European Whirl – Austria Tour for Young Adults & Young Solo Travellers

European Whirl Tours for Young Adults

The one that combines history, adventure, natural beauty, food and fun times over 18 days

Dreaming of your European adventure, but don’t know where to start? Welcome to the European Whirl. Taking in all the iconic hotspots you could want through Paris, Rome and Amsterdam, it also ventures to the east to the trendy must-see cities of Berlin and Prague, not to mention swoon-worthy flings with the Austrian Tyrol and Michelangelo’s Florence. Along the way you can expect private boats through Venetian canals, an exclusive Paris by Night tour and a blissful balance of active adventures, local experiences, foodie hotspots and total relaxation. It’s the perfect way to see this blockbuster continent in all its glory.

“70 percent join our trips solo”

“70% of our travellers join our trips solo, so you’ll travel with like-minded young people who want to make friends, experience new things and create lifelong memories. This is the best way to turn solo travel into the most social travel imaginable.” (Cited from the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults. For the latest info and eventual changes see here)

“Most popular youth travel company in the world”

Info by the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults (“Most popular youth travel company in the world”, Wikipedia): “Our trips are exclusively for 18-35s, and whether you join us solo or in a group, our trips are designed so you can share incredible experiences with young travellers just like you.”

Reviews by tour participants:

4.7 out of 5 stars (309 Reviews)* (all reviews and the latest rating available on the details page

Target age group:

18 to 35 (35 to 45 at “Reunion Trips“)

Trip duration and price:

18 days, 8 countries from about $ 2860* (final prices – also in other currencies like British £ or € – available on the booking page)

Destinations:

Europe > Austria

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Planned Itinerary:

Day 1: London

Dover

Calais

Amsterdam

Day 2: Amsterdam

Day 3: Amsterdam

Berlin

Day 4: Berlin

Day 5: Berlin

Dresden

Prague

Day 6: Prague

Day 7: Prague

Munich

Day 8: Munich

Hopfgarten im Brixental

Day 9: Hopfgarten im Brixental

Venice

Day 10: Venice

Rome

Day 11: Rome

Day 12: Rome

Florence

Day 13: Florence

Swiss Alps

Day 14: Swiss Alps

Day 15: Swiss Alps

Geneva

Beaujolais Wine Region

Day 16: Beaujolais Wine Region

Paris

Day 17: Paris

Day 18: Paris

Calais

Dover

London

Day 1: London to Amsterdam via Dover and Calais

LondonThe adventure of a lifetime kicks off today. Meet up with your new Contiki family in London town before hitting the road to Amsterdam.

DoverShortly before we find our ferry for France, we’ll be taking in the English coastline beauty of the White Cliffs of Dover. They owe their gorgeousness to their composition of chalk – you’re learning and we haven’t even left the UK!

CalaisOff the ferry we arrive in the port town of Calais – French soil! We travel north via Belgium before reaching…Amsterdam!AmsterdamTonight, the famed-for-fun Amsterdam is ours to explore. First fill up on your included group dinner, then plenty of bars are there for the curious.

Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)

Included Meals:

DinnerIncluded ExperienceMarvel at the White Cliffs of Dover See the iconic chalk-white coastline. So special that it’s had songs dedicated to it.Have a Go on Amsterdam’s Highest SwingThere’s no better way to start your time in the capital city than with an exclusive entrance into Europe’s highest swing. An unrivalled panoramic view of Amsterdam’s historic centre, unique Dutch landscape, & famous canals which belong to the UNESCO world heritage list. Be amazed by this vibrant city while you swing back & forth 100 metres above the ground then enjoy a drink at the top.
Additional costs apply

Day 2: AmsterdamMake Travel Matter®

AmsterdamAmsterdam is cute as a button & sure to win your heart with its canals, obscure museums & a café culture like no other. This afternoon use your time to get local, bar hop, museum crawl, and see what other tastes take your fancy, this town is famous for pancakes, frites and so much more.

