Play & Pause: Epic European

Rise and shine! We’re hitting the road early to jump across the Channel. The home of Coco Chanel, the Mona Lisa and the world’s best pastries – Paris deserves its rep as the European capital for all things haute couture, culture and drool-worthy food. Get to know the City of Lights better with a drive around the must-sees. And for dinner? The choice is yours, but your Trip Leader’s got all the hot tips – just ask. Bon appétit!

This is your day to simply do you. Create a solid dent in your bucket list with a visit to the Louvre (book your tickets in advance!) and the Musée d'Orsay. Hunt down the best patisseries in town (ask your Trip Leader for recommendations). Get lost amongst the shelves of history at Shakespeare and Co. Bookshop. Flash some plastic along the Champs Elysées. Or inject some feel-good vibes at the I Love You Wall. Not a walker? Work those thighs on an optional bike tour. Or get an alternate view of the City of Love with a river cruise down the Seine. Tonight, go all-out with an optional evening at the cabaret. Think: bright lights, OTT costumes and death-defying acrobatics.

Don’t drink your vino out of a cask? You’re gonna love our next stop. Glue your nose to the window and watch rows of centuries-old grapevines rush past as we make our way through the Loire Valley. First stop? The ultra-boujee Château de Chambord. Supposedly designed by Leonardo da Vinci himself – if you want, there’s time to explore the 60 opulently decorated rooms, surrounding gardens (as big as inner-city Paris) and climb the mind-boggling double helix staircase. This place will have you feeling like French royalty (minus the ridiculous hairstyles). Later, we’ll make tracks to Bordeaux and get the run around this 1200-year-old city with our expert Trip Leader. Then, the rest is up to you. Our suggestion? Buy some local cheese, a bottle of the good stuff and picnic like a true Frenchman. Just make sure you leave room for desert – you’re going to want to try a canelé (can-eh-lay). Trust us.

It’s always wine o’clock at the Château du Taillan winery, mon ami. Get to know the owners, tour the rustic cellar and practise your best tasting face as you learn your A-B-Cabernets of good wine. Then: we’ll set our sights on Carcassonne. If you’ve ever played the board game, you’ll know that the walled citadel of Carcassonne is as medieval as it gets. Get your bearings on a stroll with your Trip Leader – ticking off the Château Comtal, Basilica of Saints Nazarius and fortifications of the ancient city. Tonight, we’ll rendezvous back at the hotel for a group dinner. This day in one word? Extraordinaire.

We’ll roll through the scenic Pyrenees mountain range today – with a quick stop in Andorra. Fun fact: this country is only about 40 km drive from one side to the other. Onwards to the capital of Catalonia! Bienvenidos (welcome) to the city of art nouveau, sexy accents and mouth-watering tapas. Get a feel for Barça on a driving tour – ticking off the likes of Olympic Park, Plaça d'Espanya, the National Museum and Montjuïc Hill. Then: quiz your Trip Leader on where to find the best paella (pah-AY-yuh) for dinner.

Time to do your own spontaneous-this-is-what-I-came-for thing, amigos. But if you need some suggestions, we’ve got your back. Park Güell and Sagrada Familia are straight-up must-sees. BUT don’t think you can just stroll up in there – you’re gonna’ need to book tix online first. Then: explore the craziness that is Las Ramblas, head into the National Museum for an education in over a thousand years of art or get lost amongst the maze of winding alleys in the Gothic Quarter. Lose yourself, find yourself, then grab a beer at Els Quatre Gats. Need some time out from all the adventuring? Head to Barceloneta Beach for a swim. Later, there’s an optional show on the cards at the oldest flamenco tablaos in Barcelona.

Start practising your bonjours and s’il vous plaît’s – they’ll come in handy with the locals. Trust us. Today, we’re following the Mediterranean coast to Nice, the capital of the glamorous French Riviera. Get the run about town with our in-the-know Trip Leader before having the rest of the afternoon to do you! Indulge in a bit of celeb spotting. Head to the beach for a dip. Or find a local haunt for some seriously good seafood. Tonight, sit back and enjoy those relaxed coastal vibes. This is what you came for.

Free day = your chance to do exactly what you want. Laze on a sun lounger at Blue Beach. Go wild in the designer boutiques in Nice's Old Town. Or trek up Castle Hill for allll the views. The choice is yours. Later: we’ll turn it up a notch with a visit to Monaco. Home of the Grand Prix and the Monte Carlo Casino, we’ll see how the 1% live on a walking tour (hint: it involves Ferraris and bathing in caviar). Then, ogle at the superyachts and their perfectly manicured owners along the waterfront. Or hit the tables and make it rain (or not).

