contiki tour london to rome

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London to Rome Vistas (Summer, Start London, 19 Days)

• Walking Adventure
• Partially Guided

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 London to Amsterdam
• Day 2 Amsterdam
• Day 3 Amsterdam to Hamburg
• Day 4 Hamburg to Copenhagen
• Day 5 Copenhagen
• Day 6 Copenhagen to Berlin
• Day 7 Berlin
• Day 8 Berlin to Warsaw
• Day 9 Warsaw
• Day 10 Warsaw to Krakow
• Day 11 Krakow
• Day 12 Krakow to Budapest
• Day 13 Budapest
• Day 14 Budapest to Austrian Tyrol
• Day 15 Austrian Tyrol
• Day 16 Austrian Tyrol to Ljubljana
• Day 17 Ljubljana to Venice
• Day 18 Venice to Rome
• Day 19 Rome

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Ibis Budget Amsterdam City South (or similar)

Super 8 by Wyndham Hamburg Mitte (or similar)

Scandic Sydhaven (or similar)

Holiday Inn Berlin West (or similar)

Ibis Budget Warszawa Centrum (Warsaw, Poland)

Vienna House Easy Cracow (or similar)

Ibis Budapest City South Hotel (or similar)

Contiki Haus Schoneck (or similar)

Ibis Styles Ljubljana Centre (or similar)

LH Hotel Sirio Venice (or similar)

Hotel Santa Costanza (or similar)

Operated by Contiki

Contiki has been running tours for over 50 years, all exclusively for travellers aged 18-35 years...

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation policy.

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.5
• Itinerary Excellent 5.0
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 5.0
• Accommodation Good 4.0
• Food Good 4.0
• Tour Operator Contiki 4.7

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• -30% Get Instant Confirmation Monday 15 Jul, 2024 Friday 2 Aug, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €4,574 €3,202 Confirm Dates
• -30% Get Instant Confirmation Monday 12 Aug, 2024 Friday 30 Aug, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €4,574 €3,202 Confirm Dates
• -30% Get Instant Confirmation Monday 16 Sep, 2024 Friday 4 Oct, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €4,441 €3,109 Only Pay €100 Deposit Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

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Good to Know

• Currencies € Euro Austria, France, Germany, Italy and Netherlands kr Danish Krone Denmark Ft Forint Hungary zł Zloty Poland £ Pound Sterling England

As a traveller from USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, K, L, G. As a traveller from England you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, K, L.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Tick-borne encephalitis - Recommended for Austria, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia. Ideally 6 months before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 3rd September 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 3rd September 2024, a minimum payment of €100 is required to confirm your booking with Contiki. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Contiki will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Contiki" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of Contiki. Please familiarise yourself with the Contiki payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

You really can do Rome in a day — and this is the best way

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Whizzing down the road in a convoy of brightly coloured vintage Fiat 500s is certainly a novel way to make the most of Italy ’s capital.

The last time I attempted to do ‘do Rome ’ in 24 hours had been during a heatwave when the temperatures hit over 40C. Every single piazza was packed with tourists and I just didn’t know where to start. Should I see the Trevi Fountain , The Colosseum, Vatican City, the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon…. There’s just so much to tick off. 

I had heard so many wonderful things about Rome , but instead of falling in love with this romantic capital steeped in history and beauty, by the time my break was over, I was a hot, sweaty mess and desperate to go home.

I’ll admit that my heart didn’t jump with joy at the thought of heading back on a tight timeframe again.

This time though, thank goodness, it was a very different experience. 

If my first failed visit had taught me anything, it was do not even attempt to try and do everything. It’s impossible. Instead, pick a couple of things you really want to do and anything else is a bonus. 

For me, I really wanted to visit Vatican City (because our last attempt was a flop) and also get the the opportunity to watch the sunset over the city from a spectacular view.  

