small group trips to europe

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Europe Small Group Tours

Tours come in all shapes and sizes, and a small group tour in Europe is just one of the many ways you can shape your own adventure with the help of trusted touring experts. Travel through Iceland , England , Germany and beyond and enjoy endless cultural experiences. Find here all the best small group tour companies .

250+ Europe small group tours with 13,603 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Best of Central Europe

Great Eastern European food, great local beer, and a variety of things to do for any type of interest.

Baltic Experience

We loved the whole itinerary. No other way it seems at this point.

Zagreb to Athens: Adriatic & Ancient Capitals

A great fast-paced tour that was well led by our wonderful guide Ivan!

Absolute Turkey

The trip was busy but I would not change anything. The hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia should not be missed.

Tour from Athens to Dubrovnik or Split: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

You made our trip so much better than it would have been on our own. We really appreciated the tour guide too.

• Sightseeing

Tour from Athens to Belgrade: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

Wonderful tour of Balkans! Each day was well planned with interesting sites to explore: old historic centers/ museums/ castles/ churches/ mosques/ markets.

Premium Turkey in Depth

I was really annoyed that I was not given any instructions on how to find my transfer from airport to hotel.

Anatolian Civilizations | 10 Days

This is the full on history-packed introduction to Turkey and all previous occupying civilizations.

Best of Turkey- 10 Days

Great Tour company! Especially Mert our tour guide was the best.

10-Day Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour

Really enjoyed the tour. Informative and professional.

Balkan Experience – seven countries in two weeks - SMALL GROUP

The tour gives you a great start on all the 7 countries and if you want to explore them more you then have a starting point.

Great Bike Tour of the Baltics (fully guided from Vilnius to Tallinn 2024)

It was a really interesting and amazing experience especially for me since where I live there are no so many bicycle lanes.

• Train & Rail

Central Europe Group Rail Tour (18-35)

It has been incredible to see Europe with the new friends I made in my group, who were all so lovely.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

The Balkan Adventure Tour -12 days/11 nights from Skopje

We loved the hikes; only wished they could have been longer. We would have liked to spend more time in Sarajevo.

Turkish Breeze-10 Days

This tour was amazing and so well organized. My son and I had a great time, all transport and hotel accommodation was excellent.

Reviews of Small Group tours to Europe

To be honest, part of what made the trip fantastic was our group of 12- could not have had a better group to travel with- which is clearly luck, but a piece of our group being so cohesive was Nejca, our guide. She was perfect! Available but not pushy. Laid back, but willing to assert herself to make our experience the best. She made each person in the group feel special and appreciated. Thank you, Nejca! The itinerary was quite good as well. Although there were places I could have stayed for a day longer, I think it’s important to not stay too long and feel like time is wasted on a certain place on the tour. Transportation was efficient and Nejca did a great job getting us to our destinations easily and without rushing. Accommodations were very good- with the exception of Prague. Although our apartment was nice, it was clear that the residents of Prague feel that their space is being taken over by tourists- which is clearly true. I would have preferred to have stayed in a hotel in Prague-honestly, I would have paid more for it. Other than that, cannot day enough good things about the trip! Thank you!!

The Baltic Experience tour was a lot of fun! Our Tour Leader, Agata, was superb! The small tour size (we had six participants) meant we got to know each other well. The tour had a perfect mix of planned group activities and time to explore the sites on our own. The on-line tour description was accurate and extensive. Three cautions: Travel insurance is MANDATORY, somewhat expensive, and not included in the tour price. Many, like me, will commit to the tour not knowing this additional cost will be tacked on. Second, the tour sometimes involves significant walking (up to 30 minutes) from transportation facilities to hotels while carrying your own bags (two weeks of baggage), as well as walking tours that sometimes involve climbing as many as 800 steps. This is a tour for fairly young and fit participants. Finally, European hotels and home-stay facilities generally don't have air conditioning or screened windows, meaning sometimes in the summer you will have to choose between sleeping in hot, stuffy rooms or opening the windows for mosquitoes to enter. All that said, this was a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable experience and I would highly recommend it for fit, adventurous people with positive attitudes who can tolerate occasional less-than-luxurious accommodations.

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Europe Small Group Trips

Looking for a small group tour to Europe? We currently offer 956 small group tours in Europe having received 2157 customer reviews. Our tours have been handpicked to provide you with the finest selection of small group tours that Europe has to offer. If you are a solo traveler or a couple looking to meet other people, joining a small group tour is a great way to meet other like-minded travelers. Bon voyage.

953 Europe Small Group Tours with 2157 Reviews

• Starts Vienna, Austria
• Ends Budapest, Hungary

Best of Central Europe

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Art and architecture Sightseeing Tours , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Mountains 'data-more-tripid='3044'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Boat, Minibus & Taxi
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,075
• Special Deal (35%): - US$ 1,426
• Total Price from: US$ 2,649
• Jun 08 Only 8 seats left
• Jun 15 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Barcelona, Spain
• Ends Madrid, Spain

Spain & Portugal: Flamenco & Tapas

• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Party and nightlife & Food tours 'data-more-tripid='4978'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hostel
• Transport Train, Bus & Coach
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Jun 21 Only 1 seat left
• Aug 02 Only 3 seats left

• Starts Vilnius, Lithuania
• Ends Tallinn, Estonia

Baltic Capital Cities

• Activities Active and outdoor & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Bus
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,470
• Special Deal (11%): - US$ 160
• Total Price from: US$ 1,310
• Jun 08 Only 9 seats left
• Jun 22 Only 3 seats left

• Starts Baku, Azerbaijan
• Ends Tbilisi, Georgia

Caucasus Countries (12 days)

• Trip customizable
• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Cultural, religious and historic sites Sightseeing Tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & National parks 'data-more-tripid='18354'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Coach & Minibus
• Age Range 12-75 yrs
• Jul 13 Only 5 seats left

• Starts Lisbon, Portugal
• Ends Porto, Portugal

Highlights of Portugal

• Activities Local culture & Art and architecture Local culture , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Shopping and Markets 'data-more-tripid='10596'>+2 more
• Transport Train, Private Vehicle & Boat
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Jun 02 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 10 Only 1 seat left

• Starts Trebinje, Bosnia Herzegovina
• Ends Dubrovnik, Croatia

Walking in Bosnia & Herzegovina

• Activities Climbing & Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Hotel & Hut
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,623
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 268
• Total Price from: US$ 2,355
• Jun 06 Only 1 seat left
• Jul 18 Only 2 seats left

• Starts Arenas De Cabrales, Spain
• Ends Arenas De Cabrales, Spain

Walking the Picos de Europa

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Walking tours
• Age Range 16-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,792
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 267
• Total Price from: US$ 1,525
• Jul 06 Only 3 seats left
• Jul 27 Only 4 seats left

• Starts Prague, Czech Republic

Prague to Budapest Ride

• Activities Bicycle tours
• Transport Minibus
• Brochure Price: US$ 5,098
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 508
• Total Price from: US$ 4,590
• Jun 13 Only 6 seats left
• Sep 05 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Venice, Italy
• Ends Rome, Italy