Via Hostel Amsterdam (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Make Travel Matter® Clogs, Edam and Dinner Experience (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience) Join local Dutch farmers to get an insight into how clogs and Edam cheese are made. After a demo and a tasting sesh (of the cheese, that is), we’ll enjoy a traditional Dutch dinner in a restored cheese-making barn.
Additional costs apply

Highlights of Amsterdam Canal CruiseFloating down Amsterdam’s canals by night is the perfect way to finish off your trip as you cruise past historic buildings. The cruise gives you a different take on one of Europe’s hottest creative capitals!
Additional costs apply

Day 3: Amsterdam to Berlin

AmsterdamOut of Amsterdam, onto the autobahn and on the fast-track to uber-cool Berlin. That’s on today’s agenda. BerlinOn the world map of cool party vibes, Berlin has a gold star. We’ve got two nights to explore every inch of this amazing city, and we’ll kick it off with a bit of history into the city and its troubled and interesting past. Once we arrive your Trip Manager can point you in the right direction to go and see the sights.

Generator Mitte (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included ExperienceTour BerlinGet your culture on. It’s time to see Tiergarten, Alexanderplatz, the Russian War Memorial, Brandenburg Gate and the historic Reichstag building.
Included ExperienceBrowse East Side Gallery Heads up culture vultures. Here’s your chance to check out the longest open-air gallery in the world.

Day 4: Berlin

Berlin

Get into the mood of exploration. Berlin has so much to offer the hungry traveler, from the obvious icons like Checkpoint Charlie to all the obscurities tucked away in the side streets. Spend the day lapping up history, scouting the Berlin Wall and dialing up your intellect at sites like the Russian War Memorial, Brandenburg Gate & historic Reichstag building. That way you can let loose a little in the evening without a hint of remorse.

Generator Mitte (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Historical Walking TourDiscover the history of 20th century Berlin with our Local Guide & get up close to notorious Third Reich spots. Get the low-down on Hitler’s last days at the site of his underground bunker & learn about Goebbels, the sinister spin doctor at the former Reich’s Propaganda Ministry. You’ll hear about East German communism before making a sobering visit to the Holocaust Memorial.
Additional costs apply

Alternative BerlinYou can put down the history books & discover the most important historical and cultural aspects of Kreuzberg for yourself. Tour includes a delicious dinner.
Additional costs apply

Day 5: Berlin to Prague via Dresden

Berlin”More city hangs” you’ll all scream in unison as we motor out of Berlin, high on life & still wanting more. Since you asked so nicely, let us present you with Prague, the darling of Europe.

DresdenA drive from Berlin to Prague 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 re-birthed beauty of the Opera house, the domed Frauenkirche, & the Royal Residence.PragueOn arrival in the compact & lovable city of Prague, we’ll get out and go exploring, seeing castles and cathedrals and learning of Bohemian Kings and gothic history. Tonight, you’ll have the chance to join an optional Czech evening with traditional music, dancing & dinner for all the Czech vibes you could hope for.

Plus Prague (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceSee Dresden highlights See the Baroque architecture that was rebuilt after the WWII bombings. Royal Residence, Zwinger Palace, Opera House and Frauenkirche.
Included Experience Tour Prague on foot Walk through the winding cobbled streets and head up into the fairytale-like Castle District for panoramic city views.
Traditional Czech EveningIn the heart of Prague, you’ll get up close to Czech culture with a live music performance & traditional dancing. Try out the hearty local dishes, like different dumplings, as you sample the local wine & beer. This is the perfect chance for a festive night out with the group, so make sure you get some pointers from your Trip Manager & keep it going with a night out, Prague style.
Additional costs apply

Day 6: Prague

Prague
With a full day to loiter, expect an entire photo album of Gothic architecture, market antiques & you cheers-ing local beer; not to mention life!Then, the night isyours to amble around the Old Town Square and find a few haunts to let the hours slip away in.

Plus Prague (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Take a ‘Hidden Prague’ Tour with a Local GuideTake to the historic streets of Prague to check out the Slivovitz Museum, the John Lennon Wall, Charles Bridge and of course, the Beer Museum. You’ll also get to try some true Czech delicacies, including fruit brandy and chimney cake. Pssst. Afterwards, we’ll head out for a drink (or three) at Prague’s most secret club.
Additional costs apply

Day 7: Prague to Munich

PraguePack your bags and say your goodbyes to the city of Prague. Germany is just next door and we’ve been invited in for a spot of fun!MunichThis place isn’t just an Oktoberfest affair, Munich is lovable year round. And thankfully, it gets into the spirit of Bavarian beer culture year round too. The town square with a famous Glockenspiel is high priority on today’s agenda.