If the Swiss Alps had a Tinder bio it would read: fun-filled outdoor enthusiast – looking for a fellow adrenaline junkie to share adventures with. Swiping right? Hell yes. Warm up those vocal cords, we’ll be busting out some bangers on the ride through Provence into the mountains. Cue the fairytale villages of your imagination – the oh-so-quaint Engelberg will be our base for the next two nights. Later, we’ll get stuck into a group dinner before heading to the hotel bar or relaxing in the fresh alpine air.

This is your day. So, enjoy it your way. Hiking. Biking. Thrill-seeking. It’s all here. You could take the revolving gondola to the top of Mt Titlis for all the epic views (without the effort). Or slip on your Birks and head into town in search of the world's best hot chocolate and cheese fondue – unless you’re lactose intolerant (obvs). Whatever you choose, you’re going to have views for days. After grabbing dinner, chill back at your pad or hit the town with the gang. The choice is alllll yours.

Buy that mini-fondue set for mum and wave goodbye to the Alps – we’re heading to that famous sinking city today. After checking in at the hotel, it’s time to see what all the fuss is about. Acquaint yourself with the who's who of Venice's usual suspects on a walking tour – ticking off the likes of St Mark's Square, Doge’s Palace and Accademia Bridge. And then – this beautifully romantic city is yours for the taking. Our suggestion? Enjoy a spritz overlooking one of Venice’s fuchsia-pink sunsets. Or hunt down a hidden gem for a delicious carb-laden Italian meal. What are you going to try first? Order two.

Time to see what all the fuss is about. Centuries-old architecture. Inventive cuisine. And a bucket-load of culture. Venice is just begging to be explored. After an included gondola ride along the Grand Canal, you’ve got the whole day to do just that. Need suggestions? Insider tip: spend some time seeking out the out-of-this-world Libreria Acqua Alta bookshop or head off the tourist trail with a trip to Giudecca Island. Or forget all the above and hunt down the perfect gelato. Go wandering. Chat to the locals. Get lost in the maze of canals and piazzas. Watch the sun go down with the gang. That’s what makes the memories.

Onwards! We’re rolling on to the capital of Tuscan cuisine and birthplace of gelato. But first: Pisa. If you’re gonna take THAT photo, think of something unique. Please. Before dinner tonight, take a stroll along the Arno River at sunset for those this-is-what-I-came-for-vibes. Then: did someone say karaoke? If you’re up for it, join the gang in a battle of the classics at a local bar. Or hunt down a gelateria for a scoop (or two) of the good stuff. What’ll it be? Salted caramel? Lavender? White chocolate? Cinnamon? Must. Try. Them. ALL.

Florence has more story lines than Game of Thrones, more culture than a Fitzroy hipster AND it gave the world David. Delve deeper into this incredible city on a walking tour with a local guide. Later, bella Roma is calling our name. Once we arrive, prepare yourself for a walking tour to end all walking tours. We’re talking a solid few hours of non-stop sights, off-the-tourist-trail hidden gems and a run-down of almost 3000 years of history. We’ll pass by the Pantheon, throw our two cents in the Trevi Fountain, (won’t) sit on the Spanish Steps and wind things up under the shadow of the mighty Colosseum. Epic doesn’t even cut it. Tonight, you’re in Disneyland for foodies – go get it.

You’ve read Eat. Pray. Love. (or been made to watch the movie) – now, it’s time to make like Julia Roberts and put this city to the test. You have 48 hours of freedom to explore. Count your blessings on an optional tour of Vatican City, then play ‘I-spy’ with two-and-a-half millennia worth of history. Head up Capitoline Hill for awesome views. Grab a bite at Lost Food Factory (arguably one of the best sandwich spots in town). Or do as the locals do and indulge in a little dolce far niente (delicious idleness) at a local cafe or piazza. Tonight, shake out those fat pants for round two. Ask your Trip Leader where to find the best cacio e pepe – trust us, you won’t be disappointed.

Vespas. Espresso. Two-cheek kisses. Aggressive hand gestures. And pizza the way it's supposed to taste. Here’s another free day we prepared earlier. Don’t just skim the surface, experience every moment to the fullest. History buffs should arrange a day trip to Pompeii. Or head to the Knights of Malta Keyhole to see an alternative view of the city. Battle the lunchtime rush for a slice at Pizzarium Bonci. Shop till you drop on Via Condotti. Take some time to relax with a picnic at Villa Borghese Park. Thought you’d tried all the gelato flavours? Head to Fatamorgana – and think again.