Highlights of Italy

• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Countryside and village visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3759'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Hostel & Guest House
• Transport Train, Boat & Bus
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,965
• Special Deal (30%): - US$ 589
• Total Price from: US$ 1,376
• Jun 08 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 29 10+ seats left

• Starts Col De La Forclaz, Switzerland
• Ends Chamonix, France

Tour du Mont Blanc Week

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Walking tours Trekking and Hiking , Walking tours & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='7936'>+1 more
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,998
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 298
• Total Price from: US$ 2,700
• Jun 22 Only 5 seats left
• Jul 20 Only 6 seats left

• Starts Les Bossons, France
• Ends Randa, Switzerland

Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Adventure Trekking and Hiking , Adventure & Walking tours 'data-more-tripid='7932'>+1 more
• Accommodation Camping, Hut, Resort & Hotel
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle, Train, Minibus & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,498
• Special Deal (5%): - US$ 238
• Total Price from: US$ 4,260
• Aug 03 Only 1 seat left
• Sep 07 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Tallinn, Estonia
• Ends Vilnius, Lithuania

Discover the Baltics

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Trekking and Hiking
• Transport Ferry & Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,548
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 253
• Total Price from: US$ 2,295
• Jun 12 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 19 Only 1 seat left

• Starts Berlin, Germany

The Best of Eastern Europe

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing , Museum and gallery visits , Food tours , Beer and drinks tasting & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='4894'>+4 more
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle & Boat
• Jun 02 Only 2 seats left
• Jun 23 Only 1 seat left

• Starts Guadalest, Spain
• Ends Guadalest, Spain

Sierra de Aitana Trek

• Activities Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Lodge
• Sep 15 Only 8 seats left
• Sep 22 Only 4 seats left

Europe Small Group Tour Reviews

• Dr. Faisal Nahdi
• Naveenkumar Narayanan

Best Small Group Tour Destinations

• Balkans small group tours
• Baltic small group tours
• Eastern Europe small group tours
• Mediterranean small group tours
• Northern Europe small group tours
• Scandinavia small group tours
• Uk And Britain small group tours
• Italy small group tours
• France small group tours
• Spain small group tours
• Greece small group tours
• Turkey small group tours

Best Group Tour Destinations

• Balkans group tours
• Baltic group tours
• Eastern Europe group tours
• Mediterranean group tours
• Northern Europe group tours
• Scandinavia group tours
• Uk And Britain group tours
• Italy group tours
• France group tours
• Spain group tours
• Greece group tours
• Turkey group tours

Other Europe Tour Types

• Europe trips
• Europe budget tours
• Eco tours in Europe
• Europe guided tours
• Europe family tour packages
• Europe honeymoon packages
• Europe luxury tours
• Europe private tours
• Europe romantic holidays
• Europe self-guided tours
• Europe solo trips
• Europe tours for senior citizens
• Europe tours for young adults
• Europe group tours
• Europe last minute deals
• Europe travel deals

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• Switzerland
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United States

Tours to Europe & Turkey

Experience untamed nature on a European tour. Explore the pristine wilderness of Iceland or the fjords of Norway; walk through the rolling hills of Tuscany or among the picturesque villages and terraced hillsides of the Amalfi Coast.

Ways to explore Europe

Walking and trekking, boat journeys, rail journeys, food and drink, multi-activity, short breaks, winter activity, popular europe trip searches, cycling in europe, family trips in europe, rail journeys in europe, tours to the baltic states, discover our europe tours.

Whether you’re looking forward to your first  ever European tour or are making a return visit, planning a trip to Europe is exciting. Planning is the key word. After you’ve narrowed down which of Europe’s incredible countries or rich regions to visit, there are dozens of little details that can make your trip even more enjoyable — from finding the best places to stay down to knowing what to pack. That’s where Explore comes in. We’ve been leading small-group Europe tour packages for 40 years, and have been recognized as one of the world’s best adventure travel companies. To experience big European adventures, we focus on small groups. Our average Europe group tour size is just 12 — the perfect size for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Meanwhile, our expert local guides take the hassle out of your travel and bring unique richness and history to every tour. Single-destination trips go deep with detail, while multi-destination packages are able to offer a broad overview that’s still meaningful. With a range of ways to explore — from walking and hiking to bicycling trips — families, couples, and solo travelers alike will benefit from our signature small group European tours.

Our most popular trips for 2023

Rome, sorrento and the amalfi coast.

Spain and Portugal Iberian Explorer

Cycle the Dalmatian Coast

Highlights of the Greek Islands

Highlights of Spain, Portugal & Morocco

An adventure travel company you can trust

Unforgettable experiences.

From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

Expert tour leaders

Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Small groups

Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Responsible at heart

How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

Europe reviews

Average customer rating:

Independent service rating based on

Need some inspiration for your Europe tour?

10 top cultural tours in Europe

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9 top walking trips in Europe

5 of the best family vacations in Europe

See All destinations in Europe

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Canary Islands
• Czech Republic
• North Cyprus
• North Macedonia

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Slow Travel Tours

Small group tours in europe.

• Tour Schedule
• Tales, Trips & Tips Blog

• Smell lavender in full bloom in Provence or c ruise on a barge through France • Walk through charming landscapes in England and s avor delicious local cuisine and uplifting music • Meet welcoming and interesting locals and immerse yourself in European culture and history • Learn exciting new skills (photography, painting, cooking, and more) • Sleep in relaxing comfort and travel with like-minded companions and experienced guides in small groups

We will take you there, for your very own trip of a lifetime, you can choose from the following small group tours in europe:, culinary, wine & cooking tours | cultural immersion tours | photography tours | painting tours | history tours |  music tours | arts & crafts tours | barge tours | walking tours | spa & wellness tours, travel is easy, fun, and comfortable when you join our small group tours in europe, tour operators affiliated with slow travel tours, european experiences   •   music and markets tours   •  photography travel tours   •   edge charte r   •  poland culinary vacations   •   adventures in italy   •  french country adventures   •   cotswold walk s   •   village vacations in italy   •  bold spirit travel llc   •  knee deep into history   •   en plein air with virginia fergus.

Click the links above to contact individual tour operators or click here to email general questions to the Slow Travel Tours group.

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European Experiences

Small group tours in beautiful places.