Wombat’s Hostel (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included Experience Clink your Steins at a Beer Hall We’ll make a stop at a traditional Bavarian ‘Bier Halle’. Grab your Contiki crew and a beer. Prost!Mike’s Bike TourExplore Munich like a true Bavarian & join us on a guided bike tour when you cycle past the famous sights as your Local Guide explains the fascinating history of the city. The perfect way to see a lot in a short time.
Additional costs apply

Day 8: Munich to Austrian Tyrol

MunichGoodbye Munich, hello mountains. We’re hitting the road in search of lands so sweet they made The Sound of Music.Hopfgarten im BrixentalNext up, Contiki’s very own Austrian Gasthof (guest house) is waiting for us with open arms. Before we swing into action with a themed party, get outside and explore the dreamy setting we’ve descended upon, or opt for tandem paragliding for those thrill seekers among us or take to the hills like Heidi on a bike ride.

Contiki Haus Schoneck (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Austrian White Water RaftingHave a blast on the River Inn’s rapids in an adrenaline-pumping ride under the watch of professional Local Guides. Don’t worry: if you can swim, you’re in – & before you hit the alpine waters, you’ll be fully kitted out with wetsuits & safety helmets.
Additional costs apply

Austrian ParaglidingTake off from the side of a mountain & soar over this stunning region in an adrenaline-pumping tandem paraglide. Flying with an experienced, professional pilot also gives you a chance to grab some great photos on the way! All you need for this adventure is some warm clothing & walking shoes.
Please note the maximum weight limit for this activity is 115kg.
Additional costs apply

Day 9: Austrian Tyrol to Venice

Hopfgarten im BrixentalWake up roamers, we have a bountiful breakfast and a floating city in Italy to tend to. Life’s tough!VeniceYou’ll think you’ve seen enough beauty for one day after taking in the Central Austrian Alps & Brenner Pass en route to Italy. And then we’ll arrive in Venice & your jaw will hit the floor over hidden lanes, story book bridges & a private canal boat ride.

Anda Venice Hostel (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceCruise on a Motoscafo to Venice Speed across the lagoon to the aqueous island of Venice.Included Experience See canals and gondolas Life’s all about the waterways here; there’s not an Uber in sight! Get some classic pics of the famous gondola boats.
GondolasSit back & watch the city open up from the canals in a gondola. From magnificent palazzi looming in the distance to the locals’ laundry strung across the backwaters, Venice’s charm gets you at every turn.
Additional costs apply

Hidden Venice & AperitivoGet an in-depth look into Venice as you walk through the lanes & squares of the city’s historic heart. Our Local Guide will show you the monuments & reveal the hidden secrets of the floating city before finishing with a drink & some cicchetti (Venetian style tapas) in true Venetian fashion.
Additional costs apply

Gooses T-ShirtsFeeling creative? Make up a one-off design for a trip t-shirt with your group. They’re perfect for keeping your travel memories fresh when you’re back home.
Additional costs apply

Day 10: Venice to Rome

VeniceFarewell floating city, but Italy, we’re not done with you yet, our next destination the Eternal City of Rome is just around the corner.RomeThe evening will really take it up to high key as we uncover Italian icons in the country’s capital of Rome. With a city tour on arrival, we’ll get a glimpse of Rome’s glory by night, ready to be fully unveiled tomorrow. Gelato, pizza and ancient monuments, we’re here for it all.

Hostel Trustever (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceTour Rome on Foot Stroll around the Italian capital, ticking off some sights on your bucket list!

Day 11: Rome

Rome
Rome wasn’t built in a day – so get up and get going early to make the most of this ancient city. 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.