Truth bomb alert: you’ve got a bit of a travel day today. We’ll head from Rome to Ancona (where we’ll swap the coach for a ferry). On board you’ll have a cabin with an en suite for the ride. Plus, you’ve got your awesome trip mates to swap tales of the adventure so far. Make the most of the down time – relax, refresh and recharge those batteries. And when you wake up? You’re in Greece – heck, yes! Please note: single cabins aren’t available on the overnight ferry. You’ll be sharing a cabin with up to 3 trip mates of the same gender.

Home to a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, a medieval fortress and more sun-bleached beaches than you can shake a snorkel at – welcome to Corfu! Thanks to its former Byzantine and Venetian occupiers, this place has a distinct and unique culture from mainland Greece. You’re gonna love it. Dinner tonight is sorted so sit back and enjoy the view.

Swim. Souvlaki. Siesta. Swim again. Today is 100% up to you. Have you checked out the Old Town yet? Wander the narrow streets in search a local haunt serving up loukoumades (Greek donuts) or the best frozen yogurt you’ve ever had. Sugar rush? Head up to the fortress for panoramic views over the town. Tonight, dinner is up to you. Find a local tavern and get stuck into some mouth-watering Corfiot cuisine. Unique and delicious – you can’t go wrong.

You’ve got another 24 hrs to soak up as much of this island paradise as you can. So what’ll it be? For €2.50, a local fisherman will boat you over to the tiny island of Pontikonisi (aka Mouse Island). Enjoy the serenity, visit the church and pull up a pew at the cafe. Or go west and hit up Palaiokastritsa for beaches so remote they’re almost private. This is your last night here, so gather the gang for gyros and sunset bíras on the beachfront. These are the take-your-breath-away moments you’ve been waiting for.

What happens when you paint a former communist capital in vivid colours? According to Tirana's artist-turned-mayor-turned-TED speaker Edi Rama, people start paying taxes and crime rates plummet. True story. Once we roll into Albania’s unique capital, say hello to our local guide before we tick off the main sights on a driving tour. Then: make sure you check out the crazy number of old bunkers here. Tonight, we’ll quiz each other’s newfound historical knowledge at dinner.

Press your nose to the window and soak up all the stunning views racing past the coach window as we make our way to the most famous walled city in Europe. But first: a quick stop in Budva – the ‘Miami of Montenegro’. Three countries in one day? Only with us. This afternoon, we’ll take a wander around Dubrovnik's tiny cobblestone streets with a local guide – before tucking into dinner at a local haunt. Later: gather the gang and hit the d-floor at a nightclub in a 16th-century fortress. Or grab some R&R back at the hotel. You do you.

Don’t be fooled. Dubrovnik is so much more than snapping a selfie on some steps. Although, you can totally get your fill of GOT with a Cersei-themed tour if that’s your thing. Rather take to the water? Sign up to a sea kayaking excursion – swim stops at the island of Lokrum included. Get your fix of awesome views with a stroll along the ancient city walls or take the cable car up Mt Srd. Later, you can head to Buža Bar for relaxed cliffside bevvies at sunset. Or find a local wine bar to sample Croatia’s delicious grape-juice. Have you tried peka yet? Go. Now.

Ready for something a bit... quirky? It’s called the Sea Organ. And we’ll check out this unique art installation – along with the Zadar’s eclectic mix of Roman ruins and public art on a whip around town with our Trip Leader. Bearings established, the rest of the day is yours for the taking. Explore the Old Town, check out the city walls or sit back with a cold beverage at the Garden Lounge. 100% up to you.

Today we’re plugging Ljubljana into the GPS. Try pronouncing it, we dare you. After a quick stroll around the Old Town, head out and explore! The castle has been waiting for you since Celtic times – so don’t keep it hanging any longer. Or see the city come alive on an optional food tour. Tonight, hit the town for a vino with a side of live music or dance the night away with the locals at Metelkova Art Center.

Our Ljubljana love affair was short but oh-so-sweet. Up next? The twin cities of Buda and Pest. See why they call this place the City of Bridges, as we’re chauffeured past the Chain Bridge, Castle District, Gellert Hotel, Heroes’ Square and House of Terror on a driving tour. SD cards full and tummies grumbling, it’s time to go one step further with an included dinner cruise down the Danube – Buda Castle and House of Parliament look even better lit up like Christmas. Trust us.

You wanted freedom to explore – here it is. Check out the Central Market Hall. Explore the Jewish Quarter. Play pinball at the Flippermúzeum. Get a harrowing education at the House of Terrors. Hunt down the Anonymous Statue. Soak in the therapeutic waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Baths. Head to Buda Castle and check out all the views from Fisherman’s Bastion. Get stuck into some local fare: goulash, chicken paprikash, langos, dobos cake. Hopefully you like paprika, they’re kinda obsessed with it here. Tonight, hang with the hipsters and drink pálinka (fruit brandy) at one of the original ruin bars. Maybe even sample a pickled carrot or two (random? yep, but they’re a thing).