However, before I did those, I discovered my first bonus: there is a way to take in a few more sights – albeit fleetingly – and in the most fun and unique way: on a vintage Fiat 500 tour. 

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Arriving just after lunch on a Tuesday afternoon, from the second I set eyes on my car for the two-hour trip – a cute little bright pink one – I just knew it was going to be fun. As two of us squeezed in alongside our driver, ahead and behind us were a fleet of identikit cars also doing the tour and we soon became a rainbow of teeny tiny classic Fiat’s tearing through the streets.

Windows and roof down, the smell of petrol and the sound of the traffic all around us only added to the adventure, as we weaved in and out of the lanes, with our incredibly streetsmart driver, answering any question we had. 

Stopping outside tourist favourites such as the Colosseum and the Aventine Keyhole for a quick picture and potted history, everywhere we went people waved and smiled as they saw our magical little cars zip in front of their eyes. In the back – for those who like a bit of a dress up – were oversized sunglasses, plastic Roman solider helmets and mickey mouse ears, anything that could help make it even more of a photo-opp.

As we stood atop the Janiculum Hill – the city’s second highest, but said to give the most amazing views – our guide told us about the rich history of the landscape below.

Then, there was another stop to find out all about Europe’s only remaining pyramid, the Pyramid of Cestius. Each story was told with such gusto, it was like having the best history lesson ever. 

The tour lasted a couple of hours before we came to our final stop and it was time to catch the sunset over the city.

Two bars to recommend for this is Charlie’s, a rooftop terrace at the beautiful  InterContinental Ambasciatori hotel where we stayed, and also The Edition, a classy hotel just five minutes walk away, which serves Soho House vibes with it’s small rooftop pool and sleek furniture and interiors.

With glass of fizz in hand and the warm cool breeze comfortably around our shoulders, it was a pinch-me moment. Unlike London or New York, there aren’t swatthes of huge skyscrapers here to dominate the skyline, as Rome is said to have a building regulation whereby no building can be taller than St Peter’s churchtop.

This means you can gaze at beautiful domes galore – including the iconic Pantheon in the distance – and take in the streets that stretch out across the city and the greenery that surrounds it all. It was the perfect end to a very fun day.

Early the next morning we had a real treat in store. A private tour of the Vatican Museums. Be warned, this is not budget friendly – at €5,000 plus entry ticket, guide and max 20 people, it comes in at least £200 per person.  

However, 6am wake up call aside, it’s an unforgettable experience. The first – and only visitors – to this historical building, on this special tour you get to unlock every door, switch on lights and see this immense collection of art amassed by the popes from the seventeenth century onwards, away from the bustling crowds, queues and noise.

Plus you get your own guide to give you a tour and answer all your burning questions, and breakfast thrown in after. 

As the lights were flicked on, brightness flooded space after space – which was always greeted with a gasp of awe. None more so that the epic Sistine Chapel. To see this glorious fresco created by Michelangelo away from the throngs was a true privilege.

Of course, there is a way to explore the Vatican Museums without shelling out – but the queues can be immense. By the time we came out they were already snaking down the street. I’ve been told however, that the best way to avoid them is to book a group tour , which often includes queue-skipping in the much more reasonable price tag.

Then came another ittle bonus – as we headed to Vatican Square to look at St. Peter’s Basilica we could hear voices over a loud speaker and crowds gathering. There was a short but quick queue to get through security, and – yes, you’ve guessed it, the Pope was in the house!

It was a lovely end to a sunrise start, especially given that last time I attempted to visit it was the end of the day and we nearly missed our transport home.

Your Daily Horoscope

What does the week have in store? Your tarot horoscope reading for July 1 to July 7

As I finally boarded my BA flight home – on one of the first of their new A321neo aircrafts , no less – I had a huge smile on my face, a phone full of photo-memories and the words ‘less is definitely more’ ringing in my ears.

Everything you need to know...

