Epic Europe: Central and Italy
Traverse Europe’s best spots and indulge in some of the most delicious food in the world
See seven countries and hit all the highlights of Europe on this 24-day journey through Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Italy and Slovenia. Discover nightlife you can only get in Berlin, walk the ‘Royal Route’ in Krakow, then soak up the terracotta views of Prague and Cesky Krumlov. See the fairytale-like Lake Bled, and then it’s onto Italy to eat your weight in delicious carbs. Explore the postcard-perfect canals of Venice, beach hop around sparkling coasts, sample Tuscan wine, and soak in heaps of art, history and culture. Take a bucket list trip that explores iconic ruin bars, historic landmarks, hilltop castles, cobblestone streets, romantic canals, world wonders and epic sunset spots and do it all with likeminded individuals and a local leader who knows all the secrets.
- Start
- Berlin, Germany
- End
- Rome, Italy
- Meals
- 8 breakfasts
- Transport
- Train, Metro, Private vehicle, Public bus, Taxi
- Accommodation
- Hotel (11 nights), Guest house (3 nights), Hostel (multi-share) (7 nights), Guesthouse (multi-share) (2 nights)
- Days
- 24
- Group size
- Min 1 - Max 16
- Ages
- Min 18- Max 35
- ThemeEvery trip caters to specific interests and activities, such as wildlife or family.
- 18 to 35s
- StyleBasix: Simple accommodation, local transport and lots of free time
Orginal: Tourist-class hotels, some meals included and a great mix of included activities and free time
Comfort: Comfortable accommodation, with a relaxed pace of travel and many included meals and activities
Premium: 4+ star accommodation, exclusive premium inclusions, our most experienced leaders - Basix
- Physical ratingIndicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Why you'll love this trip
Start your trip with a bang in Berlin, where history and modern culture dance. If it’s nightlife you’re after, Germany’s capital is home to thriving bars, underground clubs and an alternative scene not to be missed.
Discover the magical Cesky Krumlov – you'd be forgiven for thinking you'd stepped straight into a fairytale, as this place is filled with medieval buildings, verdant countryside and the flowing Vltava River.
Step into the pages of a fairytale on the shore of Slovenia’s Lake Bled – home to the bluest waters you might ever see. Explore the church on the island, walk around the lake surrounded by mountains and treat yourself to a slice of cream cake.
Eat your way through Italy, stopping in at some of the country’s finest food destinations. Whether it’s a real spaghetti carbonara in Rome, a traditional pesto-making demonstration in Cinque Terre or wine windows in Florence, your tastebuds are front and center.
Explore some of the most beautiful and iconic cities in Italy, soak in incredible views and photo ops and tick off plenty of bucket list items, whether it’s playing Romeo or Juliet in Verona or looking out over the Mediterranean Sea from the hills of Cinque Terre.
View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2025 - 31 December 2025
Itinerary
Guten Tag! Welcome to Germany. Your adventure kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight in Berlin. If you arrive in Berlin early, maybe explore the city on foot – Berlin is packed with historic sites, cutting-edge galleries and iconic architecture. The city also boasts a party scene that makes NYC’s nightlife seem tame. If you’re keen to see what Berlin is about, it’s highly recommended that you arrive a couple of days early. Why not get to know your new travel crew tonight and head out for currywurst (hot dogs covered in ketchup, Worcester sauce and curry powder) and a stein.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Berlin - Storyline of Berlin Urban Adventure - EUR65
- Berlin - German History Museum - EUR7
- Berlin - Kulturforum Potsdamer Platz - EUR12
- Berlin - TV Tower - EUR25
- Berlin - Checkpoint Charlie Museum - EUR18
- Berlin - Story of Berlin Museum - EUR14
- Berlin - Topography of Terror - Free
- Berlin - Reichstag (time slot must be booked online in advance) - Free
- Berlin - Schloss Charlottenburg - EUR12
- Berlin - Berliner Dom Cathedral - EUR10
- Berlin - Jewish Museum - EUR10
- Berlin - Bike Tour - EUR30
- Berlin - Museum Pass (3 Day Ticket) - EUR32
- Berlin - National History Museum - EUR10
- Berlin - Spree River Cruise - EUR27
- Berlin - Pergamon Museum - EUR18
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
