Big European 2027

Touch down in London town: drop your bags and get ready to meet your new friends – the folks you’ll be sharing laughs, snacks and train journeys with over the next few weeks. 

Dinner’s on us: think classic British comfort food, big plates, warm welcomes and plenty of chatter to break the ice. Whether you’re a pie person or all about the veggie roast, you’re in for a proper feast. 

Later, your way: jet lag? No worries. Feel free to call it a night early and recharge. Or, if your energy’s still buzzing, slip out for a gentle stroll or something to drink nearby – the city’s got plenty of allure after dark. 

London fades, Paris dazzles: jump on the Eurostar and watch the UK countryside give way to rolling French fields – it’s just over two hours from St Pancras to Gare du Nord, but the atmosphere flips instantly with the language, the pastries and that unmistakable Parisian buzz. 

Picnic like a local: once you’ve dropped your bags, hit the markets to buy picnic essentials – a crusty baguette, creamy cheese and maybe something fizzy if you’re feeling fancy. Places like Paris come to life that little bit more with a snack in hand. 

Cruise with a backdrop: drift past the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame and all the iconic sights as the sun sets and the city lights start to twinkle. Paris sure knows how to roll out the red carpet. 

Morning on the move: start with an optional bike ride through quiet streets, hidden courtyards and tree-lined boulevards as Paris slowly wakes up. Not keen on cycling? No worries – grab a café crème and watch the city come alive at your own pace. 

Montmartre moments: this afternoon, join your Trip Leader for a stroll through the city’s most flamboyant neighbourhood. Expect buttery croissants, silky éclairs and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a nibble of escargot (that’s snails, for the curious). 

Rooftop wrap-up: end your day at Sacré-Cœur, soaking in sweeping views over Paris’s rooftops. Cameras ready – it’s a snapshot-worthy finish to a day well spent. 

Make the day yours: it’s a free day in Paris, and whether you’re chasing art, admiring architecture or simply hunting down your new favourite bread, the city’s got you covered. Climb the Eiffel Tower, peek at Notre-Dame, or get happily lost in the Louvre. No wrong moves here – just follow your curiosity. 

Take a royal detour: opt for a day trip to Versailles where golden gates, over-the-top gardens and tales of big egos and even bigger wigs come to life. Fit for a king – or at the very least your camera roll. 

Evening options aplenty: if you’re feeling glamorous, treat yourself to a cabaret show packed with feathers and sequins, and wash it down with something sparkling. Or keep it chill with a sunset walk and one last flaky pastry. Paris delivers, whatever mood you’re in. 

Bonjour, Bordeaux: after travelling by train to France’s wine capital, join your Trip Leader for a welcome walk around this elegant riverside city. Think grand boulevards, leafy squares, gothic spires and some of the most photogenic façades in France. Keep an eye out for the Miroir d’eau – the world’s largest reflecting pool – and the stunning Place de la Bourse. 

Wine o’clock: this afternoon, it’s time to toast your arrival with an included tasting session. You’re in one of the world’s top wine regions, after all. Expect bold reds, crisp whites, and a few new favourites to jot down so you can wow your friends back home with your chic wine know-how. 

Salut San Sebastián: after your train pulls in, stretch your legs with a walking tour led by your Trip Leader. Stroll through the atmospheric Old Town, where every lane leads to another pretty plaza or centuries-old church. And the main event? Food! Visit a few handpicked pintxos spots (just don’t call them tapas here unless you want to annoy the locals). Expect skewered anchovies, melt-in-your-mouth jamón, sizzling prawns and mini mountain-sized tortillas – all washed down with a cold txakoli (a slightly sparkling, very dry white wine) or a local soft drink.  

Laid-back San Sebastián: today is all yours to soak up the best of this seaside gem. Kick off with a morning stroll along La Concha Beach – stretch out on the golden sand, dip your toes in the waves, or watch the surfers slice through the Atlantic swell with effortless style. This afternoon, try a café stop for café con leche or a lazy browse through quirky boutiques and buzzing markets. Don’t miss the chance to wander the tree-lined Paseo de Francia, or snap some pics of the colourful boats bobbing in the harbor. 

Sunset magic at Peine del Viento: as the day winds down, make your way to the iconic Peine del Viento sculptures – where the sea meets art in a spectacular clash of wind and waves. It’s the spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon and close your day with a moment of pure Basque bliss. 

Time to meet Gaudi: swap morning train journeys for afternoon architecture with a visit to the legendary Sagrada Familia. With its soaring towers and kaleidoscopic windows, this fever dream is unlike anything you've seen before. Prepare to be amazed by Gaudí’s surreal and spiritual vision. 