• Kathy & Charley
• Meet our Team!
• Rent our Bonnieux Apartment
• European Travel articles
• Our Approach
• Itinerary – Alsace Experience
• Inside Bath
• Photos – Chianti
• Itinerary – The Chianti Experience
• Photos – Cornwall
• Itinerary – The Cornwall Experience
• Photos – The Cotswolds
• Itinerary – Cotswolds Experience
• Cotswolds Gardens Experience
• The Cotswolds Walking Week
• Return to the Cotswolds
• Photos – European Christmas Experience
• Photos – Luberon
• Itinerary – Luberon Experience
• Return to the Luberon
• The Luberon Christmas Experience
• The Luberon Walking Week
• Inside Lyon (France)
• Itinerary – Mediterranean Provence Experience
• Morocco (Northern Africa)
• Normandy (France)
• Itinerary – Paris Experience
• Itinerary – Inside Paris
• Photos – The Périgord
• Itinerary – Périgord Experience
• Photos – Puglia
• Itinerary – Puglia Experience
• Itinerary – Riviera Hillsides Experience
• European Experiences Trips for Women
• Virtual European Experience videos
• Prices and Our Booking Process
• Policies and Travel Logistics
• Payments to European Experiences
• Travelers Circle
• Traveler Reviews
• 2023 Photo Contest
• 2022 Photo Contest

Award-winning Small Group Tours in Europe’s Most Beautiful Places

If this type of vacation appeals to you, you’ll enjoy our European Experiences trips! We offer small group tours in the most beautiful areas of Europe, special places that have captured our hearts in 30 years of European travel.

Each year we offer several weeks of The Luberon Experience in Provence, France, based in the village of Bonnieux (shown below) . Our other trips vary each year, as we share other wonderful places in Europe that we love with travelers looking for an in-depth experience. We’re beginning our 2024 season and just announced our 2025 schedule.

Now booking for 2024 AND 2025!

We’re offering 24 trips in 2024 and 28 trips in 2025. Most of our trips are led by European Experiences owner and co-founder Kathy Wood or our partner in Provence, Jennifer Dugdale. Our new Inside Lyon trip will debut in 2025, led by our third team member, Drew Fedorka. We’re joined by an excellent team of co-leaders, including Kathy’s husband and co-founder Charley (now mostly retired). Learn about our team here .

Seven-night “Experience” trips

Kathy Wood leads seven-night Experience trips in the Luberon , the Chianti region of Tuscany, the Cotswolds , the Périgord (Dordogne) in southwest France, Normandy in northern France, Alsace in eastern France, and Puglia in southern Italy.

Jennifer Dugdale leads seven-night Experience trips in Paris , Mediterranean Provence , the Riviera Hillsides , and a new 2025 trip in northern Portugal .

Some Experience trips are now offered every other year.

Shorter “Inside” trips

We also offer four-night “Inside” trips based in cities, with a focus on special experiences and discoveries– not the typical tourist sites. These groups are smaller, about eight people. “Inside” trips are hosted by Jennifer Dugdale or Drew Fedorka and are intended to be combined with one of our week-long trips, but can be booked as a standalone trip. When an Inside trip is combined with an adjacent Experience, we’ll provide transportation between the two locations.

In France we offer Inside Paris and Inside Lyon , which can be combined with other trips in France. In England we offer Inside Bath before or after one our Cotswolds Experience weeks.

Longer “Experience” trips

We also offer several longer Experience trips, which include stays in several bases. Kathy and Charley Wood lead The Cornwall Experience (10 nights) and The European Christmas Experience (12 nights; four nights each in Salzburg, Munich, and Colmar).

Jennifer leads our new 11-night Morocco Experience trip, which was launched in March 2024. We’re especially excited about this new destination.

Trips Just for Women

We have a special commitment to help women travel. We’re delighted to offer six trips for groups of women only in 2024 and four women’s trips in 2025: our Women’s trips often include trips in the Luberon, the Riviera Hillsides, Mediterranean Provence, Paris (our four-night “Inside” experience), and the Cotswolds. Learn more about our special European Experiences for Women .

  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

Explore our website to learn more about our approach to travel and a typical week on one of our “Experience” trips. Join our mailing list to stay in touch with us through our newsletter (four or five times a year), including our annual schedule announcement. Facebook and Instagram are other great ways to learn more about us, follow our travels, and connect with other European Experiences travelers.

Traveler Reviews on Google and Facebook

Small Group Tours

EXPLORE EUROPE

2024 Dates & Destinations 

Our small group tours are planned at a slower travel pace, always focusing on one geographical area or region. This is because – we want to show more! Take you beyond the main tourist attractions, on a destination discovery journey through amazing local experiences and stays at upscale, locally owned, authentic hotels. Each tour is led by our passionate Vagabonda hosts, joined by licensed local guides to visit those amazing historical sites and learn about them from an expert and from their unique, local point of view. You can expect lots of local food and wine experiences, boat tours, cable cars and even hot air ballon rides! We explore islands, volcanoes, and amazing hidden gem spots – but always in a leisurely way! The maximum guest count on our tours is 12. We want to keep it small and intimate, as we explore in the comfort of a modern Mini Van or Mini Coach. Anyone can join! We always have a combination of solo travelers, couples, mothers and daughters/sons, sisters, friends… If you are a nice human being of any age - who likes to really enjoy life and wants to discover destinations deeply, in a fun way, and in good company, you will love our tours! We are excited to meet you!

- The Coscia-Mancuso Family, White Plains, NY

We cannot thank Vagabonda Travel enough for custom-designing our family trip to Italy.  Memories to last a lifetime. Every detail of our trip was perfectly curated and exceptional.  We would have never been able to plan this adventure on our own.  Communication with the staff is excellent and we felt secure knowing we had contact number while we were traveling. Cannot wait to book our next trip with you soon!

Trip of a lifetime.

Happy clients.

- Megan and Jerry, Los Angeles, California

We have never used a travel service before, and Vagabonda absolutely blew us away! From their hotel bookings, to the day-by-day itinerary, to hidden gems we definitely would have never found on our own, we can't thank their team enough! Highly recommend for anyone who wants an authentic experience in Europe!

BEST TRIP EVER! We'll remember this for the rest of our lives!

- Pete and Paula, Lindenhurst, New York

When my husband and I started planning our 30th Anniversary trip to Italy we had no idea where to even begin. That’s when I stumbled across Alida’s TikTok videos. I absolutely LOVED her content. To be honest, at first I was skeptical about planning a trip like this off of someone I saw in a TikTok video, but after meeting with her we knew we picked the right travel agency. Our 17-day trip was absolutely incredible. Alida and Vagabonda Travel made our lifetime dream of touring Italy one we will never forget!    

Happy 30th Anniversary to Us! A TRIP OF A LIFETIME!

Your Dream European Vacation Awaits

WISH YOU WERE HERE

Apr 13, 2024 - Apr 20, 2024

Wine and Bliss

Tuscany, Italy

Apr 20, 2024 - May 2, 2024

Rome & Beyond

Lazio, Italy

May 4, 2024 - May 20, 2024

Magical Slovenia

May 14, 2024 - May 28, 2024

14 nights

Flavors of Sicily

Sicily, Italy

Jun 1, 2024 - Jun 11, 2024

Naples & Amalfi

Campania, Italy

Sep 7, 2024 - Sep 16, 2024

9 nights

Puglia & Matera

Puglia, Italy

Sep 24, 2024 - Oct 9, 2024

15 Nights

Oct 12, 2024 - Oct 20, 2024

The Gems of Malta

Dec 1 - 10, 2024

German Xmas Magic

Berlin, Dresden, Nuremberg, Munich

Dec 11 - 19 2024

Magic Xmas Trio

Switzerland, Germany, France

COMING SOON !Subscribe below for updates and upcoming information.