This morning, say goodbye to Germany and hop on a train to Wroclaw – the cultural centre of southwest Poland sitting on the banks of River Oder. You’ll arrive in the early afternoon. Settle into your hotel, then follow your leader on an orientation walk around the city that makes it feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. The rest of the day is free for you to explore how you wish. Maybe check out Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island), the Old Town Square and the Four Denominations District, where the city’s incredible architecture and history are on display. Or appreciate Wroclaw from River Oder and picnic with a few of your new travel buddies.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Wroclaw - Panorama Raclawicka entrance - PLN50
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
This morning, board a train to Krakow – your base for the next two nights. As you stroll the streets of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, glimpse the medieval architecture, castles, churches and sprawling squares with your leader. Grab some zapiekanka along the way (a baguette topped with mushroom and cheese) – a beloved street snack. Later, strike out on your own and maybe visit Wawel Royal Castle, which sits atop a hill next to the Vistula River or glimpse the impressive St Mary's Basilica and its extraordinary wood-carved Gothic altarpiece. If churches are your thing, the neo-Gothic St Francis' Basilica is worth a visit.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Krakow - Zapiekanka Snack in Kazimierz Quarter
Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
Today is a free day for you to explore Krakow at your own pace. Walking the ‘Royal Route’ – the former path of Polish monarchs – takes you past most of the Old Town’s greatest treasures, including Florianska Gate (a Gothic gateway tower where street musicians tend to play and local artists often display their work), the Barbician and impressive churches and museums. If you can tear yourself away from Krakow, there are lots of interesting day trips available. Maybe head to Wieliczha to visit its 700-year-old salt mine – buried 135 m underground, this complex is a vast network of tunnels, pits and chambers all hewn by hand from solid salt! You’ll also find chapels with elaborate salt chandeliers and lakes deep underground. After a full day of sightseeing, why not hit one of Krakow’s cellar restaurants for a plate of pierogis and a cold drink.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Krakow - Bike Tour (Day or Night) - PLN100
- Krakow - Galicia Jewish Museum - PLN20
- Krakow - History Museum - PLN28
- Krakow - St Mary's Basilica - PLN15
- Krakow - Wawel Royal Castle - PLN35
- Wieliczka - Salt Mines Tour - PLN230
- Oswiecim - Half-Day Trip & Guided Tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau - PLN180
- Krakow - Walking Tour - Free
If you would like to learn more about the history of World War II at the former Nazi concentration camp in Auschwitz, today is your best option. Please note that tickets for the mandatory guided tour sell out well in advance, so need to be pre-booked as early as possible. Please visit the official museum website. You can also ask your leader to help you at the beginning of the trip, but there’s no guarantee that tickets will be available then. Transfers to and from Auschwitz can be booked at shorter notice.
Due to the popularity of Schindler's Factory, you should book in advance if you wish to visit at: muzeumkrakowa.pl/oddzialy/fabryka-emalia-oskara-schindlera.
This morning after breakfast, head to the Czech Republic. Take a bus to the town of Ostrava, then board the train to Prague. After checking into your hotel, your leader will show you some of Prague’s best sites on an orientation walk. Then you’re free to explore on your own. Maybe wander the streets of the Jewish Quarter and check out the oldest surviving synagogue in Europe or learn about Prague’s favourite son at the Franz Kafka Museum. Make sure to take a scenic stroll along the Charles Bridge and watch the Astronomical Clock in action as it ticks over. This is a gorgeous city, so exploring on foot is often people’s go-to activity.
- Hostel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Prague - Kafka Museum - CZK260
Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.
Today you can enjoy more free time in Prague to visit the sites you missed yesterday. Prague Castle has a great viewpoint that provides sweeping views of the city’s red rooftops and medieval architecture. Consider a day trip to Kutna Hora, where you can visit Sedlec Ossuary – an eerie chapel decorated with human skeletons – or St Barbara Church and its medieval frescoes. Prague’s Old Town becomes particularly magical at night. Return for an evening stroll to soak up the atmosphere before checking out some of the town’s cosy cellar hangouts or underground Absinthe bars. If you’re into jazz, Prague also boasts one of the best scenes in Europe! Ask your leader for suggestions if you’re not sure where to head out tonight.