The cheapest month to fly to Rome is usually January. April or October are also great options if you’re looking to save money and enjoy sunny weather. To find the cheapest flights to Rome, search BA’s low fare finder .

British Airways Holidays offers two nights, at the 5* InterContinental Hotels Rome Ambasciatori Palace , from £439pp, travelling on selected dates between 1 January – 31 January 2025 inclusive. Includes economy (Euro Traveller) return flights from London Heathrow Airport, 1 checked bag at 23kg per person and accommodation. For reservations visit www.ba.com/rome or call 0344 493 0125. 

A guided sightseeing tour in a Fiat 500 is from €290 for two people. For more information click here .

The private early morning tour of the Vatican Museums was €5,000 plus entry ticket, guide and breakfast (max 20 people). The general admission Vatican Museums tickets start from €20 per adult. For further details, click here .

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London to Rome Quest | Start London | Summer | 2025

16 Days Starting in London and ending in Rome

Visiting: London, Dover, Calais, Paris, Bordeaux, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, San Sebastián, Zaragoza, Barcelona, French Riviera, Monaco City, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence, Sorrento, Capri, Pompeii, Rome, Vatican City

Tour operator:

Recommended for:.

18-30 somethings

NB: Prices correct on 30-Jun-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour overview.

France, Spain and Italy - a trio like no other. 16 days in perhaps the most alluring region of Europe will have you feeling right at home. Wine regions, boats to small islands and 9 World Heritage Sites will leave you hands down smitten.

4 Dinner (D)

15 Breakfast (B)

Dover: See the iconic chalk-white coastline. So special that it’s had songs dedicated to it.

Paris: Take a dreamy jaunt around the city of romance. Fall in love with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Champs-Élysées and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Bordeaux: Stroll around this chic metropolis to see the Palais de la Bourse and downtown Bordeaux. Then make time for a nice glass of red by the river.

Barcelona: We’ll check out the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s world-renowned masterpiece. Work began on the church in the 1880s and while it was technically never finished, it’s still a wonder to behold.

Barcelona: Combat boots at the ready, folks! Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas are so cool, you won’t know what to photograph first!

French Riviera: Glide through the winding coastal roads of the French Riviera with your Contiki crew.

Monaco City: Walk in the footsteps of Grace Kelly at the Royal Palace and see the Monte Carlo Casino (where the car park looks like a Fast & Furious set).

Cinque Terre National Park: We’ll take care of your rail pass, so you can just zip around the iconic clifftop villages and focus on the Insta stories.

Pisa: Your ultimate chance to ‘hold the tower up’ as you pose for that classic Insta snap.

Amalfi Coast: Definitely one for the bucket list. Your chance to view one of Europe’s active volcanoes from a distance.

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

Not what you're looking for?

People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:

Day 1: London To Paris

Location: london, dover, calais, paris, accommodation: jo&joe gentilly (or similar), meals included: dinner.

Welcome to the first day of the best holiday of your life - we're calling it early! After a few pleasantries in London we'll get the show on the road with Paris in our sights. A few hours in and your jaws are on the floor already. These chalk cliffs that edge the English coastline are known as the White Cliffs of Dover, the first of many natural beauties we'll see on this trip. After we ferry across the English Channel for France we'll arrive in Calais, where we will take in the history of World War I battlefields in the Valley of the Somme. Kicking off night one, we arrive in none other than the lust-worthy Paris! It's straight down to business with a tour of the city lit up by the lights of night.

Day 2: Paris

Location: paris, meals included: breakfast.

Drool over haute couture you can't afford, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral whilst juggling coffee and crêpes, & get artsy at the Louvre. Just don't wear yourself out, you will probably want to get involved with dinner and a cabaret show. Smitten and it's only day two!

Day 3: Paris To Bordeaux

Location: paris, bordeaux, accommodation: ibis budget bordeaux centre meriadeck (or similar).