Hostel Trustever (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Emperors & Gladiators inc ColosseumWander through the ruins of the ancient Roman Empire’s political heart, while our Local Guide peels back the layers of history & reconstructs the past. From the assassinations at the Forum to the bloody battles in the Colosseum, learn how the roots of Western culture started here. Subject to availability – if Colosseum tickets are not available for your trip, the alternative Ancient Rome of the Emperors tour will be offered.
Additional costs apply

Ancient Rome of the EmperorsDiscover the wonders of ancient Rome by embarking on a captivating tour of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the iconic ruins and archaeological treasures that once stood at the heart of the Roman Empire. Take in the the best view of the Colosseum as your local guide brings these ancient sites to life with fascinating stories and historical insights.
Additional costs apply

Day 12: Rome to Florence

Rome

We may be hitting the road again, but we’re not done with Italy just yet. We have one more city to lust over…

Florence

The dome of Duomo Cathedral sits above the city making certain we know we have arrived in Florence. Take a moment to take in the unique beauty of this beautiful city where culture and la dolce vita is evident in every direction you look. We’ll wander along the banks of the Arno before hanging a right into a cobble-stoned wonderland, filled with history and beauty alike. Then we’ll learn the art of Florentine leather before venturing off to see what this “city of dreams” has in store for the afternoon. Tonight you can choose to begin your Tuscan love affair at an optional dinner – think olives, cured meats, crostini & wine.

Hostel 7 Santi (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Tuscan DinnerWind down with the fantastic local wine, Chianti, in the heart of Florence. In true Italian fashion, our warm hosts will load your table with a feast of entrées followed by a house speciality & something ‘dolce’ for dessert.
Additional costs apply

Day 13: Florence to Swiss Alps

Florence
That’s it for our feasting on all things Florence. With the Swiss Alps in our sights, the devastation of leaving this place should be well and truly numbed.
Swiss Alps
Arrive in a picture perfect setting ready for two nights at our accomodation in the heart of this traditional resort town. Tonight we’ll have a chance to soak up the idyllic scenery, as well as load up on Swiss chocolate.

Youth Hostel Interlaken (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Day 14: Swiss Alps

Swiss Alps

Plenty of views await us today (and if you can find words to do them justice, we applaud you). We’ll head to the top of Jungfrau Mountain via cog train and cable car. Want to spike your adrenaline levels too? No probs. You’ll also have the chance to go on the canyon swing.

Youth Hostel Interlaken (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Jungfrau Mountain Journey to the ‘top of Europe’ as you take a cog train & Cable Car up Jungfrau Mountain in the Swiss Alps
Additional costs apply

Jungfrau Mountain and Canyon SwingWe’ll journey to the top of Europe via cog train and cable car, stopping off at the legendary Jungfrau Mountain – one of the highest summits of the Bernese Alps. Before we finish the day we will go for an adrenalin packed Canyon Swing in nearby Grindelwald.
Additional costs apply

Day 15: Swiss Alps to Beaujolais Wine Region via Geneva

Swiss Alps
Out with the altitude, into France for a brand new day and a brand new country.

GenevaBut first, there’s time for one last breath of fresh mountain air. A quick lunch break in the home of the UN’s headquarters and a view of that oh so famous water fountain. Grab a bite to eat and a last mouthful of delish swiss chocolate (try saying that three times fast) and then we’ll be on our way.Beaujolais Wine Region
Once we’ve crossed the border out of Switzerland we will be coasting into wine and cheese territory on our scenic journey to Beaujolais. Tonight’s the night we stay at Contiki’s very own 16th century château. Well, we say camp, but this might be the most royal experience of your life. Pool parties, wine tasting at the fully functoning winery, strolling the dreamy French countryside…so many ways to kill time, each as unforgettable as the next. We’ll also try some local delicacies with an included group dinner (washed down with local wine, naturally).

Please note: On occasion, certain departures will be moved from Contiki’s Chateau 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)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included ExperienceTaste Wine at the ChâteauBe a VIP at the epic Contiki Château and fill up on a banquet of classic French dishes and wines. Ooh la la!

Day 16: Beaujolais Wine Region to Paris

Beaujolais Wine Region
Yes, yes, we know you want to stay here forever, but the show must go on. And there is more French fabulousness just around the corner, we promise.
Paris

Lamp-lit bridges, a sparkling Eiffel Tower, & evening coffee haunts, tonight we fall in love with everything Paris. Our Trip Manager fills us in on the city’s secrets, then to celebrate our first night in the city.*Heads up, our Paris plans might shift during the Summer 2024 Olympics due to city restrictions, impacting our Illuminations Tour of the city along with other possible disruptions. We’re on it, crafting alternative experiences for your safety and enjoyment. Your understanding means the world to us!

Jo&Joe (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included ExperienceTake a Guided Yoga Session on the château LawnsClear out the cobwebs and get in touch with you zen side with a guided yoga session on the sweeping lawns of the château.
Included ExperienceTake a Tour of ParisTake 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.