- Hostel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Prague - Bike Tour - CZK650
- Prague - Jewish Quarter - CZK500
- Prague - Kafka Museum - CZK260
- Kutna Hora - Day Trip (by public transport) - CZK250
- Prague - Mucha Museum - CZK300
- Prague - Museum of Communism - CZK380
- Prague - National Museum - CZK350
- Prague - Castle Visit - CZK350
- Kutna Hora - Sedlec Ossuary & Bone Church - CZK160
- Kutna Hora - Church of St Barbara - CZK160
- Prague - Town Hall Clock Tower - CZK250
Bid farewell to Prague today and travel south to the fairytale-like town of Cesky Krumlov. Dating back to the 13th century, this tiny town closely resembles Prague with its gorgeous castle across the river and pretty mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Head out on a leader-led walk around town, as they provide insight into the architectural symbolism and Old Town mysteries. After, use some free time to head to the top of the Castle Tower for a great view of the town’s red rooftops and distant rolling green hills, explore the castle and its gardens or browse the shops that line the riverfront. If you’re feeling active, ask your leader about rafting and canoeing activities on offer (time and weather permitting).
- Guesthouse (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Cesky Krumlov - Brewery Tour - CZK200
- Cesky Krumlov - Guided walking tour - CZK300
- Cesky Krumlov - Egon Schiele Art Centrum - CZK200
- Cesky Krumlov - Rafting or Canoe Trip (per person) - CZK1200
- Cesky Krumlov - Guided Castle Tour - CZK300
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Today’s accommodation is multishare. Your atmospheric hostel in Cesky Krumlov has quadruple, triple and twin rooms as well as little apartment-like rooms.
Hop into your private transfer and travel across the border to Austria and the Baroque city of Vienna. A perennial favourite for the world’s most liveable city, Vienna is also a dream for starry-eyed travellers looking for delicious coffee and pastries (sachertorte in particular), classical music and grand palaces. Get acquainted with the city on a leader-led walk and then enjoy some free time to explore on your own. Art lovers have their pick of museums to explore – maybe check out modern Austrian art at the Leopold Museum, paintings by Monet, Degas and Picasso at the neo-classical Albertina or the world’s largest collection of paintings by Austrian painter Gustav Klimt at Belvedere Palace. This evening, why not sample Vienna’s incredible musical heritage and catch a performance at one of the city’s historic venues such as the Vienna State Opera House.
- Basic Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Spend another day exploring Vienna’s rich artistic and intellectual heritage. Maybe head to Schloss Belvedere (Belvedere Palace), Schoenbrunn Palace or the Hofburg Palace complex to discover Austria’s symmetrical take on over-the-top grandeur. Exploring some of the city’s more specific museums such as the Schnapps Museum, the Sigmund Freud Museum or the Globe Museum, which is located inside the impressive Austrian National Museum. Climb the tower of St Stephen’s Cathedral, take a spin on the Prater Ferris Wheel or catch a dressage show at the Spanish Riding School. If you didn’t head out last night, maybe cap off a culture-filled day with a spot of Mozart Bach or Schubert at the opera house.
- Simple Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Vienna - Albertina Museum - EUR19
- Vienna - Belvedere Gallery (Lower Gallery) - EUR15
- Vienna - Hofburg Palace & Sisi Museum - EUR16
- Vienna - Leopold Museum - EUR15
- Vienna - Prater Ferris Wheel - EUR14
- Vienna - Schoenbrunn Palace - EUR22
- Vienna - Spanish Riding School Practice - EUR28
- Vienna - St Stephen's Tower - EUR6
- Vienna - Vienna Boys Choir Concert - EUR70
The Spanish Riding School doesn't operate throughout the summer. You’ll need to book tickets in advance to see the performance. Phone +43 (0)1 505 77 66 55 or e-mail info@viennaticketoffice.com to arrange tickets.
Due to the popularity of Schoenbrunn, you should book in advance if you wish to visit at: schoenbrunn.at/en
This morning you’ll continue your exploration of Europe’s opulent past in Budapest. Take a train and watch the scenery pass you by – when you arrive, your leader will show you around the city on an orientation walk. Later, visit the cavernous Great Market Hall to check out Hungarian specialties like langos (fried dough) and mangalica (an endemic pig) meat and enjoy a delicious market snack with plenty of tasty local recommendations. More than just a fairy-tale-like ode to the past, Budapest is also a bustling city with hip bars, trendy cafes and plenty of cheap eats. Your evening is free and your leader will make sure that you're equipped with all the insider knowledge when it comes to which are the best (and best-kept secret) ruin bars. A night out here might just be your highlight of the trip!