Wipe away your tears sad travellers! Paris is not going anywhere, you can always come back and visit her again. You, on the other hand, are going somewhere, and it's somewhere pretty magnificent... Wise folk tell us that wine has been produced in Bordeaux since the 1st Century - that's a long time, which means they know what they're doing. And it's not just the vin that has dragged us here, it's a pretty place to boot featuring its famous Miroir d'eau (water mirror).

Day 4: Bordeaux To San Sebastian

Location: bordeaux, saint-jean-de-luz, san sebastián, accommodation: koisi hostel (or similar).

Breathe in your last breath of Bordeaux before we hit the road in search of the Spanish border. In just a few short hours we'll be exploring San Sebastian. Our stop will have you people watching in this cute little town on the French and Spanish border. With two nights in Spain's coastal town of San Sebastian, it will be hard to wipe the smiles off our faces. Take a walk to the aquarium where you can get a closer look at Isla de Santa Clara. The night is yours.

Day 5: San Sebastian

Location: san sebastián, meals included: breakfast, dinner.

We'll be dropping lots of delicious sounding words today as we explore Parte Vieja, Playa de la Concha and Centro Romántico. Say it again: Romántico! Follow the cobblestone roads & soak up San Sebastian's coastline.

Day 6: San Sebastian To Barcelona

Location: san sebastián, zaragoza, barcelona, accommodation: generator barcelona (or similar).

Having settled into life with afternoon siestas, today will only be a departure from San Sebastian, don't worry leaving Spain is not on the agenda. Sigh with relief.  This town comes complete with a baroque Basilica, a perfect combination of Islamic and Gothic architecture and truly a sight to behold. Hola Barcelona...The first dose of Mediterranean Sea! That's if you can drag yourself away from the intoxicating city & get to the beach. Unique gothic architecture, round the clock parties & plenty of street life will leave you spellbound by Barcelona.

Day 7: Barcelona

Location: barcelona.

They say this sexy city sizzles and we couldn't agree more. For a taste of what you can do, here's just a start of the never-ending list. Channel Gaudi at Sagrada Familia, his greatest masterpiece, started in 1882. This labour of love is still not compete, but is one for the Instagram upload for sure. Parc Guell could be next on the list, followed by the beach, and of course taking to the backstreets for some endless tapas and paella. Washed down with sangria of course.

Day 8: Barcelona To French Riviera

Location: barcelona, french riviera, accommodation: villa saint exupery beach (or similar).

As smitten as we are by Barcelona, we have more of Europe to conquer. Much, much more...  You're not a real celebrity until you've frolicked on the French Riviera, and who are we to keep you off the A-List? Discover sapphire waters & endless glamour as we roll along this glitzy coastline.

Day 9: French Riviera

Location: french riviera, monaco city, french riviera.

Missing an opportunity to see this part of the world up close and personal would be criminal. Speaking of things you shouldn't miss, this region is famous for lavender honey, aioli & rosé wine; all 3 in one meal should be your mission.  Please tell us you didn't throw away all of your pennies on perfume today? Because you're going to want a few spare coins tonight so you can play fancy. We're visiting the Monte Carlo Casino & the Royal Palace in Monaco.   After a night on the blackjack table it's back to the coast and to bed, the next part of the adventure starts tomorrow.

Day 10: French Riviera To Cinque Terre

Location: french riviera, cinque terre, accommodation: b&b hotel (or similar).

Having exhausted all our hilarious Nice puns, we'll head south in search of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Cinque Terre. Welcome to Cinque Terre, the sexiest collection of fishing villages on the planet. Armed with your rail pass, spend the day absorbing the dramatic beauty of this place, but we suggest you get out for a hike, a food crawl, some vino or all of the above.

Day 11: Cinque Terre To Florence

Location: cinque terre, pisa, florence, accommodation: a conveniently located hostel.