Introduction to Italy

Venice, Florence & Rome

COMING SOON! Subscribe below for updates and upcoming information

Italy, Malta, Croatia, Switzerland

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• 2. [NL1] newfoundland & labrador
• 3. [CA3] the five stans
• 4. [MCSP] south pacific explorer
• 5. [MCUP] untouched pacific islands
• 6. [MCWA] a west african odyssey
• 7. [GY1] guyana, suriname & french guiana
• 8. [MCIO] indian ocean islands
• 9. [EG3] classic egypt
• 10. [GS8] the arab gulf states
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Small Group Europe Tours

85 Tour Options

Malta tour code: ml1, bulgaria tour code: bu1, romania tour code: ro1, portugal tour code: ps1, czech republic tour code: cz1, hungary tour code: hu1, classical greece tour code: gc2, greek island hopping tour code: gi4, baltic states & helsinki tour code: bs1, northern italy tour code: it7, southern spain tour code: es2, ireland tour code: ie10, classical greece tour code: gr16, poland: bridging east & west tour code: pl3, orkney, shetland & the faroe islands tour code: jhsf, iceland tour code: ic3, northern spain tour code: es1, cycladic classic - island hopping in greece tour code: gr14.

*Prices below are per person based on double occupancy and include airline taxes, surcharges and fees of $0, which are subject to change until final payment is made. All tour prices (excluding airline taxes, surcharges, and fees) are guaranteed.

Departure Selected

Special event, please note, guest 1 details, guest 2 details, trip details, additional options, guest information.

Whether your interests lie cityside or countryside, on or off the well-trod tourist path, you’re sure to find the right journey from our broad and diverse selection of small group tours to Europe. Well-paced, with stays of two, three, and sometimes even four nights in one place; expertly guided; and crafted with a pleasing mix of included touring and free time to explore on your own. It’s the best of all possible worlds.

Physical Activity Level

• Austria (2)
• Belgium (1)
• Bulgaria (1)
• Croatia (1)
• Czech Republic (1)
• Denmark (1)
• England (1)
• Germany (2)
• Great Britain (2)
• Hungary (1)
• Iceland (1)
• Ireland (1)
• Luxembourg (1)
• Montenegro (1)
• Netherlands (1)
• Northern Ireland (1)
• Portugal (3)
• Romania (1)
• Scotland (2)
• Slovakia (1)
• Slovenia (1)
• Switzerland (1)
• Türkiye (1)

Destinations

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Destination: Europe

European Tours for seniors

Odyssey Traveller offers comprehensive European tour packages as part of their small group tour global educational program. With expert tour guides, our small group tours cater to senior couples, mature individuals, and solo travellers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of Europe. These 2023 Europe trip packages are designed for groups of up to sixteen senior travellers, encompassing iconic destinations across Northern, Western, Central, Eastern, and Southern Europe, making it a quintessential journey with one of the leading European tour companies. Whether you prefer a European walking tour , coach tour, or an exploration via European train tours with an Eurail pass, Odyssey ensures a well-organized and enriching experience for solo travellers seeking a European vacation package.

Destinations

Albania 2 tours.

Armenia 1 tours

Austria 2 tours

Azerbaijan 1 tours

Belgium 4 tours

Bosnia and Herzegovina 1 tours

Bulgaria 2 tours

Corsica 1 tours

Croatia 4 tours

Cyprus 1 tours

Czech Republic 2 tours

Denmark 6 tours

Estonia 1 tours

Finland 6 tours

France 22 tours

Georgia 1 tours

Germany 13 tours

Greece 6 tours

Greenland 2 tours

Hungary 3 tours

Iceland 2 tours

Italy 22 tours

Latvia 1 tours

Lithuania 1 tours

Macedonia 2 tours

Malta 3 tours

Montenegro 1 tours

Norway 3 tours

Poland 4 tours

Portugal 6 tours

Romania 4 tours

Russia 6 tours

Sardinia 1 tours

Serbia 3 tours

Spain 11 tours

Sweden 5 tours

Switzerland 3 tours

The Netherlands 5 tours

Turkey 1 tours

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Baltics Small Group Escorted Tour: Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Stockholm

Visiting Denmark, Estonia

An escorted small group tour to the Baltic States of Europe that explores the key destinations of this region starting in Warsaw , then making its way through Poland , Estonia , Latvia , Lithuania , Finland , Stockholm and concluding in Copenhagen . Each day has scheduled itineraries supported by local guides who share knowledge and authentic experiences of the places visited. This is small group travelling to the Baltics for like minded people.

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Italy Puccini Festival small group Tour

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The Puccini festival is an escorted tour complete with local guides as part of our small group travel program, we will also visit Rome, Siena, Florence , Lucca, Viareggio, Genoa , Milan, Verona, and Venice . Join like minded people on this European tour in Italy . For solo travellers there is a nominal single supplement charged.

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Iceland cultural and wilderness small group tour

Visiting Iceland

Our escorted tour gives guests an insight into the history of this Icelandic nation. Travelling as a small group , our daily itineraries explore the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and others, national parks and majestic waterfalls as we learn about Iceland’s natural heritage and its Viking past from experienced local guides. There is a single supplement for solo travellers.

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Discover Portugal

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Discover Rome | Cultural and History Small Group Tour for Seniors

Rome is arguably the most fascinating city in Italy , the capital city, once the centre of a vast, ancient empire and still today a cultural focus within Europe . Explore the city in-depth as part of a small group program spending 15 days exploring, just Rome and Roman History .

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Small Group tours exploring the Treasures of Ireland

Visiting Ireland

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Visiting Turkey

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Tour of Northern Italy's Lakes and Alps

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Visiting Spain

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Florence: Living in a Renaissance City

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Visiting Corsica, Italy

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La Belle France small group escorted history tours for seniors

Travelling with like minded people on this small group we visit several culturally significant and picturesque regions of France , including Provence, Champagne, Burgundy, and Bordeaux regions, where we sample wine and learn more about the tradition of wine-making. We also visit the Loire Valley to see its many castles. Finally, we travel to Bayeux, from where we we visit Mont St Michel and spend time up on the Normandy landing beaches with local guides.

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La Belle France Small Group Short Tour

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Belgium, Netherlands, France, Germany Art Tour | Western Europe Art Tour

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Discovering the Life of Beethoven | Small Group Tour

Travellers on this small group tour will have the chance to gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of Beethoven’s life and music . Beginning in the city of Bonn , where Beethoven was born, we visit the city precincts and buildings where Beethoven’s unique artistic sensibility was formed. In Vienna , we explore many of the concert halls and churches where his work was performed. In each city visited we attend performances of his work.

Journey through Mongolia and Russia small group tour

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This escorted small group tour traverses this expanse, from Ulaanbaatar to St Petersburg ; from the Mongolian Steppes to Siberian taiga and tundra; over the Ural Mountains that divide Asia and Europe to the waterways of Golden Ring . Our program for couples and solo travellers uses two of the great rail journeys of the world; the Trans Mongolian Express and the Trans Siberian Express.