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Budapest - Market Visit and Snack
- Budapest – Ruin Bar Visit
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Enjoy a free day to explore Budapest further today. Visible from pretty much everywhere in the city, the 13th-century Buda Castle is a must-see. Why not imagine how Hungarian kings used to live by touring the palace complex, which houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Or you could head to Fisherman’s Bastion for the best view of the city before taking a leisurely stroll along the cobbled streets of the Castle District. Another option is a boat trip along the Danube River, where you’ll get a different view of the Parliament buildings, the Castle District and the bridges that link Buda and Pest. Tonight, find one of the many great dinner spots or head back to the ruin bars for a night out.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Budapest - Bike Ride - HUF6000
- Budapest - Great Synagogue - HUF9000
- Budapest - House of Terror - HUF4000
- Budapest - Hungarian National Museum - HUF2900
- Budapest - Hungarian State Opera House Tour - HUF7000
- Budapest - Parliament Tour - HUF12000
- Budapest - Pub Crawl (starting from) - HUF9000
- Budapest - Szechenyi Thermal Baths (starting from) - HUF9400
- Budapest - Transport and Entry to Statue Park - HUF5000
- Budapest - Central Market - Free
Due to the popularity of the Hungarian Parliament Buildings, you should book in advance if you wish to visit at: parlament.hu/en/web/visitors
Get ready for a long day of travel today as you make the journey to Ljubljana. From there, you’ll travel to Bled – a scenic lakeside town tucked at the foothills of the Julian Alps. Arrive in the late afternoon and head to the iconic lake. Here, your leader will point out the town’s best attractions, like its 11th-century clifftop castle and the small island in the lake’s centre. Use the rest of the day to search for Bled’s famous cream cake (which shouldn’t be hard, every cafe in town claims to make the best one) or choose to join the group for an optional dinner of Slovenian specialties.
- Guesthouse (1 night)
- Breakfast
Your travel time today will be approximately 7.5 hours.
Postcard-perfect Bled (the perfect spot if you need a new banging Instagram) is also tailor-made for adventure, and as today is a free day, it’s up to you how you’d like to get active (or chill out and stare at the scenery – it never gets old). Hiking, biking, canoeing and rafting are all on the cards so you can choose to hire a bike and explore the surrounds, head to Vintgar Gorge for a walk through its natural canyon or go rafting along the Soca River. If you’d like to keep it more lowkey, head to Bled Castle for some exploration or take a plenta (small wooden boat) to the church on the island in the middle of the lake to ring the wishing bell. You could even venture further afield and take a day trip to Bohinj – another lakeside town.
- Guesthouse (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Bled - Mountain Bike Hire - EUR25
- Bled - Pletna Boat Trip - EUR14
- Triglav National Park - Canyoning - EUR65
- Bled - Castle - EUR15
- Triglav National Park - River Rafting - EUR55
- Triglav National Park - Bus and Cable Car Trip to Mt Vogel - EUR32
- Triglav National Park - Emerald River Adventure (full day) - EUR110
It’s recommended that you chat to your leader about booking optional activities before arriving in Bled, so you don’t miss out on anything.
This morning, travel to Venice – brace yourself for some amazing scenery on the way. Venice is one of a kind, built over a hundred small islands connected by 400 bridges. As well as all those romantic canals, it has all the hallmarks of a fine old Italian city – world-class food, performance, art and architecture. Use your free time to explore – the best way to go is on foot. Try to take in all the famous sights, like the Grand Canal, the shops of the Rialto Bridge, the Palace of the Doge (ruler of Venice), the Piazza San Marco and its golden basilica, and the Bridge of Sighs. Don't even think about leaving until you've eaten some tiramisu! This is where the dish was born, and they know how to do it just right.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Venice - Doge's Palace & Bridge of Sighs - EUR30
- Peggy Guggenheim Collection - EUR17
- Venice - St Mark's Campanile - EUR12
- Venice - St Mark's Basilica Treasury - EUR5
- Venice - Accademia Gallery - EUR16
- Ca’ D’Oro - Galería Franchetti - EUR15
- Venice - Gondola Ride - EUR80
- Venice - Chicchetti & Wine Tour of Venice Urban Adventure - EUR112
Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.
Space is at a premium in Venice, and your simple hotel is no exception. Rooms are small, but the location more than makes up for it – right in the heart of Venice Island!