Have an extra coffee before we make tracks this morning, the extra energy hit will serve you well as we're gallivanting around Italy swooping from one wow moment to another. As if we were going to leg it to Florence without a sneaky side trip to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Depriving you of the chance to perfect the holding-up-the-tower shot would be down right criminal.  Explore the city's markets complete with gelato in hand; marvel at artworks from the likes of legends like Michelangelo; and be impressed by the skilful art of leather at an included demonstration. These are the sorts of activities likely to fill your Florence agenda.

Day 12: Florence To Sorrento

Location: florence, sorrento, accommodation: sisters hostel (or similar).

After farewell-ing Florence this morning we will journey along the boot of Italy until we reach the globally adored town of Sorrento for some blissed out coast hangs.  "So so so so in love with Sorrento" are about the only words you'll muster up tonight as you sit seaside watching the sunset in this town of beauty.

Day 13: Sorrento

Location: sorrento, capri, sorrento.

It simply wouldn't be a trip to Sorrento without a side note to... We'll head over to the island of Capri for the day. With its gorgeous cragged coastline and opulent cafes, it's easy to see why this is such a playground for the rich and famous. If you'd like to spend some time on the water, opt for a cruise, with swim stops & great views of the coastline. Back in Sorrento, we'll stroll along the plunging cliffs, explore the impossibly pretty historical centre and taste some local gnocchi.

Day 14: Sorrento To Rome

Location: sorrento, pompeii, rome, accommodation: the yellow (or similar).

Another glorious Italian day awaits us. Iconic sites and ancient history will keep our jaws at floor level until our heads hit our pillows. After less than an hour gazing lovingly out of our windows at the Amalfi Coast, it will be time for a stop. Here in the ancient city of Pompeii you will have the chance to partake in a guided walking tour taking in Roman city remains. Today's roadtrip beauty is never-ending as we take in the volcanic beauty of Mt. Vesuvius en route to Rome. On arrival in the open time capsule that is Italy's capital, your Trip Manager will get you straight into the sightseeing. The Roman Forum and Colosseum can both be ticked off your list should you be in the mood for a little history.

Day 15: Rome

Location: rome.

Rome wasn't built in a day - so get up and get going early to make the most of this ancient city an hit the streets for your own discoveries. Snap pink azaleas by the Colosseum, throw coins in fountains and sip espresso in a pretty street watching Italian life float by.

Day 16: End Rome

The best 2 weeks of your life has come to an end - you have our complete sympathy. If anyone understands the pain of ended travels, it's us (and your new Contiki collective). Hug it out after breakfast & make plans to reunite outside of Rome.

Check out our Q&As

How long has the tour company been trading.

In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

What policies are in place for Covid-19?

Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

What ethical travel credentials does the tour company have.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

What documents will I receive before I travel?

All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Northern choice plus kaikoura.

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Exceptional customer service

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

My amazing trip to Africa

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

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2 Finding available rooms...

What are travellers saying about tourhub.

Excellent tour company with quick service and support. We loved that there is 100% refund if you had to change anything as long as your within certain time limits. A very professional company with a huge selection of different tours and several dates to choose from.

The staff at TourHub were very responsive to all of my questions and more! They provided me with all the information I needed to book our trip in a very short period of time. I am very impressed with this company and looking forward to our tour in 2025!

I have never been much of a tour person, but this company offers so many options! I love the fact that they consolidate many options so that you have all the adventures in one location.

Customer service was prompt in responding to any questions I had, and offering suggestions on tour options. Looking forward to our adventure in September!

I love that each destination and hotel accommodation is listed. Makes planning or even deciding to take the trip so much easier. Each time I emailed a question, I got a response right away. So far, I'm very impressed and looking forward to the trip that we booked for next year.

I just heard about tourhub. What a fantastic collection of holidays. I booked a holiday to Morocco and had a few questions, for which I received prompt and useful responses. Would highly recommend

Book with Confidence

Transfer as credit to future tours.

Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.