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Explore the rich tapestry of European culture and history through our small group European tours for seniors , designed to provide a relaxed and immersive travel experience. Embark on a journey through some of the most iconic European cities that were integral to the grand tours of the last century, including Amsterdam , Athens , Paris , Prague, Venice, Budapest , Dubrovnik , Istanbul , Vienna, Lisbon and, ancient Rome . Or delve into the charm of quaint villages along the Dalmatian and Amalfi coasts as part of our multi-country tour tailored for seniors.

Join Odyssey on meticulously crafted European tours, which cater to seniors seeking to explore walking trails like the Camino de Santiago and other pilgrim routes . Our itineraries focus on specific regions of Europe, offering small group tours to Spain , Portugal, the Czech Republic, and Southern Italy , allowing ample time to appreciate stunning landscapes such as Iceland and the Norwegian fjords , as well as iconic heritage sites like the Colosseum in Rome.

Experience the allure of Europe with visits to St Peter’s basilica , Prague, Budapest , and other enchanting destinations in Eastern Europe or within the Czech Republic. Our European package tours are meticulously curated to include UNESCO World Heritage sites and cater to the aspirations of travellers who seek a deeper understanding of the destinations they visit.

At Odyssey, we pride ourselves on being among the best European tour providers for seniors, placing a strong emphasis on listening to our travellers’ preferences to offer more than just scenic beauty. Our escorted tours deliver not only spectacular landscapes but also a rich and engaging itinerary that immerses you in the historical and cultural tapestry of Europe.

Travel through France, Britain, Spain, Portugal, Italy, the Mediterranean islands , Croatia , Central Europe, Greece , and Turkey on our 21-day fully escorted tours led by experienced tour directors and local guides. Explore ancient ruins of Rome and Greece , unravel the significance of landmarks like the Doge’s Palace in Venice, or trace the history of piracy along the Dalmatian coast and Dubrovnik , dating back to ancient Greek times.

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Odyssey’s small group tours through Europe, accommodating a maximum of 16 travellers, with an average group size of up to 12, comprising solo adventurers and couples alike. Immerse yourself in a culturally enriched trip that promises a deep exploration of each destination on our meticulously planned itineraries.

For relevant articles follow these links on Europe and Travel tips.

History of Santorini

History of Santorini: From the Minoans to the Greek Republic The history of the Greek islands of Santorini (or Thera) stretches back to the Neolithic Era more than 3,000 years ago. A place of great importance…

Balkan Histories: the Serbian Story

Serbia’s history is always fascinating, often complicated and rarely without controversy. To gain a better insight into this fascinating past, read on for a brief synopsis of Serbia’s story, from its origins in Slavic migration to the present day.

A Short History of Transylvania: Definitive guide for travellers

A Short History of Transylvania Once a province of the Roman Empire, Romania has three historic principalities–Transylvania, Moldavia, and Wallachia–which were briefly reunited in the 16th century before splintering again when Transylvania was recaptured by…

Hill of Crosses, Lithuania

Just outside the northern city of Siauliai lies a small hill in the middle of farmland that has been crowned with around 100,000 crosses in all different sizes. There are tiny crosses, massive wooden crosses and crosses handcrafted from metal. Known as the Hill of Crosses (Kryziu Kalnas), it is both a pilgrimage site and a testament to Lithuanian strength and defiance under Soviet rule. It has come to represent the peaceful endurance of Lithuanian Catholicism in the face of so many threats throughout history.

Southern Italy

Southern Italy: from Magna Graecia to Italian Unification When people think of Italy, Rome, Venice, and Florence often come to mind first. Yet, the country offers much more beyond its northern attractions. Venturing south from…

Gothic Germany

The term Gothic is often used to refer to a turning point and new era of European architecture that is generally seen as starting in the mid 12th century. Gothic architecture was in stunning contrast to Romanesque architecture which emphasised few windows, massive stonework and heavy walls. In comparison, the Gothic style featured stained glass windows, flying buttresses and more light-filled interiors that made use of cavernous spaces.

What are the top Europe travel experiences?

Odyssey has curated a list of exceptional Europe travel experiences that should not be missed. From the stunning natural wonders of Iceland with its majestic waterfalls like Seljalandfoss and Skogafoss, to the enchanting Lofoten Islands in Northern Norway where visitors are captivated by the ever-present midnight sun in summer and the mesmerizing northern lights in winter, Europe offers an array of unforgettable destinations.

In Provence , France, from mid-June to mid-August, the blooming lavender fields create a picturesque landscape that is truly a sight to behold. Meanwhile, on the magical island of Crete, Greece , rich in history as the epicenter of the Minoan culture and influenced by various empires throughout the ages, visitors are immersed in a tapestry of cultural heritage.

Traveling to the Cotswold region in England presents an opportunity to experience the idyllic countryside with its romantic thatched cottages, adorned with trailing roses, and enjoy traditional cream teas. The region also boasts the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bath, renowned for its Roman and Georgian architecture.

For a unique and lesser-known destination, Transylvania in Romania offers a blend of stunning landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Beyond the famous Dracula Castle, Bran Castle, this region captivates with its beauty and historical significance, away from the crowds typically found in more mainstream tourist areas.

Venturing to Yerevan , the capital city of Armenia, unveils breathtaking scenery, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality from the locals, making it a truly memorable destination. Budapest, the capital of Hungary, known for its charming castles, hilly landscape, and rich cultural heritage, is a must-visit city divided by the Danube River into Buda and Pest.

Lastly, the Outer Hebrides in Scotland offer pristine golden beaches with a sense of untouched serenity, where the azure blue waters evoke a Caribbean paradise amid the rugged Scottish landscape. Each of these European travel experiences promises a unique and unforgettable journey for every traveller seeking to explore the beauty and diversity of this remarkable continent.

What is different on a small group tour?

Based in Sydney, Australia, Odyssey Traveller caters to a diverse clientele hailing from the USA, Canada, UK, and Europe annually. Specializing in educational small group tours for seniors, our group sizes typically range from 6 to 12 people, with a cap of 16 travellers.

With a rich history dating back to 1983, we have been at the forefront of providing adventurous and educational programs. Our array of fully escorted cultural and heritage journeys not only expand horizons but also offer a mind-enriching experience. Tailored for active and inquisitive travellers, our tours nurture exploration in a close-knit group setting.

What's the accommodation like on a group tour?

In metropolitan areas, Odyssey selects centrally situated 3–4-star hotels, ensuring convenient access to public transportation. In more rural or smaller town settings, our preference is family-operated hotels or guesthouses. For extended-stay tours where guests remain in one place for the duration, we opt for serviced apartments, where feasible.

What are the best Europe travel destinations for history?

Europe boasts a diverse and intricate history, characterized by a tapestry of cultures and traditions that have evolved over millennia. The continent offers a wealth of historical riches waiting to be explored. Here are the top 10 destinations that Odyssey highly recommends experiencing during your lifetime:

• Acropolis of Athens, Greece
• The Berlin Wall, Berlin, Germany
• Pompeii, Naples, Italy
• Auschwitz, Poland
• Mont-Saint-Michel, Normandy, France
• Colosseum, Rome, Italy
• Stonehenge, Britain
• Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
• Louvre Museum, Paris

Why choose us for a small group adventure holiday?

