping Switzerland back for France again this morning. 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... Please note: On occasion, certain departures will be moved from Contiki’s Château de Cruix to the French gastronomic capital of Lyon (a title which ain’t given lightly, believe us!) We’ll get the party started with an included meal at a local restaurant, accompanied by local wine.

Château de Cruix (or similar)

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: Beaujolais Wine Region to Barcelona

Bye-bye Beaujolais! And hello Barcelona. The Pyrénées mountains will keep our eyes satisfied today as we roll across the border for Spain's most lively city. Each day as sweet as the last. Well would you look at that for timing, we've pulled into Barcelona just on sangria o'clock. Fate, you've done it again! Tapas and a night exploring the city should have us in the Spanish mood before we know it.

Generator Barcelona (or similar)

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Barcelona

Cobbled lanes of the Gothic Quarter, Montjuic hilltop vistas, & wild Spanish architecture will season our day to perfection. There's plenty of free time to roam free or take a dip in the Mediterranean sea, just don't tire yourself out - chances are you'll want to partake in the evening of Flamenco fun.

Generator Barcelona (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 8: Barcelona to French Riviera

As smitten as we are by Barcelona, we have more of Europe to conquer. Much, much more... After a dreamy drive across the border into France through landscapes of lavender, sunflowers and wild herbs, we'll arrive at our lunch break town of Arles. Here we will get a peek at an ancient Roman Arena and at a typical provincial French town. 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? Sapphire waters & endless glamour as we roll through this glitzy coastline.

Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 9: French Riviera

This morning we'll take in the crystal blue waters of the Riviera, cobble stone streets and charming markets! Later we take a scenic drive along the Côte d'Azur shows us everything we want to know about the French Riviera, as we make our way to the heart of it all, Monaco. It wouldn't be a true visit to Monaco without seeing the Royal Palace and the Monte Carlo casino, and that's exactly what we'll look for first. Then, what better place to spend your last night in France? You have a free evening to don your glad rags, spritz on some of your new perfume & rub shoulders with the high rollers, before it's back along the coast tonight. Monaco, you've been a real winner today. Winding our way back along the Côte d'Azur, we'll say goodbye to the flash pack and set our sights for bed.

Villa Saint Exupery Beach (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 10: French Riviera to Florence via Pisa

After almost a week in France you'll be full to the brim with all things French and ready for new ground. Italy, perhaps? 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. Dancing and dinner in Tuscany. Is that the Duomo Cathedral we see, looming large over the pretty city? Now you know you’re in Florence. Tonight we’ll start our Italian adventure with an optional Tuscan feast (yum), then afterwards we’re off for a night out with dancing aplenty.

The Yellow (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 11: Florence to Rome

Today will be split nicely between two of Italy's best cities, with Rome on our afternoon to-do list. First up is frolicking around Florence this morning, with our local guide taking us behind the scenes & revealing the city's cultural beginnings followed by a leather craft demonstration, part of Florence's artisan history. After a journey of romantic views past cypress trees and olive groves, we'll arrive in the Eternal City of Rome. Wasting no time uncovering the city, we'll take a tour of some of the biggest Italian icons, with famous sights and photo stops include the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on those other timeless classics – pizza, pasta and Italian gelato.

The Yellow (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 12: Rome

You could explore one of the world's greatest icons this morning, and walk in the footsteps of gladiators, it's hard to believe these sights still exist, and when in Rome of course! If an unveiling of the Colosseum isn't your jam, make the day your own and do all the quintessential Italian things, like sipping endless espressos while the world rides by on Vespa. We recommend heading to the Trastevere for the ultimate people watching, over a steaming bowl of carbonara in its true home, flanked by a caprese salad of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella and basil.

The Yellow (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 13: Rome to Venice

We may be hitting the road again, but we're not done with Italy just yet. We have one more city to lust over... Kudos to the cats of decades gone who constructed this lagoon fairytale. Boats, bridges, gondolas; your heart is going to pound. Start off this evening with an optional walking tour that not only shows you the sights but also finishes with traditional Venetian cicchetti, washed down with an aperitivo.

Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 14: Venice

Wake-up sleeping beauties! Venice is yours for the entirety of this glorious Italian day. We'll be jumping aboard our own private boat and hitting the canals en route to the historical heart of the city. You have the chance to become truly Venetian with a gondola ride up for grabs, or you can always choose to get lost on your own and see where the maze takes you.

Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 15: Venice to Austrian Tyrol

Arrivederci, Venice! You've been splendid. We're back on the road through the Dolomite Mountains en route to find lands fit for the Sound of Music. Onwards, upwards & seeing the world with more grateful eyes than ever before, we'll settle back on the road and soon arrive in the breathtaking Austrian Tyrol. We'll be welcomed with open arms to Contiki's very own Austrian Gasthof (guesthouse), but before we settle in, we'll get outside and explore the dreamy setting we'll call home for the next two nights. Tonight is a welcome evening & tomorrow we'll get into the swing of things with some of the adventure activities this town is famous for.

Contiki Haus Schoneck (or similar)

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 16: Austrian Tyrol

Wake up, peel open your curtains, and take in the magnificence of your view. If you're feeling lively you can jump onto a bike tour through green mountains and waterfalls. If you're feeling really lively you can go tandem paragliding. Not so lively? Stroll around and take in the incredible setting; drink endless hot chocolate, go up a mountain in a gondola or relax at our Gasthof.

Contiki Haus Schoneck (or similar)

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 17: Austrian Tyrol to Munich

Farewell life in the blissful Austrian Alps, but don't give up on your Sound of Music image just yet. We'll leave Austria this morning in search of lands that prove the setting still exists. Farewell life in the blissful Austrian Alps, but don't give up on your Sound of Music image just yet. We'll leave Austria this morning in search of lands that prove the setting still exists. Bavarian culture, a famous Glockenspiel and charm aplenty. Munich doesn't just turn it on during Oktoberfest! Explore peaceful gardens and legendary beer halls or join in the bike tour and explore the side streets you wouldn't usually see, starting out with a city tour and a visit to a beer hall.

Bento Inn Munich Messe (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 18: Munich to Prague

We'll say farewell to Munich and continue our journey to Prague. The capital of the Czech Republic is fast becoming one of the hottest spots on the European map, and today you find out why... We start with a walking tour of the ancient streets, starting in the Castle District and passing by St Vitus Cathedral. Later this evening we'll head into the Old Town to see the famous Charles Bridge and astronomical clock. Tonight join us for an authentic Czech evening complete with dumplings, goulash, and plenty of local beer.

Plus Prague (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 19: Prague

Wake up and explore a UNESCO World Heritage city that's begging you to come out to play. Roam pretty lanes and romantic courtyards, admiring the colourful baroque buildings and Gothic churches. You can take a walking food tour if you get a little hungry!

Plus Prague (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 20: Prague to Berlin

Pack your bags and say your sincere thanks to the Czech Republic for being such a lovely host. As promised, we're heading back to Germany for a bout in Berlin.  A drive from Prague to Berlin would not be complete without stopping in Dresden. Destroyed by World War II, the rebuilt town is now a symbol of resilience, soaked in the rebirthed beauty of an Opera house, the domed Frauenkirche, & the Royal Residence. On the world map of party vibes, Berlin has a gold star. We've got two nights to explore every inch of this iconic city and we'll kick it off with a tour to learn about its troubled but fascinating past. Once we've gotten acquainted with the key sites, we’ll enjoy an included dinner together, ready for more exploring tomorrow.

Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 21: Berlin

Leap out of bed knowing Berlin is ready and waiting to be explored. You can opt to discover Berlin's restless past on a historical walking tour including Checkpoint Charlie and the site of Hitler's bunker. Or choose an alternative walking tour to see the street art and counter-culture that tourists often miss. The nightlife is also yours for the taking, so this is your chance to scope out some of the underground raves or cocktail-lounge-in-the-basement scenarios that make this city a world famous party spot.

Generator Alexanderplatz (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 22: Berlin to Amsterdam

We’ll journey out of Germany today and travel through the gloriously flat Netherlands with Amsterdam in our sights. You can start your exploration of this city with an included dinner followed by an optional trip up the A��DAM tower where (if you’re brave enough to keep your eyes open) you’ll be treated to unparalleled views aboard ‘Over the Edge’, Europe’s highest swing. Later, the fun doesn't stop, knowing there’s plenty of nightlife to keep you going until the early hours.

Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 23: Amsterdam

Opportunities in Amsterdam are infinite & the day is yours to explore one of the world’s most unique cities. The final night on trip together culminates with a chance to join a farewell dinner at the beautiful fishing village of Volendam & an opportunity to cruise the famous canals and revel under the city lights.

Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)

Breakfast

Day 24: End Amsterdam

Get your tissues ready, it's time to say goodbye to your new Contiki family. We'll escort you to Schiphol Airport by about 10am. For those not leaving us until London, we'll travel south to Calais. This afternoon we cross from France to England... ...and then back to London-town, where you'll be left to start dreaming up your next big adventure.

Breakfast