Day 17: Paris

Paris

Pastries, paintings, perfume – Paris is yours! We’ll take you to the glamorous Fragonard perfumery, then the time is yours to roam tree-lined quartiers, wander Le Marais for food, shop up a storm on the Champs Elysee, or get arty in the galleries of the Louvre. It’s our last night together – make it count with can-can girls & a Cabaret show.

Jo&Joe (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceVisit a French Perfumery Your chance to learn the art of fragrance at a Parisian perfume house. You know it makes scents! (soz).Parisian Farewell DinnerFinish off your trip with a night to remember right in the heart of Paris. This typical French bistro dishes up a three-course meal & some local wine plus loads of atmosphere & is the perfect place to toast your trip before you say farewell to your travel buddies.
Additional costs apply

See a Paris Cabaret ShowGet your glad rags on… it’s time for a night out at the Parisian cabaret. From your lamp-lit table, you’ll feast your eyes on a succession of feathers, sequins, can-can girls, acrobats, and comedians – sipping on delicious French champagne all the while.
Additional costs apply

Day 18: Paris to London

Paris

Soak up your last dose of Paris and feel the astonishment of how much you’ve seen. And how close you’ve grown to your loved-up Contiki collective.

CalaisFor those not leaving us until London, we’ll travel to Calais where we make our way back to London-town, where you’ll be left to start dreaming up your next big adventure.

DoverLondon

What a journey, on arrival in London say a fond farewell to the group as you wrap up the journey on arrival.

Included Meals:

Breakfast

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details & booking page

Some of the Highlights:

Included Experience
Tour Prague on foot

Walk through the winding cobbled streets and head up into the fairytale-like Castle District for panoramic city views.

INCLUDED

Included Experience
Clink your Steins at a Beer Hall

We’ll make a stop at a traditional Bavarian ‘Bier Halle’. Grab your Contiki crew and a beer. Prost!

INCLUDED

Included Experience
Taste Wine at the Château

Be a VIP at the epic Contiki Château and fill up on a banquet of classic French dishes and wines. Ooh la la!

INCLUDED

Highlights of Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Floating down Amsterdam’s canals by night is the perfect way to finish off your trip as you cruise past historic buildings. The cruise gives you a different take on one of Europe’s hottest creative capitals!

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Mike’s Bike Tour

Explore Munich like a true Bavarian & join us on a guided bike tour when you cycle past the famous sights as your Local Guide explains the fascinating history of the city. The perfect way to see a lot in a short time.

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

See a Paris Cabaret Show

Get your glad rags on… it’s time for a night out at the Parisian cabaret. From your lamp-lit table, you’ll feast your eyes on a succession of feathers, sequins, can-can girls, acrobats, and comedians – sipping on delicious French champagne all the while.

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Trip Highlights

The must do experiences that you can cross off your bucket list

You’ll find all highlights and eventual changes on the details page

FAQs:

What currency do I need?

For this trip, we recommend that you carry the British Pound, Euro, Czech Koruna, Swiss Franc. (It’s a coin collector’s dream!)

You’ll find all FAQs and the latest info on the details page

Included Meals:

17 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Team:

Expert Trip Manager + Driver Team + Local Guides

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Group Size:

Average 43 people

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Transfers:

Coach

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

More Details:

You’ll find all details and the latest updates on the details & booking page

Over 70,000 – Join Us

Get occasional updates by email:

(Partially) travel with a nice group or entirely travel solo?

By booking an organized Austria tour for young adults or other Europe trips for young people you can not only reduce planning hassle, but often also save money, as tour operators can buy accommodations, transportation, etc. in larger contingents in advance and thus get special conditions. You will also benefit from the experience of the tour operator, professional tour guides (whose stories you can enjoy…) and have the easy opportunity to meet nice fellow travelers when traveling in a group. Anyone who has traveled before will know that travel companions or other traveling acquaintances are one of the most essential factors for unforgettable experiences. In addition, you usually have enough individual freedom even with organized tours and you can, if the arrival and departure is not included, additionally extend your stay individually before or after the group tour with young adults. If you still prefer to organize your trip completely on your own and travel independently, then you’ll find all the practical tools you need to plan and book quickly & cheaply on our individual travel page.