Odyssey specializes in educational small group tours tailored for solo travel;ers or those journeying with a partner, exclusively catering to senior or mature travellers. Their group sizes range between 6 to 12 people, with a maximum of 18 travellers. These package holidays are designed for reasonably active seniors or mature travellers over 50, 60, or 70, whether traveling as a couple or opting for solo travel tours. Established in 1983, Odyssey has been offering these adventurous and educational programs not just within Australia but worldwide.

Initially conceived by a consortium of universities across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia, Odyssey was created to pioneer escorted educational tours for mature and senior travellers, guided by a tour director and guide to fascinating global destinations. Presently, Odyssey maintains ties with universities, ensuring tour directors uphold academic standards. The company collaborates with like-minded organizations and individuals dedicated to philanthropy, providing academic scholarships to students in Australia and New Zealand.

Odyssey presents a diverse selection of educational, cultural, and heritage journeys as meticulously organized tours that aim to enrich and expand horizons. With around 300 tours featured on their website, ranging from exploring Dinosaurs in Mongolia to embarking on a Walking Tour of the Camino de Santiago in Northern Spain or navigating the Australian outback, these experiences are crafted for active and curious travellers within a small group setting with a fixed itinerary. Group sizes typically vary between 6 to 12 individuals, comprising couples and solo travellers. The focus on small group travel with a knowledgeable tour leader creates a warm and personalized tour environment, reflecting the core philosophy of Odyssey Traveller in providing enriching holidays designed for couples and solo travellers over 50.

What are the best Europe travel destinations national parks and nature?

Europe is home to a diverse array of stunning landscapes, making national parks a must-visit for travellers seeking natural beauty. When crafting your itinerary for your next European adventure, consider incorporating visits to some of the continent’s most breathtaking national parks. Here are a few outstanding recommendations curated by Odyssey to enrich your journey:

• Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
• Jutunheiomen National Park, Norway
• Lake District National Park, England
• Saxon Switzerland National Park
• Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria

What is the best time of year to visit Europe?

For those seeking a sun-filled holiday, Europe shines its brightest during the summer months from June to September. This is the season when the sun reigns high, the beaches beckon with warmth, and the skies are clear and sunny.

Travelers who appreciate quieter surroundings may find the ideal time to explore Europe during the tranquil seasons of Spring (March to May) or Autumn (September to November).

For skiing enthusiasts or those captivated by the allure of Christmas markets, December and January offer a perfect window of opportunity to experience the magic of Europe’s snow-clad mountains and festive markets.

What ages are the group holidays suitable for?

Odyssey Traveller specializes in providing educational small group tours tailored for seniors, with the average participant age falling between 56 and 75 years, while still welcoming individuals of any age over 50. Based in Sydney, Australia, we cater to a diverse clientele hailing from the USA, Canada, UK, and Europe who join us on our enriching journeys each year.

Our group sizes range from 6 to 12 individuals, ensuring an intimate setting with no more than 16 travelers, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared exploration. Since 1983, Odyssey has been at the forefront of delivering these immersive and educational programs, offering a wide array of fully escorted cultural and heritage tours that aim to spark curiosity and cultural appreciation. Tailored for active and inquisitive travelers, our tours provide a platform for personal growth and discovery within a small group setting.

How will i stay well on a trip?

Ensuring that mature and senior travellers are travel-fit is crucial for them to fully enjoy a small group tour. This page provides valuable insights on maintaining a suitable diet, navigating solo travel, essential packing tips, as well as selecting appropriate footwear. By following these recommendations, you can efficiently plan and prepare for your upcoming vacation to Europe , United Kingdom , Australia or even New Zealand.

How does the member savings program save me money?

Read about Odyssey’s frequent traveller Alumni Program here.

Planning your first trekking holiday?

Odyssey’s active tours cater to mature travellers seeking an engaging holiday experience that aligns with their active lifestyle. These tours are thoughtfully designed to maintain a lively pace throughout, appealing to those who prefer to remain active during their travels. The activity level is customizable to suit the group’s fitness levels , ensuring that all participants are well taken care of. These tours are known for their small group sizes, usually capped at a maximum of 12 like-minded individuals.

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London & Paris

About this tour.

From cosmopolitan London to romantic Paris, cross the English Channel via train and take in the best of these iconic cities. Take a walking tour to Westminster to see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, and witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Personalize your stay in Paris by touring the “City of Lights” on a relaxed panoramic drive or on a walking tour of the hilltop Montmartre district. Enjoy ample free time to discover Paris independently. Glide down the Seine on a romantic river cruise. Revel in the allure of the city and take in its spectacular sights, history, architecture, art, and cuisine and finish with dinner at the Eiffel Tower.

Your Tour Includes

• 2 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Westminster Abbey
• Buckingham Palace
• Covent Garden
• Windsor Castle

Your Tour at a Glance

7 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Customize your tour.

$1,399.00 pp

Optional Excursions

Starting at $140.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Embark on a tour of Windsor Castle.

Cross the English Channel aboard the Eurostar Train.

Cultural Experiences:

Take advantage of leisure time in both London and Paris.

• Cruise along the Seine against a backdrop of Paris' glittering skyline.

Discover London on a walking tour to Westminster and see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

Culinary Inclusions:

Experience a quintessential English afternoon tea.

Enjoy London’s culinary renaissance at a dinner featuring contemporary British cuisine.

Savor an exclusive dinner at the Eiffel Tower, featuring delicious cuisine and breathtaking views.

• Eurostar Train
• Choice on Tour: Paris City Tour by Bus or Montmartre by Metro Walking Tour
• Arc de Triomphe
• Eiffel Tower Dinner
• Seine River Cruise

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Extend your stay with 3 nights in Amsterdam. Arrive via high-speed train before getting acquainted with the city during a locally guided food walking tour. Enjoy ample time at leisure, giving you the opportunity to peruse the city’s many iconic museums or take a cruise along the canals. This 3-night stay is ideal for taking in the art, architecture, culture, and picturesque canals of Amsterdam. Your other option is to book a post night stay? Hosted You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager part of the time, for some guided excursions. The rest of the time, you’re at leisure to explore the destination your own way.

• Paris - Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Board a high-speed train and take off for Amsterdam, the thriving 800-year-old capital of Holland. After some time to settle in, meet up with a local guide to get acquainted with the Jordaan District of Amsterdam. Explore this charming neighborhood and learn of its rich multicultural roots during a walking food tour where you’ll taste traditional Dutch fare as you walk along the canals and historic homes between stops.
• Stroll through the city with a local expert. Get acquainted with the cozy lanes and quintessential Dutch houses as you wander along the canals that lead to Amsterdam’s museum district. Explore the Rijksmuseum with your local guide and experience works from the great Dutch masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh. Enjoy an afternoon on your own to do as you please. Perhaps you’ll choose to explore the Anne Frank House,* a museum dedicated to the memory of the young diarist who documented her time in hiding during WWII.
• The day is yours. Explore the narrow canals, stone bridges, and bike-brimmed roads at your leisure. Perhaps you’ll choose to see the city from a different perspective and embark on a canal cruise or spend some time relaxing at a café. Maybe take the train to The Hague to see the renowned Girl with a Pearl Earring in the Mauritshuis Museum.
• Bid Amsterdam farewell as your extension comes to a close today.