End your day with a bang: if you're feeling inspired after all that sightseeing, join an optional flamenco show this evening. Expect foot-stomping, heart-pounding, castanet-clicking drama that brings a fiery finish to your day in Barcelona. Olé! 

Step into the heart of Barcelona: this morning, your Trip Leader will lead you through the winding maze of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter – a neighbourhood where even the cobbled alleys have juicy stories to spill. Expect hidden squares, towering cathedrals and centuries of secrets tucked behind shuttered windows. Keep your eyes peeled for the show-stopping Barcelona Cathedral and the moody charm of Plaça del Rei – this place wears its history well. 

Taste the soul of the city: next stop is Mercat de Santa Caterina, a rainbow of stalls packed with fresh local goodies. Dive into crispy croquettes, creamy manchego, melt-in-your-mouth jamón and salty olives – all the Catalan classics to keep you fuelled for a proper wander around this quirky neighbourhood.  

A new chapter begins: after a relaxing train journey, roll into Provence by late afternoon, greeted by golden fields and lavender breezes. Get to know the city on a walking tour with your Trip Leader and have dinner as a group. After, wander through sleepy streets, sip a(nother) chilled glass of rosé or just kick back and embrace that easy going joie de vivre (enjoyment of life, the French way). 

All aboard: this morning, hop on the train and coast your way to the glittering French Riviera. Watch the Provençal countryside melt into Mediterranean blues as you make your way to the coast – it's a journey worth window-gazing for. 

Riviera your way: after checking in, it’s time to choose your own coastal adventure. Fancy getting lost in the old town? Grab a gelato and follow your nose through winding lanes and pastel-hued buildings. More of a beach bum? Claim your spot on the pebbles, slip into something breezy and soak up that Côte d’Azur sparkle like a local (long enough to catch rays, but before your bum gets numb). 

Nice and easy: grab a frothy coffee, snag a buttery croissant and let your eyes feast on the glittering Mediterranean. Wander the Old Town’s candy-coloured streets, or flop by the sea and pretend you’re in a movie – your Riviera morning, your rules. 

Monaco magic: after a short journey with your Trip Leader, you’ll arrive in the playground of the rich and famous. Explore the yacht-filled harbour where luxury cars zip by, see the royal palace and pretend you’re rubbing elbows with Monaco’s elite. 

Later, your way: strut down the promenade like a local (or a movie star) as the Med gets its glam on for sunset. Stop at a cosy bistro tucked away in one of the city’s pretty side streets for socca (a traditional crêpe), salade niçoise or freshly caught seafood. It’s Riviera living at its tastiest. 

Italian scents: stop at Fragonards Perfumerie for a guided tour around the factory, seeing what magic goes into the layering of perfume. There’s also a chance to make your own signature scent during an optional workshop, too! 

Stretch your legs, Italian style: once our minicoach slows to a stop in La Spezia, the rest of the day is yours to explore. Wander up to Castello di San Giorgio for sweeping views and medieval magic, or take a seaside stroll along the palm-lined Passeggiata Costantino Morin – easing into la dolce vita never looked so good (in our opinion). 

Five villages, endless possibilities: today’s all about Cinque Terre – five postcard-perfect villages clinging to the cliffs of the Ligurian coast, and you’ve got a full day to explore them at your own pace. With your Cinque Terre pass in hand, you can hop between the villages by train or hit the scenic hiking trails if you're feeling adventurous (and ready to earn your next taste of something sweet). 

Each village has its own flavour: Riomaggiore’s colourful marina, Manarola’s dreamy sunsets, Vernazza’s picturesque piazza, Corniglia’s hilltop charm, and Monterosso’s sandy beach. Walk, snack, swim... Whatever your style, today’s about Cinque Terre casting its spell on you. 

Say ciao to the coast: hop on the train to Florence – a city that’s equal parts art, architecture and amore – where you have free time to get to know the city on your terms. 

Do as the Florentines do: whether you're in the mood for art, architecture or just really good carbs, Florence has you covered. Climb the stairs (if you’re feeling energetic) up to Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic views. Or wander through Piazza della Signoria and admire open-air sculptures like Michelangelo’s David (well, a very convincing copy). No day here is complete without a wood-fired slice of quattro formaggi pizza enjoyed in the late afternoon sunshine. 