Today is free to explore Venice at your own pace until a group meeting at 6 pm tonight. Until then, maybe window shop by the Ponte di Rialto, browse the famous flooding bookshop – Libreria Acqua Alta (the self-proclaimed ‘most beautiful bookshop in the world’) or jump in a gondola and be swept away by the romance of this place. Tonight, why not get together for dinner at Orient Experience – a restaurant providing employment, support and advocacy to Venice’s migrant and refugee community with a menu inspired by their journeys to get to Europe.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Venice - Glass Museum Murano - EUR11
- Venice - Ca' Rezzonico Museum of Eighteenth Century Art - EUR11
- Ca’ D’Oro - Galería Franchetti - EUR15
- Venice - Gondola Ride - EUR80
- Venice - Scuola Grande di San Rocco - EUR14
- Venice - Museum of St Mark's Basilica - EUR5
- Peggy Guggenheim Collection - EUR17
- Venice - Doge's Palace & Bridge of Sighs - EUR30
- Venice - Chicchetti & Wine Tour of Venice Urban Adventure - EUR112
- Venice - Accademia Gallery - EUR16
- Venice - St Mark's Basilica Treasury - EUR5
- Venice - St Mark's Campanile - EUR12
As this is a combo trip, your group leader and your group will likely change here.
If you are interested in visiting Doge's Palace, we strongly suggest planning your visit before the welcome meeting. You can pre-book your tickets at https://muve.vivaticket.it/en/tour/palazzo-ducale/2478?qubsq=8cd3daed-1b9e-4df0-a209-4833f9c62371&qubsp=279989d9-9291-44b1-899f-169c3d93c415&qubsts=1716888509&qubsc=bestunion&qubse=vivaticketserver&qubsrt=Safetynet&qubsh=7cb44c49d26eb092de1552a748b8ae4c
Say farewell to Venice this morning as you leave the canals behind and make your way to Verona – the city that played backdrop to the most famous love story ever told. An orientation walk with your leader will take you around the city and into the courtyard where you can gaze up at Juliet’s balcony (keep an eye out for Romeo lurking around the place). You’ll also go past Arena di Verona – a Roman amphitheatre that still plays host to live performances. Built in AD30 the theatre is one of the best-preserved ancient structures of its kind and is even older than the Colosseum! See if you can find some Sfogliatine di Villafranca (a much-loved crumbly puff pastry dessert invented in Verona). After an afternoon of exploring, jump back on the train and head to Lake Garda. Tonight, find a lakeside restaurant for dinner with your new travel buddies.
- Hostel (multi-share) (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Verona - Orientation walk & Juliet's Balcony
- Peschiera del Garda – Orientation walk
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Wake up today in the lakeside region of Lake Garda. On the banks of the largest lake in Italy, you’ll have free time to explore at your leisure. As one of the most beautiful small towns on the lake, Peschiera del Garda packs a punch, with plenty to see. Wander along the canals and rivers and make your way down to the lakefront where you can take a dip in the turquoise waters or grab some lunch at one of the many restaurants. At the UNESCO World Heritage Site Peschiera del Garda fortress, you can learn how the Republic of Venice defended itself between the 16th and 17th centuries. Tonight, why not grab your group and watch the sunset over the water while sipping on an Aperol spritz or a negroni (or two!).
- Hostel (multi-share) (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Peschiera del Garda – Gardaland Park - EUR50
Leaving the banks of Lake Garda this morning, you’ll make your way to the beautiful city of Parma. As a food lovers paradise, get ready to sample all the traditional delicacies Parma has on offer. When you arrive, your leader will take you around the city on an orientation walk, before leaving you to explore at your own pace. Wander the colourful streets of this gem in the heart of northern Italy, famously the birthplace of Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano. Once you’ve eaten all the cured hams and aged cheeses you can handle (although can you ever really get enough?), maybe check out some incredible art history and the intricately frescoed ceilings in the Duomo di Parma, or head about an hour out and visit the largest labyrinth in the world – Labirinto di Franco Maria Ricci.
- Hostel (multi-share) (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Parma – Orientation Walk
Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
Today, you’ll head to La Spezia, the gateway to Cinque Terre, nestled in the hills of northern Italy and on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Today is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a day at the beach, soak up some sun and eat all the seafood you can stomach. You can also jump on the bus and take a day trip out to the unofficial ‘sixth town’ of Cinque Terre, Portovenere. On the tip of a peninsula, this small finishing town is surrounded by ocean. Full of history, maybe walk out to the 12th century Doira Castle or find literary inspiration at the Grotta di Lord Byron – a popular swimming cove that inspired the author it’s named after. Today is all about enjoying the Mediterranean coast, so make it your own! Don’t forget to check in with your leader to find the best places that only the locals know.