Hotel-Riu Plaza London Victoria

Hotel-Le Meridien Etoile Hotel

Enjoy an interesting visit to the incomparable Palace of Versailles. The palace and gardens of Versailles reflect the extravagant tastes of King Louis XIV, the "Sun King." On this excursion, travel by coach to Versailles where your local guide will recount the history of the palace and lead you through the various rooms of the State Apartments. Of particular interest are the Queen's bedchamber and the famous Hall of Mirrors. You then have leisure time to explore the incredible gardens, some of the most famous in the world, which took over 40 years to complete.

Join us for a spectacular evening in one of Paris’s most beloved institutions, the famous Paradis Latin. Situated in a building associated with Napoleon and rebuilt by Gustav Eiffel himself, the Paradis has been running here since 1889. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner with wine, then bring on the champagne and let the show commence!

Explore more of the culinary scene of the “City of Light” with a gourmet dinner before spinning the wheels of time from the backseat of a retro car, cruising through the chic boulevards and peering up at the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe from a vintage Citroën 2CV. An icon of the French motor industry, the idiosyncratic 2CV (short for Deux Chevaux, i.e. two horsepower) was in production from 1948 until 1990, and sets hearts a-flutter with its instantly recognizable design. Your personal driver will drive you down the Champs Elysees, past iconic bridges and grand plazas, and by sites such as the Opéra Garnier and the Ile de la Cité.

Cruise along the Seine against a backdrop of Paris' glittering skyline.

Accommodations

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Pre Night: Riu Plaza London Victoria From $150 per night

Riu Plaza London Victoria

Crowne plaza paris-republique, stay longer.

Post Night: Le Meridien Etoile From $200 per night

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Europe Tours & Holidays

Enduring, eclectic, endlessly appealing – Europe is easy to explore and impossible to forget. 

Trying to decide between hiking through rugged wilderness, touring 13th-century churches and sipping wine in the sun? In Europe you can do it all and do it well. The walkable ruins of Italy will transport you back to a time when the Romans ruled an empire. Sweden’s indulgent national dishes will have your tastebuds begging for more. The natural beauty found in Scotland is guaranteed to ignite the mythical side of your imagination. And that’s only the beginning. From the breezy Mediterranean to the chilly Baltics, our European tours have something for every traveller. 

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Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa to travel to Europe?

Whether or not you need a visa to travel to European countries largely depends on the nationality on your passport and whether the country you're travelling to is part of the Schengen Agreement.

This agreement sees 26 European countries offer visa-free travel to nationals from 60 other countries including Australia, the United States, Canada, Japan, and the United Kingdom. 

To determine whether the country you're travelling to requires a visa, head to the   Schengen Visa's information website.  

What is the internet access like in Europe?

You can easily access the internet in most countries in Europe, generally in capital cities and other major towns. Internet access may be limited in regional locations such as national parks or remote villages in some countries. 

Can I use my mobile phone in Europe?

You shouldn't have a problem using your mobile phone while travelling throughout Europe, however, your international data roaming will need to be activated in order to connect to the internet or send messages (unless you connect to the local wi-fi). 

What are the toilets like in Europe?

Modern, flushable toilets are the standard in the majority of European countries. 

Can I drink the water in Europe?

Tap water in most European countries is considered safe to drink unless it is otherwise marked. 

When should I book a tour in Europe?

There is no 'best time' to travel around Europe as most countries offer plenty to do in every season of the year.

T he most popular time to travel to countries like Greece, Italy, and Croatia is during the summer months (June, July, and August) so you can make the most of each country's respective beaches and warm weather.

C ountries such as Iceland, Norway, and Sweden are known for their snowy landscapes and northern lights sightings during Winter (December, January, and February).

How much does a Europe tour cost?

A tour in Europe can vary depending on the countries you want to visit, the style of tour, and how long you want to go for but you can expect to pay anywhere between USD$1,000 to USD$5,000, with most tours around USD$2,500. 

Is tipping common in Europe?

Tipping isn't as prevalent in Europe as it is in some other countries and definitely isn't expected, but if you like the quality of service you've been given at hotels, restaurants etc then a tip is always appreciated. 

Are credit cards widely accepted in Europe?

While credit cards are accepted in all European countries (especially in capital cities and other larger cities), smaller cafes or local run businesses may not have EFTPOS machines so it's always best to carry around a little cash to cover these expenses. 

What is ATM access like in Europe?

You should have no problem finding ATMs in most European cities. 

What currency will I need on a Europe tour?

The official currency of Europe is the Euro (€), however, only 19 of the 28 countries in the European Union use this. Countries that still use their own currency include Norway, Switzerland, Belarus, Croatia, Denmark, and Sweden. 

Is Europe safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Europe is considered a reasonably safe continent for LGBTQIA+ travellers with plenty of countries openly accepting, welcoming, and embracing the community.

This is evident in large capital cities such as Paris, Berlin, Madrid, and Vienna.

Some countries still hold traditional religious beliefs such as Belarus and Poland so a degree of caution should be taken when travelling around cities and remote regions in those countries.

Will I need a socket adapter for Europe?

If you plan on travelling to multiple countries throughout Europe then purchasing an all-in-one, worldwide adapter is the safest way to go.

I f you don't want to do that, your safest bet is to buy an adapter that uses C or E/F-type plugs as most European countries recognise this. 

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: Putin claims West provoked Kharkiv offensive

The Russian president has said the West provoked the Kremlin's latest offensive into Ukraine's Kharkiv region by ignoring warnings not to allow Kyiv to strike the Russian region of Belgorod.

Tuesday 28 May 2024 18:50, UK

• Russian forces capture two villages in eastern Ukraine
• Putin claims West provoked Kharkiv offensive
• NATO comments open door to allowing Ukraine to strike Russia with Western weapons
• Your questions answered:  When will F-16s arrive in Ukraine?
• The big picture : What you need to know about the war right now
• Eyewitness: Russia producing shells three times faster than Ukraine's allies
• Live reporting by Samuel Osborne

We're pausing our coverage of the Ukraine war for the moment.

Scroll through the blog below to catch up on today's developments.

By Sean Bell , military analyst

President Putin knows that his critical vulnerability is Western military capability, and that should the West become directly involved in the defence of Ukraine, Russia's objectives would no longer be achievable.

As a result, Russia continues to augment its military strategy in Ukraine with targeted rhetoric and information operations designed to deter Western governments from increasing military support to Ukraine.

As Mr Putin's concerns have mounted, the rhetoric has become more inflammatory, leading to more regular rattling of the nuclear sabre.  