Wave goodbye to Budapest, we’re heading to Austria. Ten points if you can guess what Vienna is famous for. Musicians. Grand coffee houses. And strudel (duh!). Prepare to have your heart captured as we drive by the likes of the Opera House, Hofburg Palace, Museum Quarter and Ringstrasse. We’ll have a poke around Princess Sissi’s opulent gardens at the Schönbrunn Palace – with enough time to check out her extravagant decorating too, if you fancy it. Then: the afternoon is yours. Explore the Museum Quarter in depth. Head to Cafe Central for the most boujee afternoon tea you’ve ever had. Or enjoy the sweet sounds of Mozart and Bach played by a Viennese orchestra at an optional concert. Look at you, so cultured.

Onwards to the spire-filled skyline and mysterious streets of Prague! But first: a visit to former concentration camp Mauthausen for a lesson in the resilience of humanity. Dump your bag at the hotel, before getting better acquainted with this picture-perfect city (complete with quirky clock tower) on a walking tour. Your expert Trip Leader will point out all the must-dos for tomorrow as we go. After dinner, you can hit the town to try some local Czech beer or sample a cocktail at The Alchemist. An old-school venue, with a 1950s’ vibe. Hint: if you want the full experience, ask for the 'choose your fate' – we'll see you in the morning.

That’s right folks – it’s your day, your way. So get out there and do your own spontaneous this-is-what-I-came-for thing. Check out the John Lennon wall. Soak up some history at the Communist Museum. Take the funicular up Petrin Hill for allll the views. Or grab a delish roast pork roll at one of the street vendors lining Old Town Square. Fancy yourself as a bit of a hops connoisseur? Don’t miss the beer tasting optional this afternoon. Czech beers + tapas = good times guaranteed. And then? Wander the cobbled streets, catch a smooooth jazz performance on Charles Bridge, or kick back at your digs and let it all sink in.

Next up? A country where beer is officially considered an essential food group (right next to sausage and sauerkraut). Helloooo Germany! We’ll get acquainted with 800 year-old Dresden on the way. Then: Prep yourself for currywurst and more hipsters per capita than anywhere else. We'll drive you around to see the main sights including (what's left of) the Berlin Wall, the Reichstag, Checkpoint Charlie and Brandenburg Gate. After our group dinner, see if this city’s nightlife really lives up to the hype. Or just relax on a sunny terrace with a bevvie or two – Germany is the OG of beer gardens, after all.

You’ve got 24 hrs of free time here – don’t muck around. Our advice? Opt in for a local walking tour that’s, you know – not boring. Or put that elastic waistband to the test on the ultimate Berlin food tour. Rather explore solo? Head to the Mauerpark markets for stalls filled with stuff you didn’t know you needed. Explore Museum Island. Take a ride in a Trabi and see why it’s Germany’s best-loved car. Or stop by the Tiergarten park for chill vibes (and naked sunbathing, if that’s your bag). Tonight, seek out Burgermeister. This place used to be a public toilet (ew) but now serves up the best burgers in Berlin. You know you wanna try it...

Ok, nobody panic – the adventure is coming to a close. But we’re sure as hell not done yet! We’ve got our eye on the one-and-only Amsterdam. Once we arrive, hit the cobblestones and explore the likes of Dam Square, the Royal Palace and the National Monument. This place is a foodie’s haven so you’ll have no issues finding somewhere to settle in for dinner. Give into temptation and grab a cone of hot chips with mayo. Mmm. Later, head to Proeflokaal Arendsnest for a selection of over 100 Dutch beers. Proost!

This is our last full day. FFS don’t hang about. Check out Amsterdam's iconic canals, bridges and parks on an optional bike tour. History buffs should pay a visit to the Anne Frank House (don’t forget to book in advance!). And for the culture fiends – the Van Gogh Musuem and Rijksmuseum. Or just get lost amongst backstreets of this city’s diverse districts – each one’s got a unique vibe and plenty to explore. Hint: head to Hannekes Boom for waterfront views, good food and all-round great vibes. Just make sure you’re back in time to toast the final night of our Euro getaway at tonight’s included dinner. What. A. Trip.

And just like that, it’s over. 36 days. 17 countries. And alllll the mems. After breakfast, we’ll make tracks back to London Town. Blast the Trip Song one last time – who’s up for a reunion trip next year?