Best Contiki Tours You Should Book This Year
Jan 28 2026
Travelling is more than simply ticking destinations off a bucket list, it's about creating unforgettable memories, experiencing new cultures, and meeting people who share your passion for adventure. If you're between 18 and 35 years old, Contiki offers some of the world's most exciting guided group tours, making international travel easier, safer, and far more social.
From exploring Europe's iconic cities and relaxing on the Greek Islands to discovering Japan's unique traditions or embarking on an African safari, Contiki has itineraries designed for every type of traveller. Whether you're travelling solo, with friends, or looking for your first international adventure, these tours combine expertly planned itineraries with enough free time to make every trip your own.
To help you choose, we've compiled 20 of the best Contiki tours you should book this year, along with their highlights, ideal travellers, and what makes each experience truly special.
Best Contiki Tours At A Glance
Tour | Main Destinations | Best For | Duration* |
European Highlights | France, Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Italy | First-time Europe visitors | 10–14 Days |
European Whirl | Multiple European countries | Multi-country explorers | 14–20 Days |
Italian Escape | Rome, Florence, Venice | Food & history lovers | 7–10 Days |
Greek Island Hopping | Mykonos, Santorini, Ios | Beach holidays | 8–12 Days |
Spain & Portugal | Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon, Porto | Culture & nightlife | 9–14 Days |
Britain & Ireland Explorer | England, Scotland, Ireland | History lovers | 10–15 Days |
Croatia Sailing | Split, Hvar, Dubrovnik | Island adventures | 7–10 Days |
Japan Unrivalled | Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka | Cultural exploration | 10–14 Days |
Vietnam Experience | Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An | Budget travellers | 9–12 Days |
Thailand Island Hopper | Phuket, Phi Phi, Krabi | Tropical escapes | 8–10 Days |
Bali Island Adventure | Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu | Relaxation & culture | 7–9 Days |
Australia Adventure | Sydney, Cairns, Great Barrier Reef | Nature lovers | 10–15 Days |
New Zealand Quest | Queenstown, Rotorua, Auckland | Adventure seekers | 10–14 Days |
Canadian Rockies | Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise | Scenic landscapes | 8–12 Days |
USA National Parks | Grand Canyon, Zion, Yosemite | Road trips | 10–13 Days |
California Dreaming | Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco | City explorers | 8–10 Days |
Peru In-Depth | Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu | Ancient history | 9–12 Days |
South Africa Adventure | Cape Town, Safari Parks | Wildlife lovers | 9–13 Days |
Morocco Explorer | Marrakech, Sahara Desert | Unique cultural experiences | 8–10 Days |
Scandinavia & Baltics | Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Estonia | Scenic Europe | 10–14 Days |
*Durations vary depending on the itinerary and departure.
European Highlights
For travellers visiting Europe for the first time, European Highlights is often considered the perfect introduction. This tour takes you through some of the continent's most iconic cities while allowing you to experience diverse cultures, cuisines, and landscapes in a single journey.
Imagine admiring the Eiffel Tower in Paris, cruising through Amsterdam's canals, wandering Venice's romantic streets, exploring Florence's Renaissance history, and standing before Rome's ancient Colosseum, all in one carefully planned itinerary.
The pace is exciting but manageable, making it ideal for travellers who want to experience Europe's biggest attractions without worrying about logistics.
Perfect For
First-time Europe travellers
Solo travellers
Photography enthusiasts
Culture lovers
European Whirl
If you believe that "more is better," European Whirl is designed for you. This tour covers numerous countries and offers one of the most comprehensive introductions to Europe.
You'll experience bustling capital cities, charming alpine villages, world-famous museums, medieval architecture, and breathtaking countryside. Although it's a fast-paced itinerary, every destination offers something unique, ensuring no two days feel the same.
This is one of Contiki's signature adventures for travellers who want to maximise every day of their holiday.
Italian Escape
Italy is famous for its incredible food, rich history, artistic heritage, and stunning architecture, and this tour brings it all together beautifully.
From tossing a coin into Rome's Trevi Fountain and exploring the Vatican to tasting authentic gelato in Florence and gliding through Venice's picturesque canals, every day feels like stepping into a postcard.
The relaxed pace also gives travellers time to enjoy local cafés, boutique shopping, and authentic Italian cuisine beyond the scheduled activities.
Greek Island Hopping
If crystal-clear waters, whitewashed villages, and unforgettable sunsets are what you dream about, Greek Island Hopping should be at the top of your list.
Travellers spend their days relaxing on beautiful beaches, sailing between islands, discovering charming cafés, and enjoying Greece's famous nightlife. Destinations such as Mykonos, Santorini, and Ios each offer their own unique atmosphere, from luxury beach clubs to peaceful coastal villages.
This tour is especially popular during the summer months and is perfect for anyone seeking a balance of relaxation and adventure.
Spain & Portugal Adventure
Spain and Portugal are known for their lively atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and fascinating history. This journey takes you through colourful cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon, and Porto, where every street is filled with stunning architecture, local traditions, and vibrant nightlife.