Florence on foot (and by flavour): join a local guide for a walking tour through the city’s cobbled heart. Expect grand piazzas, marble masterpieces and secret spots only the locals know – with a pit stop at one of Florence’s most drool-worthy sandwich shops. Crusty bread, salty-sweet cured meats, truffle spreads and bold Tuscan flavours are all packed into glorious paninis. This isn’t just a snack; it’s a rite of passage. Try it like a true Florentine – standing in the street, sunshine on your face, dripping olive oil on your shoes (worth it). 

Later, your way: join the optional tipsy tour of Florence, where the drinks flow, cobbled streets wind and history lessons get better with every glass. 

Rome on the move: once you pull into the train station, join your Trip Leader for a lively welcome walk through the city’s iconic streets. The best part? Along the way, you’ll get to sample a couple of crispy, cheesy slices of authentic pizza Romana and finish on a sweet note with some creamy gelato. It’s a taste of Rome you won’t forget – sunshine, ancient history and deliciousness all rolled into one. 

Rome at your rhythm: today is all yours to soak up the Eternal City at your own pace – dodge the selfie sticks at the Trevi Fountain, join the lively buzz of people-watching at the Spanish Steps, gawp up at the Pantheon’s massive dome or wander through the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum. And remember, no sightseeing mission is complete without a panino oozing with mozzarella and slab of ricotta cake. Keen to see the Colosseum up close and personal? Join the guided tour and step into the arena where lions, gladiators and questionable loincloths once stole the spotlight. 

Pasta, please: this evening (or possibly just before lunch – check with your Trip Leader!), come together for a hands-on pasta class where you’ll learn to roll, shape and sauce like a true Roman chef. Bellissimo! 

Pick your Roman adventure: today’s your chance to dive into whatever tickles your fancy. For divine art and history, join an optional tour of the Vatican: part holy ground, part art overload, 100% worth craning your neck for. 

Bites over sights: opt for a Roman food tour to sample secret trattorias, sip on espresso where the locals do and discover why Roman cuisine is a love affair on a plate. 

Later, your way: when the sun sets, grab a bike and cruise the Tiber like a local night owl, go on a street art scavenger hunt and peruse the moonlit gardens of Villa Borghese. Rome after dark? Pure magic – and totally yours to own! 

One last roam in Rome: squeeze every second out of Italy’s capital this morning. Return to your favourite coffee shop. Go look at the Colosseum one last time. Or say goodbye to the local you met a couple nights ago. Ancona’s next. 

Capital to coast: hop on the train and head to open waters. The port city acts as your portal to Croatia but before you settle into your air seat on tonight’s overnight ferry, go for a wander and discover a lesser-known place you might not have come across if you didn’t join Big European. 

Spoiled in Split: after breakfast and dropping off your luggage at tonight’s hotel, there’s some free time to make Split yours. Hunt down relics of when Split was part of Ancient Greece. People watch locals go about daily life. Or sit and watch the Adriatic Sea ripple under the sun. 

Walk, talk and taste: this afternoon, join a local guide on a wander as they spill Split’s secrets. Then, tuck into some tasty Croatian dishes at a hand-picked local restaurant on us. Živjeli! 

Split, your way: you have the entire day to get to know Split on a deeper level like (or unlike, depending on your experience) a potential love interest. Explore local squares, discover your next sunbathing spot and make memories you can’t wait to tell the group chat. 

Things to do in Split: quick-fire recommendations include Diocletian’s Palace, Bačvice Beach and nearby islands like Brač. Get local tips from your expert Trip Leader on the ground, too. Foodwise: pašticada (slow-cooked beef in wine and herbs) or crni rižot (black risotto) are the must-eat bites. 

Meet Zadar: within a couple hours on the road, you’ll arrive at Zadar. Drop your bags, freshen up and meet your Trip Leader for a wander through the oldest inhabited town in Croatia. They’ll point out their best bits and share local stories. 

Later, your way: wander the cobbled streets of Old Town, get into your swimmers and jump off the pier with the group, eat some Dalmatian lamb or cured pork neck, and watch as the skies turn deep orange beside the musical Sea Organ. 

Fairytale views: swap glittering oceans for teal lakes this morning with a road trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park. Stroll along wooden-slat bridges at your own pace, passing cascading waterfalls, clusters of trees and pools of crystal-clear water. Your Trip Leader’s definitely got their favourite trail to recommend – just ask! 

Coach cruising: pile your breakfast plate before hopping onto the coach for a drive. Truth time, it’s a long one, so pop your headphones on, join the group Spotify jam and fall asleep to the changing scenery. 