You can listen more about this on  Bell's RedMatrix podcast

However, Mr Putin is also well aware that a nuclear war would have no winners; the concept has been described as MAD - Mutually Assured Destruction. 

If the strategy succeeds and the West is deterred from protecting a nation from Russian aggression, where does that leave Russia's wider "empire" ambitions - and China's too?

This past week, Russia chose to remind the world that it had developed the most powerful and longest-range intercontinental ballistic missile - called SATAN II - which can deliver nuclear weapons to almost any point on the Earth's surface. 

Russia routinely uses the threat of escalation as a weapon of war.  No civilised country wants to go to war, and reminding nations of the potential consequences of an escalation is a powerful deterrent.

However, history shows that there are times when people need to make choices if they are to preserve their way of life and the values they cherish. 

A utopian world where all nations live in peace might have enduring appeal, but the harsh reality is that there are always those that will seek to capitalise, to build empires, and provoke major conflicts. 

The omnipresent challenge is when to confront such tyrants, and history suggests the earlier, the better.

Mr Putin knows that his battle-worn forces would be no match for Western air and land power, so is using all the tools at his disposal to deter greater Western engagement. And, that strategy appears to be working. 

However, if the West decides not to call Mr Putin's bluff and accepts Russia's aggressive expansion, where next? 

Russia should stand its ground and keep on with what it calls its "special military operation" in Ukraine in response to the West's military fervour, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said.

Mr Peskov said at the same time the West had no unanimity of opinion regarding the Ukrainian army's strikes on Russian territory using Western weapons.

NATO's Parliamentary Assembly has called for member states to support Ukraine's "international right" to defend itself by lifting "some restrictions" on Kyiv's use of Western weapons in Russia (see 10.57am post).

Vladimir Putin has said the West provoked the Kremlin's latest offensive into Ukraine's Kharkiv region by ignoring warnings not to allow Kyiv to strike the Russian region of Belgorod.

Giving a speech earlier today, the Russian president said strikes on Belgorod this month were carried out using weapons provided by the West and were only possible with the help of specialists from Western countries. 

"[The] West should understand what it is playing with," Mr Putin warned, adding that any escalation could lead to "serious consequences". 

Kharkiv remains a major focus after Russia opened a new front on the northeastern border.

Over the weekend, Moscow's defence ministry claimed it had taken the settlement of Ivanivka, but victory in the Kharkiv region has been the subject of conflicting reports, with Volodymyr Zelenskyy saying Ukraine had secured "combat control".

Ukraine 'rejected' peace talks

When questioned about potential peace talks with Ukraine, Mr Putin blamed Kyiv for refusing negotiations.

He said Russia had never abandoned peace talks and was ready to return to them, but claimed Ukraine was instead focusing on its fortunes on the battlefield.

"That's Ukraine that rejected the peace talks," Mr Putin said. 

"They do not want to agree, but are trying to change the situation on the battlefield. In that case, there will be more Ukrainian losses."

These pictures show a Ukrainian drone squad attaching a grenade to a drone before flying it over the positions of Russian troops.

The 95th Separate Air Assault Brigade is on the frontline in the eastern Donbas region.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for Joe Biden to attend a peace summit organised by Kyiv in Switzerland next month.

The Ukrainian president said if the US president missed the event it would be like a standing ovation for Vladimir Putin.

Ukraine hopes to host as many countries as possible in an effort to unite opinion on how to halt the war and heap pressure on Russia, which has seized almost a fifth of Ukraine's territory.

"I know that the US supports the summit but we don't know at what level," Mr Zelenskyy said in Brussels at a joint press conference with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo.

"[The] peace summit needs President Biden and so do the other leaders who look at the reaction of the United States.

"His absence would be an applause to Putin, a personal standing applause to Putin." 

On Sunday Mr Zelenskyy urged both Mr Biden and his Chinese counterpart and Mr Putin's close ally, Xi Jinping, to attend the summit .

Russia has said it sees no point in the conference.

These pictures show Russian volunteers posing before handing over equipment to an informal military unit consisting of Russians fighting in the armed forces of Ukraine in Sofia, Bulgaria.

The funds are from voluntary donations from Russian citizens and ethnic Russians living in Bulgaria.

More than 1,400 Russian troops have been injured since last Friday, according to Ukraine's Ministry of Defence.

Moscow also lost 21 tanks and 40 armoured combat vehicles, it said.

Although Western estimates of Russian losses differ from Ukraine's, it is nonetheless a sign of the staggering human cost of the war for Moscow.

Russia does not routinely publish numbers of casualties or losses of equipment. Ukraine provides some figures - but infrequently.

In February, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that 31,000 of his troops had been killed in two years of war.

Poland should not rule out sending troops to Ukraine, foreign minister Radoslaw Sikorski said in comments published today.

It comes as Kyiv struggles to repel Russian advances in eastern Ukraine.

Mr Sikorski did not specify what role Polish troops would play in the conflict.

Ukraine's NATO allies have vowed to supply the beleaguered nation with weapons and money for as long as it takes to fend off Russia's invasion, but they have generally ruled out the possibility of sending soldiers.

Asked in an interview whether Poland was ready to send troops to Ukraine, Mr Sikorski said: "We shouldn't rule it out. We should leave Putin guessing as to our intentions".

The interview was published in Poland's Gazeta Wyborcza, Italy's La Repubblica and Spain's El Pais.

Previously, French President Emmanuel Macron suggested Western troops could help with the training of Ukrainians in Ukraine.

It comes after Ukraine's top military commander said he had signed paperwork allowing French military instructors to visit Ukrainian training centres soon.

As Russia opens a new front on Ukraine's northeastern border, the war has entered an important phase.

Readers have been sending in their questions to our senior correspondents and military experts for their take on the changing battlefield environment.

Today, Tali-IhanTala asks: 

When will F-16s arrive? I truly believe they will mark a turning point in the War.

Military analyst Sean Bell  had this to say:

Although there is growing expectation that the initial tranche of F-16 fighter jets being donated to Ukraine could arrive as soon as early July, it is not clear whether the other ingredients of this powerful air power capability will be in place by that time.

Providing a credible and effective Ukrainian combat air capability requires suitably trained and experienced pilots, ground crew, weapons, defensive aids and radar. All these components need to be in place before the Ukrainian Air Force will be ready to go into battle with the Russian military.  

Once the F-16s are place, the challenge facing Ukraine will be when and where to use these valuable resources - and how to avoid them being destroyed before they can contribute to the Ukrainian defensive effort.

They will provide Ukraine with an invaluable - albeit scarce - resource. The F-16s could be used to support the frontline, but they will be very vulnerable in that dynamic and hostile air environment. 

They could also be used to conduct strikes against key military targets inside Russian territory, which would certainly force a change in Moscow's tactics. Or, if Ukraine wanted to threaten Crimea, the F-16s could be used in a coordinated attack in support of a wider campaign.

Regardless, with Russia on the front foot in the Donbas, Ukraine needs all the help it can to reverse Russian momentum on the battlefield.

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