Low Deposit

Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

Cancellation Policy

We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.

Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.

At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Terms and Conditions

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Fête des Lumières 2024: Your guide to Lyon’s stunning Festival of Lights

By Nick Roberts

Senior editor for six-two, Nick mainly spends his time watching live sport, eating his way through London restaurants, browsing brewery merch and researching his next European city break.

Published on Jun 28, 2024 | 4 min

We’re all pretty attracted to bright, shiny things right? So what better way to unleash our inner magpie and spend a few early December evenings than heading to the city of Lyon to see the Fête des lumières (or Festival of Lights).

Wander around and drink in all the art installations and light shows which are projected onto the beautiful old buildings dotted around the city centre. And the best thing? It’s free. 

This year, it takes place between Thursday 5th and Sunday 8th December, so get planning to ensure you get your fix of the prettiest lights you may ever see.

European Wanderer

What is La Fête des Lumières?

Well, the festival’s roots go far, far back. We’re talking 17th century far back. In 1643, a plague hit the city and councillors stated that they’d pay tribute to the Virgin Mary if Lyon was saved.

After that, every year on the 8th of December, there was a procession up to the main cathedral called the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière (Basilica of Fourvière) to light candles for Mary, while others did the same in their homes.

And in 1852, after a storm nearly cancelled the yearly celebrations, the skies cleared and Lyon residents lit flares and fireworks to illuminate the statue of the Virgin Mary on the hilltop outside the cathedral.

Following that, these celebrations morphed into what they are today: four days of lights and festivities around 8th December.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visages du Monde (@visagesdumondevoyages)

What can I expect to see?

Well here are the light installations from 2023 for all your twinkly needs. 

Lots of what you can see are super intricate light projection shows, but you’ll also get sculpture installations too, which basically means you’re going to a huge outdoor modern art museum for free.

At the Parc de la Tête d’Or, there are often brand new sculptures – last year, you would have seen the Rose Family, a huge group of cute looking pink cartoony figures. The viewing was accompanied by a bespoke soundtrack by the Radio France Philharmonic Orchestra echoing in the background, adding to the grandeur of the festivities. 

Rome to London Wanderer

Where should I eat and drink?

Lyon is known as France’s capital of gastronomy, and this is exceptionally high praise coming from the world capital of gastronomy! But the title is given with good reason – Lyon’s historically meaty cuisine which focuses on nose-to-tail eating is banging. But if you aren’t a meat eater, or you’re not feeling a healthy dose of offal, there’s a pretty decent selection of different restaurants for various dietary requirements.

Top tip: steer clear of Vieux Lyon if you want a cheaper dinner – the UNESCO listed quarter of the city is gorgeous so visitors to the festival pile in here, but restauranteurs know this, and hike up the prices. The food is delicious here but there are also so many options around the city with smaller crowds.

In terms of drinks, if you’re on the move looking at the different light shows around the city, you’ll see lots of street vendors selling vin chaud, or mulled wine in English. It’s warming, tasty and typically well priced.

Or stop off at one of the small chain of bars unique to Lyon called Ninkasi where they have a range of their own beers they brew, plus signature spirits and soft drinks.

Image source: Andréas Brun / unsplash

Where should I stay?

The festival attracts millions of visitors every year so accommodation ain’t the cheapest at this time. It’s good to book as early as possible and have a think about not necessarily staying in the most central location. Public transport is pretty damn good in Lyon with trains, metro, trams and buses, and the festival typically finishes at 10PM or 11PM so you don’t have to worry about missing the last metro back if you stay a little further out.

That being said, there is another way to have your accommodation handled… Join our European Wanderer or London to Rome Wanderer trips departing on 3rd December, and you’ll be in Lyon on 7th December, with your hotel sorted so you can enjoy all the festival has to offer on the Saturday night! Oh, and with an expert Trip Manager who will give you all the reccos you could ever need.

What are the best things to do in Lyon?

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