Ciao Venezia: a new city in a new country means one thing: a fun wander with your in-the-know Trip Leader. Then, all aboard a gondola as a local steers you through the calming waterways, taking you closer to where the scents of classic Italian dishes waft. Ready to eat your included group dinner?! 

Dive into Venice’s quirky corners: get lost in the chaotic charm of Libreria Acqua Alta, where books spill out of bathtubs and gondolas. Wander through the story-soaked streets of the Jewish Ghetto, and swoon over the art, chandeliers and faded glamour of Ca’ Rezzonico. 

Islands of whimsy await: feeling adventurous? Head out to Murano and Burano islands, where you can watch master glassmakers at work and stroll through streets painted in every shade imaginable. It’s a colourful way to add some serious pizzaz to your last day in Venice. 

Interrail life: a new country’s on the horizon. But first, recline your seat on a train journey that gives you time to watch approximately three full length feature films. What’s on your list?  

First night in Germany: the entire first evening is yours to get to know Munich in your signature style. Whether you want to get lost in the cobbled streets or devour the chicken parmie’s long lost sibling – a German schnitzel – take your mates along for the mini adventure. 

Wake and wander: hit the cobbled streets of Munich for a walk around the city, ticking off bucket list sights and the stories behind them – as told by your Trip Leader and their fact-packed brain. Finish the tour at Viktualienmarkt for a bunch of Bavarian plates. Tastebuds: salivating.  

Later, your way: Munich’s your playground. Watch the Glockenspiel show (history x mechanics) at 5pm in Old Town. Trip inside one of the art galleries for more culture. Or hoard a couple of benches at a local beer garden with your mates. Don’t forget to order stacks of snack platters! 

Big city energy: where edgy street art, imperial grandeur and tear-inducing history hums through every neighbourhood. Whether you're chasing culture or currywurst, Berlin’s got something for everyone. Fancy diving deeper? Join an optional street art tour to uncover the city’s edgier, more colourful side.  

Tonight’s feast? Our treat: Berlin’s culinary scene is as bold as the city itself. You might find yourself tucking into a schnitzel the size of your head, diving into a plate of buttery käsespätzle (Germany’s answer to mac and cheese), or going classic with a tangy currywurst and crispy fries. Don’t skip dessert – a slice of apfelstrudel. Prost! 

Bites and sights ahead: kick off your Berlin adventure with a wartime-themed walking tour led by a local guide – with a tasty twist at the end. Expect to see the big sights and snack like a true Berliner. 

Afternoon adventures: the rest of the day is yours to explore. Wander, museum-hop or park yourself in a café and people-watch the Berlin way – laid-back, curious, and with a side of strong coffee. 

Reflect and roam: spend the morning visiting Sachsenhausen, a former concentration camp that serves as a powerful reminder of the city’s history, listening to the audio guide as you wander.  

Afternoon unwind: there’s time to meander through the streets, join an optional Berlin food tour to sample more local bites, hunt down a cosy café for a well-earned coffee or snag some tasty snacks to fuel your journey.  

Overnight rails: tonight, hop aboard the overnight train to Amsterdam. It’s a cosy, quirky ride – stash your snacks, find your couchette sleeping berth and drift off to sleep. 

Breakfast and bikes: fuel up with breakfast before hopping on a bike for a guided tour through Amsterdam’s iconic canals and lively streets. The ride wraps up at Albert Cuyp Market where your Trip Leader will scout classic Dutch treats. Think: raw herring, crispy kibbeling (battered chunks of fish) and fluffy poffertjes (Dutch pancakes). 

Later, your way: the afternoon’s yours to roam free or sweeten things up with an optional stroopwafel-making class – because what’s Amsterdam without its syrupy, chewy signature snack? Whether you’re exploring solo or indulging your sweet tooth with your new friends, the city’s magic is impossible to resist. 

Pick your perfect day: wander the halls of the Rijksmuseum, get inspired at the Moco or Van Gogh Museums or cycle your way through surrounding countryside. Whatever you planned to experience more of, Amsterdam’s got you covered. 

Raise a glass: when evening rolls around, your farewell feast is packed with Dutch delights that’ll have you saying proost all night long. After dinner, slip onto a dreamy canal cruise under twinkling lights and toast an incredible adventure before the curtain falls. 

Say goodbye to Dutch delights: hop on the Eurostar and zoom from Amsterdam’s charming streets to London’s buzzing heart. Kick back, relax and swap stories from an unforgettable trip! And if you don’t want the fun to be over just yet, there’s a host of things to do in London. Find activities on the Topdeck Travel app: Trips > Your Topdeck Experience > Your Options > Pre/Post Activities.