Whether you're sampling authentic tapas, watching a flamenco performance, or strolling through historic neighbourhoods, you'll experience the warmth and energy that make the Iberian Peninsula so memorable.
Britain & Ireland Explorer
This tour combines the best of England, Scotland, and Ireland into one unforgettable experience. Walk through London's famous landmarks, admire Scotland's breathtaking Highlands, visit centuries-old castles, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of traditional Irish towns.
History enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the blend of medieval architecture, royal heritage, and dramatic landscapes throughout the trip.
Croatia Sailing Adventure
Croatia has become one of Europe's most sought-after summer destinations, and this sailing adventure showcases exactly why.
Cruise along the stunning Adriatic coastline, swim in turquoise waters, visit UNESCO-listed towns, and enjoy evenings filled with waterfront dining and entertainment. It's a relaxed yet exciting holiday that perfectly combines sightseeing with leisure.
Japan Unrivalled
Japan offers one of the world's most fascinating blends of tradition and innovation. During this tour, you'll experience bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka alongside peaceful temples, historic shrines, bamboo forests, and beautiful gardens in Kyoto.
Food lovers can indulge in authentic sushi, ramen, and regional specialities, while culture enthusiasts will appreciate the country's unique customs and hospitality.
Vietnam Experience
Vietnam is an excellent choice for travellers looking for incredible value without compromising on unforgettable experiences.
From cruising through Ha Long Bay to wandering the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and exploring the bustling markets of Ho Chi Minh City, this tour offers a wonderful mix of history, nature, and local culture.
Thailand Island Hopper
Thailand's tropical islands are famous for their white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, vibrant nightlife, and exciting water sports.
This tour includes island-hopping adventures, snorkelling opportunities, traditional markets, and plenty of time to relax under the sun, making it ideal for beach lovers.
More Incredible Contiki Tours
Tour | Why You'll Love It |
Bali Island Adventure | Discover temples, waterfalls, rice terraces, beach clubs, and Balinese culture. |
Australia Adventure | Explore Sydney, tropical Queensland, and the Great Barrier Reef. |
New Zealand Quest | Perfect for hiking, bungee jumping, glaciers, and breathtaking landscapes. |
Canadian Rockies Explorer | Visit Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, and spectacular mountain scenery. |
USA National Parks Adventure | Experience iconic parks including the Grand Canyon, Zion, and Yosemite. |
California Dreaming | Enjoy the excitement of Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and San Francisco. |
Peru In-Depth | Discover Machu Picchu, Cusco, and Peru's fascinating Inca heritage. |
South Africa Adventure | Combine city life, wildlife safaris, and scenic coastal drives. |
Morocco Explorer | Ride camels through the Sahara Desert and explore colourful souks. |
Ultimate Scandinavia & Baltics | Experience dramatic fjords, Nordic cities, and charming Baltic capitals. |
Which Contiki Tour Should You Choose?
If You Want... | Recommended Tour |
Your first Europe trip | European Highlights |
The most countries in one trip | European Whirl |
Amazing food | Italian Escape |
Beaches & nightlife | Greek Island Hopping |
Adventure sports | New Zealand Quest |
Rich culture | Japan Unrivalled |
Budget-friendly travel | Vietnam Experience |
Wildlife | South Africa Adventure |
Incredible scenery | Canadian Rockies Explorer |
Ancient history | Peru In-Depth |
Tips Before Booking
To get the most out of your Contiki holiday:
Book several months in advance for the best prices.
Compare different tour lengths before deciding.
Check what's included in your chosen itinerary.
Budget for optional excursions and personal expenses.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
Pack light, as you'll be moving between destinations frequently.
Final Thoughts
Contiki has built its reputation by making travel exciting, convenient, and social for young adventurers. Whether you're wandering through Europe's historic streets, relaxing on the beaches of Greece, hiking in New Zealand, or exploring Japan's vibrant cities, there's a Contiki tour that matches your travel style.
Before making your choice, consider the destinations you most want to visit, the pace of travel you prefer, and the experiences that matter most to you. With so many incredible itineraries available, your next unforgettable adventure could be just one booking away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Contiki tour is best for first-time travellers?
European Highlights is one of the most recommended tours for first-time travellers thanks to its balanced itinerary, iconic landmarks, and mix of famous European cities.
Which Contiki destination is best for solo travellers?
Nearly all Contiki tours attract solo travellers, but European Whirl, Greek Island Hopping, and Japan Unrivalled are especially popular for meeting new people.
Which Contiki tour offers the best value?
Tours in Vietnam, Thailand, and Bali are often considered excellent value due to their affordable local costs and diverse experiences.
When should I book my Contiki tour?
Booking 3 to 6 months in advance gives you the best choice of departures, accommodation, and promotional offers.
Can I customise my experience?
Yes. While the main itinerary is planned, most tours include free time and optional activities, allowing you to personalise your trip based on your interests and budget.