- Guesthouse (multi-share) (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Welcome to Cinque Terre! One of the most beautiful coastal stretches in Italy. Historically, long walking trails were the only way to travel between the villages, which means that other than the incredible views, you’ll also have some hiking opportunities. Today, your leader will take you on a hike through some of these tracks, with the Mediterranean Sea in sight the whole time. Walking past terraced farms and through coastal forests, this is the perfect way to discover this part of Italy. After your hike, the rest of the day is yours. Maybe make your way down to a beach club and soak in the sun, or join a traditional pesto making demonstration for some tricks you can take home. Alternatively, hop on a boat and take a cruise around the coast to see the rolling hills from a different perspective.
- Guesthouse (multi-share) (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Cinque Terre – Leader-led Hike
- Cinque Terre – Day Pass
- Cinque Terre - Coastal Cruise - EUR41
- Cinque Terre - 'Il Laboratorio del Pesto' Making & Demonstration - EUR25
Say arrivederci to Cinque Terre this morning and make your way to Pisa. When you arrive, head over to the Piazza del Duomo where you’ll find the Battistero di San Giovanni, Cattedrale di Pisa and of course the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Join the crowds and get your very own picture holding up the tower or challenge your group to come up with the most original photo. You’ve got free time for the next few hours, so why not ask your leader for the best places to sample some salami, a few cheeses or where to get the best glass of Tuscan wine? Maybe try some Cecina Toscana (traditional flatbread) too. Leave Pisa mid-afternoon, and head for Florence, where your leader will take you on an orientation walk around the city. Ask them to point out any hot spots for dinner and drinks tonight, and where you can jump on an optional food tour or experience happy hour the Italian way (second aperitivo, anyone?).
- Hostel (multi-share) (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Pisa - Half Day Trip
- Florence – Orientation Walk
- Florence - Foodies Walk Urban Adventure - EUR79
- Florence - Aperitivo Time! Urban Adventure - EUR77
Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Today you have a full day to explore one of the most beautiful cities in Italy – Florence. Home to the great Michelangelo, why not visit the Accademia Gallery and see David himself, or visit his replica and other Rennaissance sculptures in the Piazza della Signoria. If you’re feeling up for a bit of a challenge, walk the 463 steps to the top of the Duomo and get one of the best 360 views of Florence. Hunt through the streets and see how many wine windows you can find (there are over 180!), taking full advantage of the quirky little holes in the wall that were originally put in so Florentines could still enjoy a glass of vino during times of plague. Tonight, come together as a group and enjoy a sunset aperitivo in Piazzale Michelangelo before heading out for the night.
- Hostel (multi-share) (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Florence - Sunset Aperitivo in Piazzale Michelangelo
- Florence - Pitti Palace (Boboli Gardens, Museo Argenti, Costume Gallery, Porcellain Museum) - EUR12
- Florence - Bargello Museum - EUR16
- Florence - Medici Chapels - EUR17
- Florence - Uffizi Gallery - EUR29
- Florence - Brunelleschi 3 Days pass - Baptistry, Museo Opera del Duomo, Giotto Bell Tower and Brunelleschi Dome - EUR30
- Florence - Palazzo Vecchio - EUR12
- Florence - Accademia - EUR20
The individual Florentine State Museums each have different opening days and hours. If you are interested in visiting the Galleria Uffizi and Galleria dell'Accademia, we strongly suggest planning your visit for today and pre booking your tickets at https://firenzemusei.it/ to avoid long queues.
To book an Urban Adventure in Florence go to https://www.urbanadventures.com/en/florence or speak to your booking agent.
Your time in Firenze has come to an end. Today, you’ll be heading to the illustrious capital city – Rome. Walking in the footsteps of emperors, conquerors, gladiators and philosophers, the streets of Rome are steeped in history. Follow your leader on an orientation walk and get the lay of the land before heading off to explore. The Roman Colosseum (one of the Seven Wonders of the World) is a must-see for most, whether you admire the architectural marvel from the outside or immerse yourself in the history from the inside. If you’re looking for more ancient Roman architecture, check out the Forum (now home to a colony of cats). You can also talk to your leader about heading out to Vatican City where you can climb St Peter’s Dome or visit the Vatican Museum and check out Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Tonight, your leader can help you find the best place for dinner to toast to the end of your adventure.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Rome - Orientation Walk
- Vatican City - St Peter's Dome Climb & Elevator - EUR10
- Vatican City - Vatican Museum - EUR25
- Rome - Pantheon - EUR5
- Rome - Christian Catacombs - EUR10
- Rome - Keats-Shelley Memorial House - EUR6
- Rome - Venezia Palace - EUR17
- Rome - Galleria Borghese - EUR17
- Rome - Castel Sant'Angelo - EUR19
- Rome - Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill - EUR19
Today's travel time will be approximately 2 hours.
If you are interested in visiting the Colosseum, we strongly suggest planning your visit for today after 2pm or tomorrow if you have extended your time in Rome. You can pre-book your tickets at https://colosseo.it/en/opening-times-and-tickets/
Your trip comes to an end this morning and it’s time to say goodbye to your group. As there is so much to see in Rome, it’s recommended that you stay a little longer and book a few more days – just speak to your booking agent.
- Breakfast
There are strictly enforced dress codes that apply to those wishing to enter the churches of the Vatican City. Men must wear long trousers (no shorts) and cover their shoulders and women must cover from shoulder to below the knee. Check the Vatican website for updated information on when you can visit. The Vatican Museum is closed on some days, including most Sundays. On the last Sunday of the month, it's open and free (but expect large crowds). Please note that pre-booked tickets are not required if you just want to visit St Peter's Basilica and the dome.
If you are interested in visiting the Vatican Museum, we strongly suggest planning your visit for today. You can pre-book your tickets at https://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en.html
Inclusions and activities
8 breakfasts
Train, Metro, Private vehicle, Public bus, Taxi
Hotel (11 nights), Guest house (3 nights), Hostel (multi-share) (7 nights), Guesthouse (multi-share) (2 nights)
- Krakow - Zapiekanka Snack in Kazimierz Quarter
- Budapest - Market Visit and Snack
- Budapest – Ruin Bar Visit
- Verona - Orientation walk & Juliet's Balcony
- Peschiera del Garda – Orientation walk
- Parma – Orientation Walk
- Cinque Terre – Leader-led Hike
- Cinque Terre – Day Pass
- Pisa - Half Day Trip
- Florence – Orientation Walk
- Florence - Sunset Aperitivo in Piazzale Michelangelo
- Rome - Orientation Walk
- Berlin - Storyline of Berlin Urban Adventure - EUR65
- Berlin - German History Museum - EUR7
- Berlin - Kulturforum Potsdamer Platz - EUR12
- Berlin - TV Tower - EUR25
- Berlin - Checkpoint Charlie Museum - EUR18
- Berlin - Story of Berlin Museum - EUR14
- Berlin - Topography of Terror - Free
- Berlin - Reichstag (time slot must be booked online in advance) - Free
- Berlin - Schloss Charlottenburg - EUR12
- Berlin - Berliner Dom Cathedral - EUR10
- Berlin - Jewish Museum - EUR10
- Berlin - Bike Tour - EUR30
- Berlin - Museum Pass (3 Day Ticket) - EUR32
- Berlin - National History Museum - EUR10
- Berlin - Spree River Cruise - EUR27
- Berlin - Pergamon Museum - EUR18
- Wroclaw - Panorama Raclawicka entrance - PLN50
- Krakow - Bike Tour (Day or Night) - PLN100
- Krakow - Galicia Jewish Museum - PLN20
- Krakow - History Museum - PLN28
- Krakow - St Mary's Basilica - PLN15
- Krakow - Wawel Royal Castle - PLN35
- Wieliczka - Salt Mines Tour - PLN230
- Oswiecim - Half-Day Trip & Guided Tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau - PLN180
- Krakow - Walking Tour - Free
- Prague - Kafka Museum - CZK260
- Prague - Bike Tour - CZK650
- Prague - Jewish Quarter - CZK500
- Kutna Hora - Day Trip (by public transport) - CZK250
- Prague - Mucha Museum - CZK300
- Prague - Museum of Communism - CZK380
- Prague - National Museum - CZK350
- Prague - Castle Visit - CZK350
- Kutna Hora - Sedlec Ossuary & Bone Church - CZK160
- Kutna Hora - Church of St Barbara - CZK160
- Prague - Town Hall Clock Tower - CZK250
- Cesky Krumlov - Brewery Tour - CZK200
- Cesky Krumlov - Guided walking tour - CZK300
- Cesky Krumlov - Egon Schiele Art Centrum - CZK200
- Cesky Krumlov - Rafting or Canoe Trip (per person) - CZK1200
- Cesky Krumlov - Guided Castle Tour - CZK300
- Vienna - Albertina Museum - EUR19
- Vienna - Belvedere Gallery (Lower Gallery) - EUR15
- Vienna - Hofburg Palace & Sisi Museum - EUR16
- Vienna - Leopold Museum - EUR15
- Vienna - Prater Ferris Wheel - EUR14
- Vienna - Schoenbrunn Palace - EUR22
- Vienna - Spanish Riding School Practice - EUR28
- Vienna - St Stephen's Tower - EUR6
- Vienna - Vienna Boys Choir Concert - EUR70
- Budapest - Bike Ride - HUF6000
- Budapest - Great Synagogue - HUF9000
- Budapest - House of Terror - HUF4000
- Budapest - Hungarian National Museum - HUF2900
- Budapest - Hungarian State Opera House Tour - HUF7000
- Budapest - Parliament Tour - HUF12000
- Budapest - Pub Crawl (starting from) - HUF9000
- Budapest - Szechenyi Thermal Baths (starting from) - HUF9400
- Budapest - Transport and Entry to Statue Park - HUF5000
- Budapest - Central Market - Free
- Bled - Mountain Bike Hire - EUR25
- Bled - Pletna Boat Trip - EUR14
- Triglav National Park - Canyoning - EUR65
- Bled - Castle - EUR15
- Triglav National Park - River Rafting - EUR55
- Triglav National Park - Bus and Cable Car Trip to Mt Vogel - EUR32
- Triglav National Park - Emerald River Adventure (full day) - EUR110
- Venice - Doge's Palace & Bridge of Sighs - EUR30
- Peggy Guggenheim Collection - EUR17
- Venice - St Mark's Campanile - EUR12
- Venice - St Mark's Basilica Treasury - EUR5
- Venice - Accademia Gallery - EUR16
- Ca’ D’Oro - Galería Franchetti - EUR15
- Venice - Gondola Ride - EUR80
- Venice - Chicchetti & Wine Tour of Venice Urban Adventure - EUR112
- Venice - Glass Museum Murano - EUR11
- Venice - Ca' Rezzonico Museum of Eighteenth Century Art - EUR11
- Venice - Scuola Grande di San Rocco - EUR14
- Venice - Museum of St Mark's Basilica - EUR5
- Peschiera del Garda – Gardaland Park - EUR50
- Cinque Terre - Coastal Cruise - EUR41
- Cinque Terre - 'Il Laboratorio del Pesto' Making & Demonstration - EUR25
- Florence - Foodies Walk Urban Adventure - EUR79
- Florence - Aperitivo Time! Urban Adventure - EUR77
- Florence - Pitti Palace (Boboli Gardens, Museo Argenti, Costume Gallery, Porcellain Museum) - EUR12
- Florence - Bargello Museum - EUR16
- Florence - Medici Chapels - EUR17
- Florence - Uffizi Gallery - EUR29
- Florence - Brunelleschi 3 Days pass - Baptistry, Museo Opera del Duomo, Giotto Bell Tower and Brunelleschi Dome - EUR30
- Florence - Palazzo Vecchio - EUR12
- Florence - Accademia - EUR20
- Vatican City - St Peter's Dome Climb & Elevator - EUR10
- Vatican City - Vatican Museum - EUR25
- Rome - Pantheon - EUR5
- Rome - Christian Catacombs - EUR10
- Rome - Keats-Shelley Memorial House - EUR6
- Rome - Venezia Palace - EUR17
- Rome - Galleria Borghese - EUR17
- Rome - Castel Sant'Angelo - EUR19
- Rome - Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill - EUR19
Is this trip right for you?
- The best way to experience a city is by doing as the locals do – that means using public transport such as trams, trains, buses and metro at some locations. You’ll get an authentic look at daily life but be aware you may find yourself sharing a busy bus ride with local commuters. The trains used on this trip are comfortable, and all have toilets but can also be very busy.
- Europe is steeped in history, which means sometimes the infrastructure is old. Often there are no lifts or escalators, particularly in some train stations or hotels. The cobblestone streets, narrow steps and tiny bridges of Europe are very romantic but they’re also a good reason to pack light and leave the wheeling suitcase at home. You may have to carry your bags up and down stairs, as well as some short distances to the hotel (no longer than 30 minutes). Make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations – check the 'Packing' section of the Essential Trip Information.
- Don’t let the heat keep you from exploring the world! Summer temperatures can be very high in Europe, making things uncomfortable. It’s essential to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water.
- It’s bunking season! As some accommodation on this trip is twin or multi-share, solo travellers will share a room with other travellers of the same gender, an excellent opportunity to get to know other like-minded people. A single supplement is unavailable on this trip as space is at a premium in Europe, and your hotel is no exception. For those travelling as a pair, European hotels often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.
Dates and availability
Important notes
1. Pre and post tour accommodation and transfers are available to book upon request, subject to availability. Please contact your booking agent for more details.
2. A single supplement is not available on